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Enayati M, Liu W, Madry H, Neisiany RE, Cucchiarini M. Functionalized hydrogels as smart gene delivery systems to treat musculoskeletal disorders. Adv Colloid Interface Sci 2024; 331:103232. [PMID: 38889626 DOI: 10.1016/j.cis.2024.103232] [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: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
Despite critical advances in regenerative medicine, the generation of definitive, reliable treatments for musculoskeletal diseases remains challenging. Gene therapy based on the delivery of therapeutic genetic sequences has strong value to offer effective, durable options to decisively manage such disorders. Furthermore, scaffold-mediated gene therapy provides powerful alternatives to overcome hurdles associated with classical gene therapy, allowing for the spatiotemporal delivery of candidate genes to sites of injury. Among the many scaffolds for musculoskeletal research, hydrogels raised increasing attention in addition to other potent systems (solid, hybrid scaffolds) due to their versatility and competence as drug and cell carriers in tissue engineering and wound dressing. Attractive functionalities of hydrogels for musculoskeletal therapy include their injectability, stimuli-responsiveness, self-healing, and nanocomposition that may further allow to upgrade of them as "intelligently" efficient and mechanically strong platforms, rather than as just inert vehicles. Such functionalized hydrogels may also be tuned to successfully transfer therapeutic genes in a minimally invasive manner in order to protect their cargos and allow for their long-term effects. In light of such features, this review focuses on functionalized hydrogels and demonstrates their competence for the treatment of musculoskeletal disorders using gene therapy procedures, from gene therapy principles to hydrogel functionalization methods and applications of hydrogel-mediated gene therapy for musculoskeletal disorders, while remaining challenges are being discussed in the perspective of translation in patients. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Despite advances in regenerative medicine, the generation of definitive, reliable treatments for musculoskeletal diseases remains challenging. Gene therapy has strong value in offering effective, durable options to decisively manage such disorders. Scaffold-mediated gene therapy provides powerful alternatives to overcome hurdles associated with classical gene therapy. Among many scaffolds for musculoskeletal research, hydrogels raised increasing attention. Functionalities including injectability, stimuli-responsiveness, and self-healing, tune them as "intelligently" efficient and mechanically strong platforms, rather than as just inert vehicles. This review introduces functionalized hydrogels for musculoskeletal disorder treatment using gene therapy procedures, from gene therapy principles to functionalized hydrogels and applications of hydrogel-mediated gene therapy for musculoskeletal disorders, while remaining challenges are discussed from the perspective of translation in patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammadsaeid Enayati
- Center of Experimental Orthopaedics, Saarland University Medical Center, Kirrbergerstr. Bldg 37, 66421 Homburg, Saar, Germany
| | - Wei Liu
- Center of Experimental Orthopaedics, Saarland University Medical Center, Kirrbergerstr. Bldg 37, 66421 Homburg, Saar, Germany
| | - Henning Madry
- Center of Experimental Orthopaedics, Saarland University Medical Center, Kirrbergerstr. Bldg 37, 66421 Homburg, Saar, Germany
| | - Rasoul Esmaeely Neisiany
- Biotechnology Centre, Silesian University of Technology, Krzywoustego 8, 44-100 Gliwice, Poland; Department of Polymer Engineering, Hakim Sabzevari University, Sabzevar 9617976487, Iran
| | - Magali Cucchiarini
- Center of Experimental Orthopaedics, Saarland University Medical Center, Kirrbergerstr. Bldg 37, 66421 Homburg, Saar, Germany.
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Mora J, Forman D, Hu J, Ijantkar A, Gokemeijer J, Kolaja KL, Picarillo C, Jawa V, Yue H, Lamy J, Denies S, Schockaert J, Ackaert C. Immunogenicity Risk Assessment of Process-Related Impurities in An Engineered T Cell Receptor Cellular Product. J Pharm Sci 2024:S0022-3549(24)00188-6. [PMID: 38768755 DOI: 10.1016/j.xphs.2024.05.018] [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: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Cell therapies such as genetically modified T cells have emerged as a promising and viable treatment for hematologic cancers and are being aggressively pursued for a wide range of diseases and conditions that were previously difficult to treat or had no cure. The process development requires genetic modifications to T cells to express a receptor (engineered T cell receptor (eTCR)) of specific binding qualities to the desired target. Protein reagents utilized during the cell therapy manufacturing process, to facilitate these genetic modifications, are often present as process-related impurities at residual levels in the final drug product and can represent a potential immunogenicity risk upon infusion. This manuscript presents a framework for the qualification of an assay for assessing the immunogenicity risk of AA6 and Cas9 residuals. The same framework applies for other residuals; however, AAV6 and Cas9 were selected as they were residuals from the manufacturing of an engineered T cell receptor cellular product in development. The manuscript: 1) elucidates theoretical risks, 2) summarizes analytical data collected during process development, 3) describes the qualification of an in vitro human PBMC cytokine release assay to assess immunogenicity risk from cellular product associated process residuals; 4) identifies a multiplexed inflammatory innate and adaptive cytokine panel with pre-defined criteria using relevant positive controls; and 5) discusses qualification challenges and potential solutions for establishing meaningful thresholds. The assessment is not only relevant to establishing safe exposure levels of these residuals but also in guiding risk assessment and CMC strategy during the conduct of clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Mora
- Clinical Pharmacology Pharmacometrics and Bioanalysis, Bristol Myers Squibb, Princeton, NJ, United States.
| | - Daron Forman
- Discovery Biotherapeutics, Bristol Myers Squibb, Cambridge MA, United States
| | - Jennifer Hu
- Current: Technical Operations, Analytical Development, Gentibio, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Akshata Ijantkar
- Cell Therapy Product and Analytical Development, Bristol Myers Squibb, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Jochem Gokemeijer
- Discovery Biotherapeutics, Bristol Myers Squibb, Cambridge MA, United States
| | - Kyle L Kolaja
- Nonclincial Safety, Bristol Meyers Squibb, Summit NJ, United States
| | - Caryn Picarillo
- Discovery Biotherapeutics, Bristol Myers Squibb, Cambridge MA, United States
| | - Vibha Jawa
- Clinical Pharmacology Pharmacometrics and Bioanalysis, Bristol Myers Squibb, Princeton, NJ, United States
| | - Hai Yue
- Cell Therapy Product and Analytical Development, Bristol Myers Squibb, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Juliette Lamy
- ImmunXperts, a Q2 Solutions Company, Gosselies, Belgium
| | - Sofie Denies
- ImmunXperts, a Q2 Solutions Company, Gosselies, Belgium
| | | | - Chloé Ackaert
- ImmunXperts, a Q2 Solutions Company, Gosselies, Belgium
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Wang JH, Gessler DJ, Zhan W, Gallagher TL, Gao G. Adeno-associated virus as a delivery vector for gene therapy of human diseases. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:78. [PMID: 38565561 PMCID: PMC10987683 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01780-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV) has emerged as a pivotal delivery tool in clinical gene therapy owing to its minimal pathogenicity and ability to establish long-term gene expression in different tissues. Recombinant AAV (rAAV) has been engineered for enhanced specificity and developed as a tool for treating various diseases. However, as rAAV is being more widely used as a therapy, the increased demand has created challenges for the existing manufacturing methods. Seven rAAV-based gene therapy products have received regulatory approval, but there continue to be concerns about safely using high-dose viral therapies in humans, including immune responses and adverse effects such as genotoxicity, hepatotoxicity, thrombotic microangiopathy, and neurotoxicity. In this review, we explore AAV biology with an emphasis on current vector engineering strategies and manufacturing technologies. We discuss how rAAVs are being employed in ongoing clinical trials for ocular, neurological, metabolic, hematological, neuromuscular, and cardiovascular diseases as well as cancers. We outline immune responses triggered by rAAV, address associated side effects, and discuss strategies to mitigate these reactions. We hope that discussing recent advancements and current challenges in the field will be a helpful guide for researchers and clinicians navigating the ever-evolving landscape of rAAV-based gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiang-Hui Wang
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Physiological Systems, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, East Melbourne, VIC, 3002, Australia
- Ophthalmology, Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, East Melbourne, VIC, 3002, Australia
| | - Dominic J Gessler
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Physiological Systems, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Wei Zhan
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Physiological Systems, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
- Li Weibo Institute for Rare Diseases Research, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Thomas L Gallagher
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Guangping Gao
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA.
- Department of Microbiology and Physiological Systems, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA.
- Li Weibo Institute for Rare Diseases Research, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA.
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Muczynski V, Nathwani AC. AAV mediated gene therapy for haemophilia B: From the early attempts to modern trials. Thromb Res 2024; 236:242-249. [PMID: 38383218 DOI: 10.1016/j.thromres.2020.12.033] [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: 05/13/2020] [Revised: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Early gene therapy clinical trials for the treatment of Haemophilia B have been instrumental to our global understanding of gene therapy and have significantly contributed to the rapid expansion of the field. The use of adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) as vectors for gene transfer has successfully led to therapeutic expression of coagulation factor IX (FIX) in severe haemophilia B patients. Expression of FIX has remained stable following a single administration of vector for up to 8 years at levels that are clinically relevant to reduce the incidence of spontaneous bleeds and have permitted a significant change in the disease management with reduction or elimination of the need for coagulation factor concentrates. These trials have also shed light on several concerns around AAV-mediated gene transfer such as the high prevalence of pre-existing immunity against the vector capsid as well as the elevation of liver transaminases that is associated with a loss of FIX transgene expression in some patients. However, this field is advancing very rapidly with the development of increasingly more efficient strategies to overcome some of these obstacles and importantly raise the possibility of a functional cure, which has been long sought after. This review overviews the evolution of gene therapy for haemophilia B over the last two decades.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Muczynski
- Department of Haematology, University College London - Cancer Institute, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Amit C Nathwani
- Department of Haematology, University College London - Cancer Institute, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland; Katharine Dormandy Haemophilia and Thrombosis Unit, Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland; Freeline Therapeutics Ltd., United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
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5
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Dhungel BP, Winburn I, Pereira CDF, Huang K, Chhabra A, Rasko JEJ. Understanding AAV vector immunogenicity: from particle to patient. Theranostics 2024; 14:1260-1288. [PMID: 38323309 PMCID: PMC10845199 DOI: 10.7150/thno.89380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Gene therapy holds promise for patients with inherited monogenic disorders, cancer, and rare genetic diseases. Naturally occurring adeno-associated virus (AAV) offers a well-suited vehicle for clinical gene transfer due to its lack of significant clinical pathogenicity and amenability to be engineered to deliver therapeutic transgenes in a variety of cell types for long-term sustained expression. AAV has been bioengineered to produce recombinant AAV (rAAV) vectors for many gene therapies that are approved or in late-stage development. However, ongoing challenges hamper wider use of rAAV vector-mediated therapies. These include immunity against rAAV vectors, limited transgene packaging capacity, sub-optimal tissue transduction, potential risks of insertional mutagenesis and vector shedding. This review focuses on aspects of immunity against rAAV, mediated by anti-AAV neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) arising after natural exposure to AAVs or after rAAV vector administration. We provide an in-depth analysis of factors determining AAV seroprevalence and examine clinical approaches to managing anti-AAV NAbs pre- and post-vector administration. Methodologies used to quantify anti-AAV NAb levels and strategies to overcome pre-existing AAV immunity are also discussed. The broad adoption of rAAV vector-mediated gene therapies will require wider clinical appreciation of their current limitations and further research to mitigate their impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bijay P. Dhungel
- Gene and Stem Cell Therapy Program Centenary Institute, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | | | | | | | - John E. J. Rasko
- Gene and Stem Cell Therapy Program Centenary Institute, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Cell and Molecular Therapies, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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6
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Hadi M, Qutaiba B Allela O, Jabari M, Jasoor AM, Naderloo O, Yasamineh S, Gholizadeh O, Kalantari L. Recent advances in various adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) as gene therapy agents in hepatocellular carcinoma. Virol J 2024; 21:17. [PMID: 38216938 PMCID: PMC10785434 DOI: 10.1186/s12985-024-02286-1] [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: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Primary liver cancer, which is scientifically referred to as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), is a significant concern in the field of global health. It has been demonstrated that conventional chemotherapy, chemo-hormonal therapy, and conformal radiotherapy are ineffective against HCC. New therapeutic approaches are thus urgently required. Identifying single or multiple mutations in genes associated with invasion, metastasis, apoptosis, and growth regulation has resulted in a more comprehensive comprehension of the molecular genetic underpinnings of malignant transformation, tumor advancement, and host interaction. This enhanced comprehension has notably propelled the development of novel therapeutic agents. Therefore, gene therapy (GT) holds great promise for addressing the urgent need for innovative treatments in HCC. However, the complexity of HCC demands precise and effective therapeutic approaches. The adeno-associated virus (AAV) distinctive life cycle and ability to persistently infect dividing and nondividing cells have rendered it an alluring vector. Another appealing characteristic of the wild-type virus is its evident absence of pathogenicity. As a result, AAV, a vector that lacks an envelope and can be modified to transport DNA to specific cells, has garnered considerable interest in the scientific community, particularly in experimental therapeutic strategies that are still in the clinical stage. AAV vectors emerge as promising tools for HCC therapy due to their non-immunogenic nature, efficient cell entry, and prolonged gene expression. While AAV-mediated GT demonstrates promise across diverse diseases, the current absence of ongoing clinical trials targeting HCC underscores untapped potential in this context. Furthermore, gene transfer through hepatic AAV vectors is frequently facilitated by GT research, which has been propelled by several congenital anomalies affecting the liver. Notwithstanding the enthusiasm associated with this notion, recent discoveries that expose the integration of the AAV vector genome at double-strand breaks give rise to apprehensions regarding their enduring safety and effectiveness. This review explores the potential of AAV vectors as versatile tools for targeted GT in HCC. In summation, we encapsulate the multifaceted exploration of AAV vectors in HCC GT, underlining their transformative potential within the landscape of oncology and human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meead Hadi
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Basic Science, Central Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Mansoureh Jabari
- Medical Campus, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Asna Mahyazadeh Jasoor
- Department of Microbiology, School of Biology, College of Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Omid Naderloo
- Department of Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Islamic Azad University of Gorgan Breanch, Gorgan, Iran
| | | | | | - Leila Kalantari
- School of Medicine, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran.
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Pan H, Liu YF, Luo Y, Chen L, Shen B, Song S, Liu M, Wang Z, Wu W, Li M, Zhang Y. Goats with low levels of AAV antibody may serve as candidates for large animal gene therapy. Exp Eye Res 2023; 233:109514. [PMID: 37207869 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2023.109514] [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: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
AAV vector-mediated gene therapy has been proposed as a feasible strategy for several eye diseases. However, AAV antibodies in the serum prior to treatment hinder the transduction efficiency and thus the therapeutic effect. Therefore, it is necessary to evaluate AAV antibodies in the serum before gene therapy. As large animals, goats are more closely related to humans than rodents and more economically available than nonhuman primates. Here, we first evaluated the AAV2 antibody serum level in rhesus monkeys before AAV injection. Then, we optimized a cell-based neutralizing antibody assay for detecting AAV antibodies in the serum of Saanen goats and evaluated the consistency of the cell-based neutralizing antibody assay and ELISA for goat serum antibody evaluation. The cell-based neutralizing antibody assay showed that the percentage of macaques with low antibody levels was 42.86%; however, there were no macaques with low antibody levels when the serum was evaluated by ELISA. The proportion of goats with low antibody levels was 56.67% according to the neutralizing antibody assay and 33. 33% according to the ELISA, and McNemar's test showed that the results of the two assays were not significantly different (P = 0.754), but that their consistency is poor (Kappa = 0.286, P = 0.114). Moreover, longitudinal evaluation of serum antibodies before and after intravitreal injection of AAV2 in goats revealed that the level of AAV antibodies increased and transduction inhibition subsequently increased, as reported in humans, indicating that transduction inhibition should be taken into account at different stages of gene therapy. In summary, starting with an evaluation of monkey serum antibodies, we optimized a detection method of goat serum antibodies, providing an alternative large animal model for gene therapy, and our serum antibody measurement method may be applied to other large animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huirong Pan
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Vision Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China; National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Yu-Fen Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Vision Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China; National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Yuting Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Vision Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China; National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Lili Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Vision Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China; National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Bingyan Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Vision Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China; National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Shihan Song
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Vision Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China; National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Mingyue Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Vision Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China; National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Zhuowei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Vision Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China; National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Wencan Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Vision Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China; National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China.
| | - Mengyun Li
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Vision Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China; Shaoxing People's Hospital, Shaoxing, 312000, China.
| | - Yikui Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Vision Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China; National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China.
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8
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Abdul TY, Hawse GP, Smith J, Sellon JL, Abdel MP, Wells JW, Coenen MJ, Evans CH, De La Vega RE. Prevalence of AAV2.5 neutralizing antibodies in synovial fluid and serum of patients with osteoarthritis. Gene Ther 2023; 30:587-591. [PMID: 35260797 PMCID: PMC9598672 DOI: 10.1038/s41434-022-00326-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a leading cause of disability with no cure and only supportive therapy. Adeno-associated virus (AAV) serotype 2.5 is being used in a Phase I clinical trial to deliver the interleukin-1 receptor antagonist into knee joints with OA. Neutralizing antibodies (Nab) directed against AAV2.5, if present, could inhibit gene transfer. Here, we report the prevalence of AAV2.5 Nab in the sera and synovial fluids of patients with OA. Nab titers were measured by their ability to inhibit in vitro transduction by AAV2.5 encoding GFP. Of 44 synovial fluids from patients with mid-stage and advanced OA, 43% had undetectable Nab; 25% had low titers (<1:100), 16% had medium titers (1:100-1:1000) and 16% had high titers (>1:1000) of Nab. Titers of AAV2.5 Nabs correlated with those of AAV2, but not with those of AAV5. Serum titers of AAV2.5 Nab correlated positively with titers in synovial fluid, and were never less than the matched synovial fluid titers. These findings suggest that high titers of Nab against AAV2.5 are uncommon in the synovial fluids of patients with OA, and individuals with high synovial fluid Nab titers can be identified by measuring titers in the serum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Temilola Y Abdul
- Rehabilitation Medicine Research Center, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
| | - Gresin P Hawse
- Rehabilitation Medicine Research Center, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Jay Smith
- Rehabilitation Medicine Research Center, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Jacob L Sellon
- Rehabilitation Medicine Research Center, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Matthew P Abdel
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - James W Wells
- The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, Woolloongabba, Australia
| | - Michael J Coenen
- Rehabilitation Medicine Research Center, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Christopher H Evans
- Rehabilitation Medicine Research Center, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA.
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA.
| | - Rodolfo E De La Vega
- Rehabilitation Medicine Research Center, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Department of Cellular Biology Inspired Tissue Engineering, MERLN Institute, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
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9
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Arjomandnejad M, Dasgupta I, Flotte TR, Keeler AM. Immunogenicity of Recombinant Adeno-Associated Virus (AAV) Vectors for Gene Transfer. BioDrugs 2023; 37:311-329. [PMID: 36862289 PMCID: PMC9979149 DOI: 10.1007/s40259-023-00585-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2023]
Abstract
Recombinant adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) have emerged as promising gene delivery vehicles resulting in three US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and one European Medicines Agency (EMA)-approved AAV-based gene therapies. Despite being a leading platform for therapeutic gene transfer in several clinical trials, host immune responses against the AAV vector and transgene have hampered their widespread application. Multiple factors, including vector design, dose, and route of administration, contribute to the overall immunogenicity of AAVs. The immune responses against the AAV capsid and transgene involve an initial innate sensing. The innate immune response subsequently triggers an adaptive immune response to elicit a robust and specific response against the AAV vector. AAV gene therapy clinical trials and preclinical studies provide important information about the immune-mediated toxicities associated with AAV, yet studies suggest preclinical models fail to precisely predict the outcome of gene delivery in humans. This review discusses the contribution of the innate and adaptive immune response against AAVs, highlighting the challenges and potential strategies to mitigate these responses, thereby enhancing the therapeutic potential of AAV gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Motahareh Arjomandnejad
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, 386 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Ishani Dasgupta
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, 386 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Terence R Flotte
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, 386 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Allison M Keeler
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, 386 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA.
- NeuroNexus Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA.
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10
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Dai Y, Dong H, Gleason C, Mora J, Kolaitis G, Balasubramanian N, Surapaneni S, Kozhich A, Jawa V. Comparison of Pre-existing Anti-AAV8 Total Antibody Screening and Confirmatory Assays with a Cell-Based Neutralizing Assay in Normal Human Serum. AAPS J 2023; 25:35. [PMID: 37012501 DOI: 10.1208/s12248-023-00805-6] [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: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Pre-existing adeno-associated viruses (AAV) neutralizing antibodies (NAb) can prevent AAV vectors from transducing target tissues. The immune responses can include binding/total antibodies (TAb) and neutralizing antibodies (NAb). This study is aimed at comparing total antibody assay (TAb) and cell-based NAb assay against AAV8 to help inform the best assay format for patient exclusion criteria. We developed a chemiluminescence-based enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay to analyze AAV8 TAb in human serum. The specificity of AAV8 TAb was determined using a confirmatory assay. A COS-7-based assay was used to analyze anti-AAV8 NAbs. The TAb screening cut point factor was determined to be 2.65, and the confirmatory cut point (CCP) was 57.1%. The prevalence of AAV8 TAb in 84 normal subjects was 40%, of which 24% were NAb positive and 16% were NAb negative. All NAb-positive subjects were confirmed to be TAb-positive and also passed the CCP-positive criteria. All 16 NAb-negative subjects did not pass the CCP criterion for the positive specificity test. There was a high concordance between AAV8 TAb confirmatory assay and NAb assay. The confirmatory assay improved the specificity of the TAb screening test and confirmed neutralizing activity. We proposed a tiered assay approach, in which an anti-AAV8 screening assay should be followed by a confirmatory assay during pre-enrollment for patient exclusions for AAV8 gene therapy. This approach can be used in lieu of developing a NAb assay and can be also implemented as a companion diagnostic assay for post-marketing seroreactivity assessments due to ease of development and use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanshan Dai
- Clinical Pharmacology, Pharmacometrics, Disposition & Bioanalysis, Bristol Myers Squibb Company, Princeton, New Jersey, 08543, USA.
| | - Huijin Dong
- Clinical Pharmacology, Pharmacometrics, Disposition & Bioanalysis, Bristol Myers Squibb Company, Princeton, New Jersey, 08543, USA
| | - Carol Gleason
- Clinical Pharmacology, Pharmacometrics, Disposition & Bioanalysis, Bristol Myers Squibb Company, Princeton, New Jersey, 08543, USA
| | - Johanna Mora
- Clinical Pharmacology, Pharmacometrics, Disposition & Bioanalysis, Bristol Myers Squibb Company, Princeton, New Jersey, 08543, USA
| | - Gerry Kolaitis
- Clinical Pharmacology, Pharmacometrics, Disposition & Bioanalysis, Bristol Myers Squibb Company, Princeton, New Jersey, 08543, USA
| | - Nanda Balasubramanian
- Clinical Pharmacology, Pharmacometrics, Disposition & Bioanalysis, Bristol Myers Squibb Company, Princeton, New Jersey, 08543, USA
| | - Sekhar Surapaneni
- Clinical Pharmacology, Pharmacometrics, Disposition & Bioanalysis, Bristol Myers Squibb Company, Princeton, New Jersey, 08543, USA
| | - Alexander Kozhich
- Clinical Pharmacology, Pharmacometrics, Disposition & Bioanalysis, Bristol Myers Squibb Company, Princeton, New Jersey, 08543, USA
| | - Vibha Jawa
- Clinical Pharmacology, Pharmacometrics, Disposition & Bioanalysis, Bristol Myers Squibb Company, Princeton, New Jersey, 08543, USA
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11
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Ishibashi Y, Sung CYW, Grati M, Chien W. Immune responses in the mammalian inner ear and their implications for AAV-mediated inner ear gene therapy. Hear Res 2023; 432:108735. [PMID: 36965335 DOI: 10.1016/j.heares.2023.108735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2022] [Revised: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2023] [Indexed: 03/13/2023]
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated inner ear gene therapy is a promising treatment option for hearing loss and dizziness. Several studies have shown that AAV-mediated inner ear gene therapy can be applied to various mouse models of hereditary hearing loss to improve their auditory function. Despite the increase in AAV-based animal and clinical studies aiming to rescue auditory and vestibular functions, little is currently known about the host immune responses to AAV in the mammalian inner ear. It has been reported that the host immune response plays an important role in the safety and efficacy of viral-mediated gene therapy. Therefore, in order for AAV-mediated gene therapy to be successfully and safely translated into patients with hearing loss and dizziness, a better understanding of the host immune responses to AAV in the inner ear is critical. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on host immune responses to AAV-mediated gene therapy in the mammalian inner ear and other organ systems. We also outline the areas of research that are critical for ensuring the safety and efficacy of AAV-mediated inner ear gene therapy in future clinical and translational studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasuko Ishibashi
- Inner Ear Gene Therapy Program, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), National Institutes of Health, 35A 1F220, 35A Covent Dr., Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Cathy Yea Won Sung
- Laboratory of Hearing Biology and Therapeutics, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Mhamed Grati
- Inner Ear Gene Therapy Program, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), National Institutes of Health, 35A 1F220, 35A Covent Dr., Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Wade Chien
- Inner Ear Gene Therapy Program, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), National Institutes of Health, 35A 1F220, 35A Covent Dr., Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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12
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Schulz M, Levy DI, Petropoulos CJ, Bashirians G, Winburn I, Mahn M, Somanathan S, Cheng SH, Byrne BJ. Binding and neutralizing anti-AAV antibodies: Detection and implications for rAAV-mediated gene therapy. Mol Ther 2023; 31:616-630. [PMID: 36635967 PMCID: PMC10014285 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2023.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Assessment of anti-adeno-associated virus (AAV) antibodies in patients prior to systemic gene therapy administration is an important consideration regarding efficacy and safety of the therapy. Approximately 30%-60% of individuals have pre-existing anti-AAV antibodies. Seroprevalence is impacted by multiple factors, including geography, age, capsid serotype, and assay type. Anti-AAV antibody assays typically measure (1) transduction inhibition by detecting the neutralizing capacity of antibodies and non-antibody neutralizing factors, or (2) total anti-capsid binding antibodies, regardless of neutralizing activity. Presently, there is a paucity of head-to-head data and standardized approaches associating assay results with clinical outcomes. In addition, establishing clinically relevant screening titer cutoffs is complex. Thus, meaningful comparisons across assays are nearly impossible. Although complex, establishing screening assays in routine clinical practice to identify patients with antibody levels that may impact favorable treatment outcomes is achievable for both transduction inhibition and total antibody assays. Formal regulatory approval of such assays as companion diagnostic tests will confirm their suitability for specific recombinant AAV gene therapies. This review covers current approaches to measure anti-AAV antibodies in patient plasma or serum, their potential impact on therapeutic safety and efficacy, and investigative strategies to mitigate the effects of pre-existing anti-AAV antibodies in patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Schulz
- Pfizer, 235 East 42nd Street, New York, NY 10017, USA
| | - Daniel I Levy
- Pfizer, 235 East 42nd Street, New York, NY 10017, USA
| | | | | | - Ian Winburn
- Pfizer, 235 East 42nd Street, New York, NY 10017, USA
| | - Matthias Mahn
- Pfizer, 235 East 42nd Street, New York, NY 10017, USA
| | | | - Seng H Cheng
- Pfizer, 235 East 42nd Street, New York, NY 10017, USA
| | - Barry J Byrne
- University of Florida, 1600 SW Archer Road, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA.
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13
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Clinical enrollment assay to detect preexisting neutralizing antibodies to AAV6 with demonstrated transgene expression in gene therapy trials. Gene Ther 2023; 30:150-159. [PMID: 35778500 PMCID: PMC9935387 DOI: 10.1038/s41434-022-00353-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Recombinant adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors are the leading platform for gene delivery for a variety of clinical applications. Patients with preexisting antibodies to AAV are currently excluded from most AAV gene therapy trials to avoid vector neutralization and ensure response to therapy. Anti-AAV neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) are typically assessed by in vitro cell-based transduction inhibition (TI) assays. However, clinical relevance of the determined enrollment cutoff and the inherent variability of a cell-based assay present challenges for use as an enrollment screening test. Here, we describe an enrollment cutoff that was clinically validated and strategies to overcome assay challenges to enable long-term stable performance. A validated anti-AAV6 cell-based TI assay was used to support clinical enrollment across multiple investigational gene therapies and to evaluate AAV6 seroprevalence in healthy and disease populations. The clinical enrollment cutoff was determined statistically using samples collected from healthy donors, applying a 0.1% false error rate with the inclusion of a minimum significant ratio (MSR) metric and in consideration of results from in vivo mouse passive transfer studies. Our strategy for long-term monitoring and control of assay performance employed plate quality control samples flanking the predefined cutoff. An approach using donor samples was implemented to bridge different lots of critical reagents without the need to redefine the cutoff.
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14
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Zheng Z, Ye J, Leng M, Gan C, Tang N, Li W, Valencia CA, Dong B, Chow HY. Enhanced sensitivity of neutralizing antibody detection for different AAV serotypes using HeLa cells with overexpressed AAVR. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1188290. [PMID: 37188274 PMCID: PMC10176094 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1188290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
A cell-based transduction inhibition assay (TI) is widely used in clinical trials to detect neutralizing antibody (NAb) titers against recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV), one of the most important criteria to exclude patients in gene therapy. Different cell lines are used in cell-based TI because the rAAV transduction efficiencies vary largely among serotypes. A cell line suitable for TI for most serotypes is highly desirable, especially for those with very low transduction efficiencies in vitro such as rAAV8 and rAAV9. Herein, we report an AAVR-HeLa, a stable cell line with overexpressed AAVR, a newly identified receptor for rAAVs, was established for cell-based TIs. The AAVR expression level in AAVR-HeLa cells was approximately 10-fold higher than in HeLa cells, and was stably transfected after twenty three passages. For all AAV serotypes (AAV1-10), except for AAV4, the transduction efficiencies increased significantly in AAVR-HeLa cells. It was demonstrated that the AAVR enhancement of transduction efficiency was only for rAAV and not for lentiviral and adenoviral vectors. According to the minimal multiplicity of infection (MOIs) for the assay, the NAb detection sensitivity increased at least 10 and 20 fold for AAV8 and AAV9, respectively. The seroprevalence of NAbs were investigated at the 1:30 level as a cutoff value using AAVR-HeLa cells. It was shown that the seropositive rate for AAV2 was 87% in serum samples from 99 adults, followed by lower seropositive rates for AAV5 (7%), AAV8 (7%) and AAV9 (1%). Venn diagram analysis showed the presence of cross-reactivity of NAbs to two or three serotypes in 13 samples (13.1%). However, no patient was found to possess NAbs for all the four serotypes. These results demonstrated that the AAVR-HeLa cell line may be utilized to detect the NAbs through cell-based TI assays for most of AAV serotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaoyue Zheng
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jingya Ye
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Mi Leng
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Chunmei Gan
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Na Tang
- Sichuan Real and Best Biotech Co., Ltd., Chengdu, China
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Dermatovenereology, Rare Disease Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - C. Alexander Valencia
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Biao Dong
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Sichuan Real and Best Biotech Co., Ltd., Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Hoi Yee Chow, ; Biao Dong,
| | - Hoi Yee Chow
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Hoi Yee Chow, ; Biao Dong,
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15
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Simmons E, Wen Y, Li J, Qian YW, Wong LC, Konrad RJ, Bivi N. A sensitive and drug tolerant assay for detecting anti-AAV9 antibodies using affinity capture elution. J Immunol Methods 2023; 512:113397. [PMID: 36481208 DOI: 10.1016/j.jim.2022.113397] [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: 06/22/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/08/2022]
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV) based gene therapies are gaining significant momentum as a novel therapeutic modality. However, a yet unsolved concern for using AAV as a vector is the high potential to elicit humoral and cellular responses, which are often exacerbated by pre-existing immunity due to exposure to wild type AAV. Therefore, characterization of pre-existing and treatment emergent anti-AAV antibodies is of great importance to the development of AAV based gene therapies. In this project, a sensitive and drug tolerant total antibody (TAb) assay was developed using recombinant AAV9-GFP (green fluorescent protein) as a surrogate AAV9. The assay format was affinity capture and elution (ACE) with ruthenium labeled AAV9-GFP as detection. Upon evaluation, three commercial anti-AAV9 monoclonal antibodies (clones HI17, HI35, and HL2374) were chosen and mixed at equal concentrations as positive control material. The assay sensitivity was estimated to be 11.2 ng/mL. Drug tolerance was estimated to be 5.4 × 10E10 DRP/mL AAV9-GFP at 100 ng/mL anti-AAV9 antibodies and to be at least 1 × 10E11 DRP/mL at 500 ng/mL and 250 ng/mL anti-AAV9 antibodies. The assay showed desirable specificity and precision. Using this TAb assay, significant pre-existing antibodies were detected from normal human sera.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Simmons
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN 46285, USA
| | - Yi Wen
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN 46285, USA.
| | - Jingling Li
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN 46285, USA
| | - Yue-Wei Qian
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN 46285, USA
| | - Li Chin Wong
- Prevail Therapeutics - a Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of Eli Lilly and Company, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Robert J Konrad
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN 46285, USA
| | - Nicoletta Bivi
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN 46285, USA
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16
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Prasad S, Dimmock DP, Greenberg B, Walia JS, Sadhu C, Tavakkoli F, Lipshutz GS. Immune Responses and Immunosuppressive Strategies for Adeno-Associated Virus-Based Gene Therapy for Treatment of Central Nervous System Disorders: Current Knowledge and Approaches. Hum Gene Ther 2022; 33:1228-1245. [PMID: 35994385 PMCID: PMC9808800 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2022.138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) are being increasingly used as gene therapy vectors in clinical studies especially targeting central nervous system (CNS) disorders. Correspondingly, host immune responses to the AAV capsid or the transgene-encoded protein have been observed in various clinical and preclinical studies. Such immune responses may adversely impact patients' health, prevent viral transduction, prevent repeated dosing strategies, eliminate transduced cells, and pose a significant barrier to the potential effectiveness of AAV gene therapy. Consequently, multiple immunomodulatory strategies have been used in attempts to limit immune-mediated responses to the vector, enable readministration of AAV gene therapy, prevent end-organ toxicity, and increase the duration of transgene-encoded protein expression. Herein we review the innate and adaptive immune responses that may occur during CNS-targeted AAV gene therapy as well as host- and treatment-specific factors that could impact the immune response. We also summarize the available preclinical and clinical data on immune responses specifically to CNS-targeted AAV gene therapy and discuss potential strategies for incorporating prophylactic immunosuppression regimens to circumvent adverse immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - David P. Dimmock
- Rady Children's Institute for Genomic Medicine, Rady Children's Hospital, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Benjamin Greenberg
- Department of Neurology, O'Donnell Brain Institute, University of Texas Southwestern, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Jagdeep S. Walia
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Queen's University, Kingston, Canada
| | | | | | - Gerald S. Lipshutz
- Departments of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology and Surgery, Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center at UCLA, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA.,Correspondence: Prof. Gerald S. Lipshutz, Departments of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology and Surgery, Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center at UCLA, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
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17
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Earley J, Piletska E, Ronzitti G, Piletsky S. Evading and overcoming AAV neutralization in gene therapy. Trends Biotechnol 2022; 41:836-845. [PMID: 36503641 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2022.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV)-derived viral vectors are a promising platform for the delivery of curative, life-changing therapies to a huge number of patients with monogenic disorders. There are currently over 250 clinical trials ongoing worldwide. However, for these therapies to benefit as many patients as possible, techniques must be developed to treat those with pre-existing immunity and to potentially allow re-administration of a dose in the future, should efficacy wane over time. This review discusses the current state and prospects of technologies to evade and overcome these immune responses and allow successful treatment of the greatest number of patients possible.
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18
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Amini M, Venkatesan JK, Liu W, Leroux A, Nguyen TN, Madry H, Migonney V, Cucchiarini M. Advanced Gene Therapy Strategies for the Repair of ACL Injuries. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232214467. [PMID: 36430947 PMCID: PMC9695211 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232214467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), the principal ligament for stabilization of the knee, is highly predisposed to injury in the human population. As a result of its poor intrinsic healing capacities, surgical intervention is generally necessary to repair ACL lesions, yet the outcomes are never fully satisfactory in terms of long-lasting, complete, and safe repair. Gene therapy, based on the transfer of therapeutic genetic sequences via a gene vector, is a potent tool to durably and adeptly enhance the processes of ACL repair and has been reported for its workability in various experimental models relevant to ACL injuries in vitro, in situ, and in vivo. As critical hurdles to the effective and safe translation of gene therapy for clinical applications still remain, including physiological barriers and host immune responses, biomaterial-guided gene therapy inspired by drug delivery systems has been further developed to protect and improve the classical procedures of gene transfer in the future treatment of ACL injuries in patients, as critically presented here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahnaz Amini
- Center of Experimental Orthopaedics, Saarland University Medical Center, Kirrbergerstr. Bldg 37, D-66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Jagadeesh K. Venkatesan
- Center of Experimental Orthopaedics, Saarland University Medical Center, Kirrbergerstr. Bldg 37, D-66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Wei Liu
- Center of Experimental Orthopaedics, Saarland University Medical Center, Kirrbergerstr. Bldg 37, D-66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Amélie Leroux
- Laboratoire CSPBAT UMR CNRS 7244, Université Sorbonne Paris Nord, Avenue JB Clément, 93430 Villetaneuse, France
| | - Tuan Ngoc Nguyen
- Laboratoire CSPBAT UMR CNRS 7244, Université Sorbonne Paris Nord, Avenue JB Clément, 93430 Villetaneuse, France
| | - Henning Madry
- Center of Experimental Orthopaedics, Saarland University Medical Center, Kirrbergerstr. Bldg 37, D-66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Véronique Migonney
- Laboratoire CSPBAT UMR CNRS 7244, Université Sorbonne Paris Nord, Avenue JB Clément, 93430 Villetaneuse, France
| | - Magali Cucchiarini
- Center of Experimental Orthopaedics, Saarland University Medical Center, Kirrbergerstr. Bldg 37, D-66421 Homburg, Germany
- Correspondence: or
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Development and validation of methods that enable high-quality droplet digital PCR and hematological profiling data from microvolume blood samples. Bioanalysis 2022; 14:1197-1211. [PMID: 36331037 DOI: 10.4155/bio-2022-0162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: Mouse models have been crucial to preclinical studies in the increasingly relevant fields of cell and gene therapy. However, only small quantities of mouse blood can be collected without producing adverse physiological effects that compromise data integrity. Results: To address this limitation, two combined methods were developed to create detailed droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) and hematological profiles using only ∼20 μl of mouse blood. The validation of these methods, which can serve as a foundation for a standardized regulatory pipeline for ddPCR, is discussed. Even when using small amounts of input, this ddPCR protocol is accurate, precise, selective, specific, stable and robust. Conclusion: These techniques enable more frequent sample collection for higher-resolution pharmacokinetic data that meets or exceeds quality standards.
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20
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Sui H, Xu X, Su Y, Gong Z, Yao M, Liu X, Zhang T, Jiang Z, Bai T, Wang J, Zhang J, Xu C, Luo M. Gene therapy for cystic fibrosis: Challenges and prospects. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1015926. [PMID: 36304167 PMCID: PMC9592762 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1015926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a life-threatening autosomal-recessive disease caused by mutations in a single gene encoding cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR). CF effects multiple organs, and lung disease is the primary cause of mortality. The median age at death from CF is in the early forties. CF was one of the first diseases to be considered for gene therapy, and efforts focused on treating CF lung disease began shortly after the CFTR gene was identified in 1989. However, despite the quickly established proof-of-concept for CFTR gene transfer in vitro and in clinical trials in 1990s, to date, 36 CF gene therapy clinical trials involving ∼600 patients with CF have yet to achieve their desired outcomes. The long journey to pursue gene therapy as a cure for CF encountered more difficulties than originally anticipated, but immense progress has been made in the past decade in the developments of next generation airway transduction viral vectors and CF animal models that reproduced human CF disease phenotypes. In this review, we look back at the history for the lessons learned from previous clinical trials and summarize the recent advances in the research for CF gene therapy, including the emerging CRISPR-based gene editing strategies. We also discuss the airway transduction vectors, large animal CF models, the complexity of CF pathogenesis and heterogeneity of CFTR expression in airway epithelium, which are the major challenges to the implementation of a successful CF gene therapy, and highlight the future opportunities and prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongshu Sui
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Clinical and Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Science, Jinan, Shandong, China
- *Correspondence: Hongshu Sui, ; Changlong Xu, ; Mingjiu Luo,
| | - Xinghua Xu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Clinical and Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Science, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yanping Su
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Clinical and Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Science, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Zhaoqing Gong
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Clinical and Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Science, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Minhua Yao
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Clinical and Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Science, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Xiaocui Liu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Clinical and Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Science, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Ting Zhang
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Clinical and Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Science, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Ziyao Jiang
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Clinical and Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Science, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Tianhao Bai
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and Prevention, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an, China
| | - Junzuo Wang
- The Affiliated Tai’an City Central Hospital of Qingdao University, Tai’an, Shandong, China
| | - Jingjun Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Tai’an, Shandong, China
| | - Changlong Xu
- The Reproductive Medical Center of Nanning Second People’s Hospital, Nanning, China
- National Center for International Research of Bio-targeting Theranostics, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Bio-targeting Theranostics, Collaborative Innovation Center for Targeting Tumor Diagnosis and Therapy, Guangxi Talent Highland of Bio-targeting Theranostics, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
- *Correspondence: Hongshu Sui, ; Changlong Xu, ; Mingjiu Luo,
| | - Mingjiu Luo
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and Prevention, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an, China
- *Correspondence: Hongshu Sui, ; Changlong Xu, ; Mingjiu Luo,
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21
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Li X, Wei X, Lin J, Ou L. A versatile toolkit for overcoming AAV immunity. Front Immunol 2022; 13:991832. [PMID: 36119036 PMCID: PMC9479010 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.991832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Recombinant adeno-associated virus (AAV) is a promising delivery vehicle for in vivo gene therapy and has been widely used in >200 clinical trials globally. There are already several approved gene therapy products, e.g., Luxturna and Zolgensma, highlighting the remarkable potential of AAV delivery. In the past, AAV has been seen as a relatively non-immunogenic vector associated with low risk of toxicity. However, an increasing number of recent studies indicate that immune responses against AAV and transgene products could be the bottleneck of AAV gene therapy. In clinical studies, pre-existing antibodies against AAV capsids exclude many patients from receiving the treatment as there is high prevalence of antibodies among humans. Moreover, immune response could lead to loss of efficacy over time and severe toxicity, manifested as liver enzyme elevations, kidney injury, and thrombocytopenia, resulting in deaths of non-human primates and patients. Therefore, extensive efforts have been attempted to address these issues, including capsid engineering, plasmapheresis, IgG proteases, CpG depletion, empty capsid decoy, exosome encapsulation, capsid variant switch, induction of regulatory T cells, and immunosuppressants. This review will discuss these methods in detail and highlight important milestones along the way.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuefeng Li
- The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Qingyuan People’s Hospital; State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, Sino-French Hoffmann Institute, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Shenzhen Luohu People’s Hospital, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiaoli Wei
- Guangzhou Dezheng Biotechnology Co., Ltd., Guangzhou, China
| | - Jinduan Lin
- The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Qingyuan People’s Hospital; State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, Sino-French Hoffmann Institute, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Li Ou
- Genemagic Biosciences, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
- *Correspondence: Li Ou,
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22
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Lewin AS, Smith WC. Gene Therapy for Rhodopsin Mutations. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2022; 12:a041283. [PMID: 35940643 PMCID: PMC9435570 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a041283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Mutations in RHO, the gene for rhodopsin, account for a large fraction of autosomal-dominant retinitis pigmentosa (adRP). Patients fall into two clinical classes, those with early onset, pan retinal photoreceptor degeneration, and those who experience slowly progressive disease. The latter class of patients are candidates for photoreceptor-directed gene therapy, while former may be candidates for delivery of light-responsive proteins to interneurons or retinal ganglion cells. Gene therapy for RHO adRP may be targeted to the mutant gene at the DNA or RNA level, while other therapies preserve the viability of photoreceptors without addressing the underlying mutation. Correcting the RHO gene and replacing the mutant RNA show promise in animal models, while sustaining viable photoreceptors has the potential to delay the loss of central vision and may preserve photoreceptors for gene-directed treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alfred S Lewin
- Departments of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology and Ophthalmology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida 32610, USA
| | - W Clay Smith
- Departments of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology and Ophthalmology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida 32610, USA
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23
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Zhao Z, Kim J, Suja VC, Kapate N, Gao Y, Guo J, Muzykantov VR, Mitragotri S. Red Blood Cell Anchoring Enables Targeted Transduction and Re-Administration of AAV-Mediated Gene Therapy. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2022; 9:e2201293. [PMID: 35780495 PMCID: PMC9404386 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202201293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2022] [Revised: 05/14/2022] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated gene therapy is a promising therapeutic modality for curing many diseases including monogenic diseases. However, limited tissue-targeting and restricted re-administration due to the vector immunogenicity largely restrict its therapeutic potential. Here, using a red blood cell (RBC) as the carrier vehicle for AAV is demonstrated to improve its tissue-targeted transduction and enable its re-administration. Anchoring AAV to the RBC surface minimally affected its infectability toward endothelial cells. Meanwhile, AAV anchored onto RBCs is predominantly delivered to and shows efficient transduction in the lungs by virtue of the biophysical features of RBCs. RBC-anchored AAVs lead to a four- to five-fold enhancement in target gene expression in the lungsas compared to free AAVs following a single- or dual-dosing regimen. While RBC anchoring does not prevent the induction of adaptive immune responses against AAV, it results in successful transgene expression upon re-administration following prior AAV exposure. The ability to re-administer is partially attributed to the delayed and reduced AAV neutralization by neutralizing antibodies, resulting from the combination of limited exposure of physically confined AAVs and the short time required to reach the lungs. This study's findings suggest that the RBC-mediated approach is a promising strategy for repetitive, targeted AAV gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zongmin Zhao
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied SciencesHarvard UniversityCambridgeMA02138USA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard UniversityBostonMA02115USA
- Present address:
Department of Pharmaceutical SciencesCollege of PharmacyUniversity of Illinois ChicagoChicagoIL60612USA
| | - Jayoung Kim
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied SciencesHarvard UniversityCambridgeMA02138USA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard UniversityBostonMA02115USA
| | - Vinny Chandran Suja
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied SciencesHarvard UniversityCambridgeMA02138USA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard UniversityBostonMA02115USA
| | - Neha Kapate
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied SciencesHarvard UniversityCambridgeMA02138USA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard UniversityBostonMA02115USA
- Harvard‐MIT Division of Health Sciences and TechnologyMassachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeMA02139USA
| | - Yongsheng Gao
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied SciencesHarvard UniversityCambridgeMA02138USA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard UniversityBostonMA02115USA
| | - Junling Guo
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied SciencesHarvard UniversityCambridgeMA02138USA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard UniversityBostonMA02115USA
| | - Vladimir R. Muzykantov
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics and Center for Translational Targeted Therapeutics and NanomedicinePerelman School of MedicineUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPA19104USA
| | - Samir Mitragotri
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied SciencesHarvard UniversityCambridgeMA02138USA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard UniversityBostonMA02115USA
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24
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Arjomandnejad M, Keeler AM. Evaluating Readministration of Adeno-Associated Virus for Gene Therapy. Hum Gene Ther 2022; 33:218-220. [PMID: 35294310 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2022.29204.mar] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Allison M Keeler
- Horae Gene Therapy Center.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of NeuroNexus Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
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25
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Vrouwe JPM, Meulenberg JJM, Klarenbeek NB, Navas-Cañete A, Reijnierse M, Ruiterkamp G, Bevaart L, Lamers RJ, Kloppenburg M, Nelissen RGHH, Huizinga TWJ, Burggraaf J, Kamerling IMC. Administration of an adeno-associated viral vector expressing interferon-β in patients with inflammatory hand arthritis, results of a phase I/II study. Osteoarthritis Cartilage 2022; 30:52-60. [PMID: 34626797 DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2021.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Inflammatory hand arthritis (IHA) results in impaired function. Local gene therapy with ART-I02, a recombinant adeno-associated virus (AAV) serotype 5 vector expressing interferon (IFN)-β, under the transcriptional control of nuclear factor κ-B responsive promoter, was preclinically shown to have favorable effects. This study aimed to investigate the safety and tolerability of local gene therapy with ART-I02 in patients with IHA. METHODS In this first-in-human, dose-escalating, cohort study, 12 IHA patients were to receive a single intra-articular (IA) injection of ART-I02 ranging 0.3 × 1012-1.2 × 1013 genome copies in an affected hand joint. Adverse events (AEs), routine safety laboratory and the clinical course of disease were periodically evaluated. Baseline- and follow-up contrast enhanced magnetic resonance images (MRIs), shedding of viral vectors in bodily fluids, and AAV5 and IFN-β immune responses were evaluated. A data review committee provided safety recommendations. RESULTS Four patients were enrolled. Long-lasting local AEs were observed in 3 patients upon IA injection of ART-I02. The AEs were moderate in severity and could be treated conservative. Given the duration of the AEs and their possible or probable relation to ART-I02, no additional patients were enrolled. No systemic treatment emergent AEs were observed. The MRIs reflected the AEs by (peri)arthritis. No T-cell response against AAV5 or IFN-β, nor IFN-β antibodies could be detected. Neutralizing antibody titers against AAV5 raised post-dose. CONCLUSION Single IA doses of 0.6 × 1012 or 1.2 × 1012 ART-I02 vector genomes were administered without systemic side effects or serious AEs. However, local tolerability was insufficient for continuation. TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT02727764.
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Affiliation(s)
- J P M Vrouwe
- Centre for Human Drug Research, Zernikedreef 8, Leiden, 2333 CL, the Netherlands; Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), Albinusdreef 2, Leiden, 2333 ZA, the Netherlands
| | - J J M Meulenberg
- Department of Oncology, Arthrogen B.V., Meibergdreef 45, Amsterdam, 1005BA, the Netherlands
| | - N B Klarenbeek
- Centre for Human Drug Research, Zernikedreef 8, Leiden, 2333 CL, the Netherlands; Leiden University Medical Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Albinusdreef 2, Leiden, 2333 ZA, the Netherlands
| | - A Navas-Cañete
- Leiden University Medical Center, Department of Radiology, Albinusdreef 2, Leiden, 2333 ZA, the Netherlands.
| | - M Reijnierse
- Leiden University Medical Center, Department of Radiology, Albinusdreef 2, Leiden, 2333 ZA, the Netherlands
| | - G Ruiterkamp
- Department of Oncology, Arthrogen B.V., Meibergdreef 45, Amsterdam, 1005BA, the Netherlands
| | - L Bevaart
- Department of Oncology, Arthrogen B.V., Meibergdreef 45, Amsterdam, 1005BA, the Netherlands
| | - R J Lamers
- Department of Oncology, Arthrogen B.V., Meibergdreef 45, Amsterdam, 1005BA, the Netherlands
| | - M Kloppenburg
- Leiden University Medical Center, Department of Rheumatology, Albinusdreef 2, Leiden, 2333 ZA, the Netherlands
| | - R G H H Nelissen
- Leiden University Medical Center, Department of Orthopaedics, Albinusdreef 2, Leiden, 2333 ZA, the Netherlands
| | - T W J Huizinga
- Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, PO box 9500, Leiden, 2300 RA, the Netherlands
| | - J Burggraaf
- Centre for Human Drug Research, Zernikedreef 8, Leiden, 2333 CL, the Netherlands; Leiden University Medical Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Albinusdreef 2, Leiden, 2333 ZA, the Netherlands; Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, PO box 9500, Leiden, 2300 RA, the Netherlands
| | - I M C Kamerling
- Centre for Human Drug Research, Zernikedreef 8, Leiden, 2333 CL, the Netherlands; Leiden University Medical Center, Department of Infectious Diseases, Albinusdreef 2, Leiden, 2333 ZA, the Netherlands.
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26
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Rapti K, Grimm D. Adeno-Associated Viruses (AAV) and Host Immunity - A Race Between the Hare and the Hedgehog. Front Immunol 2021; 12:753467. [PMID: 34777364 PMCID: PMC8586419 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.753467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Adeno-associated viruses (AAV) have emerged as the lead vector in clinical trials and form the basis for several approved gene therapies for human diseases, mainly owing to their ability to sustain robust and long-term in vivo transgene expression, their amenability to genetic engineering of cargo and capsid, as well as their moderate toxicity and immunogenicity. Still, recent reports of fatalities in a clinical trial for a neuromuscular disease, although linked to an exceptionally high vector dose, have raised new caution about the safety of recombinant AAVs. Moreover, concerns linger about the presence of pre-existing anti-AAV antibodies in the human population, which precludes a significant percentage of patients from receiving, and benefitting from, AAV gene therapies. These concerns are exacerbated by observations of cellular immune responses and other adverse events, including detrimental off-target transgene expression in dorsal root ganglia. Here, we provide an update on our knowledge of the immunological and molecular race between AAV (the “hedgehog”) and its human host (the “hare”), together with a compendium of state-of-the-art technologies which provide an advantage to AAV and which, thus, promise safer and more broadly applicable AAV gene therapies in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kleopatra Rapti
- Department of Infectious Diseases/Virology, Medical Faculty, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,BioQuant Center, BQ0030, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Dirk Grimm
- Department of Infectious Diseases/Virology, Medical Faculty, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,BioQuant Center, BQ0030, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,German Center for Infection Research Deutsches Zentrum für Infektionsforschung (DZIF) and German Center for Cardiovascular Research Deutsches Zentrum für Herz-Kreislauf-Erkrankungen (DZHK), Partner Site Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
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27
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Structurally Mapping Antigenic Epitopes of Adeno-Associated Virus 9: Development of Antibody Escape Variants. J Virol 2021; 96:e0125121. [PMID: 34757842 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.01251-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Adeno-associated viruses (AAV) serve as vectors for therapeutic gene delivery. AAV9 vectors have been FDA approved, as Zolgensma®, for the treatment of spinal muscular atrophy and is being evaluated in clinical trials for the treatment of neurotropic and musculotropic diseases. A major hurdle for AAV-mediated gene delivery is the presence of pre-existing neutralizing antibodies in 40 to 80% of the general population. These pre-existing antibodies can reduce therapeutic efficacy through viral neutralization, and the size of the patient cohort eligible for treatment. In this study, cryo-electron microscopy and image reconstruction was used to define the epitopes of five anti-AAV9 monoclonal antibodies (MAbs); ADK9, HL2368, HL2370, HL2372, and HL2374, on the capsid surface. Three of these, ADK9, HL2370, and HL2374, bound on or near the icosahedral 3-fold axes, HL2368 to the 2/5-fold wall, and HL2372 to the region surrounding the 5-fold axes. Pseudo-atomic modeling enabled the mapping and identification of antibody contact amino acids on the capsid, including S454 and P659. These epitopes overlap with previously defined parvovirus antigenic sites. Capsid amino acids critical for the interactions were confirmed by mutagenesis followed by biochemical assays testing recombinant AAV9 (rAAV9) variants capable of escaping recognition and neutralization by the parental MAbs. These variants retained parental tropism and had similar or improved transduction efficiency compared to AAV9. These engineered rAAV9 variants could expand the patient cohort eligible for AAV9-mediated gene delivery by avoiding pre-existing circulating neutralizing antibodies. IMPORTANCE The use of recombinant AAVs (rAAVs) as delivery vectors for therapeutic genes is becoming increasingly popular, especially following the FDA approval of Luxturna® and Zolgensma®, based on serotypes AAV2 and AAV9, respectively. However, high titer anti-AAV neutralizing antibodies in the general population, exempts patients from treatment. The goal of this study is to circumvent this issue by creating AAV variant vectors not recognized by pre-existing neutralizing antibodies. The mapping of the antigenic epitopes of five different monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) on AAV9, to recapitulate a polyclonal response, enabled the rational design of escape variants with minimal disruption to cell tropism and gene expression. This study, which included four newly developed and now commercially available MAbs, provides a platform for the engineering of rAAV9 vectors that can be used to deliver genes to patients with pre-exiting AAV antibodies.
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28
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Massengill MT, Lewin AS. Gene Therapy for Rhodopsin-associated Autosomal Dominant Retinitis Pigmentosa. Int Ophthalmol Clin 2021; 61:79-96. [PMID: 34584046 PMCID: PMC8478325 DOI: 10.1097/iio.0000000000000383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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29
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Muhuri M, Maeda Y, Ma H, Ram S, Fitzgerald KA, Tai PW, Gao G. Overcoming innate immune barriers that impede AAV gene therapy vectors. J Clin Invest 2021; 131:143780. [PMID: 33393506 DOI: 10.1172/jci143780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The field of gene therapy has made considerable progress over the past several years. Adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors have emerged as promising and attractive tools for in vivo gene therapy. Despite the recent clinical successes achieved with recombinant AAVs (rAAVs) for therapeutics, host immune responses against the vector and transgene product have been observed in numerous preclinical and clinical studies. These outcomes have hampered the advancement of AAV gene therapies, preventing them from becoming fully viable and safe medicines. The human immune system is multidimensional and complex. Both the innate and adaptive arms of the immune system seem to play a concerted role in the response against rAAVs. While most efforts have been focused on the role of adaptive immunity and developing ways to overcome it, the innate immune system has also been found to have a critical function. Innate immunity not only mediates the initial response to the vector, but also primes the adaptive immune system to launch a more deleterious attack against the foreign vector. This Review highlights what is known about innate immune responses against rAAVs and discusses potential strategies to circumvent these pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manish Muhuri
- Horae Gene Therapy Center.,Department of Microbiology and Physiological Systems.,VIDE Program
| | - Yukiko Maeda
- Horae Gene Therapy Center.,VIDE Program.,Department of Medicine
| | | | - Sanjay Ram
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology
| | | | - Phillip Wl Tai
- Horae Gene Therapy Center.,Department of Microbiology and Physiological Systems.,VIDE Program
| | - Guangping Gao
- Horae Gene Therapy Center.,Department of Microbiology and Physiological Systems.,Li Weibo Institute for Rare Diseases Research, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
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30
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Mehta N, Robbins DA, Yiu G. Ocular Inflammation and Treatment Emergent Adverse Events in Retinal Gene Therapy. Int Ophthalmol Clin 2021; 61:151-177. [PMID: 34196322 PMCID: PMC8259781 DOI: 10.1097/iio.0000000000000366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Neesurg Mehta
- Department of Ophthalmology & Vision Science, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA
| | - Deborah Ahn Robbins
- Department of Ophthalmology & Vision Science, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA
| | - Glenn Yiu
- Department of Ophthalmology & Vision Science, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA
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31
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Emerging Immunogenicity and Genotoxicity Considerations of Adeno-Associated Virus Vector Gene Therapy for Hemophilia. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10112471. [PMID: 34199563 PMCID: PMC8199697 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10112471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Adeno-associated viral (AAV) vector gene therapy has shown promise as a possible cure for hemophilia. However, immune responses directed against AAV vectors remain a hurdle to the broader use of this gene transfer platform. Both innate and adaptive immune responses can affect the safety and efficacy of AAV vector-mediated gene transfer in humans. These immune responses may be triggered by the viral capsid, the vector's nucleic acid payload, or other vector contaminants or excipients, or by the transgene product encoded by the vector itself. Various preclinical and clinical strategies have been explored to overcome the issues of AAV vector immunogenicity and transgene-related immune responses. Although results of these strategies are encouraging, more efficient approaches are needed to deliver safe, predictable, and durable outcomes for people with hemophilia. In addition to durability, long-term follow-up of gene therapy trial participants will allow us to address potential safety concerns related to vector integration. Herein, we describe the challenges with current methodologies to deliver optimal outcomes for people with hemophilia who choose to undergo AAV vector gene therapy and the potential opportunities to improve on the results.
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32
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Discussing investigational AAV gene therapy with hemophilia patients: A guide. Blood Rev 2021; 47:100759. [DOI: 10.1016/j.blre.2020.100759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Revised: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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33
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Gupta V, Lourenço SP, Hidalgo IJ. Development of Gene Therapy Vectors: Remaining Challenges. J Pharm Sci 2021; 110:1915-1920. [DOI: 10.1016/j.xphs.2020.11.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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34
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Whitehead M, Osborne A, Yu-Wai-Man P, Martin K. Humoral immune responses to AAV gene therapy in the ocular compartment. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2021; 96:1616-1644. [PMID: 33837614 DOI: 10.1111/brv.12718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Viral vectors can be utilised to deliver therapeutic genes to diseased cells. Adeno-associated virus (AAV) is a commonly used viral vector that is favoured for its ability to infect a wide range of tissues whilst displaying limited toxicity and immunogenicity. Most humans harbour anti-AAV neutralising antibodies (NAbs) due to subclinical infections by wild-type virus during infancy and these pre-existing NAbs can limit the efficiency of gene transfer depending on the target cell type, route of administration and choice of serotype. Vector administration can also result in de novo NAb synthesis that could limit the opportunity for repeated gene transfer to diseased sites. A number of strategies have been described in preclinical models that could circumvent NAb responses in humans, however, the successful translation of these innovations into the clinical arena has been limited. Here, we provide a comprehensive review of the humoral immune response to AAV gene therapy in the ocular compartment. We cover basic AAV biology and clinical application, the role of pre-existing and induced NAbs, and possible approaches to overcoming antibody responses. We conclude with a framework for a comprehensive strategy for circumventing humoral immune responses to AAV in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Whitehead
- John Van Geest Centre for Brain Repair, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, U.K
| | - Andrew Osborne
- John Van Geest Centre for Brain Repair, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, U.K
| | - Patrick Yu-Wai-Man
- John Van Geest Centre for Brain Repair, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, U.K.,MRC Mitochondrial Biology Unit, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, U.K.,NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Moorfields Eye Hospital and UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, U.K
| | - Keith Martin
- John Van Geest Centre for Brain Repair, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, U.K.,Wellcome Trust-MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, U.K.,Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Ophthalmology, Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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35
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Chu WS, Ng J. Immunomodulation in Administration of rAAV: Preclinical and Clinical Adjuvant Pharmacotherapies. Front Immunol 2021; 12:658038. [PMID: 33868303 PMCID: PMC8049138 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.658038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) has attracted a significant research focus for delivering genetic therapies to target cells. This non-enveloped virus has been trialed in many clinical-stage therapeutic strategies but important obstacle in clinical translation is the activation of both innate and adaptive immune response to the protein capsid, vector genome and transgene product. In addition, the normal population has pre-existing neutralizing antibodies against wild-type AAV, and cross-reactivity is observed between different rAAV serotypes. While extent of response can be influenced by dosing, administration route and target organ(s), these pose concerns over reduction or complete loss of efficacy, options for re-administration, and other unwanted immunological sequalae such as local tissue damage. To reduce said immunological risks, patients are excluded if they harbor anti-AAV antibodies or have received gene therapy previously. Studies have incorporated immunomodulating or suppressive regimens to block cellular and humoral immune responses such as systemic corticosteroids pre- and post-administration of Luxturna® and Zolgensma®, the two rAAV products with licensed regulatory approval in Europe and the United States. In this review, we will introduce the current pharmacological strategies to immunosuppress or immunomodulate the host immune response to rAAV gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wing Sum Chu
- Pharmacy Department, The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Joanne Ng
- Gene Transfer Technology Group, Department of Maternal and Fetal Medicine, EGA Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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2020 White Paper on Recent Issues in Bioanalysis: Vaccine Assay Validation, qPCR Assay Validation, QC for CAR-T Flow Cytometry, NAb Assay Harmonization and ELISpot Validation ( Part 3 - Recommendations on Immunogenicity Assay Strategies, NAb Assays, Biosimilars and FDA/EMA Immunogenicity Guidance/Guideline, Gene & Cell Therapy and Vaccine Assays). Bioanalysis 2021; 13:415-463. [PMID: 33533276 DOI: 10.4155/bio-2021-0007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The 14th edition of the Workshop on Recent Issues in Bioanalysis (14th WRIB) was held virtually on June 15-29, 2020 with an attendance of over 1000 representatives from pharmaceutical/biopharmaceutical companies, biotechnology companies, contract research organizations, and regulatory agencies worldwide. The 14th WRIB included three Main Workshops, seven Specialized Workshops that together spanned 11 days in order to allow exhaustive and thorough coverage of all major issues in bioanalysis, biomarkers, immunogenicity, gene therapy and vaccine. Moreover, a comprehensive vaccine assays track; an enhanced cytometry track and updated Industry/Regulators consensus on BMV of biotherapeutics by LCMS were special features in 2020. As in previous years, this year's WRIB continued to gather a wide diversity of international industry opinion leaders and regulatory authority experts working on both small and large molecules to facilitate sharing and discussions focused on improving quality, increasing regulatory compliance and achieving scientific excellence on bioanalytical issues. This 2020 White Paper encompasses recommendations emerging from the extensive discussions held during the workshop and is aimed to provide the Global Bioanalytical Community with key information and practical solutions on topics and issues addressed, in an effort to enable advances in scientific excellence, improved quality and better regulatory compliance. Due to its length, the 2020 edition of this comprehensive White Paper has been divided into three parts for editorial reasons. This publication (Part 3) covers the recommendations on Vaccine, Gene/Cell Therapy, NAb Harmonization and Immunogenicity). Part 1 (Innovation in Small Molecules, Hybrid LBA/LCMS & Regulated Bioanalysis), Part 2A (BAV, PK LBA, Flow Cytometry Validation and Cytometry Innovation) and Part 2B (Regulatory Input) are published in volume 13 of Bioanalysis, issues 4 and 5 (2020), respectively.
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Piguet F, de Saint Denis T, Audouard E, Beccaria K, André A, Wurtz G, Schatz R, Alves S, Sevin C, Zerah M, Cartier N. The Challenge of Gene Therapy for Neurological Diseases: Strategies and Tools to Achieve Efficient Delivery to the Central Nervous System. Hum Gene Ther 2021; 32:349-374. [PMID: 33167739 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2020.105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
For more than 10 years, gene therapy for neurological diseases has experienced intensive research growth and more recently therapeutic interventions for multiple indications. Beneficial results in several phase 1/2 clinical studies, together with improved vector technology have advanced gene therapy for the central nervous system (CNS) in a new era of development. Although most initial strategies have focused on orphan genetic diseases, such as lysosomal storage diseases, more complex and widespread conditions like Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, or chronic pain are increasingly targeted for gene therapy. Increasing numbers of applications and patients to be treated will require improvement and simplification of gene therapy protocols to make them accessible to the largest number of affected people. Although vectors and manufacturing are a major field of academic research and industrial development, there is a growing need to improve, standardize, and simplify delivery methods. Delivery is the major issue for CNS therapies in general, and particularly for gene therapy. The blood-brain barrier restricts the passage of vectors; strategies to bypass this obstacle are a central focus of research. In this study, we present the different ways that can be used to deliver gene therapy products to the CNS. We focus on results obtained in large animals that have allowed the transfer of protocols to human patients and have resulted in the generation of clinical data. We discuss the different routes of administration, their advantages, and their limitations. We describe techniques, equipment, and protocols and how they should be selected for safe delivery and improved efficiency for the next generation of gene therapy trials for CNS diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Françoise Piguet
- NeuroGenCell, INSERM U1127, Paris Brain Institute (ICM), Sorbonne University, CNRS, AP-HP, University Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Timothée de Saint Denis
- NeuroGenCell, INSERM U1127, Paris Brain Institute (ICM), Sorbonne University, CNRS, AP-HP, University Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France.,APHP, Department of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Hôpital Necker-Enfants Malades, APHP Centre. Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Emilie Audouard
- NeuroGenCell, INSERM U1127, Paris Brain Institute (ICM), Sorbonne University, CNRS, AP-HP, University Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Kevin Beccaria
- NeuroGenCell, INSERM U1127, Paris Brain Institute (ICM), Sorbonne University, CNRS, AP-HP, University Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France.,APHP, Department of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Hôpital Necker-Enfants Malades, APHP Centre. Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Arthur André
- NeuroGenCell, INSERM U1127, Paris Brain Institute (ICM), Sorbonne University, CNRS, AP-HP, University Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France.,APHP, Department of Neurosurgery, Hôpitaux Universitaires La Pitié-Salpêtrière, Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 6, Paris, France
| | - Guillaume Wurtz
- NeuroGenCell, INSERM U1127, Paris Brain Institute (ICM), Sorbonne University, CNRS, AP-HP, University Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Raphael Schatz
- NeuroGenCell, INSERM U1127, Paris Brain Institute (ICM), Sorbonne University, CNRS, AP-HP, University Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Sandro Alves
- BrainVectis-Askbio France, iPeps Paris Brain Institute, Paris, France
| | - Caroline Sevin
- NeuroGenCell, INSERM U1127, Paris Brain Institute (ICM), Sorbonne University, CNRS, AP-HP, University Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France.,BrainVectis-Askbio France, iPeps Paris Brain Institute, Paris, France.,APHP, Department of Neurology, Hopital le Kremlin Bicetre, Paris, France
| | - Michel Zerah
- NeuroGenCell, INSERM U1127, Paris Brain Institute (ICM), Sorbonne University, CNRS, AP-HP, University Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France.,APHP, Department of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Hôpital Necker-Enfants Malades, APHP Centre. Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Nathalie Cartier
- NeuroGenCell, INSERM U1127, Paris Brain Institute (ICM), Sorbonne University, CNRS, AP-HP, University Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
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Wang Y, Bruggeman KF, Franks S, Gautam V, Hodgetts SI, Harvey AR, Williams RJ, Nisbet DR. Is Viral Vector Gene Delivery More Effective Using Biomaterials? Adv Healthc Mater 2021; 10:e2001238. [PMID: 33191667 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202001238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Revised: 10/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Gene delivery has been extensively investigated for introducing foreign genetic material into cells to promote expression of therapeutic proteins or to silence relevant genes. This approach can regulate genetic or epigenetic disorders, offering an attractive alternative to pharmacological therapy or invasive protein delivery options. However, the exciting potential of viral gene therapy has yet to be fully realized, with a number of clinical trials failing to deliver optimal therapeutic outcomes. Reasons for this include difficulty in achieving localized delivery, and subsequently lower efficacy at the target site, as well as poor or inconsistent transduction efficiency. Thus, ongoing efforts are focused on improving local viral delivery and enhancing its efficiency. Recently, biomaterials have been exploited as an option for more controlled, targeted and programmable gene delivery. There is a growing body of literature demonstrating the efficacy of biomaterials and their potential advantages over other delivery strategies. This review explores current limitations of gene delivery and the progress of biomaterial-mediated gene delivery. The combination of biomaterials and gene vectors holds the potential to surmount major challenges, including the uncontrolled release of viral vectors with random delivery duration, poorly localized viral delivery with associated off-target effects, limited viral tropism, and immune safety concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Wang
- Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterials Research School of Engineering The Australian National University Canberra ACT 2601 Australia
| | - Kiara F. Bruggeman
- Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterials Research School of Engineering The Australian National University Canberra ACT 2601 Australia
| | - Stephanie Franks
- Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterials Research School of Engineering The Australian National University Canberra ACT 2601 Australia
| | - Vini Gautam
- Department of Biomedical Engineering The University of Melbourne Melbourne Victoria 3010 Australia
| | - Stuart I. Hodgetts
- School of Human Sciences The University of Western Australia Perth WA 6009 Australia
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science Perth WA 6009 Australia
| | - Alan R. Harvey
- School of Human Sciences The University of Western Australia Perth WA 6009 Australia
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science Perth WA 6009 Australia
| | - Richard J. Williams
- The Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation (IMPACT) School of Medicine Deakin University Waurn Ponds VIC 3216 Australia
- Biofab3D St. Vincent's Hospital Fitzroy 3065 Australia
| | - David R. Nisbet
- Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterials Research School of Engineering The Australian National University Canberra ACT 2601 Australia
- Biofab3D St. Vincent's Hospital Fitzroy 3065 Australia
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Thornburg CD. Etranacogene dezaparvovec for hemophilia B gene therapy. THERAPEUTIC ADVANCES IN RARE DISEASE 2021; 2:26330040211058896. [PMID: 37181105 PMCID: PMC10032433 DOI: 10.1177/26330040211058896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
The treatment landscape for hemophilia has been rapidly changing with introduction of novel therapies. Gene therapy for hemophilia is a promising therapeutic option for sustained endogenous factor production to mitigate the need for prophylactic treatment to prevent spontaneous and traumatic bleeding. Etranacogene dezaparvovec is an investigational factor IX (FIX) gene transfer product that utilizes the adeno-associated virus (AAV) 5 vector with a liver-specific promoter and a hyperactive FIX transgene. Here, the development of etranacogene dezaparvovec and available efficacy and safety data from clinical trials are reviewed. Overall, etranacogene dezaparvovec provides sustained FIX expression for more than 2 years and allows for a bleed and infusion-free life in the majority of patients. Safety, efficacy, and quality-of-life data will inform shared decision-making for patients who are considering gene therapy. Long-term follow-up regarding duration of expression and safety are crucial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Courtney D. Thornburg
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Rady Children’s
Hospital San Diego, 3020 Children’s Way, MC 5035, San Diego, CA 92123, USA.
Department of Pediatrics, UC San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA,
USA
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Current Status and Challenges Associated with CNS-Targeted Gene Delivery across the BBB. Pharmaceutics 2020; 12:pharmaceutics12121216. [PMID: 33334049 PMCID: PMC7765480 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics12121216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Revised: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The era of the aging society has arrived, and this is accompanied by an increase in the absolute numbers of patients with neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and Parkinson’s disease (PD). Such neurological disorders are serious costly diseases that have a significant impact on society, both globally and socially. Gene therapy has great promise for the treatment of neurological disorders, but only a few gene therapy drugs are currently available. Delivery to the brain is the biggest hurdle in developing new drugs for the central nervous system (CNS) diseases and this is especially true in the case of gene delivery. Nanotechnologies such as viral and non-viral vectors allow efficient brain-targeted gene delivery systems to be created. The purpose of this review is to provide a comprehensive review of the current status of the development of successful drug delivery to the CNS for the treatment of CNS-related disorders especially by gene therapy. We mainly address three aspects of this situation: (1) blood-brain barrier (BBB) functions; (2) adeno-associated viral (AAV) vectors, currently the most advanced gene delivery vector; (3) non-viral brain targeting by non-invasive methods.
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Rghei AD, van Lieshout LP, Santry LA, Guilleman MM, Thomas SP, Susta L, Karimi K, Bridle BW, Wootton SK. AAV Vectored Immunoprophylaxis for Filovirus Infections. Trop Med Infect Dis 2020; 5:tropicalmed5040169. [PMID: 33182447 PMCID: PMC7709665 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed5040169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Revised: 11/05/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Filoviruses are among the deadliest infectious agents known to man, causing severe hemorrhagic fever, with up to 90% fatality rates. The 2014 Ebola outbreak in West Africa resulted in over 28,000 infections, demonstrating the large-scale human health and economic impact generated by filoviruses. Zaire ebolavirus is responsible for the greatest number of deaths to date and consequently there is now an approved vaccine, Ervebo, while other filovirus species have similar epidemic potential and remain without effective vaccines. Recent clinical success of REGN-EB3 and mAb-114 monoclonal antibody (mAb)-based therapies supports further investigation of this treatment approach for other filoviruses. While efficacious, protection from passive mAb therapies is short-lived, requiring repeat dosing to maintain therapeutic concentrations. An alternative strategy is vectored immunoprophylaxis (VIP), which utilizes an adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector to generate sustained expression of selected mAbs directly in vivo. This approach takes advantage of validated mAb development and enables vectorization of the top candidates to provide long-term immunity. In this review, we summarize the history of filovirus outbreaks, mAb-based therapeutics, and highlight promising AAV vectorized approaches to providing immunity against filoviruses where vaccines are not yet available.
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Bucher K, Rodríguez-Bocanegra E, Dauletbekov D, Fischer MD. Immune responses to retinal gene therapy using adeno-associated viral vectors - Implications for treatment success and safety. Prog Retin Eye Res 2020; 83:100915. [PMID: 33069860 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2020.100915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Revised: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Recombinant adeno-associated virus (AAV) is the leading vector for gene therapy in the retina. As non-pathogenic, non-integrating, replication deficient vector, the recombinant virus efficiently transduces all key retinal cell populations. Successful testing of AAV vectors in clinical trials of inherited retinal diseases led to the recent approval of voretigene neparvovec (Luxturna) for the treatment of RPE65 mutation-associated retinal dystrophies. However, studies applying AAV-mediated retinal gene therapy independently reported intraocular inflammation and/or loss of efficacy after initial functional improvements. Both observations might be explained by targeted removal of transduced cells via anti-viral defence mechanisms. AAV has been shown to activate innate pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) such as toll-like receptor (TLR)-2 and TLR-9 resulting in the release of inflammatory cytokines and type I interferons. The vector can also induce capsid-specific and transgene-specific T cell responses and neutralizing anti-AAV antibodies which both limit the therapeutic effect. However, the target organ of retinal gene therapy, the eye, is known as an immune-privileged site. It is characterized by suppression of inflammation and promotion of immune tolerance which might prevent AAV-induced immune responses. This review evaluates AAV-related immune responses, toxicity and inflammation in studies of retinal gene therapy, identifies influencing variables of these responses and discusses potential strategies to modulate immune reactions to AAV vectors to increase the safety and efficacy of ocular gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsten Bucher
- University Eye Hospital, Centre for Ophthalmology, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany; Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Centre for Ophthalmology, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Eduardo Rodríguez-Bocanegra
- University Eye Hospital, Centre for Ophthalmology, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany; Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Centre for Ophthalmology, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Daniyar Dauletbekov
- University Eye Hospital, Centre for Ophthalmology, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany; Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Centre for Ophthalmology, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - M Dominik Fischer
- University Eye Hospital, Centre for Ophthalmology, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany; Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Centre for Ophthalmology, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany; Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK; Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
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Tomczyk M, Kraszewska I, Mąka R, Waligórska A, Dulak J, Jaźwa-Kusior A. Characterization of hepatic macrophages and evaluation of inflammatory response in heme oxygenase-1 deficient mice exposed to scAAV9 vectors. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0240691. [PMID: 33057437 PMCID: PMC7561190 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0240691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Adeno-associated viral (AAV) vectors are characterised by low immunogenicity, although humoral and cellular responses may be triggered upon infection. Following systemic administration high levels of vector particles accumulate within the liver. Kupffer cells (KCs) are liver resident macrophages and an important part of the liver innate immune system. Decreased functional activity of KCs can contribute to exaggerated inflammatory response upon antigen exposure. Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) deficiency is associated with considerably reduced numbers of KCs. In this study we aimed to investigate the inflammatory responses in liver and to characterise two populations of hepatic macrophages in adult wild type (WT) and HO-1 knockout (KO) mice following systemic administration of one or two doses (separated by 3 months) of self-complementary (sc)AAV9 vectors. At steady state, the livers of HO-1 KO mice contained significantly higher numbers of monocyte-derived macrophages (MDMs), but significantly less KCs than their WT littermates. Three days after re-administration of scAAV9 we observed increased mRNA level of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (Mcp-1) in the livers of both WT and HO-1 KO mice, but the protein level and the macrophage infiltration were not affected. Three days after the 1st and 3 days after the 2nd vector dose the numbers of AAV genomes in the liver were comparable between both genotypes indicating similar transduction efficiency, but the percentage of transgene-expressing MDMs and KCs was higher in WT than in HO-1 KO mice. In the primary culture, KCs were able to internalize AAV9 particles without induction of TLR9-mediated immune responses, but no transgene expression was observed. In conclusion, in vivo and in vitro cultured KCs have different susceptibility to scAAV9 vectors. Regardless of the presence or absence of HO-1 and initial numbers of KCs in the liver, scAAV9 exhibits a low potential to stimulate inflammatory response at the analysed time points.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mateusz Tomczyk
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
| | - Izabela Kraszewska
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
| | - Robert Mąka
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Waligórska
- Department of Cell Biophysics, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
| | - Józef Dulak
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Jaźwa-Kusior
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
- * E-mail:
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Salabarria SM, Nair J, Clement N, Smith BK, Raben N, Fuller DD, Byrne BJ, Corti M. Advancements in AAV-mediated Gene Therapy for Pompe Disease. J Neuromuscul Dis 2020; 7:15-31. [PMID: 31796685 PMCID: PMC7029369 DOI: 10.3233/jnd-190426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Pompe disease (glycogen storage disease type II) is caused by mutations in acid α-glucosidase (GAA) resulting in lysosomal pathology and impairment of the muscular and cardio-pulmonary systems. Enzyme replacement therapy (ERT), the only approved therapy for Pompe disease, improves muscle function by reducing glycogen accumulation but this approach entails several limitations including a short drug half-life and an antibody response that results in reduced efficacy. To address these limitations, new treatments such as gene therapy are under development to increase the intrinsic ability of the affected cells to produce GAA. Key components to gene therapy strategies include the choice of vector, promoter, and the route of administration. The efficacy of gene therapy depends on the ability of the vector to drive gene expression in the target tissue and also on the recipient's immune tolerance to the transgene protein. In this review, we discuss the preclinical and clinical studies that are paving the way for the development of a gene therapy strategy for patients with early and late onset Pompe disease as well as some of the challenges for advancing gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- S M Salabarria
- Department of Pediatrics and Powell Gene Therapy Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, Floria, USA
| | - J Nair
- Department of Pediatrics and Powell Gene Therapy Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, Floria, USA
| | - N Clement
- Department of Pediatrics and Powell Gene Therapy Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, Floria, USA
| | - B K Smith
- Department of Physical Therapy and Center for Respiratory Research and Rehabilitation, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - N Raben
- Laboratory of Protein Trafficking and Organelle Biology, Cell and Developmental Biology Center, National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - D D Fuller
- Department of Physical Therapy and Center for Respiratory Research and Rehabilitation, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - B J Byrne
- Department of Pediatrics and Powell Gene Therapy Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, Floria, USA
| | - M Corti
- Department of Pediatrics and Powell Gene Therapy Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, Floria, USA
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Biswas M, Marsic D, Li N, Zou C, Gonzalez-Aseguinolaza G, Zolotukhin I, Kumar SRP, Rana J, Butterfield JSS, Kondratov O, de Jong YP, Herzog RW, Zolotukhin S. Engineering and In Vitro Selection of a Novel AAV3B Variant with High Hepatocyte Tropism and Reduced Seroreactivity. MOLECULAR THERAPY-METHODS & CLINICAL DEVELOPMENT 2020; 19:347-361. [PMID: 33145371 PMCID: PMC7591349 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2020.09.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Limitations to successful gene therapy with adeno-associated virus (AAV) can comprise pre-existing neutralizing antibodies to the vector capsid that can block cellular entry, or inefficient transduction of target cells that can lead to sub-optimal expression of the therapeutic transgene. Recombinant serotype 3 AAV (AAV3) is an emerging candidate for liver-directed gene therapy. In this study, we integrated rational design by using a combinatorial library derived from AAV3B capsids with directed evolution by in vitro selection for liver-targeted AAV variants. The AAV3B-DE5 variant described herein was undetectable in the original viral library but gained a selective advantage upon in vitro passaging in human hepatocarcinoma spheroid cultures. AAV3B-DE5 contains 24 capsid amino acid substitutions compared with AAV3B, distributed among all five variable regions, with strong selective pressure on VR-IV, VR-V, and VR-VII. In vivo, AAV3B-DE5 demonstrated improved human hepatocyte tropism in a liver chimeric mouse model. Importantly, this variant exhibited reduced seroreactivity to human intravenous immunoglobulin (i.v. Ig), as well as individual serum samples from 100 healthy human donors. Therefore, molecular evolution using a combinatorial library platform generated a viral capsid with high hepatocyte tropism and enhanced evasion of pre-existing AAV neutralizing antibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moanaro Biswas
- Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Damien Marsic
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Cellular and Molecular Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA.,Porton Biologics, Building 3, Ascendas Park, No. 388 Xinping Street, Suzhou Industrial Park, Jiangsu 215021, China
| | - Ning Li
- Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Chenhui Zou
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA.,Laboratory of Virology and Infectious Disease, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | | | - Irene Zolotukhin
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Cellular and Molecular Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Sandeep R P Kumar
- Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Jyoti Rana
- Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - John S S Butterfield
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Cellular and Molecular Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Oleksandr Kondratov
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Cellular and Molecular Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Ype P de Jong
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Roland W Herzog
- Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Sergei Zolotukhin
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Cellular and Molecular Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
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Zhang F, Yan X, Li M, Hua B, Xiao X, Monahan PE, Sun J. Exploring the Potential Feasibility of Intra-Articular Adeno-Associated Virus-Mediated Gene Therapy for Hemophilia Arthropathy. Hum Gene Ther 2020; 31:448-458. [PMID: 32079420 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2019.355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Hemophilia arthropathy (HA) represents the majority of morbidity in severe hemophilia patients, especially in resource-limited countries. Adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated gene therapy is showing promise for managing hemophilia. However, patients with neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) against AAV, and inhibitors to clotting factors, are excluded from such therapy. This study explored the feasibility of AAV-mediated local gene therapy for HA. Factor VIII knockout (FVIII-/-) mice, with or without a FVIII inhibitor, were subjected to hemarthrosis induction and treated with either intravenous (IV) or intraarticular (IA) recombinant human factor VIII (rhFVIII). To investigate whether rhFVIII carried the risk to develop a FVIII inhibitor, FVIII-/- mice were treated with three doses of IV or IA rhFVIII and inhibitor development was measured. In patients with established HA requiring synovial fluid aspiration, plasma, and synovial fluid were collected and measured for anti-AAV capsid IgG (serotypes 1-9 and 843) and NAbs for AAV843. IA rhFVIII provided better protection from synovitis compared with IV rhFVIII, with or without the FVIII inhibitor. While IV rhFVIII led to all FVIII-/- mice developing an FVIII inhibitor (n = 31, median 4.9 Bethesda units [BU]/mL), only 50% of the mice developed a FVIII inhibitor by IA administration, and at a lower titer (median 0.55 BU/mL). In hemophilia patients, total anti-AAV IgG was lowest for AAV4 and AAV5, both in plasma and synovial fluid. Anti-AAV IgGs in synovial fluid for most samples were lower or similar to the plasma levels. These results show that direct IA rhFVIII administration yields better protection against bleeding-induced joint damage, even in the presence of an inhibitor antibody. IA rhFVIII delivery carried a lower risk of FVIII inhibitor formation compared with IV FVIII. The anti-AAV antibody level in synovial fluid was similar or lower than the plasma level, supporting the feasibility of local gene therapy for managing HA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feixu Zhang
- School of Bioengineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China.,School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaobo Yan
- Department of Hematology, Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Min Li
- School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Baolai Hua
- Department of Hematology, Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Xiao Xiao
- School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Paul E Monahan
- Gene Therapy Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina.,Harold R. Roberts Comprehensive Hemophilia Diagnosis and Treatment Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina.,Spark Therapeutics, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Junjiang Sun
- Gene Therapy Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina.,Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
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Verdera HC, Kuranda K, Mingozzi F. AAV Vector Immunogenicity in Humans: A Long Journey to Successful Gene Transfer. Mol Ther 2020; 28:723-746. [PMID: 31972133 PMCID: PMC7054726 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2019.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 335] [Impact Index Per Article: 83.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2019] [Accepted: 12/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Gene therapy with adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors has demonstrated safety and long-term efficacy in a number of trials across target organs, including eye, liver, skeletal muscle, and the central nervous system. Since the initial evidence that AAV vectors can elicit capsid T cell responses in humans, which can affect the duration of transgene expression, much progress has been made in understanding and modulating AAV vector immunogenicity. It is now well established that exposure to wild-type AAV results in priming of the immune system against the virus, with development of both humoral and T cell immunity. Aside from the neutralizing effect of antibodies, the impact of pre-existing immunity to AAV on gene transfer is still poorly understood. Herein, we review data emerging from clinical trials across a broad range of gene therapy applications. Common features of immune responses to AAV can be found, suggesting, for example, that vector immunogenicity is dose-dependent, and that innate immunity plays an important role in the outcome of gene transfer. A range of host-specific factors are also likely to be important, and a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms driving AAV vector immunogenicity in humans will be key to unlocking the full potential of in vivo gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena Costa Verdera
- Genethon and INSERM U951, 91000 Evry, France; Sorbonne Université and INSERM U974, 75013 Paris, France
| | | | - Federico Mingozzi
- Genethon and INSERM U951, 91000 Evry, France; Spark Therapeutics, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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48
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Utility of microminipigs for evaluating liver-mediated gene expression in the presence of neutralizing antibody against vector capsid. Gene Ther 2020; 27:427-434. [PMID: 32066928 PMCID: PMC7500982 DOI: 10.1038/s41434-020-0125-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2019] [Revised: 12/19/2019] [Accepted: 01/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors can transduce hepatocytes efficiently in vivo in various animal species, including humans. Few reports, however, have examined the utility of pigs in gene therapy. Pigs are potentially useful in preclinical studies because of their anatomical and physiological similarity to humans. Here, we evaluated the utility of microminipigs for liver-targeted gene therapy. These pigs were intravenously inoculated with an AAV8 vector encoding the luciferase gene, and gene expression was assessed by an in vivo imaging system. Robust transgene expression was observed almost exclusively in the liver, even though the pig showed a low-titer of neutralizing antibody (NAb) against the AAV8 capsid. We assessed the action of NAbs against AAV, which interfere with AAV vector-mediated gene transfer by intravascular delivery. When a standard dose of vector was administered intravenously, transgene expression was observed in both NAb-negative and low-titer (14×)-positive subjects, whereas gene expression was not observed in animals with higher titers (56×). These results are compatible with our previous observations using nonhuman primates, indicating that pigs are useful in gene therapy experiments, and that the role of low-titer NAb in intravenous administration of the AAV vector shows similarities across species.
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49
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Capsid-specific removal of circulating antibodies to adeno-associated virus vectors. Sci Rep 2020; 10:864. [PMID: 31965041 PMCID: PMC6972890 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-57893-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2019] [Accepted: 01/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Neutralizing antibodies directed against adeno-associated virus (AAV) are commonly found in humans. In seropositive subjects, vector administration is not feasible as antibodies neutralize AAV vectors even at low titers. Consequently, a relatively large proportion of humans is excluded from enrollment in clinical trials and, similarly, vector redosing is not feasible because of development of high-titer antibodies following AAV vector administration. Plasmapheresis has been proposed as strategy to remove anti-AAV antibodies from the bloodstream. Although safe and relatively effective, the technology has some limitations mainly related to the nonspecific removal of all circulating IgG. Here we developed an AAV-specific plasmapheresis column which was shown to efficiently and selectively deplete anti-AAV antibodies without depleting the total immunoglobulin pool from plasma. We showed the nearly complete removal of anti-AAV antibodies from high titer purified human IgG pools and plasma samples, decreasing titers to levels that allow AAV vector administration in mice. These results provide proof-of-concept of a method for the AAV-specific depletion of neutralizing antibodies in the setting of in vivo gene transfer.
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50
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García‐Olloqui P, Rodriguez‐Madoz JR, Di Scala M, Abizanda G, Vales Á, Olagüe C, Iglesias‐García O, Larequi E, Aguado‐Alvaro LP, Ruiz‐Villalba A, Prosper F, Gonzalez‐Aseguinolaza G, Pelacho B. Effect of heart ischemia and administration route on biodistribution and transduction efficiency of AAV9 vectors. J Tissue Eng Regen Med 2019; 14:123-134. [DOI: 10.1002/term.2974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2019] [Revised: 09/04/2019] [Accepted: 09/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Paula García‐Olloqui
- Regenerative Medicine DepartmentCenter for Applied Medical Research, University of Navarra Pamplona Spain
| | | | - Marianna Di Scala
- Gene Therapy DepartmentFoundation for Applied Medical Research Pamplona Spain
| | - Gloria Abizanda
- Regenerative Medicine DepartmentCenter for Applied Medical Research, University of Navarra Pamplona Spain
| | - África Vales
- Gene Therapy DepartmentFoundation for Applied Medical Research Pamplona Spain
| | - Cristina Olagüe
- Gene Therapy DepartmentFoundation for Applied Medical Research Pamplona Spain
| | - Olalla Iglesias‐García
- Regenerative Medicine DepartmentCenter for Applied Medical Research, University of Navarra Pamplona Spain
| | - Eduardo Larequi
- Regenerative Medicine DepartmentCenter for Applied Medical Research, University of Navarra Pamplona Spain
| | - Laura Pilar Aguado‐Alvaro
- Regenerative Medicine DepartmentCenter for Applied Medical Research, University of Navarra Pamplona Spain
| | - Adrián Ruiz‐Villalba
- Regenerative Medicine DepartmentCenter for Applied Medical Research, University of Navarra Pamplona Spain
| | - Felipe Prosper
- Regenerative Medicine DepartmentCenter for Applied Medical Research, University of Navarra Pamplona Spain
- Hematology and Cell Therapy DepartmentClínica Universidad de Navarra, University of Navarra Pamplona Spain
| | | | - Beatriz Pelacho
- Regenerative Medicine DepartmentCenter for Applied Medical Research, University of Navarra Pamplona Spain
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