1
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Wang F, Huang Y, Li J, Zhou W, Wang W. Targeted gene delivery systems for T-cell engineering. Cell Oncol (Dordr) 2024:10.1007/s13402-024-00954-6. [PMID: 38753155 DOI: 10.1007/s13402-024-00954-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
T lymphocytes are indispensable for the host systems of defense against pathogens, tumors, and environmental threats. The therapeutic potential of harnessing the cytotoxic properties of T lymphocytes for antigen-specific cell elimination is both evident and efficacious. Genetically engineered T-cells, such as those employed in CAR-T and TCR-T cell therapies, have demonstrated significant clinical benefits in treating cancer and autoimmune disorders. However, the current landscape of T-cell genetic engineering is dominated by strategies that necessitate in vitro T-cell isolation and modification, which introduce complexity and prolong the development timeline of T-cell based immunotherapies. This review explores the complexities of gene delivery systems designed for T cells, covering both viral and nonviral vectors. Viral vectors are known for their high transduction efficiency, yet they face significant limitations, such as potential immunogenicity and the complexities involved in large-scale production. Nonviral vectors, conversely, offer a safer profile and the potential for scalable manufacturing, yet they often struggle with lower transduction efficiency. The pursuit of gene delivery systems that can achieve targeted gene transfer to T cell without the need for isolation represents a significant advancement in the field. This review assesses the design principles and current research progress of such systems, highlighting the potential for in vivo gene modification therapies that could revolutionize T-cell based treatments. By providing a comprehensive analysis of these systems, we aim to contribute valuable insights into the future development of T-cell immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengling Wang
- Department of Biotherapy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, People's Republic of China
| | - Yong Huang
- Department of Biotherapy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, People's Republic of China
| | - JiaQian Li
- Department of Biotherapy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, People's Republic of China
| | - Weilin Zhou
- Department of Biotherapy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Biotherapy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, People's Republic of China.
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2
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Lee M, Guo Q, Kim M, Choi J, Segura A, Genceroglu A, LeBlanc L, Ramirez N, Jang YJ, Jang Y, Lee BK, Marcotte EM, Kim J. Systematic mapping of TF-mediated cell fate changes by a pooled induction coupled with scRNA-seq and multi-omics approaches. Genome Res 2024; 34:484-497. [PMID: 38580401 PMCID: PMC11067882 DOI: 10.1101/gr.277926.123] [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: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024]
Abstract
Transcriptional regulation controls cellular functions through interactions between transcription factors (TFs) and their chromosomal targets. However, understanding the fate conversion potential of multiple TFs in an inducible manner remains limited. Here, we introduce iTF-seq as a method for identifying individual TFs that can alter cell fate toward specific lineages at a single-cell level. iTF-seq enables time course monitoring of transcriptome changes, and with biotinylated individual TFs, it provides a multi-omics approach to understanding the mechanisms behind TF-mediated cell fate changes. Our iTF-seq study in mouse embryonic stem cells identified multiple TFs that trigger rapid transcriptome changes indicative of differentiation within a day of induction. Moreover, cells expressing these potent TFs often show a slower cell cycle and increased cell death. Further analysis using bioChIP-seq revealed that GCM1 and OTX2 act as pioneer factors and activators by increasing gene accessibility and activating the expression of lineage specification genes during cell fate conversion. iTF-seq has utility in both mapping cell fate conversion and understanding cell fate conversion mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muyoung Lee
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, USA
| | - Qingqing Guo
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, USA
| | - Mijeong Kim
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, USA
| | - Joonhyuk Choi
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, USA
| | - Alia Segura
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, USA
| | - Alper Genceroglu
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, USA
| | - Lucy LeBlanc
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, USA
| | - Nereida Ramirez
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, USA
| | - Yu Jin Jang
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, USA
| | - Yeejin Jang
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, USA
| | - Bum-Kyu Lee
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cancer Research Center, University at Albany, State University of New York, Rensselaer, New York 12144, USA
| | - Edward M Marcotte
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, USA
| | - Jonghwan Kim
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, USA;
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3
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Tian J, Tong D, Li Z, Wang E, Yu Y, Lv H, Hu Z, Sun F, Wang G, He M, Xia T. Mage transposon: a novel gene delivery system for mammalian cells. Nucleic Acids Res 2024; 52:2724-2739. [PMID: 38300794 PMCID: PMC10954464 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkae048] [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: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Transposons, as non-viral integration vectors, provide a secure and efficient method for stable gene delivery. In this study, we have discovered Mage (MG), a novel member of the piggyBac(PB) family, which exhibits strong transposability in a variety of mammalian cells and primary T cells. The wild-type MG showed a weaker insertion preference for near genes, transcription start sites (TSS), CpG islands, and DNaseI hypersensitive sites in comparison to PB, approaching the random insertion pattern. Utilizing in silico virtual screening and feasible combinatorial mutagenesis in vitro, we effectively produced the hyperactive MG transposase (hyMagease). This variant boasts a transposition rate 60% greater than its native counterpart without significantly altering its insertion pattern. Furthermore, we applied the hyMagease to efficiently deliver chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) into T cells, leading to stable high-level expression and inducing significant anti-tumor effects both in vitro and in xenograft mice models. These findings provide a compelling tool for gene transfer research, emphasizing its potential and prospects in the domains of genetic engineering and gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinghan Tian
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Doudou Tong
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | | | - Erqiang Wang
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Yifei Yu
- Elongevity Inc, Wuhan, Hubei 430000, China
| | - Hangya Lv
- Elongevity Inc, Wuhan, Hubei 430000, China
| | - Zhendan Hu
- Elongevity Inc, Wuhan, Hubei 430000, China
| | - Fang Sun
- Elongevity Inc, Wuhan, Hubei 430000, China
| | - Guoping Wang
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Min He
- Elongevity Inc, Wuhan, Hubei 430000, China
| | - Tian Xia
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
- School of Artificial Intelligence and Automation, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, China
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4
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Kovač A, Miskey C, Ivics Z. Sleeping Beauty Transposon Insertions into Nucleolar DNA by an Engineered Transposase Localized in the Nucleolus. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14978. [PMID: 37834425 PMCID: PMC10573994 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241914978] [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: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Transposons are nature's gene delivery vehicles that can be harnessed for experimental and therapeutic purposes. The Sleeping Beauty (SB) transposon shows efficient transposition and long-term transgene expression in human cells, and is currently under clinical development for gene therapy. SB transposition occurs into the human genome in a random manner, which carries a risk of potential genotoxic effects associated with transposon integration. Here, we evaluated an experimental strategy to manipulate SB's target site distribution by preferentially compartmentalizing the SB transposase to the nucleolus, which contains repetitive ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes. We generated a fusion protein composed of the nucleolar protein nucleophosmin (B23) and the SB100X transposase, which was found to retain almost full transposition activity as compared to unfused transposase and to be predominantly localized to nucleoli in transfected human cells. Analysis of transposon integration sites generated by B23-SB100X revealed a significant enrichment into the p-arms of chromosomes containing nucleolus organizing regions (NORs), with preferential integration into the p13 and p11.2 cytobands directly neighboring the NORs. This bias in the integration pattern was accompanied by an enrichment of insertions into nucleolus-associated chromatin domains (NADs) at the periphery of nucleolar DNA and into lamina-associated domains (LADs). Finally, sub-nuclear targeting of the transposase resulted in preferential integration into chromosomal domains associated with the Upstream Binding Transcription Factor (UBTF) that plays a critical role in the transcription of 47S rDNA gene repeats of the NORs by RNA Pol I. Future modifications of this technology may allow the development of methods for specific gene insertion for precision genetic engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Zoltán Ivics
- Transposition and Genome Engineering, Research Centre of the Division of Hematology, Gene and Cell Therapy, Paul Ehrlich Institute, Paul Ehrlich Str. 51–59, D-63225 Langen, Germany; (A.K.); (C.M.)
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5
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Rani R, Nayak M, Nayak B. Exploring the reprogramming potential of B cells and comprehending its clinical and therapeutic perspective. Transpl Immunol 2023; 78:101804. [PMID: 36921730 DOI: 10.1016/j.trim.2023.101804] [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: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023]
Abstract
Initiating from multipotent progenitors, the lineages extrapolated from hematopoietic stem cells are determined by transcription factors specific to each of them. The commitment factors assist in the differentiation of progenitor cells into terminally differentiated cells. B lymphocytes constitute a population of cells that expresses clonally diverse cell surface immunoglobulin (Ig) receptors specific to antigenic epitopes. B cells are a significant facet of the adaptive immune system. The secreted antibodies corresponding to the B cell recognize the antigens via the B cell receptor (BCR). Following antigen recognition, the B cell is activated and thereafter undergoes clonal expansion and proliferation to become memory B cells. The essence of 'cellular reprogramming' has aided in reliably altering the cells to desired tissue type. The potential of reprogramming has been harnessed to decipher and find solutions for various genetically inherited diseases and degenerative disorders. B lymphocytes can be reprogrammed to their initial naive state from where they get differentiated into any lineage or cell type similar to a pluripotent stem cell which can be accomplished by the deletion of master regulators of the B cell lineage. B cells can be reprogrammed into pluripotent stem cells and also can undergo transdifferentiation at the midway of cell differentiation to other cell types. Mandated expression of C/EBP in specialized B cells corresponds to their fast and effective reprogramming into macrophages, reversing the cell fate of these lymphocytes and allowing them to differentiate freshly into other types of cells. The co-expression of C/EBPα and OKSM (Oct4, Sox2, Klf4, c-Myc) amplified the reprogramming efficiency of B lymphocytes. Various human somatic cells including the immune cells are compliant to reprogramming which paves a path for opportunities like autologous tissue grafts, blood transfusion, and cancer immunotherapy. The ability to reprogram B cells offers an unprecedented opportunity for developing a therapeutic approach for several human diseases. Here, we will focus on all the proteins and transcription factors responsible for the developmental commitment of B lymphocytes and how it is harnessed in various applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reetika Rani
- Immunology and Molecular Medicine Laboratory, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, Odisha. 769008, India
| | - Madhusmita Nayak
- Immunology and Molecular Medicine Laboratory, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, Odisha. 769008, India
| | - Bismita Nayak
- Immunology and Molecular Medicine Laboratory, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, Odisha. 769008, India.
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6
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Jogalekar MP, Rajendran RL, Khan F, Dmello C, Gangadaran P, Ahn BC. CAR T-Cell-Based gene therapy for cancers: new perspectives, challenges, and clinical developments. Front Immunol 2022; 13:925985. [PMID: 35936003 PMCID: PMC9355792 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.925985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell therapy is a progressive new pillar in immune cell therapy for cancer. It has yielded remarkable clinical responses in patients with B-cell leukemia or lymphoma. Unfortunately, many challenges remain to be addressed to overcome its ineffectiveness in the treatment of other hematological and solidtumor malignancies. The major hurdles of CAR T-cell therapy are the associated severe life-threatening toxicities such as cytokine release syndrome and limited anti-tumor efficacy. In this review, we briefly discuss cancer immunotherapy and the genetic engineering of T cells and, In detail, the current innovations in CAR T-cell strategies to improve efficacy in treating solid tumors and hematologic malignancies. Furthermore, we also discuss the current challenges in CAR T-cell therapy and new CAR T-cell-derived nanovesicle therapy. Finally, strategies to overcome the current clinical challenges associated with CAR T-cell therapy are included as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manasi P. Jogalekar
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Ramya Lakshmi Rajendran
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Kyungpook National University Hospital, Daegu, South Korea
| | - Fatima Khan
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Crismita Dmello
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Prakash Gangadaran
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Kyungpook National University Hospital, Daegu, South Korea
- BK21 FOUR KNU Convergence Educational Program of Biomedical Sciences for Creative Future Talents, Department of Biomedical Science, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, South Korea
- *Correspondence: Prakash Gangadaran, ; Byeong-Cheol Ahn,
| | - Byeong-Cheol Ahn
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Kyungpook National University Hospital, Daegu, South Korea
- BK21 FOUR KNU Convergence Educational Program of Biomedical Sciences for Creative Future Talents, Department of Biomedical Science, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, South Korea
- *Correspondence: Prakash Gangadaran, ; Byeong-Cheol Ahn,
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7
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Ponomartsev SV, Sinenko SA, Tomilin AN. Human Artificial Chromosomes and Their Transfer to Target Cells. Acta Naturae 2022; 14:35-45. [PMID: 36348716 PMCID: PMC9611860 DOI: 10.32607/actanaturae.11670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Human artificial chromosomes (HACs) have been developed as genetic vectors with the capacity to carry large transgenic constructs or entire gene loci. HACs represent either truncated native chromosomes or de novo synthesized genetic constructs. The important features of HACs are their ultra-high capacity and ability to self-maintain as independent genetic elements, without integrating into host chromosomes. In this review, we discuss the development and construction methods, structural and functional features, as well as the areas of application of the main HAC types. Also, we address one of the most technically challenging and time-consuming steps in this technology - the transfer of HACs from donor to recipient cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- S. V. Ponomartsev
- Institute of Cytology Russian Academy of Sciences, St. Petersburg, 194064 Russia
| | - S. A. Sinenko
- Institute of Cytology Russian Academy of Sciences, St. Petersburg, 194064 Russia
| | - A. N. Tomilin
- Institute of Cytology Russian Academy of Sciences, St. Petersburg, 194064 Russia
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, 199034 Russia
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8
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Improvement of Sleeping Beauty Transposon System Enabling Efficient and Stable Protein Production. BIOTECHNOL BIOPROC E 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s12257-021-0231-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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9
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Moretti A, Ponzo M, Nicolette CA, Tcherepanova IY, Biondi A, Magnani CF. The Past, Present, and Future of Non-Viral CAR T Cells. Front Immunol 2022; 13:867013. [PMID: 35757746 PMCID: PMC9218214 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.867013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Adoptive transfer of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T lymphocytes is a powerful technology that has revolutionized the way we conceive immunotherapy. The impressive clinical results of complete and prolonged response in refractory and relapsed diseases have shifted the landscape of treatment for hematological malignancies, particularly those of lymphoid origin, and opens up new possibilities for the treatment of solid neoplasms. However, the widening use of cell therapy is hampered by the accessibility to viral vectors that are commonly used for T cell transfection. In the era of messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines and CRISPR/Cas (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat-CRISPR-associated) precise genome editing, novel and virus-free methods for T cell engineering are emerging as a more versatile, flexible, and sustainable alternative for next-generation CAR T cell manufacturing. Here, we discuss how the use of non-viral vectors can address some of the limitations of the viral methods of gene transfer and allow us to deliver genetic information in a stable, effective and straightforward manner. In particular, we address the main transposon systems such as Sleeping Beauty (SB) and piggyBac (PB), the utilization of mRNA, and innovative approaches of nanotechnology like Lipid-based and Polymer-based DNA nanocarriers and nanovectors. We also describe the most relevant preclinical data that have recently led to the use of non-viral gene therapy in emerging clinical trials, and the related safety and efficacy aspects. We will also provide practical considerations for future trials to enable successful and safe cell therapy with non-viral methods for CAR T cell generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex Moretti
- Tettamanti Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Milano-Bicocca/Fondazione Monza e Brianza per il Bambino e la sua Mamma (MBBM), Monza, Italy
| | - Marianna Ponzo
- Tettamanti Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Milano-Bicocca/Fondazione Monza e Brianza per il Bambino e la sua Mamma (MBBM), Monza, Italy
| | | | | | - Andrea Biondi
- Tettamanti Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Milano-Bicocca/Fondazione Monza e Brianza per il Bambino e la sua Mamma (MBBM), Monza, Italy
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Milano - Bicocca, Milan, Italy
- Clinica Pediatrica, University of Milano - Bicocca/Fondazione MBBM, Monza, Italy
| | - Chiara F. Magnani
- Tettamanti Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Milano-Bicocca/Fondazione Monza e Brianza per il Bambino e la sua Mamma (MBBM), Monza, Italy
- Department of Medical Oncology and Hematology, University Hospital Zurich and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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10
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Wei M, Mi CL, Jing CQ, Wang TY. Progress of Transposon Vector System for Production of Recombinant Therapeutic Proteins in Mammalian Cells. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:879222. [PMID: 35600890 PMCID: PMC9114503 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.879222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, mammalian cells have become the primary host cells for the production of recombinant therapeutic proteins (RTPs). Despite that the expression of RTPs in mammalian cells can be improved by directly optimizing or engineering the expression vectors, it is still influenced by the low stability and efficiency of gene integration. Transposons are mobile genetic elements that can be inserted and cleaved within the genome and can change their inserting position. The transposon vector system can be applied to establish a stable pool of cells with high efficiency in RTPs production through facilitating the integration of gene of interest into transcriptionally active sites under screening pressure. Here, the structure and optimization of transposon vector system and its application in expressing RTPs at high level in mammalian cells are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mian Wei
- School of Life Science and Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Recombinant Pharmaceutical Protein Expression System of Henan, Xinxiang, China
| | - Chun-Liu Mi
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Recombinant Pharmaceutical Protein Expression System of Henan, Xinxiang, China
| | - Chang-Qin Jing
- School of Life Science and Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
- *Correspondence: Chang-Qin Jing, ; Tian-Yun Wang,
| | - Tian-Yun Wang
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Recombinant Pharmaceutical Protein Expression System of Henan, Xinxiang, China
- *Correspondence: Chang-Qin Jing, ; Tian-Yun Wang,
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11
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Prommersberger S, Monjezi R, Botezatu L, Miskey C, Amberger M, Mestermann K, Hudecek M, Ivics Z. Generation of CAR-T Cells with Sleeping Beauty Transposon Gene Transfer. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2521:41-66. [PMID: 35732992 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2441-8_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Human T lymphocytes that transgenically express a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) have proven efficacy and safety in gene- and cell-based immunotherapy of certain hematological cancers. Appropriate gene vectors and methods of genetic engineering are required for therapeutic cell products to be biologically potent and their manufacturing to be economically viable. Transposon-based gene transfer satisfies these needs, and is currently being evaluated in clinical trials. In this protocol we describe the basic Sleeping Beauty (SB) transposon vector components required for stable gene integration in human cells, with special emphasis on minicircle DNA vectors and the use of synthetic mRNA. We provide a protocol for functional validation of the vector components in cultured human cell lines on the basis of fluorescent reporter gene expression. Finally, we provide a protocol for CAR-T cell engineering and describe assays that address transgene expression, biological potency and genomic vector copy numbers in polyclonal cell populations. Because transposons allow virus-free gene transfer with naked nucleic acids, the protocol can be adopted by any laboratory equipped with biological safety level S1 facilities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Razieh Monjezi
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | | | - Csaba Miskey
- Division of Medical Biotechnology, Paul Ehrlich Institute, Langen, Germany
| | | | - Katrin Mestermann
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Michael Hudecek
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Zoltán Ivics
- Division of Medical Biotechnology, Paul Ehrlich Institute, Langen, Germany.
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12
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Miskey C, Kesselring L, Querques I, Abrusán G, Barabas O, Ivics Z. OUP accepted manuscript. Nucleic Acids Res 2022; 50:2807-2825. [PMID: 35188569 PMCID: PMC8934666 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkac092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The Sleeping Beauty (SB) transposon system is a popular tool for genome engineering, but random integration into the genome carries a certain genotoxic risk in therapeutic applications. Here we investigate the role of amino acids H187, P247 and K248 in target site selection of the SB transposase. Structural modeling implicates these three amino acids located in positions analogous to amino acids with established functions in target site selection in retroviral integrases and transposases. Saturation mutagenesis of these residues in the SB transposase yielded variants with altered target site selection properties. Transposon integration profiling of several mutants reveals increased specificity of integrations into palindromic AT repeat target sequences in genomic regions characterized by high DNA bendability. The H187V and K248R mutants redirect integrations away from exons, transcriptional regulatory elements and nucleosomal DNA in the human genome, suggesting enhanced safety and thus utility of these SB variants in gene therapy applications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Irma Querques
- Structural and Computational Biology Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg 69117, Germany
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Zurich, Zurich 8057, Switzerland
| | - György Abrusán
- Institute of Biochemistry, Biological Research Center of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Szeged 6726, Hungary
| | - Orsolya Barabas
- Structural and Computational Biology Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg 69117, Germany
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Geneva, Geneva 1211, Switzerland
| | - Zoltán Ivics
- To whom correspondence should be addressed. Tel: +49 6103 77 6000; Fax: +49 6103 77 1280;
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13
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Arnaud M, Bobisse S, Chiffelle J, Harari A. The Promise of Personalized TCR-Based Cellular Immunotherapy for Cancer Patients. Front Immunol 2021; 12:701636. [PMID: 34394096 PMCID: PMC8363295 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.701636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutation-derived neoantigens are now established as attractive targets for cancer immunotherapy. The field of adoptive T cell transfer (ACT) therapy was significantly reshaped by tumor neoantigens and is now moving towards the genetic engineering of T cells with neoantigen-specific T cell receptors (TCRs). Yet, the identification of neoantigen-reactive TCRs remains challenging and the process needs to be adapted to clinical timelines. In addition, the state of recipient T cells for TCR transduction is critical and can affect TCR-ACT efficacy. Here we provide an overview of the main strategies for TCR-engineering, describe the selection and expansion of optimal carrier cells for TCR-ACT and discuss the next-generation methods for rapid identification of relevant TCR candidates for gene transfer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marion Arnaud
- Department of Oncology, Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research Lausanne, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
- Center of Experimental Therapeutics, Department of Oncology, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Sara Bobisse
- Department of Oncology, Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research Lausanne, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
- Center of Experimental Therapeutics, Department of Oncology, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Johanna Chiffelle
- Department of Oncology, Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research Lausanne, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
- Center of Experimental Therapeutics, Department of Oncology, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Alexandre Harari
- Department of Oncology, Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research Lausanne, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
- Center of Experimental Therapeutics, Department of Oncology, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland
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Sandoval-Villegas N, Nurieva W, Amberger M, Ivics Z. Contemporary Transposon Tools: A Review and Guide through Mechanisms and Applications of Sleeping Beauty, piggyBac and Tol2 for Genome Engineering. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22105084. [PMID: 34064900 PMCID: PMC8151067 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22105084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Revised: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Transposons are mobile genetic elements evolved to execute highly efficient integration of their genes into the genomes of their host cells. These natural DNA transfer vehicles have been harnessed as experimental tools for stably introducing a wide variety of foreign DNA sequences, including selectable marker genes, reporters, shRNA expression cassettes, mutagenic gene trap cassettes, and therapeutic gene constructs into the genomes of target cells in a regulated and highly efficient manner. Given that transposon components are typically supplied as naked nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) or recombinant protein, their use is simple, safe, and economically competitive. Thus, transposons enable several avenues for genome manipulations in vertebrates, including transgenesis for the generation of transgenic cells in tissue culture comprising the generation of pluripotent stem cells, the production of germline-transgenic animals for basic and applied research, forward genetic screens for functional gene annotation in model species and therapy of genetic disorders in humans. This review describes the molecular mechanisms involved in transposition reactions of the three most widely used transposon systems currently available (Sleeping Beauty, piggyBac, and Tol2), and discusses the various parameters and considerations pertinent to their experimental use, highlighting the state-of-the-art in transposon technology in diverse genetic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Zoltán Ivics
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-6103-77-6000; Fax: +49-6103-77-1280
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CARAMBA: a first-in-human clinical trial with SLAMF7 CAR-T cells prepared by virus-free Sleeping Beauty gene transfer to treat multiple myeloma. Gene Ther 2021; 28:560-571. [PMID: 33846552 PMCID: PMC8455317 DOI: 10.1038/s41434-021-00254-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Revised: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Clinical development of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T-cell therapy has been enabled by advances in synthetic biology, genetic engineering, clinical-grade manufacturing, and complex logistics to distribute the drug product to treatment sites. A key ambition of the CARAMBA project is to provide clinical proof-of-concept for virus-free CAR gene transfer using advanced Sleeping Beauty (SB) transposon technology. SB transposition in CAR-T engineering is attractive due to the high rate of stable CAR gene transfer enabled by optimized hyperactive SB100X transposase and transposon combinations, encoded by mRNA and minicircle DNA, respectively, as preferred vector embodiments. This approach bears the potential to facilitate and expedite vector procurement, CAR-T manufacturing and distribution, and the promise to provide a safe, effective, and economically sustainable treatment. As an exemplary and novel target for SB-based CAR-T cells, the CARAMBA consortium has selected the SLAMF7 antigen in multiple myeloma. SLAMF7 CAR-T cells confer potent and consistent anti-myeloma activity in preclinical assays in vitro and in vivo. The CARAMBA clinical trial (Phase-I/IIA; EudraCT: 2019-001264-30) investigates the feasibility, safety, and anti-myeloma efficacy of autologous SLAMF7 CAR-T cells. CARAMBA is the first clinical trial with virus-free CAR-T cells in Europe, and the first clinical trial that uses advanced SB technology worldwide.
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Magnani CF, Gaipa G, Lussana F, Belotti D, Gritti G, Napolitano S, Matera G, Cabiati B, Buracchi C, Borleri G, Fazio G, Zaninelli S, Tettamanti S, Cesana S, Colombo V, Quaroni M, Cazzaniga G, Rovelli A, Biagi E, Galimberti S, Calabria A, Benedicenti F, Montini E, Ferrari S, Introna M, Balduzzi A, Valsecchi MG, Dastoli G, Rambaldi A, Biondi A. Sleeping Beauty-engineered CAR T cells achieve antileukemic activity without severe toxicities. J Clin Invest 2020; 130:6021-6033. [PMID: 32780725 PMCID: PMC7598053 DOI: 10.1172/jci138473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUNDChimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell immunotherapy has resulted in complete remission (CR) and durable response in highly refractory patients. However, logistical complexity and high costs of manufacturing autologous viral products limit CAR T cell availability.METHODSWe report the early results of a phase I/II trial in B cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) patients relapsed after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) using donor-derived CD19 CAR T cells generated with the Sleeping Beauty (SB) transposon and differentiated into cytokine-induced killer (CIK) cells.RESULTSThe cellular product was produced successfully for all patients from the donor peripheral blood (PB) and consisted mostly of CD3+ lymphocytes with 43% CAR expression. Four pediatric and 9 adult patients were infused with a single dose of CAR T cells. Toxicities reported were 2 grade I and 1 grade II cytokine-release syndrome (CRS) cases at the highest dose in the absence of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), neurotoxicity, or dose-limiting toxicities. Six out of 7 patients receiving the highest doses achieved CR and CR with incomplete blood count recovery (CRi) at day 28. Five out of 6 patients in CR were also minimal residual disease negative (MRD-). Robust expansion was achieved in the majority of the patients. CAR T cells were measurable by transgene copy PCR up to 10 months. Integration site analysis showed a positive safety profile and highly polyclonal repertoire in vitro and at early time points after infusion.CONCLUSIONSB-engineered CAR T cells expand and persist in pediatric and adult B-ALL patients relapsed after HSCT. Antileukemic activity was achieved without severe toxicities.TRIAL REGISTRATIONClinicalTrials.gov NCT03389035.FUNDINGThis study was supported by grants from the Fondazione AIRC per la Ricerca sul Cancro (AIRC); Cancer Research UK (CRUK); the Fundación Científica de la Asociación Española Contra el Cáncer (FC AECC); Ministero Della Salute; Fondazione Regionale per la Ricerca Biomedica (FRRB).
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara F. Magnani
- Tettamanti Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Milano-Bicocca/Fondazione MBBM, Monza, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Gaipa
- Tettamanti Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Milano-Bicocca/Fondazione MBBM, Monza, Italy
- Laboratorio di Terapia Cellulare e Genica Stefano Verri, ASST-Monza, Ospedale San Gerardo, Monza, Italy
| | - Federico Lussana
- Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplant Unit, ASST Papa Giovanni XXIII, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Daniela Belotti
- Laboratorio di Terapia Cellulare e Genica Stefano Verri, ASST-Monza, Ospedale San Gerardo, Monza, Italy
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Milano–Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Gritti
- Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplant Unit, ASST Papa Giovanni XXIII, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Sara Napolitano
- Clinica Pediatrica, University of Milano-Bicocca/Fondazione MBBM, Monza, Italy
| | - Giada Matera
- Tettamanti Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Milano-Bicocca/Fondazione MBBM, Monza, Italy
- Laboratorio di Terapia Cellulare e Genica Stefano Verri, ASST-Monza, Ospedale San Gerardo, Monza, Italy
| | - Benedetta Cabiati
- Tettamanti Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Milano-Bicocca/Fondazione MBBM, Monza, Italy
- Laboratorio di Terapia Cellulare e Genica Stefano Verri, ASST-Monza, Ospedale San Gerardo, Monza, Italy
| | - Chiara Buracchi
- Tettamanti Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Milano-Bicocca/Fondazione MBBM, Monza, Italy
| | - Gianmaria Borleri
- Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplant Unit, ASST Papa Giovanni XXIII, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Grazia Fazio
- Tettamanti Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Milano-Bicocca/Fondazione MBBM, Monza, Italy
| | | | - Sarah Tettamanti
- Tettamanti Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Milano-Bicocca/Fondazione MBBM, Monza, Italy
| | - Stefania Cesana
- Tettamanti Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Milano-Bicocca/Fondazione MBBM, Monza, Italy
- Laboratorio di Terapia Cellulare e Genica Stefano Verri, ASST-Monza, Ospedale San Gerardo, Monza, Italy
| | - Valentina Colombo
- Tettamanti Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Milano-Bicocca/Fondazione MBBM, Monza, Italy
- Laboratorio di Terapia Cellulare e Genica Stefano Verri, ASST-Monza, Ospedale San Gerardo, Monza, Italy
| | - Michele Quaroni
- Tettamanti Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Milano-Bicocca/Fondazione MBBM, Monza, Italy
- Laboratorio di Terapia Cellulare e Genica Stefano Verri, ASST-Monza, Ospedale San Gerardo, Monza, Italy
| | - Giovanni Cazzaniga
- Tettamanti Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Milano-Bicocca/Fondazione MBBM, Monza, Italy
| | - Attilio Rovelli
- Clinica Pediatrica, University of Milano-Bicocca/Fondazione MBBM, Monza, Italy
| | - Ettore Biagi
- Tettamanti Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Milano-Bicocca/Fondazione MBBM, Monza, Italy
- Clinica Pediatrica, University of Milano-Bicocca/Fondazione MBBM, Monza, Italy
| | - Stefania Galimberti
- Bicocca Bioinformatics, Biostatistics and Bioimaging Centre, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano–Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Calabria
- San Raffaele Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-TIGET)/IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Benedicenti
- San Raffaele Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-TIGET)/IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Eugenio Montini
- San Raffaele Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-TIGET)/IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Silvia Ferrari
- Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplant Unit, ASST Papa Giovanni XXIII, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Martino Introna
- Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplant Unit, ASST Papa Giovanni XXIII, Bergamo, Italy
- USS Centro di Terapia Cellulare “G. Lanzani,” Bergamo, Italy
| | - Adriana Balduzzi
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Milano–Bicocca, Milan, Italy
- Clinica Pediatrica, University of Milano-Bicocca/Fondazione MBBM, Monza, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Valsecchi
- Bicocca Bioinformatics, Biostatistics and Bioimaging Centre, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano–Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Dastoli
- Tettamanti Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Milano-Bicocca/Fondazione MBBM, Monza, Italy
| | - Alessandro Rambaldi
- Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplant Unit, ASST Papa Giovanni XXIII, Bergamo, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hematology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Biondi
- Tettamanti Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Milano-Bicocca/Fondazione MBBM, Monza, Italy
- Laboratorio di Terapia Cellulare e Genica Stefano Verri, ASST-Monza, Ospedale San Gerardo, Monza, Italy
- Clinica Pediatrica, University of Milano-Bicocca/Fondazione MBBM, Monza, Italy
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Overhauling CAR T Cells to Improve Efficacy, Safety and Cost. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12092360. [PMID: 32825533 PMCID: PMC7564591 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12092360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Revised: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Gene therapy is now surpassing 30 years of clinical experience and in that time a variety of approaches has been applied for the treatment of a wide range of pathologies. While the promise of gene therapy was over-stated in the 1990’s, the following decades were met with polar extremes between demonstrable success and devastating setbacks. Currently, the field of gene therapy is enjoying the rewards of overcoming the hurdles that come with turning new ideas into safe and reliable treatments, including for cancer. Among these modalities, the modification of T cells with chimeric antigen receptors (CAR-T cells) has met with clear success and holds great promise for the future treatment of cancer. We detail a series of considerations for the improvement of the CAR-T cell approach, including the design of the CAR, routes of gene transfer, introduction of CARs in natural killer and other cell types, combining the CAR approach with checkpoint blockade or oncolytic viruses, improving pre-clinical models as well as means for reducing cost and, thus, making this technology more widely available. While CAR-T cells serve as a prime example of translating novel ideas into effective treatments, certainly the lessons learned will serve to accelerate the current and future development of gene therapy drugs.
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Moscoso CG, Steer CJ. The Evolution of Gene Therapy in the Treatment of Metabolic Liver Diseases. Genes (Basel) 2020; 11:genes11080915. [PMID: 32785089 PMCID: PMC7463482 DOI: 10.3390/genes11080915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Revised: 08/02/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Monogenic metabolic disorders of hepatic origin number in the hundreds, and for many, liver transplantation remains the only cure. Liver-targeted gene therapy is an attractive treatment modality for many of these conditions, and there have been significant advances at both the preclinical and clinical stages. Viral vectors, including retroviruses, lentiviruses, adenovirus-based vectors, adeno-associated viruses and simian virus 40, have differing safety, efficacy and immunogenic profiles, and several of these have been used in clinical trials with variable success. In this review, we profile viral vectors and non-viral vectors, together with various payloads, including emerging therapies based on RNA, that are entering clinical trials. Genome editing technologies are explored, from earlier to more recent novel approaches that are more efficient, specific and safe in reaching their target sites. The various curative approaches for the multitude of monogenic hepatic metabolic disorders currently at the clinical development stage portend a favorable outlook for this class of genetic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos G. Moscoso
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Correspondence: (C.G.M.); (C.J.S.); Tel.: +1-612-625-8999 (C.G.M. & C.J.S.); Fax: +1-612-625-5620 (C.G.M. & C.J.S.)
| | - Clifford J. Steer
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Correspondence: (C.G.M.); (C.J.S.); Tel.: +1-612-625-8999 (C.G.M. & C.J.S.); Fax: +1-612-625-5620 (C.G.M. & C.J.S.)
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Rotiroti MC, Buracchi C, Arcangeli S, Galimberti S, Valsecchi MG, Perriello VM, Rasko T, Alberti G, Magnani CF, Cappuzzello C, Lundberg F, Pande A, Dastoli G, Introna M, Serafini M, Biagi E, Izsvák Z, Biondi A, Tettamanti S. Targeting CD33 in Chemoresistant AML Patient-Derived Xenografts by CAR-CIK Cells Modified with an Improved SB Transposon System. Mol Ther 2020; 28:1974-1986. [PMID: 32526203 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2020.05.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2019] [Revised: 03/31/2020] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The successful implementation of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell therapy in the clinical context of B cell malignancies has paved the way for further development in the more critical setting of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Among the potentially targetable AML antigens, CD33 is insofar one of the main validated molecules. Here, we describe the feasibility of engineering cytokine-induced killer (CIK) cells with a CD33.CAR by using the latest optimized version of the non-viral Sleeping Beauty (SB) transposon system "SB100X-pT4." This offers the advantage of improving CAR expression on CIK cells, while reducing the amount of DNA transposase as compared to the previously employed "SB11-pT" version. SB-modified CD33.CAR-CIK cells exhibited significant antileukemic activity in vitro and in vivo in patient-derived AML xenograft models, reducing AML development when administered as an "early treatment" and delaying AML progression in mice with established disease. Notably, by exploiting an already optimized xenograft chemotherapy model that mimics human induction therapy in mice, we demonstrated for the first time that CD33.CAR-CIK cells are also effective toward chemotherapy resistant/residual AML cells, further supporting its future clinical development and implementation within the current standard regimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Caterina Rotiroti
- Tettamanti Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Milano-Bicocca/Fondazione MBBM, 20900 Monza, Italy
| | - Chiara Buracchi
- Tettamanti Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Milano-Bicocca/Fondazione MBBM, 20900 Monza, Italy
| | - Silvia Arcangeli
- Tettamanti Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Milano-Bicocca/Fondazione MBBM, 20900 Monza, Italy
| | - Stefania Galimberti
- Center of Biostatistics for Clinical Epidemiology, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano - Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Valsecchi
- Center of Biostatistics for Clinical Epidemiology, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano - Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Maria Perriello
- Tettamanti Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Milano-Bicocca/Fondazione MBBM, 20900 Monza, Italy; Università degli Studi di Perugia, 06123 Perugia, Italy
| | - Tamas Rasko
- Max-Delbrück-Centrum für Molekulare Medizin in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), 13125 Berlin, Germany
| | - Gaia Alberti
- Tettamanti Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Milano-Bicocca/Fondazione MBBM, 20900 Monza, Italy
| | - Chiara Francesca Magnani
- Tettamanti Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Milano-Bicocca/Fondazione MBBM, 20900 Monza, Italy
| | - Claudia Cappuzzello
- Tettamanti Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Milano-Bicocca/Fondazione MBBM, 20900 Monza, Italy
| | - Felix Lundberg
- Max-Delbrück-Centrum für Molekulare Medizin in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), 13125 Berlin, Germany; The Milner Centre for Evolution, University of Bath, BA2 7AY Bath, UK
| | - Amit Pande
- Max-Delbrück-Centrum für Molekulare Medizin in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), 13125 Berlin, Germany
| | - Giuseppe Dastoli
- Tettamanti Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Milano-Bicocca/Fondazione MBBM, 20900 Monza, Italy
| | - Martino Introna
- Center of Cellular Therapy "G. Lanzani," USC Ematologia ASST Papa Giovanni XXIII, 24124 Bergamo, Italy
| | - Marta Serafini
- Tettamanti Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Milano-Bicocca/Fondazione MBBM, 20900 Monza, Italy
| | - Ettore Biagi
- Tettamanti Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Milano-Bicocca/Fondazione MBBM, 20900 Monza, Italy
| | - Zsuzsanna Izsvák
- Max-Delbrück-Centrum für Molekulare Medizin in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), 13125 Berlin, Germany
| | - Andrea Biondi
- Tettamanti Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Milano-Bicocca/Fondazione MBBM, 20900 Monza, Italy.
| | - Sarah Tettamanti
- Tettamanti Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Milano-Bicocca/Fondazione MBBM, 20900 Monza, Italy
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20
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Magnani CF, Tettamanti S, Alberti G, Pisani I, Biondi A, Serafini M, Gaipa G. Transposon-Based CAR T Cells in Acute Leukemias: Where are We Going? Cells 2020; 9:cells9061337. [PMID: 32471151 PMCID: PMC7349235 DOI: 10.3390/cells9061337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2020] [Revised: 05/21/2020] [Accepted: 05/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy has become a new therapeutic reality for refractory and relapsed leukemia patients and is also emerging as a potential therapeutic option in solid tumors. Viral vector-based CAR T-cells initially drove these successful efforts; however, high costs and cumbersome manufacturing processes have limited the widespread clinical implementation of CAR T-cell therapy. Here we will discuss the state of the art of the transposon-based gene transfer and its application in CAR T immunotherapy, specifically focusing on the Sleeping Beauty (SB) transposon system, as a valid cost-effective and safe option as compared to the viral vector-based systems. A general overview of SB transposon system applications will be provided, with an update of major developments, current clinical trials achievements and future perspectives exploiting SB for CAR T-cell engineering. After the first clinical successes achieved in the context of B-cell neoplasms, we are now facing a new era and it is paramount to advance gene transfer technology to fully exploit the potential of CAR T-cells towards next-generation immunotherapy.
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21
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Wen W, Song S, Han Y, Chen H, Liu X, Qian Q. An efficient Screening System in Yeast to Select a Hyperactive piggyBac Transposase for Mammalian Applications. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21093064. [PMID: 32357554 PMCID: PMC7247424 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21093064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2020] [Revised: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 04/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
As non-viral transgenic vectors, the piggyBac transposon system represents an attractive tool for gene delivery to achieve a long-term gene expression in immunotherapy applications due to its large cargo capacity, its lack of a trace of transposon and of genotoxic potential, and its highly engineered structure. However, further improvements in transpose activity are required for industrialization and clinical applications. Herein, we established a one-plasmid effective screening system and a two-step high-throughput screening process in yeast to isolate hyperactive mutants for mammalian cell applications. By applying this screening system, 15 hyperactive piggyBac transposases that exhibited higher transpose activity compared with optimized hyPBase in yeast and four mutants that showed higher transpose activity in mammalian cells were selected among 3000 hyPBase mutants. The most hyperactive transposase, bz-hyPBase, with four mutation sites showed an ability to yield high-efficiency editing in Chinese hamster ovarian carcinoma (CHO) cells and T cells, indicating that they could be expanded for gene therapy approaches. Finally, we tested the potential of this screening system in other versions of piggyBac transposase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Wen
- Shanghai Cell Therapy Research Institute, Shanghai 201805, China; (W.W.); (S.S.); (Y.H.); (H.C.)
- Shanghai Cell Therapy Group, Shanghai 201805, China
| | - Shanshan Song
- Shanghai Cell Therapy Research Institute, Shanghai 201805, China; (W.W.); (S.S.); (Y.H.); (H.C.)
- Shanghai Cell Therapy Group, Shanghai 201805, China
| | - Yuchun Han
- Shanghai Cell Therapy Research Institute, Shanghai 201805, China; (W.W.); (S.S.); (Y.H.); (H.C.)
- Shanghai Cell Therapy Group, Shanghai 201805, China
| | - Haibin Chen
- Shanghai Cell Therapy Research Institute, Shanghai 201805, China; (W.W.); (S.S.); (Y.H.); (H.C.)
- Shanghai Cell Therapy Group, Shanghai 201805, China
| | - Xiangzhen Liu
- Shanghai Cell Therapy Research Institute, Shanghai 201805, China; (W.W.); (S.S.); (Y.H.); (H.C.)
- Shanghai Cell Therapy Group, Shanghai 201805, China
- Correspondence: (X.L.); (Q.Q.); Tel.: +86-021-5959-3168
| | - Qijun Qian
- Shanghai Cell Therapy Research Institute, Shanghai 201805, China; (W.W.); (S.S.); (Y.H.); (H.C.)
- Shanghai Cell Therapy Group, Shanghai 201805, China
- Correspondence: (X.L.); (Q.Q.); Tel.: +86-021-5959-3168
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Kesselring L, Miskey C, Zuliani C, Querques I, Kapitonov V, Laukó A, Fehér A, Palazzo A, Diem T, Lustig J, Sebe A, Wang Y, Dinnyés A, Izsvák Z, Barabas O, Ivics Z. A single amino acid switch converts the Sleeping Beauty transposase into an efficient unidirectional excisionase with utility in stem cell reprogramming. Nucleic Acids Res 2020; 48:316-331. [PMID: 31777924 PMCID: PMC6943129 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkz1119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2018] [Revised: 11/07/2019] [Accepted: 11/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The Sleeping Beauty (SB) transposon is an advanced tool for genetic engineering and a useful model to investigate cut-and-paste DNA transposition in vertebrate cells. Here, we identify novel SB transposase mutants that display efficient and canonical excision but practically unmeasurable genomic re-integration. Based on phylogenetic analyses, we establish compensating amino acid replacements that fully rescue the integration defect of these mutants, suggesting epistasis between these amino acid residues. We further show that the transposons excised by the exc+/int− transposase mutants form extrachromosomal circles that cannot undergo a further round of transposition, thereby representing dead-end products of the excision reaction. Finally, we demonstrate the utility of the exc+/int− transposase in cassette removal for the generation of reprogramming factor-free induced pluripotent stem cells. Lack of genomic integration and formation of transposon circles following excision is reminiscent of signal sequence removal during V(D)J recombination, and implies that cut-and-paste DNA transposition can be converted to a unidirectional process by a single amino acid change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Kesselring
- Transposition and Genome Engineering, Division of Medical Biotechnology, Paul Ehrlich Institute, Langen, Germany
| | - Csaba Miskey
- Transposition and Genome Engineering, Division of Medical Biotechnology, Paul Ehrlich Institute, Langen, Germany
| | - Cecilia Zuliani
- Structural and Computational Biology Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg 69117, Germany
| | - Irma Querques
- Structural and Computational Biology Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg 69117, Germany
| | - Vladimir Kapitonov
- Transposition and Genome Engineering, Division of Medical Biotechnology, Paul Ehrlich Institute, Langen, Germany
| | | | - Anita Fehér
- BioTalentum Ltd, Gödöllő, 2100 Gödöllő, Hungary
| | - Antonio Palazzo
- Department of Biology, University of Bari 'Aldo Moro', Italy
| | - Tanja Diem
- Transposition and Genome Engineering, Division of Medical Biotechnology, Paul Ehrlich Institute, Langen, Germany
| | - Janna Lustig
- Transposition and Genome Engineering, Division of Medical Biotechnology, Paul Ehrlich Institute, Langen, Germany
| | - Attila Sebe
- Transposition and Genome Engineering, Division of Medical Biotechnology, Paul Ehrlich Institute, Langen, Germany
| | - Yongming Wang
- Mobile DNA, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Zsuzsanna Izsvák
- Mobile DNA, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany
| | - Orsolya Barabas
- Structural and Computational Biology Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg 69117, Germany
| | - Zoltán Ivics
- Transposition and Genome Engineering, Division of Medical Biotechnology, Paul Ehrlich Institute, Langen, Germany
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23
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Potent CAR-T cells engineered with Sleeping Beauty transposon vectors display a central memory phenotype. Gene Ther 2020; 28:3-5. [PMID: 32139891 DOI: 10.1038/s41434-020-0138-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2019] [Revised: 02/20/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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24
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Chen W, Tan L, Zhou Q, Li W, Li T, Zhang C, Wu J. AAVS1 site-specific integration of the CAR gene into human primary T cells using a linear closed-ended AAV-based DNA vector. J Gene Med 2020; 22:e3157. [PMID: 31901177 DOI: 10.1002/jgm.3157] [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] [Received: 11/06/2019] [Revised: 12/31/2019] [Accepted: 12/31/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Use of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells has become a promising strategy in cancer immunotherapy. However, safety in clinical application is also one of the most controversial issues. METHODS In the present study, we investigated the application of a non-viral site-directed vector (CELiD [closed-ended linear duplex DNA]) dependent on adeno-associated virus (AAV) genomes for the purpose of safe CAR-T engineering. We co-electroporated CD19-CAR encoding "CELiD" vectors with plasmid pCMV-Rep into human T cells and ensured stably transfected CAR-T cells by G418 selection. The efficiency of AAVS1 site-specific integration was analyzed by a real-time polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS CAR-T cells engineered by CELiD vectors could be established within 20 days with up to 22.8% AAVS1 site-specific integration efficiency. CAR expression and cytokine secretion of CAR modified T cells were evaluated in vitro. Abundant effector cytokines were produced by the CAR-T cells engineered by CELiD vectors compared to control T cells and the killing efficiency of target cells was estimated to as high as 75% in vitro. CONCLUSIONS With the help of the AAV-derived CELiD vector, CAR genes were preferentially integrated into the AAVS1 site. This technology could be utilized in human T cell modification and remove the safety constraints of CAR-T therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Chen
- Suzhou Red Cross Blood Center, Suzhou, China
| | - Liang Tan
- School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | | | - WenSheng Li
- Aier School of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Taiming Li
- School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Chun Zhang
- Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, China
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25
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Wang Z, Li M, Ji Y, Yang M, Yang W, Wang J, Li W. Development of a novel bivalent baculovirus vectors for complement resistance and sustained transgene expression and its application in anti-angiogenesis gene therapy. Biomed Pharmacother 2019; 123:109765. [PMID: 31846843 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2019.109765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2019] [Revised: 12/05/2019] [Accepted: 12/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Baculovirus (BV) is a potential gene delivery vector but only mediates transient transgene expression and easily inactivated by human complement. To this end, we intend to develop a novel bivalent BV vector for complement resistance and sustained transgene expression, and evaluate its effect in anti-angiogenesis gene therapy. The results showed that the hybrid bivalent BV significantly prolonged the expression of enhanced green fluorescent protein (eGFP) in vitro for at least 90 days at over 109 a.u. total fluorescence intensity, and exhibited significantly higher complement resistance. The control BV-mediated eGFP expression gradually declined within 15 days and showed lower transduction efficiency. In vivo studies confirmed that the hybrid bivalent BV exhibited longer duration of eGFP expression and higher transduction efficacy than the control BVs. Based on these findings, we further constructed a hybrid BV expressing the antiangiogenic fusion protein containing human endostatin and angiostatin (hEA). The hybrid BV-expressed hEA significantly prolonged the expression level of hEA with enhanced anti-angiogenic activities compared to the control groups, as evidenced by ELISA, cell proliferation, migration and tubular formation assays. With the stable expression of hEA, the hybrid BV conferred hEA more significant inhibitory effect on hepatocellular carcinoma tumor growth and significantly extended the life span of mice. These data implicate that the SB-based BV surface display system may have broad prospects as a novel platform for gene therapy of tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhisheng Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, 750004, PR China; Laboratory Animal Center, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, 750004, PR China.
| | - Mengting Li
- School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, 750004, PR China
| | - Yonggan Ji
- School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, 750004, PR China
| | - Mengmeng Yang
- Laboratory Animal Center, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, 750004, PR China
| | - Wen Yang
- Laboratory Animal Center, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, 750004, PR China
| | - Jinbao Wang
- Laboratory Animal Center, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, 750004, PR China
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Urology, Shenzhen Longhua District Central Hospital, Shenzhen, 518110, PR China.
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26
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Benmebarek MR, Karches CH, Cadilha BL, Lesch S, Endres S, Kobold S. Killing Mechanisms of Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:E1283. [PMID: 30875739 PMCID: PMC6470706 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20061283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 260] [Impact Index Per Article: 52.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2019] [Revised: 03/07/2019] [Accepted: 03/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Effective adoptive T cell therapy (ACT) comprises the killing of cancer cells through the therapeutic use of transferred T cells. One of the main ACT approaches is chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy. CAR T cells mediate MHC-unrestricted tumor cell killing by enabling T cells to bind target cell surface antigens through a single-chain variable fragment (scFv) recognition domain. Upon engagement, CAR T cells form a non-classical immune synapse (IS), required for their effector function. These cells then mediate their anti-tumoral effects through the perforin and granzyme axis, the Fas and Fas ligand axis, as well as the release of cytokines to sensitize the tumor stroma. Their persistence in the host and functional outputs are tightly dependent on the receptor's individual components-scFv, spacer domain, and costimulatory domains-and how said component functions converge to augment CAR T cell performance. In this review, we bring forth the successes and limitations of CAR T cell therapy. We delve further into the current understanding of how CAR T cells are designed to function, survive, and ultimately mediate their anti-tumoral effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed-Reda Benmebarek
- Center of Integrated Protein Science Munich (CIPS-M) and Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine IV, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), 80337 Munich, Germany.
| | - Clara Helke Karches
- Center of Integrated Protein Science Munich (CIPS-M) and Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine IV, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), 80337 Munich, Germany.
| | - Bruno Loureiro Cadilha
- Center of Integrated Protein Science Munich (CIPS-M) and Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine IV, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), 80337 Munich, Germany.
| | - Stefanie Lesch
- Center of Integrated Protein Science Munich (CIPS-M) and Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine IV, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), 80337 Munich, Germany.
| | - Stefan Endres
- Center of Integrated Protein Science Munich (CIPS-M) and Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine IV, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), 80337 Munich, Germany.
| | - Sebastian Kobold
- Center of Integrated Protein Science Munich (CIPS-M) and Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine IV, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), 80337 Munich, Germany.
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27
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Scheuermann B, Diem T, Ivics Z, Andrade-Navarro MA. Evolution-guided evaluation of the inverted terminal repeats of the synthetic transposon Sleeping Beauty. Sci Rep 2019; 9:1171. [PMID: 30718656 PMCID: PMC6362248 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-38061-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2018] [Accepted: 12/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Sleeping Beauty (SB) is a synthetic Tc1/mariner transposon that is widely used for genetic engineering in vertebrates, including humans. Its sequence was derived from a consensus of sequences found in fish species including the Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar). One of the functional components of SB, the transposase enzyme, has been subject to extensive mutagenesis yielding hyperactive protein variants for advanced applications. The second functional component, the transposon inverted terminal repeats (ITRs), has so far not been extensively modified, mainly due to a lack of natural sequence information. Importantly, as genome sequences become available, they can provide a rich source of information for a refined molecular definition of the functional components of these transposons. Here we have mined the Salmo salar genome for a comprehensive set of transposon sequences that were used to build a refined consensus sequence. We synthetically produced the new consensus ITR sequences and used them to build a new transposon, the performance of which has been tested in cell-based transposition assays. The consensus sequence did not support enhanced transposition, suggesting alternative mechanisms responsible for the preferential amplification of these sequence variants in the salmon genome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Scheuermann
- Faculty of Biology, Johannes Gutenberg University of Mainz, 55128, Mainz, Germany
| | - Tanja Diem
- Division of Medical Biotechnology, Paul Ehrlich Institute, Langen, Germany
| | - Zoltán Ivics
- Division of Medical Biotechnology, Paul Ehrlich Institute, Langen, Germany.
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28
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Singer CM, Joy D, Jacobs DJ, Nesmelova IV. Rigidity and flexibility characteristics of DD[E/D]-transposases Mos1 and Sleeping Beauty. Proteins 2018; 87:313-325. [PMID: 30582767 DOI: 10.1002/prot.25653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2018] [Revised: 12/06/2018] [Accepted: 12/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
DD[E/D]-transposases catalyze the multistep reaction of cut-and-paste DNA transposition. Structurally, several DD[E/D]-transposases have been characterized, revealing a multi-domain structure with the catalytic domain possessing the RNase H-like structural motif that brings three catalytic residues (D, D, and E or D) into close proximity for the catalysis. However, the dynamic behavior of DD[E/D]-transposases during transposition remains poorly understood. Here, we analyze the rigidity and flexibility characteristics of two representative DD[E/D]-transposases Mos1 and Sleeping Beauty (SB) using the minimal distance constraint model (mDCM). We find that the catalytic domain of both transposases is globally rigid, with the notable exception of the clamp loop being flexible in the DNA-unbound form. Within this globally rigid structure, the central β-sheet of the RNase H-like motif is much less rigid in comparison to its surrounding α-helices, forming a cage-like structure. The comparison of the original SB transposase to its hyperactive version SB100X reveals the region where the change in flexibility/rigidity correlates with increased activity. This region is found to be within the RNase H-like structural motif and comprise the loop leading from beta-strand B3 to helix H1, helices H1 and H2, which are located on the same side of the central beta-sheet, and the loop between helix H3 and beta-strand B5. We further identify the RKEN214-217DAVQ mutations of the set of hyperactive mutations within the catalytic domain of SB transposase to be the driving factor that induces change in residue-pair rigidity correlations within SB transposase. Given that a signature RNase H-like structural motif is found in DD[E/D]-transposases and, more broadly, in a large superfamily of polynucleotidyl transferases, our results are relevant to these proteins as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher M Singer
- Department of Physics and Optical Science, University of North Carolina, Charlotte, North Carolina
| | - Diana Joy
- Department of Physics and Optical Science, University of North Carolina, Charlotte, North Carolina
| | - Donald J Jacobs
- Department of Physics and Optical Science, University of North Carolina, Charlotte, North Carolina.,Center for Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina, Charlotte, North Carolina
| | - Irina V Nesmelova
- Department of Physics and Optical Science, University of North Carolina, Charlotte, North Carolina.,Center for Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina, Charlotte, North Carolina
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29
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Hudecek M, Ivics Z. Non-viral therapeutic cell engineering with the Sleeping Beauty transposon system. Curr Opin Genet Dev 2018; 52:100-108. [PMID: 29957586 DOI: 10.1016/j.gde.2018.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2018] [Revised: 04/30/2018] [Accepted: 06/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Widespread treatment of human diseases with gene therapies necessitates the development of gene transfer vectors that integrate genetic information effectively, safely and economically. Indeed, significant efforts have been devoted to engineer novel tools that (i) achieve high-level stable gene transfer at low toxicity to the host cell; (ii) induce low levels of genotoxicity and possess a `safe' integration profile with a high proportion of integrations into safe genomic locations; and (iii) are associated with acceptable cost per treatment, and scalable/exportable vector production to serve large numbers of patients. Two decades after the discovery of the Sleeping Beauty (SB) transposon, it has been transformed into a vector system that is fulfilling these requirements. Here we review recent developments in vectorization of SB as a tool for gene therapy, and highlight clinical development of the SB system towards hematopoietic stem cell gene therapy and cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Hudecek
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik II, Universitätsklinikum Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Zoltán Ivics
- Division of Medical Biotechnology, Paul Ehrlich Institute, Langen, Germany.
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30
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Hodge R, Narayanavari SA, Izsvák Z, Ivics Z. Wide Awake and Ready to Move: 20 Years of Non-Viral Therapeutic Genome Engineering with the Sleeping Beauty Transposon System. Hum Gene Ther 2018; 28:842-855. [PMID: 28870121 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2017.130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Gene therapies will only become a widespread tool in the clinical treatment of human diseases with the advent of gene transfer vectors that integrate genetic information stably, safely, effectively, and economically. Two decades after the discovery of the Sleeping Beauty (SB) transposon, it has been transformed into a vector system that is fulfilling these requirements. SB may well overcome some of the limitations associated with viral gene transfer vectors and transient non-viral gene delivery approaches that are being used in the majority of ongoing clinical trials. The SB system has achieved a high level of stable gene transfer and sustained transgene expression in multiple primary human somatic cell types, representing crucial steps that may permit its clinical use in the near future. This article reviews the most important aspects of SB as a tool for gene therapy, including aspects of its vectorization and genomic integration. As an illustration, the clinical development of the SB system toward gene therapy of age-related macular degeneration and cancer immunotherapy is highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Russ Hodge
- 1 Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC) , Berlin, Germany
| | - Suneel A Narayanavari
- 1 Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC) , Berlin, Germany
| | - Zsuzsanna Izsvák
- 1 Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC) , Berlin, Germany
| | - Zoltán Ivics
- 2 Division of Medical Biotechnology, Paul Ehrlich Institute , Langen, Germany
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31
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Halim L, Ajina A, Maher J. Pre-clinical development of chimeric antigen receptor T-cell immunotherapy: Implications of design for efficacy and safety. Best Pract Res Clin Haematol 2018; 31:117-125. [PMID: 29909912 DOI: 10.1016/j.beha.2018.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2017] [Revised: 04/03/2018] [Accepted: 04/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Following the landmark approvals by the United States Food and Drug Administration, the adoptive transfer of CD19-directed chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cells has now entered mainstream clinical practice for patients with chemotherapy-resistant or refractory B-cell malignancies. These approvals have followed on from a prolonged period of pre-clinical evaluation, informing the design of clinical trials that have demonstrated unprecedented efficacy in this difficult to treat patient population. However, the delivery of autologous CAR-engineered T-cell therapy is complex, costly and not without significant risk. Here we summarize the key themes of CAR T-cell preclinical development and highlight a number of innovative strategies designed to further address toxicity and improve efficacy. In concert with the emerging promise of precision genome editing, it is hoped these next generation products will increase the repertoire of clinical applications of CAR T-cell therapy in malignant and perhaps other disease settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leena Halim
- King's College London, School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guy's Hospital, London, UK.
| | - Adam Ajina
- King's College London, School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guy's Hospital, London, UK.
| | - John Maher
- King's College London, School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guy's Hospital, London, UK; Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK; Department of Immunology, Eastbourne Hospital, East Sussex, UK.
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32
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D'Aloia MM, Zizzari IG, Sacchetti B, Pierelli L, Alimandi M. CAR-T cells: the long and winding road to solid tumors. Cell Death Dis 2018; 9:282. [PMID: 29449531 PMCID: PMC5833816 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-018-0278-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 272] [Impact Index Per Article: 45.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2017] [Revised: 12/18/2017] [Accepted: 12/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Adoptive cell therapy of solid tumors with reprogrammed T cells can be considered the “next generation” of cancer hallmarks. CAR-T cells fail to be as effective as in liquid tumors for the inability to reach and survive in the microenvironment surrounding the neoplastic foci. The intricate net of cross-interactions occurring between tumor components, stromal and immune cells leads to an ineffective anergic status favoring the evasion from the host’s defenses. Our goal is hereby to trace the road imposed by solid tumors to CAR-T cells, highlighting pitfalls and strategies to be developed and refined to possibly overcome these hurdles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Michela D'Aloia
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Luca Pierelli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Maurizio Alimandi
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
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33
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Kumaresan PR, da Silva TA, Kontoyiannis DP. Methods of Controlling Invasive Fungal Infections Using CD8 + T Cells. Front Immunol 2018; 8:1939. [PMID: 29358941 PMCID: PMC5766637 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.01939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2017] [Accepted: 12/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Invasive fungal infections (IFIs) cause high rates of morbidity and mortality in immunocompromised patients. Pattern-recognition receptors present on the surfaces of innate immune cells recognize fungal pathogens and activate the first line of defense against fungal infection. The second line of defense is the adaptive immune system which involves mainly CD4+ T cells, while CD8+ T cells also play a role. CD8+ T cell-based vaccines designed to prevent IFIs are currently being investigated in clinical trials, their use could play an especially important role in acquired immune deficiency syndrome patients. So far, none of the vaccines used to treat IFI have been approved by the FDA. Here, we review current and future antifungal immunotherapy strategies involving CD8+ T cells. We highlight recent advances in the use of T cells engineered using a Sleeping Beauty vector to treat IFIs. Recent clinical trials using chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy to treat patients with leukemia have shown very promising results. We hypothesized that CAR T cells could also be used to control IFI. Therefore, we designed a CAR that targets β-glucan, a sugar molecule found in most of the fungal cell walls, using the extracellular domain of Dectin-1, which binds to β-glucan. Mice treated with D-CAR+ T cells displayed reductions in hyphal growth of Aspergillus compared to the untreated group. Patients suffering from IFIs due to primary immunodeficiency, secondary immunodeficiency (e.g., HIV), or hematopoietic transplant patients may benefit from bioengineered CAR T cell therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pappanaicken R. Kumaresan
- Department of Pediatrics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Thiago Aparecido da Silva
- Department of Pediatrics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Dimitrios P. Kontoyiannis
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
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34
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Moghimi B, Barrett D. CAR T Cells for Solid Tumors. CURRENT STEM CELL REPORTS 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/s40778-017-0101-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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35
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Kebriaei P, Izsvák Z, Narayanavari SA, Singh H, Ivics Z. Gene Therapy with the Sleeping Beauty Transposon System. Trends Genet 2017; 33:852-870. [PMID: 28964527 DOI: 10.1016/j.tig.2017.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2017] [Revised: 08/24/2017] [Accepted: 08/31/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The widespread clinical implementation of gene therapy requires the ability to stably integrate genetic information through gene transfer vectors in a safe, effective, and economical manner. The latest generation of Sleeping Beauty (SB) transposon vectors fulfills these requirements, and may overcome limitations associated with viral gene transfer vectors and transient nonviral gene delivery approaches that are prevalent in ongoing clinical trials. The SB system enables high-level stable gene transfer and sustained transgene expression in multiple primary human somatic cell types, thereby representing a highly attractive gene transfer strategy for clinical use. Here, we review the most important aspects of using SB for gene therapy, including vectorization as well as genomic integration features. We also illustrate the path to successful clinical implementation by highlighting the application of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-modified T cells in cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Partow Kebriaei
- Department of Stem Cell Transplant and Cellular Therapy, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Zsuzsanna Izsvák
- Mobile DNA, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany
| | - Suneel A Narayanavari
- Mobile DNA, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany
| | - Harjeet Singh
- Department of Pediatrics, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Zoltán Ivics
- Division of Medical Biotechnology, Paul Ehrlich Institute, Langen, Germany.
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36
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Garcia-Garcia L, Recalde S, Hernandez M, Bezunartea J, Rodriguez-Madoz JR, Johnen S, Diarra S, Marie C, Izsvák Z, Ivics Z, Scherman D, Kropp M, Thumann G, Prosper F, Fernandez-Robredo P, Garcia-Layana A. Long-Term PEDF Release in Rat Iris and Retinal Epithelial Cells after Sleeping Beauty Transposon-Mediated Gene Delivery. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2017; 9:1-11. [PMID: 29246287 PMCID: PMC5583395 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2017.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2016] [Revised: 08/06/2017] [Accepted: 08/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Pigment epithelium derived factor (PEDF) is a potent antiangiogenic, neurotrophic, and neuroprotective molecule that is the endogenous inhibitor of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the retina. An ex vivo gene therapy approach based on transgenic overexpression of PEDF in the eye is assumed to rebalance the angiogenic-antiangiogenic milieu of the retina, resulting in growth regression of choroidal blood vessels, the hallmark of neovascular age-related macular degeneration. Here, we show that rat pigment epithelial cells can be efficiently transfected with the PEDF-expressing non-viral hyperactive Sleeping Beauty transposon system delivered in a form free of antibiotic resistance marker miniplasmids. The engineered retinal and iris pigment epithelium cells secrete high (141 ± 13 and 222 ± 14 ng) PEDF levels in 72 hr in vitro. In vivo studies showed cell survival and insert expression during at least 4 months. Transplantation of the engineered cells to the subretinal space of a rat model of choroidal neovascularization reduces almost 50% of the development of new vessels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Garcia-Garcia
- Experimental Ophthalmology Laboratory, University of Navarra, Navarra Institute for Health Research, IdiSNA, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Sergio Recalde
- Experimental Ophthalmology Laboratory, University of Navarra, Navarra Institute for Health Research, IdiSNA, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Maria Hernandez
- Experimental Ophthalmology Laboratory, University of Navarra, Navarra Institute for Health Research, IdiSNA, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Jaione Bezunartea
- Experimental Ophthalmology Laboratory, University of Navarra, Navarra Institute for Health Research, IdiSNA, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Juan Roberto Rodriguez-Madoz
- Cell Therapy Program, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra, Navarra Institute for Health Research, IdiSNA, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Sandra Johnen
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Pauwelsstraße 30, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Sabine Diarra
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Pauwelsstraße 30, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Corinne Marie
- CNRS, Unité de Technologies Chimiques et Biologiques pour la Santé (UTCBS) UMR 8258, 75006 Paris, France; Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne-Paris-Cité, UTCBS, 75006 Paris, France; Chimie ParisTech, PSL Research University, UTCBS, 75005 Paris, France; INSERM, UTCBS U 1022, 75006 Paris, France
| | - Zsuzsanna Izsvák
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Society, 13125 Berlin, Germany
| | - Zoltán Ivics
- Division of Medical Biotechnology, Paul Ehrlich Institute, 63225 Langen, Germany
| | - Daniel Scherman
- CNRS, Unité de Technologies Chimiques et Biologiques pour la Santé (UTCBS) UMR 8258, 75006 Paris, France; Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne-Paris-Cité, UTCBS, 75006 Paris, France; Chimie ParisTech, PSL Research University, UTCBS, 75005 Paris, France; INSERM, UTCBS U 1022, 75006 Paris, France
| | - Martina Kropp
- Experimental Ophthalmology, University of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland; Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospitals and School of Medicine, 22 Rue Alcide-Jentzer, Geneva 1205, Switzerland
| | - Gabriele Thumann
- Experimental Ophthalmology, University of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland; Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospitals and School of Medicine, 22 Rue Alcide-Jentzer, Geneva 1205, Switzerland
| | - Felipe Prosper
- Cell Therapy Program, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra, Navarra Institute for Health Research, IdiSNA, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; Area of Cell Therapy, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, University of Navarra, Navarra Institute for Health Research, IdiSNA, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Patricia Fernandez-Robredo
- Experimental Ophthalmology Laboratory, University of Navarra, Navarra Institute for Health Research, IdiSNA, 31008 Pamplona, Spain.
| | - Alfredo Garcia-Layana
- Experimental Ophthalmology Laboratory, University of Navarra, Navarra Institute for Health Research, IdiSNA, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; Ophthalmology Department, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
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Xue S, Yin J, Shao J, Yu Y, Yang L, Wang Y, Xie M, Fussenegger M, Ye H. A Synthetic-Biology-Inspired Therapeutic Strategy for Targeting and Treating Hepatogenous Diabetes. Mol Ther 2017; 25:443-455. [PMID: 28153094 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2016.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2016] [Revised: 11/11/2016] [Accepted: 11/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatogenous diabetes is a complex disease that is typified by the simultaneous presence of type 2 diabetes and many forms of liver disease. The chief pathogenic determinant in this pathophysiological network is insulin resistance (IR), an asymptomatic disease state in which impaired insulin signaling in target tissues initiates a variety of organ dysfunctions. However, pharmacotherapies targeting IR remain limited and are generally inapplicable for liver disease patients. Oleanolic acid (OA) is a plant-derived triterpenoid that is frequently used in Chinese medicine as a safe but slow-acting treatment in many liver disorders. Here, we utilized the congruent pharmacological activities of OA and glucagon-like-peptide 1 (GLP-1) in relieving IR and improving liver and pancreas functions and used a synthetic-biology-inspired design principle to engineer a therapeutic gene circuit that enables a concerted action of both drugs. In particular, OA-triggered short human GLP-1 (shGLP-1) expression in hepatogenous diabetic mice rapidly and simultaneously attenuated many disease-specific metabolic failures, whereas OA or shGLP-1 monotherapy failed to achieve corresponding therapeutic effects. Collectively, this work shows that rationally engineered synthetic gene circuits are capable of treating multifactorial diseases in a synergistic manner by multiplexing the targeting efficacies of single therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Xue
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Dongchuan Road 500, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Jianli Yin
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Dongchuan Road 500, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Jiawei Shao
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Dongchuan Road 500, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Yuanhuan Yu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Dongchuan Road 500, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Linfeng Yang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Dongchuan Road 500, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Yidan Wang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Dongchuan Road 500, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Mingqi Xie
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Dongchuan Road 500, Shanghai 200241, China; Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Mattenstrasse 26, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Martin Fussenegger
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Mattenstrasse 26, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Haifeng Ye
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Dongchuan Road 500, Shanghai 200241, China.
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Aronovich EL, Hyland KA, Hall BC, Bell JB, Olson ER, Rusten MU, Hunter DW, Ellinwood NM, McIvor RS, Hackett PB. Prolonged Expression of Secreted Enzymes in Dogs After Liver-Directed Delivery of Sleeping Beauty Transposons: Implications for Non-Viral Gene Therapy of Systemic Disease. Hum Gene Ther 2017; 28:551-564. [PMID: 28530135 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2017.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The non-viral, integrating Sleeping Beauty (SB) transposon system is efficient in treating systemic monogenic disease in mice, including hemophilia A and B caused by deficiency of blood clotting factors and mucopolysaccharidosis types I and VII caused by α-L-iduronidase (IDUA) and β-glucuronidase (GUSB) deficiency, respectively. Modified approaches of the hydrodynamics-based procedure to deliver transposons to the liver in dogs were recently reported. Using the transgenic canine reporter secreted alkaline phosphatase (cSEAP), transgenic protein in the plasma was demonstrated for up to 6 weeks post infusion. This study reports that immunosuppression of dogs with gadolinium chloride (GdCl3) prolonged the presence of cSEAP in the circulation up to 5.5 months after a single vector infusion. Transgene expression declined gradually but appeared to stabilize after about 2 months at approximately fourfold baseline level. Durability of transgenic protein expression in the plasma was inversely associated with transient increase of liver enzymes alanine transaminase and aspartate transaminase in response to the plasmid delivery procedure, which suggests a deleterious effect of hepatocellular toxicity on transgene expression. GdCl3 treatment was ineffective for repeat vector infusions. In parallel studies, dogs were infused with potentially therapeutic transposons. Activities of transgenic IDUA and GUSB in plasma peaked at 50-350% of wildtype, but in the absence of immunosuppression lasted only a few days. Transposition was detectable by excision assay only when the most efficient transposase, SB100X, was used. Dogs infused with transposons encoding canine clotting factor IX (cFIX) were treated with GdCl3 and showed expression profiles similar to those in cSEAP-infused dogs, with expression peaking at 40% wt (2 μg/mL). It is concluded that GdCl3 can support extended transgene expression after hydrodynamic introduction of SB transposons in dogs, but that alternative regimens will be required to achieve therapeutic levels of transgene products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena L Aronovich
- 1 Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development and Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota , Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | | | - Bryan C Hall
- 1 Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development and Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota , Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Jason B Bell
- 1 Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development and Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota , Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Erik R Olson
- 2 Discovery Genomics, Inc. , Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Myra Urness Rusten
- 3 Department of Radiology, University of Minnesota , Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - David W Hunter
- 3 Department of Radiology, University of Minnesota , Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | | | - R Scott McIvor
- 1 Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development and Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota , Minneapolis, Minnesota.,2 Discovery Genomics, Inc. , Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Perry B Hackett
- 1 Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development and Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota , Minneapolis, Minnesota.,2 Discovery Genomics, Inc. , Minneapolis, Minnesota
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Shali A, Rigi G, Pornour M, Ahmadian G. Expression and Secretion of Cyan Fluorescent Protein (CFP) in B. subtilis using the Chitinase Promoter from Bacillus pumilus SG2. IRANIAN BIOMEDICAL JOURNAL 2017; 21:240-8. [PMID: 28088132 PMCID: PMC5459939 DOI: 10.18869/acadpub.ibj.21.4.240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Background: Improved cyan fluorescent protein (ICFP) is a monochromic, green fluorescent protein (GFP) derivative produced by Aequorea macrodactyla in a process similar to GFP. This protein has strong absorption spectra at wavelengths 426-446 nm. ICFP can be used in cell, organelle or intracellular protein labeling, investigating the protein-protein interactions as well as assessing the promoter activities. Methods: In our previous study, the promoters of two chitinases (ChiS and ChiL) from Bacillus pumilus SG2 were assessed in B. subtilis and their regulatory elements were characterized. In the present study, icfp was cloned downstream of several truncated promoters obtained in the former study, and ICFP expression was evaluated in B. subtilis. Results: Extracellular expression and secretion of ICFP were analyzed under the control of different truncated versions of ChiSL promoters grown on different media. Results from SDS-PAGE and fluorimetric analyses showed that there were different expression rates of CFP; however, the UPChi-ICFP3 construct exhibited a higher level of expression and secretion in the culture medium. Conclusion: Our presented results revealed that inserting this truncated form of Chi promoter upstream of the ICFP, as a reporter gene, in B. subtilis led to an approximately ten fold increase in ICFP expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abbas Shali
- Department of Industrial and Environmental Biotechnology, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (NIGEB) , P.O. Box 14155-6343 , Tehran, Iran
| | - Garshasb Rigi
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Behbahan Khatam Alanbia University of Technology, Behbahan, Khuzestan, Iran
| | - Majid Pornour
- Medical Laser Research Center, Academic Center for Education, Culture and Research (ACECR), Tehran, Iran
| | - Gholamreza Ahmadian
- Department of Industrial and Environmental Biotechnology, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (NIGEB) , P.O. Box 14155-6343 , Tehran, Iran
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40
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Hudecek M, Izsvák Z, Johnen S, Renner M, Thumann G, Ivics Z. Going non-viral: the Sleeping Beauty transposon system breaks on through to the clinical side. Crit Rev Biochem Mol Biol 2017; 52:355-380. [PMID: 28402189 DOI: 10.1080/10409238.2017.1304354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Molecular medicine has entered a high-tech age that provides curative treatments of complex genetic diseases through genetically engineered cellular medicinal products. Their clinical implementation requires the ability to stably integrate genetic information through gene transfer vectors in a safe, effective and economically viable manner. The latest generation of Sleeping Beauty (SB) transposon vectors fulfills these requirements, and may overcome limitations associated with viral gene transfer vectors and transient non-viral gene delivery approaches that are prevalent in ongoing pre-clinical and translational research. The SB system enables high-level stable gene transfer and sustained transgene expression in multiple primary human somatic cell types, thereby representing a highly attractive gene transfer strategy for clinical use. Here we review several recent refinements of the system, including the development of optimized transposons and hyperactive SB variants, the vectorization of transposase and transposon as mRNA and DNA minicircles (MCs) to enhance performance and facilitate vector production, as well as a detailed understanding of SB's genomic integration and biosafety features. This review also provides a perspective on the regulatory framework for clinical trials of gene delivery with SB, and illustrates the path to successful clinical implementation by using, as examples, gene therapy for age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and the engineering of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-modified T cells in cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Hudecek
- a Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik II , Universitätsklinikum Würzburg , Würzburg , Germany
| | - Zsuzsanna Izsvák
- b Mobile DNA , Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC) , Berlin , Germany
| | - Sandra Johnen
- c Department of Ophthalmology , University Hospital RWTH Aachen , Aachen , Germany
| | - Matthias Renner
- d Division of Medical Biotechnology , Paul Ehrlich Institute , Langen, Germany
| | - Gabriele Thumann
- e Département des Neurosciences Cliniques Service d'Ophthalmologie , Hôpitaux Universitaires de Genève , Genève , Switzerland
| | - Zoltán Ivics
- d Division of Medical Biotechnology , Paul Ehrlich Institute , Langen, Germany
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41
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The Promise of Chimeric Antigen Receptor Engineered T Cells in the Treatment of Hematologic Malignancies. Cancer J 2016; 22:27-33. [PMID: 26841014 DOI: 10.1097/ppo.0000000000000166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Relapsed and refractory hematologic malignancies have a very poor prognosis. Chimeric antigen receptor T cells are emerging as a powerful therapy in this setting. Early clinical trials of genetically modified T cells for the treatment of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, and acute lymphoblastic leukemia have shown high complete response rates in patients with few therapeutic options. Exploration is ongoing for other hematologic malignancies including multiple myeloma, acute myeloid leukemia, and Hodgkin lymphoma (HL). At the same time, the design and production of chimeric antigen receptor T cells are being advanced so that this therapy can be more widely utilized. Cytokine release syndrome and neurotoxicity are common, but they are treatable and fully reversible. This review will review available data as well as future developments and challenges in the field.
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Abstract
DNA transposons are defined segments of DNA that are able to move from one genomic location to another. Movement is facilitated by one or more proteins, called the transposase, typically encoded by the mobile element itself. Here, we first provide an overview of the classification of such mobile elements in a variety of organisms. From a mechanistic perspective, we have focused on one particular group of DNA transposons that encode a transposase with a DD(E/D) catalytic domain that is topologically similar to RNase H. For these, a number of three-dimensional structures of transpososomes (transposase-nucleic acid complexes) are available, and we use these to describe the basics of their mechanisms. The DD(E/D) group, in addition to being the largest and most common among all DNA transposases, is the one whose members have been used for a wide variety of genomic applications. Therefore, a second focus of the article is to provide a nonexhaustive overview of transposon applications. Although several non-transposon-based approaches to site-directed genome modifications have emerged in the past decade, transposon-based applications are highly relevant when integration specificity is not sought. In fact, for many applications, the almost-perfect randomness and high frequency of integration make transposon-based approaches indispensable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison B. Hickman
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, United States
| | - Fred Dyda
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, United States
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Chira S, Jackson CS, Oprea I, Ozturk F, Pepper MS, Diaconu I, Braicu C, Raduly LZ, Calin GA, Berindan-Neagoe I. Progresses towards safe and efficient gene therapy vectors. Oncotarget 2016; 6:30675-703. [PMID: 26362400 PMCID: PMC4741561 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.5169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 134] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2015] [Accepted: 08/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The emergence of genetic engineering at the beginning of the 1970′s opened the era of biomedical technologies, which aims to improve human health using genetic manipulation techniques in a clinical context. Gene therapy represents an innovating and appealing strategy for treatment of human diseases, which utilizes vehicles or vectors for delivering therapeutic genes into the patients' body. However, a few past unsuccessful events that negatively marked the beginning of gene therapy resulted in the need for further studies regarding the design and biology of gene therapy vectors, so that this innovating treatment approach can successfully move from bench to bedside. In this paper, we review the major gene delivery vectors and recent improvements made in their design meant to overcome the issues that commonly arise with the use of gene therapy vectors. At the end of the manuscript, we summarized the main advantages and disadvantages of common gene therapy vectors and we discuss possible future directions for potential therapeutic vectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergiu Chira
- Research Center for Functional Genomics, Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Iuliu Haţieganu", Cluj Napoca, Romania
| | - Carlo S Jackson
- Department of Immunology and Institute for Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Iulian Oprea
- Department of Oncology and Pathology, Cancer Center Karolinska, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ferhat Ozturk
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Canik Başari University, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Michael S Pepper
- Department of Immunology and Institute for Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | | | - Cornelia Braicu
- Research Center for Functional Genomics, Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Iuliu Haţieganu", Cluj Napoca, Romania
| | - Lajos-Zsolt Raduly
- Research Center for Functional Genomics, Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Iuliu Haţieganu", Cluj Napoca, Romania.,Department of Physiopathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agricultural Science and Veterinary Medicine, Cluj Napoca, Romania
| | - George A Calin
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.,Center for RNA Interference and Non-Coding RNAs, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Ioana Berindan-Neagoe
- Research Center for Functional Genomics, Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Iuliu Haţieganu", Cluj Napoca, Romania.,Department of Immunology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Iuliu Haţieganu", Cluj Napoca, Romania.,Department of Functional Genomics and Experimental Pathology, Oncological Institute "Prof. Dr. Ion Chiricuţă", Cluj Napoca, Romania.,Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
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Construction and validation of an RNA trans-splicing molecule suitable to repair a large number of COL7A1 mutations. Gene Ther 2016; 23:775-784. [PMID: 27434145 PMCID: PMC5097067 DOI: 10.1038/gt.2016.57] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2016] [Revised: 06/22/2016] [Accepted: 07/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
RNA trans-splicing has become a versatile tool in the gene therapy of monogenetic diseases. This technique is especially valuable for the correction of mutations in large genes such as COL7A1, which underlie the dystrophic subtype of the skin blistering disease epidermolysis bullosa. Over 800 mutations spanning the entire length of the COL7A1 gene have been associated with defects in type VII collagen, leading to excessive fragility of epithelial tissues, the hallmark of dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (DEB). In the present study, we designed an RNA trans-splicing molecule (RTM) that is capable of repairing any given mutation within a 4200 nucleotide region spanning the 3′ half of COL7A1. The selected RTM, RTM28, was able to induce accurate trans-splicing into endogenous COL7A1 pre-mRNA transcripts in a type VII collagen-deficient DEB patient-derived cell line. Correct trans-splicing was detected at the RNA level by semiquantitative RT-PCR and correction of full-length type VII collagen was confirmed at the protein level by immunofluorescence and western blot analyses. Our results demonstrate that RTM28, which covers >60% of all mutations reported in DEB and is thus the longest RTM described so far for the repair of COL7A1, represents a promising candidate for therapeutic applications.
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45
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Morgan RA, Boyerinas B. Genetic Modification of T Cells. Biomedicines 2016; 4:biomedicines4020009. [PMID: 28536376 PMCID: PMC5344249 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines4020009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2016] [Revised: 04/11/2016] [Accepted: 04/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Gene transfer technology and its application to human gene therapy greatly expanded in the last decade. One area of investigation that appears particularly promising is the transfer of new genetic material into T cells for the potential treatment of cancer. Herein, we describe several core technologies that now yield high-efficiency gene transfer into primary human T cells. These gene transfer techniques include viral-based gene transfer methods based on modified Retroviridae and non-viral methods such as DNA-based transposons and direct transfer of mRNA by electroporation. Where specific examples are cited, we emphasize the transfer of chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) to T cells, which permits engineered T cells to recognize potential tumor antigens.
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46
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A Traceless Selection: Counter-selection System That Allows Efficient Generation of Transposon and CRISPR-modified T-cell Products. MOLECULAR THERAPY-NUCLEIC ACIDS 2016; 5:e298. [PMID: 27003756 PMCID: PMC5014455 DOI: 10.1038/mtna.2016.13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2015] [Accepted: 02/04/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Recent years have seen major breakthroughs in genome-engineering systems, such as transposon-mediated gene delivery systems and CRISPR-Cas9-mediated genome-editing tools. In these systems, transient expression of auxiliary genes is responsible for permanent genomic modification. For both systems, it would be valuable to select for cells that are likely to undergo stable genome modification. Importantly, in particular for clinical applications of genome-engineered cell products, it will also be of importance to remove those cells that, due to random vector integration, display an unwanted stable expression of the auxiliary gene. Here, we develop a traceless selection system that on the one hand allows efficient enrichment of modified cells, and on the other hand can be used to select against cells that retain expression of the auxiliary gene. The value of this system to produce highly enriched-auxiliary gene-free cell products is demonstrated.
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47
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Deniger DC, Pasetto A, Tran E, Parkhurst MR, Cohen CJ, Robbins PF, Cooper LJ, Rosenberg SA. Stable, Nonviral Expression of Mutated Tumor Neoantigen-specific T-cell Receptors Using the Sleeping Beauty Transposon/Transposase System. Mol Ther 2016; 24:1078-1089. [PMID: 26945006 DOI: 10.1038/mt.2016.51] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2015] [Accepted: 02/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Neoantigens unique to each patient's tumor can be recognized by autologous T cells through their T-cell receptor (TCR) but the low frequency and/or terminal differentiation of mutation-specific T cells in tumors can limit their utility as adoptive T-cell therapies. Transfer of TCR genes into younger T cells from peripheral blood with a high proliferative potential could obviate this problem. We generated a rapid, cost-effective strategy to genetically engineer cancer patient T cells with TCRs using the clinical Sleeping Beauty transposon/transposase system. Patient-specific TCRs reactive against HLA-A*0201-restriced neoantigens AHNAK(S2580F) or ERBB2(H473Y) or the HLA-DQB*0601-restricted neoantigen ERBB2IP(E805G) were assembled with murine constant chains and cloned into Sleeping Beauty transposons. Patient peripheral blood lymphocytes were coelectroporated with SB11 transposase and Sleeping Beauty transposon, and transposed T cells were enriched by sorting on murine TCRβ (mTCRβ) expression. Rapid expansion of mTCRβ(+) T cells with irradiated allogeneic peripheral blood lymphocytes feeders, OKT3, interleukin-2 (IL-2), IL-15, and IL-21 resulted in a preponderance of effector (CD27(-)CD45RA(-)) and less-differentiated (CD27(+)CD45RA(+)) T cells. Transposed T cells specifically mounted a polyfunctional response against cognate mutated neoantigens and tumor cell lines. Thus, Sleeping Beauty transposition of mutation-specific TCRs can facilitate the use of personalized T-cell therapy targeting unique neoantigens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Drew C Deniger
- Surgery Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Anna Pasetto
- Surgery Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Eric Tran
- Surgery Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Maria R Parkhurst
- Surgery Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Cyrille J Cohen
- Tumor Immunology and Immunotherapy, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Paul F Robbins
- Surgery Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Laurence Jn Cooper
- Division of Pediatrics, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA; ZIOPHARM Oncology, Inc., Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Steven A Rosenberg
- Surgery Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA.
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION This review presents recent developments in the use of nonviral vectors and transfer technologies in cancer gene therapy. Tremendous progress has been made in developing cancer gene therapy in ways that could be applicable to treatments. Numerous efforts are focused on methods of attacking known and novel targets more efficiently and specifically. In parallel to progress in nonviral vector design and delivery technologies, important achievements have been accomplished for suicide, gene replacement, gene suppression and immunostimulatory therapies. New nonviral cancer gene therapies have been developed based on emerging RNAi (si/shRNA-, miRNA) or ODN. AREAS COVERED This review provides an overview of recent gene therapeutic strategies in which nonviral vectors have been used experimentally and in clinical trials. Furthermore, we present current developments in nonviral vector systems in association with important chemical and physical gene delivery technologies and their potential for the future. EXPERT OPINION Nonviral gene therapy has maintained its position as an approach for treating cancer. This is reflected by the fact that more than 17% of all gene therapy trials employ nonviral approaches. Thus, nonviral vectors have emerged as a clinical alternative to viral vectors for the appropriate expression and delivery of therapeutic genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Pahle
- a Experimental and Clinical Research Center , Charité University Medicine Berlin and Max-Delbrück-Center for Moelcular Medicine , Berlin , Germany
| | - Wolfgang Walther
- a Experimental and Clinical Research Center , Charité University Medicine Berlin and Max-Delbrück-Center for Moelcular Medicine , Berlin , Germany
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Genome-wide Profiling Reveals Remarkable Parallels Between Insertion Site Selection Properties of the MLV Retrovirus and the piggyBac Transposon in Primary Human CD4(+) T Cells. Mol Ther 2016; 24:592-606. [PMID: 26755332 PMCID: PMC4786924 DOI: 10.1038/mt.2016.11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2015] [Accepted: 01/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The inherent risks associated with vector insertion in gene therapy need to be carefully assessed. We analyzed the genome-wide distributions of Sleeping Beauty (SB) and piggyBac (PB) transposon insertions as well as MLV retrovirus and HIV lentivirus insertions in human CD4+ T cells with respect to a panel of 40 chromatin states. The distribution of SB transposon insertions displayed the least deviation from random, while the PB transposon and the MLV retrovirus showed unexpected parallels across all chromatin states. Both MLV and PB insertions are enriched at transcriptional start sites (TSSs) and co-localize with BRD4-associated sites. We demonstrate physical interaction between the PB transposase and bromodomain and extraterminal domain proteins (including BRD4), suggesting convergent evolution of a tethering mechanism that directs integrating genetic elements into TSSs. We detect unequal biases across the four systems with respect to targeting genes whose deregulation has been previously linked to serious adverse events in gene therapy clinical trials. The SB transposon has the highest theoretical chance of targeting a safe harbor locus in the human genome. The data underscore the significance of vector choice to reduce the mutagenic load on cells in clinical applications.
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50
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Tolstyka Z, Phillips H, Cortez M, Wu Y, Ingle N, Bell JB, Hackett PB, Reineke TM. Trehalose-Based Block Copolycations Promote Polyplex Stabilization for Lyophilization and in Vivo pDNA Delivery. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2016; 2:43-55. [PMID: 26807438 PMCID: PMC4710891 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.5b00312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2015] [Accepted: 11/20/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The development and thorough characterization of nonviral delivery agents for nucleic acid and genome editing therapies are of high interest to the field of nanomedicine. Indeed, this vehicle class offers the ability to tune chemical architecture/biological activity and readily package nucleic acids of various sizes and morphologies for a variety of applications. Herein, we present the synthesis and characterization of a class of trehalose-based block copolycations designed to stabilize polyplex formulations for lyophilization and in vivo administration. A 6-methacrylamido-6-deoxy trehalose (MAT) monomer was synthesized from trehalose and polymerized via reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization to yield pMAT43. The pMAT43 macro-chain transfer agent was then chain-extended with aminoethylmethacrylamide (AEMA) to yield three different pMAT-b-AEMA cationic-block copolymers, pMAT-b-AEMA-1 (21 AEMA repeats), -2 (44 AEMA repeats), and -3 (57 AEMA repeats). These polymers along with a series of controls were used to form polyplexes with plasmids encoding firefly luciferase behind a strong ubiquitous promoter. The trehalose-coated polyplexes were characterized in detail and found to be resistant to colloidal aggregation in culture media containing salt and serum. The trehalose-polyplexes also retained colloidal stability and promoted high gene expression following lyophilization and reconstitution. Cytotoxicity, cellular uptake, and transfection ability were assessed in vitro using both human glioblastoma (U87) and human liver carcinoma (HepG2) cell lines wherein pMAT-b-AEMA-2 was found to have the optimal combination of high gene expression and low toxicity. pMAT-b-AEMA-2 polyplexes were evaluated in mice via slow tail vein infusion. The vehicle displayed minimal toxicity and discouraged nonspecific internalization in the liver, kidney, spleen, and lungs as determined by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and fluorescence imaging experiments. Hydrodynamic infusion of the polyplexes, however, led to very specific localization of the polyplexes to the mouse liver and promoted excellent gene expression in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary
P. Tolstyka
- Department
of Chemistry and Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota, 207 Pleasant Street SE, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Haley Phillips
- Department
of Chemistry and Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota, 207 Pleasant Street SE, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Mallory Cortez
- Department
of Chemistry and Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota, 207 Pleasant Street SE, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Yaoying Wu
- Department
of Chemistry and Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota, 207 Pleasant Street SE, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Nilesh Ingle
- Department
of Chemistry and Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota, 207 Pleasant Street SE, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Jason B. Bell
- Department
of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development, and Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Perry B. Hackett
- Department
of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development, and Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Theresa M. Reineke
- Department
of Chemistry and Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota, 207 Pleasant Street SE, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
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