1
|
Słyk Ż, Stachowiak N, Małecki M. Recombinant Adeno-Associated Virus Vectors for Gene Therapy of the Central Nervous System: Delivery Routes and Clinical Aspects. Biomedicines 2024; 12:1523. [PMID: 39062095 PMCID: PMC11274884 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12071523] [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: 04/19/2024] [Revised: 06/23/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The Central Nervous System (CNS) is vulnerable to a range of diseases, including neurodegenerative and oncological conditions, which present significant treatment challenges. The blood-brain barrier (BBB) restricts molecule penetration, complicating the achievement of therapeutic concentrations in the CNS following systemic administration. Gene therapy using recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) vectors emerges as a promising strategy for treating CNS diseases, demonstrated by the registration of six gene therapy products in the past six years and 87 ongoing clinical trials. This review explores the implementation of rAAV vectors in CNS disease treatment, emphasizing AAV biology and vector engineering. Various administration methods-such as intravenous, intrathecal, and intraparenchymal routes-and experimental approaches like intranasal and intramuscular administration are evaluated, discussing their advantages and limitations in different CNS contexts. Additionally, the review underscores the importance of optimizing therapeutic efficacy through the pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD) of rAAV vectors. A comprehensive analysis of clinical trials reveals successes and challenges, including barriers to commercialization. This review provides insights into therapeutic strategies using rAAV vectors in neurological diseases and identifies areas requiring further research, particularly in optimizing rAAV PK/PD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Żaneta Słyk
- Department of Applied Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland
- Laboratory of Gene Therapy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Natalia Stachowiak
- Department of Applied Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Maciej Małecki
- Department of Applied Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland
- Laboratory of Gene Therapy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Costine-Bartell BA, Martinez-Ramirez L, Normoyle K, Stinson T, Staley KJ, Lillis KP. 2-Photon imaging of fluorescent proteins in living swine. Sci Rep 2023; 13:14158. [PMID: 37644074 PMCID: PMC10465491 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-40638-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
A common point of failure in translation of preclinical neurological research to successful clinical trials comes in the giant leap from rodent models to humans. Non-human primates are phylogenetically close to humans, but cost and ethical considerations prohibit their widespread usage in preclinical trials. Swine have large, gyrencencephalic brains, which are biofidelic to human brains. Their classification as livestock makes them a readily accessible model organism. However, their size has precluded experiments involving intravital imaging with cellular resolution. Here, we present a suite of techniques and tools for in vivo imaging of porcine brains with subcellular resolution. Specifically, we describe surgical techniques for implanting a synthetic, flexible, transparent dural window for chronic optical access to the neocortex. We detail optimized parameters and methods for injecting adeno-associated virus vectors through the cranial imaging window to express fluorescent proteins. We introduce a large-animal 2-photon microscope that was constructed with off-the shelf components, has a gantry design capable of accommodating animals > 80 kg, and is equipped with a high-speed digitizer for digital fluorescence lifetime imaging. Finally, we delineate strategies developed to mitigate the substantial motion artifact that complicates high resolution imaging in large animals, including heartbeat-triggered high-speed image stack acquisition. The effectiveness of this approach is demonstrated in sample images acquired from pigs transduced with the chloride-sensitive fluorescent protein SuperClomeleon.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Beth A Costine-Bartell
- Department of Neurosurgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Luis Martinez-Ramirez
- Department of Neurosurgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kieran Normoyle
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Tawny Stinson
- Department of Neurosurgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kevin J Staley
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Kyle P Lillis
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Salegio EA, Hancock K, Korszen S. Pre-clinical delivery of gene therapy products to the cerebrospinal fluid: challenges and considerations for clinical translation. Front Mol Neurosci 2023; 16:1248271. [PMID: 37664241 PMCID: PMC10469667 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2023.1248271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
While the majority of gene therapy studies in neurological indications have focused on direct gene transfer to the central nervous system (CNS), there is growing interest in the delivery of therapeutics using the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) as a conduit. Historically, direct CNS routes-of-administration (RoAs) have relied on tissue dynamics, displacement of interstitial fluid, and regional specificity to achieve focal delivery into regions of interest, such as the brain. While intraparenchymal delivery minimizes peripheral organ exposure, one perceived drawback is the relative invasiveness of this approach to drug delivery. In this mini review, we examine the CSF as an alternative RoA to target CNS tissue and discuss considerations associated with the safety of performing such procedures, biodistribution of therapeutics following single administration, and translation of findings given differences between small and large animals. These factors will help delineate key considerations for translating data obtained from animal studies into clinical settings that may be useful in the treatment of neurological conditions.
Collapse
|
4
|
Costine-Bartell BA, Martinez-Ramirez L, Normoyle K, Stinson T, Staley KJ, Lillis KP. 2-Photon imaging of fluorescent proteins in living swine. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.02.14.528533. [PMID: 36824934 PMCID: PMC9949062 DOI: 10.1101/2023.02.14.528533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
A common point of failure in translation of preclinical neurological research to successful clinical trials comes in the giant leap from rodent models to humans. Non-human primates are phylogenetically close to humans, but cost and ethical considerations prohibit their widespread usage in preclinical trials. Swine have large, gyrencencephalic brains, which are biofidelic to human brains. Their classification as livestock makes them a readily accessible model organism. However, their size has precluded experiments involving intravital imaging with cellular resolution. Here, we present a suite of techniques and tools for in vivo imaging of porcine brains with subcellular resolution. Specifically, we describe surgical techniques for implanting a synthetic, flexible, transparent dural window for chronic optical access to the neocortex. We detail optimized parameters and methods for injecting adeno-associated virus vectors through the cranial imaging window to express fluorescent proteins. We introduce a large-animal 2-photon microscope that was constructed with off-the shelf components, has a gantry design capable of accommodating animals > 80 kg, and is equipped with a high-speed digitizer for digital fluorescence lifetime imaging. Finally, we delineate strategies developed to mitigate the substantial motion artifact that complicates high resolution imaging in large animals, including heartbeat-triggered high-speed image stack acquisition. The effectiveness of this approach is demonstrated in sample images acquired from pigs transduced with the chloride-sensitive fluorescent protein SuperClomeleon.
Collapse
|
5
|
Seven-year follow-up of durability and safety of AAV CNS gene therapy for a lysosomal storage disorder in a large animal. MOLECULAR THERAPY-METHODS & CLINICAL DEVELOPMENT 2021; 23:370-389. [PMID: 34761052 PMCID: PMC8550992 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2021.09.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Revised: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Delivery of adeno-associated viral vectors (AAVs) to cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) has emerged as a promising approach to achieve widespread transduction of the central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral nervous system (PNS), with direct applicability to the treatment of a wide range of neurological diseases, particularly lysosomal storage diseases. Although studies in small animal models have provided proof of concept and experiments in large animals demonstrated feasibility in bigger brains, there is not much information on long-term safety or durability of the effect. Here, we report a 7-year study in healthy beagle dogs after intra-CSF delivery of a single, clinically relevant dose (2 × 1013 vg/dog) of AAV9 vectors carrying the canine sulfamidase, the enzyme deficient in mucopolysaccharidosis type IIIA. Periodic monitoring of CSF and blood, clinical and neurological evaluations, and magnetic resonance and ultrasound imaging of target organs demonstrated no toxicity related to treatment. AAV9-mediated gene transfer resulted in detection of sulfamidase activity in CSF throughout the study. Analysis at tissue level showed widespread sulfamidase expression and activity in the absence of histological findings in any region of encephalon, spinal cord, or dorsal root ganglia. Altogether, these results provide proof of durability of expression and long-term safety for intra-CSF delivery of AAV-based gene transfer vectors encoding therapeutic proteins to the CNS.
Collapse
|
6
|
Nakamura S, Osaka H, Muramatsu SI, Takino N, Ito M, Jimbo EF, Watanabe C, Hishikawa S, Nakajima T, Yamagata T. Intra-cisterna magna delivery of an AAV vector with the GLUT1 promoter in a pig recapitulates the physiological expression of SLC2A1. Gene Ther 2021; 28:329-338. [PMID: 33077933 DOI: 10.1038/s41434-020-00203-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Revised: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Glucose transporter 1 deficiency syndrome (GLUT1DS) is caused by haplo-insufficiency of SLC2A1, which encodes GLUT1, resulting in impaired hexose transport into the brain. Previously, we generated a tyrosine-mutant AAV9/3 vector in which SLC2A1 was expressed under the control of the endogenous GLUT1 promoter (AAV-GLUT1), and confirmed the improved motor function and cerebrospinal fluid glucose levels of Glut1-deficient mice after cerebroventricular injection of AAV-GLUT1. In preparation for clinical application, we examined the expression of transgenes after intra-cisterna magna injection of AAV-GFP (tyrosine-mutant AAV9/3-GFP with the CMV promoter) and AAV-GLUT1. We injected AAV-GFP or AAV-GLUT1 (1.63 × 1012 vector genomes/kg) into the cisterna magna of pigs to compare differential promoter activity. After AAV-GFP injection, exogenous GFP was expressed in broad areas of the brain and peripheral organs. After AAV-GLUT1 injection, exogenous GLUT1 was expressed predominantly in the brain. At the cellular level, exogenous GLUT1 was mainly expressed in the endothelium, followed by glia and neurons, which was contrasted with the neuronal-predominant expression of GFP by the CMV promotor. We consider intra-cisterna magna injection of AAV-GLUT1 to be a feasible approach for gene therapy of GLUT1DS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sachie Nakamura
- Department of Pediatrics, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Osaka
- Department of Pediatrics, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan.
| | - Shin-Ichi Muramatsu
- Division of Neurological Gene Therapy, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan.,Center for Gene and Cell Therapy, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo City, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Naomi Takino
- Division of Neurological Gene Therapy, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Mika Ito
- Division of Neurological Gene Therapy, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Eriko F Jimbo
- Department of Pediatrics, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Chika Watanabe
- Department of Pediatrics, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Shuji Hishikawa
- Center for Development of Advanced Medical Technology, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Takeshi Nakajima
- Department of Neurosurgery, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
Marcó S, Haurigot V, Bosch F. In Vivo Gene Therapy for Mucopolysaccharidosis Type III (Sanfilippo Syndrome): A New Treatment Horizon. Hum Gene Ther 2020; 30:1211-1221. [PMID: 31482754 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2019.217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
For most lysosomal storage diseases (LSDs), there is no cure. Gene therapy is an attractive tool for treatment of LSDs caused by deficiencies in secretable lysosomal enzymes, in which neither full restoration of normal enzymatic activity nor transduction of all cells of the affected organ is necessary. However, some LSDs, such as mucopolysaccharidosis type III (MPSIII) diseases or Sanfilippo syndrome, represent a difficult challenge because patients suffer severe neurodegeneration with mild somatic alterations. The disease's main target is the central nervous system (CNS) and enzymes do not efficiently cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) even if present at very high concentration in circulation. No specific treatment has been approved for MPSIII. In this study, we discuss the adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector-mediated gene transfer strategies currently being developed for MPSIII disease. These strategies rely on local delivery of AAV vectors to the CNS either through direct intraparenchymal injection at several sites or through delivery to the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which bathes the whole CNS, or exploit the properties of certain AAV serotypes capable of crossing the BBB upon systemic administration. Although studies in small and large animal models of MPSIII diseases have provided evidence supporting the efficacy and safety of all these strategies, there are considerable differences between the different routes of administration in terms of procedure-associated risks, vector dose requirements, sensitivity to the effect of circulating neutralizing antibodies that block AAV transduction, and potential toxicity. Ongoing clinical studies should shed light on which gene transfer strategy leads to highest clinical benefits while minimizing risks. The development of all these strategies opens a new horizon for treatment of not only MPSIII and other LSDs but also of a wide range of neurological diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Marcó
- Center of Animal Biotechnology and Gene Therapy and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Virginia Haurigot
- Center of Animal Biotechnology and Gene Therapy and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Fatima Bosch
- Center of Animal Biotechnology and Gene Therapy and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Bellaterra, Spain.,CIBER de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas (CIBERDEM), Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Sorrentino NC, Cacace V, De Risi M, Maffia V, Strollo S, Tedesco N, Nusco E, Romagnoli N, Ventrella D, Huang Y, Liu N, Kalled SL, Choi VW, De Leonibus E, Fraldi A. Enhancing the Therapeutic Potential of Sulfamidase for the Treatment of Mucopolysaccharidosis IIIA. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2019; 15:333-342. [PMID: 31788497 PMCID: PMC6881609 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2019.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2019] [Accepted: 10/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Mucopolysaccharidosis type IIIA (MPS-IIIA) is a lysosomal storage disorder (LSD) caused by inherited defect of sulfamidase, a lysosomal sulfatase. MPS-IIIA is one of the most common and severe forms of LSDs with CNS involvement. Presently there is no cure. Here we have developed a new gene delivery approach for the treatment of MPS-IIIA based on the use of a modified version of sulfamidase expression cassette. This cassette encodes both a chimeric sulfamidase containing an alternative signal peptide (sp) to improve enzyme secretion and sulfatase-modifying factor 1 (SUMF1) to increase sulfamidase post-translational activation rate. We demonstrate that improved secretion and increased activation of sulfamidase act synergistically to enhance enzyme biodistribution in wild-type (WT) pigs upon intrathecal adeno-associated virus serotype 9 (AAV9)-mediated gene delivery. Translating such gene delivery strategy to a mouse model of MPS-IIIA results in a rescue of brain pathology, including memory deficit, as well as improvement in somatic tissues. These data may pave the way for developing effective gene delivery replacement protocols for the treatment of MPS-IIIA patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Vincenzo Cacace
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine, Via Campi Flegrei 34, Pozzuoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria De Risi
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine, Via Campi Flegrei 34, Pozzuoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Veronica Maffia
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine, Via Campi Flegrei 34, Pozzuoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Sandra Strollo
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine, Via Campi Flegrei 34, Pozzuoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Novella Tedesco
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine, Via Campi Flegrei 34, Pozzuoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Edoardo Nusco
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine, Via Campi Flegrei 34, Pozzuoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Noemi Romagnoli
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, Ozzano dell’Emilia, Bologna, Italy
| | - Domenico Ventrella
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, Ozzano dell’Emilia, Bologna, Italy
| | - Yan Huang
- Takeda Pharmaceuticals, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Nan Liu
- Takeda Pharmaceuticals, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | | | | | - Elvira De Leonibus
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine, Via Campi Flegrei 34, Pozzuoli, Naples, Italy
- Institute of Cellular Biology and Neurobiology (IBCN), National Research Council (CNR), Via Ramarini 32, Monterotondo, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Fraldi
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine, Via Campi Flegrei 34, Pozzuoli, Naples, Italy
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Naples “Federico II,” Naples, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Abstract
Mucopolysaccharidoses (MPS) are inborn errors of metabolism produced by a deficiency of one of the enzymes involved in the degradation of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). Although taken separately, each type is rare. As a group, MPS are relatively frequent, with an overall estimated incidence of around 1 in 20,000-25,000 births. Development of therapeutic options for MPS, including hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) and enzyme replacement therapy (ERT), has modified the natural history of many MPS types. In spite of the improvement in some tissues and organs, significant challenges remain unsolved, including blood-brain barrier (BBB) penetration and treatment of lesions in avascular cartilage, heart valves, and corneas. Newer approaches, such as intrathecal ERT, ERT with fusion proteins to cross the BBB, gene therapy, substrate reduction therapy (SRT), chaperone therapy, and some combination of these strategies may provide better outcomes for MPS patients in the near future. As early diagnosis and early treatment are imperative to improve therapeutic efficacy, the inclusion of MPS in newborn screening programs should enhance the potential impact of treatment in reducing the morbidity associated with MPS diseases. In this review, we evaluate available treatments, including ERT and HSCT, and future treatments, such as gene therapy, SRT, and chaperone therapy, and describe the advantages and disadvantages. We also assess the current clinical endpoints and biomarkers used in clinical trials.
Collapse
|
10
|
Fraldi A, Serafini M, Sorrentino NC, Gentner B, Aiuti A, Bernardo ME. Gene therapy for mucopolysaccharidoses: in vivo and ex vivo approaches. Ital J Pediatr 2018; 44:130. [PMID: 30442177 PMCID: PMC6238250 DOI: 10.1186/s13052-018-0565-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Mucopolysaccharidoses (MPS) are a group of lysosomal storage disorders caused by a deficiency in lysosomal enzymes catalyzing the stepwise degradation of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). The current therapeutic strategies of enzyme replacement therapy and allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation have been reported to reduce patient morbidity and to improve their quality of life, but they are associated with persistence of residual disease burden, in particular at the neurocognitive and musculoskeletal levels. This indicates the need for more efficacious treatments capable of effective and rapid enzyme delivery to the affected organs, especially the brain and the skeleton. Gene therapy (GT) strategies aimed at correcting the genetic defect in patient cells could represent a significant improvement for the treatment of MPS when compared with conventional approaches. While in-vivo GT strategies foresee the administration of viral vector particles directly to patients with the aim of providing normal complementary DNA to the affected cells, ex-vivo GT approaches are based on the ex-vivo transduction of patient cells that are subsequently infused back. This review provides insights into the state-of-art accomplishments made with in vivo and ex vivo GT-based approaches in MPS and provide a vision for the future in the medical community.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Fraldi
- Telethon Institute of Genetic and Medicine (TIGEM), Via Campi Flegrei, 34, Pozzuoli, Naples Italy
- Department of Medical and Translational Science, Federico II University, Via Pansini 5, Naples, 80131 Italy
| | - Marta Serafini
- Department of Pediatrics, Dulbecco Telethon Institute, Centro Ricerca M. Tettamanti, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | | | - Bernhard Gentner
- San Raffaele Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-TIGET), IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina, 60, 20123 Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandro Aiuti
- San Raffaele Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-TIGET), IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina, 60, 20123 Milan, Italy
- Unit of Pediatric Immunohematology and Stem Cell Program, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina, 60, 20123 Milan, Italy
- Vita Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Ester Bernardo
- San Raffaele Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-TIGET), IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina, 60, 20123 Milan, Italy
- Unit of Pediatric Immunohematology and Stem Cell Program, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina, 60, 20123 Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Barone F, Nannoni E, Elmi A, Lambertini C, Scorpio DG, Ventrella D, Vitali M, Maya-Vetencourt JF, Martelli G, Benfenati F, Bacci ML. Behavioral Assessment of Vision in Pigs. JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION FOR LABORATORY ANIMAL SCIENCE 2018; 57:350-356. [PMID: 29966544 DOI: 10.30802/aalas-jaalas-17-000163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Swine (Sus scrofa) are often the 'gold standard' laboratory animal for ophthalmology research due to the anatomic and physiologic similarities between the porcine and human eye and retina. Despite the importance of this model, few tools for behavioral vision assessment in pigs are available. The aim of this study was to identify and validate a feasible and reproducible behavioral test to assess vision in a pig model of photoreceptor degeneration. In addition, a robust behavioral test will reduce stress and enhance enrichment by allowing animals opportunities for environmental exploration and by reducing the number of invasive experimental procedures. Two distinct behavioral approaches were tested: the obstacle-course test and temperament test. In the obstacle-course test, pigs were challenged (after an initial training period) to navigate a 10-object obstacle course; time and the number of collisions with the objects were recorded. In the temperament test, the time needed for pigs to complete 3 different tasks (human-approach, novel-object, and open-door tests) was recorded. The obstacle-course test revealed significant differences in time and number of collisions between swine with vision impairment and control animals, and the training period proved to be pivotal to avoid bias due to individual animal characteristics. In contrast, the temperament test was not altered by vision impairment but was validated to measure stress and behavioral alterations in laboratory pigs undergoing experimental procedures, thus achieving marked refinement of the study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Barone
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Ozzano Emilia, Italy
| | - Eleonora Nannoni
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Ozzano Emilia, Italy
| | - Alberto Elmi
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Ozzano Emilia, Italy
| | - Carlotta Lambertini
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Ozzano Emilia, Italy
| | - Diana Gerardi Scorpio
- Vaccine Research Center, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Domenico Ventrella
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Ozzano Emilia, Italy;,
| | - Marika Vitali
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Ozzano Emilia, Italy
| | - José F Maya-Vetencourt
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy
| | - Giovanna Martelli
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Ozzano Emilia, Italy
| | - Fabio Benfenati
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy
| | - Maria L Bacci
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Ozzano Emilia, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Bailey RM, Armao D, Nagabhushan Kalburgi S, Gray SJ. Development of Intrathecal AAV9 Gene Therapy for Giant Axonal Neuropathy. MOLECULAR THERAPY-METHODS & CLINICAL DEVELOPMENT 2018; 9:160-171. [PMID: 29766026 PMCID: PMC5948230 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2018.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2017] [Accepted: 02/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
An NIH-sponsored phase I clinical trial is underway to test a potential treatment for giant axonal neuropathy (GAN) using viral-mediated GAN gene replacement (https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02362438). This trial marks the first instance of intrathecal (IT) adeno-associated viral (AAV) gene transfer in humans. GAN is a rare pediatric neurodegenerative disorder caused by autosomal recessive loss-of-function mutations in the GAN gene, which encodes the gigaxonin protein. Gigaxonin is involved in the regulation, turnover, and degradation of intermediate filaments (IFs). The pathologic signature of GAN is giant axonal swellings filled with disorganized accumulations of IFs. Herein, we describe the development and characterization of the AAV vector carrying a normal copy of the human GAN transgene (AAV9/JeT-GAN) currently employed in the clinical trial. Treatment with AAV/JeT-GAN restored the normal configuration of IFs in patient fibroblasts within days in cell culture and by 4 weeks in GAN KO mice. IT delivery of AAV9/JeT-GAN in aged GAN KO mice preserved sciatic nerve ultrastructure, reduced neuronal IF accumulations and attenuated rotarod dysfunction. This strategy conferred sustained wild-type gigaxonin expression across the PNS and CNS for at least 1 year in mice. These results support the clinical evaluation of AAV9/JeT-GAN for potential therapeutic outcomes and treatment for GAN patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rachel M Bailey
- Gene Therapy Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Diane Armao
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.,Department of Radiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | | | - Steven J Gray
- Gene Therapy Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.,Department of Ophthalmology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Sawamoto K, Chen HH, Alméciga-Díaz CJ, Mason RW, Tomatsu S. Gene therapy for Mucopolysaccharidoses. Mol Genet Metab 2018; 123:59-68. [PMID: 29295764 PMCID: PMC5986190 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymgme.2017.12.434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2017] [Revised: 12/20/2017] [Accepted: 12/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Mucopolysaccharidoses (MPS) are a group of lysosomal storage disorders (LSDs) caused by a deficiency of lysosomal enzymes, leading to a wide range of various clinical symptoms depending upon the type of MPS or its severity. Enzyme replacement therapy (ERT), hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), substrate reduction therapy (SRT), and various surgical procedures are currently available for patients with MPS. However, there is no curative treatment for this group of disorders. Gene therapy should be a one-time permanent therapy, repairing the cause of enzyme deficiency. Preclinical studies of gene therapy for MPS have been developed over the past three decades. Currently, clinical trials of gene therapy for some types of MPS are ongoing in the United States, some European countries, and Australia. Here, in this review, we summarize the development of gene therapy for MPS in preclinical and clinical trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kazuki Sawamoto
- Nemours/Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children, Wilmington, DE, United States
| | - Hui-Hsuan Chen
- Nemours/Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children, Wilmington, DE, United States; Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, United States
| | - Carlos J Alméciga-Díaz
- Institute for the Study of Inborn Errors of Metabolism, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá D.C., Colombia
| | - Robert W Mason
- Nemours/Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children, Wilmington, DE, United States
| | - Shunji Tomatsu
- Nemours/Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children, Wilmington, DE, United States; Department of Pediatrics, Gifu University, Gifu, Japan; Department of Pediatrics, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Hardcastle N, Boulis NM, Federici T. AAV gene delivery to the spinal cord: serotypes, methods, candidate diseases, and clinical trials. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2017; 18:293-307. [PMID: 29249183 DOI: 10.1080/14712598.2018.1416089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Adeno-associated viral (AAV) vector-mediated gene delivery to the spinal cord has finally entered the pathway towards regulatory approval. Phase 1 clinical trials using AAV gene therapy for pediatric disorders - spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) and giant axonal neuropathy (GAN) - are now underway. AREAS COVERED This review addresses the latest progress in the field of AAV gene delivery to the spinal cord, particularly focusing on the most prominent AAV serotypes and delivery methodologies to the spinal cord. Candidate diseases and scaling up experiments in large animals are also discussed. EXPERT OPINION Intravenous (IV) and intrathecal (IT) deliveries seem to undoubtedly be the preferred routes of administration for diffuse spinal cord delivery of therapeutic AAV vectors that can cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and correct inherited genetic disorders. Conversely, intraparenchymal delivery is still an undervalued but very viable approach for segmental therapy in afflictions such as ALS or Pompe Disease as a means to prevent respiratory dysfunction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nathan Hardcastle
- a Department of Neurosurgery , Emory University , Atlanta , GA , USA
| | - Nicholas M Boulis
- a Department of Neurosurgery , Emory University , Atlanta , GA , USA
| | - Thais Federici
- a Department of Neurosurgery , Emory University , Atlanta , GA , USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Age-Related 1H NMR Characterization of Cerebrospinal Fluid in Newborn and Young Healthy Piglets. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0157623. [PMID: 27391145 PMCID: PMC4938496 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0157623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2016] [Accepted: 06/02/2016] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
When it comes to neuroscience, pigs represent an important animal model due to their resemblance with humans’ brains for several patterns including anatomy and developmental stages. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is a relatively easy-to-collect specimen that can provide important information about neurological health and function, proving its importance as both a diagnostic and biomedical monitoring tool. Consequently, it would be of high scientific interest and value to obtain more standard physiological information regarding its composition and dynamics for both swine pathology and the refinement of experimental protocols. Recently, proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR) spectroscopy has been applied in order to analyze the metabolomic profile of this biological fluid, and results showed the technique to be highly reproducible and reliable. The aim of the present study was to investigate in both qualitative and quantitative manner the composition of Cerebrospinal Fluid harvested form healthy newborn (5 days old-P5) and young (30-P30 and 50-P50 days old) piglets using 1H NMR Spectroscopy, and to analyze any possible difference in metabolites concentration between age groups, related to age and Blood-Brain-Barrier maturation. On each of the analyzed samples, 30 molecules could be observed above their limit of quantification, accounting for 95–98% of the total area of the spectra. The concentrations of adenine, tyrosine, leucine, valine, 3-hydroxyvalerate, 3-methyl-2-oxovalerate were found to decrease between P05 and P50, while the concentrations of glutamine, creatinine, methanol, trimethylamine and myo-inositol were found to increase. The P05-P30 comparison was also significant for glutamine, creatinine, adenine, tyrosine, leucine, valine, 3-hydroxyisovalerate, 3-methyl-2-oxovalerate, while for the P30-P50 comparison we found significant differences for glutamine, myo-inositol, leucine and trimethylamine. None of these molecules showed at P30 concentrations outside the P05 –P50 range.
Collapse
|