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Araujo VG, Dias MS, Hauswirth WW, Linden R, Petrs-Silva H. rAAV-compatible human mini promoters enhance transgene expression in rat retinal ganglion cells. Exp Eye Res 2024; 239:109758. [PMID: 38123011 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2023.109758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Recombinant adeno-associated viral vectors (rAAV) are the safest and most effective gene delivery platform to drive the treatment of many inherited eye disorders in well-characterized animal models. The use in rAAV of ubiquitous promoters derived from viral sequences such as CMV/CBA (chicken β-actin promoter with cytomegalovirus enhancer) can lead to unwanted side effects such as pro-inflammatory immune responses and retinal cytotoxicity, thus reducing therapy efficacy. Thus, an advance in gene therapy is the availability of small promoters, that potentiate and direct gene expression to the cell type of interest, with higher safety and efficacy. In this study, we used six human mini-promoters packaged in rAAV2 quadruple mutant (Y-F) to test for transduction of the rat retina after intravitreal injection. After four weeks, immunohistochemical analysis detected GFP-labeled cells in the ganglion cell layer (GCL) for all constructs tested. Among them, Ple25sh1, Ple25sh2 and Ple53 promoted a widespread reporter-transgene expression in the GCL, with an increased number of GFP-expressing retinal ganglion cells when compared with the CMV/CBA vector. Moreover, Ple53 provided the strongest levels of GFP fluorescence in both cell soma and axons of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) without any detectable adverse effects in retina function. Remarkably, a nearly 50-fold reduction in the number of intravitreally injected vector particles containing Ple53 promoter, still attained levels of transgene expression similar to CMV/CBA. Thus, the tested MiniPs show great potential for protocols of retinal gene therapy in therapeutic applications for retinal degenerations, especially those involving RGC-related disorders such as glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor G Araujo
- Laboratory of Gene Therapy and Viral Vector, Carlos Chagas Filho Institute of Biophysics, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Mariana S Dias
- Laboratory of Gene Therapy and Viral Vector, Carlos Chagas Filho Institute of Biophysics, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - William W Hauswirth
- Retinal Gene Therapy Group, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Rafael Linden
- Laboratory of Neurogenesis, Carlos Chagas Filho Institute of Biophysics, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Hilda Petrs-Silva
- Laboratory of Gene Therapy and Viral Vector, Carlos Chagas Filho Institute of Biophysics, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
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2
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Mirjalili Mohanna SZ, Korecki AJ, Simpson EM. rAAV-PHP.B escapes the mouse eye and causes lethality whereas rAAV9 can transduce aniridic corneal limbal stem cells without lethality. Gene Ther 2023; 30:670-684. [PMID: 37072572 PMCID: PMC10506911 DOI: 10.1038/s41434-023-00400-6] [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: 01/06/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 04/20/2023]
Abstract
Recently safety concerns have been raised in connection with high doses of recombinant adeno-associated viruses (rAAV). Therefore, we undertook a series of experiments to test viral capsid (rAAV9 and rAAV-PHP.B), dose, and route of administration (intrastromal, intravitreal, and intravenous) focused on aniridia, a congenital blindness that currently has no cure. The success of gene therapy for aniridia may depend on the presence of functional limbal stem cells (LSCs) in the damaged aniridic corneas and whether rAAV can transduce them. Both these concerns were unknown, and thus were also addressed by our studies. For the first time, we report ataxia and lethality after intravitreal or intrastromal rAAV-PHP.B virus injections. We demonstrated virus escape from the eye and transduction of non-ocular tissues by rAAV9 and rAAV-PHP.B capsids. We have also shown that intrastromal and intravitreal delivery of rAAV9 can transduce functional LSCs, as well as all four PAX6-expressing retinal cell types in aniridic eye, respectively. Overall, lack of adverse events and successful transduction of LSCs and retinal cells makes it clear that rAAV9 is the capsid of choice for future aniridia gene therapy. Our finding of rAAV lethality after intraocular injections will be impactful for other researchers developing rAAV-based gene therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyedeh Zeinab Mirjalili Mohanna
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics at British Columbia Children's Hospital, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Department of Medical Genetics, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Andrea J Korecki
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics at British Columbia Children's Hospital, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Elizabeth M Simpson
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics at British Columbia Children's Hospital, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
- Department of Medical Genetics, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
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3
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van Velthoven AJH, Utheim TP, Notara M, Bremond-Gignac D, Figueiredo FC, Skottman H, Aberdam D, Daniels JT, Ferrari G, Grupcheva C, Koppen C, Parekh M, Ritter T, Romano V, Ferrari S, Cursiefen C, Lagali N, LaPointe VLS, Dickman MM. Future directions in managing aniridia-associated keratopathy. Surv Ophthalmol 2023; 68:940-956. [PMID: 37146692 DOI: 10.1016/j.survophthal.2023.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Congenital aniridia is a panocular disorder that is typically characterized by iris hypoplasia and aniridia-associated keratopathy (AAK). AAK results in the progressive loss of corneal transparency and thereby loss of vision. Currently, there is no approved therapy to delay or prevent its progression, and clinical management is challenging because of phenotypic variability and high risk of complications after interventions; however, new insights into the molecular pathogenesis of AAK may help improve its management. Here, we review the current understanding about the pathogenesis and management of AAK. We highlight the biological mechanisms involved in AAK development with the aim to develop future treatment options, including surgical, pharmacological, cell therapies, and gene therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arianne J H van Velthoven
- MERLN Institute for Technology-Inspired Regenerative Medicine, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands; University Eye Clinic Maastricht, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Tor P Utheim
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Department of Ophthalmology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Maria Notara
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Dominique Bremond-Gignac
- Ophthalmology Department, University Hospital Necker-Enfants Malades, APHP, Paris Cité University, Paris, France; Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Sorbonne Paris Cité University, Paris, France
| | - Francisco C Figueiredo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK; Biosciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Heli Skottman
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Daniel Aberdam
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Sorbonne Paris Cité University, Paris, France
| | | | - Giulio Ferrari
- Cornea and Ocular Surface Unit, Eye Repair Lab, San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Christina Grupcheva
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Medical University of Varna, Varna, Bulgaria
| | - Carina Koppen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium
| | - Mohit Parekh
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Thomas Ritter
- Regenerative Medicine Institute, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Vito Romano
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences, and Public Health, Ophthalmology Clinic, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | | | - Claus Cursiefen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Neil Lagali
- Division of Ophthalmology, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Vanessa L S LaPointe
- MERLN Institute for Technology-Inspired Regenerative Medicine, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Mor M Dickman
- MERLN Institute for Technology-Inspired Regenerative Medicine, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands; University Eye Clinic Maastricht, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, the Netherlands
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4
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Yuan Y, Kong W, Liu XM, Shi GH. Gene Therapy Activates Retinal Pigment Epithelium Cell Proliferation for Age-related Macular Degeneration in a Mouse Model. Curr Med Sci 2023; 43:384-392. [PMID: 36944806 DOI: 10.1007/s11596-022-2684-3] [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: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 03/23/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a degenerative retinal disease. The degeneration or death of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells is implicated in the pathogenesis of AMD. This study aimed to activate the proliferation of RPE cells in vivo by using an adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector encoding β-catenin to treat AMD in a mouse model. METHODS Mice were intravitreally injected with AAV2/8-Y733F-VMD2-β-catenin for 2 or 4 weeks, and β-catenin expression was measured using immunofluorescence staining, real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and Western blotting. The function of β-catenin was determined using retinal flat mounts and laser-induced damage models. Finally, the safety of AAV2/8-Y733F-VMD2-β-catenin was evaluated by multiple intravitreal injections. RESULTS AAV2/8-Y733F-VMD2-β-catenin induced the expression of β-catenin in RPE cells. It activated the proliferation of RPE cells and increased cyclin D1 expression. It was beneficial to the recovery of laser-induced damage by activating the proliferation of RPE cells. Furthermore, it could induce apoptosis of RPE cells by increasing the expression of Trp53, Bax and caspase3 while decreasing the expression of Bcl-2. CONCLUSION AAV2/8-Y733F-VMD2-β-catenin increased β-catenin expression in RPE cells, activated RPE cell proliferation, and helped mice heal from laser-induced eye injury. Furthermore, it could induce the apoptosis of RPE cells. Therefore, it may be a safe approach for AMD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Yuan
- School of Biomedical Engineering (Suzhou), Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Suzhou, 215000, China.
- Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Science, Suzhou, 215000, China.
| | - Wen Kong
- School of Biomedical Engineering (Suzhou), Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Suzhou, 215000, China
- Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Science, Suzhou, 215000, China
| | - Xiao-Mei Liu
- School of Biomedical Engineering (Suzhou), Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Suzhou, 215000, China
- Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Science, Suzhou, 215000, China
| | - Guo-Hua Shi
- School of Biomedical Engineering (Suzhou), Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Suzhou, 215000, China
- Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Science, Suzhou, 215000, China
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5
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Vijayasarathy C, Zeng Y, Marangoni D, Dong L, Pan ZH, Simpson EM, Fariss RN, Sieving PA. Targeted Expression of Retinoschisin by Retinal Bipolar Cells in XLRS Promotes Resolution of Retinoschisis Cysts Sans RS1 From Photoreceptors. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2022; 63:8. [PMID: 36227606 PMCID: PMC9583743 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.63.11.8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Loss of retinoschisin (RS1) function underlies X-linked retinoschisis (XLRS) pathology. In the retina, both photoreceptor inner segments and bipolar cells express RS1. However, the loss of RS1 function causes schisis primarily in the inner retina. To understand these cell type-specific phenotypes, we decoupled RS1 effects in bipolar cells from that in photoreceptors. Methods Bipolar cell transgene RS1 expression was achieved using two inner retina-specific promoters: (1) a minimal promoter engineered from glutamate receptor, metabotropic glutamate receptor 6 gene (mini-mGluR6/ Grm6) and (2) MiniPromoter (Ple155). Adeno-associated virus vectors encoding RS1 gene under either the mini-mGluR6 or Ple-155 promoter were delivered to the XLRS mouse retina through intravitreal or subretinal injection on postnatal day 14. Retinal structure and function were assessed 5 weeks later: immunohistochemistry for morphological characterization, optical coherence tomography and electroretinography (ERG) for structural and functional evaluation. Results Immunohistochemical analysis of RS1expression showed that expression with the MiniPromoter (Ple155) was heavily enriched in bipolar cells. Despite variations in vector penetrance and gene transfer efficiency across the injected retinas, those retinal areas with robust bipolar cell RS1 expression showed tightly packed bipolar cells with fewer cavities and marked improvement in inner retinal structure and synaptic function as judged by optical coherence tomography and electroretinography, respectively. Conclusions These results demonstrate that RS1 gene expression primarily in bipolar cells of the XLRS mouse retina, independent of photoreceptor expression, can ameliorate retinoschisis structural pathology and provide further evidence of RS1 role in cell adhesion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camasamudram Vijayasarathy
- Section for Translational Research in Retinal and Macular Degeneration, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States
| | - Yong Zeng
- Section for Translational Research in Retinal and Macular Degeneration, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States
| | - Dario Marangoni
- Section for Translational Research in Retinal and Macular Degeneration, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States
| | - Lijin Dong
- Genetic Engineering Facility, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States
| | - Zhuo-Hua Pan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Visual and Anatomical Sciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, United States
| | - Elizabeth M. Simpson
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics at BC Children's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Robert N. Fariss
- Biological Imaging Core, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States
| | - Paul A. Sieving
- Section for Translational Research in Retinal and Macular Degeneration, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States
- Center for Ocular Regenerative Therapy, Department of Ophthalmology, University of California Davis, United States
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6
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Kofoed RH, Heinen S, Silburt J, Dubey S, Dibia CL, Maes M, Simpson EM, Hynynen K, Aubert I. Transgene distribution and immune response after ultrasound delivery of rAAV9 and PHP.B to the brain in a mouse model of amyloidosis. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2021; 23:390-405. [PMID: 34761053 PMCID: PMC8560718 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2021.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Revised: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Efficient disease-modifying treatments for Alzheimer disease, the most common form of dementia, have yet to be established. Gene therapy has the potential to provide the long-term production of therapeutic in the brain following a single administration. However, the blood-brain barrier poses a challenge for gene delivery to the adult brain. We investigated the transduction efficiency and immunological response following non-invasive gene-delivery strategies to the brain of a mouse model of amyloidosis. Two emerging technologies enabling gene delivery across the blood-brain barrier were used to establish the minimal vector dosage required to reach the brain: (1) focused ultrasound combined with intravenous microbubbles, which increases the permeability of the blood-brain barrier at targeted sites and (2) the recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV)-based capsid named rAAV-PHP.B. We found that equal intravenous dosages of rAAV9 combined with focused ultrasound, or rAAV-PHP.B, were required for brain gene delivery. In contrast to rAAV9, focused ultrasound did not decrease the rAAV-PHP.B dosage required to transduce brain cells in a mouse model of amyloidosis. The non-invasive rAAV delivery to the brain using rAAV-PHP.B or rAAV9 with focused ultrasound triggered an immune reaction including major histocompatibility complex class II expression, complement system and microglial activation, and T cell infiltration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rikke Hahn Kofoed
- Biological Sciences, Hurvitz Brain Sciences Research Program, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON M4N 3M5, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Stefan Heinen
- Biological Sciences, Hurvitz Brain Sciences Research Program, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON M4N 3M5, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Joseph Silburt
- Biological Sciences, Hurvitz Brain Sciences Research Program, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON M4N 3M5, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Sonam Dubey
- Biological Sciences, Hurvitz Brain Sciences Research Program, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON M4N 3M5, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Chinaza Lilian Dibia
- Biological Sciences, Hurvitz Brain Sciences Research Program, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON M4N 3M5, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Miriam Maes
- Biological Sciences, Hurvitz Brain Sciences Research Program, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON M4N 3M5, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Elizabeth M. Simpson
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics at British Columbia Children’s Hospital, Department of Medical Genetics, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V5Z 4H4, Canada
| | - Kullervo Hynynen
- Physical Sciences, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON M4N 3M5, Canada
- Department of Medical Biophysics, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1L7, Canada
| | - Isabelle Aubert
- Biological Sciences, Hurvitz Brain Sciences Research Program, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON M4N 3M5, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
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7
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Korecki AJ, Cueva-Vargas JL, Fornes O, Agostinone J, Farkas RA, Hickmott JW, Lam SL, Mathelier A, Zhou M, Wasserman WW, Di Polo A, Simpson EM. Human MiniPromoters for ocular-rAAV expression in ON bipolar, cone, corneal, endothelial, Müller glial, and PAX6 cells. Gene Ther 2021; 28:351-372. [PMID: 33531684 PMCID: PMC8222000 DOI: 10.1038/s41434-021-00227-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Revised: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Small and cell-type restricted promoters are important tools for basic and preclinical research, and clinical delivery of gene therapies. In clinical gene therapy, ophthalmic trials have been leading the field, with over 50% of ocular clinical trials using promoters that restrict expression based on cell type. Here, 19 human DNA MiniPromoters were bioinformatically designed for rAAV, tested by neonatal intravenous delivery in mouse, and successful MiniPromoters went on to be tested by intravitreal, subretinal, intrastromal, and/or intravenous delivery in adult mouse. We present promoter development as an overview for each cell type, but only show results in detail for the recommended MiniPromoters: Ple265 and Ple341 (PCP2) ON bipolar, Ple349 (PDE6H) cone, Ple253 (PITX3) corneal stroma, Ple32 (CLDN5) endothelial cells of the blood-retina barrier, Ple316 (NR2E1) Müller glia, and Ple331 (PAX6) PAX6 positive. Overall, we present a resource of new, redesigned, and improved MiniPromoters for ocular gene therapy that range in size from 784 to 2484 bp, and from weaker, equal, or stronger in strength relative to the ubiquitous control promoter smCBA. All MiniPromoters will be useful for therapies involving small regulatory RNA and DNA, and proteins ranging from 517 to 1084 amino acids, representing 62.9-90.2% of human proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea J. Korecki
- grid.17091.3e0000 0001 2288 9830Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics at BC Children’s Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC Canada
| | - Jorge L. Cueva-Vargas
- grid.14848.310000 0001 2292 3357Department of Neuroscience, University of Montreal Hospital Research Centre, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC Canada
| | - Oriol Fornes
- grid.17091.3e0000 0001 2288 9830Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics at BC Children’s Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC Canada
| | - Jessica Agostinone
- grid.14848.310000 0001 2292 3357Department of Neuroscience, University of Montreal Hospital Research Centre, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC Canada
| | - Rachelle A. Farkas
- grid.17091.3e0000 0001 2288 9830Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics at BC Children’s Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC Canada ,grid.17091.3e0000 0001 2288 9830Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC Canada
| | - Jack W. Hickmott
- grid.17091.3e0000 0001 2288 9830Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics at BC Children’s Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC Canada ,grid.17091.3e0000 0001 2288 9830Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC Canada
| | - Siu Ling Lam
- grid.17091.3e0000 0001 2288 9830Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics at BC Children’s Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC Canada
| | - Anthony Mathelier
- grid.17091.3e0000 0001 2288 9830Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics at BC Children’s Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC Canada
| | - Michelle Zhou
- grid.17091.3e0000 0001 2288 9830Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics at BC Children’s Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC Canada
| | - Wyeth W. Wasserman
- grid.17091.3e0000 0001 2288 9830Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics at BC Children’s Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC Canada ,grid.17091.3e0000 0001 2288 9830Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC Canada
| | - Adriana Di Polo
- grid.14848.310000 0001 2292 3357Department of Neuroscience, University of Montreal Hospital Research Centre, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC Canada
| | - Elizabeth M. Simpson
- grid.17091.3e0000 0001 2288 9830Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics at BC Children’s Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC Canada ,grid.17091.3e0000 0001 2288 9830Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC Canada
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8
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Mirjalili Mohanna SZ, Hickmott JW, Lam SL, Chiu NY, Lengyell TC, Tam BM, Moritz OL, Simpson EM. Germline CRISPR/Cas9-Mediated Gene Editing Prevents Vision Loss in a Novel Mouse Model of Aniridia. MOLECULAR THERAPY-METHODS & CLINICAL DEVELOPMENT 2020; 17:478-490. [PMID: 32258211 PMCID: PMC7114625 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2020.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Aniridia is a rare eye disorder, which is caused by mutations in the paired box 6 (PAX6) gene and results in vision loss due to the lack of a long-term vision-saving therapy. One potential approach to treating aniridia is targeted CRISPR-based genome editing. To enable the Pax6 small eye (Sey) mouse model of aniridia, which carries the same mutation found in patients, for preclinical testing of CRISPR-based therapeutic approaches, we endogenously tagged the Sey allele, allowing for the differential detection of protein from each allele. We optimized a correction strategy in vitro then tested it in vivo in the germline of our new mouse to validate the causality of the Sey mutation. The genomic manipulations were analyzed by PCR, as well as by Sanger and next-generation sequencing. The mice were studied by slit lamp imaging, immunohistochemistry, and western blot analyses. We successfully achieved both in vitro and in vivo germline correction of the Sey mutation, with the former resulting in an average 34.8% ± 4.6% SD correction, and the latter in restoration of 3xFLAG-tagged PAX6 expression and normal eyes. Hence, in this study we have created a novel mouse model for aniridia, demonstrated that germline correction of the Sey mutation alone rescues the mutant phenotype, and developed an allele-distinguishing CRISPR-based strategy for aniridia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyedeh Zeinab Mirjalili Mohanna
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics at British Columbia Children's Hospital, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V5Z 4H4, Canada.,Department of Medical Genetics, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Jack W Hickmott
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics at British Columbia Children's Hospital, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V5Z 4H4, Canada.,Department of Medical Genetics, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Siu Ling Lam
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics at British Columbia Children's Hospital, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V5Z 4H4, Canada
| | - Nina Y Chiu
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics at British Columbia Children's Hospital, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V5Z 4H4, Canada.,Department of Medical Genetics, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Tess C Lengyell
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics at British Columbia Children's Hospital, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V5Z 4H4, Canada
| | - Beatrice M Tam
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences and Centre for Macular Research, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Orson L Moritz
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences and Centre for Macular Research, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Elizabeth M Simpson
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics at British Columbia Children's Hospital, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V5Z 4H4, Canada.,Department of Medical Genetics, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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9
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Di Iorio E, Barbaro V, Alvisi G, Trevisan M, Ferrari S, Masi G, Nespeca P, Ghassabian H, Ponzin D, Palù G. New Frontiers of Corneal Gene Therapy. Hum Gene Ther 2019; 30:923-945. [PMID: 31020856 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2019.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Corneal diseases are among the most prevalent causes of blindness worldwide. The transparency and clarity of the cornea are guaranteed by a delicate physiological, anatomic, and functional balance. For this reason, all the disorders, including those of genetic origin, that compromise this state of harmony can lead to opacity and eventually vision loss. Many corneal disorders have a genetic etiology, and some are associated with rather rare and complex syndromes. Conventional treatments, such as corneal transplantation, are often ineffective, and to date, many of these disorders are still incurable. Gene therapy carries the promise of being a potential cure for many of these diseases, with solutions and strategies that did not seem possible until a few years ago. With its potential to treat genetic disease by means of deletion, replacement, or editing of a defective gene, the challenge can also be extended to corneal disorders in order to achieve long-term, if not definitive, relief. The aim of this paper is to review the state of the art of the different gene therapy approaches as potential treatments for corneal diseases and the future perspectives for the development of personalized gene-based medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enzo Di Iorio
- 1Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Vanessa Barbaro
- 2Fondazione Banca Degli Occhi Del Veneto Onlus, Zelarino, Venezia, Italy
| | - Gualtiero Alvisi
- 1Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Marta Trevisan
- 1Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Stefano Ferrari
- 2Fondazione Banca Degli Occhi Del Veneto Onlus, Zelarino, Venezia, Italy
| | - Giulia Masi
- 1Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Patrizia Nespeca
- 1Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Hanieh Ghassabian
- 1Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Diego Ponzin
- 2Fondazione Banca Degli Occhi Del Veneto Onlus, Zelarino, Venezia, Italy
| | - Giorgio Palù
- 1Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
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10
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Twenty-Seven Tamoxifen-Inducible iCre-Driver Mouse Strains for Eye and Brain, Including Seventeen Carrying a New Inducible-First Constitutive-Ready Allele. Genetics 2019; 211:1155-1177. [PMID: 30765420 PMCID: PMC6456315 DOI: 10.1534/genetics.119.301984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2018] [Accepted: 02/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
To understand gene function, the cre/loxP conditional system is the most powerful available for temporal and spatial control of expression in mouse. However, the research community requires more cre recombinase expressing transgenic mouse strains (cre-drivers) that restrict expression to specific cell types. To address these problems, a high-throughput method for large-scale production that produces high-quality results is necessary. Further, endogenous promoters need to be chosen that drive cell type specific expression, or we need to further focus the expression by manipulating the promoter. Here we test the suitability of using knock-ins at the docking site 5′ of Hprt for rapid development of numerous cre-driver strains focused on expression in adulthood, using an improved cre tamoxifen inducible allele (icre/ERT2), and testing a novel inducible-first, constitutive-ready allele (icre/f3/ERT2/f3). In addition, we test two types of promoters either to capture an endogenous expression pattern (MaxiPromoters), or to restrict expression further using minimal promoter element(s) designed for expression in restricted cell types (MiniPromoters). We provide new cre-driver mouse strains with applicability for brain and eye research. In addition, we demonstrate the feasibility and applicability of using the locus 5′ of Hprt for the rapid generation of substantial numbers of cre-driver strains. We also provide a new inducible-first constitutive-ready allele to further speed cre-driver generation. Finally, all these strains are available to the research community through The Jackson Laboratory.
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11
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Simpson EM, Korecki AJ, Fornes O, McGill TJ, Cueva-Vargas JL, Agostinone J, Farkas RA, Hickmott JW, Lam SL, Mathelier A, Renner LM, Stoddard J, Zhou M, Di Polo A, Neuringer M, Wasserman WW. New MiniPromoter Ple345 (NEFL) Drives Strong and Specific Expression in Retinal Ganglion Cells of Mouse and Primate Retina. Hum Gene Ther 2018; 30:257-272. [PMID: 30062914 PMCID: PMC6437624 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2018.118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinal gene therapy is leading the neurological gene therapy field, with 32 ongoing clinical trials of recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV)–based therapies. Importantly, over 50% of those trials are using restricted promoters from human genes. Promoters that restrict expression have demonstrated increased efficacy and can limit the therapeutic to the target cells thereby reducing unwanted off-target effects. Retinal ganglion cells are a critical target in ocular gene therapy; they are involved in common diseases such as glaucoma, rare diseases such as Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy, and in revolutionary optogenetic treatments. Here, we used computational biology and mined the human genome for the best genes from which to develop a novel minimal promoter element(s) designed for expression in restricted cell types (MiniPromoter) to improve the safety and efficacy of retinal ganglion cell gene therapy. Gene selection included the use of the first available droplet-based single-cell RNA sequencing (Drop-seq) dataset, and promoter design was bioinformatically driven and informed by a wide range of genomics datasets. We tested seven promoter designs from four genes in rAAV for specificity and quantified expression strength in retinal ganglion cells in mouse, and then the single best in nonhuman primate retina. Thus, we developed a new human-DNA MiniPromoter, Ple345 (NEFL), which in combination with intravitreal delivery in rAAV9 showed specific and robust expression in the retinal ganglion cells of the nonhuman-primate rhesus macaque retina. In mouse, we also developed MiniPromoters expressing in retinal ganglion cells, the hippocampus of the brain, a pan neuronal pattern in the brain, and peripheral nerves. As single-cell transcriptomics such as Drop-seq become available for other cell types, many new opportunities for additional novel restricted MiniPromoters will present.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth M Simpson
- 1 Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics at BC Children's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,2 Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,3 Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,4 Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Andrea J Korecki
- 1 Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics at BC Children's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Oriol Fornes
- 1 Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics at BC Children's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,2 Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Trevor J McGill
- 5 Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon.,6 Department of Ophthalmology, Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Jorge Luis Cueva-Vargas
- 7 Department of Neuroscience and Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Jessica Agostinone
- 7 Department of Neuroscience and Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Rachelle A Farkas
- 1 Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics at BC Children's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Jack W Hickmott
- 1 Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics at BC Children's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,2 Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Siu Ling Lam
- 1 Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics at BC Children's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Anthony Mathelier
- 1 Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics at BC Children's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,2 Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Lauren M Renner
- 5 Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Jonathan Stoddard
- 5 Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Michelle Zhou
- 1 Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics at BC Children's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Adriana Di Polo
- 7 Department of Neuroscience and Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Martha Neuringer
- 5 Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon.,6 Department of Ophthalmology, Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Wyeth W Wasserman
- 1 Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics at BC Children's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,2 Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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12
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Epistasis between Pax6 Sey and genetic background reinforces the value of defined hybrid mouse models for therapeutic trials. Gene Ther 2018; 25:524-537. [PMID: 30258099 PMCID: PMC6335240 DOI: 10.1038/s41434-018-0043-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2018] [Revised: 09/02/2018] [Accepted: 09/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The small eye (Sey) mouse is a model of PAX6-aniridia syndrome (aniridia). Aniridia, a congenital ocular disorder caused by heterozygous loss-of-function mutations in PAX6, needs new vision saving therapies. However, high phenotypic variability in Sey mice makes development of such therapies challenging. We hypothesize that genetic background is a major source of undesirable variability in Sey mice. Here we performed a systematic quantitative examination of anatomical, histological, and molecular phenotypes on the inbred C57BL/6J, hybrid B6129F1, and inbred 129S1/SvImJ backgrounds. The Sey allele significantly reduced eye weight, corneal thickness, PAX6 mRNA and protein levels, and elevated blood glucose levels. Surprisingly, Pax6Sey/Sey brains had significantly elevated Pax6 transcripts compared to Pax6+/+ embryos. Genetic background significantly influenced 12/24 measurements, with inbred strains introducing severe ocular and blood sugar phenotypes not observed in hybrid mice. Additionally, significant interactions (epistasis) between Pax6 genotype and genetic background were detected in measurements of eye weight, cornea epithelial thickness and cell count, retinal mRNA levels, and blood glucose levels. The number of epistatic interactions was reduced in hybrid mice. In conclusion, severe phenotypes in the unnatural inbred strains reinforce the value of more naturalistic F1 hybrid mice for the development of therapies for aniridia and other disorders.
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13
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Development of an inducible anti-VEGF rAAV gene therapy strategy for the treatment of wet AMD. Sci Rep 2018; 8:11763. [PMID: 30082848 PMCID: PMC6079038 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-29726-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2018] [Accepted: 07/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a key mediator in the development and progression of choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in patients with wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD). As a consequence, current treatment strategies typically focus on the administration of anti-VEGF agents, such as Aflibercept (Eylea), that inhibit VEGF function. While this approach is largely successful at counteracting CNV progression, the treatment can require repetitive (i.e. monthly) intravitreal injections of the anti-VEGF agent throughout the patient’s lifetime, imposing a substantial financial and medical burden on the patient. Moreover, repetitive injection of anti-VEGF agents over a period of years may encourage progression of retinal and choroidal atrophy in patients with AMD, leading to a decrease in visual acuity. Herein, we have developed a single-injection recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV)-based gene therapy treatment for wet AMD that prevents CNV formation through inducible over-expression of Eylea. First, we demonstrate that by incorporating riboswitch elements into the rAAV expression cassette allows protein expression levels to be modulated in vivo through oral supplementation on an activating ligand (e.g. tetracycline). We subsequently utilized this technology to modulate the intraocular concentration of Eylea following rAAV delivery, leading to nearly complete (p = 0.0008) inhibition of clinically significant CNV lesions in an established mouse model of wet AMD. The results shown in this study pave the way for the development of a personalized gene therapy strategy for the treatment of wet AMD that is substantially less invasive and more clinically adaptable than the current treatment paradigm of repetitive bolus injections of anti-VEGF agents.
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14
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Daliri K, Ljubimov AV, Hekmatimoghaddam S. Glaucoma, Stem Cells, and Gene Therapy: Where Are We Now? Int J Stem Cells 2017; 10:119-128. [PMID: 28844129 PMCID: PMC5741193 DOI: 10.15283/ijsc17029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma is the second most common cause of blindness, affecting 70∼80 million people around the world. The death of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) is the main cause of blindness related to this disease. Current therapies do not provide enough protection and regeneration of RGCs. A novel opportunity for treatment of glaucoma is application of technologies related to stem cell and gene therapy. In this perspective we will thus focus on emerging approaches to glaucoma treatment including stem cells and gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karim Daliri
- Neurogenetic Ward, Comprehensive Child Developmental Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.,Visiting Scientist at Department of Neurology and Epileptology, Hertie Institute for Clinical Brain Research, University of Tübingen, Germany
| | - Alexander V Ljubimov
- Regenerative Medicine Institute, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA.,Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Seyedhossein Hekmatimoghaddam
- Stem Cell Biology Research Center, Yazd Reproductive Sciences Institute, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran.,Department of Laboratory Sciences, School of Paramedicine, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
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