1
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Tieu MV, Pham DT, Cho S. Bacteria-based cancer therapy: Looking forward. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2024; 1879:189112. [PMID: 38761983 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2024.189112] [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: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
The field of bacteria-based cancer therapy, which focuses on the key role played by the prevalence of bacteria, specifically in tumors, in controlling potential targets for cancer therapy, has grown enormously over the past few decades. In this review, we discuss, for the first time, the global cancer situation and the timeline for using bacteria in cancer therapy. We also explore how interdisciplinary collaboration has contributed to the evolution of bacteria-based cancer therapies. Additionally, we address the challenges that need to be overcome for bacteria-based cancer therapy to be accepted in clinical trials and the latest advancements in the field. The groundbreaking technologies developed through bacteria-based cancer therapy have opened up new therapeutic strategies for a wide range of therapeutics in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- My-Van Tieu
- Department of Electronic Engineering, Gachon University, Seongnam-si 13120, Republic of Korea
| | - Duc-Trung Pham
- Department of Electronic Engineering, Gachon University, Seongnam-si 13120, Republic of Korea
| | - Sungbo Cho
- Department of Electronic Engineering, Gachon University, Seongnam-si 13120, Republic of Korea; Department of Health Sciences and Technology, GAIHST, Gachon University, Incheon 21999, Republic of Korea.
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2
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Helenek C, Krzysztoń R, Petreczky J, Wan Y, Cabral M, Coraci D, Balázsi G. Synthetic gene circuit evolution: Insights and opportunities at the mid-scale. Cell Chem Biol 2024:S2451-9456(24)00219-8. [PMID: 38925113 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2024.05.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Directed evolution focuses on optimizing single genetic components for predefined engineering goals by artificial mutagenesis and selection. In contrast, experimental evolution studies the adaptation of entire genomes in serially propagated cell populations, to provide an experimental basis for evolutionary theory. There is a relatively unexplored gap at the middle ground between these two techniques, to evolve in vivo entire synthetic gene circuits with nontrivial dynamic function instead of single parts or whole genomes. We discuss the requirements for such mid-scale evolution, with hypothetical examples for evolving synthetic gene circuits by appropriate selection and targeted shuffling of a seed set of genetic components in vivo. Implementing similar methods should aid the rapid generation, functionalization, and optimization of synthetic gene circuits in various organisms and environments, accelerating both the development of biomedical and technological applications and the understanding of principles guiding regulatory network evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Helenek
- The Louis and Beatrice Laufer Center for Physical and Quantitative Biology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA
| | - Rafał Krzysztoń
- The Louis and Beatrice Laufer Center for Physical and Quantitative Biology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA
| | - Julia Petreczky
- The Louis and Beatrice Laufer Center for Physical and Quantitative Biology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA; Department of Chemistry, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA
| | - Yiming Wan
- The Louis and Beatrice Laufer Center for Physical and Quantitative Biology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA
| | - Mariana Cabral
- The Louis and Beatrice Laufer Center for Physical and Quantitative Biology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA
| | - Damiano Coraci
- The Louis and Beatrice Laufer Center for Physical and Quantitative Biology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA
| | - Gábor Balázsi
- The Louis and Beatrice Laufer Center for Physical and Quantitative Biology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA; Stony Brook Cancer Center, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA.
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3
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Leal-Alves C, Deng Z, Kermeci N, Shih SCC. Integrating microfluidics and synthetic biology: advancements and diverse applications across organisms. LAB ON A CHIP 2024; 24:2834-2860. [PMID: 38712893 DOI: 10.1039/d3lc01090b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
Synthetic biology is the design and modification of biological systems for specific functions, integrating several disciplines like engineering, genetics, and computer science. The field of synthetic biology is to understand biological processes within host organisms through the manipulation and regulation of their genetic pathways and the addition of biocontrol circuits to enhance their production capabilities. This pursuit serves to address global challenges spanning diverse domains that are difficult to tackle through conventional routes of production. Despite its impact, achieving precise, dynamic, and high-throughput manipulation of biological processes is still challenging. Microfluidics offers a solution to those challenges, enabling controlled fluid handling at the microscale, offering lower reagent consumption, faster analysis of biochemical reactions, automation, and high throughput screening. In this review, we diverge from conventional focus on automating the synthetic biology design-build-test-learn cycle, and instead, focus on microfluidic platforms and their role in advancing synthetic biology through its integration with host organisms - bacterial cells, yeast, fungi, animal cells - and cell-free systems. The review illustrates how microfluidic devices have been instrumental in understanding biological systems by showcasing microfluidics as an essential tool to create synthetic genetic circuits, pathways, and organisms within controlled environments. In conclusion, we show how microfluidics expedite synthetic biology applications across diverse domains including but not limited to personalized medicine, bioenergy, and agriculture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Leal-Alves
- Centre for Applied Synthetic Biology, Concordia University, 7141 Sherbrooke St. W, Montréal, QC, H4B1R6 Canada.
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Concordia University, 1515 Ste-Catherine St. W, Montréal, QC, H3G1M8 Canada
| | - Zhiyang Deng
- Centre for Applied Synthetic Biology, Concordia University, 7141 Sherbrooke St. W, Montréal, QC, H4B1R6 Canada.
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Concordia University, 1515 Ste-Catherine St. W, Montréal, QC, H3G1M8 Canada
| | - Natalia Kermeci
- Centre for Applied Synthetic Biology, Concordia University, 7141 Sherbrooke St. W, Montréal, QC, H4B1R6 Canada.
- Department of Biology, Concordia University, 7141 Sherbrooke St. W, Montréal, QC, H4B1R6 Canada
| | - Steve C C Shih
- Centre for Applied Synthetic Biology, Concordia University, 7141 Sherbrooke St. W, Montréal, QC, H4B1R6 Canada.
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Concordia University, 1515 Ste-Catherine St. W, Montréal, QC, H3G1M8 Canada
- Department of Biology, Concordia University, 7141 Sherbrooke St. W, Montréal, QC, H4B1R6 Canada
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4
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Luo HD, Moon H, Siren E, Clark M, Drayton M, Kizhakkedathu JN. Investigation on Adaptability and Applicability of Polymer-Mediated Cell Surface Engineering by Ligation with Transglutaminase. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:15893-15906. [PMID: 38512725 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c19202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
Polymer-mediated cell surface engineering can be a powerful tool to modify the cell's biological behavior, but a simple ligation strategy must be identified. This manuscript assessed the use of transglutamination as a versatile and adaptable approach for cell surface engineering in various cellular models relevant to biomedical applications. This enzymatic approach was evaluated for its feasibility and potential for conjugating polymers to diverse cell surfaces and its biological effects. Transglutaminase-mediated ligation was successfully performed at temperatures ranging from 4 to 37 °C in as quickly as 30 min, while maintaining biocompatibility and preserving cell viability. This approach was successfully applied to nine different cell surfaces (including adherent cells and suspension cells) by optimizing the enzyme source (guinea pig liver vs microbial), buffer compositions, and incubation conditions. Finally, polymer-mediated cell surface engineering using transglutaminase exhibited immunocamouflage abilities for endothelial cells, T cells, and red blood cells by preventing the recognition of cell surface proteins by antibodies. Employing transglutaminase in polymer-mediated cell surface engineering is a promising approach to maximize its application in cell therapy and other biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiming D Luo
- Centre for Blood Research & Life Sciences Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, B.C. V6T 1Z3, Canada
- Department of Chemistry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, B.C. V6T 1Z1, Canada
| | - Haisle Moon
- Centre for Blood Research & Life Sciences Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, B.C. V6T 1Z3, Canada
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, B.C V6T 1Z7, Canada
| | - Erika Siren
- Centre for Blood Research & Life Sciences Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, B.C. V6T 1Z3, Canada
- Department of Chemistry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, B.C. V6T 1Z1, Canada
| | - Meredith Clark
- Centre for Blood Research & Life Sciences Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, B.C. V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Matthew Drayton
- Centre for Blood Research & Life Sciences Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, B.C. V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Jayachandran N Kizhakkedathu
- Centre for Blood Research & Life Sciences Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, B.C. V6T 1Z3, Canada
- Department of Chemistry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, B.C. V6T 1Z1, Canada
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, B.C V6T 1Z7, Canada
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, B.C. V6T 2B9, Canada
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5
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Cook GD, Stasulli NM. Employing synthetic biology to expand antibiotic discovery. SLAS Technol 2024; 29:100120. [PMID: 38340893 DOI: 10.1016/j.slast.2024.100120] [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: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) bacterial pathogens are a continually growing threat as our methods for combating these infections continue to be overcome by the evolution of resistance mechanisms. Recent therapeutic methods have not staved off the concern of AMR infections, so continued research focuses on new ways of identifying small molecules to treat AMR pathogens. While chemical modification of existing antibiotics is possible, there has been rapid development of resistance by pathogens that were initially susceptible to these compounds. Synthetic biology is becoming a key strategy in trying to predict and induce novel, natural antibiotics. Advances in cloning and mutagenesis techniques applied through a synthetic biology lens can help characterize the native regulation of antibiotic biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) to identify potential modifications leading to more potent antibiotic activity. Additionally, many cryptic antibiotic BGCs are derived from non-ribosomal peptide synthase (NRPS) and polyketide synthase (PKS) biosynthetic pathways; complex, clustered genetic sequences that give rise to amino acid-derived natural products. Synthetic biology can be applied to modify and metabolically engineer these enzyme-based systems to promote rapid and sustainable production of natural products and their variants. This review will focus on recent advances related to synthetic biology as applied to genetic pathway characterization and identification of antibiotics from naturally occurring BGCs. Specifically, we will summarize recent efforts to characterize BGCs via general genomic mutagenesis, endogenous gene expression, and heterologous gene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Greta D Cook
- Department of Biology and Environmental Science, University of New Haven, 300 Boston Post Rd, Dodds Hall 316, West Haven 06516 USA
| | - Nikolas M Stasulli
- Department of Biology and Environmental Science, University of New Haven, 300 Boston Post Rd, Dodds Hall 316, West Haven 06516 USA.
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6
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Ning P, Du F, Wang H, Gong X, Xia Y, Zhang X, Deng H, Zhang R, Wang Z. Genetically engineered macrophages as living cell drug carriers for targeted cancer therapy. J Control Release 2024; 367:697-707. [PMID: 38331001 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2023] [Revised: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Precise targeting is a major prerequisite for effective cancer therapy because it ensures a sufficient therapeutic dosage in tumors while minimizing off-target side effects. Herein, we report a live-macrophage-based therapeutic system for high-efficiency tumor therapy. As a proof of concept, anti-human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER2) affibodies were genetically engineered onto the extracellular membrane of macrophages (AE-Mφ), which further internalized doxorubicin (DOX)-loaded poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles (NPs) to produce a macrophage-based therapeutic system armed with anti-HER2 affibodies. NPs(DOX)@AE-Mφ were able to target HER2+ cancer cells and specifically elicit affibody-mediated cell therapy. Most importantly, the superior HER2 + -targeting capability of NPs(DOX)@AE-Mφ greatly guaranteed high accumulation at the tumor site for improved chemotherapy, which acted synergistically with cell therapy to significantly enhance anti-tumor efficacy. This study suggests that NPs(DOX)@AE-Mφ could be utilized as an innovative 'living targeted drug' platform for combining both macrophage-mediated cell therapy and targeted chemotherapy for the individualized treatment of solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengbo Ning
- School of Life Science and Technology, Xidian University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710071, PR China; Engineering Research Center of Molecular & Neuroimaging, Ministry of Education, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710071, PR China.
| | - Fuyu Du
- School of Life Science and Technology, Xidian University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710071, PR China; Engineering Research Center of Molecular & Neuroimaging, Ministry of Education, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710071, PR China
| | - Haotian Wang
- Department of radiology, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shenyang, Liaoning 110801, China
| | - Xiaocheng Gong
- School of Life Science and Technology, Xidian University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710071, PR China; Engineering Research Center of Molecular & Neuroimaging, Ministry of Education, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710071, PR China
| | - Yuqiong Xia
- School of Life Science and Technology, Xidian University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710071, PR China; Engineering Research Center of Molecular & Neuroimaging, Ministry of Education, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710071, PR China
| | - Xianghan Zhang
- School of Life Science and Technology, Xidian University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710071, PR China; Engineering Research Center of Molecular & Neuroimaging, Ministry of Education, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710071, PR China
| | - Hongzhang Deng
- School of Life Science and Technology, Xidian University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710071, PR China; Engineering Research Center of Molecular & Neuroimaging, Ministry of Education, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710071, PR China
| | - Ruili Zhang
- School of Life Science and Technology, Xidian University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710071, PR China; Engineering Research Center of Molecular & Neuroimaging, Ministry of Education, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710071, PR China.
| | - Zhongliang Wang
- School of Life Science and Technology, Xidian University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710071, PR China; Engineering Research Center of Molecular & Neuroimaging, Ministry of Education, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710071, PR China.
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7
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Dey S, Devender M, Rani S, Pandey RK. Recent advances in CAR T-cell engineering using synthetic biology: Paving the way for next-generation cancer treatment. ADVANCES IN PROTEIN CHEMISTRY AND STRUCTURAL BIOLOGY 2024; 140:91-156. [PMID: 38762281 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apcsb.2024.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
This book chapter highlights a comprehensive exploration of the transformative innovations in the field of cancer immunotherapy. CAR (Chimeric Antigen Receptor) T-cell therapy represents a groundbreaking approach to treat cancer by reprogramming a patient immune cells to recognize and destroy cancer cells. This chapter underscores the critical role of synthetic biology in enhancing the safety and effectiveness of CAR T-cell therapies. It begins by emphasizing the growing importance of personalized medicine in cancer treatment, emphasizing the shift from one-size-fits-all approaches to patient-specific solutions. Synthetic biology, a multidisciplinary field, has been instrumental in customizing CAR T-cell therapies, allowing for fine-tuned precision and minimizing unwanted side effects. The chapter highlights recent advances in gene editing, synthetic gene circuits, and molecular engineering, showcasing how these technologies are optimizing CAR T-cell function. In summary, this book chapter sheds light on the remarkable progress made in the development of CAR T-cell therapies using synthetic biology, providing hope for cancer patients and hinting at a future where highly personalized and effective cancer treatments are the norm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sangita Dey
- CSO Department, Cellworks Research India Pvt Ltd, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Moodu Devender
- Department of Animal Biology, School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad, India
| | - Swati Rani
- ICAR, National Institute of Veterinary Epidemiology and Disease Informatics, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Rajan Kumar Pandey
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institute, Solna, Sweden.
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8
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Hussain H. How can we unlock the full potential of marine biological resources for novel drug discovery in an effective and ethical way? Expert Opin Drug Discov 2024; 19:125-130. [PMID: 37994413 DOI: 10.1080/17460441.2023.2285402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Hidayat Hussain
- Department of Bioorganic Chemistry, Leibniz Institute of Plant Biochemistry, Halle (Saale), Germany
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9
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Fu Y, Wang T, Ronald JA. A synthetic notch (synNotch) system linking intratumoral immune-cancer cell communication to a synthetic blood biomarker assay. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1304194. [PMID: 38143496 PMCID: PMC10740178 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1304194] [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: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Cellular immunotherapy has greatly improved cancer treatment in recent years. For instance, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy has been proven highly effective in treating hematological malignancies, and many CAR cell designs are being explored for solid tumors. However, many questions remain why responses differ across patients and some tumor types are resistant. Improved and relatively inexpensive ways to monitor these cells could provide some answers. Clinically, blood tests are regularly used to monitor these therapies, but blood signals often do not reflect the activity of immune cells within the tumor(s). Here, using the synthetic Notch (synNotch) receptor that tethers antigen binding to customized transgene expression, we linked intratumoral immune-cancer cell communication to a simple secreted reporter blood test. Specifically, we engineered immune cells with a CD19-targeted synNotch receptor and demonstrated that binding to CD19 on cancer cells in vivo resulted in the production of secreted embryonic alkaline phosphatase (SEAP) at levels that are readily detected in the blood. Methods and Results: Jurkat T cells were engineered via sequential lentiviral transduction of two components: an anti-CD19 synNotch receptor and a synNotch response element encoding SEAP. Co-culture of engineered cells with CD19+, but not CD19-, Nalm6 cells, resulted in significantly elevated SEAP in media. Nod-scid-gamma (NSG) mice were subcutaneously injected with either CD19+ or CD19- Nalm6 cells. Intratumoral injection of engineered T cells (1x107) resulted in significantly elevated blood SEAP activity in mice bearing CD19+ tumors (n = 7), but not CD19- tumors (n = 5). Discussion: Our synNotch reporter system allows for the monitoring of antigen-dependent intratumoral immune-cancer cell interactions through a simple and convenient blood test. Continued development of this system for different target antigens of interest should provide a broadly applicable platform for improved monitoring of many cell-based immunotherapies during their initial development and clinical translation, ultimately improving our understanding of design considerations and patient-specific responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- YangHao Fu
- Imaging Laboratories, Department of Medical Biophysics, Robarts Research Institute, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - TianDuo Wang
- Imaging Laboratories, Department of Medical Biophysics, Robarts Research Institute, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - John A Ronald
- Imaging Laboratories, Department of Medical Biophysics, Robarts Research Institute, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada
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10
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Cai HL, Huang YW. Reverse genetics systems for SARS-CoV-2: Development and applications. Virol Sin 2023; 38:837-850. [PMID: 37832720 PMCID: PMC10786661 DOI: 10.1016/j.virs.2023.10.001] [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: 07/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The recent emergence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) caused serious harm to human health and struck a blow to global economic development. Research on SARS-CoV-2 has greatly benefited from the use of reverse genetics systems, which have been established to artificially manipulate the viral genome, generating recombinant and reporter infectious viruses or biosafety level 2 (BSL-2)-adapted non-infectious replicons with desired modifications. These tools have been instrumental in studying the molecular biological characteristics of the virus, investigating antiviral therapeutics, and facilitating the development of attenuated vaccine candidates. Here, we review the construction strategies, development, and applications of reverse genetics systems for SARS-CoV-2, which may be applied to other CoVs as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hou-Li Cai
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Yao-Wei Huang
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China; State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China; Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China.
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11
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Pfeifer BA, Beitelshees M, Hill A, Bassett J, Jones CH. Harnessing synthetic biology for advancing RNA therapeutics and vaccine design. NPJ Syst Biol Appl 2023; 9:60. [PMID: 38036580 PMCID: PMC10689799 DOI: 10.1038/s41540-023-00323-3] [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: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent global events have drawn into focus the diversity of options for combatting disease across a spectrum of prophylactic and therapeutic approaches. The recent success of the mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccines has paved the way for RNA-based treatments to revolutionize the pharmaceutical industry. However, historical treatment options are continuously updated and reimagined in the context of novel technical developments, such as those facilitated through the application of synthetic biology. When it comes to the development of genetic forms of therapies and vaccines, synthetic biology offers diverse tools and approaches to influence the content, dosage, and breadth of treatment with the prospect of economic advantage provided in time and cost benefits. This can be achieved by utilizing the broad tools within this discipline to enhance the functionality and efficacy of pharmaceutical agent sequences. This review will describe how synthetic biology principles can augment RNA-based treatments through optimizing not only the vaccine antigen, therapeutic construct, therapeutic activity, and delivery vector. The enhancement of RNA vaccine technology through implementing synthetic biology has the potential to shape the next generation of vaccines and therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blaine A Pfeifer
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | | | - Andrew Hill
- Pfizer, 66 Hudson Boulevard, New York, NY, 10001, USA
| | - Justin Bassett
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
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12
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Gao J, Chu W, Ding X, Ding L, Guo Q, Fu Y. Degradation Kinetic Studies of BSA@ZIF-8 Nanoparticles with Various Zinc Precursors, Metal-to-Ligand Ratios, and pH Conditions. ACS OMEGA 2023; 8:44601-44610. [PMID: 38046327 PMCID: PMC10688176 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c04973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
Nanosized zeolitic imidazolate framework particles (ZIF-8 nanoparticles [NPs]) have strong potential as effective carriers for both in vivo and in vitro protein drug delivery. Synthesis of ZIF-8 and stability of protein encapsulation within ZIF-8 are affected by several factors, notably the metal ion source and molar ratio. To systematically investigate these factors, we investigated such effects using BSA as a model test protein to synthesize BSA@ZIF-8 NPs at various metal-to-ligand (M:L) ratios. SEM, FTIR, XRD, and DLS were applied to characterize the morphology and structure of BSA@ZIF-8 NPs and their effects on protein loading capacity. Degradation kinetics and protein release behavior of BSA@ZIF-8 NPs were evaluated at pH 5.0 (to simulate the tumor environment) and pH 7.4 (to mimic the blood environment). Our objective was to define optimal combinations of the high protein loading rate and rapid release under varying pH conditions, and we found that (i) the yield of BSA@ZIF-8 NPs decreased as the M:L ratio increased, but the protein content increased. This highlights the need to strike a balance between cost-effectiveness and practicality when selecting ZIF-8 NPs with different molar ratios for protein-based drug formulation. (ii) BSA@ZIF-8 NPs exhibited cruciate flower-like shapes when synthesized using Zn(NO3)2 as the zinc precursor at M:L ratios of 1:16 or 1:20. In all other cases, the NPs displayed a regular rhombic dodecahedral structure. Notably, the release behavior of the NPs did not differ significantly between these morphologies. (iii) When Zn(OAc)2 was used as the zinc precursor, the synthesized ZIF-8 NPs exhibited a smaller size compared to the Zn(NO3)2-derived ZIF-8 NPs. (iv) The release rate and amount of BSA protein were higher at pH 5.0 compared to pH 7.4. (v) Among the different formulations, BSA@ZIF-8 with an M:L ratio of 1:16 at pH 5.0 was observed to have a shorter time to reach a plateau (0.5 h) and higher protein release, making it suitable for locally rapid administration in a tumor environment. BSA@ZIF-8 prepared from Zn(OAc)2 at an M:L ratio of 1:140 showed the slower release of BSA protein over a 24-h period, indicating its suitability for sustained release delivery. In conclusion, our findings provide a useful basis for the practical application of ZIF-8 NPs in protein-based drug delivery systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Gao
- Taizhou
Key Laboratory of Biomass Functional Materials Development and Application,
School of Life Science, Taizhou University, Taizhou, Zhejiang 318000, China
- College
of Life Science and Medicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech
University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China
| | - Wenhui Chu
- Taizhou
Key Laboratory of Biomass Functional Materials Development and Application,
School of Life Science, Taizhou University, Taizhou, Zhejiang 318000, China
| | - Xuankai Ding
- Taizhou
Key Laboratory of Biomass Functional Materials Development and Application,
School of Life Science, Taizhou University, Taizhou, Zhejiang 318000, China
- College
of Life Science and Medicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech
University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China
| | - Lingzhi Ding
- Taizhou
Central Hospital, Taizhou University, Taizhou, Zhejiang 318000, China
| | - Qing Guo
- School
of Biological and Chemical Engineering, Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310023, China
| | - Yongqian Fu
- Taizhou
Key Laboratory of Biomass Functional Materials Development and Application,
School of Life Science, Taizhou University, Taizhou, Zhejiang 318000, China
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Ou Y, Guo S. Safety risks and ethical governance of biomedical applications of synthetic biology. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1292029. [PMID: 37941726 PMCID: PMC10628459 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1292029] [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] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: In recent years, biomedicine has witnessed rapid advancements in applying synthetic biology. While these advancements have brought numerous benefits to patients, they have also given rise to a series of safety concerns. Methods: This article provides a succinct overview of the current research on synthetic biology's application in biomedicine and systematically analyzes the safety risks associated with this field. Based on this analysis, the article proposes fundamental principles for addressing these issues and presents practical recommendations for ethical governance. Results: This article contends that the primary safety risks associated with the application of synthetic biology in biomedicine include participant safety, biosafety risks, and biosecurity risks. In order to effectively address these risks, it is essential to adhere to the principles of human-centeredness, non-maleficence, sustainability, and reasonable risk control. Guided by these fundamental principles and taking into account China's specific circumstances, this article presents practical recommendations for ethical governance, which include strengthening ethical review, promoting the development and implementation of relevant policies, improving legal safeguards through top-level design, and enhancing technical capabilities for biocontainment. Conclusion: As an emerging field of scientific technology, synthetic biology presents numerous safety risks and challenges in its application within biomedicine. In order to address these risks and challenges, it is imperative that appropriate measures be implemented. From a Chinese perspective, the solutions we propose serve not only to advance the domestic development of synthetic biology but also to contribute to its global progress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yakun Ou
- School of Marxism, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Center for Bioethics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Shengjia Guo
- School of Marxism, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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Domingues C, Jarak I, Veiga F, Dourado M, Figueiras A. Pediatric Drug Development: Reviewing Challenges and Opportunities by Tracking Innovative Therapies. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2431. [PMID: 37896191 PMCID: PMC10610377 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15102431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Revised: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The paradigm of pediatric drug development has been evolving in a "carrot-and-stick"-based tactic to address population-specific issues. However, the off-label prescription of adult medicines to pediatric patients remains a feature of clinical practice, which may compromise the age-appropriate evaluation of treatments. Therefore, the United States and the European Pediatric Formulation Initiative have recommended applying nanotechnology-based delivery systems to tackle some of these challenges, particularly applying inorganic, polymeric, and lipid-based nanoparticles. Connected with these, advanced therapy medicinal products (ATMPs) have also been highlighted, with optimistic perspectives for the pediatric population. Despite the results achieved using these innovative therapies, a workforce that congregates pediatric patients and/or caregivers, healthcare stakeholders, drug developers, and physicians continues to be of utmost relevance to promote standardized guidelines for pediatric drug development, enabling a fast lab-to-clinical translation. Therefore, taking into consideration the significance of this topic, this work aims to compile the current landscape of pediatric drug development by (1) outlining the historic regulatory panorama, (2) summarizing the challenges in the development of pediatric drug formulation, and (3) delineating the advantages/disadvantages of using innovative approaches, such as nanomedicines and ATMPs in pediatrics. Moreover, some attention will be given to the role of pharmaceutical technologists and developers in conceiving pediatric medicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cátia Domingues
- Univ Coimbra, Laboratory of Drug Development and Technologies, Faculty of Pharmacy, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (C.D.); (I.J.); (F.V.)
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Drug Development and Technologies, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Univ Coimbra, Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR) Area of Environment Genetics and Oncobiology (CIMAGO), Faculty of Medicine, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal;
| | - Ivana Jarak
- Univ Coimbra, Laboratory of Drug Development and Technologies, Faculty of Pharmacy, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (C.D.); (I.J.); (F.V.)
- Institute for Health Research and Innovation (i3s), University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Francisco Veiga
- Univ Coimbra, Laboratory of Drug Development and Technologies, Faculty of Pharmacy, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (C.D.); (I.J.); (F.V.)
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Drug Development and Technologies, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Marília Dourado
- Univ Coimbra, Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR) Area of Environment Genetics and Oncobiology (CIMAGO), Faculty of Medicine, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal;
- Univ Coimbra, Center for Health Studies and Research of the University of Coimbra (CEISUC), Faculty of Medicine, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Univ Coimbra, Center for Studies and Development of Continuous and Palliative Care (CEDCCP), Faculty of Medicine, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Figueiras
- Univ Coimbra, Laboratory of Drug Development and Technologies, Faculty of Pharmacy, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (C.D.); (I.J.); (F.V.)
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Drug Development and Technologies, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
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Dong X, Wu W, Pan P, Zhang XZ. Engineered Living Materials for Advanced Diseases Therapy. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023:e2304963. [PMID: 37436776 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202304963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023]
Abstract
Natural living materials serving as biotherapeutics exhibit great potential for treating various diseases owing to their immunoactivity, tissue targeting, and other biological activities. In this review, the recent developments in engineered living materials, including mammalian cells, bacteria, viruses, fungi, microalgae, plants, and their active derivatives that are used for treating various diseases are summarized. Further, the future perspectives and challenges of such engineered living material-based biotherapeutics are discussed to provide considerations for future advances in biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Dong
- Institute for Advanced Studies, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, P. R. China
- Medical Center of Hematology, Xinqiao Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400037, P. R. China
| | - Wei Wu
- Medical Center of Hematology, Xinqiao Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400037, P. R. China
| | - Pei Pan
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Polymers of Ministry of Education and Department of Chemistry, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, P. R. China
| | - Xian-Zheng Zhang
- Institute for Advanced Studies, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Polymers of Ministry of Education and Department of Chemistry, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, P. R. China
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