1
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Chen HH, Yu HI, Chang JJS, Li CW, Yang MH, Hung MC, Tarn WY. DDX3 regulates cancer immune surveillance via 3' UTR-mediated cell-surface expression of PD-L1. Cell Rep 2024; 43:113937. [PMID: 38489268 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.113937] [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: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Programmed death-1 (PD-1)/PD ligand-1 (PD-L1)-mediated immune escape contributes to cancer development and has been targeted as an anti-cancer strategy. Here, we show that inhibition of the RNA helicase DDX3 increased CD8+ T cell infiltration in syngeneic oral squamous cell carcinoma tumors. DDX3 knockdown compromised interferon-γ-induced PD-L1 expression and, in particular, reduced the level of cell-surface PD-L1. DDX3 promoted surface PD-L1 expression by recruiting the adaptor protein 2 (AP2) complex to the 3' UTR of PD-L1 mRNA. DDX3 depletion or 3' UTR truncation increased the binding of the coatomer protein complexes to PD-L1, leading to its intracellular accumulation. Therefore, this 3' UTR-dependent mechanism may counteract cellular negative effects on surface trafficking of PD-L1. Finally, pharmaceutic disruption of DDX3's interaction with AP2 reduced surface PD-L1 expression, supporting that the DDX3-AP2 pathway routes PD-L1 to the cell surface. Targeting DDX3 to modulate surface trafficking of immune checkpoint proteins may provide a potential strategy for cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hung-Hsi Chen
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-I Yu
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | | | - Chia-Wei Li
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Muh-Hwa Yang
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming Chao-Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Mien-Chie Hung
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Research Center for Cancer Biology and Center for Molecular Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Woan-Yuh Tarn
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan.
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2
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Qi J, Tan F, Zhang L, Lu L, Zhang S, Zhai Y, Lu Y, Qian X, Dong W, Zhou Y, Zhang Z, Yang X, Jiang L, Yu C, Liu J, Chen T, Wu L, Tan C, Sun S, Song H, Shu Y, Xu L, Gao X, Li H, Chai R. AAV-Mediated Gene Therapy Restores Hearing in Patients with DFNB9 Deafness. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2306788. [PMID: 38189623 PMCID: PMC10953563 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202306788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 11/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
Mutations in OTOFERLIN (OTOF) lead to the autosomal recessive deafness 9 (DFNB9). The efficacy of adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated OTOF gene replacement therapy is extensively validated in Otof-deficient mice. However, the clinical safety and efficacy of AAV-OTOF is not reported. Here, AAV-OTOF is generated using good manufacturing practice and validated its efficacy and safety in mouse and non-human primates in order to determine the optimal injection dose, volume, and administration route for clinical trials. Subsequently, AAV-OTOF is delivered into one cochlea of a 5-year-old deaf patient and into the bilateral cochleae of an 8-year-old deaf patient with OTOF mutations. Obvious hearing improvement is detected by the auditory brainstem response (ABR) and the pure-tone audiometry (PTA) in these two patients. Hearing in the injected ear of the 5-year-old patient can be restored to the normal range at 1 month after AAV-OTOF injection, while the 8-year-old patient can hear the conversational sounds. Most importantly, the 5-year-old patient can hear and recognize speech only through the AAV-OTOF-injected ear. This study is the first to demonstrate the safety and efficacy of AAV-OTOF in patients, expands and optimizes current OTOF-related gene therapy and provides valuable information for further application of gene therapies for deafness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jieyu Qi
- State Key Laboratory of Digital Medical EngineeringDepartment of Otolaryngology Head and Neck SurgeryZhongda HospitalSchool of Life Sciences and TechnologySchool of MedicineAdvanced Institute for Life and HealthJiangsu Province High‐Tech Key Laboratory for Bio‐Medical ResearchSoutheast UniversityNanjing210096China
- Co‐Innovation Center of NeuroregenerationNantong UniversityNantong226001China
- Department of Neurology, Aerospace Center Hospital, School of Life ScienceBeijing Institute of TechnologyBeijing100081China
| | - Fangzhi Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Digital Medical EngineeringDepartment of Otolaryngology Head and Neck SurgeryZhongda HospitalSchool of Life Sciences and TechnologySchool of MedicineAdvanced Institute for Life and HealthJiangsu Province High‐Tech Key Laboratory for Bio‐Medical ResearchSoutheast UniversityNanjing210096China
| | - Liyan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Digital Medical EngineeringDepartment of Otolaryngology Head and Neck SurgeryZhongda HospitalSchool of Life Sciences and TechnologySchool of MedicineAdvanced Institute for Life and HealthJiangsu Province High‐Tech Key Laboratory for Bio‐Medical ResearchSoutheast UniversityNanjing210096China
| | - Ling Lu
- Department of Otolaryngology‐Head and Neck Surgerythe Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical SchoolJiangsu Provincial Key Medical Discipline (Laboratory)Nanjing210008China
| | | | - Yabo Zhai
- School of MedicineSoutheast UniversityNanjing210009China
| | - Yicheng Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Digital Medical EngineeringDepartment of Otolaryngology Head and Neck SurgeryZhongda HospitalSchool of Life Sciences and TechnologySchool of MedicineAdvanced Institute for Life and HealthJiangsu Province High‐Tech Key Laboratory for Bio‐Medical ResearchSoutheast UniversityNanjing210096China
| | - Xiaoyun Qian
- Department of Otolaryngology‐Head and Neck Surgerythe Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical SchoolJiangsu Provincial Key Medical Discipline (Laboratory)Nanjing210008China
| | | | - Yinyi Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Digital Medical EngineeringDepartment of Otolaryngology Head and Neck SurgeryZhongda HospitalSchool of Life Sciences and TechnologySchool of MedicineAdvanced Institute for Life and HealthJiangsu Province High‐Tech Key Laboratory for Bio‐Medical ResearchSoutheast UniversityNanjing210096China
| | - Ziyu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Digital Medical EngineeringDepartment of Otolaryngology Head and Neck SurgeryZhongda HospitalSchool of Life Sciences and TechnologySchool of MedicineAdvanced Institute for Life and HealthJiangsu Province High‐Tech Key Laboratory for Bio‐Medical ResearchSoutheast UniversityNanjing210096China
| | - Xuehan Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Digital Medical EngineeringDepartment of Otolaryngology Head and Neck SurgeryZhongda HospitalSchool of Life Sciences and TechnologySchool of MedicineAdvanced Institute for Life and HealthJiangsu Province High‐Tech Key Laboratory for Bio‐Medical ResearchSoutheast UniversityNanjing210096China
| | - Lulu Jiang
- Otovia Therapeutics IncSuzhou215101China
| | | | | | - Tian Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Digital Medical EngineeringDepartment of Otolaryngology Head and Neck SurgeryZhongda HospitalSchool of Life Sciences and TechnologySchool of MedicineAdvanced Institute for Life and HealthJiangsu Province High‐Tech Key Laboratory for Bio‐Medical ResearchSoutheast UniversityNanjing210096China
| | - Lianqiu Wu
- Otovia Therapeutics IncSuzhou215101China
| | - Chang Tan
- Otovia Therapeutics IncSuzhou215101China
| | - Sijie Sun
- Otovia Therapeutics IncSuzhou215101China
- Fosun Health CapitalShanghai200233China
| | | | - Yilai Shu
- ENT Institute and Department of OtorhinolaryngologyEye & ENT HospitalState Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain ScienceFudan UniversityShanghai200031China
- Institute of Biomedical ScienceFudan UniversityShanghai200032China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Hearing MedicineFudan UniversityShanghai200032China
| | - Lei Xu
- Department of Otolaryngology‐Head and Neck SurgeryShandong Provincial ENT HospitalShandong UniversityJinanShandong250022China
| | - Xia Gao
- Department of Otolaryngology‐Head and Neck Surgerythe Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical SchoolJiangsu Provincial Key Medical Discipline (Laboratory)Nanjing210008China
| | - Huawei Li
- ENT Institute and Department of OtorhinolaryngologyEye & ENT HospitalState Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain ScienceFudan UniversityShanghai200031China
- Institute of Biomedical ScienceFudan UniversityShanghai200032China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Hearing MedicineFudan UniversityShanghai200032China
- The Institutes of Brain Science and the Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain ScienceFudan UniversityShanghai200032China
| | - Renjie Chai
- State Key Laboratory of Digital Medical EngineeringDepartment of Otolaryngology Head and Neck SurgeryZhongda HospitalSchool of Life Sciences and TechnologySchool of MedicineAdvanced Institute for Life and HealthJiangsu Province High‐Tech Key Laboratory for Bio‐Medical ResearchSoutheast UniversityNanjing210096China
- Co‐Innovation Center of NeuroregenerationNantong UniversityNantong226001China
- Department of Neurology, Aerospace Center Hospital, School of Life ScienceBeijing Institute of TechnologyBeijing100081China
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck SurgerySichuan Provincial People's HospitalUniversity of Electronic Science and Technology of ChinaChengdu610072China
- Southeast University Shenzhen Research InstituteShenzhen518063China
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3
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Li L, Shen T, Liu S, Qi J, Zhao Y. Advancements and future prospects of adeno-associated virus-mediated gene therapy for sensorineural hearing loss. Front Neurosci 2024; 18:1272786. [PMID: 38327848 PMCID: PMC10847333 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2024.1272786] [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: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL), a highly prevalent sensory impairment, results from a multifaceted interaction of genetic and environmental factors. As we continually gain insights into the molecular basis of auditory development and the growing compendium of deafness genes identified, research on gene therapy for SNHL has significantly deepened. Adeno-associated virus (AAV), considered a relatively secure vector for gene therapy in clinical trials, can deliver various transgenes based on gene therapy strategies such as gene replacement, gene silencing, gene editing, or gene addition to alleviate diverse types of SNHL. This review delved into the preclinical advances in AAV-based gene therapy for SNHL, spanning hereditary and acquired types. Particular focus is placed on the dual-AAV construction method and its application, the vector delivery route of mouse inner ear models (local, systemic, fetal, and cerebrospinal fluid administration), and the significant considerations in transforming from AAV-based animal model inner ear gene therapy to clinical implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linke Li
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Tian Shen
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Shixi Liu
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jieyu Qi
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Zhongda Hospital, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Advanced Institute for Life and Health, Jiangsu Province High-Tech Key Laboratory for Bio-Medical Research, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yu Zhao
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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4
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Lye J, Delaney DS, Leith FK, Sardesai VS, McLenachan S, Chen FK, Atlas MD, Wong EYM. Recent Therapeutic Progress and Future Perspectives for the Treatment of Hearing Loss. Biomedicines 2023; 11:3347. [PMID: 38137568 PMCID: PMC10741758 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11123347] [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: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Up to 1.5 billion people worldwide suffer from various forms of hearing loss, with an additional 1.1 billion people at risk from various insults such as increased consumption of recreational noise-emitting devices and ageing. The most common type of hearing impairment is sensorineural hearing loss caused by the degeneration or malfunction of cochlear hair cells or spiral ganglion nerves in the inner ear. There is currently no cure for hearing loss. However, emerging frontier technologies such as gene, drug or cell-based therapies offer hope for an effective cure. In this review, we discuss the current therapeutic progress for the treatment of hearing loss. We describe and evaluate the major therapeutic approaches being applied to hearing loss and summarize the key trials and studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joey Lye
- Hearing Therapeutics, Ear Science Institute Australia, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia; (J.L.); (D.S.D.); (F.K.L.); (V.S.S.); (M.D.A.)
- Centre for Ear Sciences, Medical School, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Derek S. Delaney
- Hearing Therapeutics, Ear Science Institute Australia, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia; (J.L.); (D.S.D.); (F.K.L.); (V.S.S.); (M.D.A.)
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin University, Bentley, WA 6102, Australia
| | - Fiona K. Leith
- Hearing Therapeutics, Ear Science Institute Australia, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia; (J.L.); (D.S.D.); (F.K.L.); (V.S.S.); (M.D.A.)
- Centre for Ear Sciences, Medical School, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Varda S. Sardesai
- Hearing Therapeutics, Ear Science Institute Australia, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia; (J.L.); (D.S.D.); (F.K.L.); (V.S.S.); (M.D.A.)
| | - Samuel McLenachan
- Ocular Tissue Engineering Laboratory, Lions Eye Institute, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia; (S.M.); (F.K.C.)
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Fred K. Chen
- Ocular Tissue Engineering Laboratory, Lions Eye Institute, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia; (S.M.); (F.K.C.)
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia
- Vitroretinal Surgery, Royal Perth Hospital, Perth, WA 6000, Australia
- Ophthalmology, Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, East Melbourne, VIC 3002, Australia
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, East Melbourne, VIC 3002, Australia
| | - Marcus D. Atlas
- Hearing Therapeutics, Ear Science Institute Australia, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia; (J.L.); (D.S.D.); (F.K.L.); (V.S.S.); (M.D.A.)
- Centre for Ear Sciences, Medical School, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Elaine Y. M. Wong
- Hearing Therapeutics, Ear Science Institute Australia, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia; (J.L.); (D.S.D.); (F.K.L.); (V.S.S.); (M.D.A.)
- Centre for Ear Sciences, Medical School, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia
- Curtin Medical School, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Bentley, WA 6102, Australia
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5
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Schott JW, Huang P, Morgan M, Nelson-Brantley J, Koehler A, Renslo B, Büning H, Warnecke A, Schambach A, Staecker H. Third-generation lentiviral gene therapy rescues function in a mouse model of Usher 1B. Mol Ther 2023; 31:3502-3519. [PMID: 37915173 PMCID: PMC10727968 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2023.10.018] [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: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 04/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Usher syndrome 1B (USH1B) is a devastating genetic disorder with congenital deafness, loss of balance, and blindness caused by mutations in the myosin-VIIa (MYO7A) gene, for which there is currently no cure. We developed a gene therapy approach addressing the vestibulo-cochlear deficits of USH1B using a third-generation, high-capacity lentiviral vector system capable of delivering the large 6,645-bp MYO7A cDNA. Lentivirally delivered MYO7A and co-encoded dTomato were successfully expressed in the cochlear cell line HEI-OC1. In normal-hearing mice, both cochlea and the vestibular organ were efficiently transduced, and ectopic MYO7A overexpression did not show any adverse effects. In Shaker-1 mice, an USH1B disease model based on Myo7a mutation, cochlear and vestibular hair cells, the main inner ear cell types affected in USH1B, were successfully transduced. In homozygous mutant mice, delivery of MYO7A at postnatal day 16 resulted in a trend for partial recovery of auditory function and in strongly reduced balance deficits. Heterozygous mutant mice were found to develop severe hearing loss at 6 months of age without balance deficits, and lentiviral MYO7A gene therapy completely rescued hearing to wild-type hearing thresholds. In summary, this study demonstrates improved hearing and balance function through lentiviral gene therapy in the inner ear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliane W Schott
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Peixin Huang
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University of Kansas School of Medicine, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
| | - Michael Morgan
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Jennifer Nelson-Brantley
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University of Kansas School of Medicine, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
| | - Ally Koehler
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University of Kansas School of Medicine, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
| | - Bryan Renslo
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University of Kansas School of Medicine, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
| | - Hildegard Büning
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Athanasia Warnecke
- Department of Otolaryngology, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Axel Schambach
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany; Division of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| | - Hinrich Staecker
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University of Kansas School of Medicine, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA.
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6
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Hahn R, Avraham KB. Gene Therapy for Inherited Hearing Loss: Updates and Remaining Challenges. Audiol Res 2023; 13:952-966. [PMID: 38131808 PMCID: PMC10740825 DOI: 10.3390/audiolres13060083] [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: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Hearing loss stands as the most prevalent sensory deficit among humans, posing a significant global health challenge. Projections indicate that by 2050, approximately 10% of the world's population will grapple with disabling hearing impairment. While approximately half of congenital hearing loss cases have a genetic etiology, traditional interventions such as hearing aids and cochlear implants do not completely restore normal hearing. The absence of biological treatment has prompted significant efforts in recent years, with a strong focus on gene therapy to address hereditary hearing loss. Although several studies have exhibited promising recovery from common forms of genetic deafness in mouse models, existing challenges must be overcome to make gene therapy applicable in the near future. Herein, we summarize the primary gene therapy strategies employed over past years, provide an overview of the recent achievements in preclinical studies for genetic hearing loss, and outline the current key obstacles to cochlear gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Karen B. Avraham
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel;
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7
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Petit C, Bonnet C, Safieddine S. Deafness: from genetic architecture to gene therapy. Nat Rev Genet 2023; 24:665-686. [PMID: 37173518 DOI: 10.1038/s41576-023-00597-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Progress in deciphering the genetic architecture of human sensorineural hearing impairment (SNHI) or loss, and multidisciplinary studies of mouse models, have led to the elucidation of the molecular mechanisms underlying auditory system function, primarily in the cochlea, the mammalian hearing organ. These studies have provided unparalleled insights into the pathophysiological processes involved in SNHI, paving the way for the development of inner-ear gene therapy based on gene replacement, gene augmentation or gene editing. The application of these approaches in preclinical studies over the past decade has highlighted key translational opportunities and challenges for achieving effective, safe and sustained inner-ear gene therapy to prevent or cure monogenic forms of SNHI and associated balance disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Petit
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Inserm, Institut de l'Audition, F-75012, Paris, France.
- Collège de France, F-75005, Paris, France.
| | - Crystel Bonnet
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Inserm, Institut de l'Audition, F-75012, Paris, France
| | - Saaïd Safieddine
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Inserm, Institut de l'Audition, F-75012, Paris, France
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, F-75016, Paris, France
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8
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Aaron KA, Pekrun K, Atkinson PJ, Billings SE, Abitbol JM, Lee IA, Eltawil Y, Chen YS, Dong W, Nelson RF, Kay MA, Cheng AG. Selection of viral capsids and promoters affects the efficacy of rescue of Tmprss3-deficient cochlea. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2023; 30:413-428. [PMID: 37663645 PMCID: PMC10471831 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2023.08.004] [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: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated gene transfer has shown promise in rescuing mouse models of genetic hearing loss, but how viral capsid and promoter selection affects efficacy is poorly characterized. Here, we tested combinations of AAVs and promoters to deliver Tmprss3, mutations in which are associated with hearing loss in humans. Tmprss3tm1/tm1 mice display severe cochlear hair cell degeneration, loss of auditory brainstem responses, and delayed loss of spiral ganglion neurons. Under the ubiquitous CAG promoter and AAV-KP1 capsid, Tmprss3 overexpression caused striking cytotoxicity in vitro and in vivo and failed to rescue degeneration or dysfunction of the Tmprss3tm1/tm1 cochlea. Reducing the dosage or using AAV-DJ-CAG-Tmprss3 diminished cytotoxicity without rescue of the Tmprss3tm1/tm1 cochlea. Finally, the combination of AAV-KP1 capsid and the EF1α promoter prevented cytotoxicity and reduced hair cell degeneration, loss of spiral ganglion neurons, and improved hearing thresholds in Tmprss3tm1/tm1 mice. Together, our study illustrates toxicity of exogenous genes and factors governing rescue efficiency, and suggests that cochlear gene therapy likely requires precisely targeted transgene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ksenia A. Aaron
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
- Head and Neck Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Katja Pekrun
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Patrick J. Atkinson
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Sara E. Billings
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Julia M. Abitbol
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Ina A. Lee
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Yasmin Eltawil
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Yuan-Siao Chen
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Wuxing Dong
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Rick F. Nelson
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Mark A. Kay
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Alan G. Cheng
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
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9
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Du W, Ergin V, Loeb C, Huang M, Silver S, Armstrong AM, Huang Z, Gurumurthy CB, Staecker H, Liu X, Chen ZY. Rescue of auditory function by a single administration of AAV-TMPRSS3 gene therapy in aged mice of human recessive deafness DFNB8. Mol Ther 2023; 31:2796-2810. [PMID: 37244253 PMCID: PMC10491991 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2023.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients with mutations in the TMPRSS3 gene suffer from recessive deafness DFNB8/DFNB10. For these patients, cochlear implantation is the only treatment option. Poor cochlear implantation outcomes are seen in some patients. To develop biological treatment for TMPRSS3 patients, we generated a knockin mouse model with a frequent human DFNB8 TMPRSS3 mutation. The Tmprss3A306T/A306T homozygous mice display delayed onset progressive hearing loss similar to human DFNB8 patients. Using AAV2 as a vector to carry a human TMPRSS3 gene, AAV2-hTMPRSS3 injection in the adult knockin mouse inner ear results in TMPRSS3 expression in the hair cells and the spiral ganglion neurons. A single AAV2-hTMPRSS3 injection in Tmprss3A306T/A306T mice of an average age of 18.5 months leads to sustained rescue of the auditory function to a level similar to wild-type mice. AAV2-hTMPRSS3 delivery rescues the hair cells and the spiral ganglions neurons. This study demonstrates successful gene therapy in an aged mouse model of human genetic deafness. It lays the foundation to develop AAV2-hTMPRSS3 gene therapy to treat DFNB8 patients, as a standalone therapy or in combination with cochlear implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wan Du
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Graduate Program in Speech and Hearing Bioscience and Technology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Graduate Program in Neuroscience, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Eaton-Peabody Laboratories, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Volkan Ergin
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Graduate Program in Speech and Hearing Bioscience and Technology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Graduate Program in Neuroscience, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Eaton-Peabody Laboratories, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Corena Loeb
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Graduate Program in Speech and Hearing Bioscience and Technology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Graduate Program in Neuroscience, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Eaton-Peabody Laboratories, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Mingqian Huang
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Graduate Program in Speech and Hearing Bioscience and Technology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Graduate Program in Neuroscience, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Eaton-Peabody Laboratories, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Stewart Silver
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Graduate Program in Speech and Hearing Bioscience and Technology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Graduate Program in Neuroscience, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Eaton-Peabody Laboratories, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Ariel Miura Armstrong
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Graduate Program in Speech and Hearing Bioscience and Technology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Graduate Program in Neuroscience, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Eaton-Peabody Laboratories, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Zaohua Huang
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | | | - Hinrich Staecker
- Kansas University Center for Hearing and Balance Disorders, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
| | - Xuezhong Liu
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA.
| | - Zheng-Yi Chen
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Graduate Program in Speech and Hearing Bioscience and Technology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Graduate Program in Neuroscience, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Eaton-Peabody Laboratories, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
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10
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Jiang L, Wang D, He Y, Shu Y. Advances in gene therapy hold promise for treating hereditary hearing loss. Mol Ther 2023; 31:934-950. [PMID: 36755494 PMCID: PMC10124073 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2023.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Gene therapy focuses on genetic modification to produce therapeutic effects or treat diseases by repairing or reconstructing genetic material, thus being expected to be the most promising therapeutic strategy for genetic disorders. Due to the growing attention to hearing impairment, an increasing amount of research is attempting to utilize gene therapy for hereditary hearing loss (HHL), an important monogenic disease and the most common type of congenital deafness. Several gene therapy clinical trials for HHL have recently been approved, and, additionally, CRISPR-Cas tools have been attempted for HHL treatment. Therefore, in order to further advance the development of inner ear gene therapy and promote its broad application in other forms of genetic disease, it is imperative to review the progress of gene therapy for HHL. Herein, we address three main gene therapy strategies (gene replacement, gene suppression, and gene editing), summarizing the strategy that is most appropriate for particular monogenic diseases based on different pathogenic mechanisms, and then focusing on their successful applications for HHL in preclinical trials. Finally, we elaborate on the challenges and outlooks of gene therapy for HHL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luoying Jiang
- ENT Institute and Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Eye & ENT Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Hearing Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China; Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Daqi Wang
- ENT Institute and Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Eye & ENT Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Hearing Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China; Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Yingzi He
- ENT Institute and Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Eye & ENT Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Hearing Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China.
| | - Yilai Shu
- ENT Institute and Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Eye & ENT Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Hearing Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China; Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.
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11
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Du W, Ergin V, Loeb C, Huang M, Silver S, Armstrong AM, Huang Z, Gurumurthy CB, Staecker H, Liu X, Chen ZY. Rescue of Auditory Function by a Single Administration of AAV- TMPRSS3 Gene Therapy in Aged Mice of Human Recessive Deafness DFNB8. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.02.25.530035. [PMID: 36865298 PMCID: PMC9980176 DOI: 10.1101/2023.02.25.530035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/01/2023]
Abstract
Patients with mutations in the TMPRSS3 gene suffer from recessive deafness DFNB8/DFNB10 for whom cochlear implantation is the only treatment option. Poor cochlear implantation outcomes are seen in some patients. To develop biological treatment for TMPRSS3 patients, we generated a knock-in mouse model with a frequent human DFNB8 TMPRSS3 mutation. The Tmprss3 A306T/A306T homozygous mice display delayed onset progressive hearing loss similar to human DFNB8 patients. Using AAV2 as a vector to carry a human TMPRSS3 gene, AAV2-h TMPRSS3 injection in the adult knock-in mouse inner ears results in TMPRSS3 expression in the hair cells and the spiral ganglion neurons. A single AAV2-h TMPRSS3 injection in aged Tmprss3 A306T/A306T mice leads to sustained rescue of the auditory function, to a level similar to the wildtype mice. AAV2-h TMPRSS3 delivery rescues the hair cells and the spiral ganglions. This is the first study to demonstrate successful gene therapy in an aged mouse model of human genetic deafness. This study lays the foundation to develop AAV2-h TMPRSS3 gene therapy to treat DFNB8 patients, as a standalone therapy or in combination with cochlear implantation.
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12
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Towards the Clinical Application of Gene Therapy for Genetic Inner Ear Diseases. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12031046. [PMID: 36769694 PMCID: PMC9918244 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12031046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Hearing loss, the most common human sensory defect worldwide, is a major public health problem. About 70% of congenital forms and 25% of adult-onset forms of deafness are of genetic origin. In total, 136 deafness genes have already been identified and there are thought to be several hundred more awaiting identification. However, there is currently no cure for sensorineural deafness. In recent years, translational research studies have shown gene therapy to be effective against inherited inner ear diseases, and the application of this technology to humans is now within reach. We provide here a comprehensive and practical overview of current advances in gene therapy for inherited deafness, with and without an associated vestibular defect. We focus on the different gene therapy approaches, considering their prospects, including the viral vector used, and the delivery route. We also discuss the clinical application of the various strategies, their strengths, weaknesses, and the challenges to be overcome.
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13
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Isgrig K, Ishibashi Y, Lee HJ, Zhu J, Grati M, Bennett J, Griffith AJ, Roux I, Chien WW. AAV8BP2 and AAV8 transduce the mammalian cochlear lateral wall and endolymphatic sac with high efficiency. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2022; 26:371-383. [PMID: 36034771 PMCID: PMC9386391 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2022.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Inner ear gene therapy using adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) has been successfully applied to several mouse models of hereditary hearing loss to improve their auditory function. While most inner ear gene therapy studies have focused on the mechanosensory hair cells and supporting cells in the organ of Corti, the cochlear lateral wall and the endolymphatic sac have not garnered much attention. The cochlear lateral wall and the endolymphatic sac play critical roles in inner ear ionic and fluid homeostasis. Mutations in genes expressed in the cochlear lateral wall and the endolymphatic sac are present in a large percentage of patients with hereditary hearing loss. In this study, we examine the transduction patterns and efficiencies of conventional (AAV2 and AAV8) and synthetic (AAV2.7m8, AAV8BP2, and Anc80L65) AAVs in the mouse inner ear. We found that AAV8BP2 and AAV8 are capable of transducing the marginal cells and intermediate cells in the stria vascularis. These two AAVs can also transduce the epithelial cells of the endolymphatic sac. Our data suggest that AAV8BP2 and AAV8 are highly useful viral vectors for gene therapy studies targeting the cochlear lateral wall and the endolymphatic sac.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Isgrig
- Inner Ear Gene Therapy Program, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Yasuko Ishibashi
- Inner Ear Gene Therapy Program, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Hyun Jae Lee
- Otolaryngology Branch, NIDCD, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Jianliang Zhu
- Inner Ear Gene Therapy Program, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Mhamed Grati
- Inner Ear Gene Therapy Program, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Jean Bennett
- Center for Advanced Retinal and Ocular Therapeutics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Andrew J. Griffith
- Otolaryngology Branch, NIDCD, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Tennessee College of Medicine, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Isabelle Roux
- Otolaryngology Branch, NIDCD, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Wade W. Chien
- Inner Ear Gene Therapy Program, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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14
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Genetic insights, disease mechanisms, and biological therapeutics for Waardenburg syndrome. Gene Ther 2022; 29:479-497. [PMID: 33633356 DOI: 10.1038/s41434-021-00240-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Revised: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Waardenburg syndrome (WS), also known as auditory-pigmentary syndrome, is the most common cause of syndromic hearing loss (HL), which accounts for approximately 2-5% of all patients with congenital hearing loss. WS is classified into four subtypes depending on the clinical phenotypes. Currently, pathogenic mutations of PAX3, MITF, SOX10, EDN3, EDNRB or SNAI2 are associated with different subtypes of WS. Although supportive techniques like hearing aids, cochlear implants, or other assistive listening devices can alleviate the HL symptom, there is no cure for WS to date. Recently major progress has been achieved in preclinical studies of genetic HL in animal models, including gene delivery and stem cell replacement therapies. This review focuses on the current understandings of pathogenic mechanisms and potential biological therapeutic approaches for HL in WS, providing strategies and directions for implementing WS biological therapies, as well as possible problems to be faced, in the future.
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15
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Qi J, Fu X, Zhang L, Tan F, Li N, Sun Q, Hu X, He Z, Xia M, Chai R. Current AAV-mediated gene therapy in sensorineural hearing loss. FUNDAMENTAL RESEARCH 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fmre.2022.08.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
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16
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Abstract
Current estimates suggest that nearly half a billion people worldwide are affected by hearing loss. Because of the major psychological, social, economic, and health ramifications, considerable efforts have been invested in identifying the genes and molecular pathways involved in hearing loss, whether genetic or environmental, to promote prevention, improve rehabilitation, and develop therapeutics. Genomic sequencing technologies have led to the discovery of genes associated with hearing loss. Studies of the transcriptome and epigenome of the inner ear have characterized key regulators and pathways involved in the development of the inner ear and have paved the way for their use in regenerative medicine. In parallel, the immense preclinical success of using viral vectors for gene delivery in animal models of hearing loss has motivated the industry to work on translating such approaches into the clinic. Here, we review the recent advances in the genomics of auditory function and dysfunction, from patient diagnostics to epigenetics and gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahar Taiber
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel; ,
| | - Kathleen Gwilliam
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA; ,
| | - Ronna Hertzano
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA; ,
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Karen B Avraham
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel; ,
- Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
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17
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Zhang L, Wang W, Kim SM, Wang J, Zhou B, Kong W, Zheng J, Lin X. Virally Mediated Connexin 26 Expression in Postnatal Scala Media Significantly and Transiently Preserves Hearing in Connexin 30 Null Mice. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:900416. [PMID: 35573684 PMCID: PMC9091169 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.900416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-sensory cells in the sensory epithelium of the cochlea are connected extensively by gap junctions. Functionally null mutations in GJB6 (encoding Cx30) cause hearing loss in humans. In this study, we injected AAV1-CB7-Gjb2 into the scala media between P0-2 in the cochlea of Gjb6−/− mice. The injection increased Cx26 expression and significantly preserved auditory functions. However, the hearing preservation gradually declined and essentially disappeared 3 months after the injections. In contrast, the morphological preservation was still significant at 3 months post-injection. We found that the expression of Cx26, at both the mRNA and protein levels, showed substantial decreases during the 3-month period. Curiously, treatments by injecting AAV1-CB7-Gjb6 with the identical approach failed to yield any hearing preservation. Our results demonstrated the first successful cochlear gene therapy treatment in mouse models by virally expressing a companion gene of Gjb6.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Zhang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Department of Otolaryngology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Department of Cell Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Wenwen Wang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Department of Otolaryngology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Department of Cell Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Sun Myoung Kim
- Department of Otolaryngology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Department of Cell Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Jianjun Wang
- Department of Otolaryngology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Department of Cell Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Binfei Zhou
- Department of Otolaryngology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Department of Cell Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Weijia Kong
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - James Zheng
- Department of Otolaryngology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Department of Cell Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Xi Lin
- Department of Otolaryngology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Department of Cell Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
- *Correspondence: Xi Lin,
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18
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Smirnov VM, Nassisi M, Mohand-Saïd S, Bonnet C, Aubois A, Devisme C, Dib T, Zeitz C, Loundon N, Marlin S, Petit C, Bodaghi B, Sahel JA, Audo I. Retinal Phenotype of Patients with CLRN1-Associated Usher 3A Syndrome in French Light4Deaf Cohort. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2022; 63:25. [PMID: 35481838 PMCID: PMC9055553 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.63.4.25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Biallelic variants in CLRN1 are responsible for Usher syndrome 3A and non-syndromic rod–cone dystrophy (RCD). Retinal findings in Usher syndrome 3A have not been well defined. We report the detailed phenotypic description of RCD associated with CLRN1 variants in a prospective cohort. Methods Patients were clinically investigated at the National Reference Center for rare ocular diseases at the Quinze-Vingts Hospital, Paris, France. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) tests, Goldmann perimetry, full-field electroretinography (ffERG), retinal photography, near-infrared reflectance, short-wavelength and near-infrared autofluorescence, and optical coherence tomography (OCT) were performed for all patients. Results Four patients from four unrelated families were recruited. Mean follow-up was 11 years for three patients, and only baseline data were available for one subject. Median BCVA at baseline was 0.2 logMAR (range, 0.3–0). ffERG responses were undetectable in all subjects. The III4e isopter of the Goldmann visual field was constricted to 10°. The retinal phenotype was consistent in all patients: small whitish granular atrophic areas were organized in a network pattern around the macula and in the midperiphery. OCT showed intraretinal microcysts in all patients. Upon follow-up, all patients experienced a progressive BCVA loss and further visual field constriction. Four distinct pathogenic variants were identified in our patients: two missense (c.144T>G, p.(Asn48Lys) and c.368C>A, p.(Ala123Asp)) and two frameshift variants (c.176del, p.(Gly59Valfs*13) and c.230dup, p.(Ala78Serfs*52)). Conclusions RCD in Usher 3A syndrome has some distinctive features. It is a severe photoreceptor dystrophy with whitish granular posterior pole appearance and cystic maculopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasily M Smirnov
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, Paris, France.,Université de Lille, Faculté de Médecine, Lille, France
| | - Marco Nassisi
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, Paris, France
| | - Saddek Mohand-Saïd
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, Paris, France.,CHNO des Quinze-Vingts, Centre de Référence Maladies Rares REFERET and DHU Sight Restore, INSERM-DGOS CIC1423, Paris, France
| | - Crystel Bonnet
- Unité de Génétique et Physiologie de l'Audition, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France.,Unité Mixte de Recherche en Santé 1120, INSERM, Paris, France.,Institut de l'Audition, Paris, France
| | - Anne Aubois
- CHNO des Quinze-Vingts, Centre de Référence Maladies Rares REFERET and DHU Sight Restore, INSERM-DGOS CIC1423, Paris, France
| | - Céline Devisme
- CHNO des Quinze-Vingts, Centre de Référence Maladies Rares REFERET and DHU Sight Restore, INSERM-DGOS CIC1423, Paris, France
| | - Thilissa Dib
- CHNO des Quinze-Vingts, Centre de Référence Maladies Rares REFERET and DHU Sight Restore, INSERM-DGOS CIC1423, Paris, France
| | - Christina Zeitz
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, Paris, France
| | - Natalie Loundon
- Otorhinolaryngologie Pédiatrique, APHP Hôpital Necker, Paris, France.,Centre de référence des Surdités Génétiques, Service de Génétique, APHP Hôpital Necker, Paris, France
| | - Sandrine Marlin
- Centre de référence des Surdités Génétiques, Service de Génétique, APHP Hôpital Necker, Paris, France
| | - Christine Petit
- Unité de Génétique et Physiologie de l'Audition, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France.,Unité Mixte de Recherche en Santé 1120, INSERM, Paris, France.,Institut de l'Audition, Paris, France.,Collège de France, Paris, France
| | | | - José-Alain Sahel
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, Paris, France.,CHNO des Quinze-Vingts, Centre de Référence Maladies Rares REFERET and DHU Sight Restore, INSERM-DGOS CIC1423, Paris, France.,Fondation Ophtalmologique Adolphe de Rothschild, Paris, France.,Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh Medical School, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States.,Académie des Sciences-Institut de France, Paris, France
| | - Isabelle Audo
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, Paris, France.,CHNO des Quinze-Vingts, Centre de Référence Maladies Rares REFERET and DHU Sight Restore, INSERM-DGOS CIC1423, Paris, France.,Institute of Ophthalmology, University College of London, London, United Kingdom
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19
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The genetic and phenotypic landscapes of Usher syndrome: from disease mechanisms to a new classification. Hum Genet 2022; 141:709-735. [PMID: 35353227 PMCID: PMC9034986 DOI: 10.1007/s00439-022-02448-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Usher syndrome (USH) is the most common cause of deaf–blindness in humans, with a prevalence of about 1/10,000 (~ 400,000 people worldwide). Cochlear implants are currently used to reduce the burden of hearing loss in severe-to-profoundly deaf patients, but many promising treatments including gene, cell, and drug therapies to restore the native function of the inner ear and retinal sensory cells are under investigation. The traditional clinical classification of Usher syndrome defines three major subtypes—USH1, 2 and 3—according to hearing loss severity and onset, the presence or absence of vestibular dysfunction, and age at onset of retinitis pigmentosa. Pathogenic variants of nine USH genes have been initially reported: MYO7A, USH1C, PCDH15, CDH23, and USH1G for USH1, USH2A, ADGRV1, and WHRN for USH2, and CLRN1 for USH3. Based on the co-occurrence of hearing and vision deficits, the list of USH genes has been extended to few other genes, but with limited supporting information. A consensus on combined criteria for Usher syndrome is crucial for the development of accurate diagnosis and to improve patient management. In recent years, a wealth of information has been obtained concerning the properties of the Usher proteins, related molecular networks, potential genotype–phenotype correlations, and the pathogenic mechanisms underlying the impairment or loss of hearing, balance and vision. The advent of precision medicine calls for a clear and more precise diagnosis of Usher syndrome, exploiting all the existing data to develop a combined clinical/genetic/network/functional classification for Usher syndrome.
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20
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Usher syndrome IIIA: a review of the disorder and preclinical research advances in therapeutic approaches. Hum Genet 2022; 141:759-783. [PMID: 35320418 DOI: 10.1007/s00439-022-02446-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Usher syndrome (USH) is an autosomal recessive disorder characterized by sensorineural hearing loss, progressive pigmentary retinopathy, and vestibular dysfunction. The degree and onset of hearing loss vary among subtypes I, II, and III, while blindness often occurs in the second to fourth decades of life. Usher type III (USH3), characterized by postlingual progressive sensorineural hearing loss, varying levels of vestibular dysfunction, and varying degrees of visual impairment, typically manifests in the first to second decades of life. While USH3 is rare, it is highly prevalent in certain populations. RP61, USH3, and USH3A symbolize the same disorder, with the latter symbol used more frequently in recent literature. This review focuses on the clinical features, epidemiology, molecular genetics, treatment, and research advances for sensory deficits in USH3A.
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21
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Velde HM, Reurink J, Held S, Li CHZ, Yzer S, Oostrik J, Weeda J, Haer-Wigman L, Yntema HG, Roosing S, Pauleikhoff L, Lange C, Whelan L, Dockery A, Zhu J, Keegan DJ, Farrar GJ, Kremer H, Lanting CP, Damme M, Pennings RJE. Usher syndrome type IV: clinically and molecularly confirmed by novel ARSG variants. Hum Genet 2022; 141:1723-1738. [PMID: 35226187 PMCID: PMC9556359 DOI: 10.1007/s00439-022-02441-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
AbstractUsher syndrome (USH) is an autosomal recessively inherited disease characterized by sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) and retinitis pigmentosa (RP) with or without vestibular dysfunction. It is highly heterogeneous both clinically and genetically. Recently, variants in the arylsulfatase G (ARSG) gene have been reported to underlie USH type IV. This distinct type of USH is characterized by late-onset RP with predominantly pericentral and macular changes, and late onset SNHL without vestibular dysfunction. In this study, we describe the USH type IV phenotype in three unrelated subjects. We identified three novel pathogenic variants, two novel likely pathogenic variants, and one previously described pathogenic variant in ARSG. Functional experiments indicated a loss of sulfatase activity of the mutant proteins. Our findings confirm that ARSG variants cause the newly defined USH type IV and support the proposed extension of the phenotypic USH classification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hedwig M. Velde
- Hearing and Genes, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Janine Reurink
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Sebastian Held
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Catherina H. Z. Li
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Ophthalmology, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Suzanne Yzer
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Ophthalmology, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Jaap Oostrik
- Hearing and Genes, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Jack Weeda
- Department of Ophthalmology, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Lonneke Haer-Wigman
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Helger G. Yntema
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Susanne Roosing
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Laurenz Pauleikhoff
- Eye Center, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Clemens Lange
- Eye Center, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Laura Whelan
- The School of Genetics and Microbiology, Smurfit Institute of Genetics, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Adrian Dockery
- The School of Genetics and Microbiology, Smurfit Institute of Genetics, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Next Generation Sequencing Laboratory, Pathology Department, The Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Julia Zhu
- Mater Clinical Ophthalmic Genetics Unit, The Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - David J. Keegan
- Mater Clinical Ophthalmic Genetics Unit, The Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - G. Jane Farrar
- The School of Genetics and Microbiology, Smurfit Institute of Genetics, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Hannie Kremer
- Hearing and Genes, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Cornelis P. Lanting
- Hearing and Genes, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Markus Damme
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Ronald J. E. Pennings
- Hearing and Genes, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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22
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Abstract
Usher syndrome (USH) encompasses a group of clinically and genetically heterogenous disorders defined by the triad of sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL), vestibular dysfunction, and vision loss. USH is the most common cause of deaf blindness. USH is divided clinically into three subtypes-USH1, USH2, and USH3-based on symptom severity, progression, and age of onset. The underlying genetics of these USH forms are, however, significantly more complex, with over a dozen genes linked to the three primary clinical subtypes and other atypical USH phenotypes. Several of these genes are associated with other deaf-blindness syndromes that share significant clinical overlap with USH, pointing to the limits of a clinically based classification system. The genotype-phenotype relationships among USH forms also may vary significantly based on the location and type of mutation in the gene of interest. Understanding these genotype-phenotype relationships and associated natural disease histories is necessary for the successful development and application of gene-based therapies and precision medicine approaches to USH. Currently, the state of knowledge varies widely depending on the gene of interest. Recent studies utilizing next-generation sequencing technology have expanded the list of known pathogenic mutations in USH genes, identified new genes associated with USH-like phenotypes, and proposed algorithms to predict the phenotypic effects of specific categories of allelic variants. Further work is required to validate USH gene causality, and better define USH genotype-phenotype relationships and disease natural histories-particularly for rare mutations-to lay the groundwork for the future of USH treatment.
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23
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Gilbert BL, Zhu S, Salameh A, Sun S, Alagramam KN, McDermott BM. Actin Crosslinking Family Protein 7 Deficiency Does Not Impair Hearing in Young Mice. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:709442. [PMID: 34917607 PMCID: PMC8670236 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.709442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
To enable hearing, the sensory hair cell contains specialized subcellular structures at its apical region, including the actin-rich cuticular plate and circumferential band. ACF7 (actin crosslinking family protein 7), encoded by the gene Macf1 (microtubule and actin crosslinking factor 1), is a large cytoskeletal crosslinking protein that interacts with microtubules and filamentous actin to shape cells. ACF7 localizes to the cuticular plate and the circumferential band in the hair cells of vertebrates. The compelling expression pattern of ACF7 in hair cells, combined with conserved roles of this protein in the cytoskeleton of various cell types in invertebrates and vertebrates, led to the hypothesis that ACF7 performs a key function in the subcellular architecture of hair cells. To test the hypothesis, we conditionally target Macf1 in the inner ears of mice. Surprisingly, our data show that in young, but mature, conditional knockout mice cochlear hair cell survival, planar cell polarity, organization of the hair cells within the organ of Corti, and capacity to hear are not significantly impacted. Overall, these results fail to support the hypothesis that ACF7 is an essential hair cell protein in young mice, and the purpose of ACF7 expression in the hair cell remains to be understood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin L Gilbert
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, United States.,Department of Biology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Shaoyuan Zhu
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, United States.,Department of Biology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Ahlam Salameh
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Shenyu Sun
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, United States.,Department of Biology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Kumar N Alagramam
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Brian M McDermott
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, United States.,Department of Biology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States.,Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, United States.,Department of Neurosciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, United States
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24
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Botto C, Dalkara D, El-Amraoui A. Progress in Gene Editing Tools and Their Potential for Correcting Mutations Underlying Hearing and Vision Loss. Front Genome Ed 2021; 3:737632. [PMID: 34778871 PMCID: PMC8581640 DOI: 10.3389/fgeed.2021.737632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Blindness and deafness are the most frequent sensory disorders in humans. Whatever their cause - genetic, environmental, or due to toxic agents, or aging - the deterioration of these senses is often linked to irreversible damage to the light-sensing photoreceptor cells (blindness) and/or the mechanosensitive hair cells (deafness). Efforts are increasingly focused on preventing disease progression by correcting or replacing the blindness and deafness-causal pathogenic alleles. In recent years, gene replacement therapies for rare monogenic disorders of the retina have given positive results, leading to the marketing of the first gene therapy product for a form of childhood hereditary blindness. Promising results, with a partial restoration of auditory function, have also been reported in preclinical models of human deafness. Silencing approaches, including antisense oligonucleotides, adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated microRNA delivery, and genome-editing approaches have also been applied to various genetic forms of blindness and deafness The discovery of new DNA- and RNA-based CRISPR/Cas nucleases, and the new generations of base, prime, and RNA editors offers new possibilities for directly repairing point mutations and therapeutically restoring gene function. Thanks to easy access and immune-privilege status of self-contained compartments, the eye and the ear continue to be at the forefront of developing therapies for genetic diseases. Here, we review the ongoing applications and achievements of this new class of emerging therapeutics in the sensory organs of vision and hearing, highlighting the challenges ahead and the solutions to be overcome for their successful therapeutic application in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Botto
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, Paris, France
| | - Deniz Dalkara
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, Paris, France
| | - Aziz El-Amraoui
- Unit Progressive Sensory Disorders, Pathophysiology and Therapy, Institut Pasteur, Institut de l'Audition, Université de Paris, INSERM-UMRS1120, Paris, France
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25
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Zárybnický T, Heikkinen A, Kangas SM, Karikoski M, Martínez-Nieto GA, Salo MH, Uusimaa J, Vuolteenaho R, Hinttala R, Sipilä P, Kuure S. Modeling Rare Human Disorders in Mice: The Finnish Disease Heritage. Cells 2021; 10:cells10113158. [PMID: 34831381 PMCID: PMC8621025 DOI: 10.3390/cells10113158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The modification of genes in animal models has evidently and comprehensively improved our knowledge on proteins and signaling pathways in human physiology and pathology. In this review, we discuss almost 40 monogenic rare diseases that are enriched in the Finnish population and defined as the Finnish disease heritage (FDH). We will highlight how gene-modified mouse models have greatly facilitated the understanding of the pathological manifestations of these diseases and how some of the diseases still lack proper models. We urge the establishment of subsequent international consortiums to cooperatively plan and carry out future human disease modeling strategies. Detailed information on disease mechanisms brings along broader understanding of the molecular pathways they act along both parallel and transverse to the proteins affected in rare diseases, therefore also aiding understanding of common disease pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomáš Zárybnický
- Stem Cells and Metabolism Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 63, 00014 Helsinki, Finland;
| | - Anne Heikkinen
- Biocenter Oulu, University of Oulu, P.O. Box 5000, 90014 Oulu, Finland; (A.H.); (S.M.K.); (M.H.S.); (R.V.)
- Oulu Center for Cell-Matrix Research, Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Oulu, P.O. Box 8000, 90014 Oulu, Finland
| | - Salla M. Kangas
- Biocenter Oulu, University of Oulu, P.O. Box 5000, 90014 Oulu, Finland; (A.H.); (S.M.K.); (M.H.S.); (R.V.)
- PEDEGO Research Unit, University of Oulu, P.O. Box 8000, 90014 Oulu, Finland;
- Medical Research Center, Oulu University Hospital, University of Oulu, P.O. Box 5000, 90014 Oulu, Finland
| | - Marika Karikoski
- Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, 20520 Turku, Finland; (M.K.); (G.A.M.-N.)
| | - Guillermo Antonio Martínez-Nieto
- Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, 20520 Turku, Finland; (M.K.); (G.A.M.-N.)
- Turku Center for Disease Modelling (TCDM), Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, 20520 Turku, Finland
| | - Miia H. Salo
- Biocenter Oulu, University of Oulu, P.O. Box 5000, 90014 Oulu, Finland; (A.H.); (S.M.K.); (M.H.S.); (R.V.)
- PEDEGO Research Unit, University of Oulu, P.O. Box 8000, 90014 Oulu, Finland;
- Medical Research Center, Oulu University Hospital, University of Oulu, P.O. Box 5000, 90014 Oulu, Finland
| | - Johanna Uusimaa
- PEDEGO Research Unit, University of Oulu, P.O. Box 8000, 90014 Oulu, Finland;
- Medical Research Center, Oulu University Hospital, University of Oulu, P.O. Box 5000, 90014 Oulu, Finland
- Clinic for Children and Adolescents, Division of Pediatric Neurology, Oulu University Hospital, P.O. Box 20, 90029 Oulu, Finland
| | - Reetta Vuolteenaho
- Biocenter Oulu, University of Oulu, P.O. Box 5000, 90014 Oulu, Finland; (A.H.); (S.M.K.); (M.H.S.); (R.V.)
| | - Reetta Hinttala
- Biocenter Oulu, University of Oulu, P.O. Box 5000, 90014 Oulu, Finland; (A.H.); (S.M.K.); (M.H.S.); (R.V.)
- PEDEGO Research Unit, University of Oulu, P.O. Box 8000, 90014 Oulu, Finland;
- Medical Research Center, Oulu University Hospital, University of Oulu, P.O. Box 5000, 90014 Oulu, Finland
- Correspondence: (R.H.); (P.S.); (S.K.)
| | - Petra Sipilä
- Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, 20520 Turku, Finland; (M.K.); (G.A.M.-N.)
- Turku Center for Disease Modelling (TCDM), Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, 20520 Turku, Finland
- Correspondence: (R.H.); (P.S.); (S.K.)
| | - Satu Kuure
- Stem Cells and Metabolism Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 63, 00014 Helsinki, Finland;
- GM-Unit, Laboratory Animal Center, Helsinki Institute of Life Science, University of Helsinki, 00790 Helsinki, Finland
- Correspondence: (R.H.); (P.S.); (S.K.)
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26
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Dinculescu A, Link BA, Saperstein DA. Retinal Gene Therapy for Usher Syndrome: Current Developments, Challenges, and Perspectives. Int Ophthalmol Clin 2021; 61:109-124. [PMID: 34584048 PMCID: PMC8478317 DOI: 10.1097/iio.0000000000000378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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27
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Yoshimura H, Nishio S, Usami S. Milestones toward cochlear gene therapy for patients with hereditary hearing loss. Laryngoscope Investig Otolaryngol 2021; 6:958-967. [PMID: 34693000 PMCID: PMC8513455 DOI: 10.1002/lio2.633] [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: 05/12/2021] [Revised: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
A number of genes are reportedly responsible for hereditary hearing loss, which accounts for over 50% of all congenital hearing loss cases. Recent advances in genetic testing have enabled the identification of pathogenic variants in many cases, and systems have been developed to provide personalized treatment based on etiology. Gene therapy is expected to become an unprecedented curative treatment. Several reports have demonstrated the successful use of cochlear gene therapy to restore auditory function in mouse models of genetic deafness; however, many hurdles remain to its clinical application in humans. Herein, we focus on the frequency of deafness genes in patients with congenital and late-onset progressive hearing loss and discuss the following points regarding which genes need to be targeted to efficiently proceed with clinical application: (a) which cells' genes are expressed within the cochlea, (b) whether gene transfer to the targeted cells is possible using vectors such as adeno-associated virus, (c) what phenotype of hearing loss in patients is exhibited, and (d) whether mouse models exist to verify the effectiveness of treatment. Moreover, at the start of clinical application, gene therapy in combination with cochlear implantation may be useful for cases of progressive hearing loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hidekane Yoshimura
- Department of OtorhinolaryngologyShinshu University School of MedicineMatsumotoNaganoJapan
| | - Shin‐Ya Nishio
- Department of Hearing Implant SciencesShinshu University School of MedicineMatsumotoNaganoJapan
| | - Shin‐Ichi Usami
- Department of Hearing Implant SciencesShinshu University School of MedicineMatsumotoNaganoJapan
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28
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Fuster-García C, García-Bohórquez B, Rodríguez-Muñoz A, Aller E, Jaijo T, Millán JM, García-García G. Usher Syndrome: Genetics of a Human Ciliopathy. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22136723. [PMID: 34201633 PMCID: PMC8268283 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22136723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Usher syndrome (USH) is an autosomal recessive syndromic ciliopathy characterized by sensorineural hearing loss, retinitis pigmentosa and, sometimes, vestibular dysfunction. There are three clinical types depending on the severity and age of onset of the symptoms; in addition, ten genes are reported to be causative of USH, and six more related to the disease. These genes encode proteins of a diverse nature, which interact and form a dynamic protein network called the “Usher interactome”. In the organ of Corti, the USH proteins are essential for the correct development and maintenance of the structure and cohesion of the stereocilia. In the retina, the USH protein network is principally located in the periciliary region of the photoreceptors, and plays an important role in the maintenance of the periciliary structure and the trafficking of molecules between the inner and the outer segments of photoreceptors. Even though some genes are clearly involved in the syndrome, others are controversial. Moreover, expression of some USH genes has been detected in other tissues, which could explain their involvement in additional mild comorbidities. In this paper, we review the genetics of Usher syndrome and the spectrum of mutations in USH genes. The aim is to identify possible mutation associations with the disease and provide an updated genotype–phenotype correlation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Fuster-García
- Molecular, Cellular and Genomics Biomedicine Research Group, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), 46026 Valencia, Spain; (C.F.-G.); (B.G.-B.); (A.R.-M.); (E.A.); (T.J.); (G.G.-G.)
- Unidad Mixta de Enfermedades Raras IIS La Fe-Centro de Investigación Príncipe Felipe, 46026 Valencia, Spain
- Biomedical Research Network for Rare Diseases, Hospital Universitario y Politécnico La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain
| | - Belén García-Bohórquez
- Molecular, Cellular and Genomics Biomedicine Research Group, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), 46026 Valencia, Spain; (C.F.-G.); (B.G.-B.); (A.R.-M.); (E.A.); (T.J.); (G.G.-G.)
- Unidad Mixta de Enfermedades Raras IIS La Fe-Centro de Investigación Príncipe Felipe, 46026 Valencia, Spain
| | - Ana Rodríguez-Muñoz
- Molecular, Cellular and Genomics Biomedicine Research Group, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), 46026 Valencia, Spain; (C.F.-G.); (B.G.-B.); (A.R.-M.); (E.A.); (T.J.); (G.G.-G.)
- Unidad Mixta de Enfermedades Raras IIS La Fe-Centro de Investigación Príncipe Felipe, 46026 Valencia, Spain
| | - Elena Aller
- Molecular, Cellular and Genomics Biomedicine Research Group, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), 46026 Valencia, Spain; (C.F.-G.); (B.G.-B.); (A.R.-M.); (E.A.); (T.J.); (G.G.-G.)
- Unidad Mixta de Enfermedades Raras IIS La Fe-Centro de Investigación Príncipe Felipe, 46026 Valencia, Spain
- Biomedical Research Network for Rare Diseases, Hospital Universitario y Politécnico La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain
- Genetics Unit, Hospital Universitario y Politécnico La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain
| | - Teresa Jaijo
- Molecular, Cellular and Genomics Biomedicine Research Group, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), 46026 Valencia, Spain; (C.F.-G.); (B.G.-B.); (A.R.-M.); (E.A.); (T.J.); (G.G.-G.)
- Unidad Mixta de Enfermedades Raras IIS La Fe-Centro de Investigación Príncipe Felipe, 46026 Valencia, Spain
- Biomedical Research Network for Rare Diseases, Hospital Universitario y Politécnico La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain
- Genetics Unit, Hospital Universitario y Politécnico La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain
| | - José M. Millán
- Molecular, Cellular and Genomics Biomedicine Research Group, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), 46026 Valencia, Spain; (C.F.-G.); (B.G.-B.); (A.R.-M.); (E.A.); (T.J.); (G.G.-G.)
- Unidad Mixta de Enfermedades Raras IIS La Fe-Centro de Investigación Príncipe Felipe, 46026 Valencia, Spain
- Biomedical Research Network for Rare Diseases, Hospital Universitario y Politécnico La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain
- Correspondence:
| | - Gema García-García
- Molecular, Cellular and Genomics Biomedicine Research Group, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), 46026 Valencia, Spain; (C.F.-G.); (B.G.-B.); (A.R.-M.); (E.A.); (T.J.); (G.G.-G.)
- Unidad Mixta de Enfermedades Raras IIS La Fe-Centro de Investigación Príncipe Felipe, 46026 Valencia, Spain
- Biomedical Research Network for Rare Diseases, Hospital Universitario y Politécnico La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain
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29
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Abstract
Congenital hearing loss is the most common birth defect, estimated to affect 2-3 in every 1000 births. Currently there is no cure for hearing loss. Treatment options are limited to hearing aids for mild and moderate cases, and cochlear implants for severe and profound hearing loss. Here we provide a literature overview of the environmental and genetic causes of congenital hearing loss, common animal models and methods used for hearing research, as well as recent advances towards developing therapies to treat congenital deafness. © 2021 The Authors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justine M Renauld
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Martin L Basch
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio.,Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio.,Department of Biology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio.,Department of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery, University Hospitals, Cleveland, Ohio
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30
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Ivanchenko MV, Hanlon KS, Hathaway DM, Klein AJ, Peters CW, Li Y, Tamvakologos PI, Nammour J, Maguire CA, Corey DP. AAV-S: A versatile capsid variant for transduction of mouse and primate inner ear. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2021; 21:382-398. [PMID: 33869656 PMCID: PMC8044388 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2021.03.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Gene therapy strategies using adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors to treat hereditary deafnesses have shown remarkable efficacy in some mouse models of hearing loss. Even so, there are few AAV capsids that transduce both inner and outer hair cells-the cells that express most deafness genes-and fewer still shown to transduce hair cells efficiently in primates. AAV capsids with robust transduction of inner and outer hair cells in primate cochlea will be needed for most clinical trials. Here, we test a capsid that we previously isolated from a random capsid library, AAV-S, for transduction in mouse and non-human primate inner ear. In both mice and cynomolgus macaques, AAV-S mediates highly efficient reporter gene expression in a variety of cochlear cells, including inner and outer hair cells, fibrocytes, and supporting cells. In a mouse model of Usher syndrome type 3A, AAV-S encoding CLRN1 robustly and durably rescues hearing. Overall, our data indicate that AAV-S is a promising candidate for therapeutic gene delivery to the human inner ear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryna V. Ivanchenko
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Killian S. Hanlon
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Molecular Neurogenetics Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, 13 Street, Charlestown, MA 02114, USA
| | - Daniel M. Hathaway
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Alex J. Klein
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Cole W. Peters
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Yaqiao Li
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Panos I. Tamvakologos
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Josette Nammour
- Molecular Neurogenetics Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, 13 Street, Charlestown, MA 02114, USA
| | - Casey A. Maguire
- Molecular Neurogenetics Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, 13 Street, Charlestown, MA 02114, USA
- Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck Street, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - David P. Corey
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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31
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de Joya EM, Colbert BM, Tang PC, Lam BL, Yang J, Blanton SH, Dykxhoorn DM, Liu X. Usher Syndrome in the Inner Ear: Etiologies and Advances in Gene Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:3910. [PMID: 33920085 PMCID: PMC8068832 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22083910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Revised: 04/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hearing loss is the most common sensory disorder with ~466 million people worldwide affected, representing about 5% of the population. A substantial portion of hearing loss is genetic. Hearing loss can either be non-syndromic, if hearing loss is the only clinical manifestation, or syndromic, if the hearing loss is accompanied by a collage of other clinical manifestations. Usher syndrome is a syndromic form of genetic hearing loss that is accompanied by impaired vision associated with retinitis pigmentosa and, in many cases, vestibular dysfunction. It is the most common cause of deaf-blindness. Currently cochlear implantation or hearing aids are the only treatments for Usher-related hearing loss. However, gene therapy has shown promise in treating Usher-related retinitis pigmentosa. Here we review how the etiologies of Usher-related hearing loss make it a good candidate for gene therapy and discuss how various forms of gene therapy could be applied to Usher-related hearing loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evan M. de Joya
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (E.M.J.); (B.M.C.); (P.-C.T.); (S.H.B.)
- Dr. John T. Macdonald Foundation Department of Human Genetics, John P. Hussman Institute for Human Genomics, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA;
| | - Brett M. Colbert
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (E.M.J.); (B.M.C.); (P.-C.T.); (S.H.B.)
- Dr. John T. Macdonald Foundation Department of Human Genetics, John P. Hussman Institute for Human Genomics, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA;
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Pei-Ciao Tang
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (E.M.J.); (B.M.C.); (P.-C.T.); (S.H.B.)
| | - Byron L. Lam
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA;
| | - Jun Yang
- John A. Moran Eye Center, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84132, USA;
| | - Susan H. Blanton
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (E.M.J.); (B.M.C.); (P.-C.T.); (S.H.B.)
- Dr. John T. Macdonald Foundation Department of Human Genetics, John P. Hussman Institute for Human Genomics, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA;
| | - Derek M. Dykxhoorn
- Dr. John T. Macdonald Foundation Department of Human Genetics, John P. Hussman Institute for Human Genomics, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA;
| | - Xuezhong Liu
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (E.M.J.); (B.M.C.); (P.-C.T.); (S.H.B.)
- Dr. John T. Macdonald Foundation Department of Human Genetics, John P. Hussman Institute for Human Genomics, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA;
- Interdisciplinary Stem Cell Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
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Nourbakhsh A, Colbert BM, Nisenbaum E, El-Amraoui A, Dykxhoorn DM, Koehler KR, Chen ZY, Liu XZ. Stem Cells and Gene Therapy in Progressive Hearing Loss: the State of the Art. J Assoc Res Otolaryngol 2021; 22:95-105. [PMID: 33507440 PMCID: PMC7943682 DOI: 10.1007/s10162-020-00781-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Progressive non-syndromic sensorineural hearing loss (PNSHL) is the most common cause of sensory impairment, affecting more than a third of individuals over the age of 65. PNSHL includes noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) and inherited forms of deafness, among which is delayed-onset autosomal dominant hearing loss (AD PNSHL). PNSHL is a prime candidate for genetic therapies due to the fact that PNSHL has been studied extensively, and there is a potentially wide window between identification of the disorder and the onset of hearing loss. Several gene therapy strategies exist that show potential for targeting PNSHL, including viral and non-viral approaches, and gene editing versus gene-modulating approaches. To fully explore the potential of these therapy strategies, a faithful in vitro model of the human inner ear is needed. Such models may come from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). The development of new treatment modalities by combining iPSC modeling with novel and innovative gene therapy approaches will pave the way for future applications leading to improved quality of life for many affected individuals and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aida Nourbakhsh
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1120 NW 14th Street, 5th Floor, Miami, FL 33136 USA
| | - Brett M. Colbert
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1120 NW 14th Street, 5th Floor, Miami, FL 33136 USA
- John P. Hussman Institute for Human Genomics, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136 USA
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136 USA
| | - Eric Nisenbaum
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1120 NW 14th Street, 5th Floor, Miami, FL 33136 USA
| | - Aziz El-Amraoui
- Unit Progressive Sensory Disorders, Institut Pasteur, INSERM-UMRS1120, Sorbonne Université, 25 rue du Dr. Roux, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Derek M. Dykxhoorn
- John P. Hussman Institute for Human Genomics, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136 USA
| | - Karl Russell Koehler
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115 USA
| | - Zheng-yi Chen
- Department of Otology and Laryngology, Harvard Medical School and Eaton-Peabody Laboratory, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Boston, MA 02114 USA
| | - Xue Z. Liu
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1120 NW 14th Street, 5th Floor, Miami, FL 33136 USA
- John P. Hussman Institute for Human Genomics, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136 USA
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Garbaruk ES, Fedorova LA, Savenko IV, Vikhnina SM, Boboshko MY. [Childhood hearing screening: achievements, difficulties, and possible ways to improve]. Vestn Otorinolaringol 2021; 86:82-89. [PMID: 33720658 DOI: 10.17116/otorino20218601182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Hearing impairment is the most common sensory impairment that is seen among adults and children. The frequency of congenital hearing loss is well-known due to implementation of newborn hearing screening. Hearing may change throughout a lifetime due to different factors and, therefore, the number of hearing impaired children increases with age. Introduction of universal newborn hearing screening has enabled earlier detection of hearing loss including unilateral and minimal disorders. Nevertheless, despite significant progress made in this field, there is still a group of hearing impairments that stay undiagnosed timely. Auditory neuropathy spectrum disorders, late-onset hearing loss, low-frequency and minimal hearing impairment are sometimes missed in newborn hearing screening or they manifest later. These types of hearing disorders are covered in detail in this review as well as possible ways of increasing the effectiveness of early diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- E S Garbaruk
- St. Petersburg State Pediatric Medical University, St. Petersburg, Russia.,Pavlov State Medical University, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - L A Fedorova
- St. Petersburg State Pediatric Medical University, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - I V Savenko
- Pavlov State Medical University, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - S M Vikhnina
- Pavlov State Medical University, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - M Yu Boboshko
- Pavlov State Medical University, St. Petersburg, Russia.,North-Western State Medical University named after I.I. Mechnikov, St. Petersburg, Russia
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Bankoti K, Generotti C, Hwa T, Wang L, O'Malley BW, Li D. Advances and challenges in adeno-associated viral inner-ear gene therapy for sensorineural hearing loss. MOLECULAR THERAPY-METHODS & CLINICAL DEVELOPMENT 2021; 21:209-236. [PMID: 33850952 PMCID: PMC8010215 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2021.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
There is growing attention and effort focused on treating the root cause of sensorineural hearing loss rather than managing associated secondary characteristic features. With recent substantial advances in understanding sensorineural hearing-loss mechanisms, gene delivery has emerged as a promising strategy for the biological treatment of hearing loss associated with genetic dysfunction. There are several successful and promising proof-of-principle examples of transgene deliveries in animal models; however, there remains substantial further progress to be made in these avenues before realizing their clinical application in humans. Herein, we review different aspects of development, ongoing preclinical studies, and challenges to the clinical transition of transgene delivery of the inner ear toward the restoration of lost auditory and vestibular function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamakshi Bankoti
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Charles Generotti
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Tiffany Hwa
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Lili Wang
- Department of Medicine, Gene Therapy Program, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Bert W O'Malley
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Daqing Li
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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Ding N, Lee S, Lieber-Kotz M, Yang J, Gao X. Advances in genome editing for genetic hearing loss. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2021; 168:118-133. [PMID: 32387678 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2020.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2019] [Revised: 04/27/2020] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
According to the World Health Organization, hearing loss affects over 466 million people worldwide and is the most common human sensory impairment. It is estimated that genetic factors contribute to the causation of approximately 50% of congenital hearing loss. Yet, curative approaches to reversing or preventing genetic hearing impairment are still limited. The clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats-associated protein 9 (CRISPR-Cas9) systems enable programmable and targeted gene editing in highly versatile manners and offer new gene therapy strategies for genetic hearing loss. Here, we summarize the most common deafness-associated genes, illustrate recent strategies undertaken by using CRISPR-Cas9 systems for targeted gene editing and further compare the CRISPR strategies to non-CRISPR gene therapies. We also examine the merits of different vehicles and delivery forms of genome editing agents. Lastly, we describe the development of animal models that could facilitate the eventual clinical applications of the CRISPR technology to the treatment of genetic hearing diseases.
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Protection of Cochlear Ribbon Synapses and Prevention of Hidden Hearing Loss. Neural Plast 2020; 2020:8815990. [PMID: 33204247 PMCID: PMC7652619 DOI: 10.1155/2020/8815990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2020] [Revised: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
In the auditory system, ribbon synapses are vesicle-associated structures located between inner hair cells (IHCs) and spiral ganglion neurons that are implicated in the modulation of trafficking and fusion of synaptic vesicles at the presynaptic terminals. Synapse loss may result in hearing loss and difficulties with understanding speech in a noisy environment. This phenomenon happens without permanent hearing loss; that is, the cochlear synaptopathy is "hidden." Recent studies have reported that synapse loss might be critical in the pathogenesis of hidden hearing loss. A better understanding of the molecular mechanisms of the formation, structure, regeneration, and protection of ribbon synapses will assist in the design of potential therapeutic strategies. In this review, we describe and summarize the following aspects of ribbon synapses: (1) functional and structural features, (2) potential mechanisms of damage, (3) therapeutic research on protecting the synapses, and (4) the role of synaptic regeneration in auditory neuropathy and the current options for synapse rehabilitation.
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Abstract
The delivery of therapies to the cochlea is notoriously challenging. It is an organ protected by a number of barriers that need to be overcome in the drug delivery process. Additionally, there are multiple sites of possible damage within the cochlea. Despite the many potential sites of damage, acquired otologic insults preferentially damage a single location. While progress has been made in techniques for inner ear drug delivery, the current techniques remain non-specific and our ability to deliver therapies in a cell-specific manner are limited. Fortunately, there are proteins specific to various cell-types within the cochlea (e.g., hair cells, spiral ganglion cells, stria vascularis) that function as biomarkers of site-specific damage. These protein biomarkers have potential to serve as targets for cell-specific inner ear drug delivery. In this manuscript, we review the concept of biomarkers and targeted- inner ear drug delivery and the well-characterized protein biomarkers within each of the locations of interest within the cochlea. Our review will focus on targeted drug delivery in the setting of acquired otologic insults (e.g., ototoxicity, noise-induce hearing loss). The goal is not to discuss therapies to treat acquired otologic insults, rather, to establish potential concepts of how to deliver therapies in a targeted, cell-specific manner. Based on our review, it is clear that future of inner ear drug delivery is a discipline filled with potential that will require collaborative efforts among clinicians and scientists to optimize treatment of otologic insults. Graphical Abstract ![]()
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Whatley M, Francis A, Ng ZY, Khoh XE, Atlas MD, Dilley RJ, Wong EYM. Usher Syndrome: Genetics and Molecular Links of Hearing Loss and Directions for Therapy. Front Genet 2020; 11:565216. [PMID: 33193648 PMCID: PMC7642844 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2020.565216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Usher syndrome (USH) is an autosomal recessive (AR) disorder that permanently and severely affects the senses of hearing, vision, and balance. Three clinically distinct types of USH have been identified, decreasing in severity from Type 1 to 3, with symptoms of sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL), retinitis pigmentosa (RP), and vestibular dysfunction. There are currently nine confirmed and two suspected USH-causative genes, and a further three candidate loci have been mapped. The proteins encoded by these genes form complexes that play critical roles in the development and maintenance of cellular structures within the inner ear and retina, which have minimal capacity for repair or regeneration. In the cochlea, stereocilia are located on the apical surface of inner ear hair cells (HC) and are responsible for transducing mechanical stimuli from sound pressure waves into chemical signals. These signals are then detected by the auditory nerve fibers, transmitted to the brain and interpreted as sound. Disease-causing mutations in USH genes can destabilize the tip links that bind the stereocilia to each other, and cause defects in protein trafficking and stereocilia bundle morphology, thereby inhibiting mechanosensory transduction. This review summarizes the current knowledge on Usher syndrome with a particular emphasis on mutations in USH genes, USH protein structures, and functional analyses in animal models. Currently, there is no cure for USH. However, the genetic therapies that are rapidly developing will benefit from this compilation of detailed genetic information to identify the most effective strategies for restoring functional USH proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meg Whatley
- Ear Science Institute Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Abbie Francis
- Ear Science Institute Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
- Emergency Medicine, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Zi Ying Ng
- Ear Science Institute Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Xin Ee Khoh
- Ear Science Institute Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
- School of Human Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Marcus D. Atlas
- Ear Science Institute Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
- Ear Sciences Centre, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Rodney J. Dilley
- Ear Science Institute Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
- Ear Sciences Centre, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
- Centre for Cell Therapy and Regenerative Medicine, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Elaine Y. M. Wong
- Ear Science Institute Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
- Ear Sciences Centre, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Bentley, WA, Australia
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Toms M, Pagarkar W, Moosajee M. Usher syndrome: clinical features, molecular genetics and advancing therapeutics. Ther Adv Ophthalmol 2020; 12:2515841420952194. [PMID: 32995707 PMCID: PMC7502997 DOI: 10.1177/2515841420952194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Usher syndrome has three subtypes, each being clinically and genetically heterogeneous characterised by sensorineural hearing loss and retinitis pigmentosa (RP), with or without vestibular dysfunction. It is the most common cause of deaf–blindness worldwide with a prevalence of between 4 and 17 in 100 000. To date, 10 causative genes have been identified for Usher syndrome, with MYO7A accounting for >50% of type 1 and USH2A contributing to approximately 80% of type 2 Usher syndrome. Variants in these genes can also cause non-syndromic RP and deafness. Genotype–phenotype correlations have been described for several of the Usher genes. Hearing loss is managed with hearing aids and cochlear implants, which has made a significant improvement in quality of life for patients. While there is currently no available approved treatment for the RP, various therapeutic strategies are in development or in clinical trials for Usher syndrome, including gene replacement, gene editing, antisense oligonucleotides and small molecule drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Toms
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK; The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
| | - Waheeda Pagarkar
- Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK; University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Mariya Moosajee
- Development, Ageing and Disease, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, 11-43 Bath Street, London EC1V 9EL, UK
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Morgan M, Schott JW, Rossi A, Landgraf C, Warnecke A, Staecker H, Lesinski-Schiedat A, Schlegelberger B, Büning H, Auber B, Schambach A. Gene therapy as a possible option to treat hereditary hearing loss. MED GENET-BERLIN 2020. [DOI: 10.1515/medgen-2020-2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
The process of hearing involves a series of events. The energy of sound is captured by the outer ear and further transferred through the external auditory canal to the middle ear. In the middle ear, sound waves are converted into movements of the tympanic membrane and the ossicles, thereby amplifying the pressure so that it is sufficient to cause movement of the cochlear fluid. The traveling wave within the cochlea leads to depolarization of the inner ear hair cells that, in turn, release the neurotransmitter glutamate. Thereby, the spiral ganglion neurons are activated to transfer the signals via the auditory pathway to the primary auditory cortex. This complex combination of mechanosensory and physiological mechanisms involves many distinct types of cells, the function of which are impacted by numerous proteins, including those involved in ion channel activity, signal transduction and transcription. In the last 30 years, pathogenic variants in over 150 genes were found to be linked to hearing loss. Hearing loss affects over 460 million people world-wide, and current treatment approaches, such as hearing aids and cochlear implants, serve to improve hearing capacity but do not address the underlying genetic cause of hearing loss. Therefore, therapeutic strategies designed to correct the genetic defects causative for hearing loss offer the possibility to treat these patients. In this review, we will discuss genetic causes of hearing loss, novel gene therapeutic strategies to correct hearing loss due to gene defects and some of the preclinical studies in hearing loss animal models as well as the clinical translation of gene therapy approaches to treat hearing loss patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Morgan
- Institute of Experimental Hematology , Hannover Medical School , Hannover , Germany
- REBIRTH Research Center for Translational Regenerative Medicine , Hannover Medical School , Hannover , Germany
| | - Juliane W. Schott
- Institute of Experimental Hematology , Hannover Medical School , Hannover , Germany
- REBIRTH Research Center for Translational Regenerative Medicine , Hannover Medical School , Hannover , Germany
| | - Axel Rossi
- Institute of Experimental Hematology , Hannover Medical School , Hannover , Germany
- REBIRTH Research Center for Translational Regenerative Medicine , Hannover Medical School , Hannover , Germany
| | - Christian Landgraf
- Department of Human Genetics , Hannover Medical School , Hannover , Germany
| | - Athanasia Warnecke
- Department of Otolaryngology , Hannover Medical School , Hannover , Germany
- Hearing4all Cluster of Excellence , Hannover Medical School , Hannover , Germany
| | - Hinrich Staecker
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery , University of Kansas School of Medicine , Kansas City , USA
| | - Anke Lesinski-Schiedat
- Department of Otolaryngology , Hannover Medical School , Hannover , Germany
- Hearing4all Cluster of Excellence , Hannover Medical School , Hannover , Germany
| | | | - Hildegard Büning
- Institute of Experimental Hematology , Hannover Medical School , Hannover , Germany
- REBIRTH Research Center for Translational Regenerative Medicine , Hannover Medical School , Hannover , Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF) , partner site Hannover-Braunschweig , Braunschweig , Germany
| | - Bernd Auber
- Department of Human Genetics , Hannover Medical School , Hannover , Germany
| | - Axel Schambach
- Institute of Experimental Hematology , Hannover Medical School , Carl-Neuberg-Str.1 , Hannover , Germany
- REBIRTH Research Center for Translational Regenerative Medicine , Hannover Medical School , Hannover , Germany
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children’s Hospital , Harvard Medical School , Boston , MA , USA
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Askew C, Chien WW. Adeno-associated virus gene replacement for recessive inner ear dysfunction: Progress and challenges. Hear Res 2020; 394:107947. [PMID: 32247629 DOI: 10.1016/j.heares.2020.107947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2019] [Revised: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 03/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Approximately 3 in 1000 children in the US under 4 years of age are affected by hearing loss. Currently, cochlear implants represent the only line of treatment for patients with severe to profound hearing loss, and there are no targeted drug or biological based therapies available. Gene replacement is a promising therapeutic approach for hereditary hearing loss, where viral vectors are used to deliver functional cDNA to "replace" defective genes in dysfunctional cells in the inner ear. Proof-of-concept studies have successfully used this approach to improve auditory function in mouse models of hereditary hearing loss, and human clinical trials are on the immediate horizon. The success of this method is ultimately determined by the underlying biology of the defective gene and design of the treatment strategy, relying on intervention before degeneration of the sensory structures occurs. A challenge will be the delivery of a corrective gene to the proper target within the therapeutic window of opportunity, which may be unique for each specific defective gene. Although rescue of pre-lingual forms of recessive deafness have been explored in animal models thus far, future identification of genes with post-lingual onset that are amenable to gene replacement holds even greater promise for treatment, since the therapeutic window is likely open for a much longer period of time. This review summarizes the current state of adeno-associated virus (AAV) gene replacement therapy for recessive hereditary hearing loss and discusses potential challenges and opportunities for translating inner ear gene replacement therapy for patients with hereditary hearing loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles Askew
- Gene Therapy Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Wade W Chien
- Inner Ear Gene Therapy Program, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA; Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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42
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Akil O. Dual and triple AAV delivery of large therapeutic gene sequences into the inner ear. Hear Res 2020; 394:107912. [DOI: 10.1016/j.heares.2020.107912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2019] [Revised: 02/04/2020] [Accepted: 02/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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Inner Ear Gene Therapies Take Off: Current Promises and Future Challenges. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9072309. [PMID: 32708116 PMCID: PMC7408650 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9072309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2020] [Revised: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Hearing impairment is the most frequent sensory deficit in humans of all age groups, from children (1/500) to the elderly (more than 50% of the over-75 s). Over 50% of congenital deafness are hereditary in nature. The other major causes of deafness, which also may have genetic predisposition, are aging, acoustic trauma, ototoxic drugs such as aminoglycosides, and noise exposure. Over the last two decades, the study of inherited deafness forms and related animal models has been instrumental in deciphering the molecular, cellular, and physiological mechanisms of disease. However, there is still no curative treatment for sensorineural deafness. Hearing loss is currently palliated by rehabilitation methods: conventional hearing aids, and for more severe forms, cochlear implants. Efforts are continuing to improve these devices to help users to understand speech in noisy environments and to appreciate music. However, neither approach can mediate a full recovery of hearing sensitivity and/or restoration of the native inner ear sensory epithelia. New therapeutic approaches based on gene transfer and gene editing tools are being developed in animal models. In this review, we focus on the successful restoration of auditory and vestibular functions in certain inner ear conditions, paving the way for future clinical applications.
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Thorpe RK, Smith RJH. Future directions for screening and treatment in congenital hearing loss. PRECISION CLINICAL MEDICINE 2020; 3:175-186. [PMID: 33209510 PMCID: PMC7653508 DOI: 10.1093/pcmedi/pbaa025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2020] [Revised: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hearing loss is the most common neurosensory deficit. It results from a variety of heritable and acquired causes and is linked to multiple deleterious effects on a child's development that can be ameliorated by prompt identification and individualized therapies. Diagnosing hearing loss in newborns is challenging, especially in mild or progressive cases, and its management requires a multidisciplinary team of healthcare providers comprising audiologists, pediatricians, otolaryngologists, and genetic counselors. While physiologic newborn hearing screening has resulted in earlier diagnosis of hearing loss than ever before, a growing body of knowledge supports the concurrent implementation of genetic and cytomegalovirus testing to offset the limitations inherent to a singular screening modality. In this review, we discuss the contemporary role of screening for hearing loss in newborns as well as future directions in its diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan K Thorpe
- Molecular Otolaryngology and Renal Research Laboratories, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, 375 Newton Rd, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Richard J H Smith
- Molecular Otolaryngology and Renal Research Laboratories, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, 375 Newton Rd, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
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45
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French LS, Mellough CB, Chen FK, Carvalho LS. A Review of Gene, Drug and Cell-Based Therapies for Usher Syndrome. Front Cell Neurosci 2020; 14:183. [PMID: 32733204 PMCID: PMC7363968 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2020.00183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Usher syndrome is a genetic disorder causing neurosensory hearing loss and blindness from retinitis pigmentosa (RP). Adaptive techniques such as braille, digital and optical magnifiers, mobility training, cochlear implants, or other assistive listening devices are indispensable for reducing disability. However, there is currently no treatment to reduce or arrest sensory cell degeneration. There are several classes of treatments for Usher syndrome being investigated. The present article reviews the progress this research has made towards delivering commercial options for patients with Usher syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy S French
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences (incorporating Lions Eye Institute), The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Carla B Mellough
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences (incorporating Lions Eye Institute), The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Fred K Chen
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences (incorporating Lions Eye Institute), The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia.,Department of Ophthalmology, Royal Perth Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia.,Department of Ophthalmology, Perth Children's Hospital, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Livia S Carvalho
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences (incorporating Lions Eye Institute), The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
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Lan Y, Tao Y, Wang Y, Ke J, Yang Q, Liu X, Su B, Wu Y, Lin CP, Zhong G. Recent development of AAV-based gene therapies for inner ear disorders. Gene Ther 2020; 27:329-337. [PMID: 32424232 PMCID: PMC7445886 DOI: 10.1038/s41434-020-0155-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Revised: 04/12/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Gene therapy for auditory diseases is gradually maturing. Recent progress in gene therapy treatments for genetic and acquired hearing loss has demonstrated the feasibility in animal models. However, a number of hurdles, such as lack of safe viral vector with high efficiency and specificity, robust deafness large animal models, translating animal studies to clinic etc., still remain to be solved. It is necessary to overcome these challenges in order to effectively recover auditory function in human patients. Here, we review the progress made in our group, especially our efforts to make more effective and cell type-specific viral vectors for targeting cochlea cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiyang Lan
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China.,School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Yong Tao
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Yunfeng Wang
- ENT institute and Otorhinolaryngology Department of Eye & ENT Hospital, NHC Key Laboratory of Hearing Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Junzi Ke
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China.,School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Qiuxiang Yang
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China.,School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Xiaoyi Liu
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China.,School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Bing Su
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China.,School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Yiling Wu
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Chao-Po Lin
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Guisheng Zhong
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China. .,School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China.
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Leake PA, Akil O, Lang H. Neurotrophin gene therapy to promote survival of spiral ganglion neurons after deafness. Hear Res 2020; 394:107955. [PMID: 32331858 DOI: 10.1016/j.heares.2020.107955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2019] [Revised: 03/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Hearing impairment is a major health and economic concern worldwide. Currently, the cochlear implant (CI) is the standard of care for remediation of severe to profound hearing loss, and in general, contemporary CIs are highly successful. But there is great variability in outcomes among individuals, especially in children, with many CI users deriving much less or even marginal benefit. Much of this variability is related to differences in auditory nerve survival, and there has been substantial interest in recent years in exploring potential therapies to improve survival of the cochlear spiral ganglion neurons (SGN) after deafness. Preclinical studies using osmotic pumps and other approaches in deafened animal models to deliver neurotrophic factors (NTs) directly to the cochlea have shown promising results, especially with Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF). More recent studies have focused on the use of NT gene therapy to force expression of NTs by target cells within the cochlea. This could provide the means for a one-time treatment to promote long-term NT expression and improve neural survival after deafness. This review summarizes the evidence for the efficacy of exogenous NTs in preventing SGN degeneration after hearing loss and reviews the animal research to date suggesting that NT gene therapy can elicit long-term NT expression in the cochlea, resulting in significantly improved SGN and radial nerve fiber survival after deafness. In addition, we discuss NT gene therapy in other non-auditory applications and consider some of the remaining issues with regard to selecting optimal vectors, timing of treatment, and place/method of delivery, etc. that must be resolved prior to considering clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia A Leake
- S & I Epstein Laboratory, Dept. of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, University of California San Francisco, 2340 Sutter Street, Room N331, San Francisco, CA, 94115-1330, USA.
| | - Omar Akil
- S & I Epstein Laboratory, Dept. of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, University of California San Francisco, 2340 Sutter Street, Room N331, San Francisco, CA, 94115-1330, USA
| | - Hainan Lang
- Dept. of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, 165 Ashley Avenue, Room RS613, Charleston, SC, 29414, USA
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48
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Fetal gene therapy and pharmacotherapy to treat congenital hearing loss and vestibular dysfunction. Hear Res 2020; 394:107931. [PMID: 32173115 DOI: 10.1016/j.heares.2020.107931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2019] [Revised: 02/24/2020] [Accepted: 02/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Disabling hearing loss is expected to affect over 900 million people worldwide by 2050. The World Health Organization estimates that the annual economic impact of hearing loss globally is US$ 750 billion. The inability to hear may complicate effective interpersonal communication and negatively impact personal and professional relationships. Recent advances in the genetic diagnosis of inner ear disease have keenly focused attention on strategies to restore hearing and balance in individuals with defined gene mutations. Mouse models of human hearing loss serve as the primary approach to test gene therapies and pharmacotherapies. The goal of this review is to articulate the rationale for fetal gene therapy and pharmacotherapy to treat congenital hearing loss and vestibular dysfunction. The differential onset of hearing in mice and humans suggests that a prenatal window of therapeutic efficacy in humans may be optimal to restore sensory function. Mouse studies demonstrating the utility of early fetal intervention in the inner ear show promise. We focus on the modulation of gene expression through two strategies that have successfully treated deafness in animal models and have had clinical success for other conditions in humans: gene replacement and antisense oligonucleotide-mediated modulation of gene expression. The recent establishment of effective therapies targeting the juvenile and adult mouse provide informative counterexamples where intervention in the maturing and fully functional mouse inner ear may be effective. Distillation of the current literature leads to the conclusion that novel therapeutic strategies to treat genetic deafness and imbalance will soon translate to clinical trials.
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Géléoc GGS, El-Amraoui A. Disease mechanisms and gene therapy for Usher syndrome. Hear Res 2020; 394:107932. [PMID: 32199721 DOI: 10.1016/j.heares.2020.107932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2019] [Revised: 02/03/2020] [Accepted: 02/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Usher syndrome (USH) is a major cause of deaf-blindness in humans, affecting ∼400 000 patients worldwide. Three clinical subtypes, USH1-3, have been defined, with 10 USH genes identified so far. In recent years, in addition to identification of new Usher genes and diagnostic tools, major progress has been made in understanding the role of Usher proteins and how they cooperate through interaction networks to ensure proper development, architecture and function of the stereociliary bundle at the apex of sensory hair cells in the inner ear. Several Usher mouse models of known human Usher genes have been characterized. These mice faithfully reproduce the auditory phenotype associated with Usher syndrome and the vestibular phenotype associated with some mutations in USH genes, particularly USH1. Interestingly, very few mouse models of Usher syndrome recapitulate the retinal phenotype associated with the disease in human. Usher patients can benefit from hearing aids or cochlear implants, which partially alleviate auditory sensory deprivation. However, there are currently no biological treatments available for auditory or visual dysfunction in Usher patients. Development of novel therapies for Usher syndrome has sprouted over the past decade, building on recent progress in gene transfer and new gene editing tools. Promising success demonstrating recovery of hearing and balance functions have been obtained via distinct therapeutic strategies in animal models. Clinical translation to Usher patients, however, calls for further improvements and concerted efforts to overcome the challenges ahead.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gwenaelle G S Géléoc
- Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, 3, Blackfan circle, Center for Life Science, 03001, Boston, MA, 02115, United States.
| | - Aziz El-Amraoui
- Unit Progressive Sensory Disorders, Institut Pasteur, INSERM-UMRS1120, Sorbonne Université, 25 rue du Dr. Roux, 75015, Paris, France.
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50
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Maguire CA, Corey DP. Viral vectors for gene delivery to the inner ear. Hear Res 2020; 394:107927. [PMID: 32199720 DOI: 10.1016/j.heares.2020.107927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2019] [Revised: 02/13/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Gene therapy using virus vectors to treat hereditary diseases has made remarkable progress in the past decade. There are FDA-approved products for ex-vivo gene therapy for diseases such as immunodeficiencies (e.g., SCID), and in vivo gene therapy for a rare blindness and neuro-muscular disease. Gene therapy for hereditary hearing loss has picked up pace in the past five years due to progress in understanding disease gene function as well as the development of better technologies such as adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors, to deliver nucleic acid to target cells in the inner ear. This review has two major goals. One is to review the state of the art for investigators already working in preclinical cochlear gene therapy. The other is to present the language of vectorology and important considerations for designing and using AAV vectors to inner ear neurobiologists who might use AAV vectors in the cochlea for either therapeutic or basic biological applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Casey A Maguire
- Molecular Neurogenetics Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, 149 13th Street, Charlestown, MA, 02114, USA; Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
| | - David P Corey
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
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