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Huang L, Tang W, He L, Li M, Lin X, Hu A, Huang X, Wu Z, Wu Z, Chen S, Hu Y. Engineered probiotic Escherichia coli elicits immediate and long-term protection against influenza A virus in mice. Nat Commun 2024; 15:6802. [PMID: 39122688 PMCID: PMC11315933 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-51182-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 07/31/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Influenza virus infection remains a major global health problem and requires a universal vaccine with broad protection against different subtypes as well as a rapid-response vaccine to provide immediate protection in the event of an epidemic outbreak. Here, we show that intranasal administration of probiotic Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 activates innate immunity in the respiratory tract and provides immediate protection against influenza virus infection within 1 day. Based on this vehicle, a recombinant strain is engineered to express and secret five tandem repeats of the extracellular domain of matrix protein 2 from different influenza virus subtypes. Intranasal vaccination with this strain induces durable humoral and mucosal responses in the respiratory tract, and provides broad protection against the lethal challenge of divergent influenza viruses in female BALB/c mice. Our findings highlight a promising delivery platform for developing mucosal vaccines that provide immediate and sustained protection against respiratory pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Huang
- Key Laboratory of Virology and Biosafety, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Wei Tang
- Key Laboratory of Virology and Biosafety, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Lina He
- Key Laboratory of Virology and Biosafety, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Mengke Li
- Key Laboratory of Virology and Biosafety, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Xian Lin
- Key Laboratory of Virology and Biosafety, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Hubei JiangXia Laboratory, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Ao Hu
- Key Laboratory of Virology and Biosafety, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Xindi Huang
- Key Laboratory of Virology and Biosafety, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Zhouyu Wu
- Key Laboratory of Virology and Biosafety, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Zhiyong Wu
- Key Laboratory of Virology and Biosafety, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Shiyun Chen
- Key Laboratory of Virology and Biosafety, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China.
| | - Yangbo Hu
- Key Laboratory of Virology and Biosafety, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China.
- Hubei JiangXia Laboratory, Wuhan, 430071, China.
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Fuhri Snethlage CM, de Wit D, Wortelboer K, Rampanelli E, Hanssen NMJ, Nieuwdorp M. Can fecal microbiota transplantations modulate autoimmune responses in type 1 diabetes? Immunol Rev 2024; 325:46-63. [PMID: 38752578 DOI: 10.1111/imr.13345] [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] [Indexed: 08/22/2024]
Abstract
Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a chronic autoimmune disease targeting insulin-producing pancreatic beta cells. T1D is a multifactorial disease incorporating genetic and environmental factors. In recent years, the advances in high-throughput sequencing have allowed researchers to elucidate the changes in the gut microbiota taxonomy and functional capacity that accompany T1D development. An increasing number of studies have shown a role of the gut microbiota in mediating immune responses in health and disease, including autoimmunity. Fecal microbiota transplantations (FMT) have been largely used in murine models to prove a causal role of the gut microbiome in disease progression and have been shown to be a safe and effective treatment in inflammatory human diseases. In this review, we summarize and discuss recent research regarding the gut microbiota-host interactions in T1D, the current advancement in therapies for T1D, and the usefulness of FMT studies to explore microbiota-host immunity encounters in murine models and to shape the course of human type 1 diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Coco M Fuhri Snethlage
- Department of Internal and Vascular Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Location AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Douwe de Wit
- Department of Internal and Vascular Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Location AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Koen Wortelboer
- Department of Internal and Vascular Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Location AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Elena Rampanelli
- Department of Internal and Vascular Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Location AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity (AII), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Nordin M J Hanssen
- Department of Internal and Vascular Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Location AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Diabeter Center, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Max Nieuwdorp
- Department of Internal and Vascular Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Location AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Diabeter Center, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Lin X, Jiao R, Cui H, Yan X, Zhang K. Physiochemically and Genetically Engineered Bacteria: Instructive Design Principles and Diverse Applications. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2403156. [PMID: 38864372 PMCID: PMC11321697 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202403156] [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: 03/26/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
With the comprehensive understanding of microorganisms and the rapid advances of physiochemical engineering and bioengineering technologies, scientists are advancing rationally-engineered bacteria as emerging drugs for treating various diseases in clinical disease management. Engineered bacteria specifically refer to advanced physiochemical or genetic technologies in combination with cutting edge nanotechnology or physical technologies, which have been validated to play significant roles in lysing tumors, regulating immunity, influencing the metabolic pathways, etc. However, there has no specific reviews that concurrently cover physiochemically- and genetically-engineered bacteria and their derivatives yet, let alone their distinctive design principles and various functions and applications. Herein, the applications of physiochemically and genetically-engineered bacteria, and classify and discuss significant breakthroughs with an emphasis on their specific design principles and engineering methods objective to different specific uses and diseases beyond cancer is described. The combined strategies for developing in vivo biotherapeutic agents based on these physiochemically- and genetically-engineered bacteria or bacterial derivatives, and elucidated how they repress cancer and other diseases is also underlined. Additionally, the challenges faced by clinical translation and the future development directions are discussed. This review is expected to provide an overall impression on physiochemically- and genetically-engineered bacteria and enlighten more researchers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xia Lin
- Central Laboratory and Department of UltrasoundSichuan Academy of Medical SciencesSichuan Provincial People's HospitalSchool of MedicineUniversity of Electronic Science and Technology of ChinaNo. 32, West Second Section, First Ring RoadChengduSichuan610072China
| | - Rong Jiao
- Central Laboratory and Department of UltrasoundSichuan Academy of Medical SciencesSichuan Provincial People's HospitalSchool of MedicineUniversity of Electronic Science and Technology of ChinaNo. 32, West Second Section, First Ring RoadChengduSichuan610072China
| | - Haowen Cui
- Central Laboratory and Department of UltrasoundSichuan Academy of Medical SciencesSichuan Provincial People's HospitalSchool of MedicineUniversity of Electronic Science and Technology of ChinaNo. 32, West Second Section, First Ring RoadChengduSichuan610072China
| | - Xuebing Yan
- Department of OncologyAffiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University. No.368Hanjiang Road, Hanjiang DistrictYangzhouJiangsu Province225012China
| | - Kun Zhang
- Central Laboratory and Department of UltrasoundSichuan Academy of Medical SciencesSichuan Provincial People's HospitalSchool of MedicineUniversity of Electronic Science and Technology of ChinaNo. 32, West Second Section, First Ring RoadChengduSichuan610072China
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Dey S, Sankaran S. Engineered bacterial therapeutics with material solutions. Trends Biotechnol 2024:S0167-7799(24)00174-4. [PMID: 39030122 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2024.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2024] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/21/2024]
Abstract
Recent advances in engineered bacterial therapeutics underscore their potential in treating diseases via targeted, live interventions. Despite their promising performance in early clinical phases, no engineered therapeutic bacteria have yet received approval, primarily due to challenges in proving efficacy while ensuring biosafety. Material science innovations, particularly the encapsulation of bacteria within hydrogels, present a promising avenue to enhance bacterial survival, efficacy, and safety in therapeutic applications. This review discusses this interdisciplinary approach to develop living therapeutic materials. Hydrogels not only safeguard the bacteria from harsh physiological conditions but also enable controlled therapeutic release and prevent unintended bacterial dissemination. The strategic use of encapsulation materials could redefine the delivery and functionality of engineered bacterial therapeutics, facilitating their clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sourik Dey
- INM - Leibniz Institute for New Materials, Campus D2 2, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany
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5
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Milella MS, Geminiani M, Trezza A, Visibelli A, Braconi D, Santucci A. Alkaptonuria: From Molecular Insights to a Dedicated Digital Platform. Cells 2024; 13:1072. [PMID: 38920699 PMCID: PMC11201470 DOI: 10.3390/cells13121072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2024] [Revised: 06/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Alkaptonuria (AKU) is a genetic disorder that affects connective tissues of several body compartments causing cartilage degeneration, tendon calcification, heart problems, and an invalidating, early-onset form of osteoarthritis. The molecular mechanisms underlying AKU involve homogentisic acid (HGA) accumulation in cells and tissues. HGA is highly reactive, able to modify several macromolecules, and activates different pathways, mostly involved in the onset and propagation of oxidative stress and inflammation, with consequences spreading from the microscopic to the macroscopic level leading to irreversible damage. Gaining a deeper understanding of AKU molecular mechanisms may provide novel possible therapeutical approaches to counteract disease progression. In this review, we first describe inflammation and oxidative stress in AKU and discuss similarities with other more common disorders. Then, we focus on HGA reactivity and AKU molecular mechanisms. We finally describe a multi-purpose digital platform, named ApreciseKUre, created to facilitate data collection, integration, and analysis of AKU-related data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Serena Milella
- ONE-HEALTH Lab, Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (M.S.M.); (A.T.); (A.V.); (D.B.); (A.S.)
| | - Michela Geminiani
- ONE-HEALTH Lab, Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (M.S.M.); (A.T.); (A.V.); (D.B.); (A.S.)
- SienabioACTIVE-SbA, Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Alfonso Trezza
- ONE-HEALTH Lab, Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (M.S.M.); (A.T.); (A.V.); (D.B.); (A.S.)
| | - Anna Visibelli
- ONE-HEALTH Lab, Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (M.S.M.); (A.T.); (A.V.); (D.B.); (A.S.)
| | - Daniela Braconi
- ONE-HEALTH Lab, Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (M.S.M.); (A.T.); (A.V.); (D.B.); (A.S.)
| | - Annalisa Santucci
- ONE-HEALTH Lab, Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (M.S.M.); (A.T.); (A.V.); (D.B.); (A.S.)
- SienabioACTIVE-SbA, Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
- ARTES 4.0, Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
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Payne S, Wick S, Carr PA, Guido NJ. A Methodology for the Assessment and Prioritization of Genetic Biocontainment Technologies for Engineered Microbes. APPLIED BIOSAFETY 2024; 29:108-119. [PMID: 39144101 PMCID: PMC11319856 DOI: 10.1089/apb.2023.0025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/16/2024]
Abstract
Introduction Organisms engineered with synthetic genes and genomes have the potential to play critical roles to address important issues in the environment, human health, and manufacturing. Engineered genetic biocontainment technologies are needed to manage the risks of unintended consequences when deploying these biological systems in consultation with the biosafety and biosecurity communities. Metrics measuring genetic biocontainment and a methodology to apply them are required to determine which genetic biocontainment technologies warrant further development for real-world applications. In this study, we develop and apply a systems analysis of the current technical landscape using expert opinion and a metric-based scoring system resulting in a semiquantitative comparative assessment of genetic biocontainment technologies in microorganisms. Methods Genetic biocontainment technologies were evaluated according to multiple metrics, falling into two broad classes: feasibility and applicability. Specific genetic biocontainment example scenarios and generalized categories were scored with these metrics. Gap analysis was carried out, indicating particular areas where genetic biocontainment can be improved. Results Metric analysis scoring of feasibility and applicability enabled prioritization of genetic biocontainment technologies for real-world applications. Gap analysis showed that technology readiness and containment stability scored low for a number of scenarios and categories, indicating a general need for further development before they can be ready for deployment. Conclusion Developing an assessment framework with defined metrics produced a straightforward system for evaluating genetic biocontainment strategies intended for various real-world applications. Use of the methodology also provided insights into existing gaps in genetic biocontainment strategies, and by altering the metrics, can be applied to other biotechnologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Payne
- MIT Lincoln Laboratory, Lexington, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Scott Wick
- MIT Lincoln Laboratory, Lexington, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Peter A. Carr
- MIT Lincoln Laboratory, Lexington, Massachusetts, USA
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Geng F, Wu M, Yang P, Li X, Pan X, Wang Y, Lü J. Engineered probiotic cocktail with two cascade metabolic Escherichia coli for the treatment of hyperlysinemia. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1366017. [PMID: 38873158 PMCID: PMC11169572 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1366017] [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: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Engineering probiotics have emerged as a potential strategy for the treatment of metabolic diseases. However, due to the exceptional complexity of these metabolic disorders and the intricate relationship between gut microbes, it is difficult to achieve an ideal therapeutic effect in a specific metabolic disorder using only a single engineered strain. In this work, we proposed a probiotic cocktail strategy by engineering two cascade metabolic bacteria to treat hyperlysinemia, an inherited lysine metabolic disorder with loss of α-aminoadipate semialdehyde synthase (AASS) activity. A probiotic E. coli Nissle 1917 strain EcNT (pTLS) with a heterologous enzyme pathway in Saccharomyces cerevisiae was engineered to metabolize the excess lysine. Another one EcNT (pK25) was engineered to consume the products of lysine metabolism. The bacterial cocktail enables the maintenance of a metabolic cascade with AASS-like functional activity to maintain the blood lysine concentrations and downstream metabolites. In vitro experimental results showed that the cocktail bacteria had a better metabolic capacity and metabolites balance at a ratio of EcNT (pTLS) and EcNT (pK25) of 1:2. Feeding of the cocktail bacteria to the mouse model effectively reduced the concentration of lysine and balanced saccharopine in the plasma of hyperlysinemia-like mice. These findings not only provide a promising strategy of probiotic stains for the treatment of hyperlysinemia but also highlight the potential of engineered cascade cocktails to intervene and even cure other inherited metabolic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Geng
- College of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong Laboratory, Jinan, China
| | - Mingyu Wu
- College of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong Laboratory, Jinan, China
| | - Pan Yang
- College of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong Laboratory, Jinan, China
| | - Xueling Li
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong Laboratory, Jinan, China
- College of Public Health, Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaohong Pan
- College of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Yadi Wang
- College of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong Laboratory, Jinan, China
| | - Junhong Lü
- College of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong Laboratory, Jinan, China
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Delbreil P, Dhondt S, Kenaan El Rahbani RM, Banquy X, Mitchell JJ, Brambilla D. Current Advances and Material Innovations in the Search for Novel Treatments of Phenylketonuria. Adv Healthc Mater 2024:e2401353. [PMID: 38801163 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202401353] [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: 04/12/2024] [Revised: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a genetically inherited disease caused by a mutation of the gene encoding phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH) and is the most common inborn error of amino acid metabolism. A deficiency of PAH leads to increased blood and brain levels of phenylalanine (Phe), which may cause permanent neurocognitive symptoms and developmental delays if untreated. Current management strategies for PKU consist of early detection through neonatal screening and implementation of a restrictive diet with minimal amounts of natural protein in combination with Phe-free supplements and low-protein foods to meet nutritional requirements. For milder forms of PKU, oral treatment with synthetic sapropterin (BH4), the cofactor of PAH, may improve metabolic control of Phe and allow for more natural protein to be included in the patient's diet. For more severe forms, daily injections of pegvaliase, a PEGylated variant of phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL), may allow for normalization of blood Phe levels. However, the latter treatment has considerable drawbacks, notably a strong immunogenicity of the exogenous enzyme and the attached polymeric chains. Research for novel therapies of PKU makes use of innovative materials for drug delivery and state-of-the-art protein engineering techniques to develop treatments which are safer, more effective, and potentially permanent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philippe Delbreil
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Université de Montréal, Québec, H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Sofie Dhondt
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Université de Montréal, Québec, H3T 1J4, Canada
| | | | - Xavier Banquy
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Université de Montréal, Québec, H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - John J Mitchell
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Québec, H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Davide Brambilla
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Université de Montréal, Québec, H3T 1J4, Canada
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Vazquez-Uribe R, Hedin KA, Licht TR, Nieuwdorp M, Sommer MOA. Advanced microbiome therapeutics as a novel modality for oral delivery of peptides to manage metabolic diseases. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2024:S1043-2760(24)00115-2. [PMID: 38782649 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2024.04.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
The rising prevalence of metabolic diseases calls for innovative treatments. Peptide-based drugs have transformed the management of conditions such as obesity and type 2 diabetes. Yet, challenges persist in oral delivery of these peptides. This review explores the potential of 'advanced microbiome therapeutics' (AMTs), which involve engineered microbes for delivery of peptides in situ, thereby enhancing their bioavailability. Preclinical work on AMTs has shown promise in treating animal models of metabolic diseases, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease. Outstanding challenges toward realizing the potential of AMTs involve improving peptide expression, ensuring predictable colonization control, enhancing stability, and managing safety and biocontainment concerns. Still, AMTs have potential for revolutionizing the treatment of metabolic diseases, potentially offering dynamic and personalized novel therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruben Vazquez-Uribe
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Karl Alex Hedin
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Tine Rask Licht
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Max Nieuwdorp
- Departments of Internal and Experimental Vascular Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Morten O A Sommer
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark.
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Porcari S, Fusco W, Spivak I, Fiorani M, Gasbarrini A, Elinav E, Cammarota G, Ianiro G. Fine-tuning the gut ecosystem: the current landscape and outlook of artificial microbiome therapeutics. Lancet Gastroenterol Hepatol 2024; 9:460-475. [PMID: 38604200 DOI: 10.1016/s2468-1253(23)00357-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
The gut microbiome is acknowledged as a key determinant of human health, and technological progress in the past two decades has enabled the deciphering of its composition and functions and its role in human disorders. Therefore, manipulation of the gut microbiome has emerged as a promising therapeutic option for communicable and non-communicable disorders. Full exploitation of current therapeutic microbiome modulators (including probiotics, prebiotics, and faecal microbiota transplantation) is hindered by several factors, including poor precision, regulatory and safety issues, and the impossibility of providing reproducible and targeted treatments. Artificial microbiota therapeutics (which include a wide range of products, such as microbiota consortia, bacteriophages, bacterial metabolites, and engineered probiotics) have appeared as an evolution of current microbiota modulators, as they promise safe and reproducible effects, with variable levels of precision via different pathways. We describe the landscape of artificial microbiome therapeutics, from those already on the market to those still in the pipeline, and outline the major challenges for positioning these therapeutics in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Porcari
- Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy; UOC Gastroenterologia and UOC CEMAD Medicina Interna e Gastroenterologia, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - William Fusco
- Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy; UOC Gastroenterologia and UOC CEMAD Medicina Interna e Gastroenterologia, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Igor Spivak
- Systems Immunology Department, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel; Medical Clinic III, University Hospital Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Marcello Fiorani
- Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy; UOC Gastroenterologia and UOC CEMAD Medicina Interna e Gastroenterologia, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Gasbarrini
- Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy; UOC Gastroenterologia and UOC CEMAD Medicina Interna e Gastroenterologia, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Eran Elinav
- Systems Immunology Department, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel; Microbiome and Cancer Division, DKFZ, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Giovanni Cammarota
- Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy; UOC Gastroenterologia and UOC CEMAD Medicina Interna e Gastroenterologia, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Gianluca Ianiro
- Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy; UOC Gastroenterologia and UOC CEMAD Medicina Interna e Gastroenterologia, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy.
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11
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Murali SK, Mansell TJ. Next generation probiotics: Engineering live biotherapeutics. Biotechnol Adv 2024; 72:108336. [PMID: 38432422 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2024.108336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2023] [Revised: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 02/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
The population dynamics of the human microbiome have been associated with inflammatory bowel disease, cancer, obesity, autoimmune diseases, and many other human disease states. An emerging paradigm in treatment is the administration of live engineered organisms, also called next-generation probiotics. However, the efficacy of these microbial therapies can be limited by the organism's overall performance in the harsh and nutrient-limited environment of the gut. In this review, we summarize the current state of the art use of bacterial and yeast strains as probiotics, highlight the recent development of genetic tools for engineering new therapeutic functions in these organisms, and report on the latest therapeutic applications of engineered probiotics, including recent clinical trials. We also discuss the supplementation of prebiotics as a method of manipulating the microbiome and improving the overall performance of engineered live biotherapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanjeeva Kumar Murali
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA.
| | - Thomas J Mansell
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA; Interdepartmental Microbiology Graduate Program, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA.
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12
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Lubkowicz D, Hava DL, Lewis K, Isabella VM. Rational Engineering of Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 as Live Biotherapeutic to Degrade Uremic Toxin Precursors. ACS Synth Biol 2024; 13:1077-1084. [PMID: 38588591 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.3c00686] [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] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
Uremic toxins (UTs) are microbiota-derived metabolites that accelerate the progression of kidney damage in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). One of the major UTs involved in CKD progression is p-cresol-sulfate (PCS), derived from dietary l-tyrosine (l-Tyr). Here, we engineered a probiotic strain of Escherichia coli Nissle 1917, to convert l-Tyr to the nontoxic compound p-coumaric acid via tyrosine ammonia lyase (TAL). First, a small metagenomic library was assessed to identify the TAL with the greatest whole-cell activity. Second, accessory genes implicated in the import of l-Tyr and export of PCA were overexpressed to enhance l-Tyr degradation by 106% and 56%, respectively. Last, random mutagenesis coupled to a novel selection and screening strategy was developed that identified a TAL variant with a 25% increase in whole-cell activity. Taken together, the final strain exhibits a 183% improvement over initial whole-cell activity and provides a promising candidate to degrade l-Tyr mediated PCS accumulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Lubkowicz
- Synlogic Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
| | - David L Hava
- Synlogic Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
| | - Kim Lewis
- Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
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13
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Barati M, Mosharkesh E, Tahmassian AH, Khodaei M, Jabbari M, Kalhori A, Alipour M, Ghavidel AA, Khalili-Moghadam S, Fathollahi A, Davoodi SH. Engineered Probiotics for the Management of Congenital Metabolic Diseases: A Systematic Review. Prev Nutr Food Sci 2024; 29:1-7. [PMID: 38576877 PMCID: PMC10987387 DOI: 10.3746/pnf.2024.29.1.1] [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: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Engineered probiotics (EPs) can be used to treat/manage chronic and congenital diseases. However, to the best of our knowledge, no systematic review has evaluated the effects of EPs on congenital metabolic disorders in murine models and human subjects. Thus, the present study systematically reviewed interventional studies that assessed the effects of EPs on congenital metabolic disorders. PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases were searched up to February 2023 to retrieve related publications. Seventy-six articles were obtained in the primary step. After screening the titles/abstracts based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 11 papers were included. Finally, only seven articles were included after performing full-text evaluation. The included articles evaluated the effects of EPs on managing phenylketonuria (PKU, n=4) and hyperammonemia (n=3). Moreover, these studies examined mice and/or rats (n=6), monkeys (n=1), and humans (n=2). Studies on EPs and hyperammonemia revealed that some wild strains such as Lactobacillus plantarum have an innate ammonia-hyper-consuming potential; thus, there was no need to manipulate them. However, manipulation is needed to obtain a phenylalanine-metabolizing strain. In conclusion, EPs can be used to manage or treat congenital metabolic diseases including PKU.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meisam Barati
- Student Research Committee, Department of Clinical Nutrition, National Nutrition and Food Technology Research Institute, Faculty of Nutrition and Food Technology, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1516745811, Iran
| | - Erfan Mosharkesh
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tabriz, Tabriz 5166616471, Iran
| | - Amir Hossein Tahmassian
- Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad 9138813944, Iran
| | - Maryam Khodaei
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1516745811, Iran
| | - Masoumeh Jabbari
- Department of Community Nutrition, National Nutrition and Food Technology Research Institute, Faculty of Nutrition and Food Technology, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 151674581, Iran
| | - Ali Kalhori
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Nutritional Science, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Mohsen Alipour
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1516745811, Iran
| | - Afshin Abdi Ghavidel
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1516745811, Iran
| | - Sajad Khalili-Moghadam
- Student Research Committee, Department of Clinical Nutrition, National Nutrition and Food Technology Research Institute, Faculty of Nutrition and Food Technology, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1516745811, Iran
| | - Anwar Fathollahi
- Saqqez School of Nursing, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj 66177-13446, Iran
| | - Sayed Hossein Davoodi
- Student Research Committee, Department of Clinical Nutrition, National Nutrition and Food Technology Research Institute, Faculty of Nutrition and Food Technology, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1516745811, Iran
- Cancer Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1461965381, Iran
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14
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Perreault M, Means J, Gerson E, James M, Cotton S, Bergeron CG, Simon M, Carlin DA, Schmidt N, Moore TC, Blasbalg J, Sondheimer N, Ndugga-Kabuye K, Denney WS, Isabella VM, Lubkowicz D, Brennan A, Hava DL. The live biotherapeutic SYNB1353 decreases plasma methionine via directed degradation in animal models and healthy volunteers. Cell Host Microbe 2024; 32:382-395.e10. [PMID: 38309259 DOI: 10.1016/j.chom.2024.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Revised: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/05/2024]
Abstract
Methionine is an essential proteinogenic amino acid, but its excess can lead to deleterious effects. Inborn errors of methionine metabolism resulting from loss of function in cystathionine β-synthase (CBS) cause classic homocystinuria (HCU), which is managed by a methionine-restricted diet. Synthetic biotics are gastrointestinal tract-targeted live biotherapeutics that can be engineered to replicate the benefits of dietary restriction. In this study, we assess whether SYNB1353, an E. coli Nissle 1917 derivative, impacts circulating methionine and homocysteine levels in animals and healthy volunteers. In both mice and nonhuman primates (NHPs), SYNB1353 blunts the appearance of plasma methionine and plasma homocysteine in response to an oral methionine load. A phase 1 clinical study conducted in healthy volunteers subjected to an oral methionine challenge demonstrates that SYNB1353 is well tolerated and blunts plasma methionine by 26%. Overall, SYNB1353 represents a promising approach for methionine reduction with potential utility for the treatment of HCU.
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15
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Mahdizade Ari M, Dadgar L, Elahi Z, Ghanavati R, Taheri B. Genetically Engineered Microorganisms and Their Impact on Human Health. Int J Clin Pract 2024; 2024:6638269. [PMID: 38495751 PMCID: PMC10944348 DOI: 10.1155/2024/6638269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
The emergence of antibiotic-resistant strains, the decreased effectiveness of conventional therapies, and the side effects have led researchers to seek a safer, more cost-effective, patient-friendly, and effective method that does not develop antibiotic resistance. With progress in synthetic biology and genetic engineering, genetically engineered microorganisms effective in treatment, prophylaxis, drug delivery, and diagnosis have been developed. The present study reviews the types of genetically engineered bacteria and phages, their impacts on diseases, cancer, and metabolic and inflammatory disorders, the biosynthesis of these modified strains, the route of administration, and their effects on the environment. We conclude that genetically engineered microorganisms can be considered promising candidates for adjunctive treatment of diseases and cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marzie Mahdizade Ari
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Microbial Biotechnology Research Centre, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Leila Dadgar
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Microbial Biotechnology Research Centre, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Elahi
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Microbial Biotechnology Research Centre, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Behrouz Taheri
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapour University of medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
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16
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Bernardini G, Braconi D, Zatkova A, Sireau N, Kujawa MJ, Introne WJ, Spiga O, Geminiani M, Gallagher JA, Ranganath LR, Santucci A. Alkaptonuria. Nat Rev Dis Primers 2024; 10:16. [PMID: 38453957 DOI: 10.1038/s41572-024-00498-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Alkaptonuria is a rare inborn error of metabolism caused by the deficiency of homogentisate 1,2-dioxygenase activity. The consequent homogentisic acid (HGA) accumulation in body fluids and tissues leads to a multisystemic and highly debilitating disease whose main features are dark urine, ochronosis (HGA-derived pigment in collagen-rich connective tissues), and a painful and severe form of osteoarthropathy. Other clinical manifestations are extremely variable and include kidney and prostate stones, aortic stenosis, bone fractures, and tendon, ligament and/or muscle ruptures. As an autosomal recessive disorder, alkaptonuria affects men and women equally. Debilitating symptoms appear around the third decade of life, but a proper and timely diagnosis is often delayed due to their non-specific nature and a lack of knowledge among physicians. In later stages, patients' quality of life might be seriously compromised and further complicated by comorbidities. Thus, appropriate management of alkaptonuria requires a multidisciplinary approach, and periodic clinical evaluation is advised to monitor disease progression, complications and/or comorbidities, and to enable prompt intervention. Treatment options are patient-tailored and include a combination of medications, physical therapy and surgery. Current basic and clinical research focuses on improving patient management and developing innovative therapies and implementing precision medicine strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Bernardini
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy.
| | - Daniela Braconi
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Andrea Zatkova
- Institute of Clinical and Translational Research, Biomedical Research Center of the Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
- Geneton Ltd, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | | | - Mariusz J Kujawa
- 2nd Department of Radiology, Medical University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Wendy J Introne
- Human Biochemical Genetics Section, Medical Genetics Branch, Office of the Clinical Director, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Ottavia Spiga
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Michela Geminiani
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - James A Gallagher
- Department of Musculoskeletal and Ageing Science, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Lakshminarayan R Ranganath
- Department of Musculoskeletal and Ageing Science, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Metabolic Medicine, Royal Liverpool University Hospital, Liverpool, UK
| | - Annalisa Santucci
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
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17
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Lücke J, Huber S. E. coli´s fight against TYROnny: Designing a bacterial strain to tackle tyrosinemia type 1. J Hepatol 2024; 80:394-396. [PMID: 38008262 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2023.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Jöran Lücke
- Section of Molecular Immunology and Gastroenterology, I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg 20246, Germany; Hamburg Center for Translational Immunology (HCTI), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg 20246, Germany; Department of General, Visceral and Thoracic Surgery, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg 20246, Germany
| | - Samuel Huber
- Section of Molecular Immunology and Gastroenterology, I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg 20246, Germany; Hamburg Center for Translational Immunology (HCTI), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg 20246, Germany.
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18
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Liu GW, Pickett MJ, Kuosmanen JLP, Ishida K, Madani WAM, White GN, Jenkins J, Park S, Feig VR, Jimenez M, Karavasili C, Lal NB, Murphy M, Lopes A, Morimoto J, Fitzgerald N, Cheah JH, Soule CK, Fabian N, Hayward A, Langer R, Traverso G. Drinkable in situ-forming tough hydrogels for gastrointestinal therapeutics. NATURE MATERIALS 2024:10.1038/s41563-024-01811-5. [PMID: 38413810 DOI: 10.1038/s41563-024-01811-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
Pills are a cornerstone of medicine but can be challenging to swallow. While liquid formulations are easier to ingest, they lack the capacity to localize therapeutics with excipients nor act as controlled release devices. Here we describe drug formulations based on liquid in situ-forming tough (LIFT) hydrogels that bridge the advantages of solid and liquid dosage forms. LIFT hydrogels form directly in the stomach through sequential ingestion of a crosslinker solution of calcium and dithiol crosslinkers, followed by a drug-containing polymer solution of alginate and four-arm poly(ethylene glycol)-maleimide. We show that LIFT hydrogels robustly form in the stomachs of live rats and pigs, and are mechanically tough, biocompatible and safely cleared after 24 h. LIFT hydrogels deliver a total drug dose comparable to unencapsulated drug in a controlled manner, and protect encapsulated therapeutic enzymes and bacteria from gastric acid-mediated deactivation. Overall, LIFT hydrogels may expand access to advanced therapeutics for patients with difficulty swallowing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gary W Liu
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Matthew J Pickett
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Chemistry, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Johannes L P Kuosmanen
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Keiko Ishida
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Endoscopy, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Fractyl Health, Inc., Lexington, MA, USA
| | - Wiam A M Madani
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Weill Cornell Medical College, New York City, NY, USA
| | - Georgia N White
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Joshua Jenkins
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Basseterre, St. Kitts and Nevis
| | - Sanghyun Park
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Endoscopy, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Vivian R Feig
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Endoscopy, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Miguel Jimenez
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Endoscopy, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Christina Karavasili
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Endoscopy, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Nikhil B Lal
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Endoscopy, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- MIT Media Lab, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Matt Murphy
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Endoscopy, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Aaron Lopes
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Endoscopy, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Joshua Morimoto
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Nina Fitzgerald
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Tufts University, Medford, MA, USA
| | - Jaime H Cheah
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Christian K Soule
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Niora Fabian
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Division of Comparative Medicine, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Alison Hayward
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Endoscopy, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Comparative Medicine, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Robert Langer
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Giovanni Traverso
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA.
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA.
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Endoscopy, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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19
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Ninyio N, Schmitt K, Sergon G, Nilsson C, Andersson S, Scherbak N. Stable expression of HIV-1 MPER extended epitope on the surface of the recombinant probiotic bacteria Escherichia Coli Nissle 1917 using CRISPR/Cas9. Microb Cell Fact 2024; 23:39. [PMID: 38311724 PMCID: PMC10840157 DOI: 10.1186/s12934-023-02290-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mucosal vaccines have the potential to induce protective immune responses at the sites of infection. Applying CRISPR/Cas9 editing, we aimed to develop a probiotic-based vaccine candidate expressing the HIV-1 envelope membrane-proximal external region (MPER) on the surface of E. coli Nissle 1917. RESULTS The HIV-1 MPER epitope was successfully introduced in the porin OmpF of the E. coli Nissle 1917 (EcN-MPER) and the modification was stable over 30 passages of the recombinant bacteria on the DNA and protein level. Furthermore, the introduced epitope was recognized by a human anti-HIV-1 gp41 (2F5) antibody using both live and heat-killed EcN-MPER, and this antigenicity was also retained over 30 passages. Whole-cell dot blot suggested a stronger binding of anti-HIV-1 gp41 (2F5) to heat-killed EcN-MPER than their live counterpart. An outer membrane vesicle (OMV) - rich extract from EcN-MPER culture supernatant was equally antigenic to anti-HIV-1 gp41 antibody which suggests that the MPER antigen could be harboured in EcN-MPER OMVs. Using quantitative ELISA, we determined the amount of MPER produced by the modified EcN to be 14.3 µg/108 cfu. CONCLUSIONS The CRISPR/Cas9 technology was an effective method for establishment of recombinant EcN-MPER bacteria that was stable over many passages. The developed EcN-MPER clone was devoid of extraneous plasmids and antibiotic resistance genes which eliminates the risk of plasmid transfer to animal hosts, should this clone be used as a vaccine. Also, the EcN-MPER clone was recognised by anti-HIV-1 gp41 (2F5) both as live and heat-killed bacteria making it suitable for pre-clinical evaluation. Expression of OmpF on bacterial surfaces and released OMVs identifies it as a compelling candidate for recombinant epitope modification, enabling surface epitope presentation on both bacteria and OMVs. By applying the methods described in this study, we present a potential platform for cost-effective and rational vaccine antigen expression and administration, offering promising prospects for further research in the field of vaccine development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathaniel Ninyio
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Katharina Schmitt
- School of Science and Technology, Life Science Center, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
- Institute of Virology, Saarland University Medical Center, 66421, Homburg, Germany
| | - Gladys Sergon
- School of Science and Technology, Life Science Center, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Charlotta Nilsson
- Division of Clinical Microbiology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Microbiology, Public Health Agency of Sweden, Solna, Sweden
| | - Sören Andersson
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
- Department of Public Health Analysis and Data Management, Unit for Vaccination Programmes, Public Health Agency of Sweden, Solna, Sweden
| | - Nikolai Scherbak
- School of Science and Technology, Life Science Center, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden.
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20
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Hahn J, Ding S, Im J, Harimoto T, Leong KW, Danino T. Bacterial therapies at the interface of synthetic biology and nanomedicine. NATURE REVIEWS BIOENGINEERING 2024; 2:120-135. [PMID: 38962719 PMCID: PMC11218715 DOI: 10.1038/s44222-023-00119-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
Bacteria are emerging as living drugs to treat a broad range of disease indications. However, the inherent advantages of these replicating and immunostimulatory therapies also carry the potential for toxicity. Advances in synthetic biology and the integration of nanomedicine can address this challenge through the engineering of controllable systems that regulate spatial and temporal activation for improved safety and efficacy. Here, we review recent progress in nanobiotechnology-driven engineering of bacteria-based therapies, highlighting limitations and opportunities that will facilitate clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaeseung Hahn
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Suwan Ding
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jongwon Im
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Tetsuhiro Harimoto
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Kam W. Leong
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Systems Biology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Tal Danino
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- Data Science Institute, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
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21
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Han K, Xu J, Xie F, Crowther J, Moon JJ. Engineering Strategies to Modulate the Gut Microbiome and Immune System. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2024; 212:208-215. [PMID: 38166246 PMCID: PMC10766079 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2300480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/04/2024]
Abstract
The gut microbiota, predominantly residing in the colon, is a complex ecosystem with a pivotal role in the host immune system. Dysbiosis of the gut microbiota has been associated with various diseases, and there is an urgent need to develop new therapeutics that target the microbiome and restore immune functions. This Brief Review discusses emerging therapeutic strategies that focus on oral delivery systems for modulating the gut microbiome. These strategies include genetic engineering of probiotics, probiotic-biomaterial hybrids, dietary fibers, and oral delivery systems for microbial metabolites, antimicrobial peptides, RNA, and antibiotics. Engineered oral formulations have demonstrated promising outcomes in reshaping the gut microbiome and influencing immune responses in preclinical studies. By leveraging these approaches, the interplay between the gut microbiota and the immune system can be harnessed for the development of novel therapeutics against cancer, autoimmune disorders, and allergies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Han
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Pharmaceutics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
- Biointerfaces Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Jin Xu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Biointerfaces Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Fang Xie
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Biointerfaces Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Julia Crowther
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Biointerfaces Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - James J. Moon
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Biointerfaces Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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22
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Heinken A, El Kouche S, Guéant-Rodriguez RM, Guéant JL. Towards personalized genome-scale modeling of inborn errors of metabolism for systems medicine applications. Metabolism 2024; 150:155738. [PMID: 37981189 DOI: 10.1016/j.metabol.2023.155738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023]
Abstract
Inborn errors of metabolism (IEMs) are a group of more than 1000 inherited diseases that are individually rare but have a cumulative global prevalence of 50 per 100,000 births. Recently, it has been recognized that like common diseases, patients with rare diseases can greatly vary in the manifestation and severity of symptoms. Here, we review omics-driven approaches that enable an integrated, holistic view of metabolic phenotypes in IEM patients. We focus on applications of Constraint-based Reconstruction and Analysis (COBRA), a widely used mechanistic systems biology approach, to model the effects of inherited diseases. Moreover, we review evidence that the gut microbiome is also altered in rare diseases. Finally, we outline an approach using personalized metabolic models of IEM patients for the prediction of biomarkers and tailored therapeutic or dietary interventions. Such applications could pave the way towards personalized medicine not just for common, but also for rare diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Almut Heinken
- Inserm UMRS 1256 NGERE - Nutrition, Genetics, and Environmental Risk Exposure, University of Lorraine, Nancy F-54000, France.
| | - Sandra El Kouche
- Inserm UMRS 1256 NGERE - Nutrition, Genetics, and Environmental Risk Exposure, University of Lorraine, Nancy F-54000, France
| | - Rosa-Maria Guéant-Rodriguez
- Inserm UMRS 1256 NGERE - Nutrition, Genetics, and Environmental Risk Exposure, University of Lorraine, Nancy F-54000, France; National Center of Inborn Errors of Metabolism, University Regional Hospital Center of Nancy, Nancy F-54000, France
| | - Jean-Louis Guéant
- Inserm UMRS 1256 NGERE - Nutrition, Genetics, and Environmental Risk Exposure, University of Lorraine, Nancy F-54000, France; National Center of Inborn Errors of Metabolism, University Regional Hospital Center of Nancy, Nancy F-54000, France
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23
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Guo J, Zhou B, Niu Y, Liu L, Yang L. Engineered probiotics introduced to improve intestinal microecology for the treatment of chronic diseases: present state and perspectives. J Diabetes Metab Disord 2023; 22:1029-1038. [PMID: 37975092 PMCID: PMC10638336 DOI: 10.1007/s40200-023-01279-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Purpose Correcting intestinal microecological imbalance has become one of the core strategies to treat chronic diseases. Some traditional microecology-based therapies targeting intestine, such as prebiotic therapy, probiotic therapy and fecal microbiota transplantation therapy, have been used in the prevention and treatment of clinical chronic diseases, which still facing low safety and poor controllability problems. The development of synthetic biology technology has promoted the development of intestinal microecology-based therapeutics for chronic diseases, which exhibiting higher robustness and controllability, and become an important part of the next generation of microecological therapy. The purpose of this review is to summarize the application of synthetic biology in intestinal microecology-based therapeutics for chronic diseases. Methods The available literatures were searched to find out experimental studies and relevant review articles on the application of synthetic biology in intestinal microecology-based therapeutics for chronic diseases from year 1990 to 2023. Results Evidence proposed that synthetic biology has been applied in the intestinal microecology-based therapeutics for chronic diseases, covering metabolic diseases (e.g. diabetes, obesity, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and phenylketonuria), digestive diseases (e.g. inflammatory bowel disease and colorectal cancer), and neurodegenerative diseases (e.g. Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease). Conclusion This review summarizes the application of synthetic biology in intestinal microecology-based therapeutics for major chronic diseases and discusses the opportunities and challenges in the above process, providing clinical possibilities of synthetic biology technology applied in microecological therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianquan Guo
- Key Laboratory of Coal Environmental Pathogenicity and Prevention, (Shanxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, Taiyuan, PR China
- School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001 Shanxi PR China
| | - Bangyuan Zhou
- School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001 Shanxi PR China
| | - Yali Niu
- School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001 Shanxi PR China
| | - Liangpo Liu
- School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001 Shanxi PR China
| | - Liyang Yang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, 030619 Jinzhong, PR China
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24
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Chen Z, Jin W, Hoover A, Chao Y, Ma Y. Decoding the microbiome: advances in genetic manipulation for gut bacteria. Trends Microbiol 2023; 31:1143-1161. [PMID: 37394299 DOI: 10.1016/j.tim.2023.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023]
Abstract
Studies of the gut microbiota have revealed associations between specific bacterial species or community compositions with health and disease, yet the causal mechanisms underlying microbiota gene-host interactions remain poorly understood. This is partly due to limited genetic manipulation (GM) tools for gut bacteria. Here, we review current advances and challenges in the development of GM approaches, including clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-Cas and transposase-based systems in either model or non-model gut bacteria. By overcoming barriers to 'taming' the gut microbiome, GM tools allow molecular understanding of host-microbiome associations and accelerate microbiome engineering for clinical treatment of cancer and metabolic disorders. Finally, we provide perspectives on the future development of GM for gut microbiome species, where more effort should be placed on assembling a generalized GM pipeline to accelerate the application of groundbreaking GM tools in non-model gut bacteria towards both basic understanding and clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziying Chen
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200031, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China; The Center for Microbes, Development and Health (CMDH), CAS Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology and Immunology, Institut Pasteur of Shanghai, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Wenbing Jin
- Jill Roberts Institute for Research in Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY 10021, USA; Friedman Center for Nutrition and Inflammation, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Alex Hoover
- Ben May Department for Cancer Research, the University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Yanjie Chao
- The Center for Microbes, Development and Health (CMDH), CAS Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology and Immunology, Institut Pasteur of Shanghai, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China.
| | - Yanlei Ma
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200031, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China.
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25
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Kim K, Kang M, Cho BK. Systems and synthetic biology-driven engineering of live bacterial therapeutics. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1267378. [PMID: 37929193 PMCID: PMC10620806 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1267378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The past decade has seen growing interest in bacterial engineering for therapeutically relevant applications. While early efforts focused on repurposing genetically tractable model strains, such as Escherichia coli, engineering gut commensals is gaining traction owing to their innate capacity to survive and stably propagate in the intestine for an extended duration. Although limited genetic tractability has been a major roadblock, recent advances in systems and synthetic biology have unlocked our ability to effectively harness native gut commensals for therapeutic and diagnostic purposes, ranging from the rational design of synthetic microbial consortia to the construction of synthetic cells that execute "sense-and-respond" logic operations that allow real-time detection and therapeutic payload delivery in response to specific signals in the intestine. In this review, we outline the current progress and latest updates on microbial therapeutics, with particular emphasis on gut commensal engineering driven by synthetic biology and systems understanding of their molecular phenotypes. Finally, the challenges and prospects of engineering gut commensals for therapeutic applications are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kangsan Kim
- Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- KAIST Institute for the BioCentury, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Minjeong Kang
- Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- KAIST Institute for the BioCentury, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Byung-Kwan Cho
- Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- KAIST Institute for the BioCentury, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Graduate School of Engineering Biology, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
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26
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Yu M, Hu S, Tang B, Yang H, Sun D. Engineering Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 as a microbial chassis for therapeutic and industrial applications. Biotechnol Adv 2023; 67:108202. [PMID: 37343690 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2023.108202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023]
Abstract
Genetically engineered microbes, especially Escherichia coli, have been widely used in the biosynthesis of proteins and metabolites for medical and industrial applications. As a traditional probiotic with a well-established safety record, E. coli Nissle 1917 (EcN) has recently emerged as a microbial chassis for generating living therapeutics, drug delivery vehicles, and microbial platforms for industrial production. Despite the availability of genetic tools for engineering laboratory E. coli K-12 and B strains, new genetic engineering systems are still greatly needed to expand the application range of EcN. In this review, we have summarized the latest progress in the development of genetic engineering systems in EcN, as well as their applications in the biosynthesis and delivery of valuable small molecules and biomacromolecules of medical and/or industrial interest, followed by a glimpse of how this rapidly growing field will evolve in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingjing Yu
- College of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310014, China
| | - Shilong Hu
- College of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310014, China
| | - Biao Tang
- Institute of Quality and Standard for Agro-products, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou 310021, Zhejiang, China
| | - Hua Yang
- Institute of Quality and Standard for Agro-products, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou 310021, Zhejiang, China
| | - Dongchang Sun
- College of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310014, China.
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27
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Vockley J, Sondheimer N, Puurunen M, Diaz GA, Ginevic I, Grange DK, Harding C, Northrup H, Phillips JA, Searle S, Thomas JA, Zori R, Denney WS, Ernst SL, Humphreys K, McWhorter N, Kurtz C, Brennan AM. Efficacy and safety of a synthetic biotic for treatment of phenylketonuria: a phase 2 clinical trial. Nat Metab 2023; 5:1685-1690. [PMID: 37770764 DOI: 10.1038/s42255-023-00897-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023]
Abstract
Despite available treatment options, many patients with phenylketonuria (PKU) cannot achieve target plasma phenylalanine (Phe) levels1. We previously modified Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 to metabolize Phe in the gut after oral administration (SYNB1618) and designed a second strain (SYNB1934) with enhanced activity of phenylalanine ammonia lyase2,3. In a 14-day open-label dose-escalation study (Synpheny-1, NCT04534842 ), we test a primary endpoint of change from baseline in labeled Phe (D5-Phe AUC0-24; D5-Phe area under the curve (AUC) over 24 hours after D5-Phe administration) in plasma after D5-Phe challenge in adult participants with screening Phe of greater than 600 µM. Secondary endpoints were the change from baseline in fasting plasma Phe and the incidence of treatment-emergent adverse events. A total of 20 participants (ten male and ten female) were enrolled and 15 completed the study treatment. Here, we show that both strains lower Phe levels in participants with PKU: D5-Phe AUC0-24 was reduced by 43% from baseline with SYNB1934 and by 34% from baseline with SYNB1618. SYNB1934 led to a decrease in fasting plasma Phe of 40% (95% CI, -52, -24). There were no serious adverse events or infections. Four participants discontinued because of adverse events, and one withdrew during the baseline period. We show that synthetic biotics can metabolize Phe in the gut, lower post-prandial plasma Phe levels and lower fasting plasma Phe in patients with PKU.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerry Vockley
- Schools of Medicine and Public Health, Departments of Pediatrics and Human Genetics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | | | | | - George A Diaz
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ilona Ginevic
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Dorothy K Grange
- Division of Genetics and Genomic Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Cary Harding
- Department of Molecular and Medical Genetics, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Hope Northrup
- Department of Pediatrics, McGovern Medical School at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth) and Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | - Shawn Searle
- Early Clinical & Bioanalytical Research, ICON, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Janet A Thomas
- Section of Clinical Genetics and Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital Colorado and University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Roberto Zori
- Division of Clinical Genetics and Metabolism, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
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28
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Xu M, Li G, Li J, Xiong H, He S. Pharmacovigilance for rare diseases: a bibliometrics and knowledge-map analysis based on web of science. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2023; 18:303. [PMID: 37752556 PMCID: PMC10523788 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-023-02915-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aims of this paper is to search and explore publications in the field of pharmacovigilance for rare diseases and to visualize general information, research hotspots, frontiers and future trends in the field using the bibliometric tool CiteSpace to provide evidence-based evidence for scholars. METHODS We searched the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) for studies related to pharmacovigilance for rare diseases, spanning January 1, 1997-October 25, 2022. CiteSpace software was utilized to discuss countries/regions, institutions, authors, journals, and keywords. RESULTS After screening, a total of 599 valid publications were included in this study, with a significant upward trend in the number of publications. These studies were from 68 countries/regions with the United States and the United Kingdom making the largest contributions to the field. 4,806 research scholars from 493 institutions conducted studies on pharmacovigilance for rare diseases. Harvard University and University of California were the top two productive institutions in the research field. He Dian of the Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University and Peter G.M. Mol of the University of Groningen, The Netherlands, were the two most prolific researchers. The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews and the New England Journal of Medicine were the journals with the highest number of articles and co-citation frequency respectively. Clinical trial, therapy and adverse event were the top three most cited keywords. CONCLUSIONS Based on keywords co-occurrence analysis, four research topics were identified: orphan drug clinical trials, postmarketing ADR surveillance for orphan drugs, rare diseases and orphan drug management, and diagnosis and treatment of rare diseases. Immune-related adverse reactions and benefit-risk assessment of enzyme replacement therapy were at the forefront of research in this field. Treatment outcomes, early diagnosis and natural history studies of rare diseases may become hotspots for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengdan Xu
- School of Clinical Pharmacy, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Technology Research and Evaluation of Pharmacovigilance, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
| | - Guozhi Li
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Technology Research and Evaluation of Pharmacovigilance, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jiazhao Li
- School of Clinical Pharmacy, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Huiyu Xiong
- Center for ADR Monitoring of Guangdong, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Suzhen He
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
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29
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Lebovich M, Zeng M, Andrews LB. Algorithmic Programming of Sequential Logic and Genetic Circuits for Recording Biochemical Concentration in a Probiotic Bacterium. ACS Synth Biol 2023; 12:2632-2649. [PMID: 37581922 PMCID: PMC10510703 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.3c00232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023]
Abstract
Through the implementation of designable genetic circuits, engineered probiotic microorganisms could be used as noninvasive diagnostic tools for the gastrointestinal tract. For these living cells to report detected biomarkers or signals after exiting the gut, the genetic circuits must be able to record these signals by using genetically encoded memory. Complex memory register circuits could enable multiplex interrogation of biomarkers and signals. A theory-based approach to create genetic circuits containing memory, known as sequential logic circuits, was previously established for a model laboratory strain of Escherichia coli, yet how circuit component performance varies for nonmodel and clinically relevant bacterial strains is poorly understood. Here, we develop a scalable computational approach to design robust sequential logic circuits in probiotic strain Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 (EcN). In this work, we used TetR-family transcriptional repressors to build genetic logic gates that can be composed into sequential logic circuits, along with a set of engineered sensors relevant for use in the gut environment. Using standard methods, 16 genetic NOT gates and nine sensors were experimentally characterized in EcN. These data were used to design and predict the performance of circuit designs. We present a set of genetic circuits encoding both combinational logic and sequential logic and show that the circuit outputs are in close agreement with our quantitative predictions from the design algorithm. Furthermore, we demonstrate an analog-like concentration recording circuit that detects and reports three input concentration ranges of a biochemical signal using sequential logic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Lebovich
- Department
of Chemical Engineering, University of Massachusetts
Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003, United States
- Biotechnology
Training Program, University of Massachusetts
Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003, United States
| | - Min Zeng
- Department
of Chemical Engineering, University of Massachusetts
Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003, United States
| | - Lauren B. Andrews
- Department
of Chemical Engineering, University of Massachusetts
Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003, United States
- Biotechnology
Training Program, University of Massachusetts
Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003, United States
- Molecular
and Cellular Biology Graduate Program, University
of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003, United States
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30
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Nelson MT, Coia HG, Holt C, Greenwood ES, Narayanan L, Robinson PJ, Merrill EA, Litteral V, Goodson MS, Saldanha RJ, Grogg MW, Mauzy CA. Evaluation of Human Performance Aiding Live Synthetically Engineered Bacteria in a Gut-on-a-Chip. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2023; 9:5136-5150. [PMID: 36198112 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.2c00774] [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] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Synbiotics are a new class of live therapeutics employing engineered genetic circuits. The rapid adoption of genetic editing tools has catalyzed the expansion of possible synbiotics, exceeding traditional testing paradigms in terms of both throughput and model complexity. Herein, we present a simplistic gut-chip model using common Caco2 and HT-29 cell lines to establish a dynamic human screening platform for a cortisol sensing tryptamine producing synbiotic for cognitive performance sustainment. The synbiotic, SYN, was engineered from the common probiotic E. coli Nissle 1917 strain. It had the ability to sense cortisol at physiological concentrations, resulting in the activation of a genetic circuit that produces tryptophan decarboxylase and converts bioavailable tryptophan to tryptamine. SYN was successfully cultivated within the gut-chip showing log-phase growth comparable to the wild-type strain. Tryptophan metabolism occurred quickly in the gut compartment when exposed to 5 μM cortisol, resulting in the complete conversion of bioavailable tryptophan into tryptamine. The flux of tryptophan and tryptamine from the gut to the vascular compartment of the chip was delayed by 12 h, as indicated by the detectable tryptamine in the vascular compartment. The gut-chip provided a stable environment to characterize the sensitivity of the cortisol sensor and dynamic range by altering cortisol and tryptophan dosimetry. Collectively, the human gut-chip provided human relevant apparent permeability to assess tryptophan and tryptamine metabolism, production, and transport, enabled host analyses of cellular viability and pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion, and succeeded in providing an efficacy test of a novel synbiotic. Organ-on-a-chip technology holds promise in aiding traditional therapeutic pipelines to more rapidly down select high potential compounds that reduce the failure rate and accelerate the opportunity for clinical intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Tyler Nelson
- United States Air Force Research Laboratory, 711th Human Performance Wing, 2510 N 5th Street, Bldg. 840, Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio 45433, United States
| | - Heidi G Coia
- United States Air Force Research Laboratory, 711th Human Performance Wing, 2510 N 5th Street, Bldg. 840, Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio 45433, United States
- National Research Council, The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, 500 Fifth Street N.W., Washington, D.C. 20001, United States
| | - Corey Holt
- United States Air Force Research Laboratory, 711th Human Performance Wing, 2510 N 5th Street, Bldg. 840, Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio 45433, United States
| | - Eric S Greenwood
- United States Air Force Research Laboratory, 711th Human Performance Wing, 2510 N 5th Street, Bldg. 840, Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio 45433, United States
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education, 1299 Bethel Valley Road, Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37830, United States
| | - Latha Narayanan
- United States Air Force Research Laboratory, 711th Human Performance Wing, 2510 N 5th Street, Bldg. 840, Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio 45433, United States
- The Henry M. Jackson Foundation, 6720A Rockledge Drive, Bethesda, Maryland 20817, United States
| | - Peter J Robinson
- United States Air Force Research Laboratory, 711th Human Performance Wing, 2510 N 5th Street, Bldg. 840, Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio 45433, United States
- The Henry M. Jackson Foundation, 6720A Rockledge Drive, Bethesda, Maryland 20817, United States
| | - Elaine A Merrill
- United States Air Force Research Laboratory, 711th Human Performance Wing, 2510 N 5th Street, Bldg. 840, Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio 45433, United States
| | - Vaughn Litteral
- United States Air Force Research Laboratory, 711th Human Performance Wing, 2510 N 5th Street, Bldg. 840, Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio 45433, United States
- UES Inc., 4401 Dayton-Xenia Road, Dayton, Ohio 45432, United States
| | - Michael S Goodson
- United States Air Force Research Laboratory, 711th Human Performance Wing, 2510 N 5th Street, Bldg. 840, Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio 45433, United States
| | - Roland J Saldanha
- United States Air Force Research Laboratory, 711th Human Performance Wing, 2510 N 5th Street, Bldg. 840, Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio 45433, United States
| | - Matthew W Grogg
- United States Air Force Research Laboratory, 711th Human Performance Wing, 2510 N 5th Street, Bldg. 840, Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio 45433, United States
| | - Camilla A Mauzy
- United States Air Force Research Laboratory, 711th Human Performance Wing, 2510 N 5th Street, Bldg. 840, Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio 45433, United States
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Effendi SSW, Ng IS. Prospective and challenges of live bacterial therapeutics from a superhero Escherichia coli Nissle 1917. Crit Rev Microbiol 2023; 49:611-627. [PMID: 35947523 DOI: 10.1080/1040841x.2022.2109405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Revised: 07/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 (EcN), the active component of Mutaflor(R), is a notable probiotic from Gram-negative to treat Crohn's disease and irritable bowel syndrome. Therefore, a comprehensive genomic database maximizes the systemic probiotic assessment to discover EcN's role in human health. Recently, advanced synthetic and genetic tools have opened up a rich area to execute EcN as "living medicines" with controllable functions. Incorporating unique biomarkers allows the engineered EcN to switch genes on and off in response to environmental cues. Since EcN holds promise as a safe nature vehicle, more studies are desired to fully realize a wide range of probiotic potential for disease treatment. This review aims to deliver a historical origin of EcN, discuss the recent promising genetic toolbox in the rational design of probiotics, and pinpoint the clinical translation and evaluation of engineered EcN in vitro and in vivo. The summary of safety concerns, strategies of biotherapeutics development, and the challenges and prospects of engineered EcN is also concluded.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - I-Son Ng
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
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32
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Adams AD, Fiesco-Roa MÓ, Wong L, Jenkins GP, Malinowski J, Demarest OM, Rothberg PG, Hobert JA. Phenylalanine hydroxylase deficiency treatment and management: A systematic evidence review of the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG). Genet Med 2023; 25:100358. [PMID: 37470789 DOI: 10.1016/j.gim.2022.12.005] [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: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Elevated serum phenylalanine (Phe) levels due to biallelic pathogenic variants in phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH) may cause neurodevelopmental disorders or birth defects from maternal phenylketonuria. New Phe reduction treatments have been approved in the last decade, but uncertainty on the optimal lifespan goal Phe levels for patients with PAH deficiency remains. METHODS We searched Medline and Embase for evidence of treatment concerning PAH deficiency up to September 28, 2021. Risk of bias was evaluated based on study design. Random-effects meta-analyses were performed to compare IQ, gestational outcomes, and offspring outcomes based on Phe ≤ 360 μmol/L vs > 360 μmol/L and reported as odds ratio and 95% CI. Remaining results were narratively synthesized. RESULTS A total of 350 studies were included. Risk of bias was moderate. Lower Phe was consistently associated with better outcomes. Achieving Phe ≤ 360 μmol/L before conception substantially lowered the risk of negative effect to offspring in pregnant individuals (odds ratio = 0.07, 95% CI = 0.04-0.14; P < .0001). Adverse events due to pharmacologic treatment were common, but medication reduced Phe levels, enabling dietary liberalization. CONCLUSIONS Reduction of Phe levels to ≤360 μmol/L through diet or medication represents effective interventions to treat PAH deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- April D Adams
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX; Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
| | - Moisés Ó Fiesco-Roa
- Programa de Maestría y Doctorado en Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico City, Mexico; Laboratorio de Citogenética, Instituto Nacional de Pediatría, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | | | | | | | - Paul G Rothberg
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY
| | - Judith A Hobert
- University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT; ARUP Laboratories, Salt Lake City, UT
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33
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Sanmarco LM, Rone JM, Polonio CM, Fernandez Lahore G, Giovannoni F, Ferrara K, Gutierrez-Vazquez C, Li N, Sokolovska A, Plasencia A, Faust Akl C, Nanda P, Heck ES, Li Z, Lee HG, Chao CC, Rejano-Gordillo CM, Fonseca-Castro PH, Illouz T, Linnerbauer M, Kenison JE, Barilla RM, Farrenkopf D, Stevens NA, Piester G, Chung EN, Dailey L, Kuchroo VK, Hava D, Wheeler MA, Clish C, Nowarski R, Balsa E, Lora JM, Quintana FJ. Lactate limits CNS autoimmunity by stabilizing HIF-1α in dendritic cells. Nature 2023; 620:881-889. [PMID: 37558878 PMCID: PMC10725186 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-023-06409-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
Dendritic cells (DCs) have a role in the development and activation of self-reactive pathogenic T cells1,2. Genetic variants that are associated with the function of DCs have been linked to autoimmune disorders3,4, and DCs are therefore attractive therapeutic targets for such diseases. However, developing DC-targeted therapies for autoimmunity requires identification of the mechanisms that regulate DC function. Here, using single-cell and bulk transcriptional and metabolic analyses in combination with cell-specific gene perturbation studies, we identify a regulatory loop of negative feedback that operates in DCs to limit immunopathology. Specifically, we find that lactate, produced by activated DCs and other immune cells, boosts the expression of NDUFA4L2 through a mechanism mediated by hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α). NDUFA4L2 limits the production of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species that activate XBP1-driven transcriptional modules in DCs that are involved in the control of pathogenic autoimmune T cells. We also engineer a probiotic that produces lactate and suppresses T cell autoimmunity through the activation of HIF-1α-NDUFA4L2 signalling in DCs. In summary, we identify an immunometabolic pathway that regulates DC function, and develop a synthetic probiotic for its therapeutic activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liliana M Sanmarco
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Joseph M Rone
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Evergrande Center for Immunologic Diseases, Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Carolina M Polonio
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Gonzalo Fernandez Lahore
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Evergrande Center for Immunologic Diseases, Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Federico Giovannoni
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kylynne Ferrara
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Cristina Gutierrez-Vazquez
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ning Li
- Synlogic Therapeutics, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | | | - Agustin Plasencia
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Camilo Faust Akl
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Payal Nanda
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Evelin S Heck
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Zhaorong Li
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Hong-Gyun Lee
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Chun-Cheih Chao
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Claudia M Rejano-Gordillo
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Pedro H Fonseca-Castro
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Tomer Illouz
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Mathias Linnerbauer
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jessica E Kenison
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Rocky M Barilla
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Evergrande Center for Immunologic Diseases, Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Daniel Farrenkopf
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Nikolas A Stevens
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Gavin Piester
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Elizabeth N Chung
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Lucas Dailey
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Vijay K Kuchroo
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Evergrande Center for Immunologic Diseases, Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - David Hava
- Synlogic Therapeutics, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Michael A Wheeler
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Clary Clish
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Roni Nowarski
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Evergrande Center for Immunologic Diseases, Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Eduardo Balsa
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa UAM-CSIC, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Francisco J Quintana
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA.
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34
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Arnold J, Glazier J, Mimee M. Genetic Engineering of Resident Bacteria in the Gut Microbiome. J Bacteriol 2023; 205:e0012723. [PMID: 37382533 PMCID: PMC10367592 DOI: 10.1128/jb.00127-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Techniques by which to genetically manipulate members of the microbiota enable both the evaluation of host-microbe interactions and an avenue by which to monitor and modulate human physiology. Genetic engineering applications have traditionally focused on model gut residents, such as Escherichia coli and lactic acid bacteria. However, emerging efforts by which to develop synthetic biology toolsets for "nonmodel" resident gut microbes could provide an improved foundation for microbiome engineering. As genome engineering tools come online, so too have novel applications for engineered gut microbes. Engineered resident gut bacteria facilitate investigations of the roles of microbes and their metabolites on host health and allow for potential live microbial biotherapeutics. Due to the rapid pace of discovery in this burgeoning field, this minireview highlights advancements in the genetic engineering of all resident gut microbes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack Arnold
- Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Joshua Glazier
- Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Mark Mimee
- Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Department of Microbiology, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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35
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Chlebek JL, Leonard SP, Kang-Yun C, Yung MC, Ricci DP, Jiao Y, Park DM. Prolonging genetic circuit stability through adaptive evolution of overlapping genes. Nucleic Acids Res 2023; 51:7094-7108. [PMID: 37260076 PMCID: PMC10359631 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkad484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The development of synthetic biological circuits that maintain functionality over application-relevant time scales remains a significant challenge. Here, we employed synthetic overlapping sequences in which one gene is encoded or 'entangled' entirely within an alternative reading frame of another gene. In this design, the toxin-encoding relE was entangled within ilvA, which encodes threonine deaminase, an enzyme essential for isoleucine biosynthesis. A functional entanglement construct was obtained upon modification of the ribosome-binding site of the internal relE gene. Using this optimized design, we found that the selection pressure to maintain functional IlvA stabilized the production of burdensome RelE for >130 generations, which compares favorably with the most stable kill-switch circuits developed to date. This stabilizing effect was achieved through a complete alteration of the allowable landscape of mutations such that mutations inactivating the entangled genes were disfavored. Instead, the majority of lineages accumulated mutations within the regulatory region of ilvA. By reducing baseline relE expression, these more 'benign' mutations lowered circuit burden, which suppressed the accumulation of relE-inactivating mutations, thereby prolonging kill-switch function. Overall, this work demonstrates the utility of sequence entanglement paired with an adaptive laboratory evolution campaign to increase the evolutionary stability of burdensome synthetic circuits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L Chlebek
- Biosciences and Biotechnology Division, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA 94550, USA
| | - Sean P Leonard
- Biosciences and Biotechnology Division, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA 94550, USA
| | - Christina Kang-Yun
- Biosciences and Biotechnology Division, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA 94550, USA
| | - Mimi C Yung
- Biosciences and Biotechnology Division, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA 94550, USA
| | - Dante P Ricci
- Biosciences and Biotechnology Division, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA 94550, USA
| | - Yongqin Jiao
- Biosciences and Biotechnology Division, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA 94550, USA
| | - Dan M Park
- Biosciences and Biotechnology Division, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA 94550, USA
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Dong MM, Song L, Xu JQ, Zhu L, Xiong LB, Wei DZ, Wang FQ. Improved cryptic plasmids in probiotic Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 for antibiotic-free pathway engineering. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2023:10.1007/s00253-023-12662-6. [PMID: 37405431 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-023-12662-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023]
Abstract
The engineered probiotic Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 (EcN) is expected to be employed in the diagnosis and treatment of various diseases. However, the introduced plasmids typically require antibiotics to maintain genetic stability, and the cryptic plasmids in EcN are usually eliminated to avoid plasmid incompatibility which may change the inherent probiotic characteristics. Here, we provided a simple design to minimize the genetic change of probiotics by eliminating native plasmids and reintroducing the recombinants carrying functional genes. Specific insertion sites in the vectors showed significant differences in the expression of fluorescence proteins. Selected integration sites were applied in the de novo synthesis of salicylic acid, leading to a titer of 142.0 ± 6.0 mg/L in a shake flask with good production stability. Additionally, the design successfully realized the biosynthesis of ergothioneine (45 mg/L) by one-step construction. This work expands the application scope of native cryptic plasmids to the easy construction of functional pathways. KEY POINTS: • Cryptic plasmids of EcN were designed to express exogenous genes • Insertion sites with different expression intensities in cryptic plasmids were provided • Target products were stably produced by engineering cryptic plasmids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miao-Miao Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, Newworld Institute of Biotechnology, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Lu Song
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, Newworld Institute of Biotechnology, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Jia-Qi Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, Newworld Institute of Biotechnology, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Lin Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, Newworld Institute of Biotechnology, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Liang-Bin Xiong
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, Newworld Institute of Biotechnology, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China.
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Shanghai, 201318, China.
| | - Dong-Zhi Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, Newworld Institute of Biotechnology, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Feng-Qing Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, Newworld Institute of Biotechnology, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China.
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Bianchi M, Rossi L, Pierigè F, Biagiotti S, Bregalda A, Tasini F, Magnani M. Preclinical and clinical developments in enzyme-loaded red blood cells: an update. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2023; 20:921-935. [PMID: 37249524 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2023.2219890] [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: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION We have previously described the preclinical developments in enzyme-loaded red blood cells to be used in the treatment of several rare diseases, as well as in chronic conditions. AREA COVERED Since our previous publication we have seen further progress in the previously discussed approaches and, interestingly enough, in additional new studies that further strengthen the idea that red blood cell-based therapeutics may have unique advantages over conventional enzyme replacement therapies in terms of efficacy and safety. Here we highlight these investigations and compare, when possible, the reported results versus the current therapeutic approaches. EXPERT OPINION The continuous increase in the number of new potential applications and the progress from the encapsulation of a single enzyme to the engineering of an entire metabolic pathway open the field to unexpected developments and confirm the role of red blood cells as cellular bioreactors that can be conveniently manipulated to acquire useful therapeutic metabolic abilities. Positioning of these new approaches versus newly approved drugs is essential for the successful transition of this technology from the preclinical to the clinical stage and hopefully to final approval.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marzia Bianchi
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Urbino, Italy
| | - Luigia Rossi
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Urbino, Italy
- EryDel SpA, Bresso, MI, Italy
| | - Francesca Pierigè
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Urbino, Italy
| | - Sara Biagiotti
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Urbino, Italy
| | - Alessandro Bregalda
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Urbino, Italy
| | - Filippo Tasini
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Urbino, Italy
| | - Mauro Magnani
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Urbino, Italy
- EryDel SpA, Bresso, MI, Italy
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38
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Ciocan D, Elinav E. Engineering bacteria to modulate host metabolism. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2023; 238:e14001. [PMID: 37222395 PMCID: PMC10909415 DOI: 10.1111/apha.14001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
The microbial community of the gut, collectively termed the gut microbiota, modulates both host metabolism and disease development in a variety of clinical contexts. The microbiota can have detrimental effects and be involved in disease development and progression, but it can also offer benefits to the host. This has led in the last years to the development of different therapeutic strategies targeting the microbiota. In this review, we will focus on one of these strategies that involve the use of engineered bacteria to modulate gut microbiota in the treatment of metabolic disorders. We will discuss the recent developments and challenges in the use of these bacterial strains with an emphasis on their use for the treatment of metabolic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dragos Ciocan
- Systems Immunology DepartmentWeisman Institute of ScienceRehovotIsrael
- School of MedicineParis‐Saclay UniversityLe Kremlin‐BicêtreFrance
| | - Eran Elinav
- Systems Immunology DepartmentWeisman Institute of ScienceRehovotIsrael
- Microbiota & Cancer DivisionDKFZHeidelbergGermany
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Zuo Z, Zhao F. Gut microbiota-targeted interventions: from conventional approaches to genetic engineering. Sci Bull (Beijing) 2023:S2095-9273(23)00337-7. [PMID: 37258375 DOI: 10.1016/j.scib.2023.05.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Zhenqiang Zuo
- Beijing Institutes of Life Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Fangqing Zhao
- Beijing Institutes of Life Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; Key Laboratory of Systems Biology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310000, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.
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40
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Sanmarco LM, Rone JM, Polonio CM, Giovannoni F, Lahore GF, Ferrara K, Gutierrez-Vazquez C, Li N, Sokolovska A, Plasencia A, Akl CF, Nanda P, Heck ES, Li Z, Lee HG, Chao CC, Rejano-Gordillo CM, Fonseca-Castro PH, Illouz T, Linnerbauer M, Kenison JE, Barilla RM, Farrenkopf D, Piester G, Dailey L, Kuchroo VK, Hava D, Wheeler MA, Clish C, Nowarski R, Balsa E, Lora JM, Quintana FJ. Engineered probiotics limit CNS autoimmunity by stabilizing HIF-1α in dendritic cells. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.03.17.532101. [PMID: 36993446 PMCID: PMC10055137 DOI: 10.1101/2023.03.17.532101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/31/2023]
Abstract
Dendritic cells (DCs) control the generation of self-reactive pathogenic T cells. Thus, DCs are considered attractive therapeutic targets for autoimmune diseases. Using single-cell and bulk transcriptional and metabolic analyses in combination with cell-specific gene perturbation studies we identified a negative feedback regulatory pathway that operates in DCs to limit immunopathology. Specifically, we found that lactate, produced by activated DCs and other immune cells, boosts NDUFA4L2 expression through a mechanism mediated by HIF-1α. NDUFA4L2 limits the production of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species that activate XBP1-driven transcriptional modules in DCs involved in the control of pathogenic autoimmune T cells. Moreover, we engineered a probiotic that produces lactate and suppresses T-cell autoimmunity in the central nervous system via the activation of HIF-1α/NDUFA4L2 signaling in DCs. In summary, we identified an immunometabolic pathway that regulates DC function, and developed a synthetic probiotic for its therapeutic activation.
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41
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Hu H, Luo J, Liu Y, Li H, Jin R, Li S, Wei J, Wei H, Chen T. Improvement effect of a next-generation probiotic L. plantarum-pMG36e-GLP-1 on type 2 diabetes mellitus via the gut-pancreas-liver axis. Food Funct 2023; 14:3179-3195. [PMID: 36912589 DOI: 10.1039/d3fo00044c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/06/2023]
Abstract
Next-generation probiotics (NGPs) are currently being investigated as therapeutic agents that impact the gut microbiota and disease development. Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) shows an excellent therapeutic effect on diabetes, but has an extremely short half-life in vivo. Here, we constructed a novel and diabetes-specific NGP, the genetically engineered strain Lactobacillus plantarum (L. plantarum)-pMG36e-GLP-1, and evaluated its ameliorative effect on type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in artificially induced mice and transgenic mice. In vitro, L. plantarum-pMG36e-GLP-1 showed good genetic stability and probiotic characteristics. In the high-fat diet combined with streptozotocin (HFD/STZ)-induced T2DM mice, L. plantarum-pMG36e-GLP-1 relieved the diabetic symptoms, regulated the intestinal microbiota, and reduced the inflammatory reaction in the pancreatic tissue. Meanwhile, the apoptosis of pancreatic islet cells was inhibited, while islet tissue morphology repairs, islet β-cell proliferation, and insulin secretion were all promoted by L. plantarum-pMG36e-GLP-1. Furthermore, a similar effect of the engineered strain on diabetic symptoms and the pancreas was observed in db/db mice, and the metabolism of lipids in the liver was regulated. Together, the findings of this study confirmed the anti-hyperglycemic effect of the engineered strain L. plantarum-pMG36e-GLP-1, providing a promising approach for T2DM treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Hu
- National Engineering Research Center for Bioengineering Drugs and the Technologies, Institute of Translational Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, P. R. China.
| | - Jie Luo
- School of Public Health and Key Laboratory of Preventive Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, P. R. China
| | - Ying Liu
- Life Science Institute, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, P. R. China
| | - Hongyu Li
- School of Queen Mary, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330031, P. R. China
| | - Rui Jin
- School of Queen Mary, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330031, P. R. China
| | - Shengjie Li
- National Engineering Research Center for Bioengineering Drugs and the Technologies, Institute of Translational Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, P. R. China.
| | - Jing Wei
- National Engineering Research Center for Bioengineering Drugs and the Technologies, Institute of Translational Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, P. R. China.
| | - Hong Wei
- Precision Medicine Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, P. R. China.
| | - Tingtao Chen
- National Engineering Research Center for Bioengineering Drugs and the Technologies, Institute of Translational Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, P. R. China.
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42
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He L, Tang W, Huang L, Zhou W, Huang S, Zou L, Yuan L, Men D, Chen S, Hu Y. Rational design of a genome-based insulated system in Escherichia coli facilitates heterologous uricase expression for hyperuricemia treatment. Bioeng Transl Med 2023; 8:e10449. [PMID: 36925686 PMCID: PMC10013758 DOI: 10.1002/btm2.10449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Revised: 09/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Hyperuricemia is a prevalent disease worldwide that is characterized by elevated urate levels in the blood owing to purine metabolic disorders, which can result in gout and comorbidities. To facilitate the treatment of hyperuricemia through the uricolysis, we engineered a probiotic Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 (EcN) named EcN C6 by inserting an FtsP-uricase cassette into an "insulated site" located between the uspG and ahpF genes. Expression of FtsP-uricase in this insulated region did not influence the probiotic properties or global gene transcription of EcN but strongly increased the enzymatic activity for urate degeneration, suggesting that the genome-based insulated system is an ideal strategy for EcN modification. Oral administration of EcN C6 successfully alleviated hyperuricemia, related symptoms and gut microbiota in a purine-rich food-induced hyperuricemia rat model and a uox-knockout mouse model. Together, our study provides an insulated site for heterologous gene expression in EcN strain and a recombinant EcN C6 strain as a safe and effective therapeutic candidate for hyperuricemia treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lina He
- CAS Key Laboratory of Special Pathogens and Biosafety Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences Wuhan China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing China
| | - Wei Tang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Special Pathogens and Biosafety Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences Wuhan China
| | - Ling Huang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Special Pathogens and Biosafety Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences Wuhan China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing China
| | - Wei Zhou
- CAS Key Laboratory of Special Pathogens and Biosafety Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences Wuhan China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing China
| | - Shaojia Huang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Special Pathogens and Biosafety Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences Wuhan China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing China
| | - Linxuan Zou
- CAS Key Laboratory of Special Pathogens and Biosafety Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences Wuhan China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing China
| | - Lisha Yuan
- CAS Key Laboratory of Special Pathogens and Biosafety Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences Wuhan China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing China
| | - Dong Men
- State Key Laboratory of Virology Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences Wuhan China
| | - Shiyun Chen
- CAS Key Laboratory of Special Pathogens and Biosafety Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences Wuhan China
| | - Yangbo Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Virology Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences Wuhan China.,Hubei Jiangxia Laboratory Wuhan China
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43
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Kalantari A, James MJ, Renaud LA, Perreault M, Monahan CE, McDonald MN, Hava DL, Isabella VM. Robust performance of a live bacterial therapeutic chassis lacking the colibactin gene cluster. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0280499. [PMID: 36730255 PMCID: PMC9894410 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0280499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
E. coli Nissle (EcN) is a non-pathogenic probiotic bacterium of the Enterobacteriaceae family that has been used for over a century to promote general gut health. Despite the history of safe usage of EcN, concerns have been raised regarding the presence of the pks gene cluster, encoding the genotoxin colibactin, due to its association with colorectal cancer. Here, we sought to determine the effect of pks island removal on the in vitro and in vivo robustness and activity of EcN and EcN-derived strains. A deletion of the pks island (Δpks) was constructed in wild type and engineered strains of EcN using lambda red recombineering. Mass spectrometric measurement of N-myristoyl-D-asparagine, released during colibactin maturation, confirmed that the pks deletion abrogated colibactin production. Growth curves were comparable between Δpks strains and their isogenic parents, and wild type EcN displayed no competitive advantage to the Δpks strain in mixed culture. Deletion of pks also had no effect on the activity of strains engineered to degrade phenylalanine (SYNB1618 and SYNB1934) or oxalate (SYNB8802). Furthermore, 1:1 mixed dosing of wild type and Δpks EcN in preclinical mouse and nonhuman primate models demonstrated no competitive disadvantage for the Δpks strain with regards to transit time or colonization. Importantly, there was no significant difference on in vivo strain performance between the clinical-stage strain SYNB1934 and its isogenic Δpks variant with regards to recovery of the quantitative strain-specific biomarkers d5- trans-cinnamic acid, and d5-hippuric acid. Taken together, these data support that the pks island is dispensable for Synthetic Biotic fitness and activity in vivo and that its removal from engineered strains of EcN will not have a deleterious effect on strain efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aida Kalantari
- Synlogic, Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
- * E-mail: (VMI); (AK)
| | - Michael J. James
- Synlogic, Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Lauren A. Renaud
- Synlogic, Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Mylene Perreault
- Synlogic, Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | | | - Mary N. McDonald
- Synlogic, Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - David L. Hava
- Synlogic, Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Vincent M. Isabella
- Synlogic, Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
- * E-mail: (VMI); (AK)
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44
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Majtan T, Kožich V, Kruger WD. Recent therapeutic approaches to cystathionine beta-synthase-deficient homocystinuria. Br J Pharmacol 2023; 180:264-278. [PMID: 36417581 PMCID: PMC9822868 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Cystathionine beta-synthase (CBS)-deficient homocystinuria (HCU) is the most common inborn error of sulfur amino acid metabolism. The pyridoxine non-responsive form of the disease manifests itself by massively increasing plasma and tissue concentrations of homocysteine, a toxic intermediate of methionine metabolism that is thought to be the major cause of clinical complications including skeletal deformities, connective tissue defects, thromboembolism and cognitive impairment. The current standard of care involves significant dietary interventions that, despite being effective, often adversely affect quality of life of HCU patients, leading to poor adherence to therapy and inadequate biochemical control with clinical complications. In recent years, the unmet need for better therapeutic options has resulted in development of novel enzyme and gene therapies and exploration of pharmacological approaches to rescue CBS folding defects caused by missense pathogenic mutations. Here, we review scientific evidence and current state of affairs in development of recent approaches to treat HCU.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomas Majtan
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Fribourg, Faculty of Science and Medicine, Fribourg, 1700, Switzerland
| | - Viktor Kožich
- Department of Pediatrics and Inherited Metabolic Disorders, Charles University-First Faculty of Medicine, Prague, 12808, Czech Republic
- Department of Pediatrics and Inherited Metabolic Disorders, General University Hospital in Prague, Prague, 12808, Czech Republic
| | - Warren D. Kruger
- Molecular Therapeutics Program, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA, 19111, USA
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Fekete EE, Figeys D, Zhang X. Microbiota-directed biotherapeutics: considerations for quality and functional assessment. Gut Microbes 2023; 15:2186671. [PMID: 36896938 PMCID: PMC10012963 DOI: 10.1080/19490976.2023.2186671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Mounting evidence points to causative or correlative roles of gut microbiome in the development of a myriad of diseases ranging from gastrointestinal diseases, metabolic diseases to neurological disorders and cancers. Consequently, efforts have been made to develop and apply therapeutics targeting the human microbiome, in particular the gut microbiota, for treating diseases and maintaining wellness. Here we summarize the current development of gut microbiota-directed therapeutics with a focus on novel biotherapeutics, elaborate the need of advanced -omics approaches for evaluating the microbiota-type biotherapeutics, and discuss the clinical and regulatory challenges. We also discuss the development and potential application of ex vivo microbiome assays and in vitro intestinal cellular models in this context. Altogether, this review aims to provide a broad view of promises and challenges of the emerging field of microbiome-directed human healthcare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Ef Fekete
- Regulatory Research Division, Centre for Oncology, Radiopharmaceuticals and Research, Biologic and Radiopharmaceutical Drugs Directorate, Health Products and Food Branch, Health Canada, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Daniel Figeys
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada.,Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology and Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Xu Zhang
- Regulatory Research Division, Centre for Oncology, Radiopharmaceuticals and Research, Biologic and Radiopharmaceutical Drugs Directorate, Health Products and Food Branch, Health Canada, Ottawa, Canada.,School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
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46
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Expression of phenylalanine ammonia lyase as an intracellularly free and extracellularly cell surface-immobilized enzyme on a gut microbe as a live biotherapeutic for phenylketonuria. SCIENCE CHINA. LIFE SCIENCES 2023; 66:127-136. [PMID: 35907113 PMCID: PMC9362719 DOI: 10.1007/s11427-021-2137-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Phenylketonuria (PKU), a disease resulting in the disability to degrade phenylalanine (Phe) is an inborn error with a 1 in 10,000 morbidity rate on average around the world which leads to neurotoxicity. As an potential alternative to a protein-restricted diet, oral intake of engineered probiotics degrading Phe inside the body is a promising treatment, currently at clinical stage II (Isabella, et al., 2018). However, limited transmembrane transport of Phe is a bottleneck to further improvement of the probiotic's activity. Here, we achieved simultaneous degradation of Phe both intracellularly and extracellularly by expressing genes encoding the Phe-metabolizing enzyme phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL) as an intracellularly free and a cell surface-immobilized enzyme in Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 (EcN) which overcomes the transportation problem. The metabolic engineering strategy was also combined with strengthening of Phe transportation, transportation of PAL-catalyzed trans-cinnamic acid and fixation of released ammonia. Administration of our final synthetic strain TYS8500 with PAL both displayed on the cell surface and expressed inside the cell to the PahF263S PKU mouse model reduced blood Phe concentration by 44.4% compared to the control EcN, independent of dietary protein intake. TYS8500 shows great potential in future applications for PKU therapy.
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47
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van ‘t Hof M, Mohite OS, Monk JM, Weber T, Palsson BO, Sommer MOA. High-quality genome-scale metabolic network reconstruction of probiotic bacterium Escherichia coli Nissle 1917. BMC Bioinformatics 2022; 23:566. [PMID: 36585633 PMCID: PMC9801561 DOI: 10.1186/s12859-022-05108-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 (EcN) is a probiotic bacterium used to treat various gastrointestinal diseases. EcN is increasingly being used as a chassis for the engineering of advanced microbiome therapeutics. To aid in future engineering efforts, our aim was to construct an updated metabolic model of EcN with extended secondary metabolite representation. RESULTS An updated high-quality genome-scale metabolic model of EcN, iHM1533, was developed based on comparison with 55 E. coli/Shigella reference GEMs and manual curation, including expanded secondary metabolite pathways (enterobactin, salmochelins, aerobactin, yersiniabactin, and colibactin). The model was validated and improved using phenotype microarray data, resulting in an 82.3% accuracy in predicting growth phenotypes on various nutrition sources. Flux variability analysis with previously published 13C fluxomics data validated prediction of the internal central carbon fluxes. A standardised test suite called Memote assessed the quality of iHM1533 to have an overall score of 89%. The model was applied by using constraint-based flux analysis to predict targets for optimisation of secondary metabolite production. Modelling predicted design targets from across amino acid metabolism, carbon metabolism, and other subsystems that are common or unique for influencing the production of various secondary metabolites. CONCLUSION iHM1533 represents a well-annotated metabolic model of EcN with extended secondary metabolite representation. Phenotype characterisation and the iHM1533 model provide a better understanding of the metabolic capabilities of EcN and will help future metabolic engineering efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max van ‘t Hof
- grid.5170.30000 0001 2181 8870The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Omkar S. Mohite
- grid.5170.30000 0001 2181 8870The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Jonathan M. Monk
- grid.266100.30000 0001 2107 4242Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093 USA
| | - Tilmann Weber
- grid.5170.30000 0001 2181 8870The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Bernhard O. Palsson
- grid.5170.30000 0001 2181 8870The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kongens Lyngby, Denmark ,grid.266100.30000 0001 2107 4242Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093 USA
| | - Morten O. A. Sommer
- grid.5170.30000 0001 2181 8870The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
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48
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Yaashikaa PR, Devi MK, Kumar PS. Engineering microbes for enhancing the degradation of environmental pollutants: A detailed review on synthetic biology. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 214:113868. [PMID: 35835162 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2022.113868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Revised: 05/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Anthropogenic activities resulted in the deposition of huge quantities of contaminants such as heavy metals, dyes, hydrocarbons, etc into an ecosystem. The serious ill effects caused by these pollutants to all living organisms forced in advancement of technology for degrading or removing these pollutants. This degrading activity is mostly depending on microorganisms owing to their ability to survive in harsh adverse conditions. Though native strains possess the capability to degrade these pollutants the development of genetic engineering and molecular biology resulted in engineering approaches that enhanced the efficiency of microbes in degrading pollutants at faster rate. Many bioinformatics tools have been developed for altering/modifying genetic content in microbes to increase their degrading potency. This review provides a detailed note on engineered microbes - their significant importance in degrading environmental contaminants and the approaches utilized for modifying microbes. The genes responsible for degrading the pollutants have been identified and modified fir increasing the potential for quick degradation. The methods for increasing the tolerance in engineered microbes have also been discussed. Thus engineered microbes prove to be effective alternate compared to native strains for degrading pollutants.
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Affiliation(s)
- P R Yaashikaa
- Department of Biotechnology, Saveetha School of Engineering, SIMATS, Chennai, 602105, India
| | - M Keerthana Devi
- Department of Biotechnology, Saveetha School of Engineering, SIMATS, Chennai, 602105, India
| | - P Senthil Kumar
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Sri Sivasubramaniya Nadar College of Engineering, Chennai, 603110, India; Centre of Excellence in Water Research (CEWAR), Sri Sivasubramaniya Nadar College of Engineering, Chennai, 603110, India.
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49
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Huang Y, Lin X, Yu S, Chen R, Chen W. Intestinal Engineered Probiotics as Living Therapeutics: Chassis Selection, Colonization Enhancement, Gene Circuit Design, and Biocontainment. ACS Synth Biol 2022; 11:3134-3153. [PMID: 36094344 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.2c00314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Intestinal probiotics are often used for the in situ treatment of diseases, such as metabolic disorders, tumors, and chronic inflammatory infections. Recently, there has been an increased emphasis on intelligent, customized treatments with a focus on long-term efficacy; however, traditional probiotic therapy has not kept up with this trend. The use of synthetic biology to construct gut-engineered probiotics as live therapeutics is a promising avenue in the treatment of specific diseases, such as phenylketonuria and inflammatory bowel disease. These studies generally involve a series of fundamental design issues: choosing an engineered chassis, improving the colonization ability of engineered probiotics, designing functional gene circuits, and ensuring the safety of engineered probiotics. In this review, we summarize the relevant past research, the progress of current research, and discuss the key issues that restrict the widespread application of intestinal engineered probiotic living therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Huang
- Team SZU-China at iGEM 2021, College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Xiaojun Lin
- Team SZU-China at iGEM 2021, College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Siyang Yu
- Team SZU-China at iGEM 2021, College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Ruiyue Chen
- Team SZU-China at iGEM 2021, Institute for Advanced Study, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Weizhao Chen
- Team SZU-China at iGEM 2021, College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China.,Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Microbial Gene Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
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50
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Liu Y, Feng J, Pan H, Zhang X, Zhang Y. Genetically engineered bacterium: Principles, practices, and prospects. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:997587. [PMID: 36312915 PMCID: PMC9606703 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.997587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Advances in synthetic biology and the clinical application of bacteriotherapy enable the use of genetically engineered bacteria (GEB) to combat various diseases. GEB act as a small ‘machine factory’ in the intestine or other tissues to continuously produce heterologous proteins or molecular compounds and, thus, diagnose or cure disease or work as an adjuvant reagent for disease treatment by regulating the immune system. Although the achievements of GEBs in the treatment or adjuvant therapy of diseases are promising, the practical implementation of this new therapeutic modality remains a grand challenge, especially at the initial stage. In this review, we introduce the development of GEBs and their advantages in disease management, summarize the latest research advances in microbial genetic techniques, and discuss their administration routes, performance indicators and the limitations of GEBs used as platforms for disease management. We also present several examples of GEB applications in the treatment of cancers and metabolic diseases and further highlight their great potential for clinical application in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiting Liu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Affiliated Jiangning Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Biomedical Engineering and Informatics, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jing Feng
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Affiliated Jiangning Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Biomedical Engineering and Informatics, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hangcheng Pan
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Affiliated Jiangning Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiuwei Zhang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Affiliated Jiangning Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- *Correspondence: Xiuwei Zhang,
| | - Yunlei Zhang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Affiliated Jiangning Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Biomedical Engineering and Informatics, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Central Laboratory, Translational Medicine Research Center, The Affiliated Jiangning Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Yunlei Zhang,
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