1
|
Choules MP, Bonate PL, Heo N, Weddell J. Prospective approaches to gene therapy computational modeling - spotlight on viral gene therapy. J Pharmacokinet Pharmacodyn 2024; 51:399-416. [PMID: 37848637 DOI: 10.1007/s10928-023-09889-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023]
Abstract
Clinical studies have found there still exists a lack of gene therapy dose-toxicity and dose-efficacy data that causes gene therapy dose selection to remain elusive. Model informed drug development (MIDD) has become a standard tool implemented throughout the discovery, development, and approval of pharmaceutical therapies, and has the potential to inform dose-toxicity and dose-efficacy relationships to support gene therapy dose selection. Despite this potential, MIDD approaches for gene therapy remain immature and require standardization to be useful for gene therapy clinical programs. With the goal to advance MIDD approaches for gene therapy, in this review we first provide an overview of gene therapy types and how they differ from a bioanalytical, formulation, route of administration, and regulatory standpoint. With this biological and regulatory background, we propose how MIDD can be advanced for AAV-based gene therapies by utilizing physiological based pharmacokinetic modeling and quantitative systems pharmacology to holistically inform AAV and target protein dynamics following dosing. We discuss how this proposed model, allowing for in-depth exploration of AAV pharmacology, could be the key the field needs to treat these unmet disease populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mary P Choules
- Early Development, New Technologies Group, Astellas, Northbrook, IL, USA
| | - Peter L Bonate
- Early Development, New Technologies Group, Astellas, Northbrook, IL, USA.
| | - Nakyo Heo
- Early Development, New Technologies Group, Astellas, Northbrook, IL, USA
| | - Jared Weddell
- Early Development, New Technologies Group, Astellas, Northbrook, IL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Patra AT, Tan E, Kok YJ, Ng SK, Bi X. Temporal insights into molecular and cellular responses during rAAV production in HEK293T cells. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2024; 32:101278. [PMID: 39022743 PMCID: PMC11253160 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2024.101278] [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: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
The gene therapy field seeks cost-effective, large-scale production of recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) vectors for high-dosage therapeutic applications. Although strategies like suspension cell culture and transfection optimization have shown moderate success, challenges persist for large-scale applications. To unravel molecular and cellular mechanisms influencing rAAV production, we conducted an SWATH-MS proteomic analysis of HEK293T cells transfected using standard, sub-optimal, and optimal conditions. Gene Ontology and pathway analysis revealed significant protein expression variations, particularly in processes related to cellular homeostasis, metabolic regulation, vesicular transport, ribosomal biogenesis, and cellular proliferation under optimal transfection conditions. This resulted in a 50% increase in rAAV titer compared with the standard protocol. Additionally, we identified modifications in host cell proteins crucial for AAV mRNA stability and gene translation, particularly regarding AAV capsid transcripts under optimal transfection conditions. Our study identified 124 host proteins associated with AAV replication and assembly, each exhibiting distinct expression pattern throughout rAAV production stages in optimal transfection condition. This investigation sheds light on the cellular mechanisms involved in rAAV production in HEK293T cells and proposes promising avenues for further enhancing rAAV titer during production.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alok Tanala Patra
- Bioprocessing Technology Institute (BTI), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), Singapore 138668, Singapore
| | - Evan Tan
- Bioprocessing Technology Institute (BTI), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), Singapore 138668, Singapore
| | - Yee Jiun Kok
- Bioprocessing Technology Institute (BTI), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), Singapore 138668, Singapore
| | - Say Kong Ng
- Bioprocessing Technology Institute (BTI), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), Singapore 138668, Singapore
| | - Xuezhi Bi
- Bioprocessing Technology Institute (BTI), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), Singapore 138668, Singapore
- Duke-NUS Medical School, National University of Singapore, Singapore 169857, Singapore
- Food, Chemical and Biotechnology Cluster, Singapore Institute of Technology, Singapore 138683, Singapore
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Xie Y, Butler M. N-glycomic profiling of capsid proteins from Adeno-Associated Virus serotypes. Glycobiology 2024; 34:cwad074. [PMID: 37774344 PMCID: PMC10950483 DOI: 10.1093/glycob/cwad074] [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: 05/01/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector has become the leading platform for gene delivery. Each serotype exhibits a different tissue tropism, immunogenicity, and in vivo transduction performance. Therefore, selecting the most suitable AAV serotype is critical for efficient gene delivery to target cells or tissues. Genome divergence among different serotypes is due mainly to the hypervariable regions of the AAV capsid proteins. However, the heterogeneity of capsid glycosylation is largely unexplored. In the present study, the N-glycosylation profiles of capsid proteins of AAV serotypes 1 to 9 have been systemically characterized and compared using a previously developed high-throughput and high-sensitivity N-glycan profiling platform. The results showed that all 9 investigated AAV serotypes were glycosylated, with comparable profiles. The most conspicuous feature was the high abundance mannosylated N-glycans, including FM3, M5, M6, M7, M8, and M9, that dominated the chromatograms within a range of 74 to 83%. Another feature was the relatively lower abundance of fucosylated and sialylated N-glycan structures, in the range of 23%-40% and 10%-17%, respectively. However, the exact N-glycan composition differed. These differences may be utilized to identify potential structural relationships between the 9 AAV serotypes. The current research lays the foundation for gaining better understanding of the importance of N-glycans on the AAV capsid surface that may play a significant role in tissue tropism, interaction with cell surface receptors, cellular uptake, and intracellular processing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yongjing Xie
- National Institute for Bioprocessing Research and Training, Foster Avenue, Mount Merrion, Blackrock, Co. Dublin, A94 X099, Ireland
| | - Michael Butler
- National Institute for Bioprocessing Research and Training, Foster Avenue, Mount Merrion, Blackrock, Co. Dublin, A94 X099, Ireland
- School of Chemical and Bioprocess Engineering, University College Dublin (UCD), Belfield, Dublin 4, D04 V1W8, Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Dai M, Yang N, Xu K, Zhang J, Li X, Zhang Y, Li W. Discovering human cell-compatible gene therapy virus variants via optimized screening in mouse models. Cell Prolif 2024; 57:e13565. [PMID: 37864397 PMCID: PMC10905335 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.13565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023] Open
Abstract
In gene therapy, intravenous injection of viral vectors reigns as the primary administration route. These vectors include adeno-associated viruses, adenoviruses, herpes viruses, rhabdoviruses and others. However, these naturally occurring viruses lack inherent tissue or organ tropism for tailored disease treatment. To address this, we devised an optimized process involving directed viral capsid evolution, organ-specific humanized mouse models and in vitro-in vivo virus screening. Our approach allows for the rapid generation specifically modified adeno-associated virus variants, surpassing the time required for natural evolution, which spans millions of years. Notably, these variants exhibit robust targeting of the liver, favouring chimeric human liver cells over murine hepatocytes. Furthermore, certain variants achieve augmented targeting with reduced off-target organ infection, thereby mitigating dosage requirements and enhancing safety in gene therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Moyu Dai
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative MedicineChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Ning Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative MedicineChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Kai Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative MedicineChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative MedicineChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Jingwen Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- College of Life ScienceNankai UniversityTianjinChina
| | - Xueke Li
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative MedicineChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Ying Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative MedicineChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative MedicineChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Wei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative MedicineChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative MedicineChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Fu X, Suo H, Zhang J, Chen D. Machine-learning-guided Directed Evolution for AAV Capsid Engineering. Curr Pharm Des 2024; 30:811-824. [PMID: 38445704 DOI: 10.2174/0113816128286593240226060318] [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: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
Target gene delivery is crucial to gene therapy. Adeno-associated virus (AAV) has emerged as a primary gene therapy vector due to its broad host range, long-term expression, and low pathogenicity. However, AAV vectors have some limitations, such as immunogenicity and insufficient targeting. Designing or modifying capsids is a potential method of improving the efficacy of gene delivery, but hindered by weak biological basis of AAV, complexity of the capsids, and limitations of current screening methods. Artificial intelligence (AI), especially machine learning (ML), has great potential to accelerate and improve the optimization of capsid properties as well as decrease their development time and manufacturing costs. This review introduces the traditional methods of designing AAV capsids and the general steps of building a sequence-function ML model, highlights the applications of ML in the development workflow, and summarizes its advantages and challenges.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xianrong Fu
- School of Artificial Intelligence, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou 310018, China
| | - Hairui Suo
- School of Artificial Intelligence, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou 310018, China
| | - Jiachen Zhang
- School of Artificial Intelligence, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou 310018, China
| | - Dongmei Chen
- School of Artificial Intelligence, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou 310018, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Ay C, Frenzel L, Pinachyan K, Le Quellec S. Gene therapy for haemophilia A and B, from basic principles to clinical implementation: An illustrated review. Haemophilia 2024; 30:5-15. [PMID: 38111029 DOI: 10.1111/hae.14907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION With recent approval of the first two gene therapies for haemophilia A and B, educational materials about AAV-based gene therapy are needed by the haemophilia community for a better understanding of this novel therapeutic approach and helping healthcare providers and patients making personalized choices amongst an increasing array of therapeutic options. AIM To provide a comprehensive summary of the whole process of AAV-based gene therapy from basic principles to clinical implementation through an illustrated review. METHODS The authors, with expertise in and knowledge about gene therapy for haemophilia A and B, reviewed relevant articles from PubMed database and translated them into illustrations. RESULTS The review is divided into eight illustrated sections providing an overview of gene therapy for haemophilia A and B from haemophilia basics and current treatment landscape, principles of the AAV-based liver-directed gene therapy, through exploring the efficacy and safety results of published phase III clinical trials, current and future challenges, to implementation in clinical practice, including the hub and spoke models and the patient journey. CONCLUSION This illustrated review educates healthcare professionals on AAV-based gene therapy for haemophilia A and B enabling them to further educate their peers and their patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cihan Ay
- Department of Medicine I, Clinical Division of Hematology and Hemostaseology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Laurent Frenzel
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms of Hematological Disorders and Therapeutical Implications, Labex GR-Ex, Imagine Institute, Inserm, Paris Descartes - Sorbonne Paris Cité University, Paris, France
- Hematology unit care, Hemophilia Center, Necker Hospital, Paris, France
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
Arjomandnejad M, Dasgupta I, Flotte TR, Keeler AM. Immunogenicity of Recombinant Adeno-Associated Virus (AAV) Vectors for Gene Transfer. BioDrugs 2023; 37:311-329. [PMID: 36862289 PMCID: PMC9979149 DOI: 10.1007/s40259-023-00585-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 48.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2023]
Abstract
Recombinant adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) have emerged as promising gene delivery vehicles resulting in three US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and one European Medicines Agency (EMA)-approved AAV-based gene therapies. Despite being a leading platform for therapeutic gene transfer in several clinical trials, host immune responses against the AAV vector and transgene have hampered their widespread application. Multiple factors, including vector design, dose, and route of administration, contribute to the overall immunogenicity of AAVs. The immune responses against the AAV capsid and transgene involve an initial innate sensing. The innate immune response subsequently triggers an adaptive immune response to elicit a robust and specific response against the AAV vector. AAV gene therapy clinical trials and preclinical studies provide important information about the immune-mediated toxicities associated with AAV, yet studies suggest preclinical models fail to precisely predict the outcome of gene delivery in humans. This review discusses the contribution of the innate and adaptive immune response against AAVs, highlighting the challenges and potential strategies to mitigate these responses, thereby enhancing the therapeutic potential of AAV gene therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Motahareh Arjomandnejad
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, 386 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Ishani Dasgupta
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, 386 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Terence R Flotte
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, 386 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Allison M Keeler
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, 386 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA.
- NeuroNexus Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Sui H, Xu X, Su Y, Gong Z, Yao M, Liu X, Zhang T, Jiang Z, Bai T, Wang J, Zhang J, Xu C, Luo M. Gene therapy for cystic fibrosis: Challenges and prospects. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1015926. [PMID: 36304167 PMCID: PMC9592762 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1015926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a life-threatening autosomal-recessive disease caused by mutations in a single gene encoding cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR). CF effects multiple organs, and lung disease is the primary cause of mortality. The median age at death from CF is in the early forties. CF was one of the first diseases to be considered for gene therapy, and efforts focused on treating CF lung disease began shortly after the CFTR gene was identified in 1989. However, despite the quickly established proof-of-concept for CFTR gene transfer in vitro and in clinical trials in 1990s, to date, 36 CF gene therapy clinical trials involving ∼600 patients with CF have yet to achieve their desired outcomes. The long journey to pursue gene therapy as a cure for CF encountered more difficulties than originally anticipated, but immense progress has been made in the past decade in the developments of next generation airway transduction viral vectors and CF animal models that reproduced human CF disease phenotypes. In this review, we look back at the history for the lessons learned from previous clinical trials and summarize the recent advances in the research for CF gene therapy, including the emerging CRISPR-based gene editing strategies. We also discuss the airway transduction vectors, large animal CF models, the complexity of CF pathogenesis and heterogeneity of CFTR expression in airway epithelium, which are the major challenges to the implementation of a successful CF gene therapy, and highlight the future opportunities and prospects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hongshu Sui
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Clinical and Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Science, Jinan, Shandong, China
- *Correspondence: Hongshu Sui, ; Changlong Xu, ; Mingjiu Luo,
| | - Xinghua Xu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Clinical and Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Science, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yanping Su
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Clinical and Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Science, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Zhaoqing Gong
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Clinical and Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Science, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Minhua Yao
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Clinical and Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Science, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Xiaocui Liu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Clinical and Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Science, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Ting Zhang
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Clinical and Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Science, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Ziyao Jiang
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Clinical and Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Science, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Tianhao Bai
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and Prevention, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an, China
| | - Junzuo Wang
- The Affiliated Tai’an City Central Hospital of Qingdao University, Tai’an, Shandong, China
| | - Jingjun Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Tai’an, Shandong, China
| | - Changlong Xu
- The Reproductive Medical Center of Nanning Second People’s Hospital, Nanning, China
- National Center for International Research of Bio-targeting Theranostics, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Bio-targeting Theranostics, Collaborative Innovation Center for Targeting Tumor Diagnosis and Therapy, Guangxi Talent Highland of Bio-targeting Theranostics, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
- *Correspondence: Hongshu Sui, ; Changlong Xu, ; Mingjiu Luo,
| | - Mingjiu Luo
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and Prevention, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an, China
- *Correspondence: Hongshu Sui, ; Changlong Xu, ; Mingjiu Luo,
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Sutter SO, Lkharrazi A, Schraner EM, Michaelsen K, Meier AF, Marx J, Vogt B, Büning H, Fraefel C. Adeno-associated virus type 2 (AAV2) uncoating is a stepwise process and is linked to structural reorganization of the nucleolus. PLoS Pathog 2022; 18:e1010187. [PMID: 35816507 PMCID: PMC9302821 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1010187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Revised: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Nucleoli are membrane-less structures located within the nucleus and are known to be involved in many cellular functions, including stress response and cell cycle regulation. Besides, many viruses can employ the nucleolus or nucleolar proteins to promote different steps of their life cycle such as replication, transcription and assembly. While adeno-associated virus type 2 (AAV2) capsids have previously been reported to enter the host cell nucleus and accumulate in the nucleolus, both the role of the nucleolus in AAV2 infection, and the viral uncoating mechanism remain elusive. In all prior studies on AAV uncoating, viral capsids and viral genomes were not directly correlated on the single cell level, at least not in absence of a helper virus. To elucidate the properties of the nucleolus during AAV2 infection and to assess viral uncoating on a single cell level, we combined immunofluorescence analysis for detection of intact AAV2 capsids and capsid proteins with fluorescence in situ hybridization for detection of AAV2 genomes. The results of our experiments provide evidence that uncoating of AAV2 particles occurs in a stepwise process that is completed in the nucleolus and supported by alteration of the nucleolar structure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Anouk Lkharrazi
- Institute of Virology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | - Kevin Michaelsen
- Institute of Virology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | - Jennifer Marx
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Bernd Vogt
- Institute of Virology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Hildegard Büning
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Cornel Fraefel
- Institute of Virology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Tabebordbar M, Lagerborg KA, Stanton A, King EM, Ye S, Tellez L, Krunnfusz A, Tavakoli S, Widrick JJ, Messemer KA, Troiano EC, Moghadaszadeh B, Peacker BL, Leacock KA, Horwitz N, Beggs AH, Wagers AJ, Sabeti PC. Directed evolution of a family of AAV capsid variants enabling potent muscle-directed gene delivery across species. Cell 2021; 184:4919-4938.e22. [PMID: 34506722 PMCID: PMC9344975 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2021.08.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 201] [Impact Index Per Article: 67.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Revised: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Replacing or editing disease-causing mutations holds great promise for treating many human diseases. Yet, delivering therapeutic genetic modifiers to specific cells in vivo has been challenging, particularly in large, anatomically distributed tissues such as skeletal muscle. Here, we establish an in vivo strategy to evolve and stringently select capsid variants of adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) that enable potent delivery to desired tissues. Using this method, we identify a class of RGD motif-containing capsids that transduces muscle with superior efficiency and selectivity after intravenous injection in mice and non-human primates. We demonstrate substantially enhanced potency and therapeutic efficacy of these engineered vectors compared to naturally occurring AAV capsids in two mouse models of genetic muscle disease. The top capsid variants from our selection approach show conserved potency for delivery across a variety of inbred mouse strains, and in cynomolgus macaques and human primary myotubes, with transduction dependent on target cell expressed integrin heterodimers.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Amino Acid Sequence
- Animals
- Capsid/chemistry
- Capsid/metabolism
- Cells, Cultured
- Dependovirus/metabolism
- Directed Molecular Evolution
- Disease Models, Animal
- Gene Transfer Techniques
- HEK293 Cells
- Humans
- Integrins/metabolism
- Macaca fascicularis
- Mice, Inbred BALB C
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Muscle Fibers, Skeletal/metabolism
- Muscle, Skeletal/metabolism
- Muscular Dystrophy, Duchenne/pathology
- Muscular Dystrophy, Duchenne/therapy
- Myopathies, Structural, Congenital/pathology
- Myopathies, Structural, Congenital/therapy
- Protein Multimerization
- Protein Tyrosine Phosphatases, Non-Receptor/genetics
- Protein Tyrosine Phosphatases, Non-Receptor/metabolism
- Protein Tyrosine Phosphatases, Non-Receptor/therapeutic use
- Recombination, Genetic/genetics
- Species Specificity
- Transgenes
- Mice
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Kim A Lagerborg
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; Harvard Program in Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Alexandra Stanton
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; Harvard Program in Virology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Emily M King
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Simon Ye
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; Harvard-MIT Health Sciences and Technology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Liana Tellez
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | | | - Sahar Tavakoli
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA; Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA; Paul F. Glenn Center for the Biology of Aging, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Stem Cell Program and Division of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Jeffrey J Widrick
- Division of Genetics and Genomics, The Manton Center for Orphan Disease Research, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Kathleen A Messemer
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA; Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA; Paul F. Glenn Center for the Biology of Aging, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Emily C Troiano
- Division of Genetics and Genomics, The Manton Center for Orphan Disease Research, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Behzad Moghadaszadeh
- Division of Genetics and Genomics, The Manton Center for Orphan Disease Research, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Bryan L Peacker
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA; Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA; Paul F. Glenn Center for the Biology of Aging, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Krystynne A Leacock
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA; Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA; Paul F. Glenn Center for the Biology of Aging, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Naftali Horwitz
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA; Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA; Paul F. Glenn Center for the Biology of Aging, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Section on Islet Cell and Regenerative Biology, Joslin Diabetes Center, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Alan H Beggs
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; Division of Genetics and Genomics, The Manton Center for Orphan Disease Research, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Amy J Wagers
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA; Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA; Paul F. Glenn Center for the Biology of Aging, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Section on Islet Cell and Regenerative Biology, Joslin Diabetes Center, Boston, MA 02215, USA.
| | - Pardis C Sabeti
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology, FAS Center for Systems Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase, MD 20815, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Muhuri M, Maeda Y, Ma H, Ram S, Fitzgerald KA, Tai PW, Gao G. Overcoming innate immune barriers that impede AAV gene therapy vectors. J Clin Invest 2021; 131:143780. [PMID: 33393506 DOI: 10.1172/jci143780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The field of gene therapy has made considerable progress over the past several years. Adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors have emerged as promising and attractive tools for in vivo gene therapy. Despite the recent clinical successes achieved with recombinant AAVs (rAAVs) for therapeutics, host immune responses against the vector and transgene product have been observed in numerous preclinical and clinical studies. These outcomes have hampered the advancement of AAV gene therapies, preventing them from becoming fully viable and safe medicines. The human immune system is multidimensional and complex. Both the innate and adaptive arms of the immune system seem to play a concerted role in the response against rAAVs. While most efforts have been focused on the role of adaptive immunity and developing ways to overcome it, the innate immune system has also been found to have a critical function. Innate immunity not only mediates the initial response to the vector, but also primes the adaptive immune system to launch a more deleterious attack against the foreign vector. This Review highlights what is known about innate immune responses against rAAVs and discusses potential strategies to circumvent these pathways.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manish Muhuri
- Horae Gene Therapy Center.,Department of Microbiology and Physiological Systems.,VIDE Program
| | - Yukiko Maeda
- Horae Gene Therapy Center.,VIDE Program.,Department of Medicine
| | | | - Sanjay Ram
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology
| | | | - Phillip Wl Tai
- Horae Gene Therapy Center.,Department of Microbiology and Physiological Systems.,VIDE Program
| | - Guangping Gao
- Horae Gene Therapy Center.,Department of Microbiology and Physiological Systems.,Li Weibo Institute for Rare Diseases Research, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Cui S, Ganjawala TH, Abrams GW, Pan ZH. Effect of Proteasome Inhibitors on the AAV-Mediated Transduction Efficiency in Retinal Bipolar Cells. Curr Gene Ther 2021; 19:404-412. [PMID: 32072884 DOI: 10.2174/1566523220666200211111326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2019] [Revised: 01/29/2020] [Accepted: 01/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adeno-associated Virus (AAV) vectors are the most promising vehicles for therapeutic gene delivery to the retina. To develop a practical gene delivery tool, achieving high AAV transduction efficiency in specific cell types is often required. AAV-mediated targeted expression in retinal bipolar cells is needed in certain applications such as optogenetic therapy, however, the transduction efficiency driven by endogenous cell-specific promoters is usually low. Methods that can improve AAV transduction efficiency in bipolar cells need to be developed. OBJECTIVE The study aimed to examine the effect of proteasome inhibitors on AAV-mediated transduction efficiency in retinal bipolar cells. METHODS Quantitative analysis of fluorescent reporter protein expression was performed to assess the effect of two proteasome inhibitors, doxorubicin and MG132, on AAV-mediated transduction efficiency in retinal bipolar cells in mice. RESULTS Our results showed that doxorubicin can increase the AAV transduction efficiency in retinal bipolar cells in a dose-dependent manner. We also observed doxorubicin-mediated cytotoxicity in retinal neurons, but the cytotoxicity could be mitigated by the coapplication of dexrazoxane. Three months after the coapplication of doxorubicin (300 μM) and dexrazoxane, the AAV transduction efficiency in retinal bipolar cells increased by 33.8% and no cytotoxicity was observed in all the layers of the retina. CONCLUSION Doxorubicin could enhance the AAV transduction efficiency in retinal bipolar cells in vivo. The potential long-term cytotoxicity caused by doxorubicin to retinal neurons could be partially mitigated by dexrazoxane. The coapplication of doxorubicin and dexrazoxane may serve as a potential adjuvant regimen for improving AAV transduction efficiency in retinal bipolar cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shengjie Cui
- Department of Ophthalmology, Visual and Anatomical Sciences, Wayne State University, School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, 48201, United States
| | - Tushar H Ganjawala
- Department of Ophthalmology, Visual and Anatomical Sciences, Wayne State University, School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, 48201, United States
| | - Gary W Abrams
- Department of Ophthalmology, Visual and Anatomical Sciences, Wayne State University, School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, 48201, United States
| | - Zhuo-Hua Pan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Visual and Anatomical Sciences, Wayne State University, School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, 48201, United States
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Wang J, Zhang L. Retrograde Axonal Transport Property of Adeno-Associated Virus and Its Possible Application in Future. Microbes Infect 2021; 23:104829. [PMID: 33878458 DOI: 10.1016/j.micinf.2021.104829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Revised: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Gene therapy has become a treatment method for many diseases. Adeno-associated virus (AAV) is one of the most common virus vectors, is also widely used in the gene therapy field. During the past 2 decades, the retrograde axonal transportability of AAV has been discovered and utilized. Many studies have worked on the retrograde axonal transportability of AAV, and more and more people are interested in this field. This review described the current application, influence factors, and mechanism of retrograde axonal transportability of AAV and predicted its potential use in disease treatment in near future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Third Central Hospital of Tianjin, 83 Jintang Road, Hedong District, Tianjin, 300170, China
| | - Liqin Zhang
- Department of Otolaryngology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Dongcheng Qu, Beijing, 100730, China.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Pavlou M, Schön C, Occelli LM, Rossi A, Meumann N, Boyd RF, Bartoe JT, Siedlecki J, Gerhardt MJ, Babutzka S, Bogedein J, Wagner JE, Priglinger SG, Biel M, Petersen‐Jones SM, Büning H, Michalakis S. Novel AAV capsids for intravitreal gene therapy of photoreceptor disorders. EMBO Mol Med 2021; 13:e13392. [PMID: 33616280 PMCID: PMC8033523 DOI: 10.15252/emmm.202013392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Revised: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Gene therapy using recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) vectors to treat blinding retinal dystrophies has become clinical reality. Therapeutically impactful targeting of photoreceptors still relies on subretinal vector delivery, which detaches the retina and harbours substantial risks of collateral damage, often without achieving widespread photoreceptor transduction. Herein, we report the development of novel engineered rAAV vectors that enable efficient targeting of photoreceptors via less invasive intravitreal administration. A unique in vivo selection procedure was performed, where an AAV2-based peptide-display library was intravenously administered in mice, followed by isolation of vector DNA from target cells after only 24 h. This stringent selection yielded novel vectors, termed AAV2.GL and AAV2.NN, which mediate widespread and high-level retinal transduction after intravitreal injection in mice, dogs and non-human primates. Importantly, both vectors efficiently transduce photoreceptors in human retinal explant cultures. As proof-of-concept, intravitreal Cnga3 delivery using AAV2.GL lead to cone-specific expression of Cnga3 protein and rescued photopic cone responses in the Cnga3-/- mouse model of achromatopsia. These novel rAAV vectors expand the clinical applicability of gene therapy for blinding human retinal dystrophies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marina Pavlou
- Department of OphthalmologyLudwig‐Maximilians‐UniversityMunichGermany
- Centre for Integrated Protein Science Munich (CIPSM) at the Department of PharmacyLudwig‐Maximilians‐UniversityMunichGermany
| | - Christian Schön
- Centre for Integrated Protein Science Munich (CIPSM) at the Department of PharmacyLudwig‐Maximilians‐UniversityMunichGermany
| | - Laurence M Occelli
- Department of Small Animal Clinical SciencesMichigan State UniversityEast LansingMIUSA
| | - Axel Rossi
- Laboratory for Infection Biology and Gene TransferInstitute of Experimental HaematologyHannover Medical SchoolHannoverGermany
| | - Nadja Meumann
- Laboratory for Infection Biology and Gene TransferInstitute of Experimental HaematologyHannover Medical SchoolHannoverGermany
- REBIRTH Research Centre for Translational Regenerative MedicineHannover Medical SchoolHannoverGermany
| | - Ryan F Boyd
- Ophthalmology ServicesCharles River LaboratoriesMattawanMIUSA
| | - Joshua T Bartoe
- Ophthalmology ServicesCharles River LaboratoriesMattawanMIUSA
| | - Jakob Siedlecki
- Department of OphthalmologyLudwig‐Maximilians‐UniversityMunichGermany
| | | | - Sabrina Babutzka
- Department of OphthalmologyLudwig‐Maximilians‐UniversityMunichGermany
- Centre for Integrated Protein Science Munich (CIPSM) at the Department of PharmacyLudwig‐Maximilians‐UniversityMunichGermany
| | - Jacqueline Bogedein
- Department of OphthalmologyLudwig‐Maximilians‐UniversityMunichGermany
- Centre for Integrated Protein Science Munich (CIPSM) at the Department of PharmacyLudwig‐Maximilians‐UniversityMunichGermany
| | - Johanna E Wagner
- Centre for Integrated Protein Science Munich (CIPSM) at the Department of PharmacyLudwig‐Maximilians‐UniversityMunichGermany
| | | | - Martin Biel
- Centre for Integrated Protein Science Munich (CIPSM) at the Department of PharmacyLudwig‐Maximilians‐UniversityMunichGermany
| | | | - Hildegard Büning
- Laboratory for Infection Biology and Gene TransferInstitute of Experimental HaematologyHannover Medical SchoolHannoverGermany
- REBIRTH Research Centre for Translational Regenerative MedicineHannover Medical SchoolHannoverGermany
| | - Stylianos Michalakis
- Department of OphthalmologyLudwig‐Maximilians‐UniversityMunichGermany
- Centre for Integrated Protein Science Munich (CIPSM) at the Department of PharmacyLudwig‐Maximilians‐UniversityMunichGermany
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Tang Y, Yan Z, Lin S, Huntemann ED, Feng Z, Park SY, Sun X, Yuen E, Engelhardt JF. Repeat Dosing of AAV2.5T to Ferret Lungs Elicits an Antibody Response That Diminishes Transduction in an Age-Dependent Manner. MOLECULAR THERAPY-METHODS & CLINICAL DEVELOPMENT 2020; 19:186-200. [PMID: 33209961 PMCID: PMC7648090 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2020.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2020] [Accepted: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Readministration of recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) may be necessary to treat cystic fibrosis (CF) lung disease using gene therapy. However, little is known about rAAV-mediated immune responses in the lung. Here, we demonstrate the suitability of the ferret for testing AAV2.5T-mediated CFTR delivery to the lung and characterization of neutralizing-antibody (NAb) responses. AAV2.5T-SP183-hCFTRΔR efficiently transduced both human and ferret airway epithelial cultures and complemented CFTR Cl– currents in CF airway cultures. Delivery of AAV2.5T-hCFTRΔR to neonatal and juvenile ferret lungs produced hCFTR mRNA at 200%–300% greater levels than endogenous fCFTR. Single-dose (AAV2.5T-SP183-gLuc) or repeat dosing (AAV2.5T-SP183-fCFTRΔR followed by AAV2.5T-SP183-gLuc) of AAV2.5T was performed in neonatal and juvenile ferrets. Repeat dosing significantly reduced transgene expression (11-fold) and increased bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) NAbs only in juvenile, but not neonatal, ferrets, despite near-equivalent plasma NAb responses in both age groups. Notably, both age groups demonstrated a reduction in BALF anti-capsid binding immunoglobulin (Ig) G, IgM, and IgA antibodies after repeat dosing. Unique to juvenile ferrets was a suppression of plasma anti-capsid-binding IgM after the second vector administration. Thus, age-dependent immune system maturation and isotype switching may affect the development of high-affinity lung NAbs after repeat dosing of AAV2.5T and may provide a path to blunt AAV-neutralizing responses in the lung.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yinghua Tang
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, University of Iowa, Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Ziying Yan
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, University of Iowa, Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Shen Lin
- Spirovant Science Inc., Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Eric D Huntemann
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, University of Iowa, Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Zehua Feng
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, University of Iowa, Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Soo-Yeun Park
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, University of Iowa, Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Xingshen Sun
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, University of Iowa, Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Eric Yuen
- Spirovant Science Inc., Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - John F Engelhardt
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, University of Iowa, Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Nishizono H, Yasuda R, Laviv T. Methodologies and Challenges for CRISPR/Cas9 Mediated Genome Editing of the Mammalian Brain. Front Genome Ed 2020; 2:602970. [PMID: 34713226 PMCID: PMC8525404 DOI: 10.3389/fgeed.2020.602970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurons and glia are highly polarized cells with extensive subcellular structures extending over large distances from their cell bodies. Previous research has revealed elaborate protein signaling complexes localized within intracellular compartments. Thus, exploring the function and the localization of endogenous proteins is vital to understanding the precise molecular mechanisms underlying the synapse, cellular, and circuit function. Recent advances in CRISPR/Cas9-based genome editing techniques have allowed researchers to rapidly develop transgenic animal models and perform single-cell level genome editing in the mammalian brain. Here, we introduce and comprehensively review the latest techniques for genome-editing in whole animals using fertilized eggs and methods for gene editing in specific neuronal populations in the adult or developing mammalian brain. Finally, we describe the advantages and disadvantages of each technique, as well as the challenges that lie ahead to advance the generation of methodologies for genome editing in the brain using the current CRISPR/Cas9 system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hirofumi Nishizono
- Department of Neuronal Signal Transduction, Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience, Jupiter, FL, United States
| | - Ryohei Yasuda
- Department of Neuronal Signal Transduction, Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience, Jupiter, FL, United States
| | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Zhao J, Yue Y, Patel A, Wasala L, Karp JF, Zhang K, Duan D, Lai Y. High-Resolution Histological Landscape of AAV DNA Distribution in Cellular Compartments and Tissues following Local and Systemic Injection. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2020; 18:856-868. [PMID: 32953935 PMCID: PMC7479330 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2020.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV) is one of the most important gene delivery vehicles for in vivo gene therapy. Intramuscular (i.m.) and intravascular (i.v.) injection are commonly used for AAV gene transfer. Unfortunately, the fate of AAV vectors following administration remains unclear at the histological level. Taking advantage of RNAscope, a recently developed in situ hybridization technique that can reveal high-resolution viral DNA localization information, in this study, we evaluated body-wide distribution of an AAV9 vector in the context of the cell and tissue microenvironments. We observed distinctive kinetics of cell and nuclear entry of the AAV DNA in striated muscle and liver following i.m. and i.v. injection. We also found characteristic distribution patterns of the AAV DNA in various histological structures in internal organs, including gonads and lymph nodes, following i.v. injection. Finally, we showed significantly body-wide spreading of the AAV DNA following i.m. injection. These results add a new dimension to our understanding of AAV transduction biology and provide a basis for assessing the full impact of AAV gene therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Junling Zhao
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
| | - Yongping Yue
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
| | - Aman Patel
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
- School of Medicine, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO 63104, USA
| | - Lakmini Wasala
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
| | - Jacob F. Karp
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
| | - Keqing Zhang
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
| | - Dongsheng Duan
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
| | - Yi Lai
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Orefice NS. Development of New Strategies Using Extracellular Vesicles Loaded with Exogenous Nucleic Acid. Pharmaceutics 2020; 12:E705. [PMID: 32722622 PMCID: PMC7464422 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics12080705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Revised: 07/19/2020] [Accepted: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Gene therapy is a therapeutic strategy of delivering foreign genetic material (encoding for an important protein) into a patient's target cell to replace a defective gene. Nucleic acids are embedded within the adeno-associated virus (AAVs) vectors; however, preexisting immunity to AAVs remains a significant concern that impairs their clinical application. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) hold great potential for therapeutic applications as vectors of nucleic acids due to their endogenous intercellular communication functions through their cargo delivery, including lipids and proteins. So far, small RNAs (siRNA and micro (mi)RNA) have been mainly loaded into EVs to treat several diseases, but the potential use of EVs to load and deliver exogenous plasmid DNA has not been thoroughly described. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the principal methodologies currently employed to load foreign genetic material into EVs, highlighting the need to find the most effective strategies for their successful clinical translations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Salvatore Orefice
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA; or ; Tel.: +1-608-262-21-89
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Krotova K, Aslanidi G. Modifiers of Adeno-Associated Virus-Mediated Gene Expression in Implication for Serotype-Universal Neutralizing Antibody Assay. Hum Gene Ther 2020; 31:1124-1131. [PMID: 32495655 PMCID: PMC7588322 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2020.074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV)-based gene therapy is undergoing major expansion into clinical practice, with two treatments currently being granted Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval. However, the presence of pre-existing neutralizing antibodies (NAB) is one of the significant hurdles for the clinical application of AAV vectors that significantly limits the patient population, which benefits from the treatment. A reliable diagnostic to evaluate the patient's seropositivity is required to ensure the effectiveness of the AAV-mediated therapeutic. Here, we describe a simple method for the determination of AAV NAB activity based on our finding that Compound C makes HEK293 cell highly permissive for infection by 10 commonly used AAV serotypes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karina Krotova
- Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, Austin, Minnesota, USA
| | - George Aslanidi
- Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, Austin, Minnesota, USA
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Hsu HL, Brown A, Loveland AB, Lotun A, Xu M, Luo L, Xu G, Li J, Ren L, Su Q, Gessler DJ, Wei Y, Tai PWL, Korostelev AA, Gao G. Structural characterization of a novel human adeno-associated virus capsid with neurotropic properties. Nat Commun 2020; 11:3279. [PMID: 32606306 PMCID: PMC7327033 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-17047-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2019] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Recombinant adeno-associated viruses (rAAVs) are currently considered the safest and most reliable gene delivery vehicles for human gene therapy. Three serotype capsids, AAV1, AAV2, and AAV9, have been approved for commercial use in patients, but they may not be suitable for all therapeutic contexts. Here, we describe a novel capsid identified in a human clinical sample by high-throughput, long-read sequencing. The capsid, which we have named AAVv66, shares high sequence similarity with AAV2. We demonstrate that compared to AAV2, AAVv66 exhibits enhanced production yields, virion stability, and CNS transduction. Unique structural properties of AAVv66 visualized by cryo-EM at 2.5-Å resolution, suggest that critical residues at the three-fold protrusion and at the interface of the five-fold axis of symmetry likely contribute to the beneficial characteristics of AAVv66. Our findings underscore the potential of AAVv66 as a gene therapy vector.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hung-Lun Hsu
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Physiological Systems, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Alexander Brown
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Physiological Systems, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Anna B Loveland
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Anoushka Lotun
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Meiyu Xu
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Physiological Systems, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Li Luo
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P. R., China
| | - Guangchao Xu
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P. R., China
| | - Jia Li
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Lingzhi Ren
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Qin Su
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
- Viral Vector Core, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Dominic J Gessler
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Physiological Systems, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Yuquan Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P. R., China
| | - Phillip W L Tai
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA.
- Department of Microbiology and Physiological Systems, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA.
| | - Andrei A Korostelev
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA.
| | - Guangping Gao
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA.
- Department of Microbiology and Physiological Systems, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA.
- Li Weibo Institute for Rare Diseases Research, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Adeno-Associated Virus (AAV) Capsid Stability and Liposome Remodeling During Endo/Lysosomal pH Trafficking. Viruses 2020; 12:v12060668. [PMID: 32575696 PMCID: PMC7354436 DOI: 10.3390/v12060668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2020] [Revised: 06/13/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) are small, non-pathogenic ssDNA viruses being used as therapeutic gene delivery vectors for the treatment of a variety of monogenic diseases. An obstacle to successful gene delivery is inefficient capsid trafficking through the endo/lysosomal pathway. This study aimed to characterize the AAV capsid stability and dynamics associated with this process for a select number of AAV serotypes, AAV1, AAV2, AAV5, and AAV8, at pHs representative of the early and late endosome, and the lysosome (6.0, 5.5, and 4.0, respectively). All AAV serotypes displayed thermal melt temperatures that varied with pH. The stability of AAV1, AAV2, and AAV8 increased in response to acidic conditions and then decreased at pH 4.0. In contrast, AAV5 demonstrated a consistent decrease in thermostability in response to acidification. Negative-stain EM visualization of liposomes in the presence of capsids at pH 5.5 or when heat shocked showed induced remodeling consistent with the externalization of the PLA2 domain of VP1u. These observations provide clues to the AAV capsid dynamics that facilitate successful infection. Finally, transduction assays revealed a pH and temperature dependence with low acidity and temperatures > 4 °C as detrimental factors.
Collapse
|
22
|
Maurer AC, Weitzman MD. Adeno-Associated Virus Genome Interactions Important for Vector Production and Transduction. Hum Gene Ther 2020; 31:499-511. [PMID: 32303138 PMCID: PMC7232694 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2020.069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2020] [Accepted: 04/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Recombinant adeno-associated virus has emerged as one of the most promising gene therapy delivery vectors. Development of these vectors took advantage of key features of the wild-type adeno-associated virus (AAV), enabled by basic studies of the underlying biology and requirements for transcription, replication, and packaging of the viral genome. Each step in generating and utilizing viral vectors involves numerous molecular interactions that together determine the efficiency of vector production and gene delivery. Once delivered into the cell, interactions with host proteins will determine the fate of the viral genome, and these will impact the intended goal of gene delivery. Here, we provide an overview of known interactions of the AAV genome with viral and cellular proteins involved in its amplification, packaging, and expression. Further appreciation of how the AAV genome interacts with host factors will enhance how this simple virus can be harnessed for an array of vector purposes that benefit human health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna C. Maurer
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Matthew D. Weitzman
- Division of Protective Immunity, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Division of Cancer Pathobiology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Tang Y, Yan Z, Engelhardt JF. Viral Vectors, Animal Models, and Cellular Targets for Gene Therapy of Cystic Fibrosis Lung Disease. Hum Gene Ther 2020; 31:524-537. [PMID: 32138545 PMCID: PMC7232698 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2020.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2020] [Accepted: 03/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
After more than two decades since clinical trials tested the first use of recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) to treat cystic fibrosis (CF) lung disease, gene therapy for this disorder has undergone a tremendous resurgence. Fueling this enthusiasm has been an enhanced understanding of rAAV transduction biology and cellular processes that limit transduction of airway epithelia, the development of new rAAV serotypes and other vector systems with high-level tropism for airway epithelial cells, an improved understanding of CF lung pathogenesis and the cellular targets for gene therapy, and the development of new animal models that reproduce the human CF disease phenotype. These advances have created a preclinical path for both assessing the efficacy of gene therapies in the CF lung and interrogating the target cell types in the lung required for complementation of the CF disease state. Lessons learned from early gene therapy attempts with rAAV in the CF lung have guided thinking for the testing of next-generation vector systems. Although unknown questions still remain regarding the cellular targets in the lung that are required or sufficient to complement CF lung disease, the field is now well positioned to tackle these challenges. This review will highlight the role that next-generation CF animal models are playing in the preclinical development of gene therapies for CF lung disease and the knowledge gaps in disease pathophysiology that these models are attempting to fill.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yinghua Tang
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Ziying Yan
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - John F. Engelhardt
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Gorovits B, Fiscella M, Havert M, Koren E, Long B, Milton M, Purushothama S. Recommendations for the Development of Cell-Based Anti-Viral Vector Neutralizing Antibody Assays. AAPS JOURNAL 2020; 22:24. [DOI: 10.1208/s12248-019-0403-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2019] [Accepted: 12/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
|
25
|
Nidetz NF, McGee MC, Tse LV, Li C, Cong L, Li Y, Huang W. Adeno-associated viral vector-mediated immune responses: Understanding barriers to gene delivery. Pharmacol Ther 2019; 207:107453. [PMID: 31836454 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2019.107453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Adeno-associated viral (AAV) vectors have emerged as the leading gene delivery platform for gene therapy and vaccination. Three AAV-based gene therapy drugs, Glybera, LUXTURNA, and ZOLGENSMA were approved between 2012 and 2019 by the European Medicines Agency and the United States Food and Drug Administration as treatments for genetic diseases hereditary lipoprotein lipase deficiency (LPLD), inherited retinal disease (IRD), and spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), respectively. Despite these therapeutic successes, clinical trials have demonstrated that host anti-viral immune responses can prevent the long-term gene expression of AAV vector-encoded genes. Therefore, it is critical that we understand the complex relationship between AAV vectors and the host immune response. This knowledge could allow for the rational design of optimized gene transfer vectors capable of either subverting host immune responses in the context of gene therapy applications, or stimulating desirable immune responses that generate protective immunity in vaccine applications to AAV vector-encoded antigens. This review provides an overview of our current understanding of the AAV-induced immune response and discusses potential strategies by which these responses can be manipulated to improve AAV vector-mediated gene transfer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natalie F Nidetz
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA
| | - Michael C McGee
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA
| | - Longping V Tse
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Chengwen Li
- Gene Therapy Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Le Cong
- Department of Pathology and Department of Genetics, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Yunxing Li
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Weishan Huang
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Chimeric Capsid Proteins Impact Transduction Efficiency of Haploid Adeno-Associated Virus Vectors. Viruses 2019; 11:v11121138. [PMID: 31835440 PMCID: PMC6950324 DOI: 10.3390/v11121138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2019] [Revised: 11/27/2019] [Accepted: 12/06/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Our previous studies have demonstrated that haploid AAV vectors made from capsids of two different serotypes induced high transduction and prevented serotype-specific antibody binding. In this study, we explored the transduction efficiency of several haploid viruses, which were made from the VP1/VP2 of one serotype and VP3 of another compatible serotype. After systemic injection of 2 × 1010 vg of AAV vectors into mice, the haploid AAV vectors, composed of VP1/VP2 from serotypes 8 or 9, and VP3 from AAV2, displayed a two to seven-fold increase in liver transduction compared with those of parental AAV2 vectors. Furthermore, a chimeric AAV2/8 VP1/VP2 with N-terminus of VP1/VP2 from AAV2 and C-terminus (VP3 domain) from AAV8 was constructed, and produced the haploid vector 28m-2VP3 with AAV2 VP3. The haploid 28m-2VP3 vector showed a five-fold higher transduction than that of the vectors composed solely of AAV2 VPs. Remarkably, the 28m-2VP3 vectors also induced a significant increase in transgene expression compared to the vectors composed of AAV8 VP1/VP2 with AAV2 VP3. The results suggest that the difference in the VP1/VP2 N-terminal region between AAV2 and AAV8 may allow better "communication" between the VP1/VP2 N-terminus of AAV2 with its cognate VP3. Similarly, the haploid vectors, VP1/VP2 from serotypes 8 or 9 and VP3 from AAV3, achieved higher transductions in multiple tissue types beyond typical tropism compared with those of AAV3 vectors. Consistently, higher vector genome copy numbers were detected in these tissues, indicating that an incorporation of non-cognate VP1/VP2 might influence the cellular tropism of the haploid vectors. However, there was no significant difference or even decreased transductions when compared with those of parental AAV8 or AAV9 vectors. In summary, these studies provide insight into current development strategies of AAV vectors that can increase AAV transduction across multiple tissues.
Collapse
|
27
|
Haggerty DL, Grecco GG, Reeves KC, Atwood B. Adeno-Associated Viral Vectors in Neuroscience Research. MOLECULAR THERAPY-METHODS & CLINICAL DEVELOPMENT 2019; 17:69-82. [PMID: 31890742 PMCID: PMC6931098 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2019.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Adeno-associated viral vectors (AAVs) are increasingly useful preclinical tools in neuroscience research studies for interrogating cellular and neurocircuit functions and mapping brain connectivity. Clinically, AAVs are showing increasing promise as viable candidates for treating multiple neurological diseases. Here, we briefly review the utility of AAVs in mapping neurocircuits, manipulating neuronal function and gene expression, and activity labeling in preclinical research studies as well as AAV-based gene therapies for diseases of the nervous system. This review highlights the vast potential that AAVs have for transformative research and therapeutics in the neurosciences.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David L. Haggerty
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Gregory G. Grecco
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
- Medical Scientist Training Program, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Kaitlin C. Reeves
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Brady Atwood
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
- Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
- Corresponding author: Brady Atwood, PhD, Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Indiana University School of Medicine, 320 West 15th Street, NB-400C, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Bergbower EAS, Sabirzhanova I, Boinot C, Guggino WB, Cebotaru L. Restoration of F508-del Function by Transcomplementation: The Partners Meet in the Endoplasmic Reticulum. Cell Physiol Biochem 2019; 52:1267-1279. [PMID: 31026390 DOI: 10.33594/000000089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2018] [Accepted: 04/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Because of the small size of adeno-associated virus, AAV, the cystic fibrosis conductance regulator, CFTR, cDNA is too large to fit within AAV and must be truncated. We report here on two truncated versions of CFTR, which, when inserted into AAV1 and used to infect airway cells, rescue F508-del CFTR via transcomplementation. The purpose of this study is to shed light on where in the cell transcomplementation occurs and how it results in close association between the endogenous F508-del and truncated CFTR. METHODS We treated CF airway cells (CFBE41o-) with AAV2/1 (AAV2 inverted terminal repeats/AAV1 capsid) containing truncated forms of CFTR, ∆264 and ∆27-264 CFTR, who can restore the function of F508-del by transcomplementation. We addressed the aims of the study using a combination of confocal microscopy and short circuit currents measurements. For the latter, CF bronchial epithelial cells (CFBE) were grown on permeable supports. RESULTS We show that both F508del and the truncation mutants colocalize in the ER and that both the rescued F508-del and the transcomplementing mutants reach the plasma membrane together. There was significant fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) between F508-del and the transcomplementing mutants within the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), suggesting that transcomplementation occurs through a bimolecular interaction. We found that transcomplementation could increase the Isc in CFBE41o- cells stably expressing additional wt-CFTR or F508-del and in parental CFBE41o- cells expressing endogenous levels of F508-del. CONCLUSION We conclude that the functional rescue of F508-del by transcomplementation occurs via a bimolecular interaction that most likely begins in the ER and continues at the plasma membrane. These results come at an opportune time for developing a gene therapy for CF and offer new treatment options for a wide range of CF patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Inna Sabirzhanova
- Departments of Medicine and Physiology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, USA
| | - Clément Boinot
- Departments of Medicine and Physiology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, USA
| | - William B Guggino
- Departments of Medicine and Physiology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, USA
| | - Liudmila Cebotaru
- Departments of Medicine and Physiology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, USA,
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Stanimirovic DB, Sandhu JK, Costain WJ. Emerging Technologies for Delivery of Biotherapeutics and Gene Therapy Across the Blood-Brain Barrier. BioDrugs 2019; 32:547-559. [PMID: 30306341 PMCID: PMC6290705 DOI: 10.1007/s40259-018-0309-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Antibody, immuno- and gene therapies developed for neurological indications face a delivery challenge posed by various anatomical and physiological barriers within the central nervous system (CNS); most notably, the blood–brain barrier (BBB). Emerging delivery technologies for biotherapeutics have focused on trans-cellular pathways across the BBB utilizing receptor-mediated transcytosis (RMT). ‘Traditionally’ targeted RMT receptors, transferrin receptor (TfR) and insulin receptor (IR), are ubiquitously expressed and pose numerous translational challenges during development, including species differences and safety risks. Recent advances in antibody engineering technologies and discoveries of RMT targets and BBB-crossing antibodies that are more BBB-selective have combined to create a new preclinical pipeline of BBB-crossing biotherapeutics with improved efficacy and safety. Novel BBB-selective RMT targets and carrier antibodies have exposed additional opportunities for re-targeting gene delivery vectors or nanocarriers for more efficient brain delivery. Emergence and refinement of core technologies of genetic engineering and editing as well as biomanufacturing of viral vectors and cell-derived products have de-risked the path to the development of systemic gene therapy approaches for the CNS. In particular, brain-tropic viral vectors and extracellular vesicles have recently expanded the repertoire of brain delivery strategies for biotherapeutics. Whereas protein biotherapeutics and bispecific antibodies enabled for BBB transcytosis are rapidly heading towards clinical trials, systemic gene therapy approaches for CNS will likely remain in research phase for the foreseeable future. The promise and limitations of these emerging cross-BBB delivery technologies are further discussed in this article.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Danica B Stanimirovic
- Human Health Therapeutics Research Centre, Translational Bioscience, National Research Council Canada, 1200 Montreal Road, Ottawa, ON, Canada.
| | - Jagdeep K Sandhu
- Human Health Therapeutics Research Centre, Translational Bioscience, National Research Council Canada, 1200 Montreal Road, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Will J Costain
- Human Health Therapeutics Research Centre, Translational Bioscience, National Research Council Canada, 1200 Montreal Road, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Lee SH, Yang JY, Madrakhimov S, Park HY, Park K, Park TK. Adeno-Associated Viral Vector 2 and 9 Transduction Is Enhanced in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Mouse Retina. MOLECULAR THERAPY-METHODS & CLINICAL DEVELOPMENT 2018; 13:55-66. [PMID: 30666309 PMCID: PMC6330514 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2018.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2018] [Accepted: 11/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) are currently the most popular vector platform technology for ocular gene therapy. While transduction efficiency and tropism of intravitreally administered AAV has been fairly well established in various retinal conditions, its transduction pattern in diabetic retinas has not previously been characterized. Here, we describe the transduction efficiencies of four different AAV serotypes, AAV2, 5, 8, and 9, in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic mouse retinas after intravitreal injections, which differed according to the duration of diabetic induction. STZ was intraperitoneally injected into C57/B6 diabetic mice subjected to unilateral intravitreal injection of AAV2, AAV5, AAV8, and AAV9 packaged with EGFP. Significantly enhanced AAV2 and AAV9 transduction was observed in 2-month-old diabetic mouse retinas compared to the 2-week-old diabetic mouse retinas and nondiabetic, vector uninjected or injected retinas. Intravitreal injection of AAV5 or AAV8 serotype in 2-month- and 2-week-old diabetic mouse retinas did not show any significant vector transduction enhancement compared to the nondiabetic control retinas. The tropism of AAV2 and AAV9 in diabetic mouse retinas differed. AAV2 was transduced into various retinal cells, including Müller cells, microglia, retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), bipolar cells, horizontal cells, and amacrine cells, whereas AAV9 was effectively transduced only into RGC and horizontal cells. The expression levels of receptors and co-receptors for AAV2 and AAV9 were significantly increased in 2-month-old diabetic mouse retinas. The results of our study demonstrated that AAV2 and AAV9 may be the vector of choice in treating diabetic retinopathy (DR) with gene therapy, and DR-related retinal changes may improve AAV vector transduction efficiency.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Si Hyung Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, Soonchunhyang University, Cheonan 31151, Republic of Korea.,Department of Ophthalmology, Soonchunhyang University Hospital Bucheon, Bucheon 14584, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Young Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Soonchunhyang University Hospital Bucheon, Bucheon 14584, Republic of Korea.,Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Soonchunhyang University, Asan 31538, Republic of Korea
| | - Sanjar Madrakhimov
- Department of Ophthalmology, Soonchunhyang University Hospital Bucheon, Bucheon 14584, Republic of Korea.,Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Soonchunhyang University, Asan 31538, Republic of Korea
| | - Ha Yan Park
- Department of Ophthalmology, Soonchunhyang University Hospital Bucheon, Bucheon 14584, Republic of Korea
| | - Keerang Park
- Department of Biopharmacy, Chungbuk Health & Science University, Cheongju, Chungbuk 28150, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae Kwann Park
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, Soonchunhyang University, Cheonan 31151, Republic of Korea.,Department of Ophthalmology, Soonchunhyang University Hospital Bucheon, Bucheon 14584, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Witte R, Andriasyan V, Georgi F, Yakimovich A, Greber UF. Concepts in Light Microscopy of Viruses. Viruses 2018; 10:E202. [PMID: 29670029 PMCID: PMC5923496 DOI: 10.3390/v10040202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2018] [Revised: 04/12/2018] [Accepted: 04/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Viruses threaten humans, livestock, and plants, and are difficult to combat. Imaging of viruses by light microscopy is key to uncover the nature of known and emerging viruses in the quest for finding new ways to treat viral disease and deepening the understanding of virus–host interactions. Here, we provide an overview of recent technology for imaging cells and viruses by light microscopy, in particular fluorescence microscopy in static and live-cell modes. The review lays out guidelines for how novel fluorescent chemical probes and proteins can be used in light microscopy to illuminate cells, and how they can be used to study virus infections. We discuss advantages and opportunities of confocal and multi-photon microscopy, selective plane illumination microscopy, and super-resolution microscopy. We emphasize the prevalent concepts in image processing and data analyses, and provide an outlook into label-free digital holographic microscopy for virus research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert Witte
- Department of Molecular Life Sciences, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 190, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Vardan Andriasyan
- Department of Molecular Life Sciences, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 190, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Fanny Georgi
- Department of Molecular Life Sciences, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 190, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Artur Yakimovich
- MRC Laboratory for Molecular Cell Biology, University College London, Gower St., London WC1E 6BT, UK.
| | - Urs F Greber
- Department of Molecular Life Sciences, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 190, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Brown N, Song L, Kollu NR, Hirsch ML. Adeno-Associated Virus Vectors and Stem Cells: Friends or Foes? Hum Gene Ther 2018; 28:450-463. [PMID: 28490211 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2017.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The infusion of healthy stem cells into a patient-termed "stem-cell therapy"-has shown great promise for the treatment of genetic and non-genetic diseases, including mucopolysaccharidosis type 1, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, numerous immunodeficiency disorders, and aplastic anemia. Stem cells for cell therapy can be collected from the patient (autologous) or collected from another "healthy" individual (allogeneic). The use of allogenic stem cells is accompanied with the potentially fatal risk that the transplanted donor T cells will reject the patient's cells-a process termed "graft-versus-host disease." Therefore, the use of autologous stem cells is preferred, at least from the immunological perspective. However, an obvious drawback is that inherently as "self," they contain the disease mutation. As such, autologous cells for use in cell therapies often require genetic "correction" (i.e., gene addition or editing) prior to cell infusion and therefore the requirement for some form of nucleic acid delivery, which sets the stage for the AAV controversy discussed herein. Despite being the most clinically applied gene delivery context to date, unlike other more concerning integrating and non-integrating vectors such as retroviruses and adenovirus, those based on adeno-associated virus (AAV) have not been employed in the clinic. Furthermore, published data regarding AAV vector transduction of stem cells are inconsistent in regards to vector transduction efficiency, while the pendulum swings far in the other direction with demonstrations of AAV vector-induced toxicity in undifferentiated cells. The variation present in the literature examining the transduction efficiency of AAV vectors in stem cells may be due to numerous factors, including inconsistencies in stem-cell collection, cell culture, vector preparation, and/or transduction conditions. This review summarizes the controversy surrounding AAV vector transduction of stem cells, hopefully setting the stage for future elucidation and eventual therapeutic applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nolan Brown
- 1 Gene Therapy Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill , North Carolina.,2 Department of Ophthalmology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill , North Carolina
| | - Liujiang Song
- 1 Gene Therapy Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill , North Carolina.,2 Department of Ophthalmology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill , North Carolina
| | - Nageswara R Kollu
- 1 Gene Therapy Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill , North Carolina.,2 Department of Ophthalmology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill , North Carolina
| | - Matthew L Hirsch
- 1 Gene Therapy Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill , North Carolina.,2 Department of Ophthalmology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill , North Carolina
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Mingozzi F, High KA. Overcoming the Host Immune Response to Adeno-Associated Virus Gene Delivery Vectors: The Race Between Clearance, Tolerance, Neutralization, and Escape. Annu Rev Virol 2017; 4:511-534. [PMID: 28961410 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-virology-101416-041936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 136] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Immune responses in gene therapy with adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors have been the object of almost two decades of study. Although preclinical models helped to define and predict certain aspects of interactions between the vector and the host immune system, most of our current knowledge has come from clinical trials. These studies have allowed development of effective interventions for modulating immunotoxicities associated with vector administration, resulting in therapeutic advances. However, the road to full understanding and effective modulation of immune responses in gene therapy is still long; the determinants of the balance between tolerance and immunogenicity in AAV vector-mediated gene transfer are not fully understood, and effective solutions for overcoming preexisting neutralizing antibodies are still lacking. However, despite these challenges, the goal of reliably delivering effective gene-based treatments is now in sight.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Federico Mingozzi
- Genethon and INSERM U951, 91000 Evry, France; .,University Pierre and Marie Curie Paris 6 and INSERM U974, 75651 Paris, France
| | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
Muik A, Reul J, Friedel T, Muth A, Hartmann KP, Schneider IC, Münch RC, Buchholz CJ. Covalent coupling of high-affinity ligands to the surface of viral vector particles by protein trans-splicing mediates cell type-specific gene transfer. Biomaterials 2017; 144:84-94. [PMID: 28825979 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2017.07.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2017] [Revised: 07/18/2017] [Accepted: 07/22/2017] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
We have established a novel approach for the covalent coupling of large polypeptides to the surface of fully assembled adeno-associated viral gene transfer vector (AAV) particles via split-intein mediated protein-trans-splicing (PTS). This way, we achieved selective gene transfer to distinct cell types. Single-chain variable fragments (scFvs) or designed ankyrin repeat proteins (DARPins), exhibiting high-affinity binding to cell surface receptors selectively expressed on the surface of target cells, were coupled to AAV particles harboring mutations in the capsid proteins which ablate natural receptor usage. Both, the AAV capsid protein VP2 and multiple separately produced targeting ligands recognizing Her2/neu, EpCAM, CD133 or CD30 were genetically fused with complementary split-intein domains. Optimized coupling conditions led to an effective conjugation of each targeting ligand to the universal AAV capsid and translated into specific gene transfer into target receptor-positive cell types in vitro and in vivo. Interestingly, PTS-based AAVs exhibited significantly less gene transfer into target receptor-negative cells than AAVs displaying the same targeting ligand but coupled genetically. Another important consequence of the PTS technology is the possibility to now display scFvs or other antibody-derived domain formats harboring disulfide-bonds in a functionally active form on the surface of AAV particles. Hence, the custom combination of a universal AAV vector particle and targeting ligands of various formats allows for an unprecedented flexibility in the generation of gene transfer vectors targeted to distinct cell types.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Muik
- Molecular Biotechnology and Gene Therapy, Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, 63225, Langen, Germany
| | - Johanna Reul
- Molecular Biotechnology and Gene Therapy, Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, 63225, Langen, Germany
| | - Thorsten Friedel
- Molecular Biotechnology and Gene Therapy, Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, 63225, Langen, Germany
| | - Anke Muth
- Molecular Biotechnology and Gene Therapy, Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, 63225, Langen, Germany
| | | | - Irene C Schneider
- Molecular Biotechnology and Gene Therapy, Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, 63225, Langen, Germany
| | - Robert C Münch
- Molecular Biotechnology and Gene Therapy, Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, 63225, Langen, Germany
| | - Christian J Buchholz
- Molecular Biotechnology and Gene Therapy, Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, 63225, Langen, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Selot R, Arumugam S, Mary B, Cheemadan S, Jayandharan GR. Optimized AAV rh.10 Vectors That Partially Evade Neutralizing Antibodies during Hepatic Gene Transfer. Front Pharmacol 2017; 8:441. [PMID: 28769791 PMCID: PMC5511854 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2017.00441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2017] [Accepted: 06/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Of the 12 common serotypes used for gene delivery applications, Adeno-associated virus (AAV)rh.10 serotype has shown sustained hepatic transduction and has the lowest seropositivity in humans. We have evaluated if further modifications to AAVrh.10 at its phosphodegron like regions or predicted immunogenic epitopes could improve its hepatic gene transfer and immune evasion potential. Mutant AAVrh.10 vectors were generated by site directed mutagenesis of the predicted targets. These mutant vectors were first tested for their transduction efficiency in HeLa and HEK293T cells. The optimal vector was further evaluated for their cellular uptake, entry, and intracellular trafficking by quantitative PCR and time-lapse confocal microscopy. To evaluate their potential during hepatic gene therapy, C57BL/6 mice were administered with wild-type or optimal mutant AAVrh.10 and the luciferase transgene expression was documented by serial bioluminescence imaging at 14, 30, 45, and 72 days post-gene transfer. Their hepatic transduction was further verified by a quantitative PCR analysis of AAV copy number in the liver tissue. The optimal AAVrh.10 vector was further evaluated for their immune escape potential, in animals pre-immunized with human intravenous immunoglobulin. Our results demonstrate that a modified AAVrh.10 S671A vector had enhanced cellular entry (3.6 fold), migrate rapidly to the perinuclear region (1 vs. >2 h for wild type vectors) in vitro, which further translates to modest increase in hepatic gene transfer efficiency in vivo. More importantly, the mutant AAVrh.10 vector was able to partially evade neutralizing antibodies (~27-64 fold) in pre-immunized animals. The development of an AAV vector system that can escape the circulating neutralizing antibodies in the host will substantially widen the scope of gene therapy applications in humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ruchita Selot
- Department of Biological Sciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of TechnologyKanpur, India
| | - Sathyathithan Arumugam
- Department of Biological Sciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of TechnologyKanpur, India
| | - Bertin Mary
- Department of Biological Sciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of TechnologyKanpur, India
| | - Sabna Cheemadan
- Department of Hematology and Centre for Stem Cell Research (CSCR), Christian Medical CollegeVellore, India
| | - Giridhara R. Jayandharan
- Department of Biological Sciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of TechnologyKanpur, India
- Department of Hematology and Centre for Stem Cell Research (CSCR), Christian Medical CollegeVellore, India
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Pillay S, Carette JE. Host determinants of adeno-associated viral vector entry. Curr Opin Virol 2017; 24:124-131. [PMID: 28672171 DOI: 10.1016/j.coviro.2017.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2016] [Revised: 05/28/2017] [Accepted: 06/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Viral vectors based on adeno-associated virus (AAV) are leading candidates for therapeutic gene delivery. Understanding rate-limiting steps in the entry of AAV vectors may be used in a rational approach to improve efficiency and specificity of transduction. This review describes our current understanding of AAV entry, a key step during infection. We discuss the identity and functions of AAV receptors and attachment factors, including the recently discovered multi-serotype receptor AAVR. We further provide an overview of other host factors that act during the trafficking stage of AAV vector transduction. In particular, we focus on cellular protein complexes associated with retrograde transport from endosomes to the trans-Golgi network. The novel insights in AAV-host interactions facilitated by technological advances in genetic screening approaches provide a greater depth in our understanding how AAV vectors exploit host factors to deliver its genetic cargo to the nucleus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sirika Pillay
- Stanford University, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Jan E Carette
- Stanford University, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Yan Z, Feng Z, Sun X, Zhang Y, Zou W, Wang Z, Jensen-Cody C, Liang B, Park SY, Qiu J, Engelhardt JF. Human Bocavirus Type-1 Capsid Facilitates the Transduction of Ferret Airways by Adeno-Associated Virus Genomes. Hum Gene Ther 2017; 28:612-625. [PMID: 28490200 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2017.060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Human bocavirus type-1 (HBoV1) has a high tropism for the apical membrane of human airway epithelia. The packaging of a recombinant adeno-associated virus 2 (rAAV2) genome into HBoV1 capsid produces a chimeric vector (rAAV2/HBoV1) that also efficiently transduces human airway epithelia. As such, this vector is attractive for use in gene therapies to treat lung diseases such as cystic fibrosis. However, preclinical development of rAAV2/HBoV1 vectors has been hindered by the fact that humans are the only known host for HBoV1 infection. This study reports that rAAV2/HBoV1 vector is capable of efficiently transducing the lungs of both newborn (3- to 7-day-old) and juvenile (29-day-old) ferrets, predominantly in the distal airways. Analyses of in vivo, ex vivo, and in vitro models of the ferret proximal airway demonstrate that infection of this particular region is less effective than it is in humans. Studies of vector binding and endocytosis in polarized ferret proximal airway epithelial cultures revealed that a lack of effective vector endocytosis is the main cause of inefficient transduction in vitro. While transgene expression declined proportionally with growth of the ferrets following infection at 7 days of age, reinfection of ferrets with rAAV2/HBoV1 at 29 days gave rise to approximately 5-fold higher levels of transduction than observed in naive infected 29-day-old animals. The findings presented here lay the foundation for clinical development of HBoV1 capsid-based vectors for lung gene therapy in cystic fibrosis using ferret models.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ziying Yan
- 1 Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Iowa , Iowa City, Iowa.,2 Center for Gene Therapy, University of Iowa , Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Zehua Feng
- 1 Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Iowa , Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Xingshen Sun
- 1 Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Iowa , Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Yulong Zhang
- 1 Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Iowa , Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Wei Zou
- 3 Department of Microbiology, Molecular Genetics and Immunology, University of Kansas Medical Center , Kansas City, Kansas
| | - Zekun Wang
- 3 Department of Microbiology, Molecular Genetics and Immunology, University of Kansas Medical Center , Kansas City, Kansas
| | | | - Bo Liang
- 1 Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Iowa , Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Soo-Yeun Park
- 1 Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Iowa , Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Jianming Qiu
- 3 Department of Microbiology, Molecular Genetics and Immunology, University of Kansas Medical Center , Kansas City, Kansas
| | - John F Engelhardt
- 1 Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Iowa , Iowa City, Iowa.,2 Center for Gene Therapy, University of Iowa , Iowa City, Iowa
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Abstract
Molecular genetic details of the human coagulation system were among the first successes of the genetic revolution in the 1980s. This information led to new molecular diagnostic strategies for inherited disorders of hemostasis and the development of recombinant clotting factors for the treatment of the common inherited bleeding disorders. A longer term goal of this knowledge has been the establishment of gene transfer to provide continuing access to missing or defective hemostatic proteins. Because of the relative infrequency of inherited coagulation factor disorders and the availability of safe and effective alternative means of management, the application of gene therapy for these conditions has been slow to realize clinical application. Nevertheless, the tools for effective and safe gene transfer are now much improved, and we have started to see examples of clinical gene therapy successes. Leading the way has been the use of adeno-associated virus-based strategies for factor IX gene transfer in hemophilia B. Several small phase 1/2 clinical studies using this approach have shown prolonged expression of therapeutically beneficial levels of factor IX. Nevertheless, before the application of gene therapy for coagulation disorders becomes widespread, several obstacles need to be overcome. Immunologic responses to the vector and transgenic protein need to be mitigated, and production strategies for clinical grade vectors require enhancements. There is little doubt that with the development of more efficient and facile strategies for genome editing and the application of other nucleic acid-based approaches to influence the coagulation system, the future of genetic therapies for hemostasis is bright.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura L Swystun
- From the Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - David Lillicrap
- From the Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Duan D. Systemic delivery of adeno-associated viral vectors. Curr Opin Virol 2016; 21:16-25. [PMID: 27459604 PMCID: PMC5138077 DOI: 10.1016/j.coviro.2016.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2016] [Revised: 07/07/2016] [Accepted: 07/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
For diseases like muscular dystrophy, an effective gene therapy requires bodywide correction. Systemic viral vector delivery has been attempted since early 1990s. Yet a true success was not achieved until mid-2000 when adeno-associated virus (AAV) serotype-6, 8 and 9 were found to result in global muscle transduction in rodents following intravenous injection. The simplicity of the technique immediately attracts attention. Marvelous whole body amelioration has been achieved in rodent models of many diseases. Scale-up in large mammals also shows promising results. Importantly, the first systemic AAV-9 therapy was initiated in patients in April 2014. Recent studies have now begun to reveal molecular underpinnings of systemic AAV delivery and to engineer new AAV capsids with superior properties for systemic gene therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dongsheng Duan
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, The University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA; Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, The University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA; Department of Bioengineering, The University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA; Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, The University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Frisch J, Orth P, Venkatesan JK, Rey‐Rico A, Schmitt G, Kohn D, Madry H, Cucchiarini M. Genetic Modification of Human Peripheral Blood Aspirates Using Recombinant Adeno-Associated Viral Vectors for Articular Cartilage Repair with a Focus on Chondrogenic Transforming Growth Factor-β Gene Delivery. Stem Cells Transl Med 2016; 6:249-260. [PMID: 28170175 PMCID: PMC5442727 DOI: 10.5966/sctm.2016-0149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2016] [Accepted: 07/28/2016] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Transplantation of genetically modified peripheral blood aspirates that carry chondrogenically competent progenitor cells may offer new, convenient tools to treat articular cartilage lesions compared with the more complex and invasive application of bone marrow concentrates or of bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells. Here, we show that recombinant adeno‐associated viral (rAAV) vectors are powerful gene vehicles capable of successfully targeting primary human peripheral blood aspirates in a stable and safe manner, allowing for an efficient and long‐term transgene expression in such samples (up to 63 days with use of a lacZ reporter gene and for at least 21 days with application of the pleiotropic, chondrogenic factor transforming growth factor‐β [TGF‐β]). rAAV‐mediated overexpression of TGF‐β enhanced both the proliferative and metabolic properties of the peripheral blood aspirates, also increasing the chondrogenic differentiation processes in these samples. Hypertrophy and osteogenic differentiation events were also activated by production of TGF‐β via rAAV, suggesting that translation of the current approach in vivo will probably require close regulation of expression of this candidate gene. However, these results support the concept of directly modifying peripheral blood as a novel approach to conveniently treat articular cartilage lesions in patients. Stem Cells Translational Medicine2017;6:249–260
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Janina Frisch
- Center of Experimental Orthopaedics, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | - Patrick Orth
- Center of Experimental Orthopaedics, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg/Saar, Germany
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | | | - Ana Rey‐Rico
- Center of Experimental Orthopaedics, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | - Gertrud Schmitt
- Center of Experimental Orthopaedics, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | - Dieter Kohn
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | - Henning Madry
- Center of Experimental Orthopaedics, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg/Saar, Germany
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | - Magali Cucchiarini
- Center of Experimental Orthopaedics, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg/Saar, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Structure Dependence of Lysosomal Transit of Chitosan-Based Polyplexes for Gene Delivery. Mol Biotechnol 2016; 58:648-656. [DOI: 10.1007/s12033-016-9964-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
|
42
|
Affiliation(s)
| | - R. Jude Samulski
- Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Díaz-Lezama N, Wu Z, Adán-Castro E, Arnold E, Vázquez-Membrillo M, Arredondo-Zamarripa D, Ledesma-Colunga MG, Moreno-Carranza B, Martinez de la Escalera G, Colosi P, Clapp C. Diabetes enhances the efficacy of AAV2 vectors in the retina: therapeutic effect of AAV2 encoding vasoinhibin and soluble VEGF receptor 1. J Transl Med 2016; 96:283-95. [PMID: 26568297 DOI: 10.1038/labinvest.2015.135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2015] [Revised: 10/16/2015] [Accepted: 10/20/2015] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector-mediated delivery of inhibitors of blood-retinal barrier breakdown (BRBB) offers promise for the treatment of diabetic macular edema. Here, we demonstrated a reversal of blood-retinal barrier pathology mediated by AAV type 2 (AAV2) vectors encoding vasoinhibin or soluble VEGF receptor 1 (sFlt-1) when administered intravitreally to diabetic rats. Efficacy and safety of the AAV2 vasoinhibin vector were tested by monitoring its effect on diabetes-induced changes in the retinal vascular bed and thickness, and in the electroretinogram (ERG). Also, the transduction of AAV2 vectors and expression of AAV2 receptors and co-receptors were compared between the diabetic and the non-diabetic rat retinas. AAV2 vasoinhibin or AAV2 sFlt-1 vectors were injected intravitreally before or after enhanced BRBB due to diabetes induced by streptozotocin. The BRBB was examined by the Evans blue method, the vascular bed by fluorescein angiography, expression of the AAV2 EGFP reporter vector by confocal microscopy, and the AAV2 genome, expression of transgenes, receptors, and co-receptors by quantitative PCR. AAV2 vasoinhibin and sFlt-1 vectors inhibited the diabetes-mediated increase in BRBB when injected after, but not before, diabetes was induced. The AAV2 vasoinhibin vector decreased retinal microvascular abnormalities and the diabetes-induced reduction of the B-wave of the ERG, but it had no effect in non-diabetic controls. Also, retinal thickness was not altered by diabetes or by the AAV2 vasoinhibin vector. The AAV2 genome, vasoinhibin and sFlt-1 transgenes, and EGFP levels were higher in the retinas from diabetic rats and were associated with an elevated expression of AAV2 receptors (syndecan, glypican, and perlecan) and co-receptors (fibroblast growth factor receptor 1, αvβ5 integrin, and hepatocyte growth factor receptor). We conclude that retinal transduction and efficacy of AAV2 vectors are enhanced in diabetes, possibly due to their elevated cell entry. AAV2 vectors encoding vasoinhibin and sFlt-1 may be desirable gene therapeutics to target diabetic retinopathy and macular edema.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nundehui Díaz-Lezama
- Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Querétaro, Mexico
| | - Zhijian Wu
- Ocular Gene Therapy Core, National Eye Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Elva Adán-Castro
- Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Querétaro, Mexico
| | - Edith Arnold
- Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Querétaro, Mexico
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Carmen Clapp
- Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Querétaro, Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Gomez EJ, Gerhardt K, Judd J, Tabor JJ, Suh J. Light-Activated Nuclear Translocation of Adeno-Associated Virus Nanoparticles Using Phytochrome B for Enhanced, Tunable, and Spatially Programmable Gene Delivery. ACS NANO 2016; 10:225-237. [PMID: 26618393 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.5b05558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Gene delivery vectors that are activated by external stimuli may allow improved control over the location and the degree of gene expression in target populations of cells. Light is an attractive stimulus because it does not cross-react with cellular signaling networks, has negligible toxicity, is noninvasive, and can be applied in space and time with unparalleled precision. We used the previously engineered red (R)/far-red (FR) light-switchable protein phytochrome B (PhyB) and its R light dependent interaction partner phytochrome interacting factor 6 (PIF6) from Arabidopsis thaliana to engineer an adeno-associated virus (AAV) platform whose gene delivery efficiency is controlled by light. Upon exposure to R light, AAV engineered to display PIF6 motifs on the capsid bind to PhyB tagged with a nuclear localization sequence (NLS), resulting in significantly increased translocation of viruses into the host cell nucleus and overall gene delivery efficiency. By modulating the ratio of R to FR light, the gene delivery efficiency can be tuned to as little as 35% or over 600% of the unengineered AAV. We also demonstrate spatial control of gene delivery using projected patterns of codelivered R and FR light. Overall, our successful use of light-switchable proteins in virus capsid engineering extends these important optogenetic tools into the adjacent realm of nucleic acid delivery and enables enhanced, tunable, and spatially controllable regulation of viral gene delivery. Our current light-triggered viral gene delivery prototype may be broadly useful for genetic manipulation of cells ex vivo or in vivo in transgenic model organisms, with the ultimate prospect of achieving dose- and site-specific gene expression profiles for either therapeutic (e.g., regenerative medicine) or fundamental discovery research efforts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eric J Gomez
- Department of Bioengineering, ‡Systems, Synthetic, and Physical Biology Program, and §Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Rice University , Houston, Texas 77005, United States
| | - Karl Gerhardt
- Department of Bioengineering, ‡Systems, Synthetic, and Physical Biology Program, and §Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Rice University , Houston, Texas 77005, United States
| | - Justin Judd
- Department of Bioengineering, ‡Systems, Synthetic, and Physical Biology Program, and §Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Rice University , Houston, Texas 77005, United States
| | - Jeffrey J Tabor
- Department of Bioengineering, ‡Systems, Synthetic, and Physical Biology Program, and §Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Rice University , Houston, Texas 77005, United States
| | - Junghae Suh
- Department of Bioengineering, ‡Systems, Synthetic, and Physical Biology Program, and §Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Rice University , Houston, Texas 77005, United States
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Abstract
Heart failure is a significant burden to the global healthcare system and represents an underserved market for new pharmacologic strategies, especially therapies which can address root cause myocyte dysfunction. Modern drugs, surgeries, and state-of-the-art interventions are costly and do not improve survival outcome measures. Gene therapy is an attractive strategy, whereby selected gene targets and their associated regulatory mechanisms can be permanently managed therapeutically in a single treatment. This in theory could be sustainable for the patient's life. Despite the promise, however, gene therapy has numerous challenges that must be addressed together as a treatment plan comprising these key elements: myocyte physiologic target validation, gene target manipulation strategy, vector selection for the correct level of manipulation, and carefully utilizing an efficient delivery route that can be implemented in the clinic to efficiently transfer the therapy within safety limits. This chapter summarizes the key developments in cardiac gene therapy from the perspective of understanding each of these components of the treatment plan. The latest pharmacologic gene targets, gene therapy vectors, delivery routes, and strategies are reviewed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anthony S Fargnoli
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Cardiovascular Research Center, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Michael G Katz
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Cardiovascular Research Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Charles R Bridges
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Cardiovascular Research Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Roger J Hajjar
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Cardiovascular Research Center, New York, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Rey-Rico A, Cucchiarini M. Controlled release strategies for rAAV-mediated gene delivery. Acta Biomater 2016; 29:1-10. [PMID: 26472612 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2015.10.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2015] [Revised: 10/02/2015] [Accepted: 10/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The development of efficient and safe gene transfer vectors capable of achieving appropriate levels of therapeutic gene expression in a target is one of the most challenging issues in clinical gene therapy. Diverse nonviral and viral gene vehicles have been developed to modify human cells and tissues that may be affected in a variety of diseases, among which the nonpathogenic, effective, and relatively safe recombinant adeno-associated viral (rAAV) vectors that make them a preferred gene delivery system to treat human disorders. Yet, their adapted clinical application is still limited by several hurdles including the presence of immune responses in the host organism and the existence of rate-limiting steps associated with physiological barriers. The use of controlled release strategies to deliver gene vectors such as rAAV may provide powerful tools to enhance the temporal and spatial presentation of therapeutic agents in a defined target and to overcome such obstacles in vivo. The goal of this review is to provide an overview of the most recent advances in gene therapy with a focus on rAAV vectors for clinical translation based on the controlled release from adapted biomaterials as a means to improve the performance of the gene transfer procedure. We also discuss the challenges that remain to be addressed for a safe and efficient adaptation and use of such approaches in the patient. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE The development of effective gene vectors to achieve suitable levels of a therapeutic agent in a target is a critical issue in clinical gene therapy and regenerative medicine. Diverse vehicles are currently available among which the nonpathogenic recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) vectors, a preferred system to effectively treat human disorders. Yet, the clinical use of rAAV is impaired by the host immune responses and by rate-limiting steps of transgene expression. Controlled rAAV delivery systems may provide workable approaches to overcome such obstacles. Here, we give an overview of the most recent advances on the controlled release of vectors with a focus on rAAV using adapted biomaterials and discuss the key challenges for a safe translation in patients.
Collapse
|
47
|
Hölscher C, Sonntag F, Henrich K, Chen Q, Beneke J, Matula P, Rohr K, Kaderali L, Beil N, Erfle H, Kleinschmidt JA, Müller M. The SUMOylation Pathway Restricts Gene Transduction by Adeno-Associated Viruses. PLoS Pathog 2015; 11:e1005281. [PMID: 26625259 PMCID: PMC4666624 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1005281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2015] [Accepted: 10/25/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Adeno-associated viruses are members of the genus dependoviruses of the parvoviridae family. AAV vectors are considered promising vectors for gene therapy and genetic vaccination as they can be easily produced, are highly stable and non-pathogenic. Nevertheless, transduction of cells in vitro and in vivo by AAV in the absence of a helper virus is comparatively inefficient requiring high multiplicity of infection. Several bottlenecks for AAV transduction have previously been described, including release from endosomes, nuclear transport and conversion of the single stranded DNA into a double stranded molecule. We hypothesized that the bottlenecks in AAV transduction are, in part, due to the presence of host cell restriction factors acting directly or indirectly on the AAV-mediated gene transduction. In order to identify such factors we performed a whole genome siRNA screen which identified a number of putative genes interfering with AAV gene transduction. A number of factors, yielding the highest scores, were identified as members of the SUMOylation pathway. We identified Ubc9, the E2 conjugating enzyme as well as Sae1 and Sae2, enzymes responsible for activating E1, as factors involved in restricting AAV. The restriction effect, mediated by these factors, was validated and reproduced independently. Our data indicate that SUMOylation targets entry of AAV capsids and not downstream processes of uncoating, including DNA single strand conversion or DNA damage signaling. We suggest that transiently targeting SUMOylation will enhance application of AAV in vitro and in vivo.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Qingxin Chen
- German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jürgen Beneke
- VIROQUANT-CellNetworks RNAi Screening Facility, BIOQUANT Center University Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Petr Matula
- Biomedical Computer Vision Group, Dept. Bioinformatics and Functional Genomics, University of Heidelberg, BIOQUANT, IPMB, and German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Karl Rohr
- Biomedical Computer Vision Group, Dept. Bioinformatics and Functional Genomics, University of Heidelberg, BIOQUANT, IPMB, and German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Lars Kaderali
- University Medicine Greifswald, Institute for Bioinformatics, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Nina Beil
- VIROQUANT-CellNetworks RNAi Screening Facility, BIOQUANT Center University Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Holger Erfle
- VIROQUANT-CellNetworks RNAi Screening Facility, BIOQUANT Center University Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | - Martin Müller
- German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Yan Z, Sun X, Feng Z, Li G, Fisher JT, Stewart ZA, Engelhardt JF. Optimization of Recombinant Adeno-Associated Virus-Mediated Expression for Large Transgenes, Using a Synthetic Promoter and Tandem Array Enhancers. Hum Gene Ther 2015; 26:334-46. [PMID: 25763813 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2015.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The packaging capacity of recombinant adeno-associated viral (rAAV) vectors limits the size of the promoter that can be used to express the 4.43-kb cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) cDNA. To circumvent this limitation, we screened a set of 100-mer synthetic enhancer elements, composed of ten 10-bp repeats, for their ability to augment CFTR transgene expression from a short 83-bp synthetic promoter in the context of an rAAV vector designed for use in the cystic fibrosis (CF) ferret model. Our initial studies assessing transcriptional activity in monolayer (nonpolarized) cultures of human airway cell lines and primary ferret airway cells revealed that three of these synthetic enhancers (F1, F5, and F10) significantly promoted transcription of a luciferase transgene in the context of plasmid transfection. Further analysis in polarized cultures of human and ferret airway epithelia at an air-liquid interface (ALI), as well as in the ferret airway in vivo, demonstrated that the F5 enhancer produced the highest level of transgene expression in the context of an AAV vector. Furthermore, we demonstrated that increasing the size of the viral genome from 4.94 to 5.04 kb did not significantly affect particle yield of the vectors, but dramatically reduced the functionality of rAAV-CFTR vectors because of small terminal deletions that extended into the CFTR expression cassette of the 5.04-kb oversized genome. Because rAAV-CFTR vectors greater than 5 kb in size are dramatically impaired with respect to vector efficacy, we used a shortened ferret CFTR minigene with a 159-bp deletion in the R domain to construct an rAAV vector (AV2/2.F5tg83-fCFTRΔR). This vector yielded an ∼17-fold increase in expression of CFTR and significantly improved Cl(-) currents in CF ALI cultures. Our study has identified a small enhancer/promoter combination that may have broad usefulness for rAAV-mediated CF gene therapy to the airway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ziying Yan
- 1 Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Iowa School of Medicine , Iowa City, IA 52242.,2 Center for Gene Therapy, University of Iowa School of Medicine , Iowa City, IA 52242
| | - Xingshen Sun
- 1 Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Iowa School of Medicine , Iowa City, IA 52242
| | - Zehua Feng
- 1 Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Iowa School of Medicine , Iowa City, IA 52242
| | - Guiying Li
- 3 Department of Surgery, University of Iowa School of Medicine , Iowa City, IA 52242
| | - John T Fisher
- 1 Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Iowa School of Medicine , Iowa City, IA 52242
| | - Zoe A Stewart
- 3 Department of Surgery, University of Iowa School of Medicine , Iowa City, IA 52242
| | - John F Engelhardt
- 1 Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Iowa School of Medicine , Iowa City, IA 52242.,2 Center for Gene Therapy, University of Iowa School of Medicine , Iowa City, IA 52242.,4 Department of Internal Medicine, University of Iowa School of Medicine , Iowa City, IA 52242
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Yan Z, Stewart ZA, Sinn PL, Olsen JC, Hu J, McCray PB, Engelhardt JF. Ferret and pig models of cystic fibrosis: prospects and promise for gene therapy. HUM GENE THER CL DEV 2015; 26:38-49. [PMID: 25675143 PMCID: PMC4367511 DOI: 10.1089/humc.2014.154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2014] [Accepted: 12/26/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Large animal models of genetic diseases are rapidly becoming integral to biomedical research as technologies to manipulate the mammalian genome improve. The creation of cystic fibrosis (CF) ferrets and pigs is an example of such progress in animal modeling, with the disease phenotypes in the ferret and pig models more reflective of human CF disease than mouse models. The ferret and pig CF models also provide unique opportunities to develop and assess the effectiveness of gene and cell therapies to treat affected organs. In this review, we examine the organ disease phenotypes in these new CF models and the opportunities to test gene therapies at various stages of disease progression in affected organs. We then discuss the progress in developing recombinant replication-defective adenoviral, adeno-associated viral, and lentiviral vectors to target genes to the lung and pancreas in ferrets and pigs, the two most affected organs in CF. Through this review, we hope to convey the potential of these new animal models for developing CF gene and cell therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ziying Yan
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Iowa School of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242
- Center for Gene Therapy of Cystic Fibrosis, University of Iowa School of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242
| | - Zoe A. Stewart
- Department of Surgery, University of Iowa School of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242
| | - Patrick L. Sinn
- Center for Gene Therapy of Cystic Fibrosis, University of Iowa School of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Iowa School of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242
| | - John C. Olsen
- Cystic Fibrosis/Pulmonary Research and Treatment Center, Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599
| | - Jim Hu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, Hospital for Sick Children and University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Paul B. McCray
- Center for Gene Therapy of Cystic Fibrosis, University of Iowa School of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Iowa School of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242
| | - John F. Engelhardt
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Iowa School of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242
- Center for Gene Therapy of Cystic Fibrosis, University of Iowa School of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Iowa School of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Abstract
The striosome (or patch) was first identified with anatomical techniques as neurons organized in a three-dimensional labyrinth inserted in and interdigitating the rest of neostriatum: the matrix. Striosome and matrix rapidly became known as two neuronal compartments expressing different biochemical markers, embryonic development and afferent and efferent connectivity. In spite of extensive intrinsic neuronal axonal and dendritic extensions supposed to exchange information between matrix and striosomes, evidence suggested the presence of independent areas. Here, we report that indeed these two areas do not exchange synaptic information. We used genetic expression of channel rhodopsin 2 carried by adeno-associated virus serotype 10 (AAVrh10) that only expresses in neurons of the matrix compartment. Whole-cell patch-clamp recordings of matrix neurons activated by light pulses consistently produced inhibitory postsynaptic currents (IPSCs), but the same manipulation did not evoke IPSCs in striosome neurons. The matrix contains both direct and indirect striatal output pathways. By targeting striatal matrix expression of designer receptors exclusively activated by a designer drug (DREADD) hM3di carried by AAVrh10, we were able to inhibit the matrix neuronal compartment of the dorsolateral striatum during performance of a learned single-pellet reach-to-grasp task. As expected, inhibition of matrix neurons by systemic administration of DREADD agonist clozapine-n-oxide interfered with performance of the learned task.
Collapse
|