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Targeting the Inside of Cells with Biologicals: Toxin Routes in a Therapeutic Context. BioDrugs 2023; 37:181-203. [PMID: 36729328 PMCID: PMC9893211 DOI: 10.1007/s40259-023-00580-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Numerous toxins translocate to the cytosol in order to fulfil their function. This demonstrates the existence of routes for proteins from the extracellular space to the cytosol. Understanding these routes is relevant to multiple aspects related to therapeutic applications. These include the development of anti-toxin treatments, the potential use of toxins as shuttles for delivering macromolecular cargo to the cytosol or the use of drugs based on toxins. Compared with other strategies for delivery, such as chemicals as carriers for macromolecular delivery or physical methods like electroporation, toxin routes present paths into the cell that potentially cause less damage and can be specifically targeted. The efficiency of delivery via toxin routes is limited. However, low-delivery efficiencies can be entirely sufficient, if delivered cargoes possess an amplification effect or if very few molecules are sufficient for inducing the desired effects. This is known for example from RNA-based vaccines that have been developed during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic as well as for other approved RNA-based drugs, which elicited the desired effect despite their typically low delivery efficiencies. The different mechanisms by which toxins enter cells may have implications for their technological utility. We review the mechanistic principles of the translocation pathway of toxins from the extracellular space to the cytosol, the delivery efficiencies, and therapeutic strategies or applications that exploit toxin routes for intracellular delivery.
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Nelemans LC, Gurevich L. Drug Delivery with Polymeric Nanocarriers-Cellular Uptake Mechanisms. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2020; 13:E366. [PMID: 31941006 PMCID: PMC7013754 DOI: 10.3390/ma13020366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Revised: 01/06/2020] [Accepted: 01/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Nanocarrier-based systems hold a promise to become "Dr. Ehrlich's Magic Bullet" capable of delivering drugs, proteins and genetic materials intact to a specific location in an organism down to subcellular level. The key question, however, how a nanocarrier is internalized by cells and how its intracellular trafficking and the fate in the cell can be controlled remains yet to be answered. In this review we survey drug delivery systems based on various polymeric nanocarriers, their uptake mechanisms, as well as the experimental techniques and common pathway inhibitors applied for internalization studies. While energy-dependent endocytosis is observed as the main uptake pathway, the integrity of a drug-loaded nanocarrier upon its internalization appears to be a seldomly addressed problem that can drastically affect the uptake kinetics and toxicity of the system in vitro and in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Leonid Gurevich
- Department of Materials and Production, Aalborg University, 9220 Aalborg, Denmark;
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3
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Su Z, Erdene-Ochir T, Ganbold T, Baigude H. Design of curdlan-based pH-sensitive polymers with endosome buffering functionality for siRNA delivery. Int J Biol Macromol 2019; 146:773-780. [PMID: 31778701 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2019.10.129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2019] [Revised: 10/13/2019] [Accepted: 10/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Developing nucleic acid-based tools to control disease-relevant gene expression in human disorders, such as siRNAs, opens up potential opportunities for therapeutics. Because of their high molecular weight and polyanionic nature, synthetic siRNAs fail to cross biological membranes by passive diffusion and therefore, generally require transmembrane siRNA delivery technologies to access the cytoplasm of target cells. To create a biocompatible siRNA delivery agent, we chemically modified natural polysaccharide curdlan derivative 6AC-100 in a regioselective manner to introduce different ratios of imidazole rings in the amino units (denoted as Curimi) and evaluated their siRNA binding ability, cytotoxicity, endosome buffering capacity and siRNA transfection efficiency. The novel curdlan based Curimi polymers formed nanoparticles with siRNA at pH 7.4 in range of 85-105 nm and their size distribution increased along with decreasing pH condition. The zeta potential increased by lowering pH value as well. Curimi polymers showed lower toxicity and higher buffering capacity compared to 6AC-100, and efficiently delivered siRNA against to PLK1 into cancer cells, and subsequently, significantly inhibited target mRNA level. Our result suggested that novel curdlan based Curimi polymers may be used as efficient siRNA carrier for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiyu Su
- School of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Mongolian Medicinal Chemistry, Inner Mongolia University, 235 West College Road, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia 010021, PR China
| | - Tseyenkhorloo Erdene-Ochir
- School of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Mongolian Medicinal Chemistry, Inner Mongolia University, 235 West College Road, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia 010021, PR China
| | - Tsogzolmaa Ganbold
- School of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Mongolian Medicinal Chemistry, Inner Mongolia University, 235 West College Road, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia 010021, PR China.
| | - Huricha Baigude
- School of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Mongolian Medicinal Chemistry, Inner Mongolia University, 235 West College Road, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia 010021, PR China.
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4
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Zhang SK, Song JW, Li SB, Gao HW, Chang HY, Jia LL, Gong F, Tan YX, Ji SP. Design of pH-sensitive peptides from natural antimicrobial peptides for enhancing polyethylenimine-mediated gene transfection. J Gene Med 2017; 19. [PMID: 28370835 DOI: 10.1002/jgm.2955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2016] [Revised: 03/30/2017] [Accepted: 03/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Poor endosomal release is a major barrier of polyplex-mediated gene transfection. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are commonly used to improve polyethylenimine (PEI)-mediated gene transfection by increasing endosomal release. In the present study, we designed novel pH-sensitive peptides that highly enhance transfection efficiency compared to their parent peptides. METHODS Two analogues of melittin (Mel) and RV-23 (RV) were synthesized by replacing the positively-charged residues in their sequences with glutamic acid residues. The pH-sensitive lysis ability of the peptides, the effect of the peptides on physicochemical characteristics, the intracellular trafficking, the transfection efficiency, and the cytotoxicity of the polyplexes were determined. RESULTS The acidic peptides showed pH-sensitive lytic activity. The hemolytic activity of acidic peptides at pH 5.0 was higher than that at pH 7.4. The incorporation of acidic peptides did not affect the DNA binding ability of PEI but affected the physicochemical characteristics of the PEI/DNA polyplexes, which may be beneficial for endosomal release and gene transfection. The incorporation of acidic peptides into PEI/DNA polyplexes enhanced the PEI-mediated transfection efficiency corresponding to up to 42-fold higher luciferase activity compared to that of PEI alone. CONCLUSIONS The results of the present study indicate that replacement of positively-charged residues with glutamic acid residues in the AMP sequence yields pH-sensitive peptides, which enhance the transfection efficiency of PEI/DNA polyplexes in various cell lines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shi-Kun Zhang
- Department of Tissue Engineering, Beijing Institute of Transfusion Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Jin-Wen Song
- Department of Tissue Engineering, Beijing Institute of Transfusion Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Su-Bo Li
- Department of Tissue Engineering, Beijing Institute of Transfusion Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Hong-Wei Gao
- Department of Tissue Engineering, Beijing Institute of Transfusion Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Hong-Yu Chang
- Department of Paediatrics, General Hospital of the PLA Rocket Force, Beijing, China
| | - Li-Li Jia
- Neonatal Department of Xi'an No 4 Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Feng Gong
- Department of Tissue Engineering, Beijing Institute of Transfusion Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Ying-Xia Tan
- Department of Tissue Engineering, Beijing Institute of Transfusion Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Shou-Ping Ji
- Department of Tissue Engineering, Beijing Institute of Transfusion Medicine, Beijing, China
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5
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Cervia LD, Chang CC, Wang L, Yuan F. Distinct effects of endosomal escape and inhibition of endosomal trafficking on gene delivery via electrotransfection. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0171699. [PMID: 28182739 PMCID: PMC5300164 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0171699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2016] [Accepted: 01/24/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
A recent theory suggests that endocytosis is involved in uptake and intracellular transport of electrotransfected plasmid DNA (pDNA). The goal of the current study was to understand if approaches used previously to improve endocytosis of gene delivery vectors could be applied to enhancing electrotransfection efficiency (eTE). Results from the study showed that photochemically induced endosomal escape, which could increase poly-L-lysine (PLL)-mediated gene delivery, decreased eTE. The decrease could not be blocked by treatment of cells with endonuclease inhibitors (aurintricarboxylic acid and zinc ion) or antioxidants (L-glutamine and ascorbic acid). Chemical treatment of cells with an endosomal trafficking inhibitor that blocks endosome progression, bafilomycin A1, resulted in a significant decrease in eTE. However, treatment of cells with lysosomotropic agents (chloroquine and ammonium chloride) had little effects on eTE. These data suggested that endosomes played important roles in protecting and intracellular trafficking of electrotransfected pDNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa D. Cervia
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Chun-Chi Chang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Liangli Wang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Fan Yuan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
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6
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Zhang P, Wagner E. History of Polymeric Gene Delivery Systems. Top Curr Chem (Cham) 2017; 375:26. [PMID: 28181193 DOI: 10.1007/s41061-017-0112-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2016] [Accepted: 01/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
As an option for genetic disease treatment and an alternative for traditional cancer chemotherapy, gene therapy achieves significant attention. Nucleic acid delivery, however, remains a main challenge in human gene therapy. Polymer-based delivery systems offer a safer and promising route for therapeutic gene delivery. Over the past five decades, various cationic polymers have been optimized for increasingly effective nucleic acid transfer. This resulted in a chemical evolution of cationic polymers from the first-generation polycations towards bioinspired multifunctional sequence-defined polymers and nanocomposites. With the increasing of knowledge in molecular biological processes and rapid progress of macromolecular chemistry, further improvement of polymeric nucleic acid delivery systems will provide effective tool for gene-based therapy in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Zhang
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Center for System-Based Drug Research Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, 81377, Munich, Germany. .,Nanosystems Initiative Munich (NIM), 80799, Munich, Germany.
| | - Ernst Wagner
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Center for System-Based Drug Research Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, 81377, Munich, Germany.,Nanosystems Initiative Munich (NIM), 80799, Munich, Germany.,Center for NanoScience (CeNS), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, 80799, Munich, Germany
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7
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Shorter SA, Gollings AS, Gorringe-Pattrick MAM, Coakley JE, Dyer PDR, Richardson SCW. The potential of toxin-based drug delivery systems for enhanced nucleic acid therapeutic delivery. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2016; 14:685-696. [DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2016.1227781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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8
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Raad MD, Teunissen EA, Mastrobattista E. Peptide vectors for gene delivery: from single peptides to multifunctional peptide nanocarriers. Nanomedicine (Lond) 2014; 9:2217-32. [DOI: 10.2217/nnm.14.90] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The therapeutic use of nucleic acids relies on the availability of sophisticated delivery systems for targeted and intracellular delivery of these molecules. Such a gene delivery should possess essential characteristics to overcome several extracellular and intracellular barriers. Peptides offer an attractive platform for nonviral gene delivery, as several functional peptide classes exist capable of overcoming these barriers. However, none of these functional peptide classes contain all the essential characteristics required to overcome all of the barriers associated with successful gene delivery. Combining functional peptides into multifunctional peptide vectors will be pivotal for improving peptide-based gene delivery systems. By using combinatorial strategies and high-throughput screening, the identification of multifunctional peptide vectors will accelerate the optimization of peptide-based gene delivery systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus de Raad
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Utrecht, Universiteitsweg 99, 3584 CG Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Erik A Teunissen
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Utrecht, Universiteitsweg 99, 3584 CG Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Enrico Mastrobattista
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Utrecht, Universiteitsweg 99, 3584 CG Utrecht, The Netherlands
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9
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Ruiz de Garibay AP, Solinís Aspiazu MÁ, Rodríguez Gascón A, Ganjian H, Fuchs R. Role of endocytic uptake in transfection efficiency of solid lipid nanoparticles-based nonviral vectors. J Gene Med 2013; 15:427-40. [DOI: 10.1002/jgm.2749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2013] [Revised: 11/15/2013] [Accepted: 11/22/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Aritz Perez Ruiz de Garibay
- Pharmacokinetics, Nanotechnology and Gene Therapy Group, Pharmacy Faculty; University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU; Vitoria-Gasteiz Spain
- Centro de Investigación Lascaray Ikergunea; Universidad del País Vasco UPV/EHU; Vitoria-Gasteiz Spain
| | - María Ángeles Solinís Aspiazu
- Pharmacokinetics, Nanotechnology and Gene Therapy Group, Pharmacy Faculty; University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU; Vitoria-Gasteiz Spain
- Centro de Investigación Lascaray Ikergunea; Universidad del País Vasco UPV/EHU; Vitoria-Gasteiz Spain
| | - Alicia Rodríguez Gascón
- Pharmacokinetics, Nanotechnology and Gene Therapy Group, Pharmacy Faculty; University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU; Vitoria-Gasteiz Spain
- Centro de Investigación Lascaray Ikergunea; Universidad del País Vasco UPV/EHU; Vitoria-Gasteiz Spain
| | - Haleh Ganjian
- Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research; Medical University of Vienna; Vienna Austria
| | - Renate Fuchs
- Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research; Medical University of Vienna; Vienna Austria
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10
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Redrejo-Rodríguez M, Muñoz-Espín D, Holguera I, Mencía M, Salas M. Nuclear localization signals in phage terminal proteins provide a novel gene delivery tool in mammalian cells. Commun Integr Biol 2013; 6:e22829. [PMID: 23750294 PMCID: PMC3609834 DOI: 10.4161/cib.22829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2012] [Accepted: 11/08/2012] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Terminal proteins (TPs) of bacteriophages prime DNA replication and become covalently linked to the genome ends. Unexpectedly, we have found functional eukaryotic nuclear localization signals (NLSs) within the TP sequences of bacteriophages from diverse families and hosts. Given the role of bacteriophages as vehicles for horizontal gene transfer (HGT), we postulated that viral genomes that have covalently linked NLS-containing terminal proteins might behave as vectors for HGT between bacteria and the eukaryotic nucleus. To validate this hypothesis, we profited from the in vitro Φ29 amplification system that allows the amplification of heterologous DNAs producing linear molecules of DNA with TP covalently attached to both 5' ends. Interestingly, these in vitro-generated TP-DNA molecules showed enhanced gene delivery in mammalian cells, supporting a possible role in HGT by transferring genes between prokaryotes and eukaryotes. Moreover, these TP-DNA molecules are a useful tool to amplify and subsequently deliver genes efficiently into the eukaryotic nucleus. Here, we suggest various possible applications and further developments of the technique with biotechnological and therapeutic purposes.
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11
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12
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Toita R, Kang JH, Tomiyama T, Kim CW, Shiosaki S, Niidome T, Mori T, Katayama Y. Gene carrier showing all-or-none response to cancer cell signaling. J Am Chem Soc 2012; 134:15410-7. [PMID: 22920909 DOI: 10.1021/ja305437n] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
In this work we designed a novel nano carrier, a linear polyethylenimine (LPEI)-peptide conjugate, for cancer-specific expression of transgenes. The conjugate was easily synthesized by using a click chemistry scheme orthogonal to the reactive side groups of the peptide, which is the substrate of protein kinase Cα (PKCα). Polyplexes of the conjugates with plasmid DNA (pDNA) were intact and stably dispersed even in the presence of cell lysate. Despite this stability, the polyplexes readily dissociated upon phosphorylation of the grafted peptides by PKCα. Because of its endosomal escape ability and adequate susceptibility to PKCα, the polyplexes showed an all-or-none type response to PKCα activity in transgene expression in vitro. The polyplexes achieved cancer tissue-specific transgene expression even for a tumor with a relatively low PKCα activity. Thus the LPEI-peptide conjugate has high potential as a nanocarrier for cancer-targeted gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riki Toita
- Graduate School of Systems Life Sciences, Kyushu University, 744 Motooka, Fukuoka, 819-0395, Japan
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13
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Nakase I, Kobayashi S, Futaki S. Endosome-disruptive peptides for improving cytosolic delivery of bioactive macromolecules. Biopolymers 2011; 94:763-70. [PMID: 20564044 DOI: 10.1002/bip.21487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Along with recent advances in therapeutic technologies based on biomacromolecules, including genes, oligonucleotides, and proteins, the development of technologies for improving the efficiency of the delivery of these therapeutic molecules into cells, more specifically into the cytosol and nucleus, is significantly required. Cell membranes are major impediments to the delivery of therapeutic macromolecules into cells. These macromolecules are usually taken up by the cells via endocytosis, and their translocation from endosomes to the cytosol is a critical step to determine their therapeutic effects. Many viruses and bacterial toxins use endocytic pathways to invade the host mammalian cells, and some of these pathogens have the ability to facilitate their endosomal escape into the cytosol by pH-induced alteration in their component proteins that leads to the disruption of the endosomal membranes and the eventual membrane fusions. To simulating these functions, endosome-disruptive peptides have been used for the intracellular delivery of biomacromolecules to accelerate their endosomal escape by sensing the endosomal acidification. In this review, current approaches for the intracellular delivery using these endosome-disruptive peptides are surveyed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ikuhiko Nakase
- Institute for Chemical Research, Kyoto University, Kyoto 611-0011, Japan
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14
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Kim TI, Rothmund T, Kissel T, Kim SW. Bioreducible polymers with cell penetrating and endosome buffering functionality for gene delivery systems. J Control Release 2011; 152:110-9. [PMID: 21352876 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2011.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2010] [Revised: 02/08/2011] [Accepted: 02/11/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Bioreducible cationic polymers (p(DAH(a)-R/API(b))s) composed of different ratios (a:b=2:1, 1:1, 1:2) between arginine-grafted diaminohexane (DAH-R) (cell penetrating functionality) and 1-(3-aminopropyl) imidazole (API) (endosome buffering functionality) monomers were synthesized by Michael reaction of N,N'-cystaminebisacrylamide (CBA) with them, in order to study the effect of endosome buffering moiety on arginine-grafted bioreducible polymeric gene carriers. Several experiments displayed a distinct correlation between monomer composition ratios of p(DAH-R/API)s and the polymer features. Increased endosome buffering capacities proportional to API portions was evaluated for p(DAH-R/API)s due to the imidazole group (pKa=6) of API. Increased portions of API non-ionized at physiological pH and resultant decrease of arginine residues also reduced cytotoxicities of the polymers due to less interaction of cellular compartments with less positively charged polymers but decreased pDNA condensing abilities, Zeta-potential values, cellular uptakes of polyplexes, and finally transfection efficiencies as well. Thus, the predominance of arginine residues over endosome buffering moieties was revealed regarding efficient gene delivery for p(DAH-R/API)s. From transfection results with chloroquine or nigericin, it can be deduced that the endosomal escape of p(DAH-R/API) polyplexes occurs by direct endosome membrane penetration of arginine moieties as well as endosome buffering of the polymers after cellular uptake, which emphasizes the importance of arginine moieties for polymeric gene delivery systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tae-il Kim
- Department of Biosystems and Biomaterials Science and Engineering, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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15
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Domingo-Espín J, Unzueta U, Saccardo P, Rodríguez-Carmona E, Corchero JL, Vázquez E, Ferrer-Miralles N. Engineered biological entities for drug delivery and gene therapy protein nanoparticles. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2011; 104:247-98. [PMID: 22093221 PMCID: PMC7173510 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-416020-0.00006-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The development of genetic engineering techniques has speeded up the growth of the biotechnological industry, resulting in a significant increase in the number of recombinant protein products on the market. The deep knowledge of protein function, structure, biological interactions, and the possibility to design new polypeptides with desired biological activities have been the main factors involved in the increase of intensive research and preclinical and clinical approaches. Consequently, new biological entities with added value for innovative medicines such as increased stability, improved targeting, and reduced toxicity, among others have been obtained. Proteins are complex nanoparticles with sizes ranging from a few nanometers to a few hundred nanometers when complex supramolecular interactions occur, as for example, in viral capsids. However, even though protein production is a delicate process that imposes the use of sophisticated analytical methods and negative secondary effects have been detected in some cases as immune and inflammatory reactions, the great potential of biodegradable and tunable protein nanoparticles indicates that protein-based biotechnological products are expected to increase in the years to come.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joan Domingo-Espín
- Institute for Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain,Department of Genetics and Microbiology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain,CIBER de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ugutz Unzueta
- Institute for Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain,Department of Genetics and Microbiology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain,CIBER de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Paolo Saccardo
- Institute for Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain,Department of Genetics and Microbiology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain,CIBER de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Escarlata Rodríguez-Carmona
- Institute for Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain,Department of Genetics and Microbiology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain,CIBER de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - José Luís Corchero
- Institute for Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain,Department of Genetics and Microbiology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain,CIBER de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Esther Vázquez
- Institute for Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain,Department of Genetics and Microbiology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain,CIBER de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Neus Ferrer-Miralles
- Institute for Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain,Department of Genetics and Microbiology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain,CIBER de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
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McCarthy HO, Wang Y, Mangipudi SS, Hatefi A. Advances with the use of bio-inspired vectors towards creation of artificial viruses. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2010; 7:497-512. [PMID: 20151849 DOI: 10.1517/17425240903579989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE OF THE FIELD In recent years, there has been a great deal of interest in the development of recombinant vectors based on biological motifs with potential applications in gene therapy. Several such vectors have been genetically engineered, resulting in biomacromolecules with new properties that are not present in nature. AREAS COVERED IN THIS REVIEW This review briefly discusses the advantages and disadvantages of the current state-of-the-art gene delivery systems (viral and non-viral) and then provides an overview on the application of various biological motifs in vector development for gene delivery. Finally, it highlights some of the most advanced bio-inspired vectors that are designed to perform several self-guided functions. WHAT THE READER WILL GAIN This review helps the readers get a better understanding about the history and evolution of bio-inspired fusion vectors with the potential to merge the strengths of both viral and non-viral vectors in order to create efficient, safe and cost-effective gene delivery systems. TAKE HOME MESSAGE With the emergence of new technologies such as recombinant bio-inspired vectors, it may not take long before non-viral vectors are observed that are not just safe and tissue-specific, but even more efficient than viral vectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen O McCarthy
- Queens University Belfast, School of Pharmacy, BT9 7BL, Northern Ireland, UK
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Mangipudi SS, Canine BF, Wang Y, Hatefi A. Development of a genetically engineered biomimetic vector for targeted gene transfer to breast cancer cells. Mol Pharm 2009; 6:1100-9. [PMID: 19419197 DOI: 10.1021/mp800251x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
A biomimetic vector was genetically engineered to contain at precise locations (a) an adenovirus mu peptide to condense pDNA into nanosize particles, (b) a synthetic cyclic peptide to target breast cancer cells and enhance internalization of nanoparticles, (c) a pH-responsive synthetic fusogenic peptide to disrupt endosome membranes and facilitate escape of the nanoparticles into the cytosol, and (d) a nuclear localization signal from human immunodeficiency virus for microtubule mediated transfer of genetic material to the nucleus. The vector was characterized using physicochemical and biological assays to demonstrate the functionality of each motif in the vector backbone. The results demonstrated that the vector is able to condense plasmid DNA into nanosize particles (<100 nm), protect pDNA from serum endonucleases, target ZR-75-1 breast cancer cells and internalize, efficiently disrupt endosome membranes, exploit microtubules to reach nucleus and mediate gene expression. The therapeutic potential of the vector was evaluated by complexing with plasmid DNA encoding TRAIL (pTRAIL) and transfecting ZR-75-1 cells. The results demonstrated that up to 62% of the ZR-75-1 breast cancer cells can be killed after administration of pTRAIL in complex with the vector.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sriramchandra S Mangipudi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Center for Integrated Biotechnology, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington 99164, USA
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Saccardo P, Villaverde A, González-Montalbán N. Peptide-mediated DNA condensation for non-viral gene therapy. Biotechnol Adv 2009; 27:432-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2009.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2008] [Revised: 03/19/2009] [Accepted: 03/20/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Kakimoto S, Hamada T, Komatsu Y, Takagi M, Tanabe T, Azuma H, Shinkai S, Nagasaki T. The conjugation of diphtheria toxin T domain to poly(ethylenimine) based vectors for enhanced endosomal escape during gene transfection. Biomaterials 2009; 30:402-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2008.09.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2008] [Accepted: 09/15/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Wright DG, Zhang Y, Murphy JR. Effective delivery of antisense peptide nucleic acid oligomers into cells by anthrax protective antigen. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2008; 376:200-5. [PMID: 18774771 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2008.08.124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2008] [Accepted: 08/26/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Peptide nucleic acid (PNA) is highly stable and binds to complementary RNA and DNA with high affinity, but it resists cellular uptake, thereby limiting its bioavailability. We investigated whether protectiveantigen (PA, a non-toxic component of anthrax toxin) could transport antisense PNA oligomers into reporter cells that contain luciferase transgenes with mutant beta-globin IVS2 intronic inserts, which permit aberrant pre-mRNA splicing and impair luciferase expression. PNA oligomers antisense to mutant splice sites in these IVS2 inserts induced luciferase expression when effectively delivered into the cells. PNA 18-mers with C-terminal poly-lysine tails [PNA(Lys)(8)] demonstrated modest sequence-specific antisense activity by themselves at micromolar concentrations in luc-IVS2 reporter cell cultures. However, this activity was greatly amplified by PA. Antisense PNA(Lys)(8) with but not without PA also corrected the IVS2-654 beta-globin splice defect in cultured erythroid precursor cells from a patient with beta-thalassemia [genotype, IVS2-654(beta(0)/beta(E))], providing further evidence that anthrax PA can effectively transport antisense PNA oligomers into cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel G Wright
- Molecular Medicine Section, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA.
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Small Cleavable Adapters Enhance the Specific Cytotoxicity of a Humanized Immunotoxin Directed Against CD64-positive Cells. J Immunother 2008; 31:370-6. [DOI: 10.1097/cji.0b013e31816a2d23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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22
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Abstract
The blood-brain barrier (BBB), together with the blood-cerebrospinal-fluid barrier, protects and regulates the homeostasis of the brain. However, these barriers also limit the transport of small-molecule and, particularly, biopharmaceutical drugs such as proteins, genes and interference RNA to the brain, thereby limiting the treatment of many brain diseases. As a result, various drug delivery and targeting strategies are currently being developed to enhance the transport and distribution of drugs into the brain. In this review, we discuss briefly the biology and physiology of the BBB as the most important barrier for drug transport to the brain and, in more detail, the possibilities for delivering large-molecule drugs, particularly genes, by receptor-mediated nonviral drug delivery to the (human) brain. In addition, the systemic and intracellular pharmacokinetics of nonviral gene delivery, together with targeted brain imaging, are reviewed briefly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albertus G de Boer
- Blood-Brain-Barrier Research Group, Division of Pharmacology, Leiden-Amsterdam Center for Drug Research, University of Leiden, Leiden, The Netherlands.
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23
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van Lunzen J, Glaunsinger T, Stahmer I, von Baehr V, Baum C, Schilz A, Kuehlcke K, Naundorf S, Martinius H, Hermann F, Giroglou T, Newrzela S, Müller I, Brauer F, Brandenburg G, Alexandrov A, von Laer D. Transfer of Autologous Gene-modified T Cells in HIV-infected Patients with Advanced Immunodeficiency and Drug-resistant Virus. Mol Ther 2007; 15:1024-1033. [PMID: 17356541 DOI: 10.1038/mt.sj.6300124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2006] [Accepted: 01/24/2007] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Drug toxicity and viral resistance limit the long-term efficacy of antiviral drug treatment for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. Thus, alternative therapies need to be explored. We tested the infusion of T lymphocytes transduced with a retroviral vector (M87o) that expresses an HIV entry-inhibitory peptide (maC46). Gene-modified autologous T cells were infused into ten HIV-infected patients with advanced disease and multidrug-resistant virus during anti-retroviral combination therapy. T-cell infusions were tolerated well, with no severe side effects. A significant increase of CD4 counts was observed after infusion. At the end of the 1-year follow-up, the CD4 counts of all patients were still around or above baseline. Gene-modified cells could be detected in peripheral blood, lymph nodes, and bone marrow throughout the 1-year follow-up, and marking levels correlated with the cell dose. No significant changes of viral load were observed during the first 4 months. Four of the seven patients who changed their antiviral drug regimen thereafter responded with a significant decline in plasma viral load. In conclusion, the transfer of gene-modified cells was safe, led to sustained levels of gene marking, and may improve immune competence in HIV-infected patients with advanced disease and multidrug-resistant virus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan van Lunzen
- Infectious Diseases Unit, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.
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Haitao P, Qixin Z, Xiaodong G. A novel synthetic peptide vector system for optimal gene delivery to bone marrow stromal cells. J Pept Sci 2007; 13:154-63. [PMID: 17154339 DOI: 10.1002/psc.826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
A 23-amino acid, bifunctional, integrin-targeted synthetic peptide was evaluated for ex vivo gene delivery to rabbit bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs). The peptide (K)(16)GRGDSPC consists of an amino terminal domain of 16 lysines for electrostatic binding of DNA, and a 7-amino acid integrin-binding domain at the carboxyl terminal. PcDNA3-EGFP plasmids were transfected into BMSCs by (K)(16)GRGDSPC and the positive cells gave out a bright green fluorescence. High levels of gene delivery of pcDNA3-TGF-beta1 plasmids were obtained with 2 to 4 microg/ml DNA concentration, with (K)(16)GRGDSPC at an optimal peptide: DNA w/w ratio of 3:1, with a required exposure time of more than 4 h but shorter than 24 h for BMSC exposure to the peptide/DNA complexes with completely absent serum in the initial stage; with 100 microM chloroquine and at least 8 h exposure for BMSC exposure to chloroquine; with a fusogenic peptide at an optimal (K)(16)GRGDSPC/DNA/fusogenic peptide w/w ratio of 3:1:5; and with Lipofectamine 2000 at an optimal (K)(16)GRGDSPC/DNA/Lipofectamine 2000 w/w ratio of 3:1:2 at a constant DNA concentration of 2 microg/ml. Chloroquine, the fusogenic peptide and Lipofectamine 2000 all significantly promoted gene delivery, but chloroquine was more effective than the fusogenic peptide and had obvious synergistic effects with Lipofectamine 2000. Under optimal conditions, TGF-beta1 gene was transfected into BMSCs without observable toxicity, and the stable expression was examined by RT-PCR and Western blot analysis. The stable transgenic cells showed obvious bands. This novel synthetic peptide, providing a new way for the use of polylysine and RGD motif in DNA vector system, is potentially well suited to ex vivo gene delivery to BMSCs for experimental and clinical applications in the field of bone tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pan Haitao
- Department of Orthopedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
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Hatefi A, Megeed Z, Ghandehari H. Recombinant polymer-protein fusion: a promising approach towards efficient and targeted gene delivery. J Gene Med 2006; 8:468-76. [PMID: 16416505 DOI: 10.1002/jgm.872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Synthetic vectors such as polymers have the potential to reduce the safety problems associated with viral vectors; however, their low transfection efficiency limits their clinical utility. To study the critical steps involved in an efficient transgene expression, there is a need for creative approaches that allow a systematic correlation between gene carrier structure and properties necessary for successful gene transfer. Using recombinant techniques a prototype vector comprised of tandem repeating units fused to a targeting moiety was biosynthesized to mediate gene transfer in mammalian cell lines. The carrier was designed to have the structure of (KHKHKHKHKK)6-FGF2 where lysine (K) residues would allow complexation with plasmid DNA, basic fibroblast growth factor (FGF2) to target cells over-expressing FGF2 receptors (FGFR), and histidine (H) residues to facilitate escape from the endosomal compartments. METHODS The gene carrier was biosynthesized in E. coli, purified using a Ni-NTA column, characterized, complexed with pDNA, and the complexes were used to transfect NIH 3T3, T-47D and COS-1 mammalian cell types known to express FGFR. RESULTS Results demonstrate the successful cloning and expression of the gene carrier with over 95% purity. The molecular weight of the gene carrier was determined by MALDI-TOF to be 27 402. Amino acid content analysis and Western blot confirmed the expression of the gene carrier in E. coli. The vector was able to condense pDNA, induce cell proliferation in NIH 3T3 fibroblasts, and mediate transgene expression in NIH 3T3, T-47D and COS-1 mammalian cell types. CONCLUSION Genetic engineering techniques show promise for systematic investigation of structure-activity relationships of non-viral gene delivery vectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Hatefi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Center for Nanomedicine and Cellular Delivery, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Baltimore, MD 21201-1075, USA
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26
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Tan PH, Chan CLH, George AJT. Strategies to improve non-viral vectors – potential applications in clinical transplantation. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2006; 6:619-30. [PMID: 16706608 DOI: 10.1517/14712598.6.6.619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Prevention of acute rejection has been well controlled with immunosuppressive drugs. However, the long-term control of rejection is less satisfactory and the side effects of chronic usage of these drugs are far from acceptable. Thus, more imaginative options for therapy need to be explored. Gene therapy has potential promise in preserving allografts, preventing rejection and inducing tolerance. Despite this initial promise in many animal models, the translation of gene therapy to the clinical arena has been slow. This may be related in part to the deficiencies in vector development. Existing viral vectors are efficient at transducing allografts, but they induce inflammatory and pathogenic effects. Although the alternative non-viral systems are relatively innocuous, they are less efficient at gene delivery. This review systematically analyses the limitations of non-viral vector technology and the strategies that have been developed to overcome these limitations. Future development of non-viral vectors may have potential application in clinical transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- P H Tan
- Department of Surgery, Oxford Radcliffe Hospitals NHS Trust, Horton Hospital, OX16 9AL, UK.
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Boeckle S, Fahrmeir J, Roedl W, Ogris M, Wagner E. Melittin analogs with high lytic activity at endosomal pH enhance transfection with purified targeted PEI polyplexes. J Control Release 2006; 112:240-8. [PMID: 16545884 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2006.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2005] [Revised: 01/31/2006] [Accepted: 02/06/2006] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Melittin-polyethylenimine (PEI) conjugates have been shown to enhance gene transfer efficiency of polyplexes due to their membrane-destabilizing properties. Inherent lytic activity at neutral pH however also provokes high cytotoxicity due to plasma membrane damage. In order to shift the lytic activity towards the endosomal membrane, several melittin analogs were designed. Acidic modification of melittin by replacing neutral glutamines (Gln-25 and Gln-26) with glutamic acid residues greatly improved the lytic activity of C-terminally linked PEI conjugates at the endosomal pH of 5. This activity correlated well with the gene transfer efficiency of polyplexes in four different cell lines. Melittin-PEI conjugates with high lytic activities at endosomal pH were then incorporated into EGF receptor-targeted and polyethylene glycol-shielded polyplexes. The resulting particles had virus-like dimension (150 nm) with a neutral surface charge and were subsequently purified by size exclusion chromatography to remove unbound toxic PEI conjugate. These purified polyplexes mediated EGF-receptor-specific gene transfer with up to 70-fold higher activity compared to the corresponding PEI polyplexes without melittin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabine Boeckle
- Pharmaceutical Biology-Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Butenandtstr. 5-13, D-81377 Munich, Germany
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28
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Oishi M, Kataoka K, Nagasaki Y. pH-Responsive Three-Layered PEGylated Polyplex Micelle Based on a Lactosylated ABC Triblock Copolymer as a Targetable and Endosome-Disruptive Nonviral Gene Vector. Bioconjug Chem 2006; 17:677-88. [PMID: 16704205 DOI: 10.1021/bc050364m] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Nonviral vectors for gene therapy have recently received an increased impetus because of the inherent safety problems of the viral vectors, while their transfection efficiency is generally low compared to the viral vectors. The lack of the ability to escape from the endosomal compartments is believed to be one of the critical barriers to the intracellular delivery of noviral gene vectors. This study was devoted to the design and preparation of a novel ABC triblock copolymer for constructing a pH-responsive and targetable nonviral gene vector. The copolymer, lactosylated poly(ethylene glycol)-block-poly(silamine)-block-poly[2-(N,N-dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate] (Lac-PEG-PSAO-PAMA), consists of lactosylated poly(ethylene glycol) (A-segment), a pH-responsive polyamine segment (B-segment), and a DNA-condensing polyamine segment (C-segment). The Lac-PEG-PSAO-PAMA spontaneously associated with plasmid DNA (pDNA) to form three-layered polyplex micelles with a PAMA/pDNA polyion complex (PIC) core, an uncomplexed PSAO inner shell, and a lactosylated PEG outer shell, as confirmed by 1H NMR spectroscopy. Under physiological conditions, the Lac-PEG-PSAO-PAMA/pDNA polyplex micelles prepared at an N/P (number of amino groups in the copolymer/number of phosphate groups in pDNA) ratio above 3 were found to be able to condense pDNA, thus adopting a relatively small size (< 150 nm) and an almost neutral surface charge (zeta approximately +5 mV). The micelle underwent a pH-induced size variation (pH = 7.4, 132.6 nm --> pH = 4.0, 181.8 nm) presumably due to the conformational changes (globule-rod transition) of the uncomplexed PSAO chain in response to pH, leading to swelling of the free PSAO inner shell at lowered pH while retaining the condensed pDNA in the PAMA/pDNA PIC core. Furthermore, the micelles exhibited a specific cellular uptake into HuH-7 cells (hepatocytes) through asialoglycoprotein (ASGP) receptor-mediated endocytosis and achieved a far more efficient transfection ability of a reporter gene compared to the Lac-PEG-PSAO/pDNA and Lac-PEG-PAMA/pDNA polyplex micelles composed of the diblock copolymers and pDNA. The effect of hydroxychloroquine as an endosomolytic agent on the transfection efficiency was not observed for the Lac-PEG-PSAO-PAMA/pDNA polyplex micelles, whereas the nigericin treatment of the cell as an inhibitor for the endosomal acidification induced a substantial decrease in the transfection efficiency, suggesting that the protonation of the free PSAO inner shell in response to a pH decrease in the endosome might lead to the disruption of the endosome through buffering of the endosomal cavity. Therefore, the polyplex micelle composed of ABC (ligand-PEG/pH-responsive segment/DNA-condensing segment) triblock copolymer would be a promising approach to a targetable and endosome disruptive nonviral gene vector.
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Affiliation(s)
- Motoi Oishi
- Tsukuba Research Center for Interdisciplinary Materials Science (TIMS), University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Ten-noudai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8573, Japan
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Abstract
Nonviral vectors continue to be attractive alternatives to viruses due to their low toxicity and immunogenicity, lack of pathogenicity, and ease of pharmacologic production. However, nonviral vectors also continue to suffer from relatively low levels of gene transfer compared to viruses, thus the drive to improve these vectors continues. Many studies on vector-cell interactions have reported that nonviral vectors bind and enter cells efficiently, but yield low gene expression, thus directing our attention to the intracellular trafficking of these vectors to understand where the obstacles occur. Here, we will review nonviral vector trafficking pathways, which will be considered here as the steps from cell binding to nuclear delivery. Studies on the intracellular trafficking of nonviral vectors has given us valuable insights into the barriers these vectors must overcome to mediate efficient gene transfer. Importantly, we will highlight the different approaches used by researchers to overcome certain trafficking barriers to gene transfer, many of which incorporate components from biological systems that have naturally evolved the capacity to overcome such obstacles. The tools used to study trafficking pathways will also be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- L K Medina-Kauwe
- Gene Therapeutics Research Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
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30
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Chapter 1 Piercing Lipid Bilayers with Peptides. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2006. [DOI: 10.1016/s1554-4516(06)05001-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register]
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31
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Sloots A, Wels WS. Recombinant derivatives of the human high-mobility group protein HMGB2 mediate efficient nonviral gene delivery. FEBS J 2005; 272:4221-36. [PMID: 16098203 DOI: 10.1111/j.1742-4658.2005.04834.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Certain natural peptides and proteins of mammalian origin are able to bind and condense plasmid DNA, a prerequisite for the formation of transfection-competent complexes that facilitate nonviral gene delivery. Here we have generated recombinant derivatives of the human high-mobility group (HMG) protein HMGB2 and investigated their potential as novel protein-based transfection reagents. A truncated form of HMGB2 encompassing amino acids 1-186 of the molecule was expressed in Escherichia coli at high yield. This HMGB2186 protein purified from bacterial lysates was able to condense plasmid DNA in a concentration-dependent manner, and mediated gene delivery into different established tumor cell lines more efficiently than poly(l-lysine). By attaching, via gene fusion, additional functional domains such as the HIV-1 TAT protein transduction domain (TAT(PTD)-HMGB2186), the nuclear localization sequence of the simian virus 40 (SV40) large T-antigen (SV40(NLS)-HMGB2186), or the importin-beta-binding domain (IBB) of human importin-alpha (IBB-HMGB2186), chimeric fusion proteins were produced which displayed markedly improved transfection efficiency. Addition of chloroquine strongly enhanced gene transfer by all four HMGB2186 derivatives studied, indicating cellular uptake of protein-DNA complexes via endocytosis. The IBB-HMGB2186 molecule in the presence of the endosomolytic reagent was the most effective. Our results show that recombinant derivatives of human HMGB2 facilitate efficient nonviral gene delivery and may become useful reagents for applications in gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arjen Sloots
- Chemotherapeutisches Forschungsinstitut, Georg-Speyer-Haus, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
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Abstract
A number of protein toxins of bacterial and plant origin have cytosolic targets, and knowledge about these toxins have provided us with essential information about mechanisms that can be used to gain access to the cytosol as well as detailed knowledge about endocytosis and intracellular sorting. Such toxins include those that have two moieties, one (the B-moiety) that binds to cell surface receptors and another (the A-moiety) with enzymatic activity that enters the cytosol, as well as molecules that only have the enzymatically active moiety and therefore are inefficient in cell entry. The toxins discussed in the present article include bacterial toxins such as Shiga toxin and diphtheria toxin, as well as plant toxins such as ricin and ribosome-inactivating proteins without a binding moiety, such as gelonin. Toxins with a binding moiety can be used as vectors to translocate epitopes, intact proteins, and even nucleotides into the cytosol. The toxins fall into two main groups when it comes to cytosolic entry. Some toxins enter from endosomes in response to low endosomal pH, whereas others, including Shiga toxin and ricin, are transported all the way to the Golgi apparatus and the ER before they are translocated to the cytosol. Plant proteins such as gelonin that are without a binding moiety are taken up only by fluid-phase endocytosis, and normally they have a low toxicity. However, they can be used to test for disruption of endosomal membranes leading to cytosolic access of internalized molecules. Similarly to toxins with a binding moiety they are highly toxic when reaching the cytosol, thereby providing the investigator with an efficient tool to study endosomal disruption and induced transport to the cytosol. In conclusion, the protein toxins are useful tools to study transport and cytosolic translocation, and they can be used as vectors for transport to the interior of the cell.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Sandvig
- Institute for Cancer Research, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, University of Oslo, Montebello
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Karinaga R, Koumoto K, Mizu M, Anada T, Shinkai S, Sakurai K. PEG-appended beta-(1-->3)-D-glucan schizophyllan to deliver antisense-oligonucleotides with avoiding lysosomal degradation. Biomaterials 2005; 26:4866-73. [PMID: 15763266 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2004.11.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2004] [Accepted: 11/16/2004] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Schizophyllan is a natural beta-(1-->3)-d-glucan existing as a triple helix in water and as a single chain in dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO). As we already reported, when a homo-polynucleotide [e.g., poly(dA) or poly(C)] is added to the schizophyllan/DMSO solution and subsequently DMSO is exchanged for water, the single chain of schizophyllan forms a complex with the polynucleotide. One of the potential applications for this novel complex is an antisense-oligonucleotide (AS ODN) carrier. The present paper describes a modification technique that enabled us to introduce PEG only to the side chain of schizophyllan. This technique consisted of periodate oxidation of the glucose side chain and subsequent reaction between methoxypolyethylene glycol amine and the formyl terminate, followed by reduction with NaBH4. Subsequently, we made a complex from PEG-appended schizophyllan and an AS ODN sequence, and carried out an in vitro antisense assay, administrating the AS ODN complex to depress A375 c-myb mRNA of A375 melanoma cell lines. The PEG-SPG/AS ODN complex showed more enhanced antisnese effect than naked AS ODN dose, i.e., the same level as that of RGD-appended SPG. Here, the RGD system has been shown one on the most effective AS ODN carrier (Science 261 (1993) 1004-1012). When we added nigericin to the assay system, the antisense effect was not affected in the PEG-SPG system, on the other hand, it was almost eliminated in the RGD system. Nigericin is well known to interrupt transport from endosome to lysosome. Therefore, the difference between the PEG and RGD complexes indicates that, in the PEG system, AS ODN was able to escape from lysosomal degradation. The present work has thus proposed a new strategy to delivery AS ODN using schizophyllan as a new carrier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryouji Karinaga
- Department of Chemical Process & Environments, The University of Kitakyushu, 1-1, Hibikino, Wakamatu-ku, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka 808 0135, Japan
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34
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Abstract
Over the past decade, significant research has been done in the area of polymer-mediated gene delivery. Synthesis of new polymers and modifications to existing polymers has resulted in polyplexes with improved in vitro and in vivo transfection efficiencies. Targeting has been an important aspect of this research, and various strategies for obtaining selective and enhanced gene delivery to the target site have been evaluated. This review covers the different aspects involved in polyplex targeting. Development of targeted polyplexes involves a careful consideration of the target site, the targeting ligand and the physicochemical properties of the polyplex itself. The need to redirect the polyplexes by using the 'shield and target' approach by reducing nonspecific interactions with negatively charged components, while conferring specificity by incorporating targeting ligands, is discussed. Basic chemistry involved in modifying polymers is covered and examples of targeting strategies used for tissue-specific gene delivery are discussed. Targeting is also discussed in the broader context of developing safe and effective polymeric vectors for in vivo gene delivery. Maximum benefit of targeting can be obtained when it is used as part of a multi-functional complex containing elements designed to improve gene delivery and reduce overall toxicity of the polyplex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffery A Hughes
- University of Florida, Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, Gainesville, Florida, USA
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35
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Glover DJ, Lipps HJ, Jans DA. Towards safe, non-viral therapeutic gene expression in humans. Nat Rev Genet 2005; 6:299-310. [PMID: 15761468 DOI: 10.1038/nrg1577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 413] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The potential dangers of using viruses to deliver and integrate DNA into host cells in gene therapy have been poignantly highlighted in recent clinical trials. Safer, non-viral gene delivery approaches have been largely ignored in the past because of their inefficient delivery and the resulting transient transgene expression. However, recent advances indicate that efficient, long-term gene expression can be achieved by non-viral means. In particular, integration of DNA can be targeted to specific genomic sites without deleterious consequences and it is possible to maintain transgenes as small episomal plasmids or artificial chromosomes. The application of these approaches to human gene therapy is gradually becoming a reality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominic J Glover
- Nuclear Signalling Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, Victoria 3800, Australia
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36
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Oishi M, Nagasaki Y, Itaka K, Nishiyama N, Kataoka K. Lactosylated poly(ethylene glycol)-siRNA conjugate through acid-labile beta-thiopropionate linkage to construct pH-sensitive polyion complex micelles achieving enhanced gene silencing in hepatoma cells. J Am Chem Soc 2005; 127:1624-5. [PMID: 15700981 DOI: 10.1021/ja044941d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 357] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The remarkably enhanced gene silencing in hepatoma cells was achieved by assembling lactosylated-PEG-siRNA conjugates bearing acid-labile beta-thiopropionate linkages into polyion complex (PIC) micelles through the mixing with poly(l-lysine). The PIC micelles with clustered lactose moieties on the periphery were successfully transported into hepatoma cells in a receptor-mediated manner, releasing hundreds of active siRNA molecules into the cellular interior responding to the pH decrease in the endosomal compartment. Eventually, almost 100 times enhancement in gene silencing activity compared to that of the free conjugate was achieved for the micelle system, facilitating the practical utility of siRNA therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Motoi Oishi
- Department of Materials Science and Technology, Tokyo University of Science, 2641 Yamazaki, Noda, Chiba 278-8510, Japan
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Zeng J, Wang S. Enhanced gene delivery to PC12 cells by a cationic polypeptide. Biomaterials 2005; 26:679-86. [PMID: 15282146 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2004.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2003] [Accepted: 03/13/2004] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Targeted gene delivery to diseased subtypes of neurons will be beneficial to the success of gene therapy of neurological disorders. We designed a recombinant cationic polypeptide to facilitate gene delivery to neuronal-like PC12 cells that express the nerve growth factor (NGF) receptors. The recombinant polypeptide was composed of a targeting moiety derived from loop 4-containing hairpin motif of NGF and a DNA-binding moiety of 10-lysine sequence and expressed in Escherichia coli. It activated NGF receptor, TrkA and its downstream signaling pathways in PC12 and promoted the survival of neuronally differentiated PC12 cells deprived of serum. The polypeptide could also bind plasmid DNA and enhance polycation-mediated gene delivery in NGF receptor-expressing PC12 cells, but not in COS7 cells lacking NGF receptors. The enhancement of gene transfer in PC12 was inhibited by pretreatment of free, unbound polypeptides, suggesting a NGF-receptor-specific effect of the polypeptide. These observations demonstrated the concept of using receptor-mediated mechanism for targeted gene delivery to neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jieming Zeng
- Institute of Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, IMRE Building, 3 Research Link, Singapore 117602, Singapore
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Boeckle S, Wagner E, Ogris M. C- versus N-terminally linked melittin-polyethylenimine conjugates: the site of linkage strongly influences activity of DNA polyplexes. J Gene Med 2005; 7:1335-47. [PMID: 15945120 DOI: 10.1002/jgm.783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND One major barrier limiting the transfection efficiency of polyplexes is poor endosomal release, especially when small particles are applied. In an approach to overcome this barrier, covalent attachment of the membrane-active peptide all-(L)-melittin to polyethylenimine (PEI) polyplexes was found to enhance gene transfer efficiency. METHODS The N-terminus of natural all-(L)- or non-immunogenic all-(D)-melittin was covalently coupled to PEI. In addition, two different all-(D)-melittin conjugates were synthesized, with PEI covalently attached to either the C-terminus (C-mel-PEI) or the N-terminus of melittin (N-mel-PEI). Melittin-PEI polyplexes with particle sizes < 150 nm were generated in HEPES-buffered glucose and tested in transfection experiments. The membrane lytic activities of conjugates and polyplexes were analyzed at neutral and endosomal pH. RESULTS All-(D)-melittin conjugates mediated enhanced gene expression similar to the natural all-(L)-stereoisomer, with up to 160-fold higher luciferase activity than unmodified PEI. The site of melittin linkage strongly influenced the membrane-destabilizing activities of both conjugates and polyplexes. C-mel-PEI was highly lytic at neutral pH and therefore elevated doses of C-mel-PEI polyplexes induced high toxicity. In contrast, N-mel-PEI was less lytic at neutral pH but retained higher lytic activity than C-mel-PEI at endosomal pH. This apparently promoted better endosomal release of N-mel-PEI polyplexes resulting in efficient gene delivery in different cell lines. CONCLUSIONS The high potency of C-mel-PEI to destabilize membranes at neutral pH is presumably due to a reported destabilization mechanism proceeding through membrane insertion of the peptide. In contrast, N-mel-PEI is supposed to induce lysis by insertion-independent pore formation according to the toroidal pore model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabine Boeckle
- Pharmaceutical Biology-Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Butenandtstr. 5-13, D-81377 Munich, Germany.
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Mastrobattista E, Bravo SA, van der Aa M, Crommelin DJA. Nonviral gene delivery systems: From simple transfection agents to artificial viruses. DRUG DISCOVERY TODAY. TECHNOLOGIES 2005; 2:103-109. [PMID: 24981762 DOI: 10.1016/j.ddtec.2005.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
The introduction of nucleic acids into cells for therapeutic intervention is greatly impeded by the size and charge of these molecules and therefore requires sophisticated vectors that facilitate cellular uptake. Both viral and nonviral vectors have been developed for this purpose, each with their own advantages and shortcomings. The engineering of artificial viruses by dismantling virus particles or incorporating viral features into nonviral vectors represents a novel strategy to combine "the best of both worlds".:
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrico Mastrobattista
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences (UIPS), Utrecht University, P.O. Box 80082, 3508 TB Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - Silvina A Bravo
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences (UIPS), Utrecht University, P.O. Box 80082, 3508 TB Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Marieke van der Aa
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences (UIPS), Utrecht University, P.O. Box 80082, 3508 TB Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Daan J A Crommelin
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences (UIPS), Utrecht University, P.O. Box 80082, 3508 TB Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Wagner E, Culmsee C, Boeckle S. Targeting of Polyplexes: Toward Synthetic Virus Vector Systems. ADVANCES IN GENETICS 2005; 53PA:333-354. [PMID: 16243070 DOI: 10.1016/s0065-2660(05)53013-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Dominating issues in gene vector optimization are specific in recognizing the target cells and exploiting the proper intracellular trafficking routes. Any progress in this area will result in improved specific gene transfer, reduce the required therapeutic vector doses and, in consequence, lower the overall toxicity to the host. To provide polyplexes with the ability to distinguish between non-target and target cells, cell-binding ligands have been incorporated which recognize target-specific cellular receptors. In addition, polyplex domains with unspecific binding capacity (such as surface charges) have to be shielded or removed. Cell-binding ligands can be small molecules, vitamins, carbohydrates, peptides or proteins such as growth factors or antibodies. Such ligands have been incorporated into polyplexes after chemical conjugation to cationic polymers. The choice of the ligand and physical properties of the DNA formulation strongly influence extracellular routing (circulation in blood, tissue distribution), uptake and intracellular delivery of polyplexes. Recent efforts are discussed that aim at the development of polyplexes into virus-like supramolecular complexes; such particles should undergo structural changes compatible with extracellular and intracellular targeting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ernst Wagner
- Pharmaceutical Biology ‐ Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy, Ludwig‐Maximilians‐Universitaet Muenchen, Butenandtstr. 5‐13, D‐81377 Munich, Germany
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41
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Abstract
Despite the recognized potential of viral vectors for gene therapy, growing biological concerns are prompting the exploration of safer, non-viral vectors to deliver therapeutic nucleic acids. In this context, recombinant proteins can be bioproduced on a large scale, without the need for further in vitro modifications, being free of known or suspected biohazards. For these vehicles to act as efficient gene-delivery devices, they must perform relevant functions that mimic those of viruses; namely, nucleic acid condensation, targeted cell attachment and internalization, endosomal escape and nuclear transfer. Modular engineering enables the construction of chimeric polypeptides in which selected domains, potentially from different origins, provide the required activities. An equilibrate combination and spatial distribution of such partner elements has generated promising prototypes, able to deliver expressible DNA to tissue culture but also to specific cell-types in whole organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Arís
- Institut de Biotecnologia i de Biomedicina and Departament de Genètica i de Microbiologia, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, 08193 Barcelona, Spain
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Rosenkranz AA, Lunin VG, Gulak PV, Sergienko OV, Shumiantseva MA, Voronina OL, Gilyazova DG, John AP, Kofner AA, Mironov AF, Jans DA, Sobolev AS. Recombinant modular transporters for cell-specific nuclear delivery of locally acting drugs enhance photosensitizer activity. FASEB J 2003; 17:1121-3. [PMID: 12692081 DOI: 10.1096/fj.02-0888fje] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The search for new pharmaceuticals that are specific for diseased rather than normal cells in the case of cancer and viral disease has raised interest in locally acting drugs that act over short distances within the cell and for which different cell compartments have distinct sensitivities. Thus, photosensitizers (PSs) used in anti-cancer therapy should ideally be transported to the most sensitive subcellular compartments in order for their action to be most pronounced. Here we describe the design, production, and characterization of the effects of bacterially expressed modular recombinant transporters for PSs comprising 1) alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone as an internalizable, cell-specific ligand; 2) an optimized nuclear localization sequence of the SV40 large T-antigen; 3) an Escherichia coli hemoglobin-like protein as a carrier; and 4) an endosomolytic amphipathic polypeptide, the translocation domain of diphtheria toxin. These modular transporters delivered PSs into the nuclei, the most vulnerable sites for the action of PSs, of murine melanoma cells, but not non-MSH receptor-overexpressing cells, to result in cytotoxic effects several orders of magnitude greater than those of nonmodified PSs. The modular fusion proteins described here for the first time, capable of cell-specific targeting to particular subcellular compartments to increase drug efficacy, represent new pharmaceuticals with general application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrey A Rosenkranz
- Department of Molecular Genetics of Intracellular Transport, Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 34/5 Vavilov St., 119334, Moscow, Russia
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Abstract
Safe, efficient, and specific delivery of therapeutic genes remains an important bottleneck for the development of gene therapy. Synthetic, nonviral systems have a unique pharmaceutical profile with potential advantages for certain applications. Targeting of the synthetic vector improves the specificity of gene medicines through a modulation of the carriers' biodistribution, thus creating a dose differential between healthy tissue and the target site. The biodistribution of current carrier systems is being influenced to a large extent by intrinsic physicochemical characteristics, such as charge and size. Consequently, such nonspecific interactions can interfere with specific targeting, for example, by ligands. Therefore, a carrier complex should ideally be inert, that is, free from intrinsic properties that would bias its distribution away from the target site. Strategies such as coating of DNA carrier complexes with hydrophilic polymers have been used to mask some of these intrinsic targeting effects and avoid nonspecific interactions. Preexisting endogenous ligand-receptor interactions have frequently been used for targeting to certain cell types or tumours. Recently exogenous ligands have been derived from microorganisms or, like antibodies or phage-derived peptides, developed de novo. In animal models, such synthetic vectors have targeted remote sites such as a tumour. Furthermore, the therapeutic proof of the concept has been demonstrated for fitting combinations of synthetic vectors and therapeutic gene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas G. Schätzlein
- Cancer Research UK Department of Medical Oncology, Beatson Laboratories, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK
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Chenal A, Nizard P, Gillet D. STRUCTURE AND FUNCTION OF DIPHTHERIA TOXIN: FROM PATHOLOGY TO ENGINEERING. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2002. [DOI: 10.1081/txr-120014408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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Gaur R, Gupta PK, Goyal A, Wels W, Singh Y. Delivery of nucleic acid into mammalian cells by anthrax toxin. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2002; 297:1121-7. [PMID: 12372402 DOI: 10.1016/s0006-291x(02)02299-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Gene delivery vehicles based on receptor-mediated endocytosis offer an attractive long-term solution as they might overcome the limitations of toxicity and cargo capacity inherent to many viral gene delivery systems. The protective antigen component of anthrax toxin bind to specific receptors and deliver lethal factor or edema factor into the cytosol of mammalian cells. The N-terminal 254 amino acids of LF (LF(1-254)) binds to PA and, when fused to heterologous proteins, delivers such proteins into the cytosol. However, so far no attempt has been made to use the anthrax toxin system for the intracellular delivery of DNA. In the present study, LF(1-254) of anthrax toxin was fused to the DNA-binding domain of GAL4 protein. The fusion protein (LF(254)-GAL4DBD) showed both PA binding as well as DNA-binding activity in solution. The complex of fusion protein with plasmid DNA containing a reporter gene (luciferase or green fluorescent protein) along with PA delivered plasmid DNA into the cytosol of COS-1 cells. These results suggest that anthrax toxin components can be used as a non-viral system for the efficient delivery of DNA into the cytosol of mammalian cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reetika Gaur
- Centre for Biochemical Technology, Mall Road, Near Jubilee Hall, 110 007, Delhi, India
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Lim YB, Kim SM, Suh H, Park JS. Biodegradable, endosome disruptive, and cationic network-type polymer as a highly efficient and nontoxic gene delivery carrier. Bioconjug Chem 2002; 13:952-7. [PMID: 12236776 DOI: 10.1021/bc025541n] [Citation(s) in RCA: 156] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The success of gene therapy is largely dependent on the delivery vector system. Efficient transfection and nontoxicity are two of the most important requirements of an ideal gene delivery vector. To generate both an efficient and nontoxic vector, we rationally constructed polymeric vectors to have simultaneous multiple functions, i.e., controlled degradation, an endosome disruptive function, and positive charges. Remarkably, the transfection efficiency of network poly(amino ester) (n-PAE) synthesized in this manner was comparable to that of polyethylenimine (PEI), one of the most efficient polymeric gene delivery vectors reported to date. However, there was a marked difference in cytotoxicity between the polymers. The majority of PEI-transfected cells were granulated and dead, whereas most of the cells transfected with n-PAE were viable and healthy. Successive events of efficient endosome escape of n-PAE/DNA polyplex and n-PAE biodegradation should result in high transfection efficiency and favorable cell viability response. The n-PAE-mediated transfection was also very efficient in the presence of serum. These data show that the approach we applied is a very appropriate way of making an ideal gene delivery carrier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong-beom Lim
- School of Chemistry & Molecular Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul 151-742, Korea
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Barati S, Chegini F, Hurtado P, Rush RA. Hybrid tetanus toxin C fragment-diphtheria toxin translocation domain allows specific gene transfer into PC12 cells. Exp Neurol 2002; 177:75-87. [PMID: 12429212 DOI: 10.1006/exnr.2002.7999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
To study the mechanism by which genes can efficiently be transferred into specific cell types, we have constructed several novel, single-chain multicomponent proteins by recombining the nontoxic C fragment of tetanus toxin and the translocation domain of diphtheria toxin together with the DNA-binding fragment of GAL4 transcription factor, for transportation of plasmid DNA into neuronal cells. The C fragment of tetanus toxin provided neuronal selectivity, the translocation domain of diphtheria toxin permitted endosomal escape, and the GAL4 domain provided binding to DNA. To assess the cellular tasks of each component in gene transfer, different combinations of these fragments were produced by polymerase chain reaction, expressed in Escherichia coli, and purified under native conditions from the soluble proteins. We show that only fusion proteins bearing the C fragment of tetanus toxin bind to gangliosides and, followed by their specific binding to differentiated PC12 cells, are internalized within 10 min. These proteins delivered the green fluorescence protein gene to PC12 cells, with the highest transfection efficiency achieved with proteins containing both the C fragment and the translocation domain. Addition of chloroquine elevated the transfection efficiency, which was further increased by incorporation of a nuclear localization signal in the delivery system. In addition, the effect of different DNA-condensing materials (poly-L-lysine, protamine, lysine(n=8)-trytophan(n=2)-lysine(n=8)) on gene transfer was investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahram Barati
- Department of Human Physiology, Centre for Neuroscience, Flinders Medical Research Institute, Flinders University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia.
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48
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Abstract
Summary Gene therapy involves the introduction of DNA-encoding therapeutic gene products into appropriate cells of an affected individual. The limitations of the approach relate largely to the poor efficiency of the delivery of the therapeutic DNA to the nucleus. This review examines recent work in the area of non-viral gene transfer, building on developments in the field of nuclear protein import and their application in the field of non-viral gene transfer. In particular, advances in the area of enhancing DNA targeting to the nucleus are discussed, including the use of modular nuclear targeting signals recognised by the cellular nuclear import machinery and DNA condensing agents to facilitate passage through the nuclear pore. Optimising nuclear DNA delivery through these and other strategies should assist greatly in rendering gene therapy a viable and realistic possibility for treating disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chee-Kai Chan
- Nuclear Signalling Laboratory, Division for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
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49
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Andree C, Voigt M, Wenger A, Erichsen T, Bittner K, Schaefer D, Walgenbach KJ, Borges J, Horch RE, Eriksson E, Stark GB. Plasmid gene delivery to human keratinocytes through a fibrin-mediated transfection system. TISSUE ENGINEERING 2001; 7:757-66. [PMID: 11749732 DOI: 10.1089/107632701753337708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
We have developed a matrix-mediated transfection system to deliver plasmids to human keratinocytes. The matrix is a soluble, self-hardening fibrin matrix (Tissucol), Baxter) that has been used clinically. Recently it has been shown that full thickness burn wounds can be successfully treated with a keratinocyte fibrin glue suspension. Further, it has been demonstrated that hEGF transfected cells accelerate wound healing. In this study, we inoculated the matrix with the hEGF expression plasmid and resuspended the matrix with either cultured or noncultured human keratinocytes. We obtained successful transfection rates of these cells (up to a 100-fold increase compared to controls containing no EGF expression plasmid) in vitro. After transplantation to full thickness wounds on athymic mice we were able to show a 180-fold increase in EGF concentration compared to controls, which persisted over the entire 7-day monitored period, decreasing from 180 to 20 pg/mL at day seven. This unique approach indicates the possible utility to combine a matrix for cell transplantation with a transfection system to release therapeutic proteins in vitro and in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Andree
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University Hospital Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.
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Medina-Kauwe LK, Maguire M, Kasahara N, Kedes L. Nonviral gene delivery to human breast cancer cells by targeted Ad5 penton proteins. Gene Ther 2001; 8:1753-61. [PMID: 11803394 DOI: 10.1038/sj.gt.3301583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2001] [Accepted: 08/31/2001] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The capsid proteins of adenovirus serotype 5 (Ad5) are key to the virus' highly efficient cell binding and entry mechanism. In particular, the penton base plays a significant role in both viral internalization and endosome penetration. We have produced an adenovirus penton fusion protein (HerPBK10) containing moieties for DNA transport and targeted delivery to breast cancer cells. HerPBK10 binds DNA through a polylysine appendage, while the EGF-like domain of the heregulin-alpha(1) isoform is used as the targeting ligand. This ligand binds with high affinity to HER2/3 or HER2/4 heterodimers, which are overexpressed on certain aggressive breast cancers. In addition, this ligand is rapidly internalized after binding, thus adding to the utility of heregulin for targeting. HerPBK10 binds MDA-MB-453 breast cancer cells in a receptor-specific manner, and mediates the entry of a reporter plasmid in MDA-MB-453 cells in culture. Delivery can be competed by excess heregulin peptide, thus confirming receptor specificity. Importantly, the penton segment appears to contribute significantly to enhanced delivery. Complexes containing HerPBK10 and DNA have been optimized to provide targeted gene delivery to breast cancer cells in vitro. We demonstrate that delivery can be accomplished in the presence of serum, thus suggesting a potential use for in vivo delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- L K Medina-Kauwe
- Institute for Genetic Medicine and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
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