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Seah I, Goh D, Banerjee A, Su X. Modeling inherited retinal diseases using human induced pluripotent stem cell derived photoreceptor cells and retinal pigment epithelial cells. Front Med (Lausanne) 2024; 11:1328474. [PMID: 39011458 PMCID: PMC11246861 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1328474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Since the discovery of induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technology, there have been many attempts to create cellular models of inherited retinal diseases (IRDs) for investigation of pathogenic processes to facilitate target discovery and validation activities. Consistency remains key in determining the utility of these findings. Despite the importance of consistency, quality control metrics are still not widely used. In this review, a toolkit for harnessing iPSC technology to generate photoreceptor, retinal pigment epithelial cell, and organoid disease models is provided. Considerations while developing iPSC-derived IRD models such as iPSC origin, reprogramming methods, quality control metrics, control strategies, and differentiation protocols are discussed. Various iPSC IRD models are dissected and the scientific hurdles of iPSC-based disease modeling are discussed to provide an overview of current methods and future directions in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan Seah
- Translational Retinal Research Laboratory, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Ophthalmology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Debbie Goh
- Department of Ophthalmology, National University Hospital (NUH), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Animesh Banerjee
- Translational Retinal Research Laboratory, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Xinyi Su
- Translational Retinal Research Laboratory, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Ophthalmology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Ophthalmology, National University Hospital (NUH), Singapore, Singapore
- Singapore Eye Research Institute (SERI), Singapore, Singapore
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2
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Miskalis A, Shirguppe S, Winter J, Elias G, Swami D, Nambiar A, Stilger M, Woods WS, Gosstola N, Gapinske M, Zeballos A, Moore H, Maslov S, Gaj T, Perez-Pinera P. SPLICER: A Highly Efficient Base Editing Toolbox That Enables In Vivo Therapeutic Exon Skipping. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.04.01.587650. [PMID: 38883727 PMCID: PMC11178003 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.01.587650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
Exon skipping technologies enable exclusion of targeted exons from mature mRNA transcripts, which has broad applications in molecular biology, medicine, and biotechnology. Existing exon skipping techniques include antisense oligonucleotides, targetable nucleases, and base editors, which, while effective for specific applications at some target exons, remain hindered by shortcomings, including transient effects for oligonucleotides, genotoxicity for nucleases and inconsistent exon skipping for base editors. To overcome these limitations, we created SPLICER, a toolbox of next-generation base editors consisting of near-PAMless Cas9 nickase variants fused to adenosine or cytosine deaminases for the simultaneous editing of splice acceptor (SA) and splice donor (SD) sequences. Synchronized SA and SD editing with SPLICER improves exon skipping, reduces aberrant outcomes, including cryptic splicing and intron retention, and enables skipping of exons refractory to single splice-site editing. To demonstrate the therapeutic potential of SPLICER, we targeted APP exon 17, which encodes the amino acid residues that are cleaved to form the Aβ plaques in Alzheimer's disease. SPLICER reduced the formation of Aβ42 peptides in vitro and enabled efficient exon skipping in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease. Overall, SPLICER is a widely applicable and efficient toolbox for exon skipping with broad therapeutic applications.
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3
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Appell MB, Pejavar J, Pasupathy A, Rompicharla SVK, Abbasi S, Malmberg K, Kolodziejski P, Ensign LM. Next generation therapeutics for retinal neurodegenerative diseases. J Control Release 2024; 367:708-736. [PMID: 38295996 PMCID: PMC10960710 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.01.063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/28/2024] [Indexed: 02/13/2024]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases affecting the visual system encompass glaucoma, macular degeneration, retinopathies, and inherited genetic disorders such as retinitis pigmentosa. These ocular pathologies pose a serious burden of visual impairment and blindness worldwide. Current treatment modalities include small molecule drugs, biologics, or gene therapies, most of which are administered topically as eye drops or as injectables. However, the topical route of administration faces challenges in effectively reaching the posterior segment and achieving desired concentrations at the target site, while injections and implants risk severe complications, such as retinal detachment and endophthalmitis. This necessitates the development of innovative therapeutic strategies that can prolong drug release, deliver effective concentrations to the back of the eye with minimal systemic exposure, and improve patient compliance and safety. In this review, we introduce retinal degenerative diseases, followed by a discussion of the existing clinical standard of care. We then delve into detail about drug and gene delivery systems currently in preclinical and clinical development, including formulation and delivery advantages/drawbacks, with a special emphasis on potential for clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew B Appell
- Center for Nanomedicine at the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - Jahnavi Pejavar
- Center for Nanomedicine at the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - Ashwin Pasupathy
- Center for Nanomedicine at the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - Sri Vishnu Kiran Rompicharla
- Center for Nanomedicine at the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - Saed Abbasi
- Center for Nanomedicine at the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - Kiersten Malmberg
- Center for Nanomedicine at the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - Patricia Kolodziejski
- Center for Nanomedicine at the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - Laura M Ensign
- Center for Nanomedicine at the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Departments of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Biomedical Engineering, Oncology, and Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA.
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4
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Kolvenbach CM, Shril S, Hildebrandt F. The genetics and pathogenesis of CAKUT. Nat Rev Nephrol 2023; 19:709-720. [PMID: 37524861 DOI: 10.1038/s41581-023-00742-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023]
Abstract
Congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract (CAKUT) comprise a large variety of malformations that arise from defective kidney or urinary tract development and frequently lead to kidney failure. The clinical spectrum ranges from severe malformations, such as renal agenesis, to potentially milder manifestations, such as vesicoureteral reflux. Almost 50% of cases of chronic kidney disease that manifest within the first three decades of life are caused by CAKUT. Evidence suggests that a large number of CAKUT are genetic in origin. To date, mutations in ~54 genes have been identified as monogenic causes of CAKUT, contributing to 12-20% of the aetiology of the disease. Pathogenic copy number variants have also been shown to cause CAKUT and can be detected in 4-11% of patients. Furthermore, environmental and epigenetic factors can increase the risk of CAKUT. The discovery of novel CAKUT-causing genes is challenging owing to variable expressivity, incomplete penetrance and variable genotype-phenotype correlation. However, such a discovery could ultimately lead to improvements in the accurate molecular genetic diagnosis, assessment of prognosis and multidisciplinary clinical management of patients with CAKUT, potentially including personalized therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline M Kolvenbach
- Department of Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Shirlee Shril
- Department of Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Friedhelm Hildebrandt
- Department of Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
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5
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Lozano B LL, Cervantes A LA. Development of experimental treatments for patients with retinitis pigmentosa. ARCHIVOS DE LA SOCIEDAD ESPANOLA DE OFTALMOLOGIA 2023; 98:646-655. [PMID: 37640142 DOI: 10.1016/j.oftale.2023.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is a group of inherited diseases that lead to degeneration of the retina and decreased vision. The World Health Organization reports around 1,300 million people affected by some type of visual impairment worldwide. The prevalence is 1 in every 4000 inhabitants and it is the first cause of blindness of genetic origin, frequent in men with a percentage of 60% and 40% in women. There is a lack of information on this pathology in the world, mainly on the existing treatments for this disease, so this bibliographic review aims to update the existing or under-study treatments and inform the limitations of each of these therapies. This review of scientific literature was carried out by consulting databases such as PubMed and Web of science, the search will be limited to articles from the years 2018-2022. There are several types of therapy in studies: gene therapy, transcorneal electrical stimulation, use of neuroprotectors, optogenic therapy, stem cell transplants and oligonucleotide therapy, which will be discussed in this article, both their benefits and the existing barriers in each treatment experimental. In conclusion, each of these therapies promises a viable treatment in the future for selective groups of people with retinitis pigmentosa, however, some therapies have shown benefit at the beginning of the disease, losing their efficacy in the long term.
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Affiliation(s)
- L L Lozano B
- Universidad Católica de Cuenca, Cuenca, Ecuador.
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Zeng S, Chen Y, Zhou F, Zhang T, Fan X, Chrzanowski W, Gillies MC, Zhu L. Recent advances and prospects for lipid-based nanoparticles as drug carriers in the treatment of human retinal diseases. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2023; 199:114965. [PMID: 37315899 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2023.114965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The delivery of cures for retinal diseases remains problematic. There are four main challenges: passing through multiple barriers of the eye, the delivery to particular retinal cell types, the capability to carry different forms of therapeutic cargo and long-term therapeutic efficacy. Lipid-based nanoparticles (LBNPs) are potent to overcome these challenges due to their unique merits: amphiphilic nanoarchitectures to pass biological barriers, vary modifications with specific affinity to target cell types, flexible capacity for large and mixed types of cargos and slow-release formulations for long-term treatment. We have reviewed the latest research on the applications of LBNPs for treating retinal diseases and categorized them by different payloads. Furthermore, we identified technical barriers and discussed possible future development for LBNPs to expand the therapeutic potential in treating retinal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaoxue Zeng
- Macula Research Group, Save Sight Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Yingying Chen
- Macula Research Group, Save Sight Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia; Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Fanfan Zhou
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Ting Zhang
- Macula Research Group, Save Sight Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Xiaohui Fan
- Pharmaceutical Informatics Institute, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
| | | | - Mark C Gillies
- Macula Research Group, Save Sight Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Ling Zhu
- Macula Research Group, Save Sight Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia.
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Areblom M, Kjellström S, Andréasson S, Öhberg A, Gränse L, Kjellström U. A Description of the Yield of Genetic Reinvestigation in Patients with Inherited Retinal Dystrophies and Previous Inconclusive Genetic Testing. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:1413. [PMID: 37510321 PMCID: PMC10379620 DOI: 10.3390/genes14071413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
In the present era of evolving gene-based therapies for inherited retinal dystrophies (IRDs), it has become increasingly important to verify the genotype in every case, to identify all subjects eligible for treatment. Moreover, combined insight concerning phenotypes and genotypes is crucial for improved understanding of thevisual impairment, prognosis, and inheritance. The objective of this study was to investigate to what extent renewed comprehensive genetic testing of patients diagnosed with IRD but with previously inconclusive DNA test results can verify the genotype, if confirmation of the genotype has an impact on the understanding of the clinical picture, and, to describe the genetic spectrum encountered in a Swedish IRD cohort. The study included 279 patients from the retinitis pigmentosa research registry (comprising diagnosis within the whole IRD spectrum), hosted at the Department of Ophthalmology, Skåne University hospital, Sweden. The phenotypes had already been evaluated with electrophysiology and other clinical tests, e.g., visual acuity, Goldmann perimetry, and fundus imaging at the first visit, sometime between 1988-2015 and the previous-in many cases, multiple-genetic testing, performed between 1995 and 2020 had been inconclusive. All patients were aged 0-25 years at the time of their first visit. Renewed genetic testing was performed using a next generation sequencing (NGS) IRD panel including 322 genes (Blueprint Genetics). Class 5 and 4 variants, according to ACMG guidelines, were considered pathogenic. Of the 279 samples tested, a confirmed genotype was determined in 182 (65%). The cohort was genetically heterogenous, including 65 different genes. The most prevailing were ABCA4 (16.5%), RPGR (6%), CEP290 (6%), and RS1 (5.5%). Other prevalent genes were CACNA1F (3%), PROM1 (3%), CHM (3%), and NYX (3%). In 7% of the patients there was a discrepancy between the diagnosis made based on phenotypical or genotypical findings alone. To conclude, repeated DNA-analysis was beneficial also in previously tested patients and improved our ability to verify the genotype-phenotype association increasing the understanding of how visual impairment manifests, prognosis, and the inheritance pattern. Moreover, repeated testing using a widely available method could identify additional patients eligible for future gene-based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Areblom
- Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Lund University, Skane University Hospital, 221 85 Lund, Sweden
| | | | - Sten Andréasson
- Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Lund University, Skane University Hospital, 221 85 Lund, Sweden
| | | | - Lotta Gränse
- Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Lund University, Skane University Hospital, 221 85 Lund, Sweden
| | - Ulrika Kjellström
- Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Lund University, Skane University Hospital, 221 85 Lund, Sweden
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Schellens RT, Broekman S, Peters T, Graave P, Malinar L, Venselaar H, Kremer H, De Vrieze E, Van Wijk E. A protein domain-oriented approach to expand the opportunities of therapeutic exon skipping for USH2A-associated retinitis pigmentosa. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2023; 32:980-994. [PMID: 37313440 PMCID: PMC10258241 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2023.05.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Loss-of-function mutations in USH2A are among the most common causes of syndromic and non-syndromic retinitis pigmentosa (RP). We previously presented skipping of USH2A exon 13 as a promising treatment paradigm for USH2A-associated RP. However, RP-associated mutations are often private, and evenly distributed along the USH2A gene. In order to broaden the group of patients that could benefit from therapeutic exon skipping strategies, we expanded our approach to other USH2A exons in which unique loss-of-function mutations have been reported by implementing a protein domain-oriented dual exon skipping strategy. We first generated zebrafish mutants carrying a genomic deletion of the orthologous exons of the frequently mutated human USH2A exons 30-31 or 39-40 using CRISPR-Cas9. Excision of these in-frame combinations of exons restored usherin expression in the zebrafish retina and rescued the photopigment mislocalization typically observed in ush2a mutants. To translate these findings into a future treatment in humans, we employed in vitro assays to identify and validate antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) with a high potency for sequence-specific dual exon skipping. Together, the in vitro and in vivo data demonstrate protein domain-oriented ASO-induced dual exon skipping to be a highly promising treatment option for RP caused by mutations in USH2A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renske T.W. Schellens
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Hearing and Genes, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525GA Nijmegen, the Netherlands
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, 6500 GL Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Sanne Broekman
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Hearing and Genes, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525GA Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Theo Peters
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Hearing and Genes, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525GA Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Pam Graave
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Lucija Malinar
- Center for Molecular and Biomolecular Informatics, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Hanka Venselaar
- Center for Molecular and Biomolecular Informatics, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Hannie Kremer
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Hearing and Genes, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525GA Nijmegen, the Netherlands
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, 6500 GL Nijmegen, the Netherlands
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Erik De Vrieze
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Hearing and Genes, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525GA Nijmegen, the Netherlands
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, 6500 GL Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Erwin Van Wijk
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Hearing and Genes, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525GA Nijmegen, the Netherlands
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, 6500 GL Nijmegen, the Netherlands
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Bellingrath JS, McClements ME, Fischer MD, MacLaren RE. Programmable RNA editing with endogenous ADAR enzymes - a feasible option for the treatment of inherited retinal disease? Front Mol Neurosci 2023; 16:1092913. [PMID: 37293541 PMCID: PMC10244592 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2023.1092913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023] Open
Abstract
RNA editing holds great promise for the therapeutic correction of pathogenic, single nucleotide variants (SNV) in the human transcriptome since it does not risk creating permanent off-targets edits in the genome and has the potential for innovative delivery options. Adenine deaminases acting on RNA (ADAR) enzymes catalyse the most widespread form of posttranscriptional RNA editing in humans and their ability to hydrolytically deaminate adenosine to inosine in double stranded RNA (dsRNA) has been harnessed to change pathogenic single nucleotide variants (SNVs) in the human genome on a transcriptional level. Until now, the most promising target editing rates have been achieved by exogenous delivery of the catalytically active ADAR deaminase domain (ADARDD) fused to an RNA binding protein. While it has been shown that endogenous ADARs can be recruited to a defined target site with the sole help of an ADAR-recruiting guide RNA, thus freeing up packaging space, decreasing the chance of an immune response against a foreign protein, and decreasing transcriptome-wide off-target effects, this approach has been limited by a low editing efficiency. Through the recent development of novel circular ADAR-recruiting guide RNAs as well as the optimisation of ADAR-recruiting antisense oligonucleotides, RNA editing with endogenous ADAR is now showing promising target editing efficiency in vitro and in vivo. A target editing efficiency comparable to RNA editing with exogenous ADAR was shown both in wild-type and disease mouse models as well as in wild-type non-human primates (NHP) immediately following and up to 6 weeks after application. With these encouraging results, RNA editing with endogenous ADAR has the potential to present an attractive option for the treatment of inherited retinal diseases (IRDs), a field where gene replacement therapy has been established as safe and efficacious, but where an unmet need still exists for genes that exceed the packaging capacity of an adeno associated virus (AAV) or are expressed in more than one retinal isoform. This review aims to give an overview of the recent developments in the field of RNA editing with endogenous ADAR and assess its applicability for the field of treatment of IRD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia-Sophia Bellingrath
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Michelle E. McClements
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - M. Dominik Fischer
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Robert E. MacLaren
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
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Justin GA, Girach A, Maldonado RS. Antisense oligonucleotide therapy for proline-23-histidine autosomal dominant retinitis pigmentosa. Curr Opin Ophthalmol 2023; 34:226-231. [PMID: 36924362 DOI: 10.1097/icu.0000000000000947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To discuss antisense oligonucleotide (ASON) therapy for autosomal dominant retinitis pigmentosa (adRP) caused by the proline-23-histidine (P23H) mutation in the rhodopsin gene. RECENT FINDINGS Viral and nonviral therapies to treat adRP are currently under investigation. A promising therapeutic option is a nonviral approach using ASONs. This form of genetic therapy has demonstrated a dose-dependent and highly selective reduction of P23H mutant rhodopsin mRNA in animal models, and it is currently being investigated as a human phase 1/2 clinical trial. SUMMARY There are promising new therapies to treat adRP. ASON has shown encouraging results in animal models and has undergone a phase 1 clinical trial. ASON does not use a viral vector, is delivered with standard intravitreal injection, and its effects are reversible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grant A Justin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | | | - Ramiro S Maldonado
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
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Wang J, Su W, Zhang T, Zhang S, Lei H, Ma F, Shi M, Shi W, Xie X, Di C. Aberrant Cyclin D1 splicing in cancer: from molecular mechanism to therapeutic modulation. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:244. [PMID: 37024471 PMCID: PMC10079974 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-05763-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023]
Abstract
Cyclin D1 (CCND1), a crucial mediator of cell cycle progression, possesses many mutation types with different mutation frequencies in human cancers. The G870A mutation is the most common mutation in CCND1, which produces two isoforms: full-length CCND1a and divergent C-terminal CCND1b. The dysregulation of the CCND1 isoforms is associated with multiple human cancers. Exploring the molecular mechanism of CCND1 isoforms has offer new insight for cancer treatment. On this basis, the alterations of CCND1 gene are described, including amplification, overexpression, and mutation, especially the G870A mutation. Subsequently, we review the characteristics of CCND1 isoforms caused by G870A mutation. Additionally, we summarize cis-regulatory elements, trans-acting factors, and the splice mutation involved in splicing regulation of CCND1. Furthermore, we highlight the function of CCND1 isoforms in cell cycle, invasion, and metastasis in cancers. Importantly, the clinical role of CCND1 isoforms is also discussed, particularly concerning prognosis, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. Last, emphasis is given to the corrective strategies that modulate the cancerous CCND1 isoforms. Thus, it is highlighting significance of aberrant isoforms of CCND1 as targets for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China
- Bio-Medical Research Center, Institute of Modern Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - Wei Su
- Bio-Medical Research Center, Institute of Modern Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, 730000, China
- Key Laboratory of Heavy Ion Radiation Biology and Medicine of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, 730000, China
- College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 101408, China
| | - Taotao Zhang
- Bio-Medical Research Center, Institute of Modern Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, 730000, China
- Key Laboratory of Heavy Ion Radiation Biology and Medicine of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, 730000, China
- College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 101408, China
| | - Shasha Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - Huiwen Lei
- Bio-Medical Research Center, Institute of Modern Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, 730000, China
- Key Laboratory of Heavy Ion Radiation Biology and Medicine of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, 730000, China
- College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 101408, China
| | - Fengdie Ma
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - Maoning Shi
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - Wenjing Shi
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - Xiaodong Xie
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China.
| | - Cuixia Di
- Bio-Medical Research Center, Institute of Modern Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, 730000, China.
- Key Laboratory of Heavy Ion Radiation Biology and Medicine of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, 730000, China.
- College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 101408, China.
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Devlin L, Dhondurao Sudhindar P, Sayer JA. Renal ciliopathies: promising drug targets and prospects for clinical trials. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2023; 27:325-346. [PMID: 37243567 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2023.2218616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Renal ciliopathies represent a collection of genetic disorders characterized by deficiencies in the biogenesis, maintenance, or functioning of the ciliary complex. These disorders, which encompass autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD), autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease (ARPKD), and nephronophthisis (NPHP), typically result in cystic kidney disease, renal fibrosis, and a gradual deterioration of kidney function, culminating in kidney failure. AREAS COVERED Here we review the advances in basic science and clinical research into renal ciliopathies which have yielded promising small compounds and drug targets, within both preclinical studies and clinical trials. EXPERT OPINION Tolvaptan is currently the sole approved treatment option available for ADPKD patients, while no approved treatment alternatives exist for ARPKD or NPHP patients. Clinical trials are presently underway to evaluate additional medications in ADPKD and ARPKD patients. Based on preclinical models, other potential therapeutic targets for ADPKD, ARPKD, and NPHP look promising. These include molecules targeting fluid transport, cellular metabolism, ciliary signaling and cell-cycle regulation. There is a real and urgent clinical need for translational research to bring novel treatments to clinical use for all forms of renal ciliopathies to reduce kidney disease progression and prevent kidney failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Devlin
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Praveen Dhondurao Sudhindar
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - John A Sayer
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
- Renal Services, Newcastle Upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
- NIHR Newcastle Biomedical Research Centre, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
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13
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Circular RNAs-New Kids on the Block in Cancer Pathophysiology and Management. Cells 2023; 12:cells12040552. [PMID: 36831219 PMCID: PMC9953808 DOI: 10.3390/cells12040552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The ever-increasing number of cancer cases and persistently high mortality underlines the urgent need to acquire new perspectives for developing innovative therapeutic approaches. As the research on protein-coding genes brought significant yet only incremental progress in the development of anticancer therapy, much attention is now devoted to understanding the role of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) in various types of cancer. Recent years have brought about the awareness that ncRNAs recognized previously as "dark matter" are, in fact, key players in shaping cancer development. Moreover, breakthrough discoveries concerning the role of a new group of ncRNAs, circular RNAs, have evidenced their high importance in many diseases, including malignancies. Therefore, in the following review, we focus on the role of circular RNAs in cancer, particularly in cancer stem-like cells, summarize their mechanisms of action, and provide an overview of the state-of-the-art toolkits to study them.
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14
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RNA-targeting strategies as a platform for ocular gene therapy. Prog Retin Eye Res 2023; 92:101110. [PMID: 35840489 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2022.101110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Genetic medicine is offering hope as new therapies are emerging for many previously untreatable diseases. The eye is at the forefront of these advances, as exemplified by the approval of Luxturna® by the United States Food and Drug Administration (US FDA) in 2017 for the treatment of one form of Leber Congenital Amaurosis (LCA), an inherited blindness. Luxturna® was also the first in vivo human gene therapy to gain US FDA approval. Numerous gene therapy clinical trials are ongoing for other eye diseases, and novel delivery systems, discovery of new drug targets and emerging technologies are currently driving the field forward. Targeting RNA, in particular, is an attractive therapeutic strategy for genetic disease that may have safety advantages over alternative approaches by avoiding permanent changes in the genome. In this regard, antisense oligonucleotides (ASO) and RNA interference (RNAi) are the currently popular strategies for developing RNA-targeted therapeutics. Enthusiasm has been further fuelled by the emergence of clustered regularly interspersed short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-CRISPR associated (Cas) systems that allow targeted manipulation of nucleic acids. RNA-targeting CRISPR-Cas systems now provide a novel way to develop RNA-targeted therapeutics and may provide superior efficiency and specificity to existing technologies. In addition, RNA base editing technologies using CRISPR-Cas and other modalities also enable precise alteration of single nucleotides. In this review, we showcase advances made by RNA-targeting systems for ocular disease, discuss applications of ASO and RNAi technologies, highlight emerging CRISPR-Cas systems and consider the implications of RNA-targeting therapeutics in the development of future drugs to treat eye disease.
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15
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Altay HY, Ozdemir F, Afghah F, Kilinc Z, Ahmadian M, Tschopp M, Agca C. Gene regulatory and gene editing tools and their applications for retinal diseases and neuroprotection: From proof-of-concept to clinical trial. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:924917. [PMID: 36340792 PMCID: PMC9630553 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.924917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 09/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Gene editing and gene regulatory fields are continuously developing new and safer tools that move beyond the initial CRISPR/Cas9 technology. As more advanced applications are emerging, it becomes crucial to understand and establish more complex gene regulatory and editing tools for efficient gene therapy applications. Ophthalmology is one of the leading fields in gene therapy applications with more than 90 clinical trials and numerous proof-of-concept studies. The majority of clinical trials are gene replacement therapies that are ideal for monogenic diseases. Despite Luxturna's clinical success, there are still several limitations to gene replacement therapies including the size of the target gene, the choice of the promoter as well as the pathogenic alleles. Therefore, further attempts to employ novel gene regulatory and gene editing applications are crucial to targeting retinal diseases that have not been possible with the existing approaches. CRISPR-Cas9 technology opened up the door for corrective gene therapies with its gene editing properties. Advancements in CRISPR-Cas9-associated tools including base modifiers and prime editing already improved the efficiency and safety profile of base editing approaches. While base editing is a highly promising effort, gene regulatory approaches that do not interfere with genomic changes are also becoming available as safer alternatives. Antisense oligonucleotides are one of the most commonly used approaches for correcting splicing defects or eliminating mutant mRNA. More complex gene regulatory methodologies like artificial transcription factors are also another developing field that allows targeting haploinsufficiency conditions, functionally equivalent genes, and multiplex gene regulation. In this review, we summarized the novel gene editing and gene regulatory technologies and highlighted recent translational progress, potential applications, and limitations with a focus on retinal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Halit Yusuf Altay
- Molecular Biology, Genetics and Bioengineering Program, Sabanci University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Fatma Ozdemir
- Molecular Biology, Genetics and Bioengineering Program, Sabanci University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ferdows Afghah
- Molecular Biology, Genetics and Bioengineering Program, Sabanci University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Zeynep Kilinc
- Molecular Biology, Genetics and Bioengineering Program, Sabanci University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Mehri Ahmadian
- Molecular Biology, Genetics and Bioengineering Program, Sabanci University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Markus Tschopp
- Department of Ophthalmology, Cantonal Hospital Aarau, Aarau, Switzerland
- Department of Ophthalmology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Cavit Agca
- Molecular Biology, Genetics and Bioengineering Program, Sabanci University, Istanbul, Turkey
- Nanotechnology Research and Application Center (SUNUM), Sabanci University, Istanbul, Turkey
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16
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Daich Varela M, Bellingham J, Motta F, Jurkute N, Ellingford JM, Quinodoz M, Oprych K, Niblock M, Janeschitz-Kriegl L, Kaminska K, Cancellieri F, Scholl HPN, Lenassi E, Schiff E, Knight H, Black G, Rivolta C, Cheetham ME, Michaelides M, Mahroo OA, Moore AT, Webster AR, Arno G. Multidisciplinary team directed analysis of whole genome sequencing reveals pathogenic non-coding variants in molecularly undiagnosed inherited retinal dystrophies. Hum Mol Genet 2022; 32:595-607. [PMID: 36084042 PMCID: PMC9896476 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddac227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this paper is to identify likely pathogenic non-coding variants in inherited retinal dystrophy (IRD) genes, using genome sequencing (GS). Patients with IRD were recruited to the study and underwent comprehensive ophthalmological evaluation and GS. The results of GS were investigated through virtual gene panel analysis, and plausible pathogenic variants and clinical phenotype evaluated by the multidisciplinary team (MDT) discussion. For unsolved patients in whom a specific gene was suspected to harbor a missed pathogenic variant, targeted re-analysis of non-coding regions was performed on GS data. Candidate variants were functionally tested by messenger RNA analysis, minigene or luciferase reporter assays. Previously unreported, likely pathogenic, non-coding variants in 7 genes (PRPF31, NDP, IFT140, CRB1, USH2A, BBS10 and GUCY2D), were identified in 11 patients. These were shown to lead to mis-splicing (PRPF31, IFT140, CRB1 and USH2A) or altered transcription levels (BBS10 and GUCY2D). MDT-led, phenotype-driven, non-coding variant re-analysis of GS is effective in identifying the missing causative alleles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malena Daich Varela
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London EC1V 9EL, UK,Moorfields Eye Hospital, London EC1V 2PD, UK
| | | | - Fabiana Motta
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London EC1V 9EL, UK,Department of Ophthalmology, Universidade Federal de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo 04021001, Brazil
| | - Neringa Jurkute
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London EC1V 9EL, UK,Moorfields Eye Hospital, London EC1V 2PD, UK
| | - Jamie M Ellingford
- North West Genomic Laboratory Hub, Manchester Centre for Genomic Medicine, Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, St Mary’s Hospital, Manchester M13 9WL, UK,Division of Evolution and Genomic Sciences, Neuroscience and Mental Health Domain, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
| | - Mathieu Quinodoz
- Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology Basel, Basel 4031, Switzerland,Department of Ophthalmology, University of Basel, Basel 4031, Switzerland,Department of Genetics and Genome Biology, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK
| | | | | | - Lucas Janeschitz-Kriegl
- Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology Basel, Basel 4031, Switzerland,Department of Ophthalmology, University of Basel, Basel 4031, Switzerland
| | - Karolina Kaminska
- Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology Basel, Basel 4031, Switzerland,Department of Ophthalmology, University of Basel, Basel 4031, Switzerland
| | - Francesca Cancellieri
- Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology Basel, Basel 4031, Switzerland,Department of Ophthalmology, University of Basel, Basel 4031, Switzerland
| | - Hendrik P N Scholl
- Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology Basel, Basel 4031, Switzerland,Department of Ophthalmology, University of Basel, Basel 4031, Switzerland
| | - Eva Lenassi
- North West Genomic Laboratory Hub, Manchester Centre for Genomic Medicine, Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, St Mary’s Hospital, Manchester M13 9WL, UK,Division of Evolution and Genomic Sciences, Neuroscience and Mental Health Domain, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
| | | | | | - Graeme Black
- North West Genomic Laboratory Hub, Manchester Centre for Genomic Medicine, Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, St Mary’s Hospital, Manchester M13 9WL, UK,Division of Evolution and Genomic Sciences, Neuroscience and Mental Health Domain, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
| | - Carlo Rivolta
- Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology Basel, Basel 4031, Switzerland,Department of Ophthalmology, University of Basel, Basel 4031, Switzerland,Department of Genetics and Genome Biology, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK
| | | | - Michel Michaelides
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London EC1V 9EL, UK,Moorfields Eye Hospital, London EC1V 2PD, UK
| | - Omar A Mahroo
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London EC1V 9EL, UK,Moorfields Eye Hospital, London EC1V 2PD, UK
| | - Anthony T Moore
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London EC1V 9EL, UK,Moorfields Eye Hospital, London EC1V 2PD, UK,University of California, San Francisco, CA 94607, USA
| | - Andrew R Webster
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London EC1V 9EL, UK,Moorfields Eye Hospital, London EC1V 2PD, UK
| | - Gavin Arno
- To whom correspondence should be addressed at: UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, 11-43 Bath Street, London EC1 9EL, UK. Tel: +44 2076086971;
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17
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Lange J, Zhou H, McTague A. Cerebral Organoids and Antisense Oligonucleotide Therapeutics: Challenges and Opportunities. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:941528. [PMID: 35836547 PMCID: PMC9274522 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.941528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The advent of stem cell-derived cerebral organoids has already advanced our understanding of disease mechanisms in neurological diseases. Despite this, many remain without effective treatments, resulting in significant personal and societal health burden. Antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) are one of the most widely used approaches for targeting RNA and modifying gene expression, with significant advancements in clinical trials for epilepsy, neuromuscular disorders and other neurological conditions. ASOs have further potential to address the unmet need in other neurological diseases for novel therapies which directly target the causative genes, allowing precision treatment. Induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) derived cerebral organoids represent an ideal platform in which to evaluate novel ASO therapies. In patient-derived organoids, disease-causing mutations can be studied in the native genetic milieu, opening the door to test personalized ASO therapies and n-of-1 approaches. In addition, CRISPR-Cas9 can be used to generate isogenic iPSCs to assess the effects of ASOs, by either creating disease-specific mutations or correcting available disease iPSC lines. Currently, ASO therapies face a number of challenges to wider translation, including insufficient uptake by distinct and preferential cell types in central nervous system and inability to cross the blood brain barrier necessitating intrathecal administration. Cerebral organoids provide a practical model to address and improve these limitations. In this review we will address the current use of organoids to test ASO therapies, opportunities for future applications and challenges including those inherent to cerebral organoids, issues with organoid transfection and choice of appropriate read-outs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny Lange
- Department for Developmental Neurosciences, Zayed Centre for Research Into Rare Disease in Children, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Haiyan Zhou
- Genetics and Genomic Medicine Research and Teaching Department, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research Centre, London, United Kingdom
| | - Amy McTague
- Department for Developmental Neurosciences, Zayed Centre for Research Into Rare Disease in Children, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research Centre, London, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Amy McTague,
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18
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Su Y, Raguraman P, Veedu RN, Filichev VV. Phosphorothioate modification improves exon-skipping of antisense oligonucleotides based on sulfonyl phosphoramidates in mdx mouse myotubes. Org Biomol Chem 2022; 20:3790-3797. [PMID: 35438707 DOI: 10.1039/d2ob00304j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
2'-O-Methyl (2'-OMe) antisense oligonucleotides (AOs) possessing a various number of 4-(trimethylammonio)butylsulfonyl or tosyl phosphoramidates (N+ and Ts-modifications, respectively) instead of a native phosphodiester linkage were designed to skip exon-23 in dystrophin pre-mRNA transcript in mdx mice myotubes. AOs bearing several zwitterionic N+ modifications in the sequence had remarkably increased thermal stability towards complementary mRNA in comparison with 2'-OMe-RNAs having negatively charged Ts and phosphorothioate (PS) linkages. However, only Ts-modified AOs exhibited a similar level of exon skipping in comparison with fully modified PS-containing 2'-OMe-RNA, whereas the exon skipping induced by N+ modified AOs was much lower with no exon-skipping detected for AOs having seven N+ modifications. The level of exon-skipping was improved once Ts and especially N+ moieties were used in combination with PS-modification, most likely through improved cellular and nuclear uptake of AOs. These results provide new insights on expanding the design of novel chemically modified AOs based on phosphate modifications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongdong Su
- School of Natural Sciences, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, 4442 Palmerston North, New Zealand. .,Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Prithi Raguraman
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Murdoch University, Perth 6150, Australia. .,Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Perth 6150, Australia
| | - Rakesh N Veedu
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Murdoch University, Perth 6150, Australia. .,Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Perth 6150, Australia
| | - Vyacheslav V Filichev
- School of Natural Sciences, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, 4442 Palmerston North, New Zealand. .,Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
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19
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Gene-independent therapeutic interventions to maintain and restore light sensitivity in degenerating photoreceptors. Prog Retin Eye Res 2022; 90:101065. [PMID: 35562270 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2022.101065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative retinal diseases are a prime cause of blindness in industrialized countries. In many cases, there are no therapeutic treatments, although they are essential to improve patients' quality of life. A set of disease-causing genes, which primarily affect photoreceptors, has already been identified and is of major interest for developing gene therapies. Nevertheless, depending on the nature and the state of the disease, gene-independent strategies are needed. Various strategies to halt disease progression or maintain function of the retina are under research. These therapeutic interventions include neuroprotection, direct reprogramming of affected photoreceptors, the application of non-coding RNAs, the generation of artificial photoreceptors by optogenetics and cell replacement strategies. During recent years, major breakthroughs have been made such as the first optogenetic application to a blind patient whose visual function partially recovered by targeting retinal ganglion cells. Also, RPE cell transplantation therapies are under clinical investigation and show great promise to improve visual function in blind patients. These cells are generated from human stem cells. Similar therapies for replacing photoreceptors are extensively tested in pre-clinical models. This marks just the start of promising new cures taking advantage of developments in the areas of genetic engineering, optogenetics, and stem-cell research. In this review, we present the recent therapeutic advances of gene-independent approaches that are currently under clinical evaluation. Our main focus is on photoreceptors as these sensory cells are highly vulnerable to degenerative diseases, and are crucial for light detection.
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20
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Telias M, Sit KK, Frozenfar D, Smith B, Misra A, Goard MJ, Kramer RH. Retinoic acid inhibitors mitigate vision loss in a mouse model of retinal degeneration. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabm4643. [PMID: 35302843 PMCID: PMC8932665 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abm4643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Rod and cone photoreceptors degenerate in retinitis pigmentosa (RP). While downstream neurons survive, they undergo physiological changes, including accelerated spontaneous firing in retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). Retinoic acid (RA) is the molecular trigger of RGC hyperactivity, but whether this interferes with visual perception is unknown. Here, we show that inhibiting RA synthesis with disulfiram, a deterrent of human alcohol abuse, improves behavioral image detection in vision-impaired mice. In vivo Ca2+ imaging shows that disulfiram sharpens orientation tuning of visual cortical neurons and strengthens fidelity of responses to natural scenes. An RA receptor inhibitor also reduces RGC hyperactivity, sharpens cortical representations, and improves image detection. These findings suggest that photoreceptor degeneration is not the only cause of vision loss in RP. RA-induced corruption of retinal information processing also degrades vision, pointing to RA synthesis and signaling inhibitors as potential therapeutic tools for improving sight in RP and other retinal degenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Telias
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Kevin K. Sit
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of California, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
| | - Daniel Frozenfar
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Benjamin Smith
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Arjit Misra
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Michael J. Goard
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of California, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
- Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences, University of California, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
| | - Richard H. Kramer
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
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21
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Abstract
RNA-based therapeutics have entered the mainstream with seemingly limitless possibilities to treat all categories of neurological disease. Here, common RNA-based drug modalities such as antisense oligonucleotides, small interfering RNAs, RNA aptamers, RNA-based vaccines and mRNA drugs are reviewed highlighting their current and potential applications. Rapid progress has been made across rare genetic diseases and neurodegenerative disorders, but safe and effective delivery to the brain remains a significant challenge for many applications. The advent of individualized RNA-based therapies for ultra-rare diseases is discussed against the backdrop of the emergence of this field into more common conditions such as Alzheimer's disease and ischaemic stroke. There remains significant untapped potential in the use of RNA-based therapeutics for behavioural disorders and tumours of the central nervous system; coupled with the accelerated development expected over the next decade, the true potential of RNA-based therapeutics to transform the therapeutic landscape in neurology remains to be uncovered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Anthony
- Centre for Physical Activity and Life Sciences, University of Northampton, Northampton, UK
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22
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Fenner BJ, Tan TE, Barathi AV, Tun SBB, Yeo SW, Tsai ASH, Lee SY, Cheung CMG, Chan CM, Mehta JS, Teo KYC. Gene-Based Therapeutics for Inherited Retinal Diseases. Front Genet 2022; 12:794805. [PMID: 35069693 PMCID: PMC8782148 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.794805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Inherited retinal diseases (IRDs) are a heterogenous group of orphan eye diseases that typically result from monogenic mutations and are considered attractive targets for gene-based therapeutics. Following the approval of an IRD gene replacement therapy for Leber's congenital amaurosis due to RPE65 mutations, there has been an intensive international research effort to identify the optimal gene therapy approaches for a range of IRDs and many are now undergoing clinical trials. In this review we explore therapeutic challenges posed by IRDs and review current and future approaches that may be applicable to different subsets of IRD mutations. Emphasis is placed on five distinct approaches to gene-based therapy that have potential to treat the full spectrum of IRDs: 1) gene replacement using adeno-associated virus (AAV) and nonviral delivery vectors, 2) genome editing via the CRISPR/Cas9 system, 3) RNA editing by endogenous and exogenous ADAR, 4) mRNA targeting with antisense oligonucleotides for gene knockdown and splicing modification, and 5) optogenetic approaches that aim to replace the function of native retinal photoreceptors by engineering other retinal cell types to become capable of phototransduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beau J Fenner
- Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore, Singapore.,Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore, Singapore.,Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School, Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences Academic Clinical Programme, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Tien-En Tan
- Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore, Singapore.,Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore, Singapore.,Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School, Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences Academic Clinical Programme, Singapore, Singapore
| | | | - Sai Bo Bo Tun
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Sia Wey Yeo
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Andrew S H Tsai
- Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore, Singapore.,Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore, Singapore.,Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School, Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences Academic Clinical Programme, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Shu Yen Lee
- Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore, Singapore.,Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore, Singapore.,Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School, Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences Academic Clinical Programme, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Chui Ming Gemmy Cheung
- Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore, Singapore.,Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore, Singapore.,Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School, Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences Academic Clinical Programme, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Choi Mun Chan
- Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore, Singapore.,Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore, Singapore.,Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School, Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences Academic Clinical Programme, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jodhbir S Mehta
- Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore, Singapore.,Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore, Singapore.,Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School, Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences Academic Clinical Programme, Singapore, Singapore.,School of Material Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore.,Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Kelvin Y C Teo
- Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore, Singapore.,Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore, Singapore.,Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School, Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences Academic Clinical Programme, Singapore, Singapore
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23
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Yusuf IH, Garrett A, MacLaren RE, Issa PC. Retinal cadherins and the retinal cadherinopathies: Current concepts and future directions. Prog Retin Eye Res 2022; 90:101038. [DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2021.101038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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24
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Girach A, Audo I, Birch DG, Huckfeldt RM, Lam BL, Leroy BP, Michaelides M, Russell SR, Sallum JM, Stingl K, Tsang SH, Yang P. RNA-based therapies in inherited retinal diseases. Ther Adv Ophthalmol 2022; 14:25158414221134602. [PMID: 36388727 PMCID: PMC9643766 DOI: 10.1177/25158414221134602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Inherited retinal diseases (IRDs) are a genetically and phenotypically heterogeneous group of genetic eye disorders. There are more than 300 disease entities, and together this group of disorders affects millions of people globally and is a frequent cause of blindness or low-vision certification. However, each type is rare or ultra-rare. Characteristically, the impaired vision in IRDs is due to retinal photoreceptor dysfunction and loss resulting from mutation in a gene that codes for a retinal protein. Historically, IRDs have been considered incurable and individuals living with these blinding conditions could be offered only supportive care. However, the treatment landscape for IRDs is beginning to evolve. Progress is being made, driven by improvements in understanding of genotype-phenotype relationships, through advances in molecular genetic testing and retinal imaging. Alongside this expanding knowledge of IRDs, the current era of precision medicine is fueling a growth in targeted therapies. This has resulted in the first treatment for an IRD being approved. Several other therapies are currently in development in the IRD space, including RNA-based therapies, gene-based therapies (such as augmentation therapy and gene editing), cell therapy, visual prosthetics, and optogenetics. RNA-based therapies are a novel approach within precision medicine that have demonstrated success, particularly in rare diseases. Three antisense oligonucleotides (AONs) are currently in development for the treatment of specific IRD subtypes. These RNA-based therapies bring several key advantages in the setting of IRDs, and the potential to bring meaningful vision benefit to individuals living with inherited blinding disorders. This review will examine the increasing breadth and relevance of RNA-based therapies in clinical medicine, explore the key features that make AONs suitable for treating genetic eye diseases, and provide an overview of the three-leading investigational AONs in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aniz Girach
- ProQR Therapeutics, Zernikedreef 9, 2333 CK
Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Isabelle Audo
- Centre Hospitalier National d’Ophtalmologie des
Quinze-Vingts, Centre de référence maladies rares REFERET and INSERM-DHOS
CIC 1423, CHNO des Quinze-Vingts, Paris, France
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College
London, London, UK
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de
la Vision, Paris, France
| | | | - Rachel M. Huckfeldt
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical
School, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Byron L. Lam
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of
Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Bart P. Leroy
- Department of Ophthalmology & Center for
Medical Genetics, Ghent University Hospital & Ghent University, Ghent,
Belgium
- Division of Ophthalmology & Center for
Cellular & Molecular Therapeutics, The Children’s Hospital of
Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Michel Michaelides
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University
College London and Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, UK
| | - Stephen R. Russell
- The University of Iowa Institute for Vision
Research, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Juliana M.F. Sallum
- Department of Ophthalmology, Universidade
Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Instituto de Genética Ocular, São Paulo,
Brazil
| | - Katarina Stingl
- Center for Ophthalmology, University Eye
Hospital, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Center for Rare Eye Diseases, University of
Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Stephen H. Tsang
- Jonas Children’s Vision Care and Bernard and
Shirlee Brown Glaucoma Laboratory, Columbia Stem Cell Initiative, Vagelos
College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY,
USA
- Edward S. Harkness Eye Institute, New
York-Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY, USA
| | - Paul Yang
- Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health &
Science University, Portland, OR, USA
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25
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Dinculescu A, Link BA, Saperstein DA. Retinal Gene Therapy for Usher Syndrome: Current Developments, Challenges, and Perspectives. Int Ophthalmol Clin 2021; 61:109-124. [PMID: 34584048 PMCID: PMC8478317 DOI: 10.1097/iio.0000000000000378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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Shughoury A, Ciulla TA, Bakall B, Pennesi ME, Kiss S, Cunningham ET. Genes and Gene Therapy in Inherited Retinal Disease. Int Ophthalmol Clin 2021; 61:3-45. [PMID: 34584043 DOI: 10.1097/iio.0000000000000377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Ross M, Ofri R. The future of retinal gene therapy: evolving from subretinal to intravitreal vector delivery. Neural Regen Res 2021; 16:1751-1759. [PMID: 33510064 PMCID: PMC8328774 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.306063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Revised: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Inherited retinal degenerations are a leading and untreatbale cause of blindness, and as such they are targets for gene therapy. Numerous gene therapy treatments have progressed from laboratory research to clinical trails, and a pioneering gene therapy received the first ever FDA approval for treating patients. However, currently retinal gene therapy mostly involves subretinal injection of the therapeutic agent, which treats a limited area, entails retinal detachment and other potential complications, and requires general anesthesia with consequent risks, costs and prolonged recovery. Therefore there is great impetus to develop safer, less invasive and cheapter methods of gene delivery. A promising method is intravitreal injection, that does not cause retinal detachment, can lead to pan-retinal transduction and can be performed under local anesthesia in out-patient clinics. Intravitreally-injected vectors face several obstacles. First, the vector is diluted by the vitreous and has to overcome a long diffusion distance to the target cells. Second, the vector is exposed to the host's immune response, risking neutralization by pre-existing antibodies and triggering a stronger immune response to the injection. Third, the vector has to cross the inner limiting membrane which is both a physical and a biological barrier as it contains binding sites that could cause the vector's sequestration. Finally, in the target cell the vector is prone to proteasome degradation before delivering the transgene to the nucleus. Strategies to overcome these obstacles include modifications of the viral capsid, through rational design or directed evolution, which allow resistance to the immune system, enhancement of penetration through the inner limiting membrane or reduced degradation by intracellular proteasomes. Furthermore, physical and chemical manipulations of the inner limiting membrane and vitreous aim to improve vector penetration. Finally, compact non-viral vectors that can overcome the immunological, physical and anatomical and barriers have been developed. This paper reviews ongoing efforts to develop novel, safe and efficacious methods for intravitreal delivery of therapeutic genes for inherited retinal degenerations. To date, the most promising results are achieved in rodents with robust, pan-retinal transduction following intravitreal delivery. Trials in larger animal models demonstrate transduction mostly of inner retinal layers. Despite ongoing efforts, currently no intravitreally-injected vector has demonstrated outer retinal transduction efficacy comparable to that of subretinal delivery. Further work is warranted to test promising new viral and non-viral vectors on large animal models of inherited retinal degenerations. Positive results will pave the way to development of the next generation of treatments for inherited retinal degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya Ross
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Ron Ofri
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel
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Piotter E, McClements ME, MacLaren RE. Therapy Approaches for Stargardt Disease. Biomolecules 2021; 11:1179. [PMID: 34439845 PMCID: PMC8393614 DOI: 10.3390/biom11081179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Revised: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite being the most prevalent cause of inherited blindness in children, Stargardt disease is yet to achieve the same clinical trial success as has been achieved for other inherited retinal diseases. With an early age of onset and continual progression of disease over the life course of an individual, Stargardt disease appears to lend itself to therapeutic intervention. However, the aetiology provides issues not encountered with the likes of choroideremia and X-linked retinitis pigmentosa and this has led to a spectrum of treatment strategies that approach the problem from different aspects. These include therapeutics ranging from small molecules and anti-sense oligonucleotides to viral gene supplementation and cell replacement. The advancing development of CRISPR-based molecular tools is also likely to contribute to future therapies by way of genome editing. In this we review, we consider the most recent pre-clinical and clinical trial data relating to the different strategies being applied to the problem of generating a treatment for the large cohort of Stargardt disease patients worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Piotter
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK; (E.P.); (M.E.M.)
- Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Michelle E McClements
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK; (E.P.); (M.E.M.)
- Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Robert E MacLaren
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK; (E.P.); (M.E.M.)
- Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
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Cao KJ, Lyons EF, Smith BE, Denlinger BL, Ma H, Shirian JD, Kramer RH. Cyclodextrin‐Assisted Delivery of Azobenzene Photoswitches for Uniform and Long‐Term Restoration of Light Responses in Degenerated Retinas of Blind Mice. ADVANCED THERAPEUTICS 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/adtp.202100127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kevin J. Cao
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology University of California Berkeley Berkeley CA 94720‐3200 USA
- Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute University of California Berkeley Berkeley CA 94720‐3370 USA
| | - Elijah F. Lyons
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology University of California Berkeley Berkeley CA 94720‐3200 USA
| | - Benjamin E. Smith
- Vision Sciences Graduate Program University of California Berkeley Berkeley CA 94720‐2020 USA
| | - Bristol L. Denlinger
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology University of California Berkeley Berkeley CA 94720‐3200 USA
- Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute University of California Berkeley Berkeley CA 94720‐3370 USA
| | - Hong Ma
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology University of California Berkeley Berkeley CA 94720‐3200 USA
| | - Jonathan D. Shirian
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology University of California Berkeley Berkeley CA 94720‐3200 USA
| | - Richard H. Kramer
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology University of California Berkeley Berkeley CA 94720‐3200 USA
- Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute University of California Berkeley Berkeley CA 94720‐3370 USA
- Vision Sciences Graduate Program University of California Berkeley Berkeley CA 94720‐2020 USA
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García Bohórquez B, Aller E, Rodríguez Muñoz A, Jaijo T, García García G, Millán JM. Updating the Genetic Landscape of Inherited Retinal Dystrophies. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:645600. [PMID: 34327195 PMCID: PMC8315279 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.645600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Inherited retinal dystrophies (IRD) are a group of diseases characterized by the loss or dysfunction of photoreceptors and a high genetic and clinical heterogeneity. Currently, over 270 genes have been associated with IRD which makes genetic diagnosis very difficult. The recent advent of next generation sequencing has greatly facilitated the diagnostic process, enabling to provide the patients with accurate genetic counseling in some cases. We studied 92 patients who were clinically diagnosed with IRD with two different custom panels. In total, we resolved 53 patients (57.6%); in 12 patients (13%), we found only one mutation in a gene with a known autosomal recessive pattern of inheritance; and 27 patients (29.3%) remained unsolved. We identified 120 pathogenic or likely pathogenic variants; 30 of them were novel. Among the cone-rod dystrophy patients, ABCA4 was the most common mutated gene, meanwhile, USH2A was the most prevalent among the retinitis pigmentosa patients. Interestingly, 10 families carried pathogenic variants in more than one IRD gene, and we identified two deep-intronic variants previously described as pathogenic in ABCA4 and CEP290. In conclusion, the IRD study through custom panel sequencing demonstrates its efficacy for genetic diagnosis, as well as the importance of including deep-intronic regions in their design. This genetic diagnosis will allow patients to make accurate reproductive decisions, enroll in gene-based clinical trials, and benefit from future gene-based treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Belén García Bohórquez
- Molecular, Cellular and Genomics Biomedicine, Health Research Institute La Fe, Valencia, Spain
- CIBER of Rare Diseases, Madrid, Spain
| | - Elena Aller
- Molecular, Cellular and Genomics Biomedicine, Health Research Institute La Fe, Valencia, Spain
- CIBER of Rare Diseases, Madrid, Spain
- Unit of Genetics, University Hospital La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - Ana Rodríguez Muñoz
- Molecular, Cellular and Genomics Biomedicine, Health Research Institute La Fe, Valencia, Spain
- CIBER of Rare Diseases, Madrid, Spain
| | - Teresa Jaijo
- Molecular, Cellular and Genomics Biomedicine, Health Research Institute La Fe, Valencia, Spain
- CIBER of Rare Diseases, Madrid, Spain
- Unit of Genetics, University Hospital La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - Gema García García
- Molecular, Cellular and Genomics Biomedicine, Health Research Institute La Fe, Valencia, Spain
- CIBER of Rare Diseases, Madrid, Spain
| | - José M. Millán
- Molecular, Cellular and Genomics Biomedicine, Health Research Institute La Fe, Valencia, Spain
- CIBER of Rare Diseases, Madrid, Spain
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Testa F, Sodi A, Signorini S, Di Iorio V, Murro V, Brunetti-Pierri R, Valente EM, Karali M, Melillo P, Banfi S, Simonelli F. Spectrum of Disease Severity in Nonsyndromic Patients With Mutations in the CEP290 Gene: A Multicentric Longitudinal Study. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2021; 62:1. [PMID: 34196655 PMCID: PMC8267213 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.62.9.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The purpose of this study was to perform a detailed longitudinal phenotyping and genetic characterization of 32 Italian patients with a nonsyndromic retinal dystrophy and mutations in the CEP290 gene. Methods We reviewed the clinical history and examinations of 32 patients with a nonsyndromic retinal dystrophy due to mutations in the CEP290 gene, followed up (mean follow-up: 5.9 years) at 3 Italian centers. The clinical examinations included: best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), optical coherence tomography (OCT), and full-field electroretinogram (ERG). Results Patients (mean age = 19.0 ± 3.4 years) had a mean BCVA of 1.73 ± 0.20 logMAR. Longitudinal analysis of BCVA showed a nonsignificant decline. Central retinal thickness (CRT) declined significantly with age at an exponential rate of 1.0%/year (P = 0.001). At disease onset, most patients (19/32; 49.4%) had nystagmus. The absence of nystagmus was significantly associated with better BCVA and more preserved CRT (P < 0.05). ERG showed undetectable responses in most patients (64.0%), whereas reduced scotopic and photopic responses were observed in four patients (16.0%) who had no nystagmus. We identified 35 different variants, among which 12 were novel. Our genotype-phenotype correlation analysis shows a significantly worse BCVA in patients harboring a loss-of-function mutation and the deep-intronic variant c.2991+1655A>G. Conclusions Our study highlights a mild phenotype of the disease, characterized by absence of nystagmus, good visual acuity, considerably preserved retinal morphology, and recordable ERG, confirming the wide spectrum of CEP290-related retinal dystrophies. Finally, in our cohort, the deep intronic variant c.2991+1655A>G was associated with a more severe phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Testa
- Eye Clinic, Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Andrea Sodi
- Eye Clinic, Neuromuscolar and Sense Organs Department, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Sabrina Signorini
- Unit of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, IRCCS C. Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Valentina Di Iorio
- Eye Clinic, Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Vittoria Murro
- Eye Clinic, Neuromuscolar and Sense Organs Department, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Raffaella Brunetti-Pierri
- Eye Clinic, Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Enza Maria Valente
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.,Neurogenetics Unit, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Marianthi Karali
- Eye Clinic, Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy.,Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine, Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Paolo Melillo
- Eye Clinic, Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Sandro Banfi
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine, Pozzuoli, Italy.,Medical Genetics, Department of Precision Medicine, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Francesca Simonelli
- Eye Clinic, Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
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Fry LE, McClements ME, MacLaren RE. Analysis of Pathogenic Variants Correctable With CRISPR Base Editing Among Patients With Recessive Inherited Retinal Degeneration. JAMA Ophthalmol 2021; 139:319-328. [PMID: 33507217 DOI: 10.1001/jamaophthalmol.2020.6418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Importance Many common inherited retinal diseases are not easily treated with gene therapy. Gene editing with base editors may allow the targeted repair of single-nucleotide transition variants in DNA and RNA. It is unknown how many patients have pathogenic variants that are correctable with a base editing strategy. Objective To assess the prevalence and spectrum of pathogenic single-nucleotide variants amenable to base editing in common large recessively inherited genes that are associated with inherited retinal degeneration. Design, Setting, and Participants In this retrospective cross-sectional study, nonidentifiable records of patients with biallelic pathogenic variants of genes associated with inherited retinal degeneration between July 2013 and December 2019 were analyzed using data from the Oxford University Hospitals Medical Genetics Laboratories, the Leiden Open Variation Database, and previously published studies. Six candidate genes (ABCA4, CDH23, CEP290, EYS, MYO7A, and USH2A), which were determined to be the most common recessive genes with coding sequences not deliverable in a single adeno-associated viral vector, were examined. Data were analyzed from April 16 to May 11, 2020. Main Outcomes and Measures Proportion of alleles with a pathogenic transition variant that is potentially correctable with a base editing strategy and proportion of patients with a base-editable allele. Results A total of 12 369 alleles from the Leiden Open Variation Database and 179 patients who received diagnoses through the genetic service of the Oxford University Hospitals Medical Genetics Laboratories were analyzed. Editable variants accounted for 53% of all pathogenic variants in the candidate genes contained in the Leiden Open Variation Database. The proportion of pathogenic alleles that were editable varied by gene; 63.1% of alleles in ABCA4, 62.7% of alleles in CDH23, 53.8% of alleles in MYO7A, 41.6% of alleles in CEP290, 37.3% of alleles in USH2A, and 22.2% of alleles in EYS were editable. The 5 most common editable pathogenic variants of each gene accounted for a mean (SD) of 19.1% (9.5%) of all pathogenic alleles within each gene. In the Oxford cohort, 136 of 179 patients (76.0%) had at least 1 editable allele. A total of 53 of 107 patients (49.5%) with biallelic pathogenic variants in the gene ABCA4 and 16 of 56 patients (28.6%) with biallelic pathogenic variants in the gene USH2A had 1 of the 5 most common editable alleles. Conclusions and Relevance This study found that pathogenic variants amenable to base editing commonly occur in inherited retinal degeneration. These findings, if generalized to other cohorts, provide an approach for developing base editing therapies to treat retinal degeneration not amenable to gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lewis E Fry
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.,Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals National Health Service Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Michelle E McClements
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.,Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals National Health Service Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Robert E MacLaren
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.,Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals National Health Service Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
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Iturriaga-Goyon E, Buentello-Volante B, Magaña-Guerrero FS, Garfias Y. Future Perspectives of Therapeutic, Diagnostic and Prognostic Aptamers in Eye Pathological Angiogenesis. Cells 2021; 10:cells10061455. [PMID: 34200613 PMCID: PMC8227682 DOI: 10.3390/cells10061455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Aptamers are single-stranded DNA or RNA oligonucleotides that are currently used in clinical trials due to their selectivity and specificity to bind small molecules such as proteins, peptides, viral particles, vitamins, metal ions and even whole cells. Aptamers are highly specific to their targets, they are smaller than antibodies and fragment antibodies, they can be easily conjugated to multiple surfaces and ions and controllable post-production modifications can be performed. Aptamers have been therapeutically used for age-related macular degeneration, cancer, thrombosis and inflammatory diseases. The aim of this review is to highlight the therapeutic, diagnostic and prognostic possibilities associated with aptamers, focusing on eye pathological angiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilio Iturriaga-Goyon
- MD/PhD (PECEM) Program, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City 04510, Mexico;
- Cell and Tissue Biology, Research Unit, Institute of Ophthalmology, Conde de Valenciana, Chimalpopoca 14, Mexico City 06800, Mexico; (B.B.-V.); (F.S.M.-G.)
- Department of Biochemistry, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Av. Universidad 3000, Mexico City 04510, Mexico
| | - Beatriz Buentello-Volante
- Cell and Tissue Biology, Research Unit, Institute of Ophthalmology, Conde de Valenciana, Chimalpopoca 14, Mexico City 06800, Mexico; (B.B.-V.); (F.S.M.-G.)
| | - Fátima Sofía Magaña-Guerrero
- Cell and Tissue Biology, Research Unit, Institute of Ophthalmology, Conde de Valenciana, Chimalpopoca 14, Mexico City 06800, Mexico; (B.B.-V.); (F.S.M.-G.)
| | - Yonathan Garfias
- Cell and Tissue Biology, Research Unit, Institute of Ophthalmology, Conde de Valenciana, Chimalpopoca 14, Mexico City 06800, Mexico; (B.B.-V.); (F.S.M.-G.)
- Department of Biochemistry, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Av. Universidad 3000, Mexico City 04510, Mexico
- Correspondence:
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Han RC, Fry LE, Kantor A, McClements ME, Xue K, MacLaren RE. Is subretinal AAV gene replacement still the only viable treatment option for choroideremia? Expert Opin Orphan Drugs 2021; 9:13-24. [PMID: 34040899 PMCID: PMC7610829 DOI: 10.1080/21678707.2021.1882300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Choroideremia is an X-linked inherited retinal degeneration resulting from mutations in the CHM gene, encoding Rab escort protein-1 (REP1), a protein regulating intracellular vesicular transport. Loss-of-function mutations in CHM lead to progressive loss of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) with photoreceptor and choriocapillaris degeneration, leading to progressive visual field constriction and loss of visual acuity. Three hundred and fifty-four unique mutations have been reported in CHM. While gene augmentation remains an ideal therapeutic option for choroideremia, other potential future clinical strategies may exist. AREAS COVERED The authors examine the pathophysiology and genetic basis of choroideremia. They summarize the status of ongoing gene therapy trials and discuss CHM mutations amenable to other therapeutic approaches including CRISPR/Cas-based DNA and RNA editing, nonsense suppression of premature termination codons, and antisense oligonucleotides for splice modification. The authors undertook a literature search in PubMed and NIH Clinical Trials in October 2020. EXPERT OPINION The authors conclude that AAV-mediated gene augmentation remains the most effective approach for choroideremia. Given the heterogeneity of CHM mutations and potential risks and benefits, genome-editing approaches currently do not offer significant advantages. Nonsense suppression strategies and antisense oligonucleotides are exciting novel therapeutic options; however, their clinical viability remains to be determined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruofan Connie Han
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Lewis E. Fry
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Ariel Kantor
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Kanmin Xue
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Robert E. MacLaren
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust, Oxford, UK
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Quinn J, Musa A, Kantor A, McClements ME, Cehajic-Kapetanovic J, MacLaren RE, Xue K. Genome-Editing Strategies for Treating Human Retinal Degenerations. Hum Gene Ther 2021; 32:247-259. [PMID: 32993386 PMCID: PMC7987357 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2020.231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Inherited retinal degenerations (IRDs) are a leading cause of blindness. Although gene-supplementation therapies have been developed, they are only available for a small proportion of recessive IRD mutations. In contrast, genome editing using clustered-regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) CRISPR-associated (Cas) systems could provide alternative therapeutic avenues for treating a wide range of genetic retinal diseases through targeted knockdown or correction of mutant alleles. Progress in this rapidly evolving field has been highlighted by recent Food and Drug Administration clinical trial approval for EDIT-101 (Editas Medicine, Inc., Cambridge, MA), which has demonstrated efficacious genome editing in a mouse model of CEP290-associated Leber congenital amaurosis and safety in nonhuman primates. Nonetheless, there remains a significant number of challenges to developing clinically viable retinal genome-editing therapies. In particular, IRD-causing mutations occur in more than 200 known genes, with considerable heterogeneity in mutation type and position within each gene. Additionally, there are remaining safety concerns over long-term expression of Cas9 in vivo. This review highlights (i) the technological advances in gene-editing technology, (ii) major safety concerns associated with retinal genome editing, and (iii) potential strategies for overcoming these challenges to develop clinical therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joel Quinn
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Ayesha Musa
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Ariel Kantor
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Michelle E. McClements
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Jasmina Cehajic-Kapetanovic
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Robert E. MacLaren
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Kanmin Xue
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Correspondence: Dr. Kanmin Xue, Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.
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Gupta A, Kafetzis KN, Tagalakis AD, Yu-Wai-Man C. RNA therapeutics in ophthalmology - translation to clinical trials. Exp Eye Res 2021; 205:108482. [PMID: 33548256 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2021.108482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2020] [Revised: 01/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The use of RNA interference technology has proven to inhibit the expression of many target genes involved in the underlying pathogenesis of several diseases affecting various systems. First established in in vitro and later in animal studies, small interfering RNA (siRNA) and antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) therapeutics are now entering clinical trials with the potential of clinical translation to patients. Gene-silencing therapies have demonstrated promising responses in ocular disorders, predominantly due to the structure of the eye being a closed and compartmentalised organ. However, although the efficacy of such treatments has been observed in both preclinical studies and clinical trials, there are issues pertaining to the use of these drugs which require more extensive research with regards to the delivery and stability of siRNAs and ASOs. This would improve their use for long-term treatment regimens and alleviate the difficulties experienced by patients with ocular diseases. This review provides a detailed insight into the recent developments and clinical trials that have been conducted for several gene-silencing therapies, including ISTH0036, SYL040012, SYL1001, PF-04523655, Sirna-027, QR-110, QR-1123, QR-421a and IONIS-FB-LRX in glaucoma, dry eye disease, age-related macular degeneration, diabetic macular oedema and various inherited retinal diseases. Our aim is to explore the potential of these drugs whilst evaluating their associated advantages and disadvantages, and to discuss the future translation of RNA therapeutics in ophthalmology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aanchal Gupta
- King's College London, London, SE1 7EH, United Kingdom; Department of Ophthalmology, St Thomas' Hospital, London, SE1 7EH, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Cynthia Yu-Wai-Man
- King's College London, London, SE1 7EH, United Kingdom; Department of Ophthalmology, St Thomas' Hospital, London, SE1 7EH, United Kingdom.
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Dong R, Zhang B, Tan B, Lin N. Long non-coding RNAs as the regulators and targets of macrophage M2 polarization. Life Sci 2021; 266:118895. [PMID: 33310042 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2020.118895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Revised: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Macrophages are immune cells with high heterogeneity and plasticity. M2 polarization is one extreme of the well-established phenotypes of macrophage polarization, and involves in diverse biological processes. The polarization process is initiated at the command of numerous components. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are RNAs longer than 200 nucleotides with limited protein-coding capacity. Recent studies have revealed a newly found subset of lncRNAs engaged in the M2 polarization and their potent and multifunctional roles in developing diseases. By interfering with specific signaling pathways and altering the active mode, acting as the sponges of microRNAs or decoys of transcription factors, lncRNAs prompted macrophages to an M2 phenotype. Further, lncRNAs can bind to the genome to regulate the chromatin dynamics or work as a platform for protein complexes tether. Exosomal lncRNAs can also orchestrate the polarization in a paracrine way. To make it easier to interpret the roles of lncRNAs in the M2 polarization, we review the reported lncRNAs according to the underlying mechanisms. Moreover, we discuss the possibilities of targeting macrophages' M2 polarization using the oligonucleotides drugs or clustered regularly interspaced palindromic repeats (CRISPR) technologies to provoke wisdom on the therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Dong
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Clinical Cancer Pharmacology and Toxicology Research of Zhejiang Province, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Bo Zhang
- Translational Medicine Research Center, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 31006, China
| | - Biqin Tan
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Clinical Cancer Pharmacology and Toxicology Research of Zhejiang Province, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Nengming Lin
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Clinical Cancer Pharmacology and Toxicology Research of Zhejiang Province, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310006, China; Translational Medicine Research Center, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 31006, China.
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Kantor A, McClements ME, Peddle CF, Fry LE, Salman A, Cehajic-Kapetanovic J, Xue K, MacLaren RE. CRISPR genome engineering for retinal diseases. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2021; 182:29-79. [PMID: 34175046 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2021.01.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Novel gene therapy treatments for inherited retinal diseases have been at the forefront of translational medicine over the past couple of decades. Since the discovery of CRISPR mechanisms and their potential application for the treatment of inherited human conditions, it seemed inevitable that advances would soon be made using retinal models of disease. The development of CRISPR technology for gene therapy and its increasing potential to selectively target disease-causing nucleotide changes has been rapid. In this chapter, we discuss the currently available CRISPR toolkit and how it has been and can be applied in the future for the treatment of inherited retinal diseases. These blinding conditions have until now had limited opportunity for successful therapeutic intervention, but the discovery of CRISPR has created new hope of achieving such, as we discuss within this chapter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariel Kantor
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences & NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.
| | - Michelle E McClements
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences & NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Caroline F Peddle
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences & NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Lewis E Fry
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences & NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom; Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Ahmed Salman
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences & NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Jasmina Cehajic-Kapetanovic
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences & NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom; Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Kanmin Xue
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences & NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom; Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Robert E MacLaren
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences & NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom; Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
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