1
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Ismail AM, Witt E, Bouwman T, Clark W, Yates B, Franco M, Fong S. The longitudinal kinetics of AAV5 vector integration profiles and evaluation of clonal expansion in mice. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2024; 32:101294. [PMID: 39104575 PMCID: PMC11298592 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2024.101294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024]
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV)-based vectors are used clinically for gene transfer and persist as extrachromosomal episomes. A small fraction of vector genomes integrate into the host genome, but the theoretical risk of tumorigenesis depends on vector regulatory features. A mouse model was used to investigate integration profiles of an AAV serotype 5 (AAV5) vector produced using Sf and HEK293 cells that mimic key features of valoctocogene roxaparvovec (AAV5-hFVIII-SQ), a gene therapy for severe hemophilia A. The majority (95%) of vector genome reads were derived from episomes, and mean (± standard deviation) integration frequency was 2.70 ± 1.26 and 1.79 ± 0.86 integrations per 1,000 cells for Sf- and HEK293-produced vector. Longitudinal integration analysis suggested integrations occur primarily within 1 week, at low frequency, and their abundance was stable over time. Integration profiles were polyclonal and randomly distributed. No major differences in integration profiles were observed for either vector production platform, and no integrations were associated with clonal expansion. Integrations were enriched near transcription start sites of genes highly expressed in the liver (p = 1 × 10-4) and less enriched for genes of lower expression. We found no evidence of tumorigenesis or fibrosis caused by the vector integrations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Evan Witt
- BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc., Novato, CA 94949, USA
| | | | - Wyatt Clark
- BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc., Novato, CA 94949, USA
| | | | - Matteo Franco
- ProtaGene CGT GmbH, Heidelberg 69120, Germany
- ProtaGene Inc., Burlington, MA 01803, USA
| | - Sylvia Fong
- BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc., Novato, CA 94949, USA
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2
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Rosenberg JB, Fung EK, Dyke JP, De BP, Lou H, Kelly JM, Reejhsinghani L, Ricart Arbona RJ, Sondhi D, Kaminsky SM, Cartier N, Hinderer C, Hordeaux J, Wilson JM, Ballon DJ, Crystal RG. Positron Emission Tomography Quantitative Assessment of Off-Target Whole-Body Biodistribution of I-124-Labeled Adeno-Associated Virus Capsids Administered to Cerebral Spinal Fluid. Hum Gene Ther 2023; 34:1095-1106. [PMID: 37624734 PMCID: PMC10659018 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2023.060] [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: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Based on studies in experimental animals demonstrating that administration of adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors to the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is an effective route to transfer genes to the nervous system, there are increasing number of clinical trials using the CSF route to treat nervous system disorders. With the knowledge that the CSF turns over four to five times daily, and evidence in experimental animals that at least some of CSF administered AAV vectors are distributed to systemic organs, we asked: with AAV administration to the CSF, what fraction of the total dose remains in the nervous system and what fraction goes off target and is delivered systemically? To quantify the biodistribution of AAV capsids immediately after administration, we covalently labeled AAV capsids with iodine 124 (I-124), a cyclotron generated positron emitter, enabling quantitative positron emission tomography scanning of capsid distribution for up to 96 h after AAV vector administration. We assessed the biodistribution to nonhuman primates of I-124-labeled capsids from different AAV clades, including 9 (clade F), rh.10 (E), PHP.eB (F), hu68 (F), and rh91(A). The analysis demonstrated that 60-90% of AAV vectors administered to the CSF through either the intracisternal or intrathecal (lumbar) routes distributed systemically to major organs. These observations have potentially significant clinical implications regarding accuracy of AAV vector dosing to the nervous system, evoking systemic immunity at levels similar to that with systemic administration, and potential toxicity of genes designed to treat nervous system disorders being expressed in non-nervous system organs. Based on these data, individuals in clinical trials using AAV vectors administered to the CSF should be monitored for systemic as well as nervous system adverse events and CNS dosing considerations should account for a significant AAV systemic distribution.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Edward K. Fung
- Department of Radiology, Citigroup Biomedical Imaging Center; Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Jonathan P. Dyke
- Department of Radiology, Citigroup Biomedical Imaging Center; Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | | | | | - James M. Kelly
- Department of Radiology, Citigroup Biomedical Imaging Center; Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Layla Reejhsinghani
- Department of Radiology, Citigroup Biomedical Imaging Center; Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Rodolfo J. Ricart Arbona
- Center for Comparative Medicine and Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | | | | | - Nathalie Cartier
- Neurogencell INSERM U1127 Paris Brain Institute, Paris Sorbonne University, Paris, France; and
| | - Christian Hinderer
- Gene Therapy Program, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Juliette Hordeaux
- Gene Therapy Program, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - James M. Wilson
- Gene Therapy Program, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Douglas J. Ballon
- Department of Genetic Medicine
- Department of Radiology, Citigroup Biomedical Imaging Center; Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
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3
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McElvaney OF, Fraughen DD, McElvaney OJ, Carroll TP, McElvaney NG. Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency: current therapy and emerging targets. Expert Rev Respir Med 2023; 17:191-202. [PMID: 36896570 DOI: 10.1080/17476348.2023.2174973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/11/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Alpha1 antitrypsin deficiency (AATD), a common hereditary disorder affecting mainly lungs, liver and skin has been the focus of some of the most exciting therapeutic approaches in medicine in the past 5 years. In this review, we discuss the therapies presently available for the different manifestations of AATD and new therapies in the pipeline. AREAS COVERED We review therapeutic options for the individual lung, liver and skin manifestations of AATD along with approaches which aim to treat all three. Along with this renewed interest in treating AATD come challenges. How is AAT best delivered to the lung? What is the desired level of AAT in the circulation and lungs which therapeutics should aim to provide? Will treating the liver disease increase the potential for lung disease? Are there treatments to target the underlying genetic defect with the potential to prevent all aspects of AATDrelated disease? EXPERT OPINION With a relatively small population able to participate in clinical studies, increased awareness and diagnosis of AATD is urgently needed. Better, more sensitive clinical parameters will assist in the generation of acceptable and robust evidence of therapeutic effect for current and emerging treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oisín F McElvaney
- Irish Centre for Genetic Lung Disease, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland.,Department of Medicine, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Daniel D Fraughen
- Irish Centre for Genetic Lung Disease, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland.,Department of Medicine, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Oliver J McElvaney
- Irish Centre for Genetic Lung Disease, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland.,Department of Medicine, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Tomás P Carroll
- Irish Centre for Genetic Lung Disease, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland.,Department of Medicine, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Ireland.,Alpha-1 Foundation Ireland, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Noel G McElvaney
- Irish Centre for Genetic Lung Disease, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland.,Department of Medicine, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
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4
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Issa SS, Shaimardanova AA, Solovyeva VV, Rizvanov AA. Various AAV Serotypes and Their Applications in Gene Therapy: An Overview. Cells 2023; 12:cells12050785. [PMID: 36899921 PMCID: PMC10000783 DOI: 10.3390/cells12050785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 56.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite scientific discoveries in the field of gene and cell therapy, some diseases still have no effective treatment. Advances in genetic engineering methods have enabled the development of effective gene therapy methods for various diseases based on adeno-associated viruses (AAVs). Today, many AAV-based gene therapy medications are being investigated in preclinical and clinical trials, and new ones are appearing on the market. In this article, we present a review of AAV discovery, properties, different serotypes, and tropism, and a following detailed explanation of their uses in gene therapy for disease of different organs and systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaza S. Issa
- Department of Genetics and Biotechnology, St. Petersburg State University, 199034 St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Alisa A. Shaimardanova
- Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan Federal University, 420008 Kazan, Russia
| | - Valeriya V. Solovyeva
- Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan Federal University, 420008 Kazan, Russia
| | - Albert A. Rizvanov
- Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan Federal University, 420008 Kazan, Russia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +7-(905)-3167599
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5
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Thakre PP, Rana S, Benevides ES, Fuller DD. Targeting drug or gene delivery to the phrenic motoneuron pool. J Neurophysiol 2023; 129:144-158. [PMID: 36416447 PMCID: PMC9829468 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00432.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 11/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Phrenic motoneurons (PhrMNs) innervate diaphragm myofibers. Located in the ventral gray matter (lamina IX), PhrMNs form a column extending from approximately the third to sixth cervical spinal segment. Phrenic motor output and diaphragm activation are impaired in many neuromuscular diseases, and targeted delivery of drugs and/or genetic material to PhrMNs may have therapeutic application. Studies of phrenic motor control and/or neuroplasticity mechanisms also typically require targeting of PhrMNs with drugs, viral vectors, or tracers. The location of the phrenic motoneuron pool, however, poses a challenge. Selective PhrMN targeting is possible with molecules that move retrogradely upon uptake into phrenic axons subsequent to diaphragm or phrenic nerve delivery. However, nonspecific approaches that use intrathecal or intravenous delivery have considerably advanced the understanding of PhrMN control. New opportunities for targeted PhrMN gene expression may be possible with intersectional genetic methods. This article provides an overview of methods for targeting the phrenic motoneuron pool for studies of PhrMNs in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prajwal P Thakre
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
- McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
- Breathing Research and Therapeutics Center, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Sabhya Rana
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
- McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
- Breathing Research and Therapeutics Center, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Ethan S Benevides
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
- McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
- Breathing Research and Therapeutics Center, Gainesville, Florida
| | - David D Fuller
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
- McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
- Breathing Research and Therapeutics Center, Gainesville, Florida
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6
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Handyside B, Ismail AM, Zhang L, Yates B, Xie L, Sihn CR, Murphy R, Bouwman T, Kim CK, De Angelis R, Karim OA, McIntosh NL, Doss MX, Shroff S, Pungor E, Bhat VS, Bullens S, Bunting S, Fong S. Vector genome loss and epigenetic modifications mediate decline in transgene expression of AAV5 vectors produced in mammalian and insect cells. Mol Ther 2022; 30:3570-3586. [PMID: 36348622 PMCID: PMC9734079 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2022.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Revised: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) vectors are often produced in HEK293 or Spodoptera frugiperda (Sf)-based cell lines. We compared expression profiles of "oversized" (∼5,000 bp) and "standard-sized" (4,600 bp) rAAV5-human α1-antitrypsin (rAAV5-hA1AT) vectors manufactured in HEK293 or Sf cells and investigated molecular mechanisms mediating expression decline. C57BL/6 mice received 6 × 1013 vg/kg of vector, and blood and liver samples were collected through week 57. For all vectors, peak expression (weeks 12-24) declined by 50% to week 57. For Sf- and HEK293-produced oversized vectors, serum hA1AT was initially comparable, but in weeks 12-57, Sf vectors provided significantly higher expression. For HEK293 oversized vectors, liver genomes decreased continuously through week 57 and significantly correlated with A1AT protein. In RNA-sequencing analysis, HEK293 vector-treated mice had significantly higher inflammatory responses in liver at 12 weeks compared with Sf vector- and vehicle-treated mice. Thus, HEK293 vector genome loss led to decreased transgene protein. For Sf-produced vectors, genomes did not decrease from peak expression. Instead, vector genome accessibility significantly decreased from peak to week 57 and correlated with transgene RNA. Vector DNA interactions with active histone marks (H3K27ac/H3K4me3) were significantly reduced from peak to week 57, suggesting that epigenetic regulation impacts transgene expression of Sf-produced vectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Britta Handyside
- BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc., 105 Digital Drive, Novato, CA 94949, USA
| | | | - Lening Zhang
- BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc., 105 Digital Drive, Novato, CA 94949, USA
| | - Bridget Yates
- BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc., 105 Digital Drive, Novato, CA 94949, USA
| | - Lin Xie
- BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc., 105 Digital Drive, Novato, CA 94949, USA
| | - Choong-Ryoul Sihn
- BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc., 105 Digital Drive, Novato, CA 94949, USA
| | - Ryan Murphy
- BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc., 105 Digital Drive, Novato, CA 94949, USA
| | - Taren Bouwman
- BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc., 105 Digital Drive, Novato, CA 94949, USA
| | - Chan Kyu Kim
- BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc., 105 Digital Drive, Novato, CA 94949, USA
| | | | - Omair A. Karim
- BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc., 105 Digital Drive, Novato, CA 94949, USA
| | | | | | - Shilpa Shroff
- BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc., 105 Digital Drive, Novato, CA 94949, USA
| | - Erno Pungor
- BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc., 105 Digital Drive, Novato, CA 94949, USA
| | - Vikas S. Bhat
- BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc., 105 Digital Drive, Novato, CA 94949, USA
| | - Sherry Bullens
- BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc., 105 Digital Drive, Novato, CA 94949, USA
| | - Stuart Bunting
- BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc., 105 Digital Drive, Novato, CA 94949, USA
| | - Sylvia Fong
- BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc., 105 Digital Drive, Novato, CA 94949, USA,Corresponding author: Sylvia Fong, BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc., 105 Digital Drive, Novato, CA 94949, USA.
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7
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McLachlan G, Alton EWFW, Boyd AC, Clarke NK, Davies JC, Gill DR, Griesenbach U, Hickmott JW, Hyde SC, Miah KM, Molina CJ. Progress in Respiratory Gene Therapy. Hum Gene Ther 2022; 33:893-912. [PMID: 36074947 PMCID: PMC7615302 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2022.172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The prospect of gene therapy for inherited and acquired respiratory disease has energized the research community since the 1980s, with cystic fibrosis, as a monogenic disorder, driving early efforts to develop effective strategies. The fact that there are still no approved gene therapy products for the lung, despite many early phase clinical trials, illustrates the scale of the challenge: In the 1990s, first-generation non-viral and viral vector systems demonstrated proof-of-concept but low efficacy. Since then, there has been steady progress toward improved vectors with the capacity to overcome at least some of the formidable barriers presented by the lung. In addition, the inclusion of features such as codon optimization and promoters providing long-term expression have improved the expression characteristics of therapeutic transgenes. Early approaches were based on gene addition, where a new DNA copy of a gene is introduced to complement a genetic mutation: however, the advent of RNA-based products that can directly express a therapeutic protein or manipulate gene expression, together with the expanding range of tools for gene editing, has stimulated the development of alternative approaches. This review discusses the range of vector systems being evaluated for lung delivery; the variety of cargoes they deliver, including DNA, antisense oligonucleotides, messenger RNA (mRNA), small interfering RNA (siRNA), and peptide nucleic acids; and exemplifies progress in selected respiratory disease indications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerry McLachlan
- The Roslin Institute & R(D)SVS, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- UK Respiratory Gene Therapy Consortium, London, United Kingdom
| | - Eric W F W Alton
- UK Respiratory Gene Therapy Consortium, London, United Kingdom
- Gene Therapy Group, National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - A Christopher Boyd
- UK Respiratory Gene Therapy Consortium, London, United Kingdom
- Centre for Genomic and Experimental Medicine, IGMM, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Nora K Clarke
- UK Respiratory Gene Therapy Consortium, London, United Kingdom
- Gene Therapy Group, National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jane C Davies
- UK Respiratory Gene Therapy Consortium, London, United Kingdom
- Gene Therapy Group, National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Deborah R Gill
- UK Respiratory Gene Therapy Consortium, London, United Kingdom
- Gene Medicine Group, Radcliffe Department of Medicine (NDCLS), University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Uta Griesenbach
- UK Respiratory Gene Therapy Consortium, London, United Kingdom
- Gene Therapy Group, National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jack W Hickmott
- UK Respiratory Gene Therapy Consortium, London, United Kingdom
- Gene Therapy Group, National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Stephen C Hyde
- UK Respiratory Gene Therapy Consortium, London, United Kingdom
- Gene Medicine Group, Radcliffe Department of Medicine (NDCLS), University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Kamran M Miah
- UK Respiratory Gene Therapy Consortium, London, United Kingdom
- Gene Medicine Group, Radcliffe Department of Medicine (NDCLS), University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Claudia Juarez Molina
- UK Respiratory Gene Therapy Consortium, London, United Kingdom
- Gene Therapy Group, National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
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8
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Novel Gene-Correction-Based Therapeutic Modalities for Monogenic Liver Disorders. Bioengineering (Basel) 2022; 9:bioengineering9080392. [PMID: 36004917 PMCID: PMC9404740 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering9080392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The majority of monogenic liver diseases are autosomal recessive disorders, with few being sex-related or co-dominant. Although orthotopic liver transplantation (LT) is currently the sole therapeutic option for end-stage patients, such an invasive surgical approach is severely restricted by the lack of donors and post-transplant complications, mainly associated with life-long immunosuppressive regimens. Therefore, the last decade has witnessed efforts for innovative cellular or gene-based therapeutic strategies. Gene therapy is a promising approach for treatment of many hereditary disorders, such as monogenic inborn errors. The liver is an organ characterized by unique features, making it an attractive target for in vivo and ex vivo gene transfer. The current genetic approaches for hereditary liver diseases are mediated by viral or non-viral vectors, with promising results generated by gene-editing tools, such as CRISPR-Cas9 technology. Despite massive progress in experimental gene-correction technologies, limitations in validated approaches for monogenic liver disorders have encouraged researchers to refine promising gene therapy protocols. Herein, we highlighted the most common monogenetic liver disorders, followed by proposed genetic engineering approaches, offered as promising therapeutic modalities.
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9
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Li M, Chen J, Liu Y, Zhao J, Li Y, Hu Y, Chen YQ, Sun L, Shu Y, Feng F, Sun C. Rational design of AAVrh10-vectored ACE2 functional domain to broadly block the cell entry of SARS-CoV-2 variants. Antiviral Res 2022; 205:105383. [PMID: 35917969 PMCID: PMC9338828 DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2022.105383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2022] [Revised: 07/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The frequently emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants have weakened the effectiveness of existing COVID-19 vaccines and neutralizing antibody therapy. Nevertheless, the infections of SARS-CoV-2 variants still depend on angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor-mediated cell entry, and thus the soluble human ACE2 (shACE2) is a potential decoy for broadly blocking SARS-CoV-2 variants. In this study, we firstly generated the recombinant AAVrh10-vectored shACE2 constructs, a kind of adeno-associated virus (AAV) serotype with pulmonary tissue tropism, and then validated its inhibition capacity against SARS-CoV-2 infection. To further optimize the minimized ACE2 functional domain candidates, a comprehensive analysis was performed to clarify the interactions between the ACE2 orthologs from various species and the receptor binding domain (RBD) of SARS-CoV-2 spike (S) protein. Based on the key interface amino acids, we designed a series of truncated ACE2 orthologs, and then assessed their potential affinity to bind to SARS-CoV-2 variants RBD in silico. Of note, we found that the 24-83aa fragment of dog ACE2 (dACE224-83) had a higher affinity to the RBD of SARS-CoV-2 variants than that of human ACE2. Importantly, AAVrh10-vectored shACE2 or dACE224-83 constructs exhibited a broadly blockage breadth against SARS-CoV-2 prototype and variants in vitro and ex vivo. Collectively, these data highlighted a promising therapeutic strategy against SARS-CoV-2 variants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minchao Li
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China
| | - Jiaoshan Chen
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China
| | - Yajie Liu
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China
| | - Jin Zhao
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China
| | - Yanjun Li
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China
| | - Yunqi Hu
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China
| | - Yao-Qing Chen
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China; Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control (Sun Yat-sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Litao Sun
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China; Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control (Sun Yat-sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Yuelong Shu
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China; NHC Key Laboratory of System Biology of Pathogens, Institute of Pathogen Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 100730, Beijing, PR China.
| | - Fengling Feng
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China; Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control (Sun Yat-sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, 510080, China.
| | - Caijun Sun
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China; Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control (Sun Yat-sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, 510080, China.
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10
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Zieger M, Borel F, Greer C, Gernoux G, Blackwood M, Flotte TR, Mueller C. Liver-directed SERPINA1 gene therapy attenuates progression of spontaneous and tobacco smoke-induced emphysema in α1-antitrypsin null mice. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2022; 25:425-438. [PMID: 35592360 PMCID: PMC9097330 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2022.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Accepted: 04/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
α1-antitrypsin deficiency is a rare genetic condition that can cause liver and/or lung disease. There is currently no cure for this disorder, although repeated infusions of plasma-purified protein may slow down emphysema progression. Gene therapy in which a single recombinant adeno-associated viral vector (rAAV) administration would lead to sustained protein expression could therefore similarly affect disease progression, and provide the added benefits of reducing treatment burden and thereby improving the patient’s quality of life. The study presented here tests whether treating the Serpina1a-e knockout mouse model of α1-antitrypsin-deficiency lung disease with gene therapy would have an impact on the disease course, either on spontaneous disease caused by aging or on accelerated disease caused by exposure to cigarette smoke. Liver-directed gene therapy led to dose-dependent levels of biologically active human α1-antitrypsin protein. Furthermore, decreased lung compliance and increased elastic recoil indicate that treated mice had largely preserved lung tissue elasticity and alveolar wall integrity compared with untreated mice. rAAV-mediated gene augmentation is therefore able to compensate for the loss of function and restore a beneficial lung protease-antiprotease balance. This work constitutes a preclinical study report of a disease-modifying treatment in the Serpina1a-e knockout mouse model using a liver-specific rAAV serotype 8 capsid.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Zieger
- The Li Weibo Institute for Rare Diseases Research, Horae Gene Therapy Center, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Florie Borel
- The Li Weibo Institute for Rare Diseases Research, Horae Gene Therapy Center, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Cynthia Greer
- The Li Weibo Institute for Rare Diseases Research, Horae Gene Therapy Center, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Gwladys Gernoux
- The Li Weibo Institute for Rare Diseases Research, Horae Gene Therapy Center, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 01605, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Meghan Blackwood
- The Li Weibo Institute for Rare Diseases Research, Horae Gene Therapy Center, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Terence R Flotte
- The Li Weibo Institute for Rare Diseases Research, Horae Gene Therapy Center, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 01605, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Christian Mueller
- The Li Weibo Institute for Rare Diseases Research, Horae Gene Therapy Center, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 01605, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
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11
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Stiles K, Frenk EZ, Kaminsky SM, Crystal RG. Genetic Modification of the AAV5 Capsid with Lysine Residues Results in a Lung-tropic, Liver-detargeted Gene Transfer Vector. Hum Gene Ther 2022; 33:148-154. [PMID: 35018834 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2021.200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Intravenous (IV) administration of naturally occurring adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors are liver tropic, with a significant proportion of the total vector dose mediating gene expression in liver hepatocytes. AAV capsids that are directed towards other organs such as lung may be useful for therapy of non-liver-based diseases. Based on the knowledge that the lung capillary endothelium is the first capillary bed encountered by an intravenously administered AAV vector, and that the lung endothelium glycocalyx is enriched in negatively charged sialic acid, we hypothesized that adding positively changed lysine residues to the AAV capsid would enhance AAV biodistribution to the lung following intravenous administration. Using site directed mutagenesis, two lysine residues were inserted into variable loop VIII of the AAV serotype 5 capsid vector (AAV5-PK2). Organ distribution of AAV5-PK2 was compared to AAV5, AAVrh.10, AAV2, and AAV2-7m8 4 wk after intravenous administration (1011 gc) to C57Bl/6 male mice. As predicted, following intravenous administration, AAAV5-PK2 had the highest biodistribution in the lung (p<0.02 compared to AAV5, AAVrh.10, AAV2 and AAV2-7m8). Further, biodistribution to liver of AAV5-PK2 was 2-logs decreased compared to AAV5 (p<10-4) with a ratio of AAV5-PK2 lung to liver of 62-fold compared to AAV5 of 0.2-fold (p<0.0003). The AAV5-PK2 capsid represents a lung-tropic AAV vector that is also significantly detargeted from the liver, a property that may be useful in lung directed gene therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie Stiles
- Weill Cornell Medicine, 12295, New York, New York, United States;
| | - Esther Z Frenk
- Weill Cornell Medical College, 12295, 1300 York Avenue, New York, New York, United States, 10065;
| | | | - Ronald G Crystal
- Weill Medical College of Cornell University, Department of Genetic Medicine, 1300 York Avenue, Box 96, New York, New York, United States, 10021;
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12
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Pulmonary transplantation of alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT)-transgenic macrophages provides a source of functional human AAT in vivo. Gene Ther 2021; 28:477-493. [PMID: 34276045 PMCID: PMC8455329 DOI: 10.1038/s41434-021-00269-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Inherited deficiency of the antiprotease alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT) is associated with liver failure and early-onset emphysema. In mice, in vivo lentiviral transduction of alveolar macrophages (AMs) has been described to yield protective pulmonary AAT levels and ameliorate emphysema development. We here investigated the pulmonary transplantation of macrophages (PMT) transgenic for AAT as a potential therapy for AAT deficiency-associated lung pathology. Employing third-generation SIN-lentiviral vectors expressing the human AAT cDNA from the CAG or Cbx-EF1α promoter, we obtained high-level AAT secretion in a murine AM cell line as well as murine bone marrow-derived macrophages differentiated in vitro (AAT MΦ). Secreted AAT demonstrated a physiologic glycosylation pattern as well as elastase-inhibitory and anti-apoptotic properties. AAT MΦ preserved normal morphology, surface phenotype, and functionality. Furthermore, in vitro generated murine AAT MΦ successfully engrafted in AM-deficient Csf2rb-/- mice and converted into a CD11c+/Siglec-F+ AM phenotype as detected in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and homogenized lung tissue 2 months after PMT. Moreover, human AAT was detected in the lung epithelial lining fluid of transplanted animals. Efficient AAT expression and secretion were also demonstrated for human AAT MΦ, confirming the applicability of our vectors in human cells.
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13
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Rosenberg JB, Chen A, De BP, Dyke JP, Ballon DJ, Monette S, Ricart Arbona RJ, Kaminsky SM, Crystal RG, Sondhi D. Safety of Direct Intraparenchymal AAVrh.10-Mediated Central Nervous System Gene Therapy for Metachromatic Leukodystrophy. Hum Gene Ther 2021; 32:563-580. [PMID: 33380277 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2020.269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Metachromatic leukodystrophy, a fatal pediatric neurodegenerative lysosomal storage disease caused by mutations in the arylsulfatase A (ARSA) gene, is characterized by intracellular accumulation of sulfatides in the lysosomes of cells of the central nervous system (CNS). In previous studies, we have demonstrated efficacy of AAVrh.10hARSA, an adeno-associated virus (AAV) serotype rh.10 vector coding for the human ARSA gene to the CNS of a mouse model of the disease, and that catheter-based intraparenchymal administration of AAVrh.10hARSA to the CNS of nonhuman primates (NHPs) white matter results in widespread expression of ARSA. As a formal dose-escalating safety/toxicology study, we assessed the safety of intraparenchymal delivery of AAVrh.10hARSA vector to 12 sites in the white matter of the CNS of NHPs at 2.85 × 1010 (total low dose, 2.4 × 109 genome copies [gc]/site) and 1.5 × 1012 (total high dose, 1.3 × 1011 gc/site) gc, compared to AAVrh.10Null (1.5 × 1012 gc total, 1.3 × 1011 gc/site) as a vector control, and phosphate buffered saline for a sham surgical control. No significant adverse effects were observed in animals treated with low dose AAVrh.10hARSA. However, animals treated with the high dose AAVrh.10ARSA and the high dose Null vector had highly localized CNS abnormalities on magnetic resonance imaging scans at the sites of catheter infusions, and histopathology demonstrated that these sites were associated with infiltrates of T cells, B cells, microglial cells, and/or macrophages. Although these findings had no clinical consequences, these safety data contribute to understanding the dose limits for CNS white matter direct intraparenchymal administration of AAVrh.10 vectors for treatment of CNS disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan B Rosenberg
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, USA
| | - Alvin Chen
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, USA
| | - Bishnu P De
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, USA
| | - Jonathan P Dyke
- Department of Radiology, Citigroup Biomedical Imaging Center, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, USA
| | - Douglas J Ballon
- Department of Radiology, Citigroup Biomedical Imaging Center, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, USA
| | - Sebastien Monette
- Center for Comparative Medicine and Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Rodolfo J Ricart Arbona
- Center for Comparative Medicine and Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Stephen M Kaminsky
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, USA
| | - Ronald G Crystal
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, USA
| | - Dolan Sondhi
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, USA
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14
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McNulty MJ, Silberstein DZ, Kuhn BT, Padgett HS, Nandi S, McDonald KA, Cross CE. Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency and recombinant protein sources with focus on plant sources: Updates, challenges and perspectives. Free Radic Biol Med 2021; 163:10-30. [PMID: 33279618 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2020.11.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Revised: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (A1ATD) is an autosomal recessive disease characterized by low plasma levels of A1AT, a serine protease inhibitor representing the most abundant circulating antiprotease normally present at plasma levels of 1-2 g/L. The dominant clinical manifestations include predispositions to early onset emphysema due to protease/antiprotease imbalance in distal lung parenchyma and liver disease largely due to unsecreted polymerized accumulations of misfolded mutant A1AT within the endoplasmic reticulum of hepatocytes. Since 1987, the only FDA licensed specific therapy for the emphysema component has been infusions of A1AT purified from pooled human plasma at the 2020 cost of up to US $200,000/year with the risk of intermittent shortages. In the past three decades various, potentially less expensive, recombinant forms of human A1AT have reached early stages of development, one of which is just reaching the stage of human clinical trials. The focus of this review is to update strategies for the treatment of the pulmonary component of A1ATD with some focus on perspectives for therapeutic production and regulatory approval of a recombinant product from plants. We review other competitive technologies for treating the lung disease manifestations of A1ATD, highlight strategies for the generation of data potentially helpful for securing FDA Investigational New Drug (IND) approval and present challenges in the selection of clinical trial strategies required for FDA licensing of a New Drug Approval (NDA) for this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J McNulty
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - David Z Silberstein
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Brooks T Kuhn
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA; University of California, Davis, Alpha-1 Deficiency Clinic, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | | | - Somen Nandi
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of California, Davis, CA, USA; Global HealthShare Initiative®, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Karen A McDonald
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of California, Davis, CA, USA; Global HealthShare Initiative®, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Carroll E Cross
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA; University of California, Davis, Alpha-1 Deficiency Clinic, Sacramento, CA, USA; Department of Physiology and Membrane Biology, University of California, Davis, CA, USA.
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15
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Bharadwaj A, Wahi N, Saxena A. Occurrence of Inborn Errors of Metabolism in Newborns, Diagnosis and Prophylaxis. Endocr Metab Immune Disord Drug Targets 2020; 21:592-616. [PMID: 33357204 DOI: 10.2174/1871530321666201223110918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Revised: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Inborn errors of metabolism (IEM) are a heterogeneous group of rare genetic disorders that are generally transmitted as autosomal or X-linked recessive disorders. These defects arise due to mutations associated with specific gene(s), especially the ones associated with key metabolic enzymes. These enzymes or their product(s) are involved in various metabolic pathways, leading to the accumulation of intermediary metabolite(s), reflecting their toxic effects upon mutations. The diagnosis of these metabolic disorders is based on the biochemical analysis of the clinical manifestations produced and their molecular mechanism. Therefore, it is imperative to devise diagnostic tests with high sensitivity and specificity for early detection of IEM. Recent advances in biochemical and polymerase chain reaction-based genetic analysis along with pedigree and prenatal diagnosis can be life-saving in nature. The latest development in exome sequencing for rapid diagnosis and enzyme replacement therapy would facilitate the successful treatment of these metabolic disorders in the future. However, the longterm clinical implications of these genetic manipulations is still a matter of debate among intellectuals and requires further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alok Bharadwaj
- Department of Biotechnology, GLA University, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Nitin Wahi
- Department of Bioinformatics, Pathfinder Research and Training Foundation, Greater Noida - 201308, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Aditya Saxena
- Department of Biotechnology, GLA University, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India
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16
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Abstract
AAT (alpha-1 antitrypsin) deficiency (AATD), characterized by low levels of circulating serine protease inhibitor AAT, results in emphysematous destruction of the lung. Inherited serum deficiency disorders, such as hemophilia and AATD, have been considered ideal candidates for gene therapy. Although viral vector-meditated transduction of the liver has demonstrated utility in hemophilia, similar success has not been achieved for AATD. The challenge for AAT gene therapy is achieving protective levels of AAT locally in the lung and mitigating potential liver toxicities linked to systemically administered viral vectors. Current strategies with ongoing clinical trials involve different routes of adeno-associated virus administrations, such as intramuscular and intrapleural injections, to provide consistent therapeutic levels from nonhepatic organ sites. Nevertheless, exploration of alternative methods of nonhepatic sourcing of AAT has been of great interest in the field. In this regard, pulmonary endothelium-targeted adenovirus vector could be a key technical mandate to achieve local augmentation of AAT within the lower respiratory tract, with the potential benefit of circumventing liver toxicities. In addition, incorporation of the CRISPR/Cas9 (CRISPR-associated protein 9) nuclease system into gene-delivery technologies has provided adjunctive technologies that could fully realize a one-time treatment for sustained, lifelong expression of AAT in patients with AATD. This review will focus on the adeno-associated virus- and adenoviral vector-mediated gene therapy strategies for the pulmonary manifestations of AATD and show that endeavoring to use genome-editing techniques will advance the current strategy to one fully compatible with direct human translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reka Lorincz
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Biologic Therapeutics Center, School of Medicine, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - David T Curiel
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Biologic Therapeutics Center, School of Medicine, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri
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17
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Ballon DJ, Rosenberg JB, Fung EK, Nikolopoulou A, Kothari P, De BP, He B, Chen A, Heier LA, Sondhi D, Kaminsky SM, Mozley PD, Babich JW, Crystal RG. Quantitative Whole-Body Imaging of I-124-Labeled Adeno-Associated Viral Vector Biodistribution in Nonhuman Primates. Hum Gene Ther 2020; 31:1237-1259. [PMID: 33233962 PMCID: PMC7769048 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2020.116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
A method is presented for quantitative analysis of the biodistribution of adeno-associated virus (AAV) gene transfer vectors following in vivo administration. We used iodine-124 (I-124) radiolabeling of the AAV capsid and positron emission tomography combined with compartmental modeling to quantify whole-body and organ-specific biodistribution of AAV capsids from 1 to 72 h following administration. Using intravenous (IV) and intracisternal (IC) routes of administration of AAVrh.10 and AAV9 vectors to nonhuman primates in the absence or presence of anticapsid immunity, we have identified novel insights into initial capsid biodistribution and organ-specific capsid half-life. Neither I-124-labeled AAVrh.10 nor AAV9 administered intravenously was detected at significant levels in the brain relative to the administered vector dose. Approximately 50% of the intravenously administered labeled capsids were dispersed throughout the body, independent of the liver, heart, and spleen. When administered by the IC route, the labeled capsid had a half-life of ∼10 h in the cerebral spinal fluid (CSF), suggesting that by this route, the CSF serves as a source with slow diffusion into the brain. For both IV and IC administration, there was significant influence of pre-existing anticapsid immunity on I-124-capsid biodistribution. The methodology facilitates quantitative in vivo viral vector dosimetry, which can serve as a technique for evaluation of both on- and off-target organ biodistribution, and potentially accelerate gene therapy development through rapid prototyping of novel vector designs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas J. Ballon
- Department of Radiology, Citigroup Biomedical Imaging Center
- Department of Genetic Medicine
| | | | - Edward K. Fung
- Department of Radiology, Citigroup Biomedical Imaging Center
| | | | - Paresh Kothari
- Department of Radiology, Citigroup Biomedical Imaging Center
| | | | - Bin He
- Department of Radiology, Citigroup Biomedical Imaging Center
| | | | - Linda A. Heier
- Department of Radiology; Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, USA
| | | | | | | | - John W. Babich
- Department of Radiology, Citigroup Biomedical Imaging Center
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18
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Carneiro A, Lee H, Lin L, van Haasteren J, Schaffer DV. Novel Lung Tropic Adeno-Associated Virus Capsids for Therapeutic Gene Delivery. Hum Gene Ther 2020; 31:996-1009. [PMID: 32799685 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2020.169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Efforts to identify mutations that underlie inherited genetic diseases combined with strides in the development of gene therapy vectors over the last three decades have culminated in the approval of several adeno-associated virus (AAV)-based gene therapies. Genetic diseases that manifest in the lung such as cystic fibrosis (CF) and surfactant deficiencies, however, have so far proven to be elusive targets. Early clinical trials in CF using AAV serotype 2 (AAV2) achieved safety, but not efficacy endpoints; however, importantly, these studies provided critical information on barriers that need to be surmounted to translate AAV lung gene therapy toward clinical success. Bolstered with an improved understanding of AAV biology and more clinically relevant lung models, next-generation molecular biology and bioinformatics approaches have given rise to novel AAV capsid variants that offer improvements in transduction efficiency, immunological profile, and the ability to circumvent physical barriers in the lung such as mucus. This review discusses the principal limiting barriers to clinical success in lung gene therapy and focuses on novel engineered AAV capsid variants that have been developed to overcome those challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Carneiro
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Hyuncheol Lee
- California Institute for Quantitative Biosciences (QB3), University of California, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Li Lin
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Joost van Haasteren
- California Institute for Quantitative Biosciences (QB3), University of California, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - David V Schaffer
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, California, USA.,California Institute for Quantitative Biosciences (QB3), University of California, Berkeley, California, USA.,Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Berkeley, California, USA.,Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, California, USA.,Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California, Berkeley, California, USA.,Innovative Genomics Institute (IGI), University of California, Berkeley, California, USA
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19
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Sosulski ML, Stiles KM, Frenk EZ, Hart FM, Matsumura Y, De BP, Kaminsky SM, Crystal RG. Gene therapy for alpha 1-antitrypsin deficiency with an oxidant-resistant human alpha 1-antitrypsin. JCI Insight 2020; 5:135951. [PMID: 32759494 PMCID: PMC7455074 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.135951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2019] [Accepted: 07/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Alpha 1-antitrypsin (AAT) deficiency, a hereditary disorder characterized by low serum levels of functional AAT, is associated with early development of panacinar emphysema. AAT inhibits serine proteases, including neutrophil elastase, protecting the lung from proteolytic destruction. Cigarette smoke, pollution, and inflammatory cell–mediated oxidation of methionine (M) 351 and 358 inactivates AAT, limiting lung protection. In vitro studies using amino acid substitutions demonstrated that replacing M351 with valine (V) and M358 with leucine (L) on a normal M1 alanine (A) 213 background provided maximum antiprotease protection despite oxidant stress. We hypothesized that a onetime administration of a serotype 8 adeno-associated virus (AAV8) gene transfer vector coding for the oxidation-resistant variant AAT (A213/V351/L358; 8/AVL) would maintain antiprotease activity under oxidant stress compared with normal AAT (A213/M351/M358; 8/AMM). 8/AVL was administered via intravenous (IV) and intrapleural (IPL) routes to C57BL/6 mice. High, dose-dependent AAT levels were found in the serum and lung epithelial lining fluid (ELF) of mice administered 8/AVL or 8/AMM by IV or IPL. 8/AVL serum and ELF retained serine protease–inhibitory activity despite oxidant stress while 8/AMM function was abolished. 8/AVL represents a second-generation gene therapy for AAT deficiency providing effective antiprotease protection even with oxidant stress. A gene transfer-based therapeutic to deliver oxidant-resistant alpha 1-antitrypsin (AAT) protects mice with AAT deficiency from lung destruction.
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20
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CRISPR-Cas9 Genome Editing Tool for the Production of Industrial Biopharmaceuticals. Mol Biotechnol 2020; 62:401-411. [PMID: 32749657 DOI: 10.1007/s12033-020-00265-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
A broad range of cell lines with characteristic features are used as bio-factories to produce recombinant proteins for basic research and therapeutic purposes. Genetic engineering strategies have been used to manipulate the genome of mammalian cells, insects, and yeasts for heterologous expression. One reason is that the glycosylation pattern of the expression hosts differs somehow from mammalian cells, which may cause immunogenic reactions upon administration in humans. CRISPR-Cas9 is a simple, efficient, and versatile genome engineering tool that can be programmed to precisely make double-stranded breaks at the desired loci. Compared to the classical genome editing methods, a CRISPR-Cas9 system is an ideal tool, providing the opportunity to integrate or delete genes from the target organisms. Besides broadened applications, limited studies have used CRISPR-Cas9 for editing the endogenous pathways in expression systems for biopharmaceutical applications. In the present review, we discuss the use of CRISPR-Cas9 in expression systems to improve host cell lines, increase product yield, and humanize glycosylation pathways by targeting intrinsic genes.
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21
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Matsumura Y, Stiles KM, Reid J, Frenk EZ, Cronin S, Pagovich OE, Crystal RG. Gene Therapy Correction of Aldehyde Dehydrogenase 2 Deficiency. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2019; 15:72-82. [PMID: 31649957 PMCID: PMC6804850 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2019.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2019] [Accepted: 08/15/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (ALDH2) deficiency causes "Asian flush syndrome," presenting as alcohol-induced facial flushing, tachycardia, nausea, and headaches. One of the most common hereditary enzyme deficiencies, it affects 35%-40% of East Asians and 8% of the world population. ALDH2 is the key enzyme in ethanol metabolism; with ethanol challenge, the common ALDH2*2 (E487K) mutation results in accumulation of toxic acetaldehyde. ALDH2*2 heterozygotes have increased risk for upper digestive tract cancers, compounded by smoking and drinking alcohol. We hypothesized that a one-time administration of an adeno-associated virus (AAV) gene transfer vector expressing the human ALDH2 coding sequence (AAVrh.10hALDH2) would correct the deficiency state. AAVrh.10hALDH2 was administered intravenously to Aldh2 knockout (Aldh2 -/-) and Aldh2 E487K knockin homozygous (Aldh2 E487K+/+) mice. Following acute ethanol ingestion, untreated ALDH2-deficient mice had elevated acetaldehyde levels and performed poorly in behavioral tests. In contrast, treated Aldh2 -/- and Aldh2 E487K+/+ mice had lower serum acetaldehyde levels and improved behavior. Thus, in vivo AAV-mediated ALDH2 therapy may reverse the deficiency state in ALDH2*2 individuals, eliminating the Asian flush syndrome and reducing the risk for associated disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuki Matsumura
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Katie M. Stiles
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jasmine Reid
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Esther Z. Frenk
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Samantha Cronin
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Odelya E. Pagovich
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ronald G. Crystal
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
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22
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Mondo E, Moser R, Gao G, Mueller C, Sena-Esteves M, Sapp E, Pfister E, O'Connell D, Takle K, Erger KE, Liu W, Conlon TJ, DiFiglia M, Gounis MJ, Aronin N. Selective Neuronal Uptake and Distribution of AAVrh8, AAV9, and AAVrh10 in Sheep After Intra-Striatal Administration. J Huntingtons Dis 2019; 7:309-319. [PMID: 30320596 DOI: 10.3233/jhd-180302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transgenic sheep are currently the only large animal model of Huntington's disease expressing full-length mutant human huntingtin. These transgenic sheep provide an opportunity to test adeno associated virus (AAV) therapies directly targeting the huntingtin gene. A recent study demonstrated that self-complementary (sc) AAV with artificial miRNA against human huntingtin reduced mutant human huntingtin in caudate and putamen after a single injection near the internal capsule. OBJECTIVE To identify an AAV serotype among AAVrh8, AAV9 and AAVrh10 with the highest neuronal uptake and distribution, with no obvious cell loss in the neostriatum of the sheep. METHODS We tested AAVrh8, AAV9 and AAVrh10 by stereotactic direct unilateral injection into the neostriatum of sheep, near the internal capsule. Four weeks after administration, we examined the viral spread and neuronal uptake of each serotype of AAV containing GFP. We compared single stranded (ss) and scAAVs. Further, we measured the distribution of AAVrh8 and AAV9 to a variety of tissues outside the brain. RESULTS Sc AAV9 had the best combination of neuronal uptake and distribution throughout the neostriatum. scAAVrh10 demonstrated good spread, but was not taken up by neurons. scAAVrh8 demonstrated good spread, but had less neuronal uptake than AAV9. Six hours after convection-enhanced administration to the neostriatum, both AAVrh8 and AAV9 viral genomes were detected in blood, saliva, urine, feces and wool. By four weeks, viral genomes were detected in wool only. Administration of AAVrh8, AAV9 and AAVrh10 was not associated with loss of neostriatal, medium spiny neuron number as measured by DARPP32 immunohistochemistry. CONCLUSIONS Altogether, we found scAAV9 had the best neuronal uptake and spread, showed no loss of neurons at one-month post-injection, and was not measurable in body fluids one month after injection. This information will guide future clinical experiments requiring brain injection of AAV for therapeutics for gene or miRNA deliveries in sheep transgenic for the human huntingtin gene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Mondo
- Department of Medicine and RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Richard Moser
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Guangping Gao
- Department of Microbiology and Physiological Systems and Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Christian Mueller
- Departments of Pediatrics and Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Miguel Sena-Esteves
- Departments of Neurology and Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Ellen Sapp
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA, USA
| | - Edith Pfister
- Department of Medicine and RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Denice O'Connell
- Department of Animal Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Kendra Takle
- Department of Medicine and RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Kirsten E Erger
- Department of Pediatrics and Powell Gene Therapy Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Wanglin Liu
- Department of Medicine and RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Thomas J Conlon
- Department of Pediatrics and Powell Gene Therapy Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | | | - Matthew J Gounis
- Department of Radiology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Neil Aronin
- Department of Medicine and RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
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23
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Nicola S, Rolla G, Brussino L. Breakthroughs in hereditary angioedema management: a systematic review of approved drugs and those under research. Drugs Context 2019; 8:212605. [PMID: 31645881 PMCID: PMC6788388 DOI: 10.7573/dic.212605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2019] [Revised: 08/16/2019] [Accepted: 08/27/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Hereditary angioedema (HAE) is a rare genetic disorder, characterized by recurrent and unexpected potentially life-threatening mucosal swelling. The impairment underlying HAE could be a defect in C1-inhibitor activity, or in its serum concentration. Patients affected by HAE should be treated with on-demand or prophylactic drugs. Lifelong C1-inhibitor supplementation is sometimes required. In this review, we review the currently approved drugs for HAE due to C1-inhibitor defect and to describe those under research. In particular, we focused on the mechanisms of action, routes of administration, and efficacy of these therapies. A systematic review of the literature was performed using the PubMed database for original articles and clinical trials of HAE treatments from 2005 to 2019. The approved HAE treatments can minimize the risk of death, but they are not effective in complete healing from the disease. The new gene therapies seem to provide promising opportunities for the treatment of hereditary angioedema. However, there are still many unmet needs, including efficacy, route, and timing of administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Nicola
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche - SSDDU Allergologia e Immunologia Clinica, Università degli Studi di Torino, AO Ordine Mauriziano Umberto I di Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Giovanni Rolla
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche - SSDDU Allergologia e Immunologia Clinica, Università degli Studi di Torino, AO Ordine Mauriziano Umberto I di Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Luisa Brussino
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche - SSDDU Allergologia e Immunologia Clinica, Università degli Studi di Torino, AO Ordine Mauriziano Umberto I di Torino, Torino, Italy
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24
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Qiu T, Chiuchiolo MJ, Whaley AS, Russo AR, Sondhi D, Kaminsky SM, Crystal RG, Pagovich OE. Gene therapy for C1 esterase inhibitor deficiency in a Murine Model of Hereditary angioedema. Allergy 2019; 74:1081-1089. [PMID: 30059156 DOI: 10.1111/all.13582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2018] [Revised: 06/08/2018] [Accepted: 07/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hereditary angioedema (HAE) is a life-threatening, autosomal dominant disorder characterized by unpredictable, episodic swelling of the face, upper airway, oropharynx, extremities, genitalia, and gastrointestinal tract. Almost all cases of HAE are caused by mutations in the SERPING1 gene resulting in a deficiency in functional plasma C1 esterase inhibitor (C1EI), a serine protease inhibitor that normally inhibits proteases in the contact, complement, and fibrinolytic systems. Current treatment of HAE includes long-term prophylaxis with attenuated androgens or human plasma-derived C1EI and management of acute attacks with human plasma-derived or recombinant C1EI, bradykinin, and kallikrein inhibitors, each of which requires repeated administration. As an approach to effectively treat HAE with a single treatment, we hypothesized that a one-time intravenous administration of an adeno-associated virus (AAV) gene transfer vector expressing the genetic sequence of the normal human C1 esterase inhibitor (AAVrh.10hC1EI) would provide sustained circulating C1EI levels sufficient to prevent angioedema episodes. METHODS To study the efficacy of AAVrh.10hC1EI, we used CRISPR/Cas9 technology to create a heterozygote C1EI-deficient mouse model (S63±) that shares characteristics associated with HAE in humans including decreased plasma C1EI and C4 levels. Phenotypically, these mice have increased vascular permeability of skin and internal organs. RESULTS Systemic administration of AAVrh.10hC1EI to the S63± mice resulted in sustained human C1EI activity levels above the predicted therapeutic levels and correction of the vascular leak in skin and internal organs. CONCLUSION A single treatment with AAVrh.10hC1EI has the potential to provide long-term protection from angioedema attacks in affected individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Qiu
- Department of Genetic Medicine Weill Cornell Medical College New York New York
- Department of Respiratory Medicine KunShan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Kunshan China
| | - Maria J. Chiuchiolo
- Department of Genetic Medicine Weill Cornell Medical College New York New York
| | - Adele S. Whaley
- Department of Genetic Medicine Weill Cornell Medical College New York New York
| | - Anthony R. Russo
- Department of Genetic Medicine Weill Cornell Medical College New York New York
| | - Dolan Sondhi
- Department of Genetic Medicine Weill Cornell Medical College New York New York
| | - Stephen M. Kaminsky
- Department of Genetic Medicine Weill Cornell Medical College New York New York
| | - Ronald G. Crystal
- Department of Genetic Medicine Weill Cornell Medical College New York New York
| | - Odelya E. Pagovich
- Department of Genetic Medicine Weill Cornell Medical College New York New York
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25
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Abstract
CRISPR, a revolutionizing technology allowing researchers to navigate in and edit the genome, is moving on the fast track toward clinical use for ex vivo correction of disease-causing mutations in stem cells. As we await the first trials utilizing ex vivo CRISPR editing, implementation of CRISPR-based gene editing as an in vivo treatment directly in patients still remains an ultimate challenge. However, quickly accumulating evidence has provided proof-of-concept for efficacious editing in vivo. Attempts to edit genes directly in animals have largely relied on classical vector systems based on virus-based delivery of gene cassettes encoding the Cas9 endonuclease and single guide RNA, the key components of the CRISPR system. However, whereas persistent gene expression has been the primary goal of gene therapy for decades, things may be different in the case of CRISPR delivery. Is short-term presence of the CRISPR components perhaps sufficient for efficacy and ideal for safety?-and are strategies needed for restricting immune recognition of the bacteria-derived editing tool? Here, while answers to these questions still blow in the wind, we review prominent examples of genome editing with focus on targeting of genes with CRISPR in liver, muscles, and eyes of the mouse.
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26
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Figueiredo C, Carvalho Oliveira M, Chen-Wacker C, Jansson K, Höffler K, Yuzefovych Y, Pogozhykh O, Jin Z, Kühnel M, Jonigk D, Wiegmann B, Sommer W, Haverich A, Warnecke G, Blasczyk R. Immunoengineering of the Vascular Endothelium to Silence MHC Expression During Normothermic Ex Vivo Lung Perfusion. Hum Gene Ther 2018; 30:485-496. [PMID: 30261752 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2018.117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Disparities at the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) antigens and associated minor antigens trigger harmful immune responses, leading to graft rejection after transplantation. We showed that MHC-silenced cells and tissues are efficiently protected against rejection. In complex vascularized organs, the endothelium is the major interface between donor and recipient. This study therefore aimed to reduce the immunogenicity of the lung by silencing MHC expression on the endothelium. In porcine lungs, short-hairpin RNAs targeting beta-2-microglobulin and class II-transactivator transcripts were delivered by lentiviral vectors during normothermic ex vivo perfusion to silence swine leukocyte antigen (SLA) I and II expression permanently. The results demonstrated the feasibility of genetically engineering all lung regions, achieving a targeted silencing effect for SLA I and II of 67% and 52%, respectively, without affecting cell viability or tissue integrity. This decrease in immunogenicity carries the potential to generate immunologically invisible organs to counteract the burden of rejection and immunosuppression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Constanca Figueiredo
- 1 Institute of Transfusion Medicine , Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.,2 Excellence Cluster From Regenerative Biology to Reconstructive Therapy-REBIRTH , Hanover, Germany.,3 Transregional Collaborative Research Centre 127 , Hanover, Germany
| | - Marco Carvalho Oliveira
- 1 Institute of Transfusion Medicine , Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.,3 Transregional Collaborative Research Centre 127 , Hanover, Germany
| | - Chen Chen-Wacker
- 1 Institute of Transfusion Medicine , Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.,2 Excellence Cluster From Regenerative Biology to Reconstructive Therapy-REBIRTH , Hanover, Germany
| | - Katharina Jansson
- 4 Department of Cardiothoracic, Transplantation, and Vascular Surgery, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.,5 German Center for Lung Research , BREATH site, Hanover, Germany
| | - Klaus Höffler
- 4 Department of Cardiothoracic, Transplantation, and Vascular Surgery, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Yuliia Yuzefovych
- 1 Institute of Transfusion Medicine , Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.,2 Excellence Cluster From Regenerative Biology to Reconstructive Therapy-REBIRTH , Hanover, Germany
| | - Olena Pogozhykh
- 1 Institute of Transfusion Medicine , Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.,2 Excellence Cluster From Regenerative Biology to Reconstructive Therapy-REBIRTH , Hanover, Germany
| | - Zhu Jin
- 1 Institute of Transfusion Medicine , Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.,2 Excellence Cluster From Regenerative Biology to Reconstructive Therapy-REBIRTH , Hanover, Germany
| | - Mark Kühnel
- 5 German Center for Lung Research , BREATH site, Hanover, Germany .,6 Institute for Pathology , Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Danny Jonigk
- 5 German Center for Lung Research , BREATH site, Hanover, Germany .,6 Institute for Pathology , Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Bettina Wiegmann
- 4 Department of Cardiothoracic, Transplantation, and Vascular Surgery, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.,5 German Center for Lung Research , BREATH site, Hanover, Germany
| | - Wiebke Sommer
- 4 Department of Cardiothoracic, Transplantation, and Vascular Surgery, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.,5 German Center for Lung Research , BREATH site, Hanover, Germany
| | - Axel Haverich
- 2 Excellence Cluster From Regenerative Biology to Reconstructive Therapy-REBIRTH , Hanover, Germany.,3 Transregional Collaborative Research Centre 127 , Hanover, Germany.,4 Department of Cardiothoracic, Transplantation, and Vascular Surgery, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.,5 German Center for Lung Research , BREATH site, Hanover, Germany
| | - Gregor Warnecke
- 4 Department of Cardiothoracic, Transplantation, and Vascular Surgery, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.,5 German Center for Lung Research , BREATH site, Hanover, Germany
| | - Rainer Blasczyk
- 1 Institute of Transfusion Medicine , Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.,2 Excellence Cluster From Regenerative Biology to Reconstructive Therapy-REBIRTH , Hanover, Germany.,3 Transregional Collaborative Research Centre 127 , Hanover, Germany
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27
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Stiles KM, Sondhi D, Kaminsky SM, De BP, Rosenberg JB, Crystal RG. Intrapleural Gene Therapy for Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency-Related Lung Disease. CHRONIC OBSTRUCTIVE PULMONARY DISEASES-JOURNAL OF THE COPD FOUNDATION 2018; 5:244-257. [PMID: 30723782 DOI: 10.15326/jcopdf.5.4.2017.0160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) manifests primarily as early-onset emphysema caused by the destruction of the lung by neutrophil elastase due to low amounts of the serine protease inhibitor alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT). The current therapy involves weekly intravenous infusions of AAT-derived from pooled human plasma that is efficacious, yet costly. Gene therapy applications designed to provide constant levels of the AAT protein are currently under development. The challenge is for gene therapy to provide sufficient amounts of AAT to normalize the inhibitor level and anti-neutrophil elastase capacity in the lung. One strategy involves administration of an adeno-associated virus (AAV) gene therapy vector to the pleural space providing both local and systemic production of AAT to reach consistent therapeutic levels. This review focuses on the strategy, advantages, challenges, and updates for intrapleural administration of gene therapy vectors for the treatment of AATD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie M Stiles
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York.,KMS and DS contributed equally to this review
| | - Dolan Sondhi
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York.,KMS and DS contributed equally to this review
| | - Stephen M Kaminsky
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York
| | - Bishnu P De
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York
| | - Jonathan B Rosenberg
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York
| | - Ronald G Crystal
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York
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28
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The murine lung as a factory to produce secreted intrapulmonary and circulatory proteins. Gene Ther 2018; 25:345-358. [PMID: 30022127 PMCID: PMC6119181 DOI: 10.1038/s41434-018-0025-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2018] [Revised: 05/04/2018] [Accepted: 05/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
We have shown that a lentiviral vector (rSIV.F/HN) pseudotyped with the F and HN proteins from Sendai virus generates high levels of intracellular proteins after lung transduction. Here, we evaluate the use of rSIV.F/HN for production of secreted proteins. We assessed whether rSIV.F/HN transduction of the lung generates therapeutically relevant levels of secreted proteins in the lung and systemic circulation using human α1-anti-trypsin (hAAT) and factor VIII (hFVIII) as exemplars. Sedated mice were transduced with rSIV.F/HN carrying either the secreted reporter gene Gaussia luciferase or the hAAT or hFVIII cDNAs by nasal sniffing. rSIV.F/HN-hAAT transduction lead to therapeutically relevant hAAT levels (70 μg/ml) in epithelial lining fluid, with stable expression persisting for at least 19 months from a single application. Secreted proteins produced in the lung were released into the circulation and stable expression was detectable in blood. The levels of hFVIII in murine blood approached therapeutically relevant targets. rSIV.F/HN was also able to produce secreted hAAT and hFVIII in transduced human primary airway cells. rSIV.F/HN transduction of the murine lungs leads to long-lasting and therapeutically relevant levels of secreted proteins in the lung and systemic circulation. These data broaden the use of this vector platform for a large range of disease indications.
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29
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Abstract
This review seeks to give an overview of alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, including the different disease phenotypes that it encompasses. We then describe the different therapeutic endeavors that have been undertaken to address these different phenotypes. Lastly we discuss future potential therapeutics, such as genome editing, and how they may play a role in treating alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency.
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30
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Flotte TR, Daniels E, Benson J, Bevett-Rose JM, Cornetta K, Diggins M, Johnston J, Sepelak S, van der Loo JCM, Wilson JM, McDonald CL. The Gene Therapy Resource Program: A Decade of Dedication to Translational Research by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. HUM GENE THER CL DEV 2017; 28:178-186. [PMID: 29130351 PMCID: PMC5733658 DOI: 10.1089/humc.2017.170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2017] [Accepted: 09/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Over a 10-year period, the Gene Therapy Resource Program (GTRP) of the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute has provided a set of core services to investigators to facilitate the clinical translation of gene therapy. These services have included a preclinical (research-grade) vector production core; current Good Manufacturing Practice clinical-grade vector cores for recombinant adeno-associated virus and lentivirus vectors; a pharmacology and toxicology core; and a coordinating center to manage program logistics and to provide regulatory and financial support to early-phase clinical trials. In addition, the GTRP has utilized a Steering Committee and a Scientific Review Board to guide overall progress and effectiveness and to evaluate individual proposals. These resources have been deployed to assist 82 investigators with 172 approved service proposals. These efforts have assisted in clinical trial implementation across a wide range of genetic, cardiac, pulmonary, and blood diseases. Program outcomes and potential future directions of the program are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terence R. Flotte
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts
| | - Eric Daniels
- Social and Scientific Systems, Inc., Silver Spring, Maryland
| | - Janet Benson
- Lovelace Biomedical and Environmental Research Institute, Albuquerque, New Mexico
| | | | - Kenneth Cornetta
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | | | - Julie Johnston
- Gene Therapy Program, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Susan Sepelak
- Social and Scientific Systems, Inc., Silver Spring, Maryland
| | - Johannes C. M. van der Loo
- Gene Therapy Program, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- The Raymond G. Perelman Center for Cellular and Molecular Therapeutics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - James M. Wilson
- Gene Therapy Program, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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31
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Borel F, Tang Q, Gernoux G, Greer C, Wang Z, Barzel A, Kay MA, Shultz LD, Greiner DL, Flotte TR, Brehm MA, Mueller C. Survival Advantage of Both Human Hepatocyte Xenografts and Genome-Edited Hepatocytes for Treatment of α-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency. Mol Ther 2017; 25:2477-2489. [PMID: 29032169 PMCID: PMC5675605 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2017.09.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2017] [Revised: 09/14/2017] [Accepted: 09/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocytes represent an important target for gene therapy and editing of single-gene disorders. In α-1 antitrypsin (AAT) deficiency, one missense mutation results in impaired secretion of AAT. In most patients, lung damage occurs due to a lack of AAT-mediated protection of lung elastin from neutrophil elastase. In some patients, accumulation of misfolded PiZ mutant AAT protein triggers hepatocyte injury, leading to inflammation and cirrhosis. We hypothesized that correcting the Z mutant defect in hepatocytes would confer a selective advantage for repopulation of hepatocytes within an intact liver. A human PiZ allele was crossed onto an immune-deficient (NSG) strain to create a recipient strain (NSG-PiZ) for human hepatocyte xenotransplantation. Results indicate that NSG-PiZ recipients support heightened engraftment of normal human primary hepatocytes as compared with NSG recipients. This model can therefore be used to test hepatocyte cell therapies for AATD, but more broadly it serves as a simple, highly reproducible liver xenograft model. Finally, a promoterless adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector, expressing a wild-type AAT and a synthetic miRNA to silence the endogenous allele, was integrated into the albumin locus. This gene-editing approach leads to a selective advantage of edited hepatocytes, by silencing the mutant protein and augmenting normal AAT production, and improvement of the liver pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florie Borel
- Department of Pediatrics and Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Qiushi Tang
- Department of Pediatrics and Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Gwladys Gernoux
- Department of Pediatrics and Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Cynthia Greer
- Department of Pediatrics and Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Ziqiong Wang
- Department of Pediatrics and Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Adi Barzel
- LogicBio Therapeutics, Inc., Cambridge, MA 02139; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel; Departments of Pediatrics and Genetics, Stanford Medical School, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Mark A Kay
- Departments of Pediatrics and Genetics, Stanford Medical School, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | | | - Dale L Greiner
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Terence R Flotte
- Department of Pediatrics and Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Michael A Brehm
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA.
| | - Christian Mueller
- Department of Pediatrics and Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA.
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32
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Sondhi D, Stiles KM, De BP, Crystal RG. Genetic Modification of the Lung Directed Toward Treatment of Human Disease. Hum Gene Ther 2017; 28:3-84. [PMID: 27927014 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2016.152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetic modification therapy is a promising therapeutic strategy for many diseases of the lung intractable to other treatments. Lung gene therapy has been the subject of numerous preclinical animal experiments and human clinical trials, for targets including genetic diseases such as cystic fibrosis and α1-antitrypsin deficiency, complex disorders such as asthma, allergy, and lung cancer, infections such as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and Pseudomonas, as well as pulmonary arterial hypertension, transplant rejection, and lung injury. A variety of viral and non-viral vectors have been employed to overcome the many physical barriers to gene transfer imposed by lung anatomy and natural defenses. Beyond the treatment of lung diseases, the lung has the potential to be used as a metabolic factory for generating proteins for delivery to the circulation for treatment of systemic diseases. Although much has been learned through a myriad of experiments about the development of genetic modification of the lung, more work is still needed to improve the delivery vehicles and to overcome challenges such as entry barriers, persistent expression, specific cell targeting, and circumventing host anti-vector responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dolan Sondhi
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College , New York, New York
| | - Katie M Stiles
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College , New York, New York
| | - Bishnu P De
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College , New York, New York
| | - Ronald G Crystal
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College , New York, New York
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33
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Ji Q, Guo C, Xie C, Wu Y, Zhang P, Li H, Lu Y. Genetically engineered cell lines for α1-antitrypsin expression. Biotechnol Lett 2017; 39:1471-1476. [PMID: 28721587 DOI: 10.1007/s10529-017-2391-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2017] [Accepted: 07/13/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To establish genetically modified cell lines that can produce functional α1-antitrypsin (AAT), by CRISPR/Cas9-assisted homologous recombination. RESULTS α1-Antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) is a monogenic heritable disease that often results in lungs and liver damage. Current augmentation therapy is expensive and in short of supply. To develop a safer and more effective therapeutic strategy for AATD, we integrated the AAT gene (SERPINA1, NG_008290.1) into the AAVS1 locus of human cell line HEK293T and assessed the safety and efficacy of CRISPR/Cas9 on producing potential therapeutic cell lines. Cell clones obtained had the AAT gene integrated at the AAVS1 locus and secreted approx. 0.04 g/l recombinant AAT into the medium. Moreover, the secreted AAT showed an inhibitory activity that is comparable to plasma AAT. CONCLUSIONS CRISPR/Cas9-mediated engineering of human cells is a promising alternative for generating isogenic cell lines with consistent AAT production. This work sheds new light on the generation of therapeutic liver stem cells for AATD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianqian Ji
- School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Caiping Guo
- Shenzhen Weiguang Biological Products Co., Ltd., Shenzhen, People's Republic of China
| | - Chen Xie
- Shenzhen Weiguang Biological Products Co., Ltd., Shenzhen, People's Republic of China
| | - Yingdan Wu
- Shenzhen Weiguang Biological Products Co., Ltd., Shenzhen, People's Republic of China
| | - Pei Zhang
- Shenzhen Weiguang Biological Products Co., Ltd., Shenzhen, People's Republic of China
| | - Hui Li
- Shenzhen Weiguang Biological Products Co., Ltd., Shenzhen, People's Republic of China
| | - Yongjun Lu
- School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China. .,, No. 135, Xin gang Xi Road, Guang Zhou, 510275, People's Republic of China.
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34
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Mueller C, Gernoux G, Gruntman AM, Borel F, Reeves EP, Calcedo R, Rouhani FN, Yachnis A, Humphries M, Campbell-Thompson M, Messina L, Chulay JD, Trapnell B, Wilson JM, McElvaney NG, Flotte TR. 5 Year Expression and Neutrophil Defect Repair after Gene Therapy in Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency. Mol Ther 2017; 25:1387-1394. [PMID: 28408179 PMCID: PMC5474959 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2017.03.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2016] [Revised: 03/10/2017] [Accepted: 03/16/2017] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency is a monogenic disorder resulting in emphysema due principally to the unopposed effects of neutrophil elastase. We previously reported achieving plasma wild-type alpha-1 antitrypsin concentrations at 2.5%–3.8% of the purported therapeutic level at 1 year after a single intramuscular administration of recombinant adeno-associated virus serotype 1 alpha-1 antitrypsin vector in alpha-1 antitrypsin deficient patients. We analyzed blood and muscle for alpha-1 antitrypsin expression and immune cell response. We also assayed previously reported markers of neutrophil function known to be altered in alpha-1 antitrypsin deficient patients. Here, we report sustained expression at 2.0%–2.5% of the target level from years 1–5 in these same patients without any additional recombinant adeno-associated virus serotype-1 alpha-1 antitrypsin vector administration. In addition, we observed partial correction of disease-associated neutrophil defects, including neutrophil elastase inhibition, markers of degranulation, and membrane-bound anti-neutrophil antibodies. There was also evidence of an active T regulatory cell response (similar to the 1 year data) and an exhausted cytotoxic T cell response to adeno-associated virus serotype-1 capsid. These findings suggest that muscle-based alpha-1 antitrypsin gene replacement is tolerogenic and that stable levels of M-AAT may exert beneficial neutrophil effects at lower concentrations than previously anticipated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Mueller
- University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01655, USA
| | - Gwladys Gernoux
- University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01655, USA
| | - Alisha M Gruntman
- University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01655, USA; Tufts University Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, North Grafton, MA 01536, USA
| | - Florie Borel
- University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01655, USA
| | - Emer P Reeves
- Department of Respiratory Research, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Roberto Calcedo
- Gene Therapy Program, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Farshid N Rouhani
- University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Anthony Yachnis
- University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | | | | | - Louis Messina
- University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01655, USA
| | - Jeffrey D Chulay
- Applied Genetic Technologies Corporation, Alachua, FL 32615, USA
| | - Bruce Trapnell
- Cincinnatti Children's Hospital, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - James M Wilson
- Gene Therapy Program, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Noel G McElvaney
- Department of Respiratory Research, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Terence R Flotte
- University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01655, USA.
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35
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Abstract
Subjects with alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency who develop pulmonary disease are managed following general treatment guidelines, including disease management interventions. In addition, administration of intravenous infusions of alpha-1 proteinase inhibitor (augmentation therapy) at regular schedules is a specific therapy for individuals with AATD with pulmonary involvement.This chapter summarizes the manufacturing differences of commercially available formulations and the available evidence of the effects of augmentation therapy. Biologically, there is clear evidence of in vivo local antiprotease effects in the lung and systemic immunomodulatory effects. Clinically, there is cumulative evidence of slowing lung function decline and emphysema progression. The optimal dose of augmentation therapy is being revised as well as more individualized assessment of who needs this therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Campos
- Division of Pulmonary, Sleep and Critical Care Medicine, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, RMSB Room 7043 A (R-47), 1600 NW 10th Ave., Miami, FL, 33136, USA.
| | - Jorge Lascano
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, University of Florida, Miami, FL, USA
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Historical role of alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency in respiratory and hepatic complications. Gene 2016; 589:118-22. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2016.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2015] [Revised: 11/11/2015] [Accepted: 01/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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Chiuchiolo MJ, Crystal RG. Gene Therapy for Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency Lung Disease. Ann Am Thorac Soc 2016; 13 Suppl 4:S352-69. [PMID: 27564673 PMCID: PMC5059492 DOI: 10.1513/annalsats.201506-344kv] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2015] [Accepted: 08/28/2015] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT) deficiency, characterized by low plasma levels of the serine protease inhibitor AAT, is associated with emphysema secondary to insufficient protection of the lung from neutrophil proteases. Although AAT augmentation therapy with purified AAT protein is efficacious, it requires weekly to monthly intravenous infusion of AAT purified from pooled human plasma, has the risk of viral contamination and allergic reactions, and is costly. As an alternative, gene therapy offers the advantage of single administration, eliminating the burden of protein infusion, and reduced risks and costs. The focus of this review is to describe the various strategies for AAT gene therapy for the pulmonary manifestations of AAT deficiency and the state of the art in bringing AAT gene therapy to the bedside.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria J Chiuchiolo
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York
| | - Ronald G Crystal
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York
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Aravalli RN, Steer CJ. Gene editing technology as an approach to the treatment of liver diseases. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2016; 16:595-608. [DOI: 10.1517/14712598.2016.1158808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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Wozniak J, Wandtke T, Kopinski P, Chorostowska-Wynimko J. Challenges and Prospects for Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency Gene Therapy. Hum Gene Ther 2015; 26:709-18. [PMID: 26413996 PMCID: PMC4651033 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2015.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2015] [Accepted: 08/01/2015] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT) is a protease inhibitor belonging to the serpin family. A number of identified mutations in the SERPINA1 gene encoding this protein result in alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AATD). A decrease in AAT serum concentration or reduced biological activity causes considerable risk of chronic respiratory and liver disorders. As a monogenic disease, AATD appears to be an attractive target for gene therapy, particularly for patients with pulmonary dysfunction, where augmentation of functional AAT levels in plasma might slow down respiratory disease development. The short AAT coding sequence and its activity in the extracellular matrix would enable an increase in systemic serum AAT production by cellular secretion. In vitro and in vivo experimental AAT gene transfer with gamma-retroviral, lentiviral, adenoviral, and adeno-associated viral (AAV) vectors has resulted in enhanced AAT serum levels and a promising safety profile. Human clinical trials using intramuscular viral transfer with AAV1 and AAV2 vectors of the AAT gene demonstrated its safety, but did not achieve a protective level of AAT >11 μM in serum. This review provides an in-depth critical analysis of current progress in AATD gene therapy based on viral gene transfer. The factors affecting transgene expression levels, such as site of administration, dose and type of vector, and activity of the immune system, are discussed further as crucial variables for optimizing the clinical effectiveness of gene therapy in AATD subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Wozniak
- Department of Gene Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Tomasz Wandtke
- Department of Gene Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Piotr Kopinski
- Department of Gene Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Joanna Chorostowska-Wynimko
- Department of Genetics and Clinical Immunology, National Institute of Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases, Warsaw, Poland
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronald G Crystal
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065, USA.
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Aravalli RN, Belcher JD, Steer CJ. Liver-targeted gene therapy: Approaches and challenges. Liver Transpl 2015; 21:718-37. [PMID: 25824605 PMCID: PMC9353592 DOI: 10.1002/lt.24122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2014] [Revised: 03/06/2015] [Accepted: 03/14/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The liver plays a major role in many inherited and acquired genetic disorders. It is also the site for the treatment of certain inborn errors of metabolism that do not directly cause injury to the liver. The advancement of nucleic acid-based therapies for liver maladies has been severely limited because of the myriad untoward side effects and methodological limitations. To address these issues, research efforts in recent years have been intensified toward the development of targeted gene approaches using novel genetic tools, such as zinc-finger nucleases, transcription activator-like effector nucleases, and clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats as well as various nonviral vectors such as Sleeping Beauty transposons, PiggyBac transposons, and PhiC31 integrase. Although each of these methods uses a distinct mechanism of gene modification, all of them are dependent on the efficient delivery of DNA and RNA molecules into the cell. This review provides an overview of current and emerging therapeutic strategies for liver-targeted gene therapy and gene repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajagopal N. Aravalli
- Department of Radiology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN 54455
| | - John D. Belcher
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN 54455
| | - Clifford J. Steer
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN 54455,Genetics, Cell Biology and Development, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN 54455
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Gruntman AM, Flotte TR. Progress with Recombinant Adeno-Associated Virus Vectors for Gene Therapy of Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency. Hum Gene Ther Methods 2015; 26:77-81. [PMID: 26067712 PMCID: PMC4559188 DOI: 10.1089/hgtb.2015.086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2015] [Accepted: 06/11/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The pathway to a clinical gene therapy product often involves many changes of course and strategy before obtaining successful results. Here we outline the methodologies, both clinical and preclinical, that went into developing a gene therapy approach to the treatment of alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency lung disease using muscle-targeted recombinant adeno-associated virus. From initial gene construct development in mouse models through multiple rounds of safety and biodistribution studies in rodents, rabbits, and nonhuman primates to ultimate human trials, this review seeks to provide insight into what clinical translation entails and could thereby inform the process for future investigators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alisha M. Gruntman
- Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01655
| | - Terence R. Flotte
- Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01655
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01655
- Microbiology & Physiologic Systems, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01655
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Chotirmall SH, Al-Alawi M, McEnery T, McElvaney NG. Alpha-1 proteinase inhibitors for the treatment of alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency: safety, tolerability, and patient outcomes. Ther Clin Risk Manag 2015; 11:143-51. [PMID: 25673994 PMCID: PMC4321641 DOI: 10.2147/tcrm.s51474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT) deficiency remains an underrecognized genetic disease with predominantly pulmonary and hepatic manifestations. AAT is derived primarily from hepatocytes; however, macrophages and neutrophils are secondary sources. As the natural physiological inhibitor of several proteases, most importantly neutrophil elastase (NE), it plays a key role in maintaining pulmonary protease–antiprotease balance. In deficient states, unrestrained NE activity promotes damage to the lung matrix, causing structural defects and impairing host defenses. The commonest form of AAT deficiency results in a mutated Z AAT that is abnormally folded, polymerized, and aggregated in the liver. Consequently, systemic levels are lower, resulting in diminished pulmonary concentrations. Hepatic disease occurs due to liver aggregation of the protein, while lung destruction ensues from unopposed protease-mediated damage. In this review, we will discuss AAT deficiency, its clinical manifestations, and augmentation therapy. We will address the safety and tolerability profiles of AAT replacement in the context of patient outcomes and cost-effectiveness and outline future directions for work in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanjay H Chotirmall
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
| | - Mazen Al-Alawi
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Republic of Ireland
| | - Thomas McEnery
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Republic of Ireland
| | - Noel G McElvaney
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Republic of Ireland
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McElvaney OJ, Bella AME, McElvaney NG. α-1 antitrypsin deficiency: current and future treatment options. Expert Opin Orphan Drugs 2014. [DOI: 10.1517/21678707.2015.997208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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AAVrh.10 immunogenicity in mice and humans. Relevance of antibody cross-reactivity in human gene therapy. Gene Ther 2014; 22:196-201. [PMID: 25410741 DOI: 10.1038/gt.2014.103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2014] [Revised: 10/07/2014] [Accepted: 10/10/2014] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Simian adeno-associated virus (AAV) serotype rh.10 is a promising gene therapy tool, achieving safe, sustained transgene expression in the nervous system, lung, liver and heart in animal models. To date, preexisting immunity in humans has not been confirmed, though exposure is unexpected. We compared the humoral immune response with serotypes AAVrh.10 and AAV9 in mice, and AAVrh.10, AAV9 and AAV2 in 100 healthy humans. Mice, injected-intravenously, raised significantly more anti-AAV9 than anti-AAVrh.10 IgG (immunoglobulins), and sera demonstrated greater neutralizing capacity, correspondingly. Antibody cross-binding studies in mice showed negligible cross-recognition between AAVrh.10, AAV9 and AAV2. In humans, IgG prevalence against the most common human serotype, AAV2, was 72%; AAV9, 47% and AAVrh.10, a surprising, 59%. Yet, neutralizing-antibody seroprevalences were 71% for AAV2, 18% for AAV9 and 21% for AAVrh.10. Thus, most anti-AAV9 and anti-AAVrh.10 IgG were nonneutralizing. Indeed, sera generally neutralized AAV2 more strongly than AAVrh.10. Further, all samples neutralizing AAVrh.10 or AAV9 also neutralized AAV2, suggesting antibody cross-recognition. This contrasts with the results in mice, and highlights the complexity of tailoring gene therapy to minimize the immune response in humans, when multiple-mixed infections during a lifetime evoke a broad repertoire of preexisting antibodies capable of cross reacting with non-human serotypes.
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Phase I/II Study of Intrapleural Administration of a Serotype rh.10 Replication-Deficient Adeno-Associated Virus Gene Transfer Vector Expressing the Human α1-Antitrypsin cDNA to Individuals with α1-Antitrypsin Deficiency. HUM GENE THER CL DEV 2014; 25:112-33. [DOI: 10.1089/humc.2014.2513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
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Xie Y, Hicks MJ, Kaminsky SM, Moore MAS, Crystal RG, Rafii A. AAV-mediated persistent bevacizumab therapy suppresses tumor growth of ovarian cancer. Gynecol Oncol 2014; 135:325-32. [PMID: 25108232 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2014.07.105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2014] [Revised: 07/29/2014] [Accepted: 07/30/2014] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE Anti-angiogenesis therapies such as bevacizumab, the monoclonal antibody to vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), have been used against ovarian cancer, but transient and low peritoneal drug levels are likely a factor in treatment failure. We hypothesized that a single administration of adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated intraperitoneal expression of bevacizumab would direct persistent expression and suppress growth and metastasis of ovarian cancer. METHODS AAVrh.10BevMab, a rhesus serotype 10 adeno-associated viral vector coding for bevacizumab, was evaluated for the capacity of a single intraperitoneal administration to persistently suppress peritoneal tumor growth in an intraperitoneal model of ovarian carcinomatosis with human ovarian cancer cells in nude immunodeficient mice. RESULTS The data demonstrates that AAVrh10.BevMab mediates persistent and high levels of bevacizumab in the peritoneal cavity following a single intraperitoneal administration in mice. In AAVrh10.BevMab treated A2780 human ovarian cancer-bearing mice, tumor growth was significantly suppressed (p<0.05) and the area of blood vessels in the tumor was decreased (p<0.04). Survival of mice with A2780 xenografts or SK-OV3 xenografts was greatly prolonged in the presence of AAVrh10.BevMab (p<0.001). Administration of AAVrh10.BevMab 4days after A2780-luciferase cell implantation reduced tumor growth (p<0.01) and increased mouse survival (p<0.0001). Combination of AAVrh10.BevMab with cytotoxic reagents paclitaxel or topotecan proved to be more effective in increasing survival than treatment with cytotoxic reagent alone. CONCLUSION A single administration of AAVrh10.BevMab provides sustained and high local expression of bevacizumab in the peritoneal cavity, and significantly suppresses peritoneal carcinomatosis and increases survival in an ovarian cancer murine model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Xie
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, United States
| | - Martin J Hicks
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, United States
| | - Stephen M Kaminsky
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, United States
| | - Malcolm A S Moore
- Cell Biology Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, United States
| | - Ronald G Crystal
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, United States.
| | - Arash Rafii
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College-Qatar, Doha, Qatar
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