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Crane R, Makia MS, Zeibak S, Tebbe L, Ikele L, Woods CR, Conley SM, Acharya G, Naash MI, Al-Ubaidi MR. Effective intravitreal gene delivery to retinal pigment epithelium with hyaluronic acid nanospheres. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2024; 35:102222. [PMID: 38868364 PMCID: PMC11168490 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2024.102222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
Inherited retinal degeneration (IRD) can cause a wide range of different forms of vision loss and blindness, and in spite of extensive advancements in gene therapy research, therapeutic approaches for targeting IRDs are still lacking. We have recently developed an approach for the intravitreal co-delivery of hyaluronic-acid nanospheres (HA-NSs) with sulfotyrosine (ST), effectively reaching the outer retina from the vitreal cavity. Here, our goal was to understand whether DNA-filled HA-NSs could generate gene expression in the outer retina. TxRed-labeled HA-NSs were compacted with plasmid DNA carrying a GFP reporter gene and intravitreally injected into the mouse retina. Follow-up at 4 weeks showed widespread gene expression in the outer retina and reduced, albeit present, expression at 8 weeks post-injection. Further analysis revealed this expression to be largely localized to the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). These data show that intravitreal delivery of HA-NSs is a promising non-viral platform for the delivery of therapeutic genes and can generate pan-tissue, persistent gene expression in the RPE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan Crane
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA
| | - Mustafa S. Makia
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA
| | - Stephanie Zeibak
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA
| | - Lars Tebbe
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA
| | - Larissa Ikele
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA
| | | | - Shannon M. Conley
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
| | - Ghanashyam Acharya
- Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Muna I. Naash
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA
- College of Optometry, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA
| | - Muayyad R. Al-Ubaidi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA
- College of Optometry, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA
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2
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Hartley A, Burger L, Wincek CL, Dons L, Li T, Grewenig A, Taşgın T, Urban M, Roig-Merino A, Ghazvini M, Harbottle RP. A Simple Nonviral Method to Generate Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells Using SMAR DNA Vectors. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:575. [PMID: 38790204 PMCID: PMC11121542 DOI: 10.3390/genes15050575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 04/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are a powerful tool for biomedical research, but their production presents challenges and safety concerns. Yamanaka and Takahashi revolutionised the field by demonstrating that somatic cells could be reprogrammed into pluripotent cells by overexpressing four key factors for a sufficient time. iPSCs are typically generated using viruses or virus-based methods, which have drawbacks such as vector persistence, risk of insertional mutagenesis, and oncogenesis. The application of less harmful nonviral vectors is limited as conventional plasmids cannot deliver the levels or duration of the factors necessary from a single transfection. Hence, plasmids that are most often used for reprogramming employ the potentially oncogenic Epstein-Barr nuclear antigen 1 (EBNA-1) system to ensure adequate levels and persistence of expression. In this study, we explored the use of nonviral SMAR DNA vectors to reprogram human fibroblasts into iPSCs. We show for the first time that iPSCs can be generated using nonviral plasmids without the use of EBNA-1 and that these DNA vectors can provide sufficient expression to induce pluripotency. We describe an optimised reprogramming protocol using these vectors that can produce high-quality iPSCs with comparable pluripotency and cellular function to those generated with viruses or EBNA-1 vectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Hartley
- DNA Vector Laboratory, German Cancer Research Center, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; (A.H.); (A.G.); (A.R.-M.)
- Faculty of Biosciences, Heidelberg University, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Luisa Burger
- DNA Vector Laboratory, German Cancer Research Center, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; (A.H.); (A.G.); (A.R.-M.)
- Faculty of Biosciences, Heidelberg University, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Cornelia L. Wincek
- DNA Vector Laboratory, German Cancer Research Center, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; (A.H.); (A.G.); (A.R.-M.)
| | - Lieke Dons
- Erasmus MC iPS Core Facility, Erasmus Medical Centre, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands (M.G.)
| | - Tracy Li
- Erasmus MC iPS Core Facility, Erasmus Medical Centre, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands (M.G.)
| | - Annabel Grewenig
- DNA Vector Laboratory, German Cancer Research Center, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; (A.H.); (A.G.); (A.R.-M.)
| | - Toros Taşgın
- DNA Vector Laboratory, German Cancer Research Center, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; (A.H.); (A.G.); (A.R.-M.)
- Faculty of Biosciences, Heidelberg University, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Manuela Urban
- DNA Vector Laboratory, German Cancer Research Center, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; (A.H.); (A.G.); (A.R.-M.)
- Faculty of Biosciences, Heidelberg University, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Alicia Roig-Merino
- DNA Vector Laboratory, German Cancer Research Center, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; (A.H.); (A.G.); (A.R.-M.)
- Faculty of Biosciences, Heidelberg University, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Mehrnaz Ghazvini
- Erasmus MC iPS Core Facility, Erasmus Medical Centre, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands (M.G.)
| | - Richard P. Harbottle
- DNA Vector Laboratory, German Cancer Research Center, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; (A.H.); (A.G.); (A.R.-M.)
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3
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Guan X, Pei Y, Song J. DNA-Based Nonviral Gene Therapy─Challenging but Promising. Mol Pharm 2024; 21:427-453. [PMID: 38198640 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.3c00907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Over the past decades, significant progress has been made in utilizing nucleic acids, including DNA and RNA molecules, for therapeutic purposes. For DNA molecules, although various DNA delivery systems have been established, viral vector systems are the go-to choice for large-scale commercial applications. However, viral systems have certain disadvantages such as immune response, limited payload capacity, insertional mutagenesis and pre-existing immunity. In contrast, nonviral systems are less immunogenic, not size limited, safer, and easier for manufacturing compared with viral systems. What's more, nonviral DNA vectors have demonstrated their capacity to mediate specific protein expression in vivo for diverse therapeutic objectives containing a wide range of diseases such as cancer, rare diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, and infectious diseases, yielding promising therapeutic outcomes. However, exogenous plasmid DNA is prone to degrade and has poor immunogenicity in vivo. Thus, various strategies have been developed: (i) designing novel plasmids with special structures, (ii) optimizing plasmid sequences for higher expression, and (iii) developing more efficient nonviral DNA delivery systems. Based on these strategies, many interesting clinical results have been reported. This Review discusses the development of DNA-based nonviral gene therapy, including novel plasmids, nonviral delivery systems, clinical advances, and prospects. These developments hold great potential for enhancing the efficacy and safety of nonviral gene therapy and expanding its applications in the treatment of various diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaocai Guan
- Institute of Nano Biomedicine and Engineering, Department of Instrument Science and Engineering, School of Electronic Information and Electrical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Yufeng Pei
- Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310022, China
| | - Jie Song
- Institute of Nano Biomedicine and Engineering, Department of Instrument Science and Engineering, School of Electronic Information and Electrical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
- Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310022, China
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4
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Toualbi L, Toms M, Almeida PV, Harbottle R, Moosajee M. Gene Augmentation of CHM Using Non-Viral Episomal Vectors in Models of Choroideremia. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15225. [PMID: 37894906 PMCID: PMC10607001 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242015225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Choroideremia (CHM) is an X-linked chorioretinal dystrophy leading to progressive retinal degeneration that results in blindness by late adulthood. It is caused by mutations in the CHM gene encoding the Rab Escort Protein 1 (REP1), which plays a crucial role in the prenylation of Rab proteins ensuring correct intracellular trafficking. Gene augmentation is a promising therapeutic strategy, and there are several completed and ongoing clinical trials for treating CHM using adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors. However, late-phase trials have failed to show significant functional improvements and have raised safety concerns about inflammatory events potentially caused by the use of viruses. Therefore, alternative non-viral therapies are desirable. Episomal scaffold/matrix attachment region (S/MAR)-based plasmid vectors were generated containing the human CHM coding sequence, a GFP reporter gene, and ubiquitous promoters (pS/MAR-CHM). The vectors were assessed in two choroideremia disease model systems: (1) CHM patient-derived fibroblasts and (2) chmru848 zebrafish, using Western blotting to detect REP1 protein expression and in vitro prenylation assays to assess the rescue of prenylation function. Retinal immunohistochemistry was used to investigate vector expression and photoreceptor morphology in injected zebrafish retinas. The pS/MAR-CHM vectors generated persistent REP1 expression in CHM patient fibroblasts and showed a significant rescue of prenylation function by 75%, indicating correction of the underlying biochemical defect associated with CHM. In addition, GFP and human REP1 expression were detected in zebrafish microinjected with the pS/MAR-CHM at the one-cell stage. Injected chmru848 zebrafish showed increased survival, prenylation function, and improved retinal photoreceptor morphology. Non-viral S/MAR vectors show promise as a potential gene-augmentation strategy without the use of immunogenic viral components, which could be applicable to many inherited retinal disease genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lyes Toualbi
- Development, Ageing and Disease, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London EC1V 9EL, UK
- Ocular Genomics and Therapeutics, The Francis Crick Institute, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Maria Toms
- Development, Ageing and Disease, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London EC1V 9EL, UK
- Ocular Genomics and Therapeutics, The Francis Crick Institute, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | | | - Richard Harbottle
- cDNA Vector Research, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; (P.V.A.)
| | - Mariya Moosajee
- Development, Ageing and Disease, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London EC1V 9EL, UK
- Ocular Genomics and Therapeutics, The Francis Crick Institute, London NW1 1AT, UK
- Department of Genetics, Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London EC1V 2PD, UK
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5
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Toms M, Toualbi L, Almeida PV, Harbottle R, Moosajee M. Successful large gene augmentation of USH2A with non-viral episomal vectors. Mol Ther 2023; 31:2755-2766. [PMID: 37337429 PMCID: PMC10491995 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2023.06.012] [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: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023] Open
Abstract
USH2A mutations are a common cause of autosomal recessive retinitis pigmentosa (RP) and Usher syndrome, for which there are currently no approved treatments. Gene augmentation is a valuable therapeutic strategy for treating many inherited retinal diseases; however, conventional adeno-associated virus (AAV) gene therapy cannot accommodate cDNAs exceeding 4.7 kb, such as the 15.6-kb-long USH2A coding sequence. In the present study, we adopted an alternative strategy to successfully generate scaffold/matrix attachment region (S/MAR) DNA plasmid vectors containing the full-length human USH2A coding sequence, a GFP reporter gene, and a ubiquitous promoter (CMV or CAG), reaching a size of approximately 23 kb. We assessed the vectors in transfected HEK293 cells and USH2A patient-derived dermal fibroblasts in addition to ush2au507 zebrafish microinjected with the vector at the one-cell stage. pS/MAR-USH2A vectors drove persistent transgene expression in patient fibroblasts with restoration of usherin. Twelve months of GFP expression was detected in the photoreceptor cells, with rescue of Usher 2 complex localization in the photoreceptors of ush2au507 zebrafish retinas injected with pS/MAR-USH2A. To our knowledge, this is the first reported vector that can be used to express full-length usherin with functional rescue. S/MAR DNA vectors have shown promise as a novel non-viral retinal gene therapy, warranting further translational development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Toms
- Development, Ageing, and Disease, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London EC1V 9EL, UK; Ocular Genomics and Therapeutics, The Francis Crick Institute, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Lyes Toualbi
- Development, Ageing, and Disease, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London EC1V 9EL, UK; Ocular Genomics and Therapeutics, The Francis Crick Institute, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Patrick V Almeida
- DNA Vector Research, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Richard Harbottle
- DNA Vector Research, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Mariya Moosajee
- Development, Ageing, and Disease, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London EC1V 9EL, UK; Ocular Genomics and Therapeutics, The Francis Crick Institute, London NW1 1AT, UK; Department of Genetics, Moorfields Eye Hospital, NHS Foundation Trust, London EC1V 2PD, UK.
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6
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Lee H, Noh H. Advancements in Nanogels for Enhanced Ocular Drug Delivery: Cutting-Edge Strategies to Overcome Eye Barriers. Gels 2023; 9:718. [PMID: 37754399 PMCID: PMC10529109 DOI: 10.3390/gels9090718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Nanomedicine in gel or particle formation holds considerable potential for enhancing passive and active targeting within ocular drug delivery systems. The complex barriers of the eye, exemplified by the intricate network of closely connected tissue structures, pose significant challenges for drug administration. Leveraging the capability of engineered nanomedicine offers a promising approach to enhance drug penetration, particularly through active targeting agents such as protein peptides and aptamers, which facilitate targeted release and heightened bioavailability. Simultaneously, DNA carriers have emerged as a cutting-edge class of active-targeting structures, connecting active targeting agents and illustrating their potential in ocular drug delivery applications. This review aims to consolidate recent findings regarding the optimization of various nanoparticles, i.e., hydrogel-based systems, incorporating both passive and active targeting agents for ocular drug delivery, thereby identifying novel mechanisms and strategies. Furthermore, the review delves into the potential application of DNA nanostructures, exploring their role in the development of targeted drug delivery approaches within the field of ocular therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hyeran Noh
- Department of Optometry, Seoul National University of Science and Technology, Gongnung-ro 232, Nowon-gu, Seoul 01811, Republic of Korea;
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7
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Major L, McClements ME, MacLaren RE. A Review of CRISPR Tools for Treating Usher Syndrome: Applicability, Safety, Efficiency, and In Vivo Delivery. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24087603. [PMID: 37108761 PMCID: PMC10146473 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
This review considers research into the treatment of Usher syndrome, a deaf-blindness syndrome inherited in an autosomal recessive manner. Usher syndrome mutations are markedly heterogeneous, involving many different genes, and research grants are limited due to minimal patient populations. Furthermore, gene augmentation therapies are impossible in all but three Usher syndromes as the cDNA sequence exceeds the 4.7 kb AAV packaging limit. It is, therefore, vital to focus research efforts on alternative tools with the broadest applicability. The CRISPR field took off in recent years following the discovery of the DNA editing activity of Cas9 in 2012. New generations of CRISPR tools have succeeded the original CRISPR/Cas9 model to enable more sophisticated genomic amendments such as epigenetic modification and precise sequence alterations. This review will evaluate the most popular CRISPR tools to date: CRISPR/Cas9, base editing, and prime editing. It will consider these tools in terms of applicability (in relation to the ten most prevalent USH2A mutations), safety, efficiency, and in vivo delivery potential with the intention of guiding future research investment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Major
- Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences & NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Michelle E McClements
- Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences & NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Robert E MacLaren
- Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences & NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
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8
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Directing the Way-Receptor and Chemical Targeting Strategies for Nucleic Acid Delivery. Pharm Res 2023; 40:47-76. [PMID: 36109461 PMCID: PMC9483255 DOI: 10.1007/s11095-022-03385-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Nucleic acid therapeutics have shown great potential for the treatment of numerous diseases, such as genetic disorders, cancer and infections. Moreover, they have been successfully used as vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic. In order to unfold full therapeutical potential, these nano agents have to overcome several barriers. Therefore, directed transport to specific tissues and cell types remains a central challenge to receive carrier systems with enhanced efficiency and desired biodistribution profiles. Active targeting strategies include receptor-targeting, mediating cellular uptake based on ligand-receptor interactions, and chemical targeting, enabling cell-specific delivery as a consequence of chemically and structurally modified carriers. With a focus on synthetic delivery systems including polyplexes, lipid-based systems such as lipoplexes and lipid nanoparticles, and direct conjugates optimized for various types of nucleic acids (DNA, mRNA, siRNA, miRNA, oligonucleotides), we highlight recent achievements, exemplified by several nucleic acid drugs on the market, and discuss challenges for targeted delivery to different organs such as brain, eye, liver, lung, spleen and muscle in vivo.
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9
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Staurenghi F, McClements ME, Salman A, MacLaren RE. Minicircle Delivery to the Neural Retina as a Gene Therapy Approach. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:11673. [PMID: 36232975 PMCID: PMC9569440 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231911673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-viral gene therapy has the potential to overcome several shortcomings in viral vector-based therapeutics. Methods of in vivo plasmid delivery have developed over recent years to increase the efficiency of non-viral gene transfer, yet further improvements still need to be made to improve their translational capacity. Gene therapy advances for inherited retinal disease have been particularly prominent over the recent decade but overcoming physical and physiological barriers present in the eye remains a key obstacle in the field of non-viral ocular drug delivery. Minicircles are circular double-stranded DNA vectors that contain expression cassettes devoid of bacterial DNA, thereby limiting the risks of innate immune responses induced by such elements. To date, they have not been extensively used in pre-clinical studies yet remain a viable vector option for the treatment of inherited retinal disease. Here, we explore the potential of minicircle DNA delivery to the neural retina as a gene therapy approach. We consider the advantages of minicircles as gene therapy vectors as well as review the challenges involved in optimising their delivery to the neural retina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Staurenghi
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Michelle E. McClements
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Ahmed Salman
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Robert E. MacLaren
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
- Oxford University Hospital, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
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10
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Sun D, Sun W, Gao SQ, Lehrer J, Naderi A, Wei C, Lee S, Schilb AL, Scheidt J, Hall RC, Traboulsi EI, Palczewski K, Lu ZR. Effective gene therapy of Stargardt disease with PEG-ECO/ pGRK1-ABCA4-S/MAR nanoparticles. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2022; 29:823-835. [PMID: 36159595 PMCID: PMC9463552 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2022.08.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Stargardt disease (STGD) is the most common form of inherited retinal genetic disorders and is often caused by mutations in ABCA4. Gene therapy has the promise to effectively treat monogenic retinal disorders. However, clinically approved adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors do not have a loading capacity for large genes, such as ABCA4. Self-assembly nanoparticles composed of (1-aminoethyl)iminobis[N-(oleoylcysteinyl-1-amino-ethyl)propionamide (ECO; a multifunctional pH-sensitive/ionizable amino lipid) and plasmid DNA produce gene transfection comparable with or better than the AAV2 capsid. Stable PEG-ECO/pGRK1-ABCA4-S/MAR nanoparticles produce specific and prolonged expression of ABCA4 in the photoreceptors of Abca4 -/- mice and significantly inhibit accumulation of toxic A2E in the eye. Multiple subretinal injections enhance gene expression and therapeutic efficacy with an approximately 69% reduction in A2E accumulation in Abca4 -/- mice after 3 doses. Very mild inflammation was observed after multiple injections of the nanoparticles. PEG-ECO/pGRK1-ABCA4-S/MAR nanoparticles are a promising non-viral mediated gene therapy modality for STGD type 1 (STGD1).
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Affiliation(s)
- Da Sun
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, 10900 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Wenyu Sun
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, 10900 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Song-Qi Gao
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, 10900 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Jonathan Lehrer
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, 10900 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Amirreza Naderi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, 10900 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Cheng Wei
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, 10900 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Sangjoon Lee
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, 10900 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Andrew L. Schilb
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, 10900 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Josef Scheidt
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, 10900 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Ryan C. Hall
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, 10900 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Elias I. Traboulsi
- Department of Pediatric Ophthalmology and Center for Genetic Eye Diseases, Cole Eye Institute, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Krzysztof Palczewski
- Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Departments of Physiology and Biophysics, Chemistry, and Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Zheng-Rong Lu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, 10900 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
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11
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Panikker P, Roy S, Ghosh A, Poornachandra B, Ghosh A. Advancing precision medicines for ocular disorders: Diagnostic genomics to tailored therapies. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:906482. [PMID: 35911417 PMCID: PMC9334564 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.906482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Successful sequencing of the human genome and evolving functional knowledge of gene products has taken genomic medicine to the forefront, soon combining broadly with traditional diagnostics, therapeutics, and prognostics in patients. Recent years have witnessed an extraordinary leap in our understanding of ocular diseases and their respective genetic underpinnings. As we are entering the age of genomic medicine, rapid advances in genome sequencing, gene delivery, genome surgery, and computational genomics enable an ever-increasing capacity to provide a precise and robust diagnosis of diseases and the development of targeted treatment strategies. Inherited retinal diseases are a major source of blindness around the world where a large number of causative genes have been identified, paving the way for personalized diagnostics in the clinic. Developments in functional genetics and gene transfer techniques has also led to the first FDA approval of gene therapy for LCA, a childhood blindness. Many such retinal diseases are the focus of various clinical trials, making clinical diagnoses of retinal diseases, their underlying genetics and the studies of natural history important. Here, we review methodologies for identifying new genes and variants associated with various ocular disorders and the complexities associated with them. Thereafter we discuss briefly, various retinal diseases and the application of genomic technologies in their diagnosis. We also discuss the strategies, challenges, and potential of gene therapy for the treatment of inherited and acquired retinal diseases. Additionally, we discuss the translational aspects of gene therapy, the important vector types and considerations for human trials that may help advance personalized therapeutics in ophthalmology. Retinal disease research has led the application of precision diagnostics and precision therapies; therefore, this review provides a general understanding of the current status of precision medicine in ophthalmology.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Shomereeta Roy
- Grow Research Laboratory, Narayana Nethralaya Foundation, Bengaluru, India
| | - Anuprita Ghosh
- Grow Research Laboratory, Narayana Nethralaya Foundation, Bengaluru, India
| | | | - Arkasubhra Ghosh
- Grow Research Laboratory, Narayana Nethralaya Foundation, Bengaluru, India
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12
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Bohley M, Dillinger AE, Tamm ER, Goepferich A. Targeted drug delivery to the retinal pigment epithelium: Untapped therapeutic potential for retinal diseases. Drug Discov Today 2022; 27:2497-2509. [PMID: 35654389 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2022.05.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Revised: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) plays a crucial part in sight-threatening diseases. In this review, we shed light on the pivotal implication of the RPE in age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy and retinopathy of prematurity; and explain why a paradigm shift toward targeted RPE therapy is needed to efficiently fight these retinal diseases. We provide guidance for the development of RPE-specific nanotherapeutics by giving a comprehensive overview of the possibilities and challenges of drug delivery to the RPE and highlight successful nanotherapeutic approaches targeting the RPE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marilena Bohley
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, University of Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany.
| | - Andrea E Dillinger
- Department of Human Anatomy and Embryology, University of Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Ernst R Tamm
- Department of Human Anatomy and Embryology, University of Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Achim Goepferich
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, University of Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
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13
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Miller LR, Tarantini S, Nyúl-Tóth Á, Johnston MP, Martin T, Bullen EC, Bickel MA, Sonntag WE, Yabluchanskiy A, Csiszar A, Ungvari ZI, Elliott MH, Conley SM. Increased Susceptibility to Cerebral Microhemorrhages Is Associated With Imaging Signs of Microvascular Degeneration in the Retina in an Insulin-Like Growth Factor 1 Deficient Mouse Model of Accelerated Aging. Front Aging Neurosci 2022; 14:788296. [PMID: 35356301 PMCID: PMC8959924 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2022.788296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Age-related cerebrovascular defects contribute to vascular cognitive impairment and dementia (VCID) as well as other forms of dementia. There has been great interest in developing biomarkers and other tools for studying cerebrovascular disease using more easily accessible tissues outside the brain such as the retina. Decreased circulating insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) levels in aging are thought to contribute to the development of cerebrovascular impairment, a hypothesis that has been supported by the use of IGF-1 deficient animal models. Here we evaluate vascular and other retinal phenotypes in animals with circulating IGF-1 deficiency and ask whether the retina mimics common age-related vascular changes in the brain such as the development of microhemorrhages. Using a hypertension-induced model, we confirm that IGF-1 deficient mice exhibited worsened microhemorrhages than controls. The retinas of IGF-1 deficient animals do not exhibit microhemorrhages but do exhibit signs of vascular damage and retinal stress such as patterns of vascular constriction and Müller cell activation. These signs of retinal stress are not accompanied by retinal degeneration or impaired neuronal function. These data suggest that the role of IGF-1 in the retina is complex, and while IGF-1 deficiency leads to vascular defects in both the brain and the retina, not all brain pathologies are evident in the retina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren R. Miller
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
| | - Stefano Tarantini
- Vascular Cognitive Impairment and Neurodegeneration Program, Oklahoma Center for Geroscience and Healthy Brain Aging, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States,Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City, OK, United States,International Training Program in Geroscience, Doctoral School of Basic and Translational Medicine/Department of Public Health, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Ádám Nyúl-Tóth
- Vascular Cognitive Impairment and Neurodegeneration Program, Oklahoma Center for Geroscience and Healthy Brain Aging, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States,International Training Program in Geroscience, Doctoral School of Basic and Translational Medicine/Department of Public Health, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary,International Training Program in Geroscience, Institute of Biophysics, Biological Research Centre, Eötvös Loránd Research Network, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Morgan P. Johnston
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
| | - Teryn Martin
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
| | - Elizabeth C. Bullen
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
| | - Marisa A. Bickel
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
| | - William E. Sonntag
- Vascular Cognitive Impairment and Neurodegeneration Program, Oklahoma Center for Geroscience and Healthy Brain Aging, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
| | - Andriy Yabluchanskiy
- Vascular Cognitive Impairment and Neurodegeneration Program, Oklahoma Center for Geroscience and Healthy Brain Aging, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
| | - Anna Csiszar
- Vascular Cognitive Impairment and Neurodegeneration Program, Oklahoma Center for Geroscience and Healthy Brain Aging, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States,International Training Program in Geroscience, Doctoral School of Basic and Translational Medicine/Department of Public Health, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Zoltan I. Ungvari
- Vascular Cognitive Impairment and Neurodegeneration Program, Oklahoma Center for Geroscience and Healthy Brain Aging, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States,International Training Program in Geroscience, Doctoral School of Basic and Translational Medicine/Department of Public Health, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Michael H. Elliott
- Department of Ophthalmology, Dean McGee Eye Institute, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States,Department of Physiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
| | - Shannon M. Conley
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States,*Correspondence: Shannon M. Conley,
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14
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Gil CH, Chakraborty D, Vieira CP, Prasain N, Calzi SL, Fortmann SD, Hu P, Banno K, Jamal M, Huang C, Sielski MS, Lin Y, Huang X, Dupont MD, Floyd JL, Prasad R, Longhini ALF, McGill TJ, Chung HM, Murphy MP, Kotton DN, Boulton ME, Yoder MC, Grant MB. Specific mesoderm subset derived from human pluripotent stem cells ameliorates microvascular pathology in type 2 diabetic mice. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabm5559. [PMID: 35245116 PMCID: PMC8896785 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abm5559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) were differentiated into a specific mesoderm subset characterized by KDR+CD56+APLNR+ (KNA+) expression. KNA+ cells had high clonal proliferative potential and specification into endothelial colony-forming cell (ECFCs) phenotype. KNA+ cells differentiated into perfused blood vessels when implanted subcutaneously into the flank of nonobese diabetic/severe combined immunodeficient mice and when injected into the vitreous of type 2 diabetic mice (db/db mice). Transcriptomic analysis showed that differentiation of hiPSCs derived from diabetics into KNA+ cells was sufficient to change baseline differences in gene expression caused by the diabetic status and reprogram diabetic cells to a pattern similar to KNA+ cells derived from nondiabetic hiPSCs. Proteomic array studies performed on retinas of db/db mice injected with either control or diabetic donor-derived KNA+ cells showed correction of aberrant signaling in db/db retinas toward normal healthy retina. These data provide "proof of principle" that KNA+ cells restore perfusion and correct vascular dysfunction in db/db mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang-Hyun Gil
- Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
- Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Dibyendu Chakraborty
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Cristiano P. Vieira
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Nutan Prasain
- Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
- Astellas Institute for Regenerative Medicine (AIRM), Westborough, MA 01581, USA
| | - Sergio Li Calzi
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Seth D. Fortmann
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
- Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP), School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Ping Hu
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Kimihiko Banno
- Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
- Department of Physiology II, Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Nara 634-8521, Japan
| | - Mohamed Jamal
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Pulmonary Center, and Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
- Department of Endodontics, Hamdan Bin Mohammed College of Dental Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai 00000, UAE
| | - Chao Huang
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Micheli S. Sielski
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Yang Lin
- Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
- Department of Medicine, Ansary Stem Cell Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Xinxin Huang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
- Zhongshan-Xuhui Hospital and Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 310104, China
| | - Mariana D. Dupont
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Jason L. Floyd
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Ram Prasad
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Ana Leda F. Longhini
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
- Flow Cytometry Core Facility, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC), New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Trevor J. McGill
- Department of Ophthalmology, Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
| | - Hyung-Min Chung
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, School of Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea
| | - Michael P. Murphy
- Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Darrell N. Kotton
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Pulmonary Center, and Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Michael E. Boulton
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Mervin C. Yoder
- Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
- Indiana Center for Regenerative Medicine and Engineering, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Maria B. Grant
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
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15
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Co-Injection of Sulfotyrosine Facilitates Retinal Uptake of Hyaluronic Acid Nanospheres Following Intravitreal Injection. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13091510. [PMID: 34575586 PMCID: PMC8469555 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13091510] [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: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Gene and drug delivery to the retina is a critical therapeutic goal. While the majority of inherited forms of retinal degeneration affect the outer retina, specifically the photoreceptors and retinal pigment epithelium, effective targeted delivery to this region requires invasive subretinal delivery. Our goal in this work was to evaluate two innovative approaches for increasing both the persistence of delivered nanospheres and their penetration into the outer retina while using the much less invasive intravitreal delivery method. We formulated novel hyaluronic acid nanospheres (HA-NS, 250 nm and 500 nm in diameter) conjugated to fluorescent reporters and delivered them intravitreally to the adult Balb/C mouse retina. They exhibited persistence in the vitreous and along the inner limiting membrane (ILM) for up to 30 days (longest timepoint examined) but little retinal penetration. We thus evaluated the ability of the small molecule, sulfotyrosine, to disrupt the ILM, and found that 3.2 µg/µL sulfotyrosine led to significant improvement in delivery to the outer retina following intravitreal injections without causing retinal inflammation, degeneration, or loss of function. Co-delivery of sulfotyrosine and HA-NS led to robust improvements in penetration of HA-NS into the retina and accumulation along the interface between the photoreceptors and the retinal pigment epithelium. These exciting findings suggest that sulfotyrosine and HA-NS may be an effective strategy for outer retinal targeting after intravitreal injection.
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16
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Mulia GE, Picanço-Castro V, Stavrou EF, Athanassiadou A, Figueiredo ML. Advances in the Development and the Applications of Non-viral, Episomal Vectors for Gene Therapy. Hum Gene Ther 2021; 32:1076-1095. [PMID: 34348480 PMCID: PMC8819515 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2020.310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Nonviral and nonintegrating episomal vectors are reemerging as a valid, alternative technology to integrating viral vectors for gene therapy, due to their more favorable safety profile, significantly lower risk for insertional mutagenesis, and a lesser potential for innate immune reactions, in addition to their low production cost. Over the past few years, attempts have been made to generate highly functional nonviral vectors that display long-term maintenance within cells and promote more sustained gene expression relative to conventional plasmids. Extensive research into the parameters that stabilize the episomal DNA within dividing and nondividing cells has shed light into the genetic and epigenetic mechanisms that govern replication and transcription of episomal DNA within a mammalian nucleus in long-term cell culture. Episomal vectors based on scaffold/matrix attachment regions (S/MARs) do not integrate into the genomic DNA and address the serious problem of plasmid loss during mitosis by providing mitotic stability to established plasmids, which results in long-term transfection and transgene expression. The inclusion, in such vectors, of an origin of replication—initiation region—from the human genome has greatly enhanced their performance in primary cell culture. A number of vectors that function as episomes have arisen, which are either devoid or depleted of harmful CpG sequences and bacterial genes, and their effectiveness, as well as that of nonintegrating viral episomes, is enhanced when combined with S/MAR elements. As a result of these advances, an “S/MAR technology” has emerged for the production of efficient episomal vectors. Significant research continues in this field and innovations, in combination with promising systems based on nanoparticles and potentially combined with physical delivery methods, will enable the generation of optimized systems with scale-up and clinical application suitability utilizing episomal vectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace E Mulia
- Purdue University, Basic Medical Sciences, West Lafayette, Indiana, United States;
| | - Virginia Picanço-Castro
- University of Sao Paulo Faculty of Medicine of Ribeirao Preto, 54539, Center for Cell-based Therapy, Ribeirao Preto, São Paulo, Brazil;
| | - Eleana F Stavrou
- University of Patras, Department of General Biology, Patras, Greece;
| | - Aglaia- Athanassiadou
- University of Patras Medical School, General Biology, Asklepiou str, University Campus, Rion Patras, Greece, 26504;
| | - Marxa L Figueiredo
- Purdue University, Basic Medical Sciences, 625 Harrison St., LYNN 2177, West Lafayette, Indiana, United States, 47907;
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17
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Sahu B, Chug I, Khanna H. The Ocular Gene Delivery Landscape. Biomolecules 2021; 11:1135. [PMID: 34439800 PMCID: PMC8394578 DOI: 10.3390/biom11081135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The eye is at the forefront of developing therapies for genetic diseases. With the FDA approval of the first gene-therapy drug for a form of congenital blindness, numerous studies have been initiated to develop gene therapies for other forms of eye diseases. These examinations have revealed new information about the benefits as well as restrictions to using drug-delivery routes to the different parts of the eye. In this article, we will discuss a brief history of gene therapy and its importance to the eye and ocular delivery landscape that is currently being investigated, and provide insights into their advantages and disadvantages. Efficient delivery routes and vehicle are crucial for an effective, safe, and longer-lasting therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Hemant Khanna
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, UMass Medical School, Worcester, MA 01655, USA; (B.S.); (I.C.)
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18
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Delivery of Genetic Information: Viral Vector and Nonviral Vector Gene Therapies. Int Ophthalmol Clin 2021; 61:35-57. [PMID: 34196317 DOI: 10.1097/iio.0000000000000360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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19
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Xu D, Khan MA, Klufas MA, Ho AC. Administration of Ocular Gene Therapy. Int Ophthalmol Clin 2021; 61:131-149. [PMID: 34196321 DOI: 10.1097/iio.0000000000000365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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20
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Ciulla T, Pennesi ME, Kiss S, Cunningham ET. DNA- and RNA-based Gene Therapies in Ophthalmology. Int Ophthalmol Clin 2021; 61:3-16. [PMID: 34196315 DOI: 10.1097/iio.0000000000000359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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21
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Graceffa V. Physical and mechanical cues affecting biomaterial-mediated plasmid DNA delivery: insights into non-viral delivery systems. J Genet Eng Biotechnol 2021; 19:90. [PMID: 34142237 PMCID: PMC8211807 DOI: 10.1186/s43141-021-00194-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Whilst traditional strategies to increase transfection efficiency of non-viral systems aimed at modifying the vector or the polyplexes/lipoplexes, biomaterial-mediated gene delivery has recently sparked increased interest. This review aims at discussing biomaterial properties and unravelling underlying mechanisms of action, for biomaterial-mediated gene delivery. DNA internalisation and cytoplasmic transport are initially discussed. DNA immobilisation, encapsulation and surface-mediated gene delivery (SMD), the role of extracellular matrix (ECM) and topographical cues, biomaterial stiffness and mechanical stimulation are finally outlined. MAIN TEXT Endocytic pathways and mechanisms to escape the lysosomal network are highly variable. They depend on cell and DNA complex types but can be diverted using appropriate biomaterials. 3D scaffolds are generally fabricated via DNA immobilisation or encapsulation. Degradation rate and interaction with the vector affect temporal patterns of DNA release and transgene expression. In SMD, DNA is instead coated on 2D surfaces. SMD allows the incorporation of topographical cues, which, by inducing cytoskeletal re-arrangements, modulate DNA endocytosis. Incorporation of ECM mimetics allows cell type-specific transfection, whereas in spite of discordances in terms of optimal loading regimens, it is recognised that mechanical loading facilitates gene transfection. Finally, stiffer 2D substrates enhance DNA internalisation, whereas in 3D scaffolds, the role of stiffness is still dubious. CONCLUSION Although it is recognised that biomaterials allow the creation of tailored non-viral gene delivery systems, there still are many outstanding questions. A better characterisation of endocytic pathways would allow the diversion of cell adhesion processes and cytoskeletal dynamics, in order to increase cellular transfection. Further research on optimal biomaterial mechanical properties, cell ligand density and loading regimens is limited by the fact that such parameters influence a plethora of other different processes (e.g. cellular adhesion, spreading, migration, infiltration, and proliferation, DNA diffusion and release) which may in turn modulate gene delivery. Only a better understanding of these processes may allow the creation of novel robust engineered systems, potentially opening up a whole new area of biomaterial-guided gene delivery for non-viral systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Graceffa
- Cellular Health and Toxicology Research Group (CHAT), Institute of Technology Sligo, Ash Ln, Bellanode, Sligo, Ireland.
- Department of Life Sciences, Institute of Technology Sligo, Ash Ln, Bellanode, Sligo, Ireland.
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22
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Scheive M, Yazdani S, Hajrasouliha AR. The utility and risks of therapeutic nanotechnology in the retina. Ther Adv Ophthalmol 2021; 13:25158414211003381. [PMID: 33817552 PMCID: PMC7989128 DOI: 10.1177/25158414211003381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2020] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The clinical application of nanotechnology in medicine is promising for therapeutic, diagnostic, and surgical improvements in the near future. Nanotechnologies in nano-ophthalmology are in the early stages of application in clinical contexts, including ocular drug and gene delivery systems addressing eye disorders, particularly retinopathies. Retinal diseases are challenging to treat as current interventions, such as intravitreal injections, are limited by their invasive nature. This review examines nanotechnological approaches to retinal diseases in a clinical context. Nanotechnology has the potential to transform pharmacological and surgical interventions by overcoming limitations posed by the protective anatomical and physiological barriers that limit access to the retina. Preclinical research in the application of nanoparticles in diagnostics indicates that nanoparticles can enhance existing diagnostic and screening tools to detect diseases earlier and more easily and improve disease progression monitoring precision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Scheive
- Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Saeed Yazdani
- Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Amir R Hajrasouliha
- Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology, Eugene and Marilyn Glick Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Indiana University School of Medicine, 1160 W Michigan St., Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
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23
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Toualbi L, Toms M, Moosajee M. The Landscape of Non-Viral Gene Augmentation Strategies for Inherited Retinal Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:2318. [PMID: 33652562 PMCID: PMC7956638 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22052318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Inherited retinal diseases (IRDs) are a heterogeneous group of disorders causing progressive loss of vision, affecting approximately one in 1000 people worldwide. Gene augmentation therapy, which typically involves using adeno-associated viral vectors for delivery of healthy gene copies to affected tissues, has shown great promise as a strategy for the treatment of IRDs. However, the use of viruses is associated with several limitations, including harmful immune responses, genome integration, and limited gene carrying capacity. Here, we review the advances in non-viral gene augmentation strategies, such as the use of plasmids with minimal bacterial backbones and scaffold/matrix attachment region (S/MAR) sequences, that have the capability to overcome these weaknesses by accommodating genes of any size and maintaining episomal transgene expression with a lower risk of eliciting an immune response. Low retinal transfection rates remain a limitation, but various strategies, including coupling the DNA with different types of chemical vehicles (nanoparticles) and the use of electrical methods such as iontophoresis and electrotransfection to aid cell entry, have shown promise in preclinical studies. Non-viral gene therapy may offer a safer and effective option for future treatment of IRDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lyes Toualbi
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London EC1V 9EL, UK; (L.T.); (M.T.)
- The Francis Crick Institute, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Maria Toms
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London EC1V 9EL, UK; (L.T.); (M.T.)
- The Francis Crick Institute, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Mariya Moosajee
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London EC1V 9EL, UK; (L.T.); (M.T.)
- The Francis Crick Institute, London NW1 1AT, UK
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London EC1V 2PD, UK
- Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Found Trust, London WC1N 3JH, UK
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24
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Kansara V, Muya L, Wan CR, Ciulla TA. Suprachoroidal Delivery of Viral and Nonviral Gene Therapy for Retinal Diseases. J Ocul Pharmacol Ther 2020; 36:384-392. [PMID: 32255727 PMCID: PMC7404827 DOI: 10.1089/jop.2019.0126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal gene therapy is a rapidly growing field with numerous clinical trials underway, and route of delivery is a critical contributor to its success. Subretinal administration, which involves pars plana vitrectomy in the operating room, offers targeted delivery to retinal-pigment epithelium cells and photoreceptors. Due to the immune-privileged nature of the subretinal space, the risk of an immune reaction against viral capsid antigens is minimized, an advantage of subretinal administration in patients with preexisting neutralizing antibodies. Intravitreal administration, with fewer procedure-related complications, is challenged by potential immune response and incomplete vector penetration through the internal limiting membrane. However, novel vectors, optimized by "directed evolution" may address these issues. Nonsurgical in-office suprachoroidal gene delivery offers the potential for greater surface-area coverage of the posterior segment compared to focal subretinal injection, and is not hindered by the internal limiting membrane. However, the vector must pass through multiple layers to reach the targeted retinal layers, and there is a risk of immune response. This review highlights recent developments, challenges, and future opportunities associated with viral and nonviral suprachoroidal gene delivery for the treatment of chorioretinal diseases. While ocular tolerability and short-term effectiveness of suprachoroidal gene delivery have been demonstrated in preclinical models, durability of gene expression, long-term safety, potential systemic exposure, and effective delivery to the macula require further exploration. Although the safety and efficacy of suprachoroidal gene delivery are yet to be proven in clinical trials, further optimization could facilitate nonsurgical in-office suprachoroidal gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Leroy Muya
- Clearside Biomedical, Inc., Alpharetta, Georgia
| | | | - Thomas A. Ciulla
- Clearside Biomedical, Inc., Alpharetta, Georgia
- Address correspondence to: Dr. Thomas A. Ciulla, Clearside Biomedical, Inc., 900 Northpoint Parkway Suite 200, Alpharetta, GA 30005
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25
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Chakraborty D, Strayve DG, Makia MS, Conley SM, Kakahel M, Al-Ubaidi MR, Naash MI. Novel molecular mechanisms for Prph2-associated pattern dystrophy. FASEB J 2019; 34:1211-1230. [PMID: 31914632 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201901888r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2019] [Revised: 10/10/2019] [Accepted: 11/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Mutations in peripherin 2 (PRPH2) have been associated with retinitis pigmentosa (RP) and macular/pattern dystrophies, but the origin of this phenotypic variability is unclear. The majority of Prph2 mutations are located in the large intradiscal loop (D2), a region that contains seven cysteines involved in intra- and intermolecular disulfide bonding and protein folding. A mutation at cysteine 213, which is engaged in an intramolecular disulfide bond, leads to butterfly-shaped pattern dystrophy in humans, in sharp contrast to mutations in the adjacent cysteine at position 214 which result in RP. To help understand this unexpected phenotypic variability, we generated a knockin mouse line carrying the C213Y disease mutation. The mutant Prph2 protein lost the ability to oligomerize with rod outer segment membrane protein 1 (Rom1), but retained the ability to form homotetramers. C213Y heterozygotes had significantly decreased overall Prph2 levels as well as decreased rod and cone function. Critically, supplementation with extra wild-type Prph2 protein elicited improvements in Prph2 protein levels and rod outer segment structure, but not functional rescue in rods or cones. These findings suggest that not all interruptions of D2 loop intramolecular disulfide bonding lead to haploinsufficiency-related RP, but rather that more subtle changes can lead to mutant proteins stable enough to exert gain-of-function defects in rods and cones. This outcome highlights the difficulty in targeting Prph2-associated gain-of-function disease and suggests that elimination of the mutant protein will be a pre-requisite for any curative therapeutic strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dibyendu Chakraborty
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA.,Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Daniel G Strayve
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Mustafa S Makia
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Shannon M Conley
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Mashal Kakahel
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Muayyad R Al-Ubaidi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Muna I Naash
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
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Ocular gene therapies in clinical practice: viral vectors and nonviral alternatives. Drug Discov Today 2019; 24:1685-1693. [PMID: 31173914 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2019.05.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2018] [Revised: 02/17/2019] [Accepted: 05/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Ocular gene therapy has entered into clinical practice. Although viral vectors are currently the best option to replace and/or correct genes, the optimal method to deliver these treatments to the retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells and/or photoreceptor cells remains to be improved to increase transduction efficacy and reduce iatrogenic risks. Beyond viral-mediated gene replacement therapies, nonviral gene delivery approaches offer the promise of sustained fine-tuned expression of secreted therapeutic proteins that can be adapted to the evolving stage of the disease course and can address more common nongenetic retinal diseases, such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Here, we review current gene therapy strategies for ocular diseases, with a focus on clinical stage products.
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Mitsios A, Dubis AM, Moosajee M. Choroideremia: from genetic and clinical phenotyping to gene therapy and future treatments. Ther Adv Ophthalmol 2018; 10:2515841418817490. [PMID: 30627697 PMCID: PMC6311551 DOI: 10.1177/2515841418817490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2018] [Accepted: 11/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Choroideremia is an X-linked inherited chorioretinal dystrophy leading to blindness by late adulthood. Choroideremia is caused by mutations in the CHM gene which encodes Rab escort protein 1 (REP1), an ubiquitously expressed protein involved in intracellular trafficking and prenylation activity. The exact site of pathogenesis remains unclear but results in degeneration of the photoreceptors, retinal pigment epithelium and choroid. Animal and stem cell models have been used to study the molecular defects in choroideremia and test effectiveness of treatment interventions. Natural history studies of choroideremia have provided additional insight into the clinical phenotype of the condition and prepared the way for clinical trials aiming to investigate the safety and efficacy of suitable therapies. In this review, we provide a summary of the current knowledge on the genetics, pathophysiology, clinical features and therapeutic strategies that might become available for choroideremia in the future, including gene therapy, stem cell treatment and small-molecule drugs with nonsense suppression action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Mitsios
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Adam M Dubis
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Mariya Moosajee
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK
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29
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Assembly and Functional Analysis of an S/MAR Based Episome with the Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator Gene. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19041220. [PMID: 29673202 PMCID: PMC5979583 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19041220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2018] [Revised: 04/05/2018] [Accepted: 04/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Improving the efficacy of gene therapy vectors is still an important goal toward the development of safe and efficient gene therapy treatments. S/MAR (scaffold/matrix attached region)-based vectors are maintained extra-chromosomally in numerous cell types, which is similar to viral-based vectors. Additionally, when established as an episome, they show a very high mitotic stability. In the present study we tested the idea that addition of an S/MAR element to a CFTR (cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator) expression vector, may allow the establishment of a CFTR episome in bronchial epithelial cells. Starting from the observation that the S/MAR vector pEPI-EGFP (enhanced green fluorescence protein) is maintained as an episome in human bronchial epithelial cells, we assembled the CFTR vector pBQ-S/MAR. This vector, transfected in bronchial epithelial cells with mutated CFTR, supported long term wt CFTR expression and activity, which in turn positively impacted on the assembly of tight junctions in polarized epithelial cells. Additionally, the recovery of intact pBQ-S/MAR, but not the parental vector lacking the S/MAR element, from transfected cells after extensive proliferation, strongly suggested that pBQ-S/MAR was established as an episome. These results add a new element, the S/MAR, that can be considered to improve the persistence and safety of gene therapy vectors for cystic fibrosis pulmonary disease.
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30
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Kelley RA, Conley SM, Makkia R, Watson JN, Han Z, Cooper MJ, Naash MI. DNA nanoparticles are safe and nontoxic in non-human primate eyes. Int J Nanomedicine 2018; 13:1361-1379. [PMID: 29563793 PMCID: PMC5849385 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s157000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION DNA nanoparticles (NPs) comprising polylysine conjugated to polyethylene glycol efficiently target murine photoreceptors and the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and lead to long-term phenotypic improvement in models of retinal degeneration. Advancing this technology requires testing in a large animal model, particularly with regard to safety. So, herein we evaluate NPs in non-human primates (baboon). METHODS AND RESULTS NPs with plasmids carrying GFP and a ubiquitous, RPE-specific, or photoreceptor-specific promoter were delivered by either subretinal or intravitreal injection. We detected GFP message and protein in the retina/RPE from eyes dosed with NPs carrying ubiquitously expressed and RPE-specific vectors, and GFP message in eyes injected with NPs carrying photoreceptor-specific vectors. Importantly, we observed NP DNA in the retina/RPE following intravitreal injection, indicating the inner limiting membrane does not prevent NP diffusion into the outer retina. We did not observe any adverse events in any baboon, and there were no NP-associated changes in retinal function. Furthermore, no systemic or local inflammatory reaction to the vectors/injections was observed, and no NP DNA was found outside the eye. CONCLUSION Taken together with the well-established rodent safety and efficacy data, these findings suggest that DNA NPs may be a safe and potentially clinically viable nonviral ocular therapy platform for retinal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan A Kelley
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Shannon M Conley
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Rasha Makkia
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Jamie N Watson
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Zongchao Han
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | | | - Muna I Naash
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
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31
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Wang Y, Rajala A, Rajala RVS. Nanoparticles as Delivery Vehicles for the Treatment of Retinal Degenerative Diseases. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2018; 1074:117-123. [PMID: 29721935 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-75402-4_15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Over the last few years, huge progress has been made in the understanding of molecular mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of retinal degenerative diseases. Such knowledge has led to the development of gene therapy approaches to treat these devastating disorders. Non-viral gene delivery has been recognized as a prospective treatment for retinal degenerative diseases. In this review, we will summarize the constituent characteristics and recent applications of three representative nanoparticles (NPs) in ocular therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhong Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA.,Dean McGee Eye Institute, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Ammaji Rajala
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA.,Dean McGee Eye Institute, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Raju V S Rajala
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA. .,Dean McGee Eye Institute, Oklahoma City, OK, USA. .,Department of Physiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA. .,Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA.
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32
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Zulliger R, Watson JN, Al-Ubaidi MR, Padegimas L, Sesenoglu-Laird O, Cooper MJ, Naash MI. Optimizing Non-viral Gene Therapy Vectors for Delivery to Photoreceptors and Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2018; 1074:109-115. [PMID: 29721934 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-75402-4_14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Considerable progress has been made in the design and delivery of non-viral gene therapy vectors, but, like their viral counterparts, therapeutic levels of transgenes have not met the requirements for successful clinical applications so far. The biggest advantage of polymer-based nanoparticle vectors is the ease with which they can be modified to increase their ability to penetrate the cell membrane and target specific cells by simply changing the formulation of the nanoparticle compaction. We took advantage of this characteristic to improve transfection rates of our particles to meet the transgene levels which will be needed for future treatment of patients. For this study, we successfully investigated the possibility of our established pegylated polylysine particles to be administered via intravitreal rather than subretinal route to ease the damage during injection. We also demonstrated that our particles are flexible enough to sustain changes in the formulation to accommodate additional targeting sequences without losing their efficiency in transfecting neuronal cells in the retina. Together, these results give us the opportunity to even further improve our particles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahel Zulliger
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jamie N Watson
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Muayyad R Al-Ubaidi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | | | | | - Muna I Naash
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA.
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Mitra RN, Zheng M, Weiss ER, Han Z. Genomic form of rhodopsin DNA nanoparticles rescued autosomal dominant Retinitis pigmentosa in the P23H knock-in mouse model. Biomaterials 2017; 157:26-39. [PMID: 29232624 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2017.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2017] [Revised: 11/27/2017] [Accepted: 12/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is a group of inherited retinal degenerative conditions and a leading cause of irreversible blindness. 25%-30% of RP cases are caused by inherited autosomal dominant (ad) mutations in the rhodopsin (Rho) protein of the retina, which impose a barrier for developing therapeutic treatments for this genetically heterogeneous disorder, as simple gene replacement is not sufficient to overcome dominant disease alleles. Previously, we have explored using the genomic short-form of Rho (sgRho) for gene augmentation therapy of RP in a Rho knockout mouse model. We have shown improved gene expression and fewer epigenetic modifications compared with the use of a Rho cDNA expression construct. In the current study, we altered our strategy by delivering a codon-optimized genomic form of Rho (co-sgRho) (for gene replacement) in combination with an RNAi-based inactivation of endogenous Rho alleles (gene suppression of both mutant Rho alleles, but mismatched with the co-sgRho) into a homozygous RhoP23H/P23H knock-in (KI) RP mouse model, which has a severe phenotype of adRP. In addition, we have conjugated a cell penetrating TAT peptide sequence to our previously established CK30PEG10 diblock co-polymer. The DNAs were compacted with CK30PEG10-TAT diblock co-polymer to form DNA nanoparticles (NPs). These NPs were injected into the sub-retinal space of the KI mouse eyes. As a proof of concept, we demonstrated the efficiency of this strategy in the partial improvement of visual function in the RhoP23H/P23H KI mouse model.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Min Zheng
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Ellen R Weiss
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Zongchao Han
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; Carolina Institute for NanoMedicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.
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34
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Affiliation(s)
- Arthur Planul
- Inserm, Institut de la Vision, UMR S968, 75012 Paris, France;,
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Université Paris 6, UMR S968, 75012 Paris, France
- CNRS, UMR 7210, 75012 Paris, France
| | - Deniz Dalkara
- Inserm, Institut de la Vision, UMR S968, 75012 Paris, France;,
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Université Paris 6, UMR S968, 75012 Paris, France
- CNRS, UMR 7210, 75012 Paris, France
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35
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Magnetic nanoparticles: a strategy to target the choroidal layer in the posterior segment of the eye. Sci Rep 2017; 7:43092. [PMID: 28256525 PMCID: PMC5335660 DOI: 10.1038/srep43092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2016] [Accepted: 01/19/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the higher rate of blindness due to population aging, minimally invasive and selective drug delivery to the eye still remains an open challenge, especially in the posterior segment. The retina, the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and the choroid are posterior segment cell layers, which may be affected by several diseases. In particular, damages to the choroid are associated with poor prognosis in the most severe pathologies. A drug delivery approach, able to target the choroid, is still missing. Recently, we demonstrated that intravitreally injected magnetic nanoparticles (MNP) are able to rapidly and persistently localise within the RPE in an autonomous manner. In this work we functionalised the MNP surface with the vascular endothelial growth factor, a bioactive molecule capable of transcytosis from the RPE towards more posterior layers. Such functionalisation successfully addressed the MNPs to the choroid, while MNP functionalised with a control polypeptide (poly-L-lysine) showed the same localisation pattern of the naked MNP particles. These data suggest that the combination of MNP with different bioactive molecules could represent a powerful strategy for cell-specific targeting of the eye posterior segment.
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36
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Saraiva SM, Castro-López V, Pañeda C, Alonso MJ. Synthetic nanocarriers for the delivery of polynucleotides to the eye. Eur J Pharm Sci 2017; 103:5-18. [PMID: 28263915 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2017.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2016] [Revised: 02/28/2017] [Accepted: 03/01/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
This review is a comprehensive analysis of the progress made so far on the delivery of polynucleotide-based therapeutics to the eye, using synthetic nanocarriers. Attention has been addressed to the capacity of different nanocarriers for the specific delivery of polynucleotides to both, the anterior and posterior segments of the eye, with emphasis on their ability to (i) improve the transport of polynucleotides across the different eye barriers; (ii) promote their intracellular penetration into the target cells; (iii) protect them against degradation and, (iv) deliver them in a long-term fashion way. Overall, the conclusion is that despite the advantages that nanotechnology may offer to the area of ocular polynucleotide-based therapies (especially AS-ODN and siRNA delivery), the knowledge disclosed so far is still limited. This fact underlines the necessity of more fundamental and product-oriented research for making the way of the said nanotherapies towards clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia M Saraiva
- Center for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CIMUS), Av. Barcelona s/n, Campus Vida, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Vanessa Castro-López
- Center for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CIMUS), Av. Barcelona s/n, Campus Vida, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Covadonga Pañeda
- Sylentis, R&D Department, c/Santiago Grisolía 2, 28760 Tres Cantos, Madrid, Spain
| | - María José Alonso
- Center for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CIMUS), Av. Barcelona s/n, Campus Vida, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain; Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, School of Pharmacy, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain; Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
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37
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Sun D, Sahu B, Gao S, Schur RM, Vaidya AM, Maeda A, Palczewski K, Lu ZR. Targeted Multifunctional Lipid ECO Plasmid DNA Nanoparticles as Efficient Non-viral Gene Therapy for Leber's Congenital Amaurosis. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2017. [PMID: 28624218 PMCID: PMC5363681 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2017.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Development of a gene delivery system with high efficiency and a good safety profile is essential for successful gene therapy. Here we developed a targeted non-viral delivery system using a multifunctional lipid ECO for treating Leber’s congenital amaurosis type 2 (LCA2) and tested this in a mouse model. ECO formed stable nanoparticles with plasmid DNA (pDNA) at a low amine to phosphate (N/P) ratio and mediated high gene transfection efficiency in ARPE-19 cells because of their intrinsic properties of pH-sensitive amphiphilic endosomal escape and reductive cytosolic release (PERC). All-trans-retinylamine, which binds to interphotoreceptor retinoid-binding protein (IRBP), was incorporated into the nanoparticles via a polyethylene glycol (PEG) spacer for targeted delivery of pDNA into the retinal pigmented epithelium. The targeted ECO/pDNA nanoparticles provided high GFP expression in the RPE of 1-month-old Rpe65−/− mice after subretinal injection. Such mice also exhibited a significant increase in electroretinographic activity, and this therapeutic effect continued for at least 120 days. A safety study in wild-type BALB/c mice indicated no irreversible retinal damage following subretinal injection of these targeted nanoparticles. All-trans-retinylamine-modified ECO/pDNA nanoparticles provide a promising non-viral platform for safe and effective treatment of RPE-specific monogenic eye diseases such as LCA2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Da Sun
- Case Center for Biomolecular Engineering and Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Bhubanananda Sahu
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Songqi Gao
- Department of Pharmacology and Cleveland Center for Membrane and Structural Biology, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44140, USA
| | - Rebecca M Schur
- Case Center for Biomolecular Engineering and Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Amita M Vaidya
- Case Center for Biomolecular Engineering and Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Akiko Maeda
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Krzysztof Palczewski
- Department of Pharmacology and Cleveland Center for Membrane and Structural Biology, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44140, USA
| | - Zheng-Rong Lu
- Case Center for Biomolecular Engineering and Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA.
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38
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In vivo genome editing as a potential treatment strategy for inherited retinal dystrophies. Prog Retin Eye Res 2016; 56:1-18. [PMID: 27623223 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2016.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2016] [Revised: 09/06/2016] [Accepted: 09/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
In vivo genome editing represents an emerging field in the treatment of monogenic disorders, as it may constitute a solution to the current hurdles in classic gene addition therapy, which are the low levels and limited duration of transgene expression. Following the introduction of a double strand break (DSB) at the mutational site by highly specific endonucleases, such as TALENs (transcription activator like effector nucleases) or RNA based nucleases (clustered regulatory interspaced short palindromic repeats - CRISPR-Cas), the cell's own DNA repair machinery restores integrity to the DNA strand and corrects the mutant sequence, thus allowing the cell to produce protein levels as needed. The DNA repair happens either through the error prone non-homologous end-joining (NHEJ) pathway or with high fidelity through homology directed repair (HDR) in the presence of a DNA donor template. A third pathway called microhomology mediated endjoining (MMEJ) has been recently discovered. In this review, the authors focus on the different DNA repair mechanisms, the current state of the art tools for genome editing and the particularities of the retina and photoreceptors with regard to in vivo therapeutic approaches. Finally, current attempts in the field of retinal in vivo genome editing are discussed and future directions of research identified.
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39
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Chakraborty D, Conley SM, Zulliger R, Naash MI. The K153Del PRPH2 mutation differentially impacts photoreceptor structure and function. Hum Mol Genet 2016; 25:3500-3514. [PMID: 27365499 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddw193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2016] [Revised: 05/18/2016] [Accepted: 06/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Peripherin 2 (Prph2) is a photoreceptor tetraspanin, and deletion of codon 153 (K153Δ) leads to retinitis pigmentosa, pattern dystrophy, and fundus flavimaculatus in the same family. To study this variability, we generated a K153Δ-Prph2 knockin mouse. K153Δ-Prph2 cannot form the complexes required for outer segment formation, and in cones cannot interact with its binding partner rod outer segment membrane protein 1. K153Δ causes dominant defects in rod and cone function; however, rod but not cone ultrastructure is improved by the presence of K153Δ-Prph2. Likewise, supplementation of K153Δ heterozygotes with WT-Prph2 results in structural but not functional improvements. These results support the idea that mutations may differentially affect Prph2's role as a structural component, and its role as a functional protein key for organizing membrane domains for cellular signalling. These roles may be different in rods and cones, thus contributing to the phenotypic heterogeneity that characterizes diseases associated with Prph2 mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dibyendu Chakraborty
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Shannon M Conley
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Rahel Zulliger
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Muna I Naash
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA.
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40
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Mitra RN, Nichols CA, Guo J, Makkia R, Cooper MJ, Naash MI, Han Z. Nanoparticle-mediated miR200-b delivery for the treatment of diabetic retinopathy. J Control Release 2016; 236:31-7. [PMID: 27297781 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2016.06.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2016] [Revised: 06/03/2016] [Accepted: 06/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
We recently reported that the Ins2(Akita) mouse is a good model for late-onset diabetic retinopathy. Here, we investigated the effect of miR200-b, a potential anti-angiogenic factor, on VEGF receptor 2 (VEGFR-2) expression and to determine the underlying angiogenic response in mouse endothelial cells, and in retinas from aged Ins2(Akita) mice. MiR200-b and its native flanking sequences were amplified and cloned into a pCAG-eGFP vector directed by the ubiquitous CAG promoter (namely pCAG-miR200-b-IRES-eGFP). The plasmid was compacted by CK30PEG10K into DNA nanoparticles (NPs) for in vivo delivery. Murine endothelial cell line, SVEC4-10, was first transfected with the plasmid. The mRNA levels of VEGF and VEGFR-2 were quantified by qRT-PCR and showed significant reduction in message expression compared with lipofectamine-transfected cells. Transfection of miR200-b suppressed the migration of SVEC4-10 cells. There was a significant inverse correlation between the level of expression of miR200-b and VEGFR-2. Intravitreal injection of miR200-b DNA NPs significantly reduced protein levels of VEGFR-2 as revealed by western blot and markedly suppressed angiogenesis as evaluated by fundus imaging in aged Ins2(Akita) mice even after 3months of post-injection. These findings suggest that NP-mediated miR200-b delivery has negatively regulated VEGFR-2 expression in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Chance A Nichols
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
| | - Junjing Guo
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
| | - Rasha Makkia
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
| | - Mark J Cooper
- Copernicus Therapeutics, Incorporated, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Muna I Naash
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA
| | - Zongchao Han
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; Carolina Institute for NanoMedicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.
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Kim N, Duncan GA, Hanes J, Suk JS. Barriers to inhaled gene therapy of obstructive lung diseases: A review. J Control Release 2016; 240:465-488. [PMID: 27196742 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2016.05.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2016] [Revised: 05/11/2016] [Accepted: 05/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Knowledge of genetic origins of obstructive lung diseases has made inhaled gene therapy an attractive alternative to the current standards of care that are limited to managing disease symptoms. Initial lung gene therapy clinical trials occurred in the early 1990s following the discovery of the genetic defect responsible for cystic fibrosis (CF), a monogenic disorder. However, despite over two decades of intensive effort, gene therapy has yet to help patients with CF or any other obstructive lung disease. The slow progress is due in part to poor understanding of the biological barriers to inhaled gene therapy. Encouragingly, clinical trials have shown that inhaled gene therapy with various viral vectors and non-viral gene vectors is well tolerated by patients, and continued research has provided valuable lessons and resources that may lead to future success of this therapeutic strategy. In this review, we first introduce representative obstructive lung diseases and examine limitations of currently available therapeutic options. We then review key components for successful execution of inhaled gene therapy, including gene delivery systems, primary physiological barriers and strategies to overcome them, and advances in preclinical disease models with which the most promising systems may be identified for human clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Namho Kim
- The Center for Nanomedicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
| | - Gregg A Duncan
- The Center for Nanomedicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - Justin Hanes
- The Center for Nanomedicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; Department of Environmental and Health Sciences, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Jung Soo Suk
- The Center for Nanomedicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA.
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Chan SC, Bubela T, Dimopoulos IS, Freund PR, Varkouhi AK, MacDonald IM. Choroideremia research: Report and perspectives on the second international scientific symposium for choroideremia. Ophthalmic Genet 2016; 37:267-75. [PMID: 26855058 DOI: 10.3109/13816810.2015.1088958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To discuss progress in research on choroideremia (CHM) and related retinopathies with special emphasis on gene therapy approaches. METHODS Biomedical and clinical researchers from across the world as well as representatives of the social science research community were convened to the 2nd International Scientific Symposium for Choroideremia in Denver, Colorado in June 2014 to enhance our understanding of CHM and accelerate the translation of research to clinical application for the benefit of those affected by CHM. RESULTS Pre-clinical research using cell and animal models continues to further our understanding in the pathogenesis of CHM as well as to demonstrate proof-of-concept for gene transfer strategies. With the advent of modern imaging technology, better outcome measures are being defined for upcoming clinical trials. Results from the first gene therapy trial in CHM show promise, with sustained visual improvement over 6 months post-treatment. Current and next-generation gene transfer approaches may make targeted vector delivery possible in the future for CHM and other inherited retinal diseases. CONCLUSIONS While no accepted therapies exist for CHM, promising approaches using viral-vectored gene therapy and cell therapies are entering clinical trials for eye diseases, with gene therapy trials underway for CHM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie C Chan
- a Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences , University of Alberta , Edmonton , Alberta , Canada
| | - Tania Bubela
- b School of Public Health , University of Alberta , Edmonton , Alberta , Canada
| | - Ioannis S Dimopoulos
- a Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences , University of Alberta , Edmonton , Alberta , Canada
| | - Paul R Freund
- a Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences , University of Alberta , Edmonton , Alberta , Canada
| | - Amir K Varkouhi
- a Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences , University of Alberta , Edmonton , Alberta , Canada
| | - Ian M MacDonald
- a Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences , University of Alberta , Edmonton , Alberta , Canada
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Mitra RN, Zheng M, Han Z. Nanoparticle-motivated gene delivery for ophthalmic application. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. NANOMEDICINE AND NANOBIOTECHNOLOGY 2016; 8:160-74. [PMID: 26109528 PMCID: PMC4688250 DOI: 10.1002/wnan.1356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2015] [Revised: 05/21/2015] [Accepted: 05/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Ophthalmic gene therapy is an intellectual and intentional manipulation of desired gene expression into the specific cells of an eye for the treatment of ophthalmic (ocular) genetic dystrophies and pathological conditions. Exogenous nucleic acids such as DNA, small interfering RNA, micro RNA, and so on, are used for the purpose of managing expression of the desired therapeutic proteins in ocular tissues. The delivery of unprotected nucleic acids into the cells is limited because of exogenous and endogenous degradation modalities. Nanotechnology, a promising and sophisticated cutting edge tool, works as a protective shelter for these therapeutic nucleic acids. They can be safely delivered to the required cells in order to modulate anticipated protein expression. To this end, nanotechnology is seen as a potential and promising strategy in the field of ocular gene delivery. This review focused on current nanotechnology modalities and other promising nonviral strategies being used to deliver therapeutic genes in order to treat various devastating ocular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Min Zheng
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Zongchao Han
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Carolina Institute for NanoMedicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
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Zulliger R, Conley SM, Naash MI. Non-viral therapeutic approaches to ocular diseases: An overview and future directions. J Control Release 2015; 219:471-487. [PMID: 26439665 PMCID: PMC4699668 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2015.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2015] [Revised: 10/01/2015] [Accepted: 10/02/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Currently there are no viable treatment options for patients with debilitating inherited retinal degeneration. The vast variability in disease-inducing mutations and resulting phenotypes has hampered the development of therapeutic interventions. Gene therapy is a logical approach, and recent work has focused on ways to optimize vector design and packaging to promote optimized expression and phenotypic rescue after intraocular delivery. In this review, we discuss ongoing ocular clinical trials, which currently use viral gene delivery, but focus primarily on new advancements in optimizing the efficacy of non-viral gene delivery for ocular diseases. Non-viral delivery systems are highly customizable, allowing functionalization to improve cellular and nuclear uptake, bypassing cellular degradative machinery, and improving gene expression in the nucleus. Non-viral vectors often yield transgene expression levels lower than viral counterparts, however their favorable safety/immune profiles and large DNA capacity (critical for the delivery of large ocular disease genes) make their further development a research priority. Recent work on particle coating and vector engineering presents exciting ways to overcome limitations of transient/low gene expression levels, but also highlights the fact that further refinements are needed before use in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahel Zulliger
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204-5060, United States
| | - Shannon M Conley
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, United States
| | - Muna I Naash
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204-5060, United States.
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45
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Wang Y, Rajala A, Rajala RVS. Lipid Nanoparticles for Ocular Gene Delivery. J Funct Biomater 2015; 6:379-94. [PMID: 26062170 PMCID: PMC4493518 DOI: 10.3390/jfb6020379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2015] [Revised: 06/01/2015] [Accepted: 06/02/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Lipids contain hydrocarbons and are the building blocks of cells. Lipids can naturally form themselves into nano-films and nano-structures, micelles, reverse micelles, and liposomes. Micelles or reverse micelles are monolayer structures, whereas liposomes are bilayer structures. Liposomes have been recognized as carriers for drug delivery. Solid lipid nanoparticles and lipoplex (liposome-polycation-DNA complex), also called lipid nanoparticles, are currently used to deliver drugs and genes to ocular tissues. A solid lipid nanoparticle (SLN) is typically spherical, and possesses a solid lipid core matrix that can solubilize lipophilic molecules. The lipid nanoparticle, called the liposome protamine/DNA lipoplex (LPD), is electrostatically assembled from cationic liposomes and an anionic protamine-DNA complex. The LPD nanoparticles contain a highly condensed DNA core surrounded by lipid bilayers. SLNs are extensively used to deliver drugs to the cornea. LPD nanoparticles are used to target the retina. Age-related macular degeneration, retinitis pigmentosa, and diabetic retinopathy are the most common retinal diseases in humans. There have also been promising results achieved recently with LPD nanoparticles to deliver functional genes and micro RNA to treat retinal diseases. Here, we review recent advances in ocular drug and gene delivery employing lipid nanoparticles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhong Wang
- Dean A. McGee Eye Institute, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA.
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City, OK 73014, USA.
| | - Ammaji Rajala
- Dean A. McGee Eye Institute, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA.
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City, OK 73014, USA.
| | - Raju V S Rajala
- Dean A. McGee Eye Institute, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA.
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City, OK 73014, USA.
- Department of Physiology and Harold Hamm Diabetes Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73014, USA.
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Jacobson SG, Cideciyan AV, Aguirre GD, Roman AJ, Sumaroka A, Hauswirth WW, Palczewski K. Improvement in vision: a new goal for treatment of hereditary retinal degenerations. Expert Opin Orphan Drugs 2015; 3:563-575. [PMID: 26246977 PMCID: PMC4487613 DOI: 10.1517/21678707.2015.1030393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Inherited retinal degenerations (IRDs) have long been considered untreatable and incurable. Recently, one form of early-onset autosomal recessive IRD, Leber congenital amaurosis (LCA) caused by mutations in RPE65 (retinal pigment epithelium-specific protein 65 kDa) gene, has responded with some improvement of vision to gene augmentation therapy and oral retinoid administration. This early success now requires refinement of such therapeutics to fully realize the impact of these major scientific and clinical advances. Areas covered: Progress toward human therapy for RPE65-LCA is detailed from the understanding of molecular mechanisms to preclinical proof-of-concept research to clinical trials. Unexpected positive and complicating results in the patients receiving treatment are explained. Logical next steps to advance the clinical value of the therapeutics are suggested. Expert opinion: The first molecularly based early-phase therapies for an IRD are remarkably successful in that vision has improved and adverse events are mainly associated with surgical delivery to the subretinal space. Yet, there are features of the gene augmentation therapeutic response, such as slowed kinetics of night vision, lack of foveal cone function improvement and relentlessly progressive retinal degeneration despite therapy, that still require research attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel G Jacobson
- University of Pennsylvania, Scheie Eye Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology , Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Artur V Cideciyan
- University of Pennsylvania, Scheie Eye Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology , Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Gustavo D Aguirre
- University of Pennsylvania, School of Veterinary Medicine, Section of Ophthalmology , Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Alejandro J Roman
- University of Pennsylvania, Scheie Eye Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology , Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Alexander Sumaroka
- University of Pennsylvania, Scheie Eye Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology , Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | - Krzysztof Palczewski
- Case Western University, School of Medicine, Cleveland Center for Membrane and Structural Biology, Department of Pharmacology , Cleveland, OH, USA
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Han Z, Banworth MJ, Makkia R, Conley SM, Al-Ubaidi MR, Cooper MJ, Naash MI. Genomic DNA nanoparticles rescue rhodopsin-associated retinitis pigmentosa phenotype. FASEB J 2015; 29:2535-44. [PMID: 25713057 DOI: 10.1096/fj.15-270363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2015] [Accepted: 02/09/2015] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Mutations in the rhodopsin gene cause retinal degeneration and clinical phenotypes including retinitis pigmentosa (RP) and congenital stationary night blindness. Effective gene therapies have been difficult to develop, however, because generating precise levels of rhodopsin expression is critical; overexpression causes toxicity, and underexpression would result in incomplete rescue. Current gene delivery strategies routinely use cDNA-based vectors for gene targeting; however, inclusion of noncoding components of genomic DNA (gDNA) such as introns may help promote more endogenous regulation of gene expression. Here we test the hypothesis that inclusion of genomic sequences from the rhodopsin gene can improve the efficacy of rhodopsin gene therapy in the rhodopsin knockout (RKO) mouse model of RP. We utilize our compacted DNA nanoparticles (NPs), which have the ability to transfer larger and more complex genetic constructs, to deliver murine rhodopsin cDNA or gDNA. We show functional and structural improvements in RKO eyes for up to 8 months after NP-mediated gDNA but not cDNA delivery. Importantly, in addition to improvements in rod function, we observe significant preservation of cone function at time points when cones in the RKO model are degenerated. These results suggest that inclusion of native expression elements, such as introns, can significantly enhance gene expression and therapeutic efficacy and may become an essential option in the array of available gene delivery tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zongchao Han
- *Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; and Copernicus Therapeutics, Incorporated, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Marcellus J Banworth
- *Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; and Copernicus Therapeutics, Incorporated, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Rasha Makkia
- *Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; and Copernicus Therapeutics, Incorporated, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Shannon M Conley
- *Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; and Copernicus Therapeutics, Incorporated, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Muayyad R Al-Ubaidi
- *Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; and Copernicus Therapeutics, Incorporated, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Mark J Cooper
- *Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; and Copernicus Therapeutics, Incorporated, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Muna I Naash
- *Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; and Copernicus Therapeutics, Incorporated, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
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Nanoparticle-based technologies for retinal gene therapy. Eur J Pharm Biopharm 2015; 95:353-67. [PMID: 25592325 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2014.12.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2014] [Revised: 12/15/2014] [Accepted: 12/22/2014] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
For patients with hereditary retinal diseases, retinal gene therapy offers significant promise for the prevention of retinal degeneration. While adeno-associated virus (AAV)-based systems remain the most popular gene delivery method due to their high efficiency and successful clinical results, other delivery systems, such as non-viral nanoparticles (NPs) are being developed as additional therapeutic options. NP technologies come in several categories (e.g., polymer, liposomes, peptide compacted DNA), several of which have been tested in mouse models of retinal disease. Here, we discuss the key biochemical features of the different NPs that influence how they are internalized into cells, escape from endosomes, and are delivered into the nucleus. We review the primary mechanism of NP uptake by retinal cells and highlight various NPs that have been successfully used for in vivo gene delivery to the retina and RPE. Finally, we consider the various strategies that can be implemented in the plasmid DNA to generate persistent, high levels of gene expression.
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49
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Treatment of ocular disorders by gene therapy. Eur J Pharm Biopharm 2014; 95:331-42. [PMID: 25536112 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2014.12.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2014] [Revised: 12/08/2014] [Accepted: 12/15/2014] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Gene therapy to treat ocular disorders is still starting, and current therapies are primarily experimental, with most human clinical trials still in research state, although beginning to show encouraging results. Currently 33 clinical trials have been approved, are in progress, or have been completed. The most promising results have been obtained in clinical trials of ocular gene therapy for Leber Congenital Amaurosis, which have prompted the study of several ocular diseases that are good candidates to be treated with gene therapy: glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, retinitis pigmentosa, or choroideremia. The success of gene therapy relies on the efficient delivery of the genetic material to target cells, achieving optimum long-term gene expression. Although viral vectors have been widely used, their potential risk associated mainly with immunogenicity and mutagenesis has promoted the design of non-viral vectors. In this review, the main administration routes and the most studied delivery systems, viral and non-viral, for ocular gene therapy are presented. The primary ocular disease candidates to be treated with gene therapy have been also reviewed, including the genetic basis and the most relevant preclinical and clinical studies.
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50
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Trapani I, Puppo A, Auricchio A. Vector platforms for gene therapy of inherited retinopathies. Prog Retin Eye Res 2014; 43:108-28. [PMID: 25124745 PMCID: PMC4241499 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2014.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2014] [Revised: 07/26/2014] [Accepted: 08/02/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Inherited retinopathies (IR) are common untreatable blinding conditions. Most of them are inherited as monogenic disorders, due to mutations in genes expressed in retinal photoreceptors (PR) and in retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). The retina's compatibility with gene transfer has made transduction of different retinal cell layers in small and large animal models via viral and non-viral vectors possible. The ongoing identification of novel viruses as well as modifications of existing ones based either on rational design or directed evolution have generated vector variants with improved transduction properties. Dozens of promising proofs of concept have been obtained in IR animal models with both viral and non-viral vectors, and some of them have been relayed to clinical trials. To date, recombinant vectors based on the adeno-associated virus (AAV) represent the most promising tool for retinal gene therapy, given their ability to efficiently deliver therapeutic genes to both PR and RPE and their excellent safety and efficacy profiles in humans. However, AAVs' limited cargo capacity has prevented application of the viral vector to treatments requiring transfer of genes with a coding sequence larger than 5 kb. Vectors with larger capacity, i.e. nanoparticles, adenoviral and lentiviral vectors are being exploited for gene transfer to the retina in animal models and, more recently, in humans. This review focuses on the available platforms for retinal gene therapy to fight inherited blindness, highlights their main strengths and examines the efforts to overcome some of their limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivana Trapani
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine (TIGEM), Naples, Italy
| | - Agostina Puppo
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine (TIGEM), Naples, Italy
| | - Alberto Auricchio
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine (TIGEM), Naples, Italy; Medical Genetics, Department of Translational Medicine, Federico II University, Naples, Italy.
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