1
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Merlin JPJ, Abrahamse H. Optimizing CRISPR/Cas9 precision: Mitigating off-target effects for safe integration with photodynamic and stem cell therapies in cancer treatment. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 180:117516. [PMID: 39332185 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.117516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2024] [Revised: 09/22/2024] [Accepted: 09/25/2024] [Indexed: 09/29/2024] Open
Abstract
CRISPR/Cas9 precision genome editing has revolutionized cancer treatment by introducing specific alterations to the cancer genome. But the therapeutic potential of CRISPR/Cas9 is limited by off-target effects, which can cause undesired changes to genomic regions and create major safety concerns. The primary emphasis lies in their implications within the realm of cancer photodynamic therapy (PDT), where precision is paramount. PDT is a promising cancer treatment method; nevertheless, its effectiveness is severely limited and readily leads to recurrence due to the therapeutic resistance of cancer stem cells (CSCs). With a focus on targeted genome editing into cancer cells during PDT and stem cell treatment (SCT), the review aims to further the ongoing search for safer and more accurate CRISPR/Cas9-mediated methods. At the core of this exploration are recent advancements and novel techniques that offer promise in mitigating the risks associated with off-target effects. With a focus on cancer PDT and SCT, this review critically assesses the landscape of off-target effects in CRISPR/Cas9 applications, offering a comprehensive knowledge of their nature and prevalence. A key component of the review is the assessment of cutting-edge delivery methods, such as technologies based on nanoparticles (NPs), to optimize the distribution of CRISPR components. Additionally, the study delves into the intricacies of guide RNA design, focusing on advancements that bolster specificity and minimize off-target effects, crucial elements in ensuring the precision required for effective cancer PDT and SCT. By synthesizing insights from various methodologies, including the exploration of innovative genome editing tools and leveraging robust validation methods and bioinformatics tools, the review aspires to chart a course towards more reliable and precise CRISPR-Cas9 applications in cancer PDT and SCT. For safe PDT and SCT integration in cancer therapy, CRISPR/Cas9 precision optimization is essential. Utilizing sophisticated molecular and computational techniques to address off-target effects is crucial to realizing the therapeutic promise of these technologies, which will ultimately lead to the development of individualized and successful cancer treatment strategies. Our long-term goals are to improve precision genome editing for more potent cancer therapy approaches by refining the way CRISPR/Cas9 is integrated with photodynamic and stem cell therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- J P Jose Merlin
- Laser Research Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Johannesburg, South Africa.
| | - Heidi Abrahamse
- Laser Research Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Johannesburg, South Africa
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2
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Lyu P, Yadav MK, Yoo KW, Jiang C, Li Q, Atala A, Lu B. Gene therapy of Dent disease type 1 in newborn ClC-5 null mice for sustained transgene expression and gene therapy effects. Gene Ther 2024:10.1038/s41434-024-00490-w. [PMID: 39322766 DOI: 10.1038/s41434-024-00490-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2024] [Revised: 09/16/2024] [Accepted: 09/20/2024] [Indexed: 09/27/2024]
Abstract
Dent disease type 1 is caused by changes in the chloride voltage-gated channel 5 (CLCN5) gene on chromosome X, resulting in the lack or dysfunction of chloride channel ClC-5. Individuals affected by Dent disease type 1 show proteinuria and hypercalciuria. Previously we found that lentiviral vector-mediated hCLCN5 cDNA supplementary therapy in ClC-5 null mice was effective only for three months following gene delivery, and the therapeutic effects disappeared four months after treatment, most likely due to immune responses to the ClC-5 proteins expressed in the treated cells. Here we tried two strategies to reduce possible immune responses: 1) confining the expression of ClC-5 expression to the tubular cells with tubule-specific Npt2a and Sglt2 promoters, and 2) performing gene therapy in newborn mutant mice whose immune system has not fully developed. We found that although Npt2a and Sglt2 promoters successfully drove ClC-5 expression in the kidneys of the mutant mice, the treatment did not ameliorate the phenotypes. However, gene delivery to the kidneys of newborn Clcn5 mutant mice enabled long-term transgene expression and phenotype improvement. Our data suggest that performing gene therapy on Dent disease affected subjects soon after birth could be a promising strategy to attenuate immune responses in Dent disease type 1 gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pin Lyu
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Manish Kumar Yadav
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Kyung Whan Yoo
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Cuili Jiang
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Qingqi Li
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Anthony Atala
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Baisong Lu
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA.
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3
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Yin M, Sun H, Li Y, Zhang J, Wang J, Liang Y, Zhang K. Delivery of mRNA Using Biomimetic Vectors: Progress and Challenges. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024:e2402715. [PMID: 39004872 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202402715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2024] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
Messenger RNA (mRNA) is an emerging class of therapeutic agents for treating a wide range of diseases. However, due to the instability and low cell transfection rate of naked mRNA, the expression of delivered mRNA in target cells or tissues in vivo requires delivery strategies. Biomimetic vectors hold advantages such as high biocompatibility, tissue specific targeting ability and efficient delivery mechanisms, potentially overcoming challenges faced by other delivery vectors. In this review, biomimetic vector-based mRNA delivery systems are summarized and discuss the possible challenges and prospects of such delivery systems, which may contribute to the progress and application of mRNA-based therapy in the biomedical field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Menghao Yin
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Hanruo Sun
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Yanan Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Jingge Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Jinjin Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Yan Liang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Kaixiang Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
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4
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Sale JE, Stoddard BL. CRISPR in Nucleic Acids Research: the sequel. Nucleic Acids Res 2024; 52:3489-3492. [PMID: 38532709 PMCID: PMC11040143 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkae159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Julian E Sale
- MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Francis Crick Avenue, Cambridge CB2 0QH, UK
| | - Barry L Stoddard
- Division of Basic Sciences, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, 1100 Fairview Ave. N., Seattle, WA 98109, USA
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5
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Smekalova EM, Martinez MG, Combe E, Kumar A, Dejene S, Leboeuf D, Chen CY, Dorkin JR, Shuang LS, Kieft S, Young L, Barrera LA, Packer MS, Ciaramella G, Testoni B, Gregoire F, Zoulim F. Cytosine base editing inhibits hepatitis B virus replication and reduces HBsAg expression in vitro and in vivo. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2024; 35:102112. [PMID: 38292874 PMCID: PMC10825689 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2023.102112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection remains a global health problem due to the lack of treatments that prevent viral rebound from HBV covalently closed circular (ccc)DNA. In addition, HBV DNA integrates in the human genome, serving as a source of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) expression, which impairs anti-HBV immune responses. Cytosine base editors (CBEs) enable precise conversion of a cytosine into a thymine within DNA. In this study, CBEs were used to introduce stop codons in HBV genes, HBs and Precore. Transfection with mRNA encoding a CBE and a combination of two guide RNAs led to robust cccDNA editing and sustained reduction of the viral markers in HBV-infected HepG2-NTCP cells and primary human hepatocytes. Furthermore, base editing efficiently reduced HBsAg expression from HBV sequences integrated within the genome of the PLC/PRF/5 and HepG2.2.15 cell lines. Finally, in the HBV minicircle mouse model, using lipid nanoparticulate delivery, we demonstrated antiviral efficacy of the base editing approach with a >3log10 reduction in serum HBV DNA and >2log10 reduction in HBsAg, and 4/5 mice showing HBsAg loss. Combined, these data indicate that base editing can introduce mutations in both cccDNA and integrated HBV DNA, abrogating HBV replication and silencing viral protein expression.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maria G. Martinez
- INSERM U1052, Cancer Research Center of Lyon, CNRS UMR 5286, 69008 Lyon, France
- University of Lyon, UMR_S1052, UCBL, 69008 Lyon, France
- Hepatology Institute of Lyon, 69008 Lyon, France
| | - Emmanuel Combe
- INSERM U1052, Cancer Research Center of Lyon, CNRS UMR 5286, 69008 Lyon, France
- University of Lyon, UMR_S1052, UCBL, 69008 Lyon, France
- Hepatology Institute of Lyon, 69008 Lyon, France
| | - Anuj Kumar
- INSERM U1052, Cancer Research Center of Lyon, CNRS UMR 5286, 69008 Lyon, France
- University of Lyon, UMR_S1052, UCBL, 69008 Lyon, France
- Hepatology Institute of Lyon, 69008 Lyon, France
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Barbara Testoni
- INSERM U1052, Cancer Research Center of Lyon, CNRS UMR 5286, 69008 Lyon, France
- University of Lyon, UMR_S1052, UCBL, 69008 Lyon, France
- Hepatology Institute of Lyon, 69008 Lyon, France
| | | | - Fabien Zoulim
- INSERM U1052, Cancer Research Center of Lyon, CNRS UMR 5286, 69008 Lyon, France
- University of Lyon, UMR_S1052, UCBL, 69008 Lyon, France
- Hepatology Institute of Lyon, 69008 Lyon, France
- Hepatology Department, Hospices Civils de Lyon (HCL), 69004 Lyon, France
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6
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Tsuchida CA, Wasko KM, Hamilton JR, Doudna JA. Targeted nonviral delivery of genome editors in vivo. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2307796121. [PMID: 38437567 PMCID: PMC10945750 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2307796121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Cell-type-specific in vivo delivery of genome editing molecules is the next breakthrough that will drive biological discovery and transform the field of cell and gene therapy. Here, we discuss recent advances in the delivery of CRISPR-Cas genome editors either as preassembled ribonucleoproteins or encoded in mRNA. Both strategies avoid pitfalls of viral vector-mediated delivery and offer advantages including transient editor lifetime and potentially streamlined manufacturing capability that are already proving valuable for clinical use. We review current applications and future opportunities of these emerging delivery approaches that could make genome editing more efficacious and accessible in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Connor A. Tsuchida
- University of California, Berkeley—University of California, San Francisco Graduate Program in Bioengineering, University of California, Berkeley, CA94720
- Innovative Genomics Institute, University of California, Berkeley, CA94720
| | - Kevin M. Wasko
- Innovative Genomics Institute, University of California, Berkeley, CA94720
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA94720
| | - Jennifer R. Hamilton
- Innovative Genomics Institute, University of California, Berkeley, CA94720
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA94720
| | - Jennifer A. Doudna
- University of California, Berkeley—University of California, San Francisco Graduate Program in Bioengineering, University of California, Berkeley, CA94720
- Innovative Genomics Institute, University of California, Berkeley, CA94720
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA94720
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley, CA94720
- California Institute for Quantitative Biosciences, University of California, Berkeley, CA94720
- Molecular Biophysics and Integrated Bioimaging Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA94720
- Gladstone Institutes, University of California,San Francisco, CA94158
- HHMI, University of California, Berkeley, CA94720
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7
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Eweje F, Walsh ML, Ahmad K, Ibrahim V, Alrefai A, Chen J, Chaikof EL. Protein-based nanoparticles for therapeutic nucleic acid delivery. Biomaterials 2024; 305:122464. [PMID: 38181574 PMCID: PMC10872380 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2023.122464] [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: 09/23/2023] [Revised: 12/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/31/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024]
Abstract
To realize the full potential of emerging nucleic acid therapies, there is a need for effective delivery agents to transport cargo to cells of interest. Protein materials exhibit several unique properties, including biodegradability, biocompatibility, ease of functionalization via recombinant and chemical modifications, among other features, which establish a promising basis for therapeutic nucleic acid delivery systems. In this review, we highlight progress made in the use of non-viral protein-based nanoparticles for nucleic acid delivery in vitro and in vivo, while elaborating on key physicochemical properties that have enabled the use of these materials for nanoparticle formulation and drug delivery. To conclude, we comment on the prospects and unresolved challenges associated with the translation of protein-based nucleic acid delivery systems for therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feyisayo Eweje
- Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215, USA; Harvard and MIT Division of Health Sciences and Technology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA; Harvard/MIT MD-PhD Program, Boston, MA, USA, 02115; Wyss Institute of Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Michelle L Walsh
- Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215, USA; Harvard and MIT Division of Health Sciences and Technology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA; Harvard/MIT MD-PhD Program, Boston, MA, USA, 02115
| | - Kiran Ahmad
- Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Vanessa Ibrahim
- Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Assma Alrefai
- Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Jiaxuan Chen
- Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215, USA; Wyss Institute of Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
| | - Elliot L Chaikof
- Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215, USA; Wyss Institute of Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
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8
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Unti MJ, Jaffrey SR. Highly efficient cellular expression of circular mRNA enables prolonged protein expression. Cell Chem Biol 2024; 31:163-176.e5. [PMID: 37883972 PMCID: PMC10841545 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2023.09.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
A major problem with mRNA therapeutics is that mRNA is usually degraded within a few hours after entering the cytosol. New approaches for in vitro synthesis of circular mRNA have allowed increased levels and duration of protein synthesis from mRNA therapeutics due to the long half-life of circular mRNA. However, it remains difficult to genetically encode circular mRNAs in mammalian cells. Here, we describe the adaptation of the Tornado (Twister-optimized RNA for durable overexpression) system to achieve in-cell synthesis of circular mRNAs. We screen different promoters and internal ribosomal entry sites (IRESs) and identify combinations that result in high levels of circular mRNA and protein expression. We show that these circular mRNAs can be packaged into virus-like particles (VLPs), thus enabling prolonged protein expression. Overall, these data describe a platform for synthesis of circular mRNAs and how these circular mRNAs can improve VLP therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mildred J Unti
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Samie R Jaffrey
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY 10065, USA.
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9
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Gupta R, Arora K, Mehrotra Arora N, Kundu P. Significance of VLPs in Vlp-circRNA vaccines: a vaccine candidate or delivery vehicle? RNA Biol 2024; 21:17-28. [PMID: 39240021 PMCID: PMC11382717 DOI: 10.1080/15476286.2024.2399307] [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] [Revised: 08/19/2024] [Accepted: 08/26/2024] [Indexed: 09/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a class of single-stranded RNAs with a closed loop lacking 5' and 3' ends. These circRNAs are translatable and, therefore, have a potential in developing vaccine. CircRNA vaccines have been shown to be more stable, safe, easy to manufacture and scale-up production when compared to mRNA vaccines. However, these vaccines also suffer from several drawbacks such as low circularization efficiency for longer RNA precursor and usage of lipid nano particles (LNPs) in their delivery. LNPs have been shown to require large amounts of RNA due to their indirect delivery from endosome to cytosol. Besides, individual components of LNPs provide reactogenicity. Usage of virus like particles (VLPs) can improve the increased production and targeted delivery of circRNA vaccines and show no reactogenicity. Moreover, VLPs has also been used to produce vaccines against several diseases such as hepatitis C virus (HCV) etc. In this article, we will discuss about the methods used to enhance synthesis or circularization efficiency of circRNA. Moreover, we will also discuss about the significance of VLPs as the delivery vehicle for circRNA and their possible usage as the dual vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reeshu Gupta
- Department of Research and Development, Premas Biotech Pvt Ltd., Industrial Model Township (IMT), Gurugram, India
- Research and Development Cell, Parul University, Vadodara, Gujarat, India
| | - Kajal Arora
- Department of Research and Development, Premas Biotech Pvt Ltd., Industrial Model Township (IMT), Gurugram, India
| | - Nupur Mehrotra Arora
- Department of Research and Development, Premas Biotech Pvt Ltd., Industrial Model Township (IMT), Gurugram, India
| | - Prabuddha Kundu
- Department of Research and Development, Premas Biotech Pvt Ltd., Industrial Model Township (IMT), Gurugram, India
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10
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Chen YL, Bao CJ, Duan JL, Xie Y, Lu WL. Overcoming biological barriers by virus-like drug particles for drug delivery. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2023; 203:115134. [PMID: 37926218 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2023.115134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Virus-like particles (VLPs) have natural structural antigens similar to those found in viruses, making them valuable in vaccine immunization. Furthermore, VLPs have demonstrated significant potential in drug delivery, and emerged as promising vectors for transporting chemical drug, genetic drug, peptide/protein, and even nanoparticle drug. With virus-like permeability and strong retention, they can effectively target specific organs, tissues or cells, facilitating efficient intracellular drug release. Further modifications allow VLPs to transfer across various physiological barriers, thus acting the purpose of efficient drug delivery and accurate therapy. This article provides an overview of VLPs, covering their structural classifications, deliverable drugs, potential physiological barriers in drug delivery, strategies for overcoming these barriers, and future prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Ling Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Beijing Key Laboratory of Molecular Pharmaceutics and Drug Delivery Systems, and School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Chun-Jie Bao
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Beijing Key Laboratory of Molecular Pharmaceutics and Drug Delivery Systems, and School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China; School of Medicine & Holistic Integrative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China; Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Jia-Lun Duan
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Beijing Key Laboratory of Molecular Pharmaceutics and Drug Delivery Systems, and School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China; Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Ying Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Beijing Key Laboratory of Molecular Pharmaceutics and Drug Delivery Systems, and School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China.
| | - Wan-Liang Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Beijing Key Laboratory of Molecular Pharmaceutics and Drug Delivery Systems, and School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China.
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11
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Zhu H, Luo H, Chang R, Yang Y, Liu D, Ji Y, Qin H, Rong H, Yin J. Protein-based delivery systems for RNA delivery. J Control Release 2023; 363:253-274. [PMID: 37741460 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2023.09.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/25/2023]
Abstract
RNA-based therapeutics have emerged as promising approaches to modulate gene expression and generate therapeutic proteins or antigens capable of inducing immune responses to treat a variety of diseases, such as infectious diseases, cancers, immunologic disorders, and genetic disorders. However, the efficient delivery of RNA molecules into cells poses significant challenges due to their large molecular weight, negative charge, and susceptibility to degradation by RNase enzymes. To overcome these obstacles, viral and non-viral vectors have been developed, including lipid nanoparticles, viral vectors, proteins, dendritic macromolecules, among others. Among these carriers, protein-based delivery systems have garnered considerable attention due to their potential to address specific issues associated with nanoparticle-based systems, such as liver accumulation and immunogenicity. This review provides an overview of currently marketed RNA drugs, underscores the significance of RNA delivery vector development, delineates the essential characteristics of an ideal RNA delivery vector, and introduces existing protein carriers for RNA delivery. By offering valuable insights, this review aims to serve as a reference for the future development of protein-based delivery vectors for RNA therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haichao Zhu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Hong Luo
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Ruilong Chang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yifan Yang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Dingkang Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yue Ji
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Hai Qin
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Beijing Jishuitan Hospital Guizhou Hospital, No. 206, Sixian Street, Baiyun District, Guiyang City 550014, Guizhou Province, China.
| | - Haibo Rong
- Jiangsu Cancer Hospital & Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research & The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210009, China.
| | - Jun Yin
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China.
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12
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Preta G. Development of New Genome Editing Tools for the Treatment of Hyperlipidemia. Cells 2023; 12:2466. [PMID: 37887310 PMCID: PMC10605581 DOI: 10.3390/cells12202466] [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: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Hyperlipidemia is a medical condition characterized by high levels of lipids in the blood. It is often associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks and strokes. Traditional treatment approaches for hyperlipidemia involve lifestyle modifications, dietary changes, and the use of medications like statins. Recent advancements in genome editing technologies, including CRISPR-Cas9, have opened up new possibilities for the treatment of this condition. This review provides a general overview of the main target genes involved in lipid metabolism and highlights the progress made during recent years towards the development of new treatments for dyslipidemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulio Preta
- VU LSC-EMBL Partnership Institute for Genome Editing Technologies, Life Sciences Center, Vilnius University, LT-10257 Vilnius, Lithuania;
- Institute of Biochemistry, Life Science Center, Vilnius University, LT-10257 Vilnius, Lithuania
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13
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Sun B, Wu W, Narasipura EA, Ma Y, Yu C, Fenton OS, Song H. Engineering nanoparticle toolkits for mRNA delivery. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2023; 200:115042. [PMID: 37536506 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2023.115042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
The concept of using mRNA to produce its own medicine in situ in the body makes it an ideal drug candidate, holding great potential to revolutionize the way we approach medicine. The unique characteristics of mRNA, as well as its customizable biomedical functions, call for the rational design of delivery systems to protect and transport mRNA molecules. In this review, a nanoparticle toolkit is presented for the development of mRNA-based therapeutics from a drug delivery perspective. Nano-delivery systems derived from either natural systems or chemical synthesis, in the nature of organic or inorganic materials, are summarised. Delivery strategies in controlling the tissue targeting and mRNA release, as well as the role of nanoparticles in building and boosting the activity of mRNA drugs, have also been introduced. In the end, our insights into the clinical and translational development of mRNA nano-drugs are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing Sun
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, the University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Weixi Wu
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, the University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Eshan A Narasipura
- Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Yutian Ma
- Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Chengzhong Yu
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, the University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Owen S Fenton
- Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.
| | - Hao Song
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, the University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia.
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14
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Lin Q, Zhu J, Hu Y. Involvement of lncRNAs in the tumor microenvironment: a new property of tumor immunity. Cancer Biol Med 2023; 20:j.issn.2095-3941.2023.0163. [PMID: 37646231 PMCID: PMC10476471 DOI: 10.20892/j.issn.2095-3941.2023.0163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Qingyu Lin
- School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150001, China
- Zhengzhou Research Institute of Harbin Institute of Technology, Zhengzhou 450000, China
- Key Laboratory of Science and Engineering for the Multi-modal Prevention and Control of Major Chronic Diseases, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, Zhengzhou 450000, China
| | - Jiaqi Zhu
- Zhengzhou Research Institute of Harbin Institute of Technology, Zhengzhou 450000, China
- School of Astronautics, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150001, China
| | - Ying Hu
- School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150001, China
- Zhengzhou Research Institute of Harbin Institute of Technology, Zhengzhou 450000, China
- Key Laboratory of Science and Engineering for the Multi-modal Prevention and Control of Major Chronic Diseases, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, Zhengzhou 450000, China
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15
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Horns F, Martinez JA, Fan C, Haque M, Linton JM, Tobin V, Santat L, Maggiolo AO, Bjorkman PJ, Lois C, Elowitz MB. Engineering RNA export for measurement and manipulation of living cells. Cell 2023; 186:3642-3658.e32. [PMID: 37437570 PMCID: PMC10528933 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2023.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
A system for programmable export of RNA molecules from living cells would enable both non-destructive monitoring of cell dynamics and engineering of cells capable of delivering executable RNA programs to other cells. We developed genetically encoded cellular RNA exporters, inspired by viruses, that efficiently package and secrete cargo RNA molecules from mammalian cells within protective nanoparticles. Exporting and sequencing RNA barcodes enabled non-destructive monitoring of cell population dynamics with clonal resolution. Further, by incorporating fusogens into the nanoparticles, we demonstrated the delivery, expression, and functional activity of exported mRNA in recipient cells. We term these systems COURIER (controlled output and uptake of RNA for interrogation, expression, and regulation). COURIER enables measurement of cell dynamics and establishes a foundation for hybrid cell and gene therapies based on cell-to-cell delivery of RNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix Horns
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA.
| | - Joe A Martinez
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Chengcheng Fan
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Mehernaz Haque
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - James M Linton
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Victoria Tobin
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Leah Santat
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Ailiena O Maggiolo
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Pamela J Bjorkman
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Carlos Lois
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Michael B Elowitz
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA.
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16
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Unti MJ, Jaffrey SR. Highly efficient cellular expression of circular mRNA enables prolonged protein expression. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.07.11.548538. [PMID: 37503010 PMCID: PMC10369907 DOI: 10.1101/2023.07.11.548538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
A major problem with mRNA therapeutics is the limited duration of protein expression due to the short half-life of mRNA. New approaches for generating highly stable circular mRNA in vitro have allowed increased duration of protein expression. However, it remains difficult to genetically encode circular mRNAs in mammalian cells, which limits the use of circular mRNA in cell-derived therapeutics. Here we describe the adaptation of the Tornado (Twister-optimized RNA for durable overexpression) system to achieve in-cell synthesis of circular mRNAs. We identify the promoter and internal ribosomal entry site (IRES) that result in high levels of protein expression in cells. We then show that these circular mRNAs can be packaged into virus-like particles (VLPs) thus enabling prolonged protein expression. Overall, these data describe a platform for synthesis of circular mRNAs and how these circular mRNAs can markedly enhance the ability of VLPs to function as a mRNA delivery tool.
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Tan JS, Jaffar Ali MNB, Gan BK, Tan WS. Next-generation viral nanoparticles for targeted delivery of therapeutics: Fundamentals, methods, biomedical applications, and challenges. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2023; 20:955-978. [PMID: 37339432 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2023.2228202] [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: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Viral nanoparticles (VNPs) are virus-based nanocarriers that have been studied extensively and intensively for biomedical applications. However, their clinical translation is relatively low compared to the predominating lipid-based nanoparticles. Therefore, this article describes the fundamentals, challenges, and solutions of the VNP-based platform, which will leverage the development of next-generation VNPs. AREAS COVERED Different types of VNPs and their biomedical applications are reviewed comprehensively. Strategies and approaches for cargo loading and targeted delivery of VNPs are examined thoroughly. The latest developments in controlled release of cargoes from VNPs and their mechanisms are highlighted too. The challenges faced by VNPs in biomedical applications are identified, and solutions are provided to overcome them. EXPERT OPINION In the development of next-generation VNPs for gene therapy, bioimaging and therapeutic deliveries, focus must be given to reduce their immunogenicity, and increase their stability in the circulatory system. Modular virus-like particles (VLPs) which are produced separately from their cargoes or ligands before all the components are coupled can speed up clinical trials and commercialization. In addition, removal of contaminants from VNPs, cargo delivery across the blood brain barrier (BBB), and targeting of VNPs to organelles intracellularly are challenges that will preoccupy researchers in this decade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Sen Tan
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Muhamad Norizwan Bin Jaffar Ali
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Bee Koon Gan
- Department of Biological Science, Faculty of Science, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Wen Siang Tan
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
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18
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Lučanský V, Holubeková V, Kolková Z, Halašová E, Samec M, Golubnitschaja O. Multi-faceted CRISPR/Cas technological innovation aspects in the framework of 3P medicine. EPMA J 2023; 14:201-217. [PMID: 37275547 PMCID: PMC10201107 DOI: 10.1007/s13167-023-00324-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Since 2009, the European Association for Predictive, Preventive and Personalised Medicine (EPMA, Brussels) promotes the paradigm change from reactive approach to predictive, preventive, and personalized medicine (PPPM/3PM) to protect individuals in sub-optimal health conditions from the health-to-disease transition, to increase life-quality of the affected patient cohorts improving, therefore, ethical standards and cost-efficacy of healthcare to great benefits of the society at large. The gene-editing technology utilizing CRISPR/Cas gene-editing approach has demonstrated its enormous value as a powerful tool in a broad spectrum of bio/medical research areas. Further, CRISPR/Cas gene-editing system is considered applicable to primary and secondary healthcare, in order to prevent disease spread and to treat clinically manifested disorders, involving diagnostics of SARS-Cov-2 infection and experimental treatment of COVID-19. Although the principle of the proposed gene editing is simple and elegant, there are a lot of technological challenges and ethical considerations to be solved prior to its broadly scaled clinical implementation. This article highlights technological innovation beyond the state of the art, exemplifies current achievements, discusses unsolved technological and ethical problems, and provides clinically relevant outlook in the framework of 3PM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Lučanský
- Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin (JFMED CU), Biomedical Center, Comenius University in Bratislava, Martin, Slovakia
| | - Veronika Holubeková
- Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin (JFMED CU), Biomedical Center, Comenius University in Bratislava, Martin, Slovakia
| | - Zuzana Kolková
- Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin (JFMED CU), Biomedical Center, Comenius University in Bratislava, Martin, Slovakia
| | - Erika Halašová
- Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin (JFMED CU), Biomedical Center, Comenius University in Bratislava, Martin, Slovakia
| | - Marek Samec
- Department of Pathophysiology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Martin, Slovakia
| | - Olga Golubnitschaja
- Predictive, Preventive, Personalised (3P) Medicine, Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Bonn, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universität Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany
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19
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Teng ACT, Tavassoli M, Shrestha S, Marks RM, McFadden MJ, Evagelou SL, Lindsay K, Vandenbelt A, Li W, Ivakine E, Cohn R, Santerre JP, Gramolini AO. An efficient and cost-effective purification protocol for Staphylococcus aureus Cas9 nuclease. STAR Protoc 2023; 4:101933. [PMID: 36574341 PMCID: PMC9813775 DOI: 10.1016/j.xpro.2022.101933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Here, we describe a protocol for purifying functional clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-associated protein 9 (Cas9) from Staphylococcus aureus within 24 h and over 90% purity. SaCas9 purification begins with immobilized metal affinity chromatography, followed by cation exchange chromatography, and ended with centrifugal concentrators. The simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and reproducibility of such protocols will enable general labs to produce a sizable amount of Cas9 proteins, further accelerating CRISPR research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allen C T Teng
- Translational Biology and Engineering Program, Ted Rogers Centre for Heart Research, University of Toronto, 661 University Avenue, 14th Floor, Toronto, ON M5G 1M1, Canada; Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada.
| | - Marjan Tavassoli
- Translational Biology and Engineering Program, Ted Rogers Centre for Heart Research, University of Toronto, 661 University Avenue, 14th Floor, Toronto, ON M5G 1M1, Canada; Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Suja Shrestha
- Translational Biology and Engineering Program, Ted Rogers Centre for Heart Research, University of Toronto, 661 University Avenue, 14th Floor, Toronto, ON M5G 1M1, Canada; Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1X3, Canada
| | - Ryan M Marks
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada; Program in Genetics and Genome Biology, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 1X8, Canada
| | - Meghan J McFadden
- Translational Biology and Engineering Program, Ted Rogers Centre for Heart Research, University of Toronto, 661 University Avenue, 14th Floor, Toronto, ON M5G 1M1, Canada; Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3G9, Canada
| | - Sonia L Evagelou
- Program in Genetics and Genome Biology, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 1X8, Canada
| | - Kyle Lindsay
- Program in Genetics and Genome Biology, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 1X8, Canada
| | - Ava Vandenbelt
- Translational Biology and Engineering Program, Ted Rogers Centre for Heart Research, University of Toronto, 661 University Avenue, 14th Floor, Toronto, ON M5G 1M1, Canada; Faculty of Kinesiology & Physical Education, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 2W6, Canada
| | - Wenping Li
- Translational Biology and Engineering Program, Ted Rogers Centre for Heart Research, University of Toronto, 661 University Avenue, 14th Floor, Toronto, ON M5G 1M1, Canada; Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Evgueni Ivakine
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada; Program in Genetics and Genome Biology, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 1X8, Canada
| | - Ronald Cohn
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada; Program in Genetics and Genome Biology, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 1X8, Canada
| | - J Paul Santerre
- Translational Biology and Engineering Program, Ted Rogers Centre for Heart Research, University of Toronto, 661 University Avenue, 14th Floor, Toronto, ON M5G 1M1, Canada; Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1X3, Canada; Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3G9, Canada
| | - Anthony O Gramolini
- Translational Biology and Engineering Program, Ted Rogers Centre for Heart Research, University of Toronto, 661 University Avenue, 14th Floor, Toronto, ON M5G 1M1, Canada; Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada.
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20
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Guo C, Ma X, Gao F, Guo Y. Off-target effects in CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1143157. [PMID: 36970624 PMCID: PMC10034092 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1143157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 76.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Gene editing stands for the methods to precisely make changes to a specific nucleic acid sequence. With the recent development of the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/Cas9 system, gene editing has become efficient, convenient and programmable, leading to promising translational studies and clinical trials for both genetic and non-genetic diseases. A major concern in the applications of the CRISPR/Cas9 system is about its off-target effects, namely the deposition of unexpected, unwanted, or even adverse alterations to the genome. To date, many methods have been developed to nominate or detect the off-target sites of CRISPR/Cas9, which laid the basis for the successful upgrades of CRISPR/Cas9 derivatives with enhanced precision. In this review, we summarize these technological advancements and discuss about the current challenges in the management of off-target effects for future gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Congting Guo
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
- Peking University Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoteng Ma
- Department of Cardiology, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Fei Gao
- Department of Cardiology, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Fei Gao, ; Yuxuan Guo,
| | - Yuxuan Guo
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
- Peking University Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, Beijing, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Molecular Cardiovascular Science, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Receptors Research, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Fei Gao, ; Yuxuan Guo,
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21
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Mazurov D, Ramadan L, Kruglova N. Packaging and Uncoating of CRISPR/Cas Ribonucleoproteins for Efficient Gene Editing with Viral and Non-Viral Extracellular Nanoparticles. Viruses 2023; 15:v15030690. [PMID: 36992399 PMCID: PMC10056905 DOI: 10.3390/v15030690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Rapid progress in gene editing based on clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats/CRISPR-associated protein (CRISPR/Cas) has revolutionized functional genomic studies and genetic disease correction. While numerous gene editing applications have been easily adapted by experimental science, the clinical utility of CRISPR/Cas remains very limited due to difficulty in delivery to primary cells and possible off-target effects. The use of CRISPR in the form of a ribonucleoprotein (RNP) complex substantially reduces the time of DNA exposure to the effector nuclease and minimizes its off-target activity. The traditional electroporation and lipofection methods lack the cell-type specificity of RNP delivery, can be toxic for cells, and are less efficient when compared to nanoparticle transporters. This review focuses on CRISPR/Cas RNP packaging and delivery using retro/lentiviral particles and exosomes. First, we briefly describe the natural stages of viral and exosomal particle formation, release and entry into the target cells. This helps us understand the mechanisms of CRISPR/Cas RNP packaging and uncoating utilized by the current delivery systems, which we discuss afterward. Much attention is given to the exosomes released during viral particle production that can be passively loaded with RNPs as well as the mechanisms necessary for particle fusion, RNP release, and transportation inside the target cells. Collectively, together with specific packaging mechanisms, all these factors can substantially influence the editing efficiency of the system. Finally, we discuss ways to improve CRISPR/Cas RNP delivery using extracellular nanoparticles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dmitriy Mazurov
- Cell and Gene Technology Group, Center for Precision Genome Editing and Genetic Technologies for Biomedicine, Institute of Gene Biology RAS, 119334 Moscow, Russia
- Correspondence: or
| | - Lama Ramadan
- Phystech School of Biological and Medical Physics, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, 141701 Moscow, Russia
| | - Natalia Kruglova
- Cell and Gene Technology Group, Center for Precision Genome Editing and Genetic Technologies for Biomedicine, Institute of Gene Biology RAS, 119334 Moscow, Russia
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22
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Buffa V, Alvarez Vargas JR, Galy A, Spinozzi S, Rocca CJ. Hematopoietic stem and progenitors cells gene editing: Beyond blood disorders. Front Genome Ed 2023; 4:997142. [PMID: 36698790 PMCID: PMC9868335 DOI: 10.3389/fgeed.2022.997142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Lessons learned from decades-long practice in the transplantation of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) to treat severe inherited disorders or cancer, have set the stage for the current ex vivo gene therapies using autologous gene-modified hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells that have treated so far, hundreds of patients with monogenic disorders. With increased knowledge of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell biology, improved modalities for patient conditioning and with the emergence of new gene editing technologies, a new era of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell-based gene therapies is poised to emerge. Gene editing has the potential to restore physiological expression of a mutated gene, or to insert a functional gene in a precise locus with reduced off-target activity and toxicity. Advances in patient conditioning has reduced treatment toxicities and may improve the engraftment of gene-modified cells and specific progeny. Thanks to these improvements, new potential treatments of various blood- or immune disorders as well as other inherited diseases will continue to emerge. In the present review, the most recent advances in hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell gene editing will be reported, with a focus on how this approach could be a promising solution to treat non-blood-related inherited disorders and the mechanisms behind the therapeutic actions discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Buffa
- Genethon, Evry, France,Integrare Research Unit UMR_S951, Université Paris-Saclay, University Evry, Inserm, Genethon, Evry, France
| | - José Roberto Alvarez Vargas
- Genethon, Evry, France,Integrare Research Unit UMR_S951, Université Paris-Saclay, University Evry, Inserm, Genethon, Evry, France
| | - Anne Galy
- Genethon, Evry, France,Integrare Research Unit UMR_S951, Université Paris-Saclay, University Evry, Inserm, Genethon, Evry, France
| | - Simone Spinozzi
- Genethon, Evry, France,Integrare Research Unit UMR_S951, Université Paris-Saclay, University Evry, Inserm, Genethon, Evry, France
| | - Céline J. Rocca
- Genethon, Evry, France,Integrare Research Unit UMR_S951, Université Paris-Saclay, University Evry, Inserm, Genethon, Evry, France,*Correspondence: Céline J. Rocca,
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23
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Wienert B, Cromer MK. CRISPR nuclease off-target activity and mitigation strategies. Front Genome Ed 2022; 4:1050507. [PMID: 36439866 PMCID: PMC9685173 DOI: 10.3389/fgeed.2022.1050507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The discovery of CRISPR has allowed site-specific genomic modification to become a reality and this technology is now being applied in a number of human clinical trials. While this technology has demonstrated impressive efficacy in the clinic to date, there remains the potential for unintended on- and off-target effects of CRISPR nuclease activity. A variety of in silico-based prediction tools and empirically derived experimental methods have been developed to identify the most common unintended effect-small insertions and deletions at genomic sites with homology to the guide RNA. However, large-scale aberrations have recently been reported such as translocations, inversions, deletions, and even chromothripsis. These are more difficult to detect using current workflows indicating a major unmet need in the field. In this review we summarize potential sequencing-based solutions that may be able to detect these large-scale effects even at low frequencies of occurrence. In addition, many of the current clinical trials using CRISPR involve ex vivo isolation of a patient's own stem cells, modification, and re-transplantation. However, there is growing interest in direct, in vivo delivery of genome editing tools. While this strategy has the potential to address disease in cell types that are not amenable to ex vivo manipulation, in vivo editing has only one desired outcome-on-target editing in the cell type of interest. CRISPR activity in unintended cell types (both on- and off-target) is therefore a major safety as well as ethical concern in tissues that could enable germline transmission. In this review, we have summarized the strengths and weaknesses of current editing and delivery tools and potential improvements to off-target and off-tissue CRISPR activity detection. We have also outlined potential mitigation strategies that will ensure that the safety of CRISPR keeps pace with efficacy, a necessary requirement if this technology is to realize its full translational potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beeke Wienert
- Graphite Bio, Inc., South San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - M. Kyle Cromer
- Department of Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center for Regeneration Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
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24
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Virus-Like Particles as Nanocarriers for Intracellular Delivery of Biomolecules and Compounds. Viruses 2022; 14:v14091905. [PMID: 36146711 PMCID: PMC9503347 DOI: 10.3390/v14091905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Virus-like particles (VLPs) are nanostructures assemble from viral proteins. Besides widely used for vaccine development, VLPs have also been explored as nanocarriers for cargo delivery as they combine the key advantages of viral and non-viral vectors. While it protects cargo molecules from degradation, the VLP has good cell penetrating property to mediate cargo passing the cell membrane and released into cells, making the VLP an ideal tool for intracellular delivery of biomolecules and drugs. Great progresses have been achieved and multiple challenges are still on the way for broad applications of VLP as delivery vectors. Here we summarize current advances and applications in VLP as a delivery vector. Progresses on delivery of different types of biomolecules as well as drugs by VLPs are introduced, and the strategies for cargo packaging are highlighted which is one of the key steps for VLP mediated intracellular delivery. Production and applications of VLPs are also briefly reviewed, with a discussion on future challenges in this rapidly developing field.
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25
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Lyu P, Lu B. New Advances in Using Virus-like Particles and Related Technologies for Eukaryotic Genome Editing Delivery. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23158750. [PMID: 35955895 PMCID: PMC9369418 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23158750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The designer nucleases, including Zinc Finger Nuclease (ZFN), Transcription Activator-Like Effector Nuclease (TALEN), and Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats/CRISPR-associated (CRISPR/Cas), have been widely used for mechanistic studies, animal model generation, and gene therapy development. Clinical trials using designer nucleases to treat genetic diseases or cancers are showing promising results. Despite rapid progress, potential off-targets and host immune responses are challenges to be addressed for in vivo uses, especially in clinical applications. Short-term expression of the designer nucleases is necessary to reduce both risks. Currently, delivery methods enabling transient expression of designer nucleases are being pursued. Among these, virus-like particles as delivery vehicles for short-term designer nuclease expression have received much attention. This review will summarize recent developments in using virus-like particles (VLPs) for safe delivery of gene editing effectors to complement our last review on the same topic. First, we introduce some background information on how VLPs can be used for safe and efficient CRISPR/Cas9 delivery. Then, we summarize recently developed virus-like particles as genome editing vehicles. Finally, we discuss applications and future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pin Lyu
- School of Physical Education, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 311121, China
| | - Baisong Lu
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-336-713-7276; Fax: +1-336-713-7290
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Raguram A, Banskota S, Liu DR. Therapeutic in vivo delivery of gene editing agents. Cell 2022; 185:2806-2827. [PMID: 35798006 PMCID: PMC9454337 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2022.03.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 163] [Impact Index Per Article: 81.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 03/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
In vivo gene editing therapies offer the potential to treat the root causes of many genetic diseases. Realizing the promise of therapeutic in vivo gene editing requires the ability to safely and efficiently deliver gene editing agents to relevant organs and tissues in vivo. Here, we review current delivery technologies that have been used to enable therapeutic in vivo gene editing, including viral vectors, lipid nanoparticles, and virus-like particles. Since no single delivery modality is likely to be appropriate for every possible application, we compare the benefits and drawbacks of each method and highlight opportunities for future improvements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aditya Raguram
- Merkin Institute of Transformative Technologies in Healthcare, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Samagya Banskota
- Merkin Institute of Transformative Technologies in Healthcare, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - David R Liu
- Merkin Institute of Transformative Technologies in Healthcare, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA.
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Yadav M, Atala A, Lu B. Developing all-in-one virus-like particles for Cas9 mRNA/single guide RNA co-delivery and aptamer-containing lentiviral vectors for improved gene expression. Int J Biol Macromol 2022; 209:1260-1270. [PMID: 35461863 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2022.04.114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Lentiviral vectors (LVs) are widely used for delivering foreign genes for long-term expression. Recently, virus-like particles (VLPs) were developed for mRNA or ribonucleoprotein (RNP) delivery for short-term endonuclease expression. Generating large amount of LVs or VLPs is challenging. On the other hand, methods for using VLPs to co-deliver Cas9 mRNA and single guide RNA (sgRNA) are limited. Fusing aptamer-binding protein (ABP) to the N-terminus of HIV Gag protein is currently the successful way to develop hybrid particles for co-delivering Cas9 mRNA and sgRNA. The effects of modifying Gag protein this way on particle assembly are unknown. Previously we found that adding an ABP after the second zinc finger domain of nucleocapsid (NC) protein had minimal effects on particle assembly. Based on these observations, here we developed hybrid particles for Cas9 mRNA and sgRNA co-delivery with normal capsid assembly efficiency. We further improved LVs for integrated gene expression by including an aptamer sequence in lentiviral genomic RNA, which improved lentiviral particle production and enhanced LV genomic RNA packaging. In summary, here we describe the development of new all-in-one VLPs for co-delivery of Cas9 mRNA and sgRNA, and new LVs for enhanced vector production and gene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manish Yadav
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Anthony Atala
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Baisong Lu
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, NC, USA.
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Das S, Bano S, Kapse P, Kundu GC. CRISPR based therapeutics: a new paradigm in cancer precision medicine. Mol Cancer 2022; 21:85. [PMID: 35337340 PMCID: PMC8953071 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-022-01552-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR)-CRISPR-associated protein (Cas) systems are the latest addition to the plethora of gene-editing tools. These systems have been repurposed from their natural counterparts by means of both guide RNA and Cas nuclease engineering. These RNA-guided systems offer greater programmability and multiplexing capacity than previous generation gene editing tools based on zinc finger nucleases and transcription activator like effector nucleases. CRISPR-Cas systems show great promise for individualization of cancer precision medicine. Main body The biology of Cas nucleases and dead Cas based systems relevant for in vivo gene therapy applications has been discussed. The CRISPR knockout, CRISPR activation and CRISPR interference based genetic screens which offer opportunity to assess functions of thousands of genes in massively parallel assays have been also highlighted. Single and combinatorial gene knockout screens lead to identification of drug targets and synthetic lethal genetic interactions across different cancer phenotypes. There are different viral and non-viral (nanoformulation based) modalities that can carry CRISPR-Cas components to different target organs in vivo. Conclusion The latest developments in the field in terms of optimization of performance of the CRISPR-Cas elements should fuel greater application of the latter in the realm of precision medicine. Lastly, how the already available knowledge can help in furtherance of use of CRISPR based tools in personalized medicine has been discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumit Das
- National Centre for Cell Science, S P Pune University Campus, Pune, 411007, India
| | - Shehnaz Bano
- National Centre for Cell Science, S P Pune University Campus, Pune, 411007, India
| | - Prachi Kapse
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, S P Pune University, Pune, 411007, India
| | - Gopal C Kundu
- Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS), KIIT Deemed To Be University, Bhubaneswar, 751024, India. .,School of Biotechnology, KIIT Deemed To Be University, Bhubaneswar, 751024, India.
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Zhu G, Zhu H. Modified Gene Editing Systems: Diverse Bioengineering Tools and Crop Improvement. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2022; 13:847169. [PMID: 35371136 PMCID: PMC8969578 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2022.847169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Gene-editing systems have emerged as bioengineering tools in recent years. Classical gene-editing systems include zinc-finger nucleases (ZFNs), transcription activator-like effector nucleases (TALENs), and clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) with CRISPR-associated protein 9 (Cas9) (CRISPR/Cas9), and these tools allow specific sequences to be targeted and edited. Various modified gene-editing systems have been established based on classical gene-editing systems. Base editors (BEs) can accurately carry out base substitution on target sequences, while prime editors (PEs) can replace or insert sequences. CRISPR systems targeting mitochondrial genomes and RNA have also been explored and established. Multiple gene-editing techniques based on CRISPR/Cas9 have been established and applied to genome engineering. Modified gene-editing systems also make transgene-free plants more readily available. In this review, we discuss the modifications made to gene-editing systems in recent years and summarize the capabilities, deficiencies, and applications of these modified gene-editing systems. Finally, we discuss the future developmental direction and challenges of modified gene-editing systems.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hongliang Zhu
- College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
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Saw PE, Cui GH, Xu X. Nanoparticles-mediated CRISPR/Cas gene editing delivery system. ChemMedChem 2022; 17:e202100777. [PMID: 35261159 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.202100777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 03/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The CRISPR/Cas gene editing system utilizes CRISPR RNA to guide the endonuclease in specifically breaking target gene, and then repairs genomic DNA by the means of homology directed repair (HDR) and non-homologous end joining (NHEJ). The gene editing system can only play its role in gene editing when it enters the nucleus. This crucial step in the process of gene editing is the major hurdle to gene therapy as it is still a huge challenge to efficiently deliver the CRISPR/Cas system to target tissues and cells. The low delivery efficiency hinders the clinical transformation of this technology. At present, delivery systems mainly include physical methods, viral vectors, and non-viral vectors. Due to the advantages of nanomaterial, it is currently being used rapidly in developing non-viral delivery systems. This review focuses on the mechanism of CRISPR/Cas and the delivery of gene editing system, following the research progress of nanoparticle-mediated gene editing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phei Er Saw
- Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, 107 West Yanjiang Road, 510000, Guangzhou, CHINA
| | - Guo-Hui Cui
- Sun Yat-sen University Zhongshan School of Medicine, Bio-safety Laboratory, CHINA
| | - Xiaoding Xu
- Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Medical Research Center, CHINA
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Baron Y, Sens J, Lange L, Nassauer L, Klatt D, Hoffmann D, Kleppa MJ, Barbosa PV, Keisker M, Steinberg V, Suerth JD, Vondran FW, Meyer J, Morgan M, Schambach A, Galla M. Improved alpharetrovirus-based Gag.MS2 particles for efficient and transient delivery of CRISPR-Cas9 into target cells. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2022; 27:810-823. [PMID: 35141043 PMCID: PMC8801357 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2021.12.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
DNA-modifying technologies, such as the CRISPR-Cas9 system, are promising tools in the field of gene and cell therapies. However, high and prolonged expression of DNA-modifying enzymes may cause cytotoxic and genotoxic side effects and is therefore unwanted in therapeutic approaches. Consequently, development of new and potent short-term delivery methods is of utmost importance. Recently, we developed non-integrating gammaretrovirus- and MS2 bacteriophage-based Gag.MS2 (g.Gag.MS2) particles for transient transfer of non-retroviral CRISPR-Cas9 RNA into target cells. In the present study, we further improved the technique by transferring the system to the alpharetroviral vector platform (a.Gag.MS2), which significantly increased CRISPR-Cas9 delivery into target cells and allowed efficient targeted knockout of endogenous TP53/Trp53 genes in primary murine fibroblasts as well as primary human fibroblasts, hepatocytes, and cord-blood-derived CD34+ stem and progenitor cells. Strikingly, co-packaging of Cas9 mRNA and multiple single guide RNAs (sgRNAs) into a.Gag.MS2 chimera displayed efficient targeted knockout of up to three genes. Co-transfection of single-stranded DNA donor oligonucleotides during CRISPR-Cas9 particle production generated all-in-one particles, which mediated up to 12.5% of homology-directed repair in primary cell cultures. In summary, optimized a.Gag.MS2 particles represent a versatile tool for short-term delivery of DNA-modifying enzymes into a variety of target cells, including primary murine and human cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yvonne Baron
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover 30625, Germany
| | - Johanna Sens
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover 30625, Germany
| | - Lucas Lange
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover 30625, Germany
| | - Larissa Nassauer
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover 30625, Germany
| | - Denise Klatt
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover 30625, Germany
| | - Dirk Hoffmann
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover 30625, Germany
| | - Marc-Jens Kleppa
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover 30625, Germany
| | - Philippe Vollmer Barbosa
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover 30625, Germany
- Fraunhofer Institute for Toxicology and Experimental Medicine, Hannover 30625, Germany
| | - Maximilian Keisker
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover 30625, Germany
| | - Viviane Steinberg
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover 30625, Germany
| | - Julia D. Suerth
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover 30625, Germany
| | - Florian W.R. Vondran
- ReMediES, Department of General, Visceral and Transplant Surgery, Hannover Medical School, Hannover 30625, Germany
- German Centre for Infection Research (DZIF), partner site Hannover-Braunschweig, Hannover Medical School, Hannover 30625, Germany
| | - Johann Meyer
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover 30625, Germany
| | - Michael Morgan
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover 30625, Germany
| | - Axel Schambach
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover 30625, Germany
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Melanie Galla
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover 30625, Germany
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Bloomer H, Khirallah J, Li Y, Xu Q. CRISPR/Cas9 ribonucleoprotein-mediated genome and epigenome editing in mammalian cells. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2022; 181:114087. [PMID: 34942274 PMCID: PMC8844242 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.114087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
The clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated protein (Cas) system has revolutionized the ability to edit the mammalian genome, providing a platform for the correction of pathogenic mutations and further investigation into gene function. CRISPR reagents can be delivered into the cell as DNA, RNA, or pre-formed ribonucleoproteins (RNPs). RNPs offer numerous advantages over other delivery approaches due to their ability to rapidly target genomic sites and quickly degrade thereafter. Here, we review the production steps and delivery methods for Cas9 RNPs. Additionally, we discuss how RNPs enhance genome and epigenome editing efficiencies, reduce off-target editing activity, and minimize cellular toxicity in clinically relevant mammalian cell types. We include details on a broad range of editing approaches, including novel base and prime editing techniques. Finally, we summarize key challenges for the use of RNPs, and propose future perspectives on the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanan Bloomer
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, MA 02155, US,School of Medicine and Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University, Boston, MA 02111, US
| | - Jennifer Khirallah
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, MA 02155, US
| | - Yamin Li
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, MA 02155, US,Corresponding Authors: (Y. Li) and (Q. Xu)
| | - Qiaobing Xu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, MA 02155, US,Corresponding Authors: (Y. Li) and (Q. Xu)
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Mianné J, Nasri A, Van CN, Bourguignon C, Fieldès M, Ahmed E, Duthoit C, Martin N, Parrinello H, Louis A, Iché A, Gayon R, Samain F, Lamouroux L, Bouillé P, Bourdin A, Assou S, De Vos J. CRISPR/Cas9-mediated gene knockout and interallelic gene conversion in human induced pluripotent stem cells using non-integrative bacteriophage-chimeric retrovirus-like particles. BMC Biol 2022; 20:8. [PMID: 34996449 PMCID: PMC8742436 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-021-01214-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The application of CRISPR/Cas9 technology in human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC) holds tremendous potential for basic research and cell-based gene therapy. However, the fulfillment of these promises relies on the capacity to efficiently deliver exogenous nucleic acids and harness the repair mechanisms induced by the nuclease activity in order to knock-out or repair targeted genes. Moreover, transient delivery should be preferred to avoid persistent nuclease activity and to decrease the risk of off-target events. We recently developed bacteriophage-chimeric retrovirus-like particles that exploit the properties of bacteriophage coat proteins to package exogenous RNA, and the benefits of lentiviral transduction to achieve highly efficient, non-integrative RNA delivery in human cells. Here, we investigated the potential of bacteriophage-chimeric retrovirus-like particles for the non-integrative delivery of RNA molecules in hiPSC for CRISPR/Cas9 applications. RESULTS We found that these particles efficiently convey RNA molecules for transient expression in hiPSC, with minimal toxicity and without affecting the cell pluripotency and subsequent differentiation. We then used this system to transiently deliver in a single step the CRISPR-Cas9 components (Cas9 mRNA and sgRNA) to generate gene knockout with high indel rate (up to 85%) at multiple loci. Strikingly, when using an allele-specific sgRNA at a locus harboring compound heterozygous mutations, the targeted allele was not altered by NHEJ/MMEJ, but was repaired at high frequency using the homologous wild type allele, i.e., by interallelic gene conversion. CONCLUSIONS Our results highlight the potential of bacteriophage-chimeric retrovirus-like particles to efficiently and safely deliver RNA molecules in hiPSC, and describe for the first time genome engineering by gene conversion in hiPSC. Harnessing this DNA repair mechanism could facilitate the therapeutic correction of human genetic disorders in hiPSC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joffrey Mianné
- IRMB, Univ Montpellier, INSERM, CHU Montpellier, Hôpital St Eloi, 80 avenue Augustin Fliche, 34295, Montpellier, France
| | - Amel Nasri
- IRMB, Univ Montpellier, INSERM, CHU Montpellier, Hôpital St Eloi, 80 avenue Augustin Fliche, 34295, Montpellier, France
| | - Chloé Nguyen Van
- IRMB, Univ Montpellier, INSERM, CHU Montpellier, Hôpital St Eloi, 80 avenue Augustin Fliche, 34295, Montpellier, France
| | - Chloé Bourguignon
- IRMB, Univ Montpellier, INSERM, CHU Montpellier, Hôpital St Eloi, 80 avenue Augustin Fliche, 34295, Montpellier, France
| | - Mathieu Fieldès
- IRMB, Univ Montpellier, INSERM, CHU Montpellier, Hôpital St Eloi, 80 avenue Augustin Fliche, 34295, Montpellier, France
| | - Engi Ahmed
- IRMB, Univ Montpellier, INSERM, CHU Montpellier, Hôpital St Eloi, 80 avenue Augustin Fliche, 34295, Montpellier, France
| | | | | | - Hugues Parrinello
- Univ. Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, Montpellier, France
- MGX-Montpellier GenomiX, Univ. Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, Montpellier, France
| | - Anaïs Louis
- Univ. Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, Montpellier, France
- MGX-Montpellier GenomiX, Univ. Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, Montpellier, France
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Arnaud Bourdin
- PhyMedExp, Univ Montpellier, INSERM, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Said Assou
- IRMB, Univ Montpellier, INSERM, CHU Montpellier, Hôpital St Eloi, 80 avenue Augustin Fliche, 34295, Montpellier, France
| | - John De Vos
- IRMB, Univ Montpellier, INSERM, CHU Montpellier, Hôpital St Eloi, 80 avenue Augustin Fliche, 34295, Montpellier, France.
- Department of Cell and Tissue Engineering, Univ Montpellier, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France.
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Kong H, Ju E, Yi K, Xu W, Lao Y, Cheng D, Zhang Q, Tao Y, Li M, Ding J. Advanced Nanotheranostics of CRISPR/Cas for Viral Hepatitis and Hepatocellular Carcinoma. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2021; 8:e2102051. [PMID: 34665528 PMCID: PMC8693080 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202102051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Revised: 07/25/2021] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Liver disease, particularly viral hepatitis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), is a global healthcare burden and leads to more than 2 million deaths per year worldwide. Despite some success in diagnosis and vaccine development, there are still unmet needs to improve diagnostics and therapeutics for viral hepatitis and HCC. The emerging clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat/associated proteins (CRISPR/Cas) technology may open up a unique avenue to tackle these two diseases at the genetic level in a precise manner. Especially, liver is a more accessible organ over others from the delivery point of view, and many advanced strategies applied for nanotheranostics can be adapted in CRISPR-mediated diagnostics or liver gene editing. In this review, the focus is on these two aspects of viral hepatitis and HCC applications. An overview on CRISPR editor development and current progress in clinical trials is first given, followed by highlighting the recent advances integrating the merits of gene editing and nanotheranostics. The promising systems that are used in other applications but may hold potentials in liver gene editing are also discussed. This review concludes with the perspectives on rationally designing the next-generation CRISPR approaches and improving the editing performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huimin Kong
- Laboratory of Biomaterials and Translational MedicineCenter for Nanomedicine and Biotherapy CenterThe Third Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen University600 Tianhe RoadGuangzhou510630P. R. China
| | - Enguo Ju
- Laboratory of Biomaterials and Translational MedicineCenter for Nanomedicine and Biotherapy CenterThe Third Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen University600 Tianhe RoadGuangzhou510630P. R. China
| | - Ke Yi
- Laboratory of Biomaterials and Translational MedicineCenter for Nanomedicine and Biotherapy CenterThe Third Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen University600 Tianhe RoadGuangzhou510630P. R. China
| | - Weiguo Xu
- Key Laboratory of Polymer EcomaterialsChangchun Institute of Applied ChemistryChinese Academy of Sciences5625 Renmin StreetChangchun130022P. R. China
| | - Yeh‐Hsing Lao
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringColumbia University3960 Broadway Lasker Room 450New YorkNY10032USA
| | - Du Cheng
- PCFM Lab of Ministry of EducationSchool of Materials Science and EngineeringSun Yat‐sen University135 Xingangxi RoadGuangzhou510275P. R. China
| | - Qi Zhang
- Laboratory of Biomaterials and Translational MedicineCenter for Nanomedicine and Biotherapy CenterThe Third Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen University600 Tianhe RoadGuangzhou510630P. R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research600 Tianhe RoadGuangzhou510630P. R. China
| | - Yu Tao
- Laboratory of Biomaterials and Translational MedicineCenter for Nanomedicine and Biotherapy CenterThe Third Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen University600 Tianhe RoadGuangzhou510630P. R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research600 Tianhe RoadGuangzhou510630P. R. China
| | - Mingqiang Li
- Laboratory of Biomaterials and Translational MedicineCenter for Nanomedicine and Biotherapy CenterThe Third Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen University600 Tianhe RoadGuangzhou510630P. R. China
| | - Jianxun Ding
- Key Laboratory of Polymer EcomaterialsChangchun Institute of Applied ChemistryChinese Academy of Sciences5625 Renmin StreetChangchun130022P. R. China
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Pan X, Veroniaina H, Su N, Sha K, Jiang F, Wu Z, Qi X. Applications and developments of gene therapy drug delivery systems for genetic diseases. Asian J Pharm Sci 2021; 16:687-703. [PMID: 35027949 PMCID: PMC8737406 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajps.2021.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2020] [Revised: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetic diseases seriously threaten human health and have always been one of the refractory conditions facing humanity. Currently, gene therapy drugs such as siRNA, shRNA, antisense oligonucleotide, CRISPR/Cas9 system, plasmid DNA and miRNA have shown great potential in biomedical applications. To avoid the degradation of gene therapy drugs in the body and effectively deliver them to target tissues, cells and organelles, the development of excellent drug delivery vehicles is of utmost importance. Viral vectors are the most widely used delivery vehicles for gene therapy in vivo and in vitro due to their high transfection efficiency and stable transgene expression. With the development of nanotechnology, novel nanocarriers are gradually replacing viral vectors, emerging superior performance. This review mainly illuminates the current widely used gene therapy drugs, summarizes the viral vectors and non-viral vectors that deliver gene therapy drugs, and sums up the application of gene therapy to treat genetic diseases. Additionally, the challenges and opportunities of the field are discussed from the perspective of developing an effective nano-delivery system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuhua Pan
- China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | | | - Nan Su
- China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Kang Sha
- China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Fenglin Jiang
- China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Zhenghong Wu
- China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Xiaole Qi
- China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
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Meneghini V, Peviani M, Luciani M, Zambonini G, Gritti A. Delivery Platforms for CRISPR/Cas9 Genome Editing of Glial Cells in the Central Nervous System. Front Genome Ed 2021; 3:644319. [PMID: 34713256 PMCID: PMC8525379 DOI: 10.3389/fgeed.2021.644319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Glial cells (astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and microglia) are emerging as key players in several physiological and pathological processes of the central nervous system (CNS). Astrocytes and oligodendrocytes are not only supportive cells that release trophic factors or regulate energy metabolism, but they also actively modulate critical neuronal processes and functions in the tripartite synapse. Microglia are defined as CNS-resident cells that provide immune surveillance; however, they also actively contribute to shaping the neuronal microenvironment by scavenging cell debris or regulating synaptogenesis and pruning. Given the many interconnected processes coordinated by glial cells, it is not surprising that both acute and chronic CNS insults not only cause neuronal damage but also trigger complex multifaceted responses, including neuroinflammation, which can critically contribute to the disease progression and worsening of symptoms in several neurodegenerative diseases. Overall, this makes glial cells excellent candidates for targeted therapies to treat CNS disorders. In recent years, the application of gene editing technologies has redefined therapeutic strategies to treat genetic and age-related neurological diseases. In this review, we discuss the advantages and limitations of clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/Cas9-based gene editing in the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders, focusing on the development of viral- and nanoparticle-based delivery methods for in vivo glial cell targeting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasco Meneghini
- San Raffaele Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-Tiget), IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Peviani
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology "L. Spallanzani", University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Marco Luciani
- San Raffaele Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-Tiget), IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Giada Zambonini
- San Raffaele Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-Tiget), IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Angela Gritti
- San Raffaele Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-Tiget), IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
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Vicente MM, Chaves-Ferreira M, Jorge JMP, Proença JT, Barreto VM. The Off-Targets of Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats Gene Editing. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:718466. [PMID: 34604217 PMCID: PMC8484971 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.718466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The repurposing of the CRISPR/Cas bacterial defense system against bacteriophages as simple and flexible molecular tools has revolutionized the field of gene editing. These tools are now widely used in basic research and clinical trials involving human somatic cells. However, a global moratorium on all clinical uses of human germline editing has been proposed because the technology still lacks the required efficacy and safety. Here we focus on the approaches developed since 2013 to decrease the frequency of unwanted mutations (the off-targets) during CRISPR-based gene editing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel M Vicente
- DNA Breaks Group, NOVA Medical School (NMS), Centro de Estudos de Doenças Crónicas (CEDOC), NOVA University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Miguel Chaves-Ferreira
- DNA Breaks Group, NOVA Medical School (NMS), Centro de Estudos de Doenças Crónicas (CEDOC), NOVA University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - João M P Jorge
- DNA Breaks Group, NOVA Medical School (NMS), Centro de Estudos de Doenças Crónicas (CEDOC), NOVA University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - João T Proença
- DNA Breaks Group, NOVA Medical School (NMS), Centro de Estudos de Doenças Crónicas (CEDOC), NOVA University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Vasco M Barreto
- DNA Breaks Group, NOVA Medical School (NMS), Centro de Estudos de Doenças Crónicas (CEDOC), NOVA University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
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38
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Yu M, Liu X, Cheng H, Kuang L, Zhang S, Yan X. Latest progress in the study of nanoparticle-based delivery of the CRISPR/Cas9 system. Methods 2021; 194:48-55. [PMID: 34107351 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymeth.2021.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Revised: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The CRISPR/Cas9 system has been harnessed to cleave a targeted DNA fragment via its Cas nuclease activity under the direction of guide RNA for rendering gene insertions, deletions, and point mutations in basic research and clinical applications. There are a number of vehicles, including lipofectamine, viruses, and nanoparticles, that can deliver the CRISPR/Cas9 system, but all these methods face numerous challenges during their application in life science contexts. Here, we focus on the delivery of CRISPR/Cas9 via nanoparticles because this method has shown great advantages in terms of safety, simplicity and flexibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingyu Yu
- Shenzhen Eye Hospital, Jinan University, Shenzhen 518040, China; School of Optometry, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518040, China
| | - Xiaowen Liu
- Clinical Translational Center for Targeted Drug, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Hongbo Cheng
- Shenzhen Eye Hospital, Jinan University, Shenzhen 518040, China; School of Optometry, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518040, China
| | - Longhao Kuang
- Shenzhen Eye Hospital, Jinan University, Shenzhen 518040, China; School of Optometry, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518040, China
| | - Shaochong Zhang
- Shenzhen Eye Hospital, Jinan University, Shenzhen 518040, China; School of Optometry, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518040, China.
| | - Xiaohe Yan
- Shenzhen Eye Hospital, Jinan University, Shenzhen 518040, China; School of Optometry, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518040, China.
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39
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Chuang CK, Lin WM. Points of View on the Tools for Genome/Gene Editing. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:9872. [PMID: 34576035 PMCID: PMC8470269 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22189872] [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: 08/10/2021] [Revised: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Theoretically, a DNA sequence-specific recognition protein that can distinguish a DNA sequence equal to or more than 16 bp could be unique to mammalian genomes. Long-sequence-specific nucleases, such as naturally occurring Homing Endonucleases and artificially engineered ZFN, TALEN, and Cas9-sgRNA, have been developed and widely applied in genome editing. In contrast to other counterparts, which recognize DNA target sites by the protein moieties themselves, Cas9 uses a single-guide RNA (sgRNA) as a template for DNA target recognition. Due to the simplicity in designing and synthesizing a sgRNA for a target site, Cas9-sgRNA has become the most current tool for genome editing. Moreover, the RNA-guided DNA recognition activity of Cas9-sgRNA is independent of both of the nuclease activities of it on the complementary strand by the HNH domain and the non-complementary strand by the RuvC domain, and HNH nuclease activity null mutant (H840A) and RuvC nuclease activity null mutant (D10A) were identified. In accompaniment with the sgRNA, Cas9, Cas9(D10A), Cas9(H840A), and Cas9(D10A, H840A) can be used to achieve double strand breakage, complementary strand breakage, non-complementary strand breakage, and no breakage on-target site, respectively. Based on such unique characteristics, many engineered enzyme activities, such as DNA methylation, histone methylation, histone acetylation, cytidine deamination, adenine deamination, and primer-directed mutation, could be introduced within or around the target site. In order to prevent off-targeting by the lasting expression of Cas9 derivatives, a lot of transient expression methods, including the direct delivery of Cas9-sgRNA riboprotein, were developed. The issue of biosafety is indispensable in in vivo applications; Cas9-sgRNA packaged into virus-like particles or extracellular vesicles have been designed and some in vivo therapeutic trials have been reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chin-Kai Chuang
- Animal Technology Research Center, Division of Animal Technology, Agricultural Technology Research Institute, No. 52, Kedong 2nd Rd., Zhunan Township, Miaoli County 35053, Taiwan;
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40
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Tang N, Zhang Y, Shen Z, Yao Y, Nair V. Application of CRISPR-Cas9 Editing for Virus Engineering and the Development of Recombinant Viral Vaccines. CRISPR J 2021; 4:477-490. [PMID: 34406035 DOI: 10.1089/crispr.2021.0017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
CRISPR-Cas technology, discovered originally as a bacterial defense system, has been extensively repurposed as a powerful tool for genome editing for multiple applications in biology. In the field of virology, CRISPR-Cas9 technology has been widely applied on genetic recombination and engineering of genomes of various viruses to ask some fundamental questions about virus-host interactions. Its high efficiency, specificity, versatility, and low cost have also provided great inspiration and hope in the field of vaccinology to solve a series of bottleneck problems in the development of recombinant viral vaccines. This review highlights the applications of CRISPR editing in the technological advances compared to the traditional approaches used for the construction of recombinant viral vaccines and vectors, the main factors affecting their application, and the challenges that need to be overcome for further streamlining their effective usage in the prevention and control of diseases. Factors affecting efficiency, target specificity, and fidelity of CRISPR-Cas editing in the context of viral genome editing and development of recombinant vaccines are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Tang
- Shandong Binzhou Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine Academy and UK-China Centre of Excellence for Research on Avian Diseases, Binzhou, P.R. China; University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Yaoyao Zhang
- The Pirbright Institute and UK-China Centre of Excellence for Research on Avian Diseases, Pirbright, Ash road, Guildford, Surrey, United Kingdom; University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Zhiqiang Shen
- Shandong Binzhou Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine Academy and UK-China Centre of Excellence for Research on Avian Diseases, Binzhou, P.R. China; University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Yongxiu Yao
- The Pirbright Institute and UK-China Centre of Excellence for Research on Avian Diseases, Pirbright, Ash road, Guildford, Surrey, United Kingdom; University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Venugopal Nair
- The Pirbright Institute and UK-China Centre of Excellence for Research on Avian Diseases, Pirbright, Ash road, Guildford, Surrey, United Kingdom; University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.,The Jenner Institute Laboratories, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom; and University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.,Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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Modular Lentiviral Vectors for Highly Efficient Transgene Expression in Resting Immune Cells. Viruses 2021; 13:v13061170. [PMID: 34207354 PMCID: PMC8235771 DOI: 10.3390/v13061170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Revised: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Gene/cell therapies are promising strategies for the many presently incurable diseases. A key step in this process is the efficient delivery of genes and gene-editing enzymes to many cell types that may be resistant to lentiviral vector transduction. Herein we describe tuning of a lentiviral gene therapy platform to focus on genetic modifications of resting CD4+ T cells. The motivation for this was to find solutions for HIV gene therapy efforts. Through selection of the optimal viral envelope and further modification to its expression, lentiviral fusogenic delivery into resting CD4+ T cells exceeded 80%, yet Sterile Alpha Motif and HD domain 1 (SAMHD1) dependent and independent intracellular restriction factors within resting T cells then dominate delivery and integration of lentiviral cargo. Overcoming SAMHD1-imposed restrictions, only observed up to 6-fold increase in transduction, with maximal gene delivery and expression of 35%. To test if the biologically limiting steps of lentiviral delivery are reverse transcription and integration, we re-engineered lentiviral vectors to simply express biologically active mRNA to direct transgene expression in the cytoplasm. In this setting, we observed gene expression in up to 65% of resting CD4+ T cells using unconcentrated MS2 lentivirus-like particles (MS2-LVLPs). Taken together, our findings support a gene therapy platform that could be readily used in resting T cell gene editing.
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42
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Chen L, Hong W, Ren W, Xu T, Qian Z, He Z. Recent progress in targeted delivery vectors based on biomimetic nanoparticles. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2021; 6:225. [PMID: 34099630 PMCID: PMC8182741 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-021-00631-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2021] [Revised: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the past decades, great interest has been given to biomimetic nanoparticles (BNPs) since the rise of targeted drug delivery systems and biomimetic nanotechnology. Biological vectors including cell membranes, extracellular vesicles (EVs), and viruses are considered promising candidates for targeted delivery owing to their biocompatibility and biodegradability. BNPs, the integration of biological vectors and functional agents, are anticipated to load cargos or camouflage synthetic nanoparticles to achieve targeted delivery. Despite their excellent intrinsic properties, natural vectors are deliberately modified to endow multiple functions such as good permeability, improved loading capability, and high specificity. Through structural modification and transformation of the vectors, they are pervasively utilized as more effective vehicles that can deliver contrast agents, chemotherapy drugs, nucleic acids, and genes to target sites for refractory disease therapy. This review summarizes recent advances in targeted delivery vectors based on cell membranes, EVs, and viruses, highlighting the potential applications of BNPs in the fields of biomedical imaging and therapy industry, as well as discussing the possibility of clinical translation and exploitation trend of these BNPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Weiqi Hong
- Department of Pharmacy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Wenyan Ren
- Department of Pharmacy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Ting Xu
- Department of Pharmacy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Zhiyong Qian
- Department of Pharmacy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Zhiyao He
- Department of Pharmacy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.
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43
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Lu Z, Yao X, Lyu P, Yadav M, Yoo K, Atala A, Lu B. Lentiviral Capsid-Mediated Streptococcus pyogenes Cas9 Ribonucleoprotein Delivery for Efficient and Safe Multiplex Genome Editing. CRISPR J 2021; 4:914-928. [PMID: 33733873 DOI: 10.1089/crispr.2020.0106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Transient expression of the CRISPR-Cas9 machinery is desirable to reduce the risks of off-targets and immune responses. Electroporation of Cas9 ribonucleoproteins (RNPs) is the most common delivery method to achieve transient Cas9 expression. Recently, retroviral capsids have been used for delivering Streptococcus pyogenes Cas9 RNPs, in which Cas9 was fused to the viral proteins. The fusion strategy may cause relative low capsid assembly efficiency. We recently developed virus-like particles (VLPs) consisting of lentiviral capsid and Staphylococcus aureus Cas9 RNPs using the specific interactions between aptamer and aptamer-binding protein (ABP), and obtained near-normal capsid assembly efficiency. Here we test whether highly active Streptococcus pyogenes Cas9 (SpCas9) RNP VLPs can be generated with high efficiency by aptamer/ABP interaction. We found that by optimizing the locations and types of aptamer used for single guide RNA modification, highly active SpCas9 RNP VLPs can be generated efficiently. VLP-delivered SpCas9 generated lower off-target insertions and deletions than SpCas9 RNPs delivered by electroporation. VLPs containing Cas9 from different species and targeting multiple genes can be efficiently prepared in single-particle preparation. Multiple-target VLPs were more efficient than the combination of single-target VLPs for simultaneous targeting of multiple genes. Thus, in addition to better safety features, the Cas9 VLPs are especially suited for multiplex genome editing. In summary, our VLPs offer safe, efficient, and flexible multiplex genome editing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuyan Lu
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Xingang Yao
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA.,School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Pin Lyu
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Manish Yadav
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Kyung Yoo
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Anthony Atala
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Baisong Lu
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
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44
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Rabinowitz R, Offen D. Single-Base Resolution: Increasing the Specificity of the CRISPR-Cas System in Gene Editing. Mol Ther 2021; 29:937-948. [PMID: 33248248 PMCID: PMC7938333 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2020.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2020] [Revised: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The CRISPR-Cas system holds great promise in the treatment of diseases caused by genetic variations. The Cas protein, an RNA-guided programmable nuclease, generates a double-strand break at precise genomic loci. However, the use of the clustered regularly interspersed short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-Cas system to distinguish between single-nucleotide variations is challenging. The promiscuity of the guide RNA (gRNA) and its mismatch tolerance make allele-specific targeting an elusive goal. This review presents a meta-analysis of previous studies reporting position-dependent mismatch tolerance within the gRNA. We also examine the conservativity of the seed sequence, a region within the gRNA with stringent sequence dependency, and propose the existence of a subregion within the seed sequence with a higher degree of specificity. In addition, we summarize the reports on high-fidelity Cas nucleases with improved specificity and compare the standard gRNA design methodology to the single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)-derived protospacer adjacent motif (PAM) approach, an alternative method for allele-specific targeting. The combination of the two methods may be advantageous in designing CRISPR-based therapeutics and diagnostics for heterozygous patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roy Rabinowitz
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel; Felsenstein Medical Research Center, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.
| | - Daniel Offen
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel; Felsenstein Medical Research Center, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.
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45
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Yao X, Lyu P, Yoo K, Yadav MK, Singh R, Atala A, Lu B. Engineered extracellular vesicles as versatile ribonucleoprotein delivery vehicles for efficient and safe CRISPR genome editing. J Extracell Vesicles 2021; 10:e12076. [PMID: 33747370 PMCID: PMC7962171 DOI: 10.1002/jev2.12076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Transient delivery of CRISPR-based genome editing effectors is important to reduce off-target effects and immune responses. Recently extracellular vesicles (EVs) have been explored for Cas9 ribonucleoprotein (RNP) delivery. However, lack of mechanisms to enrich RNPs into EVs limited the efficiency of EVs as a RNP delivery vehicle. Here we describe a mechanism to actively enrich RNPs into EVs. We used the specific interaction between RNA aptamer and aptamer-binding protein (ABP) to enrich RNPs into EVs. We inserted RNA aptamer com into single guide RNA (sgRNA), and fused com-binding ABP Com to both termini of tetraspan protein CD63 that is abundant in exosomes. We found that the Com/com interaction enriched Cas9 and adenine base editor (ABE) RNPs into EVs, via forming a three-component complex including CD63-Com fusion protein, com-modified sgRNA and Cas9 or ABE. The RNP enriched EVs are efficient in genome editing and transiently expressed. The system is capable of delivering RNPs targeting multiple loci for multiplex genome editing. In addition, Cas9 from different species can be used together. The EV-delivered RNPs are active in vivo. The data show that the aptamer and ABP interactions can be utilized to actively enrich RNPs into EVs for improved genome editing efficiency and safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingang Yao
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative MedicineWake Forest University Health SciencesWinston‐SalemNorth CarolinaUSA,State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure ResearchGuangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug ScreeningSchool of Pharmaceutical SciencesSouthern Medical UniversityGuangzhouP. R. China
| | - Pin Lyu
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative MedicineWake Forest University Health SciencesWinston‐SalemNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Kyung Yoo
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative MedicineWake Forest University Health SciencesWinston‐SalemNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Manish Kumar Yadav
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative MedicineWake Forest University Health SciencesWinston‐SalemNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Ravi Singh
- Department of Cancer BiologyWake Forest University Health SciencesWinston‐SalemNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Anthony Atala
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative MedicineWake Forest University Health SciencesWinston‐SalemNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Baisong Lu
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative MedicineWake Forest University Health SciencesWinston‐SalemNorth CarolinaUSA
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46
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Lyu P, Lu Z, Cho SI, Yadav M, Yoo KW, Atala A, Kim JS, Lu B. Adenine Base Editor Ribonucleoproteins Delivered by Lentivirus-Like Particles Show High On-Target Base Editing and Undetectable RNA Off-Target Activities. CRISPR J 2021; 4:69-81. [PMID: 33616436 DOI: 10.1089/crispr.2020.0095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Adenine base editors (ABEs) can correct gene mutations without creating double-strand breaks. However, in recent reports, these editors showed guide-independent RNA off-target activities. This work describes our development of a delivery method to minimize ABEs' RNA off-target activity. After discovering a RNA off-target hot spot for sensitive detection of RNA off-target activities, we found that delivering ribonucleoproteins (RNPs) by electroporation generated undetectable non-specific RNA editing, but on-target base editing activity was also relatively low. We then explored a lentivirus capsid-based delivery strategy to deliver ABE. We used aptamer/aptamer-binding protein (ABP) interactions to package ABE RNPs into lentiviral capsids. Capsid RNPs were delivered to human cells for highly efficient guided base editing. Importantly, RNA off-target activities from the capsid RNPs were undetectable. Our new lentiviral capsid-based ABE RNP delivery method with minimal RNA off-target activities makes ABE one step closer to possible therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pin Lyu
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
- School of Physical Education and Health, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, PR China
| | - Zuyan Lu
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Sung-Ik Cho
- Department of Chemistry, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Center for Genome Engineering, Institute for Basic Science, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Manish Yadav
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Kyung Whan Yoo
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Anthony Atala
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jin-Soo Kim
- Center for Genome Engineering, Institute for Basic Science, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Baisong Lu
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
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47
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Lentiviral delivery of co-packaged Cas9 mRNA and a Vegfa-targeting guide RNA prevents wet age-related macular degeneration in mice. Nat Biomed Eng 2021; 5:144-156. [PMID: 33398131 DOI: 10.1038/s41551-020-00656-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2019] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Therapeutic genome editing requires effective and targeted delivery methods. The delivery of Cas9 mRNA using adeno-associated viruses has led to potent in vivo therapeutic efficacy, but can cause sustained Cas9 expression, anti-Cas9 immune responses and off-target edits. Lentiviral vectors have been engineered to deliver nucleases that are expressed transiently, but in vivo evidence of their biomedical efficacy is lacking. Here, we show that the lentiviral codelivery of Streptococcus pyogenes Cas9 mRNA and expression cassettes that encode a guide RNA that targets vascular endothelial growth factor A (Vegfa) is efficacious in a mouse model of wet age-related macular degeneration induced by Vegfa. A single subretinal injection of engineered lentiviruses knocked out 44% of Vegfa in retinal pigment epithelium and reduced the area of choroidal neovascularization by 63% without inducing off-target edits or anti-Cas9 immune responses. Engineered lentiviruses for the transient expression of nucleases may form the basis of new treatments for retinal neovascular diseases.
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48
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Lyu P, Wang L, Lu B. Virus-Like Particle Mediated CRISPR/Cas9 Delivery for Efficient and Safe Genome Editing. Life (Basel) 2020; 10:366. [PMID: 33371215 PMCID: PMC7766694 DOI: 10.3390/life10120366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Revised: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The discovery of designer nucleases has made genome editing much more efficient than before. The designer nucleases have been widely used for mechanistic studies, animal model generation and gene therapy development. However, potential off-targets and host immune responses are issues still need to be addressed for in vivo uses, especially clinical applications. Short term expression of the designer nucleases is necessary to reduce both risks. Currently, various delivery methods are being developed for transient expression of designer nucleases including Zinc Finger Nuclease (ZNF), Transcription Activator-Like Effector Nuclease (TALEN) and Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats/CRISPR-associated (CRISPR/Cas). Recently, virus-like particles are being used for gene editing. In this review, we will talk through commonly used genome editing nucleases, discuss gene editing delivery tools and review the latest literature using virus-like particles to deliver gene editing effectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pin Lyu
- School of Physical Education and Health, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 311121, China;
| | - Luxi Wang
- Department of Cancer Biology, Comprehensive Cancer Center of Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA;
| | - Baisong Lu
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA
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49
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Lyu P, Yoo KW, Yadav MK, Atala A, Aartsma-Rus A, van Putten M, Duan D, Lu B. Sensitive and reliable evaluation of single-cut sgRNAs to restore dystrophin by a GFP-reporter assay. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0239468. [PMID: 32970732 PMCID: PMC7514106 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0239468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Most Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) cases are caused by deletions or duplications of one or more exons that disrupt the reading frame of DMD mRNA. Restoring the reading frame allows the production of partially functional dystrophin proteins, and result in less severe symptoms. Antisense oligonucleotide mediated exon skipping has been approved for DMD, but this strategy needs repeated treatment. CRISPR/Cas9 can also restore dystrophin reading frame. Although recent in vivo studies showed the efficacy of the single-cut reframing/exon skipping strategy, methods to find the most efficient single-cut sgRNAs for a specific mutation are lacking. Here we show that the insertion/deletion (INDEL) generating efficiency and the INDEL profiles both contribute to the reading frame restoring efficiency of a single-cut sgRNA, thus assays only examining INDEL frequency are not able to find the best sgRNAs. We therefore developed a GFP-reporter assay to evaluate single-cut reframing efficiency, reporting the combined effects of both aspects. We show that the GFP-reporter assay can reliably predict the performance of sgRNAs in myoblasts. This GFP-reporter assay makes it possible to efficiently and reliably find the most efficient single-cut sgRNA for restoring dystrophin expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pin Lyu
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Kyung Whan Yoo
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Manish Kumar Yadav
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Anthony Atala
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, United States of America
| | | | | | - Dongsheng Duan
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Baisong Lu
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Schenkwein D, Afzal S, Nousiainen A, Schmidt M, Ylä-Herttuala S. Efficient Nuclease-Directed Integration of Lentivirus Vectors into the Human Ribosomal DNA Locus. Mol Ther 2020; 28:1858-1875. [PMID: 32504545 PMCID: PMC7403359 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2020.05.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2019] [Revised: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 05/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Lentivirus vectors (LVs) are efficient tools for gene transfer, but the non-specific nature of transgene integration by the viral integration machinery carries an inherent risk for genotoxicity. We modified the integration machinery of LVs and harnessed the cellular DNA double-strand break repair machinery to integrate transgenes into ribosomal DNA, a promising genomic safe-harbor site for transgenes. LVs carrying modified I-PpoI-derived homing endonuclease proteins were characterized in detail, and we found that at least 21% of all integration sites localized to ribosomal DNA when LV transduction was coupled to target DNA cleavage. In addition to the primary sequence recognized by the endonuclease, integration was also enriched in chromatin domains topologically associated with nucleoli, which contain the targeted ribosome RNA genes. Targeting of this highly repetitive region for integration was not associated with detectable DNA deletions or negative impacts on cell health in transduced primary human T cells. The modified LVs characterized here have an overall lower risk for insertional mutagenesis than regular LVs and can thus improve the safety of gene and cellular therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Schenkwein
- A.I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FIN-70211 Kuopio, Finland
| | - Saira Afzal
- Department of Translational Oncology, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Im Neuenheimer Feld 581, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Alisa Nousiainen
- A.I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FIN-70211 Kuopio, Finland
| | - Manfred Schmidt
- Department of Translational Oncology, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Im Neuenheimer Feld 581, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; GeneWerk GmbH, Im Neuenheimer Feld 582, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Seppo Ylä-Herttuala
- A.I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FIN-70211 Kuopio, Finland; Heart Center and Gene Therapy Unit, Kuopio University Hospital, P.O. Box 1777, FIN-70211 Kuopio, Finland.
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