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Naaz A, Turnquist HR, Gorantla VS, Little SR. Drug delivery strategies for local immunomodulation in transplantation: Bridging the translational gap. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2024; 213:115429. [PMID: 39142608 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2024.115429] [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: 02/15/2024] [Revised: 08/07/2024] [Accepted: 08/11/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024]
Abstract
Drug delivery strategies for local immunomodulation hold tremendous promise compared to current clinical gold-standard systemic immunosuppression as they could improve the benefit to risk ratio of life-saving or life-enhancing transplants. Such strategies have facilitated prolonged graft survival in animal models at lower drug doses while minimizing off-target effects. Despite the promising outcomes in preclinical animal studies, progression of these strategies to clinical trials has faced challenges. A comprehensive understanding of the translational barriers is a critical first step towards clinical validation of effective immunomodulatory drug delivery protocols proven for safety and tolerability in pre-clinical animal models. This review overviews the current state-of-the-art in local immunomodulatory strategies for transplantation and outlines the key challenges hindering their clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afsana Naaz
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, United States; Thomas E. Starzl Transplantation Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, United States.
| | - Heth R Turnquist
- Thomas E. Starzl Transplantation Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, United States; Department of Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, United States; Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, United States; McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15219, United States.
| | - Vijay S Gorantla
- McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15219, United States; Departments of Surgery, Ophthalmology and Bioengineering, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Wake Forest Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Winston Salem, NC, 27101, United States.
| | - Steven R Little
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, United States; Department of Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, United States; Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, United States; McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15219, United States; Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, United States; Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, United States; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, United States.
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Anggelia MR, Cheng HY, Lin CH. Thermosensitive Hydrogels as Targeted and Controlled Drug Delivery Systems: Potential Applications in Transplantation. Macromol Biosci 2024; 24:e2400064. [PMID: 38991045 DOI: 10.1002/mabi.202400064] [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: 02/14/2024] [Revised: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
Drug delivery in transplantation plays a vital role in promoting graft survival, preventing rejection, managing complications, and contributing to positive patient outcomes. Targeted and controlled drug delivery can minimize systemic effects. Thermosensitive hydrogels, due to their unique sol-gel transition properties triggered by thermo-stimuli, have attracted significant research interest as a potential drug delivery system in transplantation. This review describes the current status, characteristics, and recent applications of thermosensitive hydrogels for drug delivery. Studies aimed at improving allotransplantation outcomes using thermosensitive hydrogels are then elaborated on. Finally, the challenges and opportunities associated with their use are discussed. Understanding the progress of research will serve as a guide for future improvements in their application as a means of targeted and controlled drug delivery in translational therapeutic applications for transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madonna Rica Anggelia
- Center for Vascularized Composite Allotransplantation, Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung Medical College and Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, 333, Taiwan
| | - Hui-Yun Cheng
- Center for Vascularized Composite Allotransplantation, Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung Medical College and Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, 333, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Hung Lin
- Center for Vascularized Composite Allotransplantation, Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung Medical College and Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, 333, Taiwan
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Arenas Hoyos I, Helmer A, Yerly A, Lese I, Hirsiger S, Zhang L, Casoni D, Garcia L, Petrucci M, Hammer SE, Duckova T, Banz Y, Montani M, Constantinescu M, Vögelin E, Bordon G, Aleandri S, Prost JC, Taddeo A, Luciani P, Rieben R, Sorvillo N, Olariu R. A local drug delivery system prolongs graft survival by dampening T cell infiltration and neutrophil extracellular trap formation in vascularized composite allografts. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1387945. [PMID: 38887281 PMCID: PMC11180892 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1387945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The standard treatment for preventing rejection in vascularized composite allotransplantation (VCA) currently relies on systemic immunosuppression, which exposes the host to well-known side effects. Locally administered immunosuppression strategies have shown promising results to bypass this hurdle. Nevertheless, their progress has been slow, partially attributed to a limited understanding of the essential mechanisms underlying graft rejection. Recent discoveries highlight the crucial involvement of innate immune components, such as neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), in organ transplantation. Here we aimed to prolong graft survival through a tacrolimus-based drug delivery system and to understand the role of NETs in VCA graft rejection. Methods To prevent off-target toxicity and promote graft survival, we tested a locally administered tacrolimus-loaded on-demand drug delivery system (TGMS-TAC) in a multiple MHC-mismatched porcine VCA model. Off-target toxicity was assessed in tissue and blood. Graft rejection was evaluated macroscopically while the complement system, T cells, neutrophils and NETs were analyzed in graft tissues by immunofluorescence and/or western blot. Plasmatic levels of inflammatory cytokines were measured using a Luminex magnetic-bead porcine panel, and NETs were measured in plasma and tissue using DNA-MPO ELISA. Lastly, to evaluate the effect of tacrolimus on NET formation, NETs were induced in-vitro in porcine and human peripheral neutrophils following incubation with tacrolimus. Results Repeated intra-graft administrations of TGMS-TAC minimized systemic toxicity and prolonged graft survival. Nevertheless, signs of rejection were observed at endpoint. Systemically, there were no increases in cytokine levels, complement anaphylatoxins, T-cell subpopulations, or neutrophils during rejection. Yet, tissue analysis showed local infiltration of T cells and neutrophils, together with neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) in rejected grafts. Interestingly, intra-graft administration of tacrolimus contributed to a reduction in both T-cellular infiltration and NETs. In fact, in-vitro NETosis assessment showed a 62-84% reduction in NETs after stimulated neutrophils were treated with tacrolimus. Conclusion Our data indicate that the proposed local delivery of immunosuppression avoids off-target toxicity while prolonging graft survival in a multiple MHC-mismatch VCA model. Furthermore, NETs are found to play a role in graft rejection and could therefore be a potential innovative therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Arenas Hoyos
- Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Anja Helmer
- Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Anaïs Yerly
- Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Ioana Lese
- Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Stefanie Hirsiger
- Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Lei Zhang
- Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Daniela Casoni
- Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Luisana Garcia
- Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | | | - Sabine E. Hammer
- Institute of Immunology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, City Bern, Austria
| | - Tereza Duckova
- Institute of Immunology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, City Bern, Austria
| | - Yara Banz
- Institute of Pathology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Matteo Montani
- Institute of Pathology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Mihai Constantinescu
- Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Esther Vögelin
- Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Gregor Bordon
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Simone Aleandri
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Jean-Christophe Prost
- University Institute of Clinical Chemistry, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Vienna, Switzerland
| | - Adriano Taddeo
- Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Paola Luciani
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Robert Rieben
- Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Nicoletta Sorvillo
- Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Radu Olariu
- Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, Bern, Switzerland
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Zhang L, Arenas Hoyos I, Helmer A, Banz Y, Zubler C, Lese I, Hirsiger S, Constantinescu M, Rieben R, Gultom M, Olariu R. Transcriptome profiling of immune rejection mechanisms in a porcine vascularized composite allotransplantation model. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1390163. [PMID: 38840906 PMCID: PMC11151749 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1390163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Vascularized composite allotransplantation (VCA) offers the potential for a biological, functional reconstruction in individuals with limb loss or facial disfigurement. Yet, it faces substantial challenges due to heightened immune rejection rates compared to solid organ transplants. A deep understanding of the genetic and immunological drivers of VCA rejection is essential to improve VCA outcomes. Methods Heterotopic porcine hindlimb VCA models were established and followed until reaching the endpoint. Skin and muscle samples were obtained from VCA transplant recipient pigs for histological assessments and RNA sequencing analysis. The rejection groups included recipients with moderate pathological rejection, treated locally with tacrolimus encapsulated in triglycerol-monostearate gel (TGMS-TAC), as well as recipients with severe end-stage rejection presenting evident necrosis. Healthy donor tissue served as controls. Bioinformatics analysis, immunofluorescence, and electron microscopy were utilized to examine gene expression patterns and the expression of immune response markers. Results Our comprehensive analyses encompassed differentially expressed genes, Gene Ontology, and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathways, spanning various composite tissues including skin and muscle, in comparison to the healthy control group. The analysis revealed a consistency and reproducibility in alignment with the pathological rejection grading. Genes and pathways associated with innate immunity, notably pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs), and antigen processing and presentation pathways, exhibited upregulation in the VCA rejection groups compared to the healthy controls. Our investigation identified significant shifts in gene expression related to cytokines, chemokines, complement pathways, and diverse immune cell types, with CD8 T cells and macrophages notably enriched in the VCA rejection tissues. Mechanisms of cell death, such as apoptosis, necroptosis and ferroptosis were observed and coexisted in rejected tissues. Conclusion Our study provides insights into the genetic profile of tissue rejection in the porcine VCA model. We comprehensively analyze the molecular landscape of immune rejection mechanisms, from innate immunity activation to critical stages such as antigen recognition, cytotoxic rejection, and cell death. This research advances our understanding of graft rejection mechanisms and offers potential for improving diagnostic and therapeutic strategies to enhance the long-term success of VCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Zhang
- Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, Inselspital University Hospital Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department for BioMedical Research, Faculty of Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Isabel Arenas Hoyos
- Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, Inselspital University Hospital Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Anja Helmer
- Department for BioMedical Research, Faculty of Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Yara Banz
- Institute of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Cédric Zubler
- Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, Inselspital University Hospital Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Ioana Lese
- Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, Inselspital University Hospital Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department for BioMedical Research, Faculty of Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Stefanie Hirsiger
- Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, Inselspital University Hospital Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Mihai Constantinescu
- Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, Inselspital University Hospital Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Robert Rieben
- Department for BioMedical Research, Faculty of Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Mitra Gultom
- Department for BioMedical Research, Faculty of Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Radu Olariu
- Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, Inselspital University Hospital Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department for BioMedical Research, Faculty of Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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Ben Brahim B, Arenas Hoyos I, Zhang L, Vögelin E, Olariu R, Rieben R. Tacrolimus-loaded Drug Delivery Systems in Vascularized Composite Allotransplantation: Lessons and Opportunities for Local Immunosuppression. Transplantation 2024:00007890-990000000-00769. [PMID: 38773862 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000005049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2024]
Abstract
Long-term systemic immunosuppression is needed for vascularized composite allotransplantation (VCA). The high rate of acute rejection episodes in the first posttransplant year, the development of chronic rejection, and the adverse effects that come along with this treatment, currently prevent a wider clinical application of VCA. Opportunistic infections and metabolic disturbances are among the most observed side effects in VCA recipients. To overcome these challenges, local immunosuppression using biomaterial-based drug delivery systems (DDS) have been developed. The aim of these systems is to provide high local concentrations of immunosuppressive drugs while reducing their systemic load. This review provides a summary of recently investigated local DDS with different mechanisms of action such as on-demand, ultrasound-sensitive, or continuous drug delivery. In preclinical models, ranging from rodent to porcine and nonhuman primate models, this approach has been shown to reduce systemic tacrolimus (TAC) load and adverse effects, while prolonging graft survival. Localized immunosuppression using biomaterial-based DDS represents an encouraging approach to enhance graft survival and reduce toxic side effects of immunosuppressive drugs in VCA patients. Preclinical models using TAC-releasing DDS have demonstrated high local immunosuppressive effects with a low systemic burden. However, to reduce acute rejection events in translational animal models or in the clinical reality, the use of additional low-dose systemic TAC treatment may be envisaged. Patients may benefit through efficient graft immunosuppression and survival with negligible systemic adverse effects, resulting in better compliance and quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bilal Ben Brahim
- Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Isabel Arenas Hoyos
- Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, Inselspital Bern University Hospital, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Lei Zhang
- Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, Inselspital Bern University Hospital, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Esther Vögelin
- Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, Inselspital Bern University Hospital, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Radu Olariu
- Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, Inselspital Bern University Hospital, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Robert Rieben
- Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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Xiao B, Feturi F, Su AJA, Van der Merwe Y, Barnett JM, Jabbari K, Khatter NJ, Li B, Katzel EB, Venkataramanan R, Solari MG, Wagner WR, Steketee MB, Simons DJ, Washington KM. Nerve Wrap for Local Delivery of FK506/Tacrolimus Accelerates Nerve Regeneration. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:847. [PMID: 38255920 PMCID: PMC10815243 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25020847] [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: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Peripheral nerve injuries (PNIs) occur frequently and can lead to devastating and permanent sensory and motor function disabilities. Systemic tacrolimus (FK506) administration has been shown to hasten recovery and improve functional outcomes after PNI repair. Unfortunately, high systemic levels of FK506 can result in adverse side effects. The localized administration of FK506 could provide the neuroregenerative benefits of FK506 while avoiding systemic, off-target side effects. This study investigates the utility of a novel FK506-impregnated polyester urethane urea (PEUU) nerve wrap to treat PNI in a previously validated rat infraorbital nerve (ION) transection and repair model. ION function was assessed by microelectrode recordings of trigeminal ganglion cells responding to controlled vibrissae deflections in ION-transected and -repaired animals, with and without the nerve wrap. Peristimulus time histograms (PSTHs) having 1 ms bins were constructed from spike times of individual single units. Responses to stimulus onsets (ON responses) were calculated during a 20 ms period beginning 1 ms after deflection onset; this epoch captures the initial, transient phase of the whisker-evoked response. Compared to no-wrap controls, rats with PEUU-FK506 wraps functionally recovered earlier, displaying larger response magnitudes. With nerve wrap treatment, FK506 blood levels up to six weeks were measured nearly at the limit of quantification (LOQ ≥ 2.0 ng/mL); whereas the drug concentrations within the ION and muscle were much higher, demonstrating the local delivery of FK506 to treat PNI. An immunohistological assessment of ION showed increased myelin expression for animals assigned to neurorrhaphy with PEUU-FK506 treatment compared to untreated or systemic-FK506-treated animals, suggesting that improved PNI outcomes using PEUU-FK506 is mediated by the modulation of Schwann cell activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Xiao
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Veterans Administration Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; (B.X.); (F.F.)
| | - Firuz Feturi
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Veterans Administration Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; (B.X.); (F.F.)
| | - An-Jey A. Su
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Veterans Administration Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; (B.X.); (F.F.)
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic Surgery, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | | | - Joshua M. Barnett
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Veterans Administration Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; (B.X.); (F.F.)
| | - Kayvon Jabbari
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic Surgery, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Neil J. Khatter
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic Surgery, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Bing Li
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic Surgery, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Evan B. Katzel
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Veterans Administration Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; (B.X.); (F.F.)
| | | | - Mario G. Solari
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Veterans Administration Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; (B.X.); (F.F.)
| | - William R. Wagner
- McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15219, USA; (W.R.W.); (D.J.S.)
| | - Michael B. Steketee
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Diego, CA 90095, USA
- McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15219, USA; (W.R.W.); (D.J.S.)
| | - Daniel J. Simons
- McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15219, USA; (W.R.W.); (D.J.S.)
| | - Kia M. Washington
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Veterans Administration Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; (B.X.); (F.F.)
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic Surgery, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
- McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15219, USA; (W.R.W.); (D.J.S.)
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Davis B, Wojtalewicz S, Erickson S, Veith J, Simpson A, Sant H, Shea J, Gale B, Agarwal J. Local delivery of FK506 to a nerve allograft is comparable to systemic delivery at suppressing allogeneic graft rejection. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0281911. [PMID: 36881592 PMCID: PMC9990949 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0281911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The objective of this study was to determine if locally delivered FK506 could prevent allogeneic nerve graft rejection long enough to allow axon regeneration to pass through the nerve graft. An 8mm mouse sciatic nerve gap injury repaired with a nerve allograft was used to assess the effectiveness of local FK506 immunosuppressive therapy. FK506-loaded poly(lactide-co-caprolactone) nerve conduits were used to provide sustained local FK506 delivery to nerve allografts. Continuous and temporary systemic FK506 therapy to nerve allografts, and autograft repair were used as control groups. Serial assessment of inflammatory cell and CD4+ cell infiltration into the nerve graft tissue was performed to characterize the immune response over time. Nerve regeneration and functional recovery was serially assessed by nerve histomorphometry, gastrocnemius muscle mass recovery, and the ladder rung skilled locomotion assay. At the end of the study, week 16, all the groups had similar levels of inflammatory cell infiltration. The local FK506 and continuous systemic FK506 groups had similar levels of CD4+ cell infiltration, however, it was significantly greater than the autograft control. In terms of nerve histmorphometry, the local FK506 and continunous systemic FK506 groups had similar amounts of myelinated axons, although they were significantly lower than the autograft and temporary systemic FK506 group. The autograft had significantly greater muscle mass recovery than all the other groups. In the ladder rung assay, the autograft, local FK506, and continuous systemic FK506 had similar levels of skilled locomotion performance, whereas the temporary systemic FK506 group had significanty better performance than all the other groups. The results of this study suggest that local delivery of FK506 can provide comparable immunosuppression and nerve regeneration outcomes as systemically delivered FK506.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brett Davis
- Department of Surgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Susan Wojtalewicz
- Department of Surgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
| | - Sierra Erickson
- Department of Surgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
| | - Jacob Veith
- Department of Surgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
| | - Andrew Simpson
- Department of Surgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
| | - Himanshu Sant
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
| | - Jill Shea
- Department of Surgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
| | - Bruce Gale
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
| | - Jay Agarwal
- Department of Surgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
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Implantable Immunosuppressant Delivery to Prevent Rejection in Transplantation. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23031592. [PMID: 35163514 PMCID: PMC8835747 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
An innovative immunosuppressant with a minimally invasive delivery system has emerged in the biomedical field. The application of biodegradable and biocompatible polymer forms, such as hydrogels, scaffolds, microspheres, and nanoparticles, in transplant recipients to control the release of immunosuppressants can minimize the risk of developing unfavorable conditions. In this review, we summarized several studies that have used implantable immunosuppressant delivery to release therapeutic agents to prolong allograft survival. We also compared their applications, efficacy, efficiency, and safety/side effects with conventional therapeutic-agent administration. Finally, challenges and the future prospective were discussed. Collectively, this review will help relevant readers understand the different approaches to prevent transplant rejection in a new era of therapeutic agent delivery.
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Lellouch AG, Taveau CB, Andrews AR, Molde J, Ng ZY, Tratnig-Frankl P, Rosales IA, Goutard M, Lupon E, Lantieri LA, Colvin RB, Randolph MA, Kohn J, Cetrulo CL. Local FK506 implants in non-human primates to prevent early acute rejection in vascularized composite allografts. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2021; 9:1070. [PMID: 34422982 PMCID: PMC8339839 DOI: 10.21037/atm-21-313] [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: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Background Previous vascularized composite allograft (VCA) studies from our laboratory have shown that topical FK506 delivery in non-human primates (NHPs) was limited by inadequate dermal penetration and rejection persisted. Herein, we report the first utilization of FK506 via subcutaneously implanted discs to mitigate VCA rejection in NHPs. Methods Full major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-mismatched NHP pairs underwent partial-face VCA and FK506 disc implantation along the suture line. All allotransplants were maintained post-operatively for two months on the FK506 discs, methylprednisolone, mycophenolate mofetil, and supplemented with intramuscular FK506 if necessary. Group 1 (n=4) was used for optimization of the implant, while Group 2 (n=3) underwent delayed bone marrow transplantation (DBMT) after two months. VCA skin biopsies and peripheral blood samples were obtained for serial assessment of rejection and mixed chimerism by histopathology and flow cytometry respectively. Results In Group 1, two technical failures occurred. Of the remaining two NHPs, one developed supratherapeutic levels of FK506 (50–120 ng/mL) and had to be euthanized on postoperative day (POD) 12. Reformulation of the implant resulted in stable FK506 levels (20–30 ng/mL) up to POD12 when further intramuscular (IM) FK506 injections were necessitated. In Group 2, two NHPs survived to undergo conditioning and one successfully developed chimerism at 2–3 weeks post-DBMT (96–97% granulocytes and 7–11% lymphocytes of recipient-origin). However, all three NHPs had to be terminated from study at POD64, 77 and 86 due to underlying post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder. All VCAs remained rejection-free up to study endpoint otherwise. Conclusions This study shows preliminary results of local FK506 implants in potentially mitigating VCA acute rejection for tolerance protocols based on mixed chimerism approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre G Lellouch
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Vascularized Composite Allotransplantation Laboratory, Center for Transplantation Sciences, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Service de Chirurgie Plastique, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (APHP), Université Paris Descartes, Paris, France
| | - Corentin B Taveau
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Vascularized Composite Allotransplantation Laboratory, Center for Transplantation Sciences, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Service de Chirurgie Plastique, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (APHP), Université Paris Descartes, Paris, France
| | - Alec R Andrews
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Vascularized Composite Allotransplantation Laboratory, Center for Transplantation Sciences, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Joseph Molde
- Department of Life Sciences, The New Jersey Center for Biomaterials, Rutgers-The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Zhi Yang Ng
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Vascularized Composite Allotransplantation Laboratory, Center for Transplantation Sciences, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Plastic Surgery, School of Surgery, Oxford, UK
| | - Philipp Tratnig-Frankl
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Vascularized Composite Allotransplantation Laboratory, Center for Transplantation Sciences, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Vienna General Hospital, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ivy A Rosales
- MGH Transplant Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Marion Goutard
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Vascularized Composite Allotransplantation Laboratory, Center for Transplantation Sciences, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Service de Chirurgie Plastique, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (APHP), Université Paris Descartes, Paris, France
| | - Elise Lupon
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Vascularized Composite Allotransplantation Laboratory, Center for Transplantation Sciences, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Laurent A Lantieri
- Service de Chirurgie Plastique, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (APHP), Université Paris Descartes, Paris, France
| | - Robert B Colvin
- MGH Transplant Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Mark A Randolph
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Vascularized Composite Allotransplantation Laboratory, Center for Transplantation Sciences, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Joachim Kohn
- Department of Life Sciences, The New Jersey Center for Biomaterials, Rutgers-The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Curtis L Cetrulo
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Vascularized Composite Allotransplantation Laboratory, Center for Transplantation Sciences, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Shriners Hospital for Children, Boston, MA, USA
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10
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Presence of Donor Lymph Nodes Within Vascularized Composite Allotransplantation Ameliorates VEGF-C-mediated Lymphangiogenesis and Delays the Onset of Acute Rejection. Transplantation 2021; 105:1747-1759. [PMID: 34291766 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000003601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The lymphatic system plays an active role in modulating inflammation in autoimmune diseases and organ rejection. In this work, we hypothesized that the transfer of donor lymph node (LN) might be used to promote lymphangiogenesis and influence rejection in vascularized composite allotransplantation (VCA). METHODS Hindlimb transplantations were performed in which (1) recipient rats received VCA containing donor LN (D:LN+), (2) recipient rats received VCA depleted of all donor LN (D:LN-), and (3) D:LN+ transplantations were followed by lymphangiogenesis inhibition using a vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-3 (VEGFR3) blocker. RESULTS Our data show that graft rejection started significantly later in D:LN+ transplanted rats as compared to the D:LN- group. Moreover, we observed a higher level of VEGF-C and a quicker and more efficient lymphangiogenesis in the D:LN+ group as compared to the D:LN- group. The presence of donor LN within the graft was associated with reduced immunoactivation in the draining LN and increased frequency of circulating and skin-resident donor T regulatory cells. Blocking of the VEGF-C pathway using a VEGFR3 blocker disrupts the lymphangiogenesis process, accelerates rejection onset, and interferes with donor T-cell migration. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates that VCA LNs play a pivotal role in the regulation of graft rejection and underlines the potential of specifically targeting the LN component of a VCA to control graft rejection.
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11
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Yi L, Chen Y, Jin Q, Deng C, Wu Y, Li H, Liu T, Li Y, Yang Y, Wang J, Lv Q, Zhang L, Xie M. Antagomir-155 Attenuates Acute Cardiac Rejection Using Ultrasound Targeted Microbubbles Destruction. Adv Healthc Mater 2020; 9:e2000189. [PMID: 32548962 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202000189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2020] [Revised: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Antagomir-155 is an artificial inhibitor of miRNA-155, which is expected to be a promising therapeutic target to attenuate acute cardiac rejection (ACR). However, its vulnerability of being degraded by endogenous nuclease and potential off-target effect make the authors seek for a more suitable way to delivery it. In attribution of efficiency and safety, ultrasound targeted microbubbles destruction (UTMD) turns out to be an appropriate method to deliver gene to target tissues. Here, cationic microbubbles to deliver antagomir-155 downregulating miRNA-155 in murine allograft hearts triggered by UTMD are synthesized. The viability of this therapy is verified by fluorescent microscopy. The biodistribution of antagomir-155 is analyzed by optical imaging system. The results show antagomir-155 delivered by UTMD which significantly decreases the levels of miR-155. Also, this therapy downregulates the expression of cytokines and inflammation infiltration. And allograft survival time is significantly prolonged. Therefore, antagomir-loaded microbubbles trigged by UTMD may provide a novel platform for ACR target treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luyang Yi
- Department of UltrasoundUnion HospitalTongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and Technology 1277 Jiefang Avenue Wuhan 430022 China
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging 13 Hangkong Road Wuhan 430030 China
| | - Yihan Chen
- Department of UltrasoundUnion HospitalTongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and Technology 1277 Jiefang Avenue Wuhan 430022 China
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging 13 Hangkong Road Wuhan 430030 China
| | - Qiaofeng Jin
- Department of UltrasoundUnion HospitalTongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and Technology 1277 Jiefang Avenue Wuhan 430022 China
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging 13 Hangkong Road Wuhan 430030 China
| | - Cheng Deng
- Department of UltrasoundUnion HospitalTongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and Technology 1277 Jiefang Avenue Wuhan 430022 China
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging 13 Hangkong Road Wuhan 430030 China
| | - Ya Wu
- Department of UltrasoundUnion HospitalTongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and Technology 1277 Jiefang Avenue Wuhan 430022 China
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging 13 Hangkong Road Wuhan 430030 China
| | - Huiling Li
- Department of UltrasoundUnion HospitalTongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and Technology 1277 Jiefang Avenue Wuhan 430022 China
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging 13 Hangkong Road Wuhan 430030 China
| | - Tianshu Liu
- Department of UltrasoundUnion HospitalTongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and Technology 1277 Jiefang Avenue Wuhan 430022 China
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging 13 Hangkong Road Wuhan 430030 China
| | - Yuman Li
- Department of UltrasoundUnion HospitalTongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and Technology 1277 Jiefang Avenue Wuhan 430022 China
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging 13 Hangkong Road Wuhan 430030 China
| | - Yali Yang
- Department of UltrasoundUnion HospitalTongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and Technology 1277 Jiefang Avenue Wuhan 430022 China
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging 13 Hangkong Road Wuhan 430030 China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of UltrasoundUnion HospitalTongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and Technology 1277 Jiefang Avenue Wuhan 430022 China
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging 13 Hangkong Road Wuhan 430030 China
| | - Qing Lv
- Department of UltrasoundUnion HospitalTongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and Technology 1277 Jiefang Avenue Wuhan 430022 China
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging 13 Hangkong Road Wuhan 430030 China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of UltrasoundUnion HospitalTongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and Technology 1277 Jiefang Avenue Wuhan 430022 China
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging 13 Hangkong Road Wuhan 430030 China
| | - Mingxing Xie
- Department of UltrasoundUnion HospitalTongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and Technology 1277 Jiefang Avenue Wuhan 430022 China
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging 13 Hangkong Road Wuhan 430030 China
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12
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Sutter D, Dzhonova DV, Prost JC, Bovet C, Banz Y, Rahnfeld L, Leroux JC, Rieben R, Vögelin E, Plock JA, Luciani P, Taddeo A, Schnider JT. Delivery of Rapamycin Using In Situ Forming Implants Promotes Immunoregulation and Vascularized Composite Allograft Survival. Sci Rep 2019; 9:9269. [PMID: 31239498 PMCID: PMC6592945 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-45759-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2018] [Accepted: 06/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Vascularized composite allotransplantation (VCA), such as hand and face transplantation, is emerging as a potential solution in patients that suffered severe injuries. However, adverse effects of chronic high-dose immunosuppression regimens strongly limit the access to these procedures. In this study, we developed an in situ forming implant (ISFI) loaded with rapamycin to promote VCA acceptance. We hypothesized that the sustained delivery of low-dose rapamycin in proximity to the graft may promote graft survival and induce an immunoregulatory microenvironment, boosting the expansion of T regulatory cells (Treg). In vitro and in vivo analysis of rapamycin-loaded ISFI (Rapa-ISFI) showed sustained drug release with subtherapeutic systemic levels and persistent tissue levels. A single injection of Rapa-ISFI in the groin on the same side as a transplanted limb significantly prolonged VCA survival. Moreover, treatment with Rapa-ISFI increased the levels of multilineage mixed chimerism and the frequency of Treg both in the circulation and VCA-skin. Our study shows that Rapa-ISFI therapy represents a promising approach for minimizing immunosuppression, decreasing toxicity and increasing patient compliance. Importantly, the use of such a delivery system may favor the reprogramming of allogeneic responses towards a regulatory function in VCA and, potentially, in other transplants and inflammatory conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damian Sutter
- Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | | | - Jean-Christophe Prost
- University Institute of Clinical Chemistry, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Cedric Bovet
- University Institute of Clinical Chemistry, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Yara Banz
- Institute of Pathology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Lisa Rahnfeld
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Institute of Pharmacy, University of Jena, Jena, Germany.,Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Jean-Christophe Leroux
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, ETH Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Robert Rieben
- Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Esther Vögelin
- Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Jan A Plock
- Department of Plastic Surgery and Hand Surgery, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zürich, Switzerland.
| | - Paola Luciani
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Institute of Pharmacy, University of Jena, Jena, Germany. .,Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, ETH Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland. .,Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.
| | - Adriano Taddeo
- Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland. .,Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.
| | - Jonas T Schnider
- Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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13
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Dzhonova D, Olariu R, Leckenby J, Dhayani A, Vemula PK, Prost JC, Banz Y, Taddeo A, Rieben R. Local release of tacrolimus from hydrogel-based drug delivery system is controlled by inflammatory enzymes in vivo and can be monitored non-invasively using in vivo imaging. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0203409. [PMID: 30161258 PMCID: PMC6117083 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0203409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2018] [Accepted: 08/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Local drug delivery systems that adjust the release of immunosuppressive drug in response to the nature and intensity of inflammation represent a promising approach to reduce systemic immunosuppression and its side effects in allotransplantation. Here we aimed to demonstrate that release of tacrolimus from triglycerol monostearate hydrogel is inflammation-dependent in vivo. We further report that by loading the hydrogel with a near-infrared dye, it is possible to monitor drug release non-invasively in an in vivo model of vascularized composite allotransplantation. MATERIALS AND METHODS Inflammation was induced by local challenge with lipopolysaccharides in naïve rats 7 days after injection of tacrolimus-loaded hydrogel in the hind limb. Tacrolimus levels in blood and tissues were measured at selected time points. A near-infrared dye was encapsulated in the hydrogel together with tacrolimus in order to monitor hydrogel deposits and drug release in vitro and in vivo in a model of vascularized composite allotransplantation. RESULTS Injection of lipopolysaccharides led to increased blood and skin tacrolimus levels (p = 0.0076, day 7 vs. day 12 in blood, and p = 0.0007 in treated limbs, 48 h after injection compared to controls). Moreover, lipopolysaccharides-injected animals had higher tacrolimus levels in treated limbs compared to contralateral limbs (p = 0.0003 for skin and p = 0.0053 for muscle). Imaging of hydrogel deposits and tacrolimus release was achieved by encapsulating near-infrared dye in the hydrogel for 160 days. The correlation of tacrolimus and near-infrared dye release from hydrogel was R2 = 0.6297 and R2 = 0.5619 in blood and grafts of transplanted animals respectively and R2 = 0.6066 in vitro. CONCLUSIONS Here we demonstrate the inflammation-responsiveness of a tacrolimus-loaded hydrogel in vivo. Moreover, we show that encapsulating a near-infrared dye in the hydrogel provides a reliable correlation of tacrolimus and dye release from the hydrogel, and an accessible non-invasive method for monitoring drug release from hydrogel deposits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dzhuliya Dzhonova
- Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Graduate School for Cellular and Biomedical Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Radu Olariu
- Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Jonathan Leckenby
- Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Ashish Dhayani
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Bangalore, India
- The School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA University, Tamil Nadu, India
| | | | - Jean-Christophe Prost
- Center of Laboratory Medicine, University Institute of Clinical Chemistry, University Hospital, Switzerland
| | - Yara Banz
- Institute of Pathology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Adriano Taddeo
- Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Robert Rieben
- Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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