1
|
Evans MM, Liu S, Krautner JS, Seguin CG, Leung R, Ronald JA. Evaluation of DNA minicircles for delivery of adenine and cytosine base editors using activatable gene on "GO" reporter imaging systems. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2024; 35:102248. [PMID: 39040503 PMCID: PMC11260848 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2024.102248] [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: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024]
Abstract
Over 30,000 point mutations are associated with debilitating diseases, including many cancer types, underscoring a critical need for targeted genomic solutions. CRISPR base editors, like adenine base editors (ABEs) and cytosine base editors (CBEs), enable precise modifications by converting adenine to guanine and cytosine to thymine, respectively. Challenges in efficiency and safety concerns regarding viral vectors used in delivery limit the scope of base editing. This study introduces non-viral minicircles, bacterial-backbone-free plasmids, as a delivery vehicle for ABEs and CBEs. The research uses cells engineered with the "Gene On" (GO) reporter gene systems for tracking minicircle-delivered ABEs, CBEs, or Cas9 nickase (control), using green fluorescent protein (GFPGO), bioluminescence reporter firefly luciferase (LUCGO), or a highly sensitive Akaluciferase (AkalucGO) designed in this study. The results show that transfection of minicircles expressing CBE or ABE resulted in significantly higher GFP expression and luminescence signals over controls, with minicircles demonstrating the most substantial editing. This study presents minicircles as a new strategy for base editor delivery and develops an enhanced bioluminescence imaging reporter system for tracking ABE activity. Future studies aim to evaluate the use of minicircles in preclinical cancer models, facilitating potential clinical applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melissa M. Evans
- Robarts Research Institute, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
- Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Shirley Liu
- Robarts Research Institute, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
- Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Joshua S. Krautner
- Robarts Research Institute, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
- Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Caroline G. Seguin
- Robarts Research Institute, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
| | - Rajan Leung
- Robarts Research Institute, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
- Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - John A. Ronald
- Robarts Research Institute, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
- Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON N6C 2R5, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Liu F, Li R, Zhu Z, Yang Y, Lu F. Current developments of gene therapy in human diseases. MedComm (Beijing) 2024; 5:e645. [PMID: 39156766 PMCID: PMC11329757 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.645] [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: 09/10/2023] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 08/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Gene therapy has witnessed substantial advancements in recent years, becoming a constructive tactic for treating various human diseases. This review presents a comprehensive overview of these developments, with a focus on their diverse applications in different disease contexts. It explores the evolution of gene delivery systems, encompassing viral (like adeno-associated virus; AAV) and nonviral approaches, and evaluates their inherent strengths and limitations. Moreover, the review delves into the progress made in targeting specific tissues and cell types, spanning the eye, liver, muscles, and central nervous system, among others, using these gene technologies. This targeted approach is crucial in addressing a broad spectrum of genetic disorders, such as inherited lysosomal storage diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, and cardiovascular diseases. Recent clinical trials and successful outcomes in gene therapy, particularly those involving AAV and the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-CRISPR-associated proteins, are highlighted, illuminating the transformative potentials of this approach in disease treatment. The review summarizes the current status of gene therapy, its prospects, and its capacity to significantly ameliorate patient outcomes and quality of life. By offering comprehensive analysis, this review provides invaluable insights for researchers, clinicians, and stakeholders, enriching the ongoing discourse on the trajectory of disease treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fanfei Liu
- Department of OphthalmologyWest China HospitalChengduSichuanChina
| | - Ruiting Li
- State Key Laboratory of BiotherapyWest China HospitalChengduSichuanChina
| | - Zilin Zhu
- College of Life SciencesSichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Yang Yang
- Department of OphthalmologyWest China HospitalChengduSichuanChina
- State Key Laboratory of BiotherapyWest China HospitalChengduSichuanChina
| | - Fang Lu
- Department of OphthalmologyWest China HospitalChengduSichuanChina
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Tonetto E, Cucci A, Follenzi A, Bernardi F, Pinotti M, Balestra D. DNA base editing corrects common hemophilia A mutations and restores factor VIII expression in in vitro and ex vivo models. J Thromb Haemost 2024; 22:2171-2183. [PMID: 38718928 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtha.2024.04.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Replacement and nonreplacement therapies effectively control bleeding in hemophilia A (HA) but imply lifelong interventions. Authorized gene addition therapy could provide a cure but still poses questions on durability. FVIIIgene correction would definitively restore factor (F)VIII production, as shown in animal models through nuclease-mediated homologous recombination (HR). However, low efficiency and potential off-target double-strand break still limit HR translatability. OBJECTIVES To correct common model single point mutations leading to severe HA through the recently developed double-strand break/HR-independent base editing (BE) and prime editing (PE) approaches. METHODS Screening for efficacy of BE/PE systems in HEK293T cells transiently expressing FVIII variants and validation at DNA (sequencing) and protein (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay; activated partial thromboplastin time) level in stable clones. Evaluation of rescue in engineered blood outgrowth endothelial cells by lentiviral-mediated delivery of BE. RESULTS Transient assays identified the best-performing BE/PE systems for each variant, with the highest rescue of FVIII expression (up to 25% of wild-type recombinant FVIII) for the p.R2166∗ and p.R2228Q mutations. In stable clones, we demonstrated that the mutation reversion on DNA (∼24%) was consistent with the rescue of FVIII secretion and activity of 20% to 30%. The lentiviral-mediated delivery of the selected BE systems was attempted in engineered blood outgrowth endothelial cells harboring the p.R2166∗ and p.R2228Q variants, which led to an appreciable and dose-dependent rescue of secreted functional FVIII. CONCLUSION Overall data provide the first proof-of-concept for effective BE/PE-mediated correction of HA-causing mutations, which encourage studies in mouse models to develop a personalized cure for large cohorts of patients through a single intervention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elena Tonetto
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology and Laboratorio per le Tecnologie delle Terapie Avanzate (LTTA), University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Alessia Cucci
- Department of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Antonia Follenzi
- Department of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Francesco Bernardi
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology and Laboratorio per le Tecnologie delle Terapie Avanzate (LTTA), University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Mirko Pinotti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology and Laboratorio per le Tecnologie delle Terapie Avanzate (LTTA), University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Dario Balestra
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology and Laboratorio per le Tecnologie delle Terapie Avanzate (LTTA), University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Kulbay M, Tuli N, Akdag A, Kahn Ali S, Qian CX. Optogenetics and Targeted Gene Therapy for Retinal Diseases: Unravelling the Fundamentals, Applications, and Future Perspectives. J Clin Med 2024; 13:4224. [PMID: 39064263 PMCID: PMC11277578 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13144224] [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: 06/18/2024] [Revised: 07/15/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
With a common aim of restoring physiological function of defective cells, optogenetics and targeted gene therapies have shown great clinical potential and novelty in the branch of personalized medicine and inherited retinal diseases (IRDs). The basis of optogenetics aims to bypass defective photoreceptors by introducing opsins with light-sensing capabilities. In contrast, targeted gene therapies, such as methods based on CRISPR-Cas9 and RNA interference with noncoding RNAs (i.e., microRNA, small interfering RNA, short hairpin RNA), consists of inducing normal gene or protein expression into affected cells. Having partially leveraged the challenges limiting their prompt introduction into the clinical practice (i.e., engineering, cell or tissue delivery capabilities), it is crucial to deepen the fields of knowledge applied to optogenetics and targeted gene therapy. The aim of this in-depth and novel literature review is to explain the fundamentals and applications of optogenetics and targeted gene therapies, while providing decision-making arguments for ophthalmologists. First, we review the biomolecular principles and engineering steps involved in optogenetics and the targeted gene therapies mentioned above by bringing a focus on the specific vectors and molecules for cell signalization. The importance of vector choice and engineering methods are discussed. Second, we summarize the ongoing clinical trials and most recent discoveries for optogenetics and targeted gene therapies for IRDs. Finally, we then discuss the limits and current challenges of each novel therapy. We aim to provide for the first time scientific-based explanations for clinicians to justify the specificity of each therapy for one disease, which can help improve clinical decision-making tasks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Merve Kulbay
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4A 3S5, Canada;
| | - Nicolas Tuli
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3G 2M1, Canada (A.A.)
| | - Arjin Akdag
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3G 2M1, Canada (A.A.)
| | - Shigufa Kahn Ali
- Centre de Recherche de l’Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC H1T 2M4, Canada;
| | - Cynthia X. Qian
- Centre de Recherche de l’Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC H1T 2M4, Canada;
- Department of Ophthalmology, Centre Universitaire d’Ophtalmologie (CUO), Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC H1T 2M4, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Liu Y, Kong J, Liu G, Li Z, Xiao Y. Precise Gene Knock-In Tools with Minimized Risk of DSBs: A Trend for Gene Manipulation. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2401797. [PMID: 38728624 PMCID: PMC11267366 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202401797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
Gene knock-in refers to the insertion of exogenous functional genes into a target genome to achieve continuous expression. Currently, most knock-in tools are based on site-directed nucleases, which can induce double-strand breaks (DSBs) at the target, following which the designed donors carrying functional genes can be inserted via the endogenous gene repair pathway. The size of donor genes is limited by the characteristics of gene repair, and the DSBs induce risks like genotoxicity. New generation tools, such as prime editing, transposase, and integrase, can insert larger gene fragments while minimizing or eliminating the risk of DSBs, opening new avenues in the development of animal models and gene therapy. However, the elimination of off-target events and the production of delivery carriers with precise requirements remain challenging, restricting the application of the current knock-in treatments to mainly in vitro settings. Here, a comprehensive review of the knock-in tools that do not/minimally rely on DSBs and use other mechanisms is provided. Moreover, the challenges and recent advances of in vivo knock-in treatments in terms of the therapeutic process is discussed. Collectively, the new generation of DSBs-minimizing and large-fragment knock-in tools has revolutionized the field of gene editing, from basic research to clinical treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yongfeng Liu
- Department of PharmacologySchool of PharmacyChina Pharmaceutical UniversityNanjing210009China
- State Key Laboratory of Natural MedicinesChina Pharmaceutical UniversityNanjing210009China
- Mudi Meng Honors CollegeChina Pharmaceutical UniversityNanjing210009China
| | - Jianping Kong
- Department of PharmacologySchool of PharmacyChina Pharmaceutical UniversityNanjing210009China
- State Key Laboratory of Natural MedicinesChina Pharmaceutical UniversityNanjing210009China
| | - Gongyu Liu
- Department of PharmacologySchool of PharmacyChina Pharmaceutical UniversityNanjing210009China
- State Key Laboratory of Natural MedicinesChina Pharmaceutical UniversityNanjing210009China
| | - Zhaoxing Li
- Department of PharmacologySchool of PharmacyChina Pharmaceutical UniversityNanjing210009China
- State Key Laboratory of Natural MedicinesChina Pharmaceutical UniversityNanjing210009China
- Chongqing Innovation Institute of China Pharmaceutical UniversityChongqing401135China
| | - Yibei Xiao
- Department of PharmacologySchool of PharmacyChina Pharmaceutical UniversityNanjing210009China
- State Key Laboratory of Natural MedicinesChina Pharmaceutical UniversityNanjing210009China
- Chongqing Innovation Institute of China Pharmaceutical UniversityChongqing401135China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Xu F, Zheng C, Xu W, Zhang S, Liu S, Chen X, Yao K. Breaking genetic shackles: The advance of base editing in genetic disorder treatment. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1364135. [PMID: 38510648 PMCID: PMC10953296 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1364135] [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: 01/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
The rapid evolution of gene editing technology has markedly improved the outlook for treating genetic diseases. Base editing, recognized as an exceptionally precise genetic modification tool, is emerging as a focus in the realm of genetic disease therapy. We provide a comprehensive overview of the fundamental principles and delivery methods of cytosine base editors (CBE), adenine base editors (ABE), and RNA base editors, with a particular focus on their applications and recent research advances in the treatment of genetic diseases. We have also explored the potential challenges faced by base editing technology in treatment, including aspects such as targeting specificity, safety, and efficacy, and have enumerated a series of possible solutions to propel the clinical translation of base editing technology. In conclusion, this article not only underscores the present state of base editing technology but also envisions its tremendous potential in the future, providing a novel perspective on the treatment of genetic diseases. It underscores the vast potential of base editing technology in the realm of genetic medicine, providing support for the progression of gene medicine and the development of innovative approaches to genetic disease therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fang Xu
- Institute of Visual Neuroscience and Stem Cell Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Caiyan Zheng
- Institute of Visual Neuroscience and Stem Cell Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Weihui Xu
- Institute of Visual Neuroscience and Stem Cell Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Shiyao Zhang
- Institute of Visual Neuroscience and Stem Cell Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Shanshan Liu
- Institute of Visual Neuroscience and Stem Cell Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaopeng Chen
- Institute of Visual Neuroscience and Stem Cell Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Kai Yao
- Institute of Visual Neuroscience and Stem Cell Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Lee JM, Zeng J, Liu P, Nguyen MA, Loustaunau DS, Bauer DE, Yilmaz NK, Wolfe SA, Schiffer CA. Direct delivery of stabilized Cas-embedded base editors achieves efficient and accurate editing of clinically relevant targets. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.02.08.579528. [PMID: 38370706 PMCID: PMC10871342 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.08.579528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Over the last 5 years, cytosine base editors (CBEs) have emerged as a promising therapeutic tool for specific editing of single nucleotide variants and disrupting specific genes associated with disease. Despite this promise, the currently available CBE's have the significant liabilities of off-target and bystander editing activities, in part due to the mechanism by which they are delivered, causing limitations in their potential applications. In this study we engineeredhighly stabilized Cas-embedded CBEs (sCE_CBEs) that integrate several recent advances, andthat are highly expressible and soluble for direct delivery into cells as ribonucleoprotein (RNP) complexes. Our resulting sCE_CBE RNP complexes efficiently and specifically target TC dinucleotides with minimal off-target or bystander mutations. Additional uracil glycosylase inhibitor (UGI) protein in trans further increased C-to-T editing efficiency and target purity in a dose-dependent manner, minimizing indel formation to untreated levels. A single electroporation was sufficient to effectively edit the therapeutically relevant locus for sickle cell disease in hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPC) in a dose dependent manner without cellular toxicity. Significantly, these sCE_CBE RNPs permitted for the transplantation of edited HSPCs confirming highly efficient editing in engrafting hematopoietic stem cells in mice. The success of the designed sCBE editors, with improved solubility and enhanced on-target editing, demonstrates promising agents for cytosine base editing at other disease-related sites in HSPCs and other cell types.
Collapse
|
9
|
Zhang Y, Wu ZY. Gene therapy for monogenic disorders: challenges, strategies, and perspectives. J Genet Genomics 2024; 51:133-143. [PMID: 37586590 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgg.2023.08.001] [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: 06/03/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
Monogenic disorders refer to a group of human diseases caused by mutations in single genes. While disease-modifying therapies have offered some relief from symptoms and delayed progression for some monogenic diseases, most of these diseases still lack effective treatments. In recent decades, gene therapy has emerged as a promising therapeutic strategy for genetic disorders. Researchers have developed various gene manipulation tools and gene delivery systems to treat monogenic diseases. Despite this progress, concerns about inefficient delivery, persistent expression, immunogenicity, toxicity, capacity limitation, genomic integration, and limited tissue specificity still need to be addressed. This review gives an overview of commonly used gene therapy and delivery tools, along with the challenges they face and potential strategies to counter them.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yi Zhang
- Department of Medical Genetics and Center for Rare Diseases, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310009, China; Department of Neurology, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310009, China; Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310009, China
| | - Zhi-Ying Wu
- Department of Medical Genetics and Center for Rare Diseases, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310009, China; Department of Neurology, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310009, China; Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310009, China.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Chan A, Tsourkas A. Intracellular Protein Delivery: Approaches, Challenges, and Clinical Applications. BME FRONTIERS 2024; 5:0035. [PMID: 38282957 PMCID: PMC10809898 DOI: 10.34133/bmef.0035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Protein biologics are powerful therapeutic agents with diverse inhibitory and enzymatic functions. However, their clinical use has been limited to extracellular applications due to their inability to cross plasma membranes. Overcoming this physiological barrier would unlock the potential of protein drugs for the treatment of many intractable diseases. In this review, we highlight progress made toward achieving cytosolic delivery of recombinant proteins. We start by first considering intracellular protein delivery as a drug modality compared to existing Food and Drug Administration-approved drug modalities. Then, we summarize strategies that have been reported to achieve protein internalization. These techniques can be broadly classified into 3 categories: physical methods, direct protein engineering, and nanocarrier-mediated delivery. Finally, we highlight existing challenges for cytosolic protein delivery and offer an outlook for future advances.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Andrew Tsourkas
- Department of Bioengineering,
University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Khoshandam M, Soltaninejad H, Mousazadeh M, Hamidieh AA, Hosseinkhani S. Clinical applications of the CRISPR/Cas9 genome-editing system: Delivery options and challenges in precision medicine. Genes Dis 2024; 11:268-282. [PMID: 37588217 PMCID: PMC10425811 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2023.02.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
CRISPR/Cas9 is an effective gene editing tool with broad applications for the prevention or treatment of numerous diseases. It depends on CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats) as a bacterial immune system and plays as a gene editing tool. Due to the higher specificity and efficiency of CRISPR/Cas9 compared to other editing approaches, it has been broadly investigated to treat numerous hereditary and acquired illnesses, including cancers, hemolytic diseases, immunodeficiency disorders, cardiovascular diseases, visual maladies, neurodegenerative conditions, and a few X-linked disorders. CRISPR/Cas9 system has been used to treat cancers through a variety of approaches, with stable gene editing techniques. Here, the applications and clinical trials of CRISPR/Cas9 in various illnesses are described. Due to its high precision and efficiency, CRISPR/Cas9 strategies may treat gene-related illnesses by deleting, inserting, modifying, or blocking the expression of specific genes. The most challenging barrier to the in vivo use of CRISPR/Cas9 like off-target effects will be discussed. The use of transfection vehicles for CRISPR/Cas9, including viral vectors (such as an Adeno-associated virus (AAV)), and the development of non-viral vectors is also considered.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohadeseh Khoshandam
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Academic Center for Education, Culture, and Research (ACECR), Qom Branch, Qom 3716986466, Iran
- National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (NIGEB), Tehran 14155-6463, Iran
| | - Hossein Soltaninejad
- Faculty of Interdisciplinary Science and Technology, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran 14117-13116, Iran
- Pediatric Cell and Gene Therapy Research Center, Gene, Cell & Tissue Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 14155-6559, Iran
| | - Marziyeh Mousazadeh
- Department of Nanobiotechnology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran 14117-13116, Iran
| | - Amir Ali Hamidieh
- Pediatric Cell and Gene Therapy Research Center, Gene, Cell & Tissue Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 14155-6559, Iran
| | - Saman Hosseinkhani
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran 14117-13116, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Wang Z, Yuan H, Yang L, Ma L, Zhang Y, Deng J, Li X, Xiao W, Li Z, Qiu J, Ouyang H, Pang D. Decreasing predictable DNA off-target effects and narrowing editing windows of adenine base editors by fusing human Rad18 protein variant. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 253:127418. [PMID: 37848112 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.127418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023]
Abstract
Adenine base editors, enabling targeted A-to-G conversion in genomic DNA, have enormous potential in therapeutic applications. However, the currently used adenine base editors are limited by wide editing windows and off-target effects in genetic therapy. Here, we report human e18 protein, a RING type E3 ubiquitin ligase variant, fusing with adenine base editors can significantly improve the preciseness and narrow the editing windows compared with ABEmax and ABE8e by diminishing the abundance of base editor protein. As a proof of concept, ABEmax-e18 and ABE8e-e18 dramatically decrease Cas9-dependent and Cas9-independent off-target effects than traditional adenine base editors. Moreover, we utilized ABEmax-e18 to establish syndactyly mouse models and achieve accurate base conversion at human PCSK9 locus in HepG2 cells which exhibited its potential in genetic therapy. Furthermore, a truncated version of base editors-RING (ABEmax-RING or AncBE4max-RING), which fusing the 63 amino acids of e18 protein RING domain to the C terminal of ABEmax or AncBE4max, exhibited similar effect compared to ABEmax-e18 or AncBE4max-e18.In summary, the e18 or RING protein fused with base editors strengthens the precise toolbox in gene modification and maybe works well with various base editing tools with a more applicable to precise genetic therapies in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ziru Wang
- College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Hongming Yuan
- College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China; Chongqing Research Institute, Jilin University, Chongqing 401123, China; Chongqing Jitang Biotechnology Research Institute, Chongqing 401123, China.
| | - Lin Yang
- College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Lerong Ma
- College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Yuanzhu Zhang
- College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Jiacheng Deng
- College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Xueyuan Li
- College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Wenyu Xiao
- College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Zhanjun Li
- College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Jiazhang Qiu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Hongsheng Ouyang
- College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China; Chongqing Research Institute, Jilin University, Chongqing 401123, China; Chongqing Jitang Biotechnology Research Institute, Chongqing 401123, China.
| | - Daxin Pang
- College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China; Chongqing Research Institute, Jilin University, Chongqing 401123, China; Chongqing Jitang Biotechnology Research Institute, Chongqing 401123, China.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Woodruff R, Parekh F, Lamb K, Mekkaoui L, Allen C, Smetanova K, Huang J, Williams A, Toledo GS, Lilova K, Roddie C, Sillibourne J, Pule M. Large-scale manufacturing of base-edited chimeric antigen receptor T cells. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2023; 31:101123. [PMID: 37886606 PMCID: PMC10597784 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2023.101123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
Base editing is a revolutionary gene-editing technique enabling the introduction of point mutations into the genome without generating detrimental DNA double-stranded breaks. Base-editing enzymes are commonly delivered in the form of modified linear messenger RNA (mRNA) that is costly to produce. Here, we address this problem by developing a simple protocol for manufacturing base-edited cells using circular RNA (circRNA), which is less expensive to synthesize. Compared with linear mRNA, higher editing efficiencies were achieved with circRNA, enabling an 8-fold reduction in the amount of RNA required. We used this protocol to manufacture a clinical dose (1 × 108 cells) of base-edited chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells lacking expression of the inhibitory receptor, PD-1. Editing efficiencies of up to 86% were obtained using 0.25 μg circRNA/1 × 106 cells. Increased editing efficiencies with circRNA were attributed to more efficient translation. These results suggest that circRNA, which is less expensive to produce than linear mRNA, is a viable option for reducing the cost of manufacturing base-edited cells at scale.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rosie Woodruff
- Autolus Therapeutics, The Mediaworks, 191 Wood Lane, W12 7FP London, UK
| | - Farhaan Parekh
- Autolus Therapeutics, The Mediaworks, 191 Wood Lane, W12 7FP London, UK
| | - Katarina Lamb
- Autolus Therapeutics, The Mediaworks, 191 Wood Lane, W12 7FP London, UK
| | - Leila Mekkaoui
- Autolus Therapeutics, The Mediaworks, 191 Wood Lane, W12 7FP London, UK
| | - Christopher Allen
- Autolus Therapeutics, The Mediaworks, 191 Wood Lane, W12 7FP London, UK
| | | | - Jasmine Huang
- Imperial College London, South Kensington Campus, SW7 2AZ London, UK
| | - Alex Williams
- Autolus Therapeutics, The Mediaworks, 191 Wood Lane, W12 7FP London, UK
| | | | - Koki Lilova
- Autolus Therapeutics, The Mediaworks, 191 Wood Lane, W12 7FP London, UK
| | - Claire Roddie
- Deparment of Haematology, Cancer Institute, 72 Huntley Street, WC1E 6BT London, UK
| | - James Sillibourne
- Autolus Therapeutics, The Mediaworks, 191 Wood Lane, W12 7FP London, UK
| | - Martin Pule
- Autolus Therapeutics, The Mediaworks, 191 Wood Lane, W12 7FP London, UK
- Deparment of Haematology, Cancer Institute, 72 Huntley Street, WC1E 6BT London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Finocchio L, Zeppieri M, Gabai A, Toneatto G, Spadea L, Salati C. Recent Developments in Gene Therapy for Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration: A Review. Biomedicines 2023; 11:3221. [PMID: 38137442 PMCID: PMC10740940 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11123221] [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: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a complex and multifactorial disease and a leading cause of irreversible blindness in the elderly population. The anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) therapy has revolutionized the management and prognosis of neovascular AMD (nAMD) and is currently the standard of care for this disease. However, patients are required to receive repeated injections, imposing substantial social and economic burdens. The implementation of gene therapy methods to achieve sustained delivery of various therapeutic proteins holds the promise of a single treatment that could ameliorate the treatment challenges associated with chronic intravitreal therapy, and potentially improve visual outcomes. Several early-phase trials are currently underway, evaluating the safety and efficacy of gene therapy for nAMD; however, areas of controversy persist, including the therapeutic target, route of administration, and potential safety issues. In this review, we assess the evolution of gene therapy for nAMD and summarize several preclinical and early-stage clinical trials, exploring challenges and future directions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Finocchio
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Marco Zeppieri
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Andrea Gabai
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Giacomo Toneatto
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Leopoldo Spadea
- Eye Clinic, Policlinico Umberto I, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00142 Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo Salati
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Carvalho C, Lemos L, Antas P, Seabra MC. Gene therapy for inherited retinal diseases: exploiting new tools in genome editing and nanotechnology. FRONTIERS IN OPHTHALMOLOGY 2023; 3:1270561. [PMID: 38983081 PMCID: PMC11182192 DOI: 10.3389/fopht.2023.1270561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
Inherited retinal diseases (IRDs) encompass a diverse group of genetic disorders that lead to progressive visual impairment and blindness. Over the years, considerable strides have been made in understanding the underlying molecular mechanisms of IRDs, laying the foundation for novel therapeutic interventions. Gene therapy has emerged as a compelling approach for treating IRDs, with notable advancements achieved through targeted gene augmentation. However, several setbacks and limitations persist, hindering the widespread clinical success of gene therapy for IRDs. One promising avenue of research is the development of new genome editing tools. Cutting-edge technologies such as CRISPR-Cas9 nucleases, base editing and prime editing provide unprecedented precision and efficiency in targeted gene manipulation, offering the potential to overcome existing challenges in gene therapy for IRDs. Furthermore, traditional gene therapy encounters a significant challenge due to immune responses to viral vectors, which remain crucial obstacles in achieving long-lasting therapeutic effects. Nanotechnology has emerged as a valuable ally in the quest to optimize gene therapy outcomes for ocular diseases. Nanoparticles engineered with nanoscale precision offer improved gene delivery to specific retinal cells, allowing for enhanced targeting and reduced immunogenicity. In this review, we discuss recent advancements in gene therapy for IRDs and explore the setbacks that have been encountered in clinical trials. We highlight the technological advances in genome editing for the treatment of IRDs and how integrating nanotechnology into gene delivery strategies could enhance the safety and efficacy of gene therapy, ultimately offering hope for patients with IRDs and potentially paving the way for similar advancements in other ocular disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cláudia Carvalho
- iNOVA4Health, NOVA Medical School | Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, NMS | FCM, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Luísa Lemos
- Champalimaud Research, Champalimaud Foundation, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Pedro Antas
- iNOVA4Health, NOVA Medical School | Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, NMS | FCM, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
- Champalimaud Research, Champalimaud Foundation, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Miguel C Seabra
- iNOVA4Health, NOVA Medical School | Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, NMS | FCM, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
- Champalimaud Research, Champalimaud Foundation, Lisboa, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Murugesan R, Karuppusamy KV, Marepally S, Thangavel S. Current approaches and potential challenges in the delivery of gene editing cargos into hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells. Front Genome Ed 2023; 5:1148693. [PMID: 37780116 PMCID: PMC10540692 DOI: 10.3389/fgeed.2023.1148693] [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: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Advancements in gene delivery and editing have expanded the applications of autologous hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) for the treatment of monogenic and acquired diseases. The gene editing toolbox is growing, and the ability to achieve gene editing with mRNA or protein delivered intracellularly by vehicles, such as electroporation and nanoparticles, has highlighted the potential of gene editing in HSPCs. Ongoing phase I/II clinical trials with gene-edited HSPCs for β-hemoglobinopathies provide hope for treating monogenic diseases. The development of safe and efficient gene editing reagents and their delivery into hard-to-transfect HSPCs have been critical drivers in the rapid translation of HSPC gene editing into clinical studies. This review article summarizes the available payloads and delivery vehicles for gene editing HSPCs and their potential impact on therapeutic applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ramya Murugesan
- Centre for Stem Cell Research (CSCR), A Unit of InStem Bengaluru, Christian Medical College Campus, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
- Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Karthik V. Karuppusamy
- Centre for Stem Cell Research (CSCR), A Unit of InStem Bengaluru, Christian Medical College Campus, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
- Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Srujan Marepally
- Centre for Stem Cell Research (CSCR), A Unit of InStem Bengaluru, Christian Medical College Campus, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Saravanabhavan Thangavel
- Centre for Stem Cell Research (CSCR), A Unit of InStem Bengaluru, Christian Medical College Campus, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Chen X, McAndrew MJ, Lapinaite A. Unlocking the secrets of ABEs: the molecular mechanism behind their specificity. Biochem Soc Trans 2023; 51:1635-1646. [PMID: 37526140 PMCID: PMC10586758 DOI: 10.1042/bst20221508] [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: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023]
Abstract
CRISPR-Cas, the bacterial immune systems, have transformed the field of genome editing by providing efficient, easily programmable, and accessible tools for targeted genome editing. DNA base editors (BE) are state-of-the-art CRISPR-based technology, allowing for targeted modifications of individual nucleobases within the genome. Among the BEs, adenine base editors (ABEs) have shown great potential due to their ability to convert A-to-G with high efficiency. However, current ABEs have limitations in terms of their specificity and targeting range. In this review, we provide an overview of the molecular mechanism of ABEs, with a focus on the mechanism of deoxyadenosine deamination by evolved tRNA-specific adenosine deaminase (TadA). We discuss how mutations and adjustments introduced via both directed evolution as well as rational design have improved ABE efficiency and specificity. This review offers insights into the molecular mechanism of ABEs, providing a roadmap for future developments in the precision genome editing field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyu Chen
- School of Molecular Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, U.S.A
| | | | - Audrone Lapinaite
- School of Molecular Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, U.S.A
- Arizona State University-Banner Neurodegenerative Disease Research Center at the Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, U.S.A
- Center for Molecular Design and Biomimetics, The Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, U.S.A
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Adair BA, Korecki AJ, Djaksigulova D, Wagner PK, Chiu NY, Lam SL, Lengyell TC, Leavitt BR, Simpson EM. ABE8e Corrects Pax6-Aniridic Variant in Humanized Mouse ESCs and via LNPs in Ex Vivo Cortical Neurons. Ophthalmol Ther 2023; 12:2049-2068. [PMID: 37210469 PMCID: PMC10287867 DOI: 10.1007/s40123-023-00729-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/22/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Aniridia is a rare congenital vision-loss disease caused by heterozygous variants in the PAX6 gene. There is no vision-saving therapy, but one exciting approach is to use CRISPR/Cas9 to permanently correct the causal genomic variants. Preclinical studies to develop such a therapy in animal models face the challenge of showing efficacy when binding human DNA. Thus, we hypothesized that a CRISPR gene therapy can be developed and optimized in humanized mouse embryonic stem cells (ESCs) that will be able to distinguish between an aniridia patient variant and nonvariant chromosome and lay the foundation for human therapy. METHODS To answer the challenge of binding human DNA, we proposed the "CRISPR Humanized Minimally Mouse Models" (CHuMMMs) strategy. Thus, we minimally humanized Pax6 exon 9, the location of the most common aniridia variant c.718C > T. We generated and characterized a nonvariant CHuMMMs mouse, and a CHuMMMs cell-based disease model, in which we tested five CRISPR enzymes for therapeutic efficacy. We then delivered the therapy via lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) to alter a second variant in ex vivo cortical primary neurons. RESULTS We successfully established a nonvariant CHuMMMs mouse and three novel CHuMMMs aniridia cell lines. We showed that humanization did not disrupt Pax6 function in vivo, as the mouse showed no ocular phenotype. We developed and optimized a CRISPR therapeutic strategy for aniridia in the in vitro system, and found that the base editor, ABE8e, had the highest correction of the patient variant at 76.8%. In the ex vivo system, the LNP-encapsulated ABE8e ribonucleoprotein (RNP) complex altered the second patient variant and rescued 24.8% Pax6 protein expression. CONCLUSION We demonstrated the usefulness of the CHuMMMs approach, and showed the first genomic editing by ABE8e encapsulated as an LNP-RNP. Furthermore, we laid the foundation for translation of the proposed CRISPR therapy to preclinical mouse studies and eventually patients with aniridia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bethany A Adair
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics at British Columbia Children's Hospital, The University of British Columbia, 950 West 28th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4H4, Canada
- Department of Medical Genetics, The University of British Columbia, 950 West 28th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4H4, Canada
| | - Andrea J Korecki
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics at British Columbia Children's Hospital, The University of British Columbia, 950 West 28th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4H4, Canada
| | - Diana Djaksigulova
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics at British Columbia Children's Hospital, The University of British Columbia, 950 West 28th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4H4, Canada
| | | | - Nina Y Chiu
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics at British Columbia Children's Hospital, The University of British Columbia, 950 West 28th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4H4, Canada
- Department of Medical Genetics, The University of British Columbia, 950 West 28th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4H4, Canada
| | - Siu Ling Lam
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics at British Columbia Children's Hospital, The University of British Columbia, 950 West 28th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4H4, Canada
| | - Tess C Lengyell
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics at British Columbia Children's Hospital, The University of British Columbia, 950 West 28th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4H4, Canada
| | - Blair R Leavitt
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics at British Columbia Children's Hospital, The University of British Columbia, 950 West 28th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4H4, Canada
- Department of Medical Genetics, The University of British Columbia, 950 West 28th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4H4, Canada
- Incisive Genetics Inc., Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Elizabeth M Simpson
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics at British Columbia Children's Hospital, The University of British Columbia, 950 West 28th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4H4, Canada.
- Department of Medical Genetics, The University of British Columbia, 950 West 28th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4H4, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Wei CT, Popp NA, Peleg O, Powell RL, Borenstein E, Maly DJ, Fowler DM. A chemically controlled Cas9 switch enables temporal modulation of diverse effectors. Nat Chem Biol 2023; 19:981-991. [PMID: 36879061 PMCID: PMC10480357 DOI: 10.1038/s41589-023-01278-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
CRISPR-Cas9 has yielded a plethora of effectors, including targeted transcriptional activators, base editors and prime editors. Current approaches for inducibly modulating Cas9 activity lack temporal precision and require extensive screening and optimization. We describe a versatile, chemically controlled and rapidly activated single-component DNA-binding Cas9 switch, ciCas9, which we use to confer temporal control over seven Cas9 effectors, including two cytidine base editors, two adenine base editors, a dual base editor, a prime editor and a transcriptional activator. Using these temporally controlled effectors, we analyze base editing kinetics, showing that editing occurs within hours and that rapid early editing of nucleotides predicts eventual editing magnitude. We also reveal that editing at preferred nucleotides within target sites increases the frequency of bystander edits. Thus, the ciCas9 switch offers a simple, versatile approach to generating chemically controlled Cas9 effectors, informing future effector engineering and enabling precise temporal effector control for kinetic studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cindy T Wei
- Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Chemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research Inc, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Nicholas A Popp
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Omri Peleg
- The Blavatnik School of Computer Science, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Rachel L Powell
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Elhanan Borenstein
- The Blavatnik School of Computer Science, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Santa Fe Institute, Santa Fe, NM, USA
| | - Dustin J Maly
- Department of Chemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
| | - Douglas M Fowler
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Choi EH, Suh S, Sears AE, Hołubowicz R, Kedhar SR, Browne AW, Palczewski K. Genome editing in the treatment of ocular diseases. Exp Mol Med 2023; 55:1678-1690. [PMID: 37524870 PMCID: PMC10474087 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-023-01057-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Genome-editing technologies have ushered in a new era in gene therapy, providing novel therapeutic strategies for a wide range of diseases, including both genetic and nongenetic ocular diseases. These technologies offer new hope for patients suffering from previously untreatable conditions. The unique anatomical and physiological features of the eye, including its immune-privileged status, size, and compartmentalized structure, provide an optimal environment for the application of these cutting-edge technologies. Moreover, the development of various delivery methods has facilitated the efficient and targeted administration of genome engineering tools designed to correct specific ocular tissues. Additionally, advancements in noninvasive ocular imaging techniques and electroretinography have enabled real-time monitoring of therapeutic efficacy and safety. Herein, we discuss the discovery and development of genome-editing technologies, their application to ocular diseases from the anterior segment to the posterior segment, current limitations encountered in translating these technologies into clinical practice, and ongoing research endeavors aimed at overcoming these challenges.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elliot H Choi
- Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Susie Suh
- Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Avery E Sears
- Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Rafał Hołubowicz
- Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Sanjay R Kedhar
- Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Andrew W Browne
- Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Krzysztof Palczewski
- Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA.
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA.
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA.
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Zuo Y, Zhang C, Zhou Y, Li H, Xiao W, Herzog RW, Xu J, Zhang J, Chen YE, Han R. Liver-specific in vivo base editing of Angptl3 via AAV delivery efficiently lowers blood lipid levels in mice. Cell Biosci 2023; 13:109. [PMID: 37322547 PMCID: PMC10273718 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-023-01036-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gene editing has emerged as an exciting therapeutic development platform for numerous genetic and nongenetic diseases. Targeting lipid-modulating genes such as angiopoietin-related protein 3 (ANGPTL3) with gene editing offers hope for a permanent solution to lower cardiovascular disease risks associated with hypercholesterolemia. RESULTS In this study, we developed a hepatocyte-specific base editing therapeutic approach delivered by dual adeno-associated virus (AAV) to enable hepatocyte-specific targeting of Angptl3 to lower blood lipid levels. Systemic AAV9-mediated delivery of AncBE4max, a cytosine base editor (CBE), targeting mouse Angptl3 resulted in the installation of a premature stop codon in Angptl3 with an average efficiency of 63.3 ± 2.3% in the bulk liver tissue. A near-complete knockout of the ANGPTL3 protein in the circulation were observed within 2-4 weeks following AAV administration. Furthermore, the serum levels of triglyceride (TG) and total cholesterol (TC) were decreased by approximately 58% and 61%, respectively, at 4 weeks after treatment. CONCLUSIONS These results highlight the promise of liver-targeted Angptl3 base editing for blood lipid control.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuanbojiao Zuo
- Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, P.R. China
| | - Chen Zhang
- Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Yuan Zhou
- Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Haiwen Li
- Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Weidong Xiao
- Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA
| | - Roland W Herzog
- Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA
| | - Jie Xu
- Center for Advanced Models for Translational Sciences and Therapeutics, University of Michigan Medical Center, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Jifeng Zhang
- Center for Advanced Models for Translational Sciences and Therapeutics, University of Michigan Medical Center, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Y Eugene Chen
- Center for Advanced Models for Translational Sciences and Therapeutics, University of Michigan Medical Center, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Renzhi Han
- Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA.
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Liang Y, Chen F, Wang K, Lai L. Base editors: development and applications in biomedicine. Front Med 2023; 17:359-387. [PMID: 37434066 DOI: 10.1007/s11684-023-1013-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023]
Abstract
Base editor (BE) is a gene-editing tool developed by combining the CRISPR/Cas system with an individual deaminase, enabling precise single-base substitution in DNA or RNA without generating a DNA double-strand break (DSB) or requiring donor DNA templates in living cells. Base editors offer more precise and secure genome-editing effects than other conventional artificial nuclease systems, such as CRISPR/Cas9, as the DSB induced by Cas9 will cause severe damage to the genome. Thus, base editors have important applications in the field of biomedicine, including gene function investigation, directed protein evolution, genetic lineage tracing, disease modeling, and gene therapy. Since the development of the two main base editors, cytosine base editors (CBEs) and adenine base editors (ABEs), scientists have developed more than 100 optimized base editors with improved editing efficiency, precision, specificity, targeting scope, and capacity to be delivered in vivo, greatly enhancing their application potential in biomedicine. Here, we review the recent development of base editors, summarize their applications in the biomedical field, and discuss future perspectives and challenges for therapeutic applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanhui Liang
- China-New Zealand Joint Laboratory on Biomedicine and Health, CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Centre for Regenerative Medicine and Health, Hong Kong Institute of Science and Innovation, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510530, China
- Research Unit of Generation of Large Animal Disease Models, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU015), Guangzhou, 510530, China
- Sanya Institute of Swine Resource, Hainan Provincial Research Centre of Laboratory Animals, Sanya, 572000, China
| | - Fangbing Chen
- China-New Zealand Joint Laboratory on Biomedicine and Health, CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Centre for Regenerative Medicine and Health, Hong Kong Institute of Science and Innovation, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510530, China
- Research Unit of Generation of Large Animal Disease Models, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU015), Guangzhou, 510530, China
- Sanya Institute of Swine Resource, Hainan Provincial Research Centre of Laboratory Animals, Sanya, 572000, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Large Animal Models for Biomedicine, Wuyi University, Jiangmen, 529020, China
| | - Kepin Wang
- China-New Zealand Joint Laboratory on Biomedicine and Health, CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Centre for Regenerative Medicine and Health, Hong Kong Institute of Science and Innovation, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510530, China
- Research Unit of Generation of Large Animal Disease Models, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU015), Guangzhou, 510530, China
- Sanya Institute of Swine Resource, Hainan Provincial Research Centre of Laboratory Animals, Sanya, 572000, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Large Animal Models for Biomedicine, Wuyi University, Jiangmen, 529020, China
| | - Liangxue Lai
- China-New Zealand Joint Laboratory on Biomedicine and Health, CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Centre for Regenerative Medicine and Health, Hong Kong Institute of Science and Innovation, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510530, China.
- Research Unit of Generation of Large Animal Disease Models, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU015), Guangzhou, 510530, China.
- Sanya Institute of Swine Resource, Hainan Provincial Research Centre of Laboratory Animals, Sanya, 572000, China.
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Large Animal Models for Biomedicine, Wuyi University, Jiangmen, 529020, China.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Kyriakopoulou E, Monnikhof T, van Rooij E. Gene editing innovations and their applications in cardiomyopathy research. Dis Model Mech 2023; 16:dmm050088. [PMID: 37222281 PMCID: PMC10233723 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.050088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Cardiomyopathies are among the major triggers of heart failure, but their clinical and genetic complexity have hampered our understanding of these disorders and delayed the development of effective treatments. Alongside the recent identification of multiple cardiomyopathy-associated genetic variants, advances in genome editing are providing new opportunities for cardiac disease modeling and therapeutic intervention, both in vitro and in vivo. Two recent innovations in this field, prime and base editors, have improved editing precision and efficiency, and are opening up new possibilities for gene editing of postmitotic tissues, such as the heart. Here, we review recent advances in prime and base editors, the methods to optimize their delivery and targeting efficiency, their strengths and limitations, and the challenges that remain to be addressed to improve the application of these tools to the heart and their translation to the clinic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eirini Kyriakopoulou
- Hubrecht Institute, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW) and University Medical Center, 3584CT Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Thomas Monnikhof
- Hubrecht Institute, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW) and University Medical Center, 3584CT Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Eva van Rooij
- Hubrecht Institute, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW) and University Medical Center, 3584CT Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Jing Q, Liu W, Jiang H, Liao Y, Yang Q, Xing Y. Highly Efficient A-to-G Editing in PFFs via Multiple ABEs. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:genes14040908. [PMID: 37107666 PMCID: PMC10137487 DOI: 10.3390/genes14040908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 04/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Cytosine base editors (CBEs) and adenine base editors (ABEs) are recently developed CRISPR-mediated genome-editing tools that do not introduce double-strand breaks. In this study, five ABEs, ABE7.10, ABEmax, NG-ABEmax, ABE8e and NG-ABE8e, were used to generate A-to-G (T-to-C) conversions in five genome loci in porcine fetal fibroblasts (PFFs). Variable yet appreciable editing efficiencies and variable activity windows were observed in these targeting regions via these five editors. The strategy of two sgRNAs in one vector exhibited superior editing efficiency to that of using two separate sgRNA expression vectors. ABE-mediated start-codon mutation in APOE silenced its expression of protein and, unexpectedly, eliminated the vast majority of its mRNA. No off-target DNA site was detected for these editors. Substantial off-target RNA events were present in the ABE-edited cells, but no KEGG pathway was found to be significantly enriched. Our study supports that ABEs are powerful tools for A-to-G (T-to-C) point-mutation modification in porcine cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qiqi Jing
- State Key Laboratory of Pig Genetic Improvement and Production Technology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang 330045, China
| | - Weiwei Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Pig Genetic Improvement and Production Technology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang 330045, China
| | - Haoyun Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Pig Genetic Improvement and Production Technology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang 330045, China
| | - Yaya Liao
- State Key Laboratory of Pig Genetic Improvement and Production Technology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang 330045, China
| | - Qiang Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Pig Genetic Improvement and Production Technology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang 330045, China
| | - Yuyun Xing
- State Key Laboratory of Pig Genetic Improvement and Production Technology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang 330045, China
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Jang G, Shin HR, Do HS, Kweon J, Hwang S, Kim S, Heo SH, Kim Y, Lee BH. Therapeutic gene correction for Lesch-Nyhan syndrome using CRISPR-mediated base and prime editing. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2023; 31:586-595. [PMID: 36910714 PMCID: PMC9996127 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2023.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
Lesch-Nyhan syndrome (LNS) is inherited as an X-linked recessive genetic disorder caused by mutations in hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyl transferase 1 (HPRT1). Patients with LNS show various clinical phenotypes, including hyperuricemia, gout, devastating behavioral abnormality, intellectual disability, and self-harm. Although uric acid overproduction can be modulated with the xanthine oxidase inhibitor allopurinol, there exists no treatment for behavioral and neurological manifestations of LNS. In the current study, CRISPR-mediated base editors (BEs) and prime editors (PEs) were utilized to generate LNS-associated disease models and correct the disease models for therapeutic approach. Cytosine BEs (CBEs) were used to induce c.430C>T and c.508C>T mutations in HAP1 cells, and then adenine BEs (ABEs) were used to correct these mutations without DNA cleavage. PEs induced a c.333_334ins(A) mutation, identified in a Korean patient with LNS, in HAP1 cells, which was corrected in turn by PEs. Furthermore, improved PEs corrected the same mutation in LNS patient-derived fibroblasts by up to 14% without any unwanted mutations. These results suggest that CRISPR-mediated BEs and PEs would be suggested as a potential therapeutic strategy of this extremely rare, devastating genetic disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gayoung Jang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Asan Medical Institute of Convergence Science and Technology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Stem Cell Immunomodulation Research Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ha Rim Shin
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Asan Medical Institute of Convergence Science and Technology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Stem Cell Immunomodulation Research Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyo-Sang Do
- Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jiyeon Kweon
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Asan Medical Institute of Convergence Science and Technology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Soojin Hwang
- Department of Pediatrics, Asan Medical Center Children's Hospital, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Soyoung Kim
- Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sun Hee Heo
- Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yongsub Kim
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Asan Medical Institute of Convergence Science and Technology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Stem Cell Immunomodulation Research Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Beom Hee Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, Asan Medical Center Children's Hospital, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Medical Genetics Center, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Kim S, Jeong YK, Cho CS, Lee S, Sohn CH, Kim JH, Jeong Y, Jo DH, Bae S, Lee H. Enhancement of Gene Editing and Base Editing with Therapeutic Ribonucleoproteins through In Vivo Delivery Based on Absorptive Silica Nanoconstruct. Adv Healthc Mater 2023; 12:e2201825. [PMID: 36326169 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202201825] [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: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Key to the widespread and secure application of genome editing tools is the safe and effective delivery of multiple components of ribonucleoproteins (RNPs) into single cells, which remains a biological barrier to their clinical application. To overcome this issue, a robust RNP delivery platform based on a biocompatible sponge-like silica nanoconstruct (SN) for storing and directly delivering therapeutic RNPs, including Cas9 nuclease RNP (Cas9-RNP) and base editor RNP (BE-RNP) is designed. Compared with commercialized material such as lipid-based methods, up to 50-fold gene deletion and 10-fold base substitution efficiency is obtained with a low off-target efficiency by targeting various cells and genes. In particular, gene correction is successfully induced by SN-based delivery through intravenous injection in an in vivo solid-tumor model and through subretinal injection in mouse eye. Moreover, because of its low toxicity and high biodegradability, SN has negligible effect on cellular function of organs. As the engineered SN can overcome practical challenges associated with therapeutic RNP application, it is strongly expected this platform to be a modular RNPs delivery system, facilitating in vivo gene deletion and editing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seongchan Kim
- Biomaterials Research Center, Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), 02792, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - You Kyeong Jeong
- Medical Research Center of Genomic Medicine Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 03080, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Chang Sik Cho
- Fight Against Angiogenesis-Related Blindness (FARB) Laboratory, Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, 03080, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - SeokHoon Lee
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 03080, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Chang Ho Sohn
- Center for Nanomedicine, Institute for Basic Science, Graduate Program in Nanobiomedical Engineering, Advanced Science Institute, Yonsei University, 03722, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong Hun Kim
- Fight Against Angiogenesis-Related Blindness (FARB) Laboratory, Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, 03080, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Department of Ophthalmology and Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 03080, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Youngdo Jeong
- Biomaterials Research Center, Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), 02792, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong Hyun Jo
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 03080, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sangsu Bae
- Medical Research Center of Genomic Medicine Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 03080, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 03080, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyojin Lee
- Biomaterials Research Center, Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), 02792, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Division of Bio-Medical Science & Technology, KIST School - Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), 02792, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Wu J, Cho CS, Jo DH, Kim JH. Application of Base Editor-Mediated Genome Editing in Mouse Retina. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2606:179-188. [PMID: 36592316 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2879-9_14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Base editor is a newly developed genome editing technology that enables conversion of single nucleotides without DNA double-strand breaks (DSB) and maintains a low rate of insertion-deletion (INDEL) errors. With these flexibility and safety, base editor has been widely used in many fields, including inherited retinal disease. The majority of retinal genome editing requires intravitreal and subretinal injection delivery of the therapeutic vector in order to transduce the target cells. Here, we provide an application guide of base editor as performed in the mouse retina.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jun Wu
- Fight against Angiogenesis-Related Blindness (FARB) Laboratory, Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Chang Sik Cho
- Fight against Angiogenesis-Related Blindness (FARB) Laboratory, Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong Hyun Jo
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong Hun Kim
- Fight against Angiogenesis-Related Blindness (FARB) Laboratory, Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
- Department of Ophthalmology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine and Population, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Lee SN, Jang HS, Woo JS. Heterologous Expression and Purification of a CRISPR-Cas9-Based Adenine Base Editor. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2606:123-133. [PMID: 36592312 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2879-9_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
CRISPR-cas9-guided adenine base editors (ABEs) site-specifically convert the A-T base pair to G-C base pair in genomic DNA. The intracellular delivery of ABE proteins preassembled with guide RNAs (gRNAs) has shown greatly reduced off-target effects compared with that of plasmids or viral vectors containing ABE and gRNA-encoding sequences. For efficient gene editing by the ribonucleoprotein delivery method, the ABE-gRNA complexes need to be prepared in high purity and quantity. Here we describe the expression and purification procedure of ABEmax, one of high-efficiency ABE versions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seu-Na Lee
- Department of Life Sciences, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hong-Su Jang
- Department of Life Sciences, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Sung Woo
- Department of Life Sciences, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Visual function restoration in a mouse model of Leber congenital amaurosis via therapeutic base editing. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2022; 31:16-27. [PMID: 36589710 PMCID: PMC9792702 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2022.11.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Leber congenital amaurosis (LCA), an inherited retinal degeneration, causes severe visual dysfunction in children and adolescents. In patients with LCA, pathogenic variants, such as RPE65, are evident in specific genes, related to the functions of retinal pigment epithelium and photoreceptors. In contrast to the original Cas9, base editing tools can correct pathogenic substitutions without generation of DNA double-stranded breaks (DSBs). In this study, dual adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors containing split adenine base editors (ABEs) with trans-splicing intein were prepared for in vivo base editing in retinal degeneration of 12 (rd12) mice, an animal model of LCA, possessing a nonsense mutation of C to T transition in the Rpe65 gene (p.R44X). Subretinal injection of AAV-ABE in retinal pigment epithelial cells of rd12 mice resulted in an A to G transition. The on-target editing was sufficient for recovery of wild-type mRNA, RPE65 protein, and light-induced electrical responses from the retina. Compared with our previous therapeutic editing strategies using Cas9 and prime editing, or with the gene transfer strategy shown in the current study, our results suggest that, considering the editing efficacy and functional recovery, ABEs could be a strong, reliable method for correction of pathogenic variants in the treatment of LCA.
Collapse
|
30
|
Antoniou P, Hardouin G, Martinucci P, Frati G, Felix T, Chalumeau A, Fontana L, Martin J, Masson C, Brusson M, Maule G, Rosello M, Giovannangeli C, Abramowski V, de Villartay JP, Concordet JP, Del Bene F, El Nemer W, Amendola M, Cavazzana M, Cereseto A, Romano O, Miccio A. Base-editing-mediated dissection of a γ-globin cis-regulatory element for the therapeutic reactivation of fetal hemoglobin expression. Nat Commun 2022; 13:6618. [PMID: 36333351 PMCID: PMC9636226 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-34493-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Sickle cell disease and β-thalassemia affect the production of the adult β-hemoglobin chain. The clinical severity is lessened by mutations that cause fetal γ-globin expression in adult life (i.e., the hereditary persistence of fetal hemoglobin). Mutations clustering ~200 nucleotides upstream of the HBG transcriptional start sites either reduce binding of the LRF repressor or recruit the KLF1 activator. Here, we use base editing to generate a variety of mutations in the -200 region of the HBG promoters, including potent combinations of four to eight γ-globin-inducing mutations. Editing of patient hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells is safe, leads to fetal hemoglobin reactivation and rescues the pathological phenotype. Creation of a KLF1 activator binding site is the most potent strategy - even in long-term repopulating hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells. Compared with a Cas9-nuclease approach, base editing avoids the generation of insertions, deletions and large genomic rearrangements and results in higher γ-globin levels. Our results demonstrate that base editing of HBG promoters is a safe, universal strategy for treating β-hemoglobinopathies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Panagiotis Antoniou
- Université Paris Cité, Imagine Institute, Laboratory of chromatin and gene regulation during development, INSERM UMR 1163, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Giulia Hardouin
- Université Paris Cité, Imagine Institute, Laboratory of chromatin and gene regulation during development, INSERM UMR 1163, 75015, Paris, France
- Université Paris Cité, Imagine Institute, Laboratory of Human Lymphohematopoiesis, INSERM UMR 1163, 75015, Paris, France
- Biotherapy Department and Clinical Investigation Center, Assistance Publique Hopitaux de Paris, INSERM, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Pierre Martinucci
- Université Paris Cité, Imagine Institute, Laboratory of chromatin and gene regulation during development, INSERM UMR 1163, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Giacomo Frati
- Université Paris Cité, Imagine Institute, Laboratory of chromatin and gene regulation during development, INSERM UMR 1163, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Tristan Felix
- Université Paris Cité, Imagine Institute, Laboratory of chromatin and gene regulation during development, INSERM UMR 1163, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Anne Chalumeau
- Université Paris Cité, Imagine Institute, Laboratory of chromatin and gene regulation during development, INSERM UMR 1163, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Letizia Fontana
- Université Paris Cité, Imagine Institute, Laboratory of chromatin and gene regulation during development, INSERM UMR 1163, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Jeanne Martin
- Université Paris Cité, Imagine Institute, Laboratory of chromatin and gene regulation during development, INSERM UMR 1163, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Cecile Masson
- Bioinformatics Platform, Imagine Institute, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Megane Brusson
- Université Paris Cité, Imagine Institute, Laboratory of chromatin and gene regulation during development, INSERM UMR 1163, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Giulia Maule
- CIBIO, University of Trento, 38100, Trento, Italy
| | - Marion Rosello
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, 75015, Paris, France
| | | | - Vincent Abramowski
- Université Paris Cité, Imagine Institute, Laboratory of genome dynamics in the immune system, INSERM UMR 1163, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Jean-Pierre de Villartay
- Université Paris Cité, Imagine Institute, Laboratory of genome dynamics in the immune system, INSERM UMR 1163, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Jean-Paul Concordet
- INSERM U1154, CNRS UMR7196, Museum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Paris, France
| | - Filippo Del Bene
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Wassim El Nemer
- Établissement Français du Sang, UMR 7268, 13005, Marseille, France
- Laboratoire d'Excellence GR-Ex, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Mario Amendola
- Genethon, 91000, Evry, France
- Université Paris-Saclay, Univ Evry, Inserm, Genethon, Integrare research unit UMR_S951, 91000, Evry, France
| | - Marina Cavazzana
- Biotherapy Department and Clinical Investigation Center, Assistance Publique Hopitaux de Paris, INSERM, 75015, Paris, France
- Université Paris Cité, 75015, Paris, France
- Imagine Institute, 75015, Paris, France
| | | | - Oriana Romano
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125, Modena, Italy
| | - Annarita Miccio
- Université Paris Cité, Imagine Institute, Laboratory of chromatin and gene regulation during development, INSERM UMR 1163, 75015, Paris, France.
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Tan J, Forner J, Karcher D, Bock R. DNA base editing in nuclear and organellar genomes. Trends Genet 2022; 38:1147-1169. [PMID: 35853769 DOI: 10.1016/j.tig.2022.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Revised: 06/12/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Genome editing continues to revolutionize biological research. Due to its simplicity and flexibility, CRISPR/Cas-based editing has become the preferred technology in most systems. Cas nucleases tolerate fusion to large protein domains, thus allowing combination of their DNA recognition properties with new enzymatic activities. Fusion to nucleoside deaminase or reverse transcriptase domains has produced base editors and prime editors that, instead of generating double-strand breaks in the target sequence, induce site-specific alterations of single (or a few adjacent) nucleotides. The availability of protein-only genome editing reagents based on transcription activator-like effectors has enabled the extension of base editing to the genomes of chloroplasts and mitochondria. In this review, we summarize currently available base editing methods for nuclear and organellar genomes. We highlight recent advances with improving precision, specificity, and efficiency and discuss current limitations and future challenges. We also provide a brief overview of applications in agricultural biotechnology and gene therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Junjie Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Genetics and Germplasm Enhancement, Innovation Center for Genome Editing and Engineering, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Joachim Forner
- Max-Planck-Institut für Molekulare Pflanzenphysiologie, Am Mühlenberg 1, D-14476 Potsdam-Golm, Germany
| | - Daniel Karcher
- Max-Planck-Institut für Molekulare Pflanzenphysiologie, Am Mühlenberg 1, D-14476 Potsdam-Golm, Germany
| | - Ralph Bock
- Max-Planck-Institut für Molekulare Pflanzenphysiologie, Am Mühlenberg 1, D-14476 Potsdam-Golm, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Mirjalili Mohanna SZ, Djaksigulova D, Hill AM, Wagner PK, Simpson EM, Leavitt BR. LNP-mediated delivery of CRISPR RNP for wide-spread in vivo genome editing in mouse cornea. J Control Release 2022; 350:401-413. [PMID: 36029893 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2022.08.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Revised: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
CRISPR/Cas9-based genome-editing therapies are poised to change the clinical outcome for many diseases with validated therapeutic targets awaiting an appropriate delivery system. Recent advances in lipid nanoparticle (LNP) technology make them an attractive platform for the delivery of various forms of CRISPR/Cas9, including the efficient and transient Cas9/gRNA ribonucleoprotein (RNP) complexes. In this study, we initially tested our novel LNP platform by delivering pre-complexed RNPs and template DNA to cultured mouse cortical neurons, and obtained successful ex vivo genome editing. We then directly injected LNP-packaged RNPs and DNA template into the mouse cornea to evaluate in vivo delivery. For the first time, we demonstrated wide-spread genome editing in the cornea using our LNP-RNPs. The ability of our LNPs to transfect the cornea highlights the potential of our novel delivery platform to be used in CRISPR/Cas9-based genome editing therapies of corneal diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seyedeh Zeinab Mirjalili Mohanna
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics at British Columbia Children's Hospital, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Department of Medical Genetics, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Diana Djaksigulova
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics at British Columbia Children's Hospital, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | | | | | - Elizabeth M Simpson
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics at British Columbia Children's Hospital, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Department of Medical Genetics, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
| | - Blair R Leavitt
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics at British Columbia Children's Hospital, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Department of Medical Genetics, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Incisive Genetics Inc., Vancouver, BC, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Jo DH, Bae S, Kim HH, Kim JS, Kim JH. In vivo application of base and prime editing to treat inherited retinal diseases. Prog Retin Eye Res 2022; 94:101132. [PMID: 36241547 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2022.101132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Revised: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Inherited retinal diseases (IRDs) are vision-threatening retinal disorders caused by pathogenic variants of genes related to visual functions. Genomic analyses in patients with IRDs have revealed pathogenic variants which affect vision. However, treatment options for IRDs are limited to nutritional supplements regardless of genetic variants or gene-targeting approaches based on antisense oligonucleotides and adeno-associated virus vectors limited to targeting few genes. Genome editing, particularly that involving clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR)-Cas9 technologies, can correct pathogenic variants and provide additional treatment opportunities. Recently developed base and prime editing platforms based on CRISPR-Cas9 technologies are promising for therapeutic genome editing because they do not employ double-stranded breaks (DSBs), which are associated with P53 activation, large deletions, and chromosomal translocations. Instead, using attached deaminases and reverse transcriptases, base and prime editing efficiently induces specific base substitutions and intended genetic changes (substitutions, deletions, or insertions), respectively, without DSBs. In this review, we will discuss the recent in vivo application of CRISPR-Cas9 technologies, focusing on base and prime editing, in animal models of IRDs.
Collapse
|
34
|
Suh S, Choi EH, Raguram A, Liu DR, Palczewski K. Precision genome editing in the eye. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2210104119. [PMID: 36122230 PMCID: PMC9522375 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2210104119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
CRISPR-Cas-based genome editing technologies could, in principle, be used to treat a wide variety of inherited diseases, including genetic disorders of vision. Programmable CRISPR-Cas nucleases are effective tools for gene disruption, but they are poorly suited for precisely correcting pathogenic mutations in most therapeutic settings. Recently developed precision genome editing agents, including base editors and prime editors, have enabled precise gene correction and disease rescue in multiple preclinical models of genetic disorders. Additionally, new delivery technologies that transiently deliver precision genome editing agents in vivo offer minimized off-target editing and improved safety profiles. These improvements to precision genome editing and delivery technologies are expected to revolutionize the treatment of genetic disorders of vision and other diseases. In this Perspective, we describe current preclinical and clinical genome editing approaches for treating inherited retinal degenerative diseases, and we discuss important considerations that should be addressed as these approaches are translated into clinical practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susie Suh
- Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697
| | - Elliot H. Choi
- Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697
| | - Aditya Raguram
- Merkin Institute of Transformative Technologies in Healthcare, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138
| | - David R. Liu
- Merkin Institute of Transformative Technologies in Healthcare, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138
| | - Krzysztof Palczewski
- Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Salman A, Kantor A, McClements ME, Marfany G, Trigueros S, MacLaren RE. Non-Viral Delivery of CRISPR/Cas Cargo to the Retina Using Nanoparticles: Current Possibilities, Challenges, and Limitations. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:1842. [PMID: 36145593 PMCID: PMC9503525 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14091842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The discovery of the CRISPR/Cas system and its development into a powerful genome engineering tool have revolutionized the field of molecular biology and generated excitement for its potential to treat a wide range of human diseases. As a gene therapy target, the retina offers many advantages over other tissues because of its surgical accessibility and relative immunity privilege due to its blood-retinal barrier. These features explain the large advances made in ocular gene therapy over the past decade, including the first in vivo clinical trial using CRISPR gene-editing reagents. Although viral vector-mediated therapeutic approaches have been successful, they have several shortcomings, including packaging constraints, pre-existing anti-capsid immunity and vector-induced immunogenicity, therapeutic potency and persistence, and potential genotoxicity. The use of nanomaterials in the delivery of therapeutic agents has revolutionized the way genetic materials are delivered to cells, tissues, and organs, and presents an appealing alternative to bypass the limitations of viral delivery systems. In this review, we explore the potential use of non-viral vectors as tools for gene therapy, exploring the latest advancements in nanotechnology in medicine and focusing on the nanoparticle-mediated delivery of CRIPSR genetic cargo to the retina.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Salman
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Ariel Kantor
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | | | - Gemma Marfany
- Department of Genetics Microbiology and Statistics, University of Barcelona, 08007 Barcelona, Spain
- CIBERER, University of Barcelona, 08007 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sonia Trigueros
- Department of Genetics Microbiology and Statistics, University of Barcelona, 08007 Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3SZ, UK
| | - Robert E. MacLaren
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Laoharawee K, Johnson MJ, Lahr WS, Sipe CJ, Kleinboehl E, Peterson JJ, Lonetree CL, Bell JB, Slipek NJ, Crane AT, Webber BR, Moriarity BS. A Pan-RNase Inhibitor Enabling CRISPR-mRNA Platforms for Engineering of Primary Human Monocytes. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:9749. [PMID: 36077152 PMCID: PMC9456164 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23179749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Revised: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Monocytes and their downstream effectors are critical components of the innate immune system. Monocytes are equipped with chemokine receptors, allowing them to migrate to various tissues, where they can differentiate into macrophage and dendritic cell subsets and participate in tissue homeostasis, infection, autoimmune disease, and cancer. Enabling genome engineering in monocytes and their effector cells will facilitate a myriad of applications for basic and translational research. Here, we demonstrate that CRISPR-Cas9 RNPs can be used for efficient gene knockout in primary human monocytes. In addition, we demonstrate that intracellular RNases are likely responsible for poor and heterogenous mRNA expression as incorporation of pan-RNase inhibitor allows efficient genome engineering following mRNA-based delivery of Cas9 and base editor enzymes. Moreover, we demonstrate that CRISPR-Cas9 combined with an rAAV vector DNA donor template mediates site-specific insertion and expression of a transgene in primary human monocytes. Finally, we demonstrate that SIRPa knock-out monocyte-derived macrophages have enhanced activity against cancer cells, highlighting the potential for application in cellular immunotherapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kanut Laoharawee
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Matthew J. Johnson
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Walker S. Lahr
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Christopher J. Sipe
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Evan Kleinboehl
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Joseph J. Peterson
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Cara-lin Lonetree
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Jason B. Bell
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Nicholas J. Slipek
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Andrew T. Crane
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Beau R. Webber
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Branden S. Moriarity
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Hong SA, Kim SE, Lee AY, Hwang GH, Kim JH, Iwata H, Kim SC, Bae S, Lee SE. Therapeutic base editing and prime editing of COL7A1 mutations in recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa. Mol Ther 2022; 30:2664-2679. [PMID: 35690907 PMCID: PMC9372317 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2022.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2021] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB) is a severe skin fragility disorder caused by loss-of-function mutations in the COL7A1 gene, which encodes type VII collagen (C7), a protein that functions in skin adherence. From 36 Korean RDEB patients, we identified a total of 69 pathogenic mutations (40 variants without recurrence), including point mutations (72.5%) and insertion/deletion mutations (27.5%). For fibroblasts from two patients (Pat1 and Pat2), we applied adenine base editors (ABEs) to correct the pathogenic mutation of COL7A1 or to bypass a premature stop codon in Pat1-derived primary fibroblasts. To expand the targeting scope, we also utilized prime editors (PEs) to correct the COL7A1 mutations in Pat1- and Pat2-derived fibroblasts. Ultimately, we found that transfer of edited patient-derived skin equivalents (i.e., RDEB keratinocytes and PE-corrected RDEB fibroblasts from the RDEB patient) into the skin of immunodeficient mice led to C7 deposition and anchoring fibril formation within the dermal-epidermal junction, suggesting that base editing and prime editing could be feasible strategies for ex vivo gene editing to treat RDEB.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sung-Ah Hong
- Genomic Medicine Institute, Medical Research Center, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, South Korea
| | - Song-Ee Kim
- Department of Dermatology, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Cutaneous Biology Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 06273, South Korea
| | - A-Young Lee
- Department of Dermatology, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Cutaneous Biology Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 06273, South Korea
| | - Gue-Ho Hwang
- Department of Chemistry, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, South Korea
| | - Jong Hoon Kim
- Department of Dermatology, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Cutaneous Biology Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 06273, South Korea
| | - Hiroaki Iwata
- Department of Dermatology, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo 060-8638, Japan
| | - Soo-Chan Kim
- Department of Dermatology, Yongin Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Yongin 16995, South Korea
| | - Sangsu Bae
- Genomic Medicine Institute, Medical Research Center, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, South Korea; Department of Biomedical Sciences, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, South Korea.
| | - Sang Eun Lee
- Department of Dermatology, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Cutaneous Biology Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 06273, South Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Multiplex base editing to convert TAG into TAA codons in the human genome. Nat Commun 2022; 13:4482. [PMID: 35918324 PMCID: PMC9345975 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-31927-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Whole-genome recoding has been shown to enable nonstandard amino acids, biocontainment and viral resistance in bacteria. Here we take the first steps to extend this to human cells demonstrating exceptional base editing to convert TAG to TAA for 33 essential genes via a single transfection, and examine base-editing genome-wide (observing ~40 C-to-T off-target events in essential gene exons). We also introduce GRIT, a computational tool for recoding. This demonstrates the feasibility of recoding, and highly multiplex editing in mammalian cells. Whole-genome recoding has been shown to enable nonstandard amino acids, biocontainment and viral resistance in bacteria. Here the authors extend this to human cells using base editing to convert TAG to TAA for 33 essential genes via a single transfection followed by examining base-editing genome-wide.
Collapse
|
39
|
Lu Y, Happi Mbakam C, Song B, Bendavid E, Tremblay JP. Improvements of nuclease and nickase gene modification techniques for the treatment of genetic diseases. Front Genome Ed 2022; 4:892769. [PMID: 35958050 PMCID: PMC9360573 DOI: 10.3389/fgeed.2022.892769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Advancements in genome editing make possible to exploit the functions of enzymes for efficient DNA modifications with tremendous potential to treat human genetic diseases. Several nuclease genome editing strategies including Meganucleases (MNs), Zinc Finger Nucleases (ZFNs), Transcription Activator-like Effector Nucleases (TALENs) and Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats-CRISPR associated proteins (CRISPR-Cas) have been developed for the correction of genetic mutations. CRISPR-Cas has further been engineered to create nickase genome editing tools including Base editors and Prime editors with much precision and efficacy. In this review, we summarized recent improvements in nuclease and nickase genome editing approaches for the treatment of genetic diseases. We also highlighted some limitations for the translation of these approaches into clinical applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yaoyao Lu
- CHU de Québec Research Center, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Cedric Happi Mbakam
- CHU de Québec Research Center, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Bo Song
- CHU de Québec Research Center, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Eli Bendavid
- CHU de Québec Research Center, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Jacques-P. Tremblay
- CHU de Québec Research Center, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
- *Correspondence: Jacques-P. Tremblay,
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
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: 165] [Impact Index Per Article: 82.5] [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.
Collapse
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.
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Hua K, Han P, Zhu JK. Improvement of base editors and prime editors advances precision genome engineering in plants. PLANT PHYSIOLOGY 2022; 188:1795-1810. [PMID: 34962995 PMCID: PMC8968349 DOI: 10.1093/plphys/kiab591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR associated protein (Cas)-mediated gene disruption has revolutionized biomedical research as well as plant and animal breeding. However, most disease-causing mutations and agronomically important genetic variations are single base polymorphisms (single-nucleotide polymorphisms) that require precision genome editing tools for correction of the sequences. Although homology-directed repair of double-stranded breaks (DSBs) can introduce precise changes, such repairs are inefficient in differentiated animal and plant cells. Base editing and prime editing are two recently developed genome engineering approaches that can efficiently introduce precise edits into target sites without requirement of DSB formation or donor DNA templates. They have been applied in several plant species with promising results. Here, we review the extensive literature on improving the efficiency, target scope, and specificity of base editors and prime editors in plants. We also highlight recent progress on base editing in plant organellar genomes and discuss how these precision genome editing tools are advancing basic plant research and crop breeding.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kai Hua
- Shanghai Center for Plant Stress Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201602, China
| | - Peijin Han
- Shanghai Center for Plant Stress Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201602, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jian-Kang Zhu
- Shanghai Center for Plant Stress Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201602, China
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Lim JM, Kim HH. Basic Principles and Clinical Applications of CRISPR-Based Genome Editing. Yonsei Med J 2022; 63:105-113. [PMID: 35083895 PMCID: PMC8819410 DOI: 10.3349/ymj.2022.63.2.105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Advances in sequencing technologies have facilitated the discovery of previously unknown genetic variants in both inherited and acquired disorders, and tools to correct these pathogenic variants are rapidly evolving. Since the first introduction of CRISPR-Cas9 in 2012, the field of CRISPR-based genome editing has progressed immensely, giving hope to many patients suffering from genetic disorders that lack effective treatment. In this review, we will examine the basic principles of CRISPR-based genome editing, explain the mechanisms of new genome editors, including base editors and prime editors, and evaluate the therapeutic possibilities of CRISPR-based genome editing by focusing on recently published clinical trials and animal studies. Although efficacy and safety issues remain a large concern, we cannot deny that CRISPR-based genome editing will soon be prevalent in clinical practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jung Min Lim
- Department of Pharmacology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyongbum Henry Kim
- Department of Pharmacology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Brain Korea 21 Plus Project for Medical Sciences, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Severance Biomedical Science Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Institute for Immunology and Immunological Diseases, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Graduate Program of NanoScience and Technology, Yonsei University, Seoul, Korea
- Center for Nanomedicine, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Seoul, Korea
- Graduate Program of Nano Biomedical Engineering (NanoBME), Advanced Science Institute, Yonsei University, Seoul, Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Banskota S, Raguram A, Suh S, Du SW, Davis JR, Choi EH, Wang X, Nielsen SC, Newby GA, Randolph PB, Osborn MJ, Musunuru K, Palczewski K, Liu DR. Engineered virus-like particles for efficient in vivo delivery of therapeutic proteins. Cell 2022; 185:250-265.e16. [PMID: 35021064 PMCID: PMC8809250 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2021.12.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 251] [Impact Index Per Article: 125.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2021] [Revised: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Methods to deliver gene editing agents in vivo as ribonucleoproteins could offer safety advantages over nucleic acid delivery approaches. We report the development and application of engineered DNA-free virus-like particles (eVLPs) that efficiently package and deliver base editor or Cas9 ribonucleoproteins. By engineering VLPs to overcome cargo packaging, release, and localization bottlenecks, we developed fourth-generation eVLPs that mediate efficient base editing in several primary mouse and human cell types. Using different glycoproteins in eVLPs alters their cellular tropism. Single injections of eVLPs into mice support therapeutic levels of base editing in multiple tissues, reducing serum Pcsk9 levels 78% following 63% liver editing, and partially restoring visual function in a mouse model of genetic blindness. In vitro and in vivo off-target editing from eVLPs was virtually undetected, an improvement over AAV or plasmid delivery. These results establish eVLPs as promising vehicles for therapeutic macromolecule delivery that combine key advantages of both viral and nonviral delivery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- 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
| | - 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
| | - Susie Suh
- Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, Center for Translational Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA; Department of Pharmacology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Samuel W Du
- Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, Center for Translational Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA; Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Jessie R Davis
- 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
| | - Elliot H Choi
- Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, Center for Translational Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA; Department of Pharmacology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Xiao Wang
- Cardiovascular Institute, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Department of Genetics, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Sarah C Nielsen
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Blood and Marrow Transplant and Cellular Therapy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Gregory A Newby
- 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
| | - Peyton B Randolph
- 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
| | - Mark J Osborn
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Blood and Marrow Transplant and Cellular Therapy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Kiran Musunuru
- Cardiovascular Institute, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Department of Genetics, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Krzysztof Palczewski
- Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, Center for Translational Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA; Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA; Department of Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA; Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, CA, 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.
| |
Collapse
|