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Piotrowski-Daspit AS, Bracaglia LG, Eaton DA, Richfield O, Binns TC, Albert C, Gould J, Mortlock RD, Egan ME, Pober JS, Saltzman WM. Enhancing in vivo cell and tissue targeting by modulation of polymer nanoparticles and macrophage decoys. Nat Commun 2024; 15:4247. [PMID: 38762483 PMCID: PMC11102454 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-48442-7] [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: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024] Open
Abstract
The in vivo efficacy of polymeric nanoparticles (NPs) is dependent on their pharmacokinetics, including time in circulation and tissue tropism. Here we explore the structure-function relationships guiding physiological fate of a library of poly(amine-co-ester) (PACE) NPs with different compositions and surface properties. We find that circulation half-life as well as tissue and cell-type tropism is dependent on polymer chemistry, vehicle characteristics, dosing, and strategic co-administration of distribution modifiers, suggesting that physiological fate can be optimized by adjusting these parameters. Our high-throughput quantitative microscopy-based platform to measure the concentration of nanomedicines in the blood combined with detailed biodistribution assessments and pharmacokinetic modeling provides valuable insight into the dynamic in vivo behavior of these polymer NPs. Our results suggest that PACE NPs-and perhaps other NPs-can be designed with tunable properties to achieve desired tissue tropism for the in vivo delivery of nucleic acid therapeutics. These findings can guide the rational design of more effective nucleic acid delivery vehicles for in vivo applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra S Piotrowski-Daspit
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT, US.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, US.
- Department of Internal Medicine - Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine Division, Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, US.
| | - Laura G Bracaglia
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT, US.
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Villanova University, Villanova, PA, US.
| | - David A Eaton
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT, US
| | - Owen Richfield
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT, US
| | - Thomas C Binns
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT, US
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, US
| | - Claire Albert
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT, US
| | - Jared Gould
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT, US
| | - Ryland D Mortlock
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT, US
| | - Marie E Egan
- Department of Pediatrics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, US
- Department of Cellular & Molecular Physiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, US
| | - Jordan S Pober
- Department of Cellular & Molecular Physiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, US
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, US
| | - W Mark Saltzman
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT, US.
- Department of Cellular & Molecular Physiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, US.
- Department of Dermatology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, US.
- Department of Chemical & Environmental Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT, US.
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2
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Boillot L, Costes F. [A systemic gene therapy for the treatment of cystic fibrosis]. Med Sci (Paris) 2024; 40:467-470. [PMID: 38819285 DOI: 10.1051/medsci/2024047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Le master I2VB se propose de donner les bases conceptuelles et pratiques des différents aspects de l’infectiologie. Il s’appuie sur une coopération exemplaire entre les équipes de recherche en infectiologie et en immunologie de l’Université de Tours, et celles, entre autres, de l’Unité Infectiologie et Santé Publique (ISP) du Centre INRAE de Tours-Nouzilly, concrétisée par une profonde interaction entre chercheurs et enseignants-chercheurs.
Cette formation aborde aussi bien les aspects fondamentaux et appliqués de l’infectiologie et de l’immunologie allant de l’étude moléculaire des interactions entre le pathogène et son hôte, jusqu’à la conception et la mise sur le marché des produits de la vaccinologie, des biothérapies anti-infectieuses et des anticorps immuno-thérapeutiques.
Le master I2VB (niveau M1) donne lieu aux parcours ICM, I&B et AcT (niveau M2).
L’option Infectiologie Cellulaire et Moléculaire (ICM) (responsables : Françoise Debierre-Grockiego et Martine Braibant) a pour objectifs de :
former des scientifiques dotés d’une culture générale et technique spécialisée dans les biotechnologies, l’infectiologie, les interactions hôte-pathogène et les mécanismes de la réponse immunitaire anti-infectieuse, contribuant à l’avancée des connaissances scientifiques et à ses applications industrielles, demandes sociétales en forte progression.
former des pharmaciens, médecins, vétérinaires, ingénieurs agronomes aux enjeux actuels de l’infectiologie à la fois dans les domaines fondamentaux et appliqués.
L’option Immunité et biomédicaments (I&B) (responsables : Anne di Tommaso et Isabelle Dimier-Poisson) a pour objectifs de :
former des scientifiques dotés d’une culture générale et technique spécialisée dans les biotechnologies, l’infectiologie, la vaccinologie, les biomédicaments et les biothérapies anti-infectieuses contribuant à l’avancée des connaissances scientifiques et à ses applications industrielles, demandes sociétales en forte progression.
former de jeunes scientifiques, pharmaciens, médecins, vétérinaires, ingénieurs agronomes aux enjeux actuels de l’infectiologie et des biomédicaments à la fois dans les domaines fondamentaux et appliqués.
L’option Anticorps thérapeutiques (AcT) (responsables : Laurie Lajoie et Isabelle Dimier-Poisson) a pour objectifs de :
former des scientifiques dotés d’une culture générale et technique spécialisée dans les biotechnologies, l’immunologie, la cancérologie et les biomédicaments dont les anticorps thérapeutiques, contribuant à l’avancée des connaissances scientifiques et à ses application industrielles et juridiques, demandes sociétales en forte progression.
former de jeunes scientifiques, pharmaciens, médecins, vétérinaires, ingénieurs agronomes aux enjeux actuels de l’infectiologie et des biomédicaments à la fois dans les domaines fondamentaux et appliqués.
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Affiliation(s)
- Léa Boillot
- Université de Tours, Master 2 infectiologie, immunité, vaccinologie et biomédicaments, Tours, France
| | - Floriane Costes
- Université de Tours, Master 2 infectiologie, immunité, vaccinologie et biomédicaments, Tours, France
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3
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Leenaars CHC, Stafleu FR, Häger C, Nieraad H, Bleich A. A systematic review of animal and human data comparing the nasal potential difference test between cystic fibrosis and control. Sci Rep 2024; 14:9664. [PMID: 38671057 PMCID: PMC11053161 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-60389-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The nasal potential difference test (nPD) is an electrophysiological measurement which is altered in patients and animal models with cystic fibrosis (CF). Because protocols and outcomes vary substantially between laboratories, there are concerns over its validity and precision. We performed a systematic literature review (SR) of the nPD to answer the following review questions: A. Is the nasal potential difference similarly affected in CF patients and animal models?", and B. "Is the nPD in human patients and animal models of CF similarly affected by various changes in the experimental set-up?". The review protocol was preregistered on PROSPERO (CRD42021236047). We searched PubMed and Embase with comprehensive search strings. Two independent reviewers screened all references for inclusion and extracted all data. Included were studies about CF which described in vivo nPD measurements in separate CF and control groups. Risk of bias was assessed, and three meta-analyses were performed. We included 130 references describing nPD values for CF and control subjects, which confirmed substantial variation in the experimental design and nPD outcome between groups. The meta-analyses showed a clear difference in baseline nPD values between CF and control subjects, both in animals and in humans. However, baseline nPD values were, on average, lower in animal than in human studies. Reporting of experimental details was poor for both animal and human studies, and urgently needs to improve to ensure reproducibility of experiments within and between species.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Frans R Stafleu
- Department of Animals in Science and Society-Human-Animal Relationship, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Christine Häger
- Institute for Laboratory Animal Science, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Hendrik Nieraad
- Institute for Laboratory Animal Science, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - André Bleich
- Institute for Laboratory Animal Science, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
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4
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McDonald CM, Reid EK, Pohl JF, Yuzyuk TK, Padula LM, Vavrina K, Altman K. Cystic fibrosis and fat malabsorption: Pathophysiology of the cystic fibrosis gastrointestinal tract and the impact of highly effective CFTR modulator therapy. Nutr Clin Pract 2024; 39 Suppl 1:S57-S77. [PMID: 38429959 DOI: 10.1002/ncp.11122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a progressive, genetic, multi-organ disease affecting the respiratory, digestive, endocrine, and reproductive systems. CF can affect any aspect of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, including the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon, pancreas, liver, and gall bladder. GI pathophysiology associated with CF results from CF membrane conductance regulator (CFTR) dysfunction. The majority of people with CF (pwCF) experience exocrine pancreatic insufficiency resulting in malabsorption of nutrients and malnutrition. Additionally, other factors can cause or worsen fat malabsorption, including the potential for short gut syndrome with a history of meconium ileus, hepatobiliary diseases, and disrupted intraluminal factors, such as inadequate bile salts, abnormal pH, intestinal microbiome changes, and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth. Signs and symptoms associated with fat malabsorption, such as abdominal pain, bloating, malodorous flatus, gastroesophageal reflux, nausea, anorexia, steatorrhea, constipation, and distal intestinal obstruction syndrome, are seen in pwCF despite the use of pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy. Given the association of poor nutrition status with lung function decline and increased mortality, aggressive nutrition support is essential in CF care to optimize growth in children and to achieve and maintain a healthy body mass index in adults. The introduction of highly effective CFTR modulator therapy and other advances in CF care have profoundly changed the course of CF management. However, GI symptoms in some pwCF may persist. The use of current knowledge of the pathophysiology of the CF GI tract as well as appropriate, individualized management of GI symptoms continue to be integral components of care for pwCF.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elizabeth K Reid
- Cystic Fibrosis Center, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - John F Pohl
- Pediatric Gastroenterology, Primary Children's Hospital, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Tatiana K Yuzyuk
- Pathology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
- ARUP Institute for Clinical & Experimental Pathology, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Laura M Padula
- Pediatric Specialty, University Health, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Kay Vavrina
- Pediatric Specialty, University Health, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Kimberly Altman
- Gunnar Esiason Adult Cystic Fibrosis and Lung Center, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
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5
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Rano S, Bhaduri A, Singh M. Nanoparticle-based platforms for targeted drug delivery to the pulmonary system as therapeutics to curb cystic fibrosis: A review. J Microbiol Methods 2024; 217-218:106876. [PMID: 38135160 DOI: 10.1016/j.mimet.2023.106876] [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: 10/17/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disorder of the respiratory system caused by mutation of the Cystic Fibrosis Trans-Membrane Conductance Regulator (CFTR) gene that affects a huge number of people worldwide. It results in difficulty breathing due to a large accumulation of mucus in the respiratory tract, resulting in serious bacterial infections, and subsequent death. Traditional drug-based treatments face hindered penetration at the site of action due to the thick mucus layer. Nanotechnology offers possibilities for developing advanced and effective treatment platforms by focusing on drugs that can penetrate the dense mucus layer, fighting against the underlying bacterial infections, and targeting the genetic cause of the disease. In this review, current nanoparticle-mediated drug delivery platforms for CF, challenges in therapeutics, and future prospects have been highlighted. The effectiveness of the different types of nano-based systems conjugated with various drugs to combat the symptoms and the challenges of treating CF are brought into focus. The toxic effects of these nano-medicines and the various factors that are responsible for their effectiveness are also highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sujoy Rano
- Department of Biotechnology, Haldia Institute of Technology, HIT Campus, Purba Medinipur, Haldia 721657, West Bengal, India; In-vitro Biology, Aragen Life Sciences, Hyderabad 500076, Telangana, India
| | - Ahana Bhaduri
- Department of Biotechnology, Haldia Institute of Technology, HIT Campus, Purba Medinipur, Haldia 721657, West Bengal, India
| | - Mukesh Singh
- Department of Biotechnology, Haldia Institute of Technology, HIT Campus, Purba Medinipur, Haldia 721657, West Bengal, India; Department of Botany, Kabi Nazrul College, Murarai, Birbhum 731219 (West Bengal), India.
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6
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Wei T, Sun Y, Cheng Q, Chatterjee S, Traylor Z, Johnson LT, Coquelin ML, Wang J, Torres MJ, Lian X, Wang X, Xiao Y, Hodges CA, Siegwart DJ. Lung SORT LNPs enable precise homology-directed repair mediated CRISPR/Cas genome correction in cystic fibrosis models. Nat Commun 2023; 14:7322. [PMID: 37951948 PMCID: PMC10640563 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-42948-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Approximately 10% of Cystic Fibrosis (CF) patients, particularly those with CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene nonsense mutations, lack effective treatments. The potential of gene correction therapy through delivery of the CRISPR/Cas system to CF-relevant organs/cells is hindered by the lack of efficient genome editor delivery carriers. Herein, we report improved Lung Selective Organ Targeting Lipid Nanoparticles (SORT LNPs) for efficient delivery of Cas9 mRNA, sgRNA, and donor ssDNA templates, enabling precise homology-directed repair-mediated gene correction in CF models. Optimized Lung SORT LNPs deliver mRNA to lung basal cells in Ai9 reporter mice. SORT LNP treatment successfully corrected the CFTR mutations in homozygous G542X mice and in patient-derived human bronchial epithelial cells with homozygous F508del mutations, leading to the restoration of CFTR protein expression and chloride transport function. This proof-of-concept study will contribute to accelerating the clinical development of mRNA LNPs for CF treatment through CRISPR/Cas gene correction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuo Wei
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Program in Genetic Drug Engineering, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Yehui Sun
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Program in Genetic Drug Engineering, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Qiang Cheng
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Program in Genetic Drug Engineering, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Sumanta Chatterjee
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Program in Genetic Drug Engineering, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Zachary Traylor
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Lindsay T Johnson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Program in Genetic Drug Engineering, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | | | - Jialu Wang
- ReCode Therapeutics, Menlo Park, CA, USA
| | | | - Xizhen Lian
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Program in Genetic Drug Engineering, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Xu Wang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Program in Genetic Drug Engineering, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Yufen Xiao
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Program in Genetic Drug Engineering, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Craig A Hodges
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Daniel J Siegwart
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Program in Genetic Drug Engineering, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
- Department of Biochemistry, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
- Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
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7
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Mikame Y, Yamayoshi A. Recent Advancements in Development and Therapeutic Applications of Genome-Targeting Triplex-Forming Oligonucleotides and Peptide Nucleic Acids. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2515. [PMID: 37896275 PMCID: PMC10609763 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15102515] [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: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 10/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent developments in artificial nucleic acid and drug delivery systems present possibilities for the symbiotic engineering of therapeutic oligonucleotides, such as antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) and small interfering ribonucleic acids (siRNAs). Employing these technologies, triplex-forming oligonucleotides (TFOs) or peptide nucleic acids (PNAs) can be applied to the development of symbiotic genome-targeting tools as well as a new class of oligonucleotide drugs, which offer conceptual advantages over antisense as the antigene target generally comprises two gene copies per cell rather than multiple copies of mRNA that are being continually transcribed. Further, genome editing by TFOs or PNAs induces permanent changes in the pathological genes, thus facilitating the complete cure of diseases. Nuclease-based gene-editing tools, such as zinc fingers, CRISPR-Cas9, and TALENs, are being explored for therapeutic applications, although their potential off-target, cytotoxic, and/or immunogenic effects may hinder their in vivo applications. Therefore, this review is aimed at describing the ongoing progress in TFO and PNA technologies, which can be symbiotic genome-targeting tools that will cause a near-future paradigm shift in drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Mikame
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyomachi, Nagasaki 852-8521, Japan
| | - Asako Yamayoshi
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyomachi, Nagasaki 852-8521, Japan
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8
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Leenaars C, Häger C, Stafleu F, Nieraad H, Bleich A. A Systematic Review of the Effect of Cystic Fibrosis Treatments on the Nasal Potential Difference Test in Animals and Humans. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:3098. [PMID: 37835841 PMCID: PMC10572895 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13193098] [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: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 08/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
To address unmet treatment needs in cystic fibrosis (CF), preclinical and clinical studies are warranted. Because it directly reflects the function of the Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane conductance Regulator (CFTR), the nasal potential difference test (nPD) can not only be used as a reliable diagnostic test for CF but also to assess efficacy of experimental treatments. We performed a full comprehensive systematic review of the effect of CF treatments on the nPD compared to control conditions tested in separate groups of animal and human subjects. Our review followed a preregistered protocol. We included 34 references: 20 describing mouse studies, 12 describing human studies, and 2 describing both. We provide a comprehensive list of these studies, which assessed the effects of antibiotics, bone marrow transplant, CFTR protein, CFTR RNA, directly and indirectly CFTR-targeting drugs, non-viral and viral gene transfer, and other treatments. Our results support the nPD representing a reliable method for testing treatment effects in both animal models and human patients, as well as for diagnosing CF. However, we also observed the need for improved reporting to ensure reproducibility of the experiments and quantitative comparability of the results within and between species (e.g., with meta-analyses). Currently, data gaps warrant further primary studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cathalijn Leenaars
- Institute for Laboratory Animal Science, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Christine Häger
- Institute for Laboratory Animal Science, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Frans Stafleu
- Department of Animals in Science and Society—Human-Animal Relationship, Utrecht University, 3584 CM Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Hendrik Nieraad
- Institute for Laboratory Animal Science, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - André Bleich
- Institute for Laboratory Animal Science, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
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9
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Dubey AK, Mostafavi E. Biomaterials-mediated CRISPR/Cas9 delivery: recent challenges and opportunities in gene therapy. Front Chem 2023; 11:1259435. [PMID: 37841202 PMCID: PMC10568484 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2023.1259435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The use of biomaterials in delivering CRISPR/Cas9 for gene therapy in infectious diseases holds tremendous potential. This innovative approach combines the advantages of CRISPR/Cas9 with the protective properties of biomaterials, enabling accurate and efficient gene editing while enhancing safety. Biomaterials play a vital role in shielding CRISPR/Cas9 components, such as lipid nanoparticles or viral vectors, from immunological processes and degradation, extending their effectiveness. By utilizing the flexibility of biomaterials, tailored systems can be designed to address specific genetic diseases, paving the way for personalized therapeutics. Furthermore, this delivery method offers promising avenues in combating viral illnesses by precisely modifying pathogen genomes, and reducing their pathogenicity. Biomaterials facilitate site-specific gene modifications, ensuring effective delivery to infected cells while minimizing off-target effects. However, challenges remain, including optimizing delivery efficiency, reducing off-target effects, ensuring long-term safety, and establishing scalable production techniques. Thorough research, pre-clinical investigations, and rigorous safety evaluations are imperative for successful translation from the laboratory to clinical applications. In this review, we discussed how CRISPR/Cas9 delivery using biomaterials revolutionizes gene therapy and infectious disease treatment, offering precise and safe editing capabilities with the potential to significantly improve human health and quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankit Kumar Dubey
- Global Research and Publishing Foundation, New Delhi, India
- Institute of Scholars, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Ebrahim Mostafavi
- Stanford Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
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10
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Oliver KE, Carlon MS, Pedemonte N, Lopes-Pacheco M. The revolution of personalized pharmacotherapies for cystic fibrosis: what does the future hold? Expert Opin Pharmacother 2023; 24:1545-1565. [PMID: 37379072 PMCID: PMC10528905 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2023.2230129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cystic fibrosis (CF), a potentially fatal genetic disease, is caused by loss-of-function mutations in the gene encoding for the CFTR chloride/bicarbonate channel. Modulator drugs rescuing mutant CFTR traffic and function are now in the clinic, providing unprecedented breakthrough therapies for people with CF (PwCF) carrying specific genotypes. However, several CFTR variants are unresponsive to these therapies. AREA COVERED We discussed several therapeutic approaches that are under development to tackle the fundamental cause of CF, including strategies targeting defective CFTR mRNA and/or protein expression and function. Alternatively, defective chloride secretion and dehydration in CF epithelia could be restored by exploiting pharmacological modulation of alternative targets, i.e., ion channels/transporters that concur with CFTR to maintain the airway surface liquid homeostasis (e.g., ENaC, TMEM16A, SLC26A4, SLC26A9, and ATP12A). Finally, we assessed progress and challenges in the development of gene-based therapies to replace or correct the mutant CFTR gene. EXPERT OPINION CFTR modulators are benefiting many PwCF responsive to these drugs, yielding substantial improvements in various clinical outcomes. Meanwhile, the CF therapy development pipeline continues to expand with the development of novel CFTR modulators and alternative therapeutic strategies with the ultimate goal of providing effective therapies for all PwCF in the foreseeable future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn E. Oliver
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Center for Cystic Fibrosis and Airways Disease Research, Emory University and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Marianne S. Carlon
- Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases and Thoracic Surgery (BREATHE), Department of Chronic Diseases and Metabolism, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Center for Molecular Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | - Miquéias Lopes-Pacheco
- Biosystems & Integrative Sciences Institute (BioISI), Faculty of Sciences, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
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11
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Richfield O, Piotrowski-Daspit AS, Shin K, Saltzman WM. Rational nanoparticle design: Optimization using insights from experiments and mathematical models. J Control Release 2023; 360:772-783. [PMID: 37442201 PMCID: PMC10529591 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2023.07.018] [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] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
Polymeric nanoparticles are highly tunable drug delivery systems that show promise in targeting therapeutics to specific sites within the body. Rational nanoparticle design can make use of mathematical models to organize and extend experimental data, allowing for optimization of nanoparticles for particular drug delivery applications. While rational nanoparticle design is attractive from the standpoint of improving therapy and reducing unnecessary experiments, it has yet to be fully realized. The difficulty lies in the complexity of nanoparticle structure and behavior, which is added to the complexity of the physiological mechanisms involved in nanoparticle distribution throughout the body. In this review, we discuss the most important aspects of rational design of polymeric nanoparticles. Ultimately, we conclude that many experimental datasets are required to fully model polymeric nanoparticle behavior at multiple scales. Further, we suggest ways to consider the limitations and uncertainty of experimental data in creating nanoparticle design optimization schema, which we call quantitative nanoparticle design frameworks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Owen Richfield
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | | | - Kwangsoo Shin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - W Mark Saltzman
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA; Department of Cellular & Molecular Physiology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA; Department of Chemical & Environmental Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA; Department of Dermatology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA.
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12
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Wang G. Genome Editing for Cystic Fibrosis. Cells 2023; 12:1555. [PMID: 37371025 PMCID: PMC10297084 DOI: 10.3390/cells12121555] [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: 04/01/2023] [Revised: 05/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a monogenic recessive genetic disorder caused by mutations in the CF Transmembrane-conductance Regulator gene (CFTR). Remarkable progress in basic research has led to the discovery of highly effective CFTR modulators. Now ~90% of CF patients are treatable. However, these modulator therapies are not curative and do not cover the full spectrum of CFTR mutations. Thus, there is a continued need to develop a complete and durable therapy that can treat all CF patients once and for all. As CF is a genetic disease, the ultimate therapy would be in-situ repair of the genetic lesions in the genome. Within the past few years, new technologies, such as CRISPR/Cas gene editing, have emerged as an appealing platform to revise the genome, ushering in a new era of genetic therapy. This review provided an update on this rapidly evolving field and the status of adapting the technology for CF therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guoshun Wang
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, CSRB 607, 533 Bolivar Street, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
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13
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Cadoni E, De Paepe L, Colpaert G, Tack R, Waegeman D, Manicardi A, Madder A. A red light-triggered chemical tool for sequence-specific alkylation of G-quadruplex and I-motif DNA. Nucleic Acids Res 2023; 51:4112-4125. [PMID: 36971129 PMCID: PMC10201448 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkad189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The importance of non-canonical DNA structures such as G-quadruplexes (G4) and intercalating-motifs (iMs) in the fine regulation of a variety of cellular processes has been recently demonstrated. As the crucial roles of these structures are being unravelled, it is becoming more and more important to develop tools that allow targeting these structures with the highest possible specificity. While targeting methodologies have been reported for G4s, this is not the case for iMs, as evidenced by the limited number of specific ligands able to bind the latter and the total absence of selective alkylating agents for their covalent targeting. Furthermore, strategies for the sequence-specific covalent targeting of G4s and iMs have not been reported thus far. Herein, we describe a simple methodology to achieve sequence-specific covalent targeting of G4 and iM DNA structures based on the combination of (i) a peptide nucleic acid (PNA) recognizing a specific sequence of interest, (ii) a pro-reactive moiety enabling a controlled alkylation reaction, and (iii) a G4 or iM ligand orienting the alkylating warhead to the reactive residues. This multi-component system allows for the targeting of specific G4 or iM sequences of interest in the presence of competing DNA sequences and under biologically relevant conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrico Cadoni
- Organic and Biomimetic Chemistry Research Group, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S4, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Lessandro De Paepe
- Organic and Biomimetic Chemistry Research Group, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S4, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Gertjan Colpaert
- Organic and Biomimetic Chemistry Research Group, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S4, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Ruben Tack
- Organic and Biomimetic Chemistry Research Group, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S4, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Dries Waegeman
- Organic and Biomimetic Chemistry Research Group, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S4, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Alex Manicardi
- Organic and Biomimetic Chemistry Research Group, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S4, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Annemieke Madder
- Organic and Biomimetic Chemistry Research Group, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S4, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
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14
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Son H, Shin J, Park J. Recent progress in nanomedicine-mediated cytosolic delivery. RSC Adv 2023; 13:9788-9799. [PMID: 36998521 PMCID: PMC10043881 DOI: 10.1039/d2ra07111h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Cytosolic delivery of bioactive agents has exhibited great potential to cure undruggable targets and diseases. Because biological cell membranes are a natural barrier for living cells, efficient delivery methods are required to transfer bioactive and therapeutic agents into the cytosol. Various strategies that do not require cell invasive and harmful processes, such as endosomal escape, cell-penetrating peptides, stimuli-sensitive delivery, and fusogenic liposomes, have been developed for cytosolic delivery. Nanoparticles can easily display functionalization ligands on their surfaces, enabling many bio-applications for cytosolic delivery of various cargo, including genes, proteins, and small-molecule drugs. Cytosolic delivery uses nanoparticle-based delivery systems to avoid degradation of proteins and keep the functionality of other bioactive molecules, and functionalization of nanoparticle-based delivery vehicles imparts a specific targeting ability. With these advantages, nanomedicines have been used for organelle-specific tagging, vaccine delivery for enhanced immunotherapy, and intracellular delivery of proteins and genes. Optimization of the size, surface charges, specific targeting ability, and composition of nanoparticles is needed for various cargos and target cells. Toxicity issues with the nanoparticle material must be managed to enable clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hangyu Son
- Department of Medical Life Sciences, Department of Biomedicine & Health Sciences, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea 222 Banpo-daero, Seocho-gu Seoul 06591 Republic of Korea
| | - Jeongsu Shin
- Department of Medical Life Sciences, Department of Biomedicine & Health Sciences, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea 222 Banpo-daero, Seocho-gu Seoul 06591 Republic of Korea
| | - Joonhyuck Park
- Department of Medical Life Sciences, Department of Biomedicine & Health Sciences, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea 222 Banpo-daero, Seocho-gu Seoul 06591 Republic of Korea
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15
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Li Y, Cao S, Li Q, Li H, Yu L, Shao B, Yuan Q, Zou S, Zhou C. Engineered Plant Virus Complexes with a RANK Motif Modulator and Bone Targeting for Osteoporosis Treatment. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2023; 15:11485-11495. [PMID: 36821292 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c19632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Osteoporosis is a systemic skeletal disorder characterized by excessive osteoclastic bone resorption and impaired osteoblastic bone formation. Traditional delivery of antiresorptive drugs lacks a specific biodistribution in the body and may cause adverse effects to the patients. In this study, the peptide BTRM is first synthesized consisting of the bone-targeting peptide Asp8 (BT) and the peptide derived from the amino acid sequences of RANK Motif2/3 (RM), two cytoplasmic RANK motifs (PVQEET560-565 and PVQEQG604-609) that have been reported to play an important role in osteoclastogenesis. Then, BTRM is conjugated on the plant virus-like nanoparticles (VNPs) obtained from cowpea chlorotic mottle viruses (CCMVs), forming the engineered plant viruses BTRM-VNPs. In vitro experiments demonstrate that BTRM-VNPs can effectively and safely inhibit osteoclast differentiation and function. Moreover, after injection into ovariectomized mice, BTRM-VNPs show excellent capability to target bone tissue and improve osteoporotic bone loss. Collectively, the findings may provide a novel and promising strategy in the treatment of osteoporotic defects via targeting bone tissue and regulating the function of RANK Motif2/3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuyu Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuqin Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiwen Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, People's Republic of China
| | - Hanwen Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, People's Republic of China
| | - Leixiao Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, People's Republic of China
| | - Bin Shao
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, People's Republic of China
| | - Quan Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, People's Republic of China
| | - Shujuan Zou
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, People's Republic of China
| | - Chenchen Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, People's Republic of China
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16
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Jackson JJ, Mao Y, White TR, Foye C, Oliver KE. Features of CFTR mRNA and implications for therapeutics development. Front Genet 2023; 14:1166529. [PMID: 37168508 PMCID: PMC10165737 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2023.1166529] [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: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an autosomal recessive disease impacting ∼100,000 people worldwide. This lethal disorder is caused by mutation of the CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene, which encodes an ATP-binding cassette-class C protein. More than 2,100 variants have been identified throughout the length of CFTR. These defects confer differing levels of severity in mRNA and/or protein synthesis, folding, gating, and turnover. Drug discovery efforts have resulted in recent development of modulator therapies that improve clinical outcomes for people living with CF. However, a significant portion of the CF population has demonstrated either no response and/or adverse reactions to small molecules. Additional therapeutic options are needed to restore underlying genetic defects for all patients, particularly individuals carrying rare or refractory CFTR variants. Concerted focus has been placed on rescuing variants that encode truncated CFTR protein, which also harbor abnormalities in mRNA synthesis and stability. The current mini-review provides an overview of CFTR mRNA features known to elicit functional consequences on final protein conformation and function, including considerations for RNA-directed therapies under investigation. Alternative exon usage in the 5'-untranslated region, polypyrimidine tracts, and other sequence elements that influence splicing are discussed. Additionally, we describe mechanisms of CFTR mRNA decay and post-transcriptional regulation mediated through interactions with the 3'-untranslated region (e.g. poly-uracil sequences, microRNAs). Contributions of synonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms to CFTR transcript utilization are also examined. Comprehensive understanding of CFTR RNA biology will be imperative for optimizing future therapeutic endeavors intended to address presently untreatable forms of CF.
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Affiliation(s)
- JaNise J. Jackson
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Center for Cystic Fibrosis and Airways Disease Research, Emory University and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Yiyang Mao
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Center for Cystic Fibrosis and Airways Disease Research, Emory University and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Tyshawn R. White
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Center for Cystic Fibrosis and Airways Disease Research, Emory University and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Catherine Foye
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Center for Cystic Fibrosis and Airways Disease Research, Emory University and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Kathryn E. Oliver
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Center for Cystic Fibrosis and Airways Disease Research, Emory University and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, United States
- *Correspondence: Kathryn E. Oliver,
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17
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Brat K, Doubková M, Bratová M, Šťastná N, Wallenfels J, Peterová IČ. News in respiratory medicine. VNITRNI LEKARSTVI 2023; 69:329-334. [PMID: 37827832 DOI: 10.36290/vnl.2023.064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
Pneumology and phthisiology (respiratory medicine) has undergone dynamic development in the last two decades. The main focus of pulmonology in the past was care for patients with tuberculosis and pneumonia. Since then, respiratory medicine evolved and the current focus is on chronic pulmonary diseases, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, bronchial asthma, interstitial lung diseases, but also on acute lung conditions (e.g., pneumonia, pleural diseases, respiratory failure), pneumooncology or highly specialized care for rare lung diseases (e.g., cystic fibrosis, rare interstitial diseases). Bronchology, interventional pneumology and pulmonary function testing are also important components of respiratory medicine. The importance of respiratory medicine was apparent during the COVID-19 pandemic. In this article, we provide a brief overview of the most important news to the field of respiratory medicine in the year 2022, addressing the thematic areas of bronchology, cystic fibrosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, interstitial lung diseases, pleural diseases, pneumooncology, tuberculosis and non-tuberculous mycobacteria.
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18
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MicroRNAs miR-584-5p and miR-425-3p Are Up-Regulated in Plasma of Colorectal Cancer (CRC) Patients: Targeting with Inhibitor Peptide Nucleic Acids Is Associated with Induction of Apoptosis in Colon Cancer Cell Lines. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 15:cancers15010128. [PMID: 36612125 PMCID: PMC9817681 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15010128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Liquid biopsy has dramatically changed cancer management in the last decade; however, despite the huge number of miRNA signatures available for diagnostic or prognostic purposes, it is still unclear if dysregulated miRNAs in the bloodstream could be used to develop miRNA-based therapeutic approaches. In one author's previous work, nine miRNAs were found to be dysregulated in early-stage colon cancer (CRC) patients by NGS analysis followed by RT-dd-PCR validation. In the present study, the biological effects of the targeting of the most relevant dysregulated miRNAs with anti-miRNA peptide nucleic acids (PNAs) were verified, and their anticancer activity in terms of apoptosis induction was evaluated. Our data demonstrate that targeting bloodstream up-regulated miRNAs using anti-miRNA PNAs leads to the down-regulation of target miRNAs associated with inhibition of the activation of the pro-apoptotic pathway in CRC cellular models. Moreover, very high percentages of apoptotic cells were found when the anti-miRNA PNAs were associated with other pro-apoptotic agents, such as sulforaphane (SFN). The presented data sustain the idea that the targeting of miRNAs up-regulated in the bloodstream with a known role in tumor pathology might be a tool for the design of protocols for anti-tumor therapy based on miRNA-targeting molecules.
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