1
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Li L, Qin R, Liu Y, Tseng YS, Zhang W, Yu L, Mietzsch M, Zou X, Liu H, Lu G, Hu H, Mckenna R, Yang J, Wei Y, Agbandje-Mckenna M, Hu J, Yang L. Dissecting positive selection events and immunological drives during the evolution of adeno-associated virus lineages. PLoS Pathog 2024; 20:e1012260. [PMID: 38885242 PMCID: PMC11182496 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1012260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV) serotypes from primates are being developed and clinically used as vectors for human gene therapy. However, the evolutionary mechanism of AAV variants is far from being understood, except that genetic recombination plays an important role. Furthermore, little is known about the interaction between AAV and its natural hosts, human and nonhuman primates. In this study, natural AAV capsid genes were subjected to systemic evolutionary analysis with a focus on selection drives during the diversification of AAV lineages. A number of positively selected sites were identified from these AAV lineages with functional relevance implied by their localization on the AAV structures. The selection drives of the two AAV2 capsid sites were further investigated in a series of biological experiments. These observations did not support the evolution of the site 410 of the AAV2 capsid driven by selection pressure from the human CD4+ T-cell response. However, positive selection on site 548 of the AAV2 capsid was directly related to host humoral immunity because of the profound effects of mutations at this site on the immune evasion of AAV variants from human neutralizing antibodies at both the individual and population levels. Overall, this work provides a novel interpretation of the genetic diversity and evolution of AAV lineages in their natural hosts, which may contribute to their further engineering and application in human gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lirong Li
- Department of Cardiology and Laboratory of Gene Therapy for Heart Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Runkuan Qin
- Department of Cardiology and Laboratory of Gene Therapy for Heart Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yunbo Liu
- Department of Cardiology and Laboratory of Gene Therapy for Heart Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yu-Shan Tseng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Center for Structural Biology, The McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Weihan Zhang
- General Surgery Department, Gastric Cancer Center and Laboratory of Gastric Cancer, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Lin Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Mario Mietzsch
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Center for Structural Biology, The McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Xinkai Zou
- Center for Immunology and Hematology, Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Haizhou Liu
- Computational Virology Group, Center for Bacteria and Viruses Resources and Bioinformation, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Guangwen Lu
- Department of Emergency Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Hongbo Hu
- Center for Immunology and Hematology, Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Robert Mckenna
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Center for Structural Biology, The McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Jinliang Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yuquan Wei
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Mavis Agbandje-Mckenna
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Center for Structural Biology, The McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Jiankun Hu
- General Surgery Department, Gastric Cancer Center and Laboratory of Gastric Cancer, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Lin Yang
- Department of Cardiology and Laboratory of Gene Therapy for Heart Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
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2
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Zhou Y, Priya S, Ong JY. Characterizing Glycosylation of Adeno-Associated Virus Serotype 9 Capsid Proteins Generated from HEK293 Cells through Glycopeptide Mapping and Released Glycan Analysis. Microorganisms 2024; 12:946. [PMID: 38792776 PMCID: PMC11123743 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12050946] [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: 04/01/2024] [Revised: 04/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Recombinant adeno-associated viral (AAV) vectors have emerged as prominent gene delivery vehicles for gene therapy. AAV capsid proteins determine tissue specificity and immunogenicity and play important roles in receptor binding, the escape of the virus from the endosome, and the transport of the viral DNA to the nuclei of target cells. Therefore, the comprehensive characterization of AAV capsid proteins is necessary for a better understanding of the vector assembly, stability, and transduction efficiency of AAV gene therapies. Glycosylation is one of the most common post-translational modifications (PTMs) and may affect the tissue tropism of AAV gene therapy. However, there are few studies on the characterization of the N- and O-glycosylation of AAV capsid proteins. In this study, we identified the N- and O-glycosylation sites and forms of AAV9 capsid proteins generated from HEK293 cells using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS)-based glycopeptide mapping and identified free N-glycans released from AAV9 capsid proteins by PNGase F using hydrophilic interaction (HILIC) LC-MS and HILIC LC-fluorescence detection (FLD) methods. This study demonstrates that AAV9 capsids are sprinkled with sugars, including N- and O-glycans, albeit at low levels. It may provide valuable information for a better understanding of AAV capsids in supporting AAV-based gene therapy development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhou
- Analytical Development & Operations, Novartis Pharmaceuticals, 10210 Campus Point Drive, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - Sonal Priya
- Analytical Development & Operations, Novartis Pharmaceuticals, 10210 Campus Point Drive, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - Joseph Y Ong
- Analytical Development & Operations, Novartis Pharmaceuticals, 10210 Campus Point Drive, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
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3
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Loeb EJ, Havlik PL, Elmore ZC, Rosales A, Fergione SM, Gonzalez TJ, Smith TJ, Benkert AR, Fiflis DN, Asokan A. Capsid-mediated control of adeno-associated viral transcription determines host range. Cell Rep 2024; 43:113902. [PMID: 38431840 PMCID: PMC11150003 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.113902] [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: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV) is a member of the genus Dependoparvovirus, which infects a wide range of vertebrate species. Here, we observe that, unlike most primate AAV isolates, avian AAV is transcriptionally silenced in human cells. By swapping the VP1 N terminus from primate AAVs (e.g., AAV8) onto non-mammalian isolates (e.g., avian AAV), we identify a minimal component of the AAV capsid that controls viral transcription and unlocks robust transduction in both human cells and mouse tissue. This effect is accompanied by increased AAV genome chromatin accessibility and altered histone methylation. Proximity ligation analysis reveals that host factors are selectively recruited by the VP1 N terminus of AAV8 but not avian AAV. Notably, these include AAV essential factors implicated in the nuclear factor κB pathway, chromatin condensation, and histone methylation. We postulate that the AAV capsid has evolved mechanisms to recruit host factors to its genome, allowing transcriptional activation in a species-specific manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ezra J Loeb
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Patrick L Havlik
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Zachary C Elmore
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Alan Rosales
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Sophia M Fergione
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Trevor J Gonzalez
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Timothy J Smith
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Abigail R Benkert
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - David N Fiflis
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Aravind Asokan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA; Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA; Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA.
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4
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Hoad M, Roby JA, Forwood JK. Structural basis for nuclear import of bat adeno-associated virus capsid protein. J Gen Virol 2024; 105:001960. [PMID: 38441555 PMCID: PMC10999750 DOI: 10.1099/jgv.0.001960] [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: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Adeno-associated viruses (AAV) are one of the world's most promising gene therapy vectors and as a result, are one of the most intensively studied viral vectors. Despite a wealth of research into these vectors, the precise characterisation of AAVs to translocate into the host cell nucleus remains unclear. Recently we identified the nuclear localization signals of an AAV porcine strain and determined its mechanism of binding to host importin proteins. To expand our understanding of diverse AAV import mechanisms we sought to determine the mechanism in which the Cap protein from a bat-infecting AAV can interact with transport receptor importins for translocation into the nucleus. Using a high-resolution crystal structure and quantitative assays, we were able to not only determine the exact region and residues of the N-terminal domain of the Cap protein which constitute the functional NLS for binding with the importin alpha two protein, but also reveal the differences in binding affinity across the importin-alpha isoforms. Collectively our results allow for a detailed molecular view of the way AAV Cap proteins interact with host proteins for localization into the cell nucleus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikayla Hoad
- School of Dentistry and Medical Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW, 2678, Australia
| | - Justin A. Roby
- School of Dentistry and Medical Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW, 2678, Australia
- Gulbali Institute, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW, 2678, Australia
| | - Jade K. Forwood
- School of Dentistry and Medical Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW, 2678, Australia
- Gulbali Institute, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW, 2678, Australia
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5
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Guapo F, Donohue N, Strasser L, Boi S, Füssl F, Rainbow-Fletcher A, Getty P, Anderson I, Barron N, Bones J. A Direct Comparison of rAAV5 Variants Derived from the Baculovirus Expression System Using LC-MS Workflows Demonstrates Key Differences in Overall Production Yield, Product Quality and Vector Efficiency. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2785. [PMID: 38474031 PMCID: PMC10932283 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052785] [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: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Gene therapy holds great promise for the treatment of severe diseases, and adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors have emerged as valuable tools in this field. However, challenges such as immunogenicity and high production costs complicate the commercial viability of AAV-based therapies. To overcome these barriers, improvements in production yield, driven through the availability of robust and sensitive characterization techniques that allow for the monitoring of critical quality attributes to deepen product and process understanding are crucial. Among the main attributes affecting viral production and performance, the ratio between empty and full capsids along with capsid protein stoichiometry are emerging as potential parameters affecting product quality and safety. This study focused on the production of AAV vectors using the baculovirus expression vector system (BEVS) in Sf9 cells and the complete characterization of AAV5 variants using novel liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry techniques (LC-MS) that, up to this point, had only been applied to reference commercially produced virions. When comparing virions produced using ATG, CTG or ACG start codons of the cap gene, we determined that although ACG was the most productive in terms of virus yield, it was also the least effective in transducing mammalian cells. This correlated with a low VP1/VP2 ratio and a higher percentage of empty capsids. Overall, this study provides insights into the impact of translational start codon modifications during rAAV5 production using the BEVS, the associated relationship with capsid packaging, capsid protein stoichiometry and potency. The developed characterization workflow using LC-MS offers a comprehensive and transferable analysis of AAV-based gene therapies, with the potential to aid in process optimization and facilitate the large-scale commercial manufacturing of these promising treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felipe Guapo
- National Institute for Bioprocessing Research and Training, Foster Avenue, Mount Merrion, Blackrock, A94 X099 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Nicholas Donohue
- National Institute for Bioprocessing Research and Training, Foster Avenue, Mount Merrion, Blackrock, A94 X099 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Lisa Strasser
- National Institute for Bioprocessing Research and Training, Foster Avenue, Mount Merrion, Blackrock, A94 X099 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Stefano Boi
- National Institute for Bioprocessing Research and Training, Foster Avenue, Mount Merrion, Blackrock, A94 X099 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Florian Füssl
- National Institute for Bioprocessing Research and Training, Foster Avenue, Mount Merrion, Blackrock, A94 X099 Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Paul Getty
- Pharmaron, 12 Estuary Banks, Speke, Liverpool L24 8RB, UK
| | - Ian Anderson
- Pharmaron, 12 Estuary Banks, Speke, Liverpool L24 8RB, UK
| | - Niall Barron
- National Institute for Bioprocessing Research and Training, Foster Avenue, Mount Merrion, Blackrock, A94 X099 Dublin, Ireland
- School of Chemical and Bioprocess Engineering, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, D04 V1W8 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Jonathan Bones
- National Institute for Bioprocessing Research and Training, Foster Avenue, Mount Merrion, Blackrock, A94 X099 Dublin, Ireland
- School of Chemical and Bioprocess Engineering, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, D04 V1W8 Dublin, Ireland
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6
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Sarkar SN, Corbin D, Simpkins JW. Brain-Wide Transgene Expression in Mice by Systemic Injection of Genetically Engineered Exosomes: CAP-Exosomes. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:270. [PMID: 38543056 PMCID: PMC10976217 DOI: 10.3390/ph17030270] [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: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/01/2024] Open
Abstract
The bottleneck in drug discovery for central nervous system diseases is the absence of effective systemic drug delivery technology for delivering therapeutic drugs into the brain. Despite the advances in the technology used in drug discovery, such as Adeno-Associated Virus (AAV) vectors, the development of drugs for central nervous system diseases remains challenging. In this manuscript, we describe, for the first time, the development of a workflow to generate a novel brain-targeted drug delivery system that involves the generation of genetically engineered exosomes by first selecting various functional AAV capsid-specific peptides (collectively called CAPs) known to be involved in brain-targeted high-expression gene delivery, and then expressing the CAPs in frame with lysosome-associated membrane glycoprotein (Lamp2b) followed by expressing CAP-Lamp2b fusion protein on the surface of mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes, thus generating CAP-exosomes. Intravenous injection of green fluorescent protein (GFP) gene-loaded CAP-exosomes in mice transferred the GFP gene throughout the CNS as measured by monitoring brain sections for GFP expression with confocal microscopy. GFP gene transfer efficiency was at least 20-fold greater than that of the control Lamp2b-exosomes, and GFP gene transduction to mouse liver was low.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - James W. Simpkins
- Department of Neuroscience, Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute, School of Medicine, West Virginia University, 1 Medical Center Drive, 5, Morgantown, WV 265056, USA; (S.N.S.); (D.C.)
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7
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Onishi T, Nonaka M, Maruno T, Yamaguchi Y, Fukuhara M, Torisu T, Maeda M, Abbatiello S, Haris A, Richardson K, Giles K, Preece S, Yamano-Adachi N, Omasa T, Uchiyama S. Enhancement of recombinant adeno-associated virus activity by improved stoichiometry and homogeneity of capsid protein assembly. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2023; 31:101142. [PMID: 38027055 PMCID: PMC10663676 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2023.101142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Studies of recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) revealed the mixture of full particles with different densities in rAAV. There are no conclusive results because of the lack of quantitative stoichiometric viral proteins, encapsidated DNA, and particle level analyses. We report the first comprehensive characterization of low- and high-density rAAV serotype 2 particles. Capillary gel electrophoresis showed high-density particles possessing a designed DNA encapsidated in the capsid composed of (VP1 + VP2)/VP3 = 0.27, whereas low-density particles have the same DNA but with a different capsid composition of (VP1 + VP2)/VP3 = 0.31, supported by sedimentation velocity-analytical ultracentrifugation and charge detection-mass spectrometry. In vitro analysis demonstrated that the low-density particles had 8.9% higher transduction efficacy than that of the particles before fractionation. Further, based on our recent findings of VP3 clip, we created rAAV2 single amino acid variants of the transcription start methionine of VP3 (M203V) and VP3 clip (M211V). The rAAV2-M203V variant had homogeneous particles with higher (VP1+VP2)/VP3 values (0.35) and demonstrated 24.7% higher transduction efficacy compared with the wild type. This study successfully provided highly functional rAAV by the extensive fractionation from the mixture of rAAV2 full particles or by the single amino acid replacement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takayuki Onishi
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Michika Nonaka
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Takahiro Maruno
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
- U-Medico Inc, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Yuki Yamaguchi
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Mitsuko Fukuhara
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
- U-Medico Inc, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Tetsuo Torisu
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Masaharu Maeda
- Osaka Consolidated Laboratory, Manufacturing Technology Association of Biologics, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | | | | | - Keith Richardson
- Waters Corporation (Micromass UK Ltd), Stamford Avenue, Altrincham Road, Wilmslow SK9 4AX, UK
| | | | - Steve Preece
- Waters Corporation (Micromass UK Ltd), Stamford Avenue, Altrincham Road, Wilmslow SK9 4AX, UK
| | - Noriko Yamano-Adachi
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Takeshi Omasa
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Susumu Uchiyama
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
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8
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Hsi J, Mietzsch M, Chipman P, Afione S, Zeher A, Huang R, Chiorini J, McKenna R. Structural and antigenic characterization of the avian adeno-associated virus capsid. J Virol 2023; 97:e0078023. [PMID: 37702486 PMCID: PMC10617571 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.00780-23] [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: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE AAVs are extensively studied as promising therapeutic gene delivery vectors. In order to circumvent pre-existing antibodies targeting primate-based AAV capsids, the AAAV capsid was evaluated as an alternative to primate-based therapeutic vectors. Despite the high sequence diversity, the AAAV capsid was found to bind to a common glycan receptor, terminal galactose, which is also utilized by other AAVs already being utilized in gene therapy trials. However, contrary to the initial hypothesis, AAAV was recognized by approximately 30% of human sera tested. Structural and sequence comparisons point to conserved epitopes in the fivefold region of the capsid as the reason determinant for the observed cross-reactivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane Hsi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Center for Structural Biology, McKnight Brain Institute, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Mario Mietzsch
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Center for Structural Biology, McKnight Brain Institute, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Paul Chipman
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Center for Structural Biology, McKnight Brain Institute, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Sandra Afione
- National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Allison Zeher
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Bloomberg School for Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Rick Huang
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - John Chiorini
- National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Robert McKenna
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Center for Structural Biology, McKnight Brain Institute, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
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9
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Mietzsch M, Liu W, Ma K, Bennett A, Nelson AR, Gliwa K, Chipman P, Fu X, Bechler S, McKenna R, Viner R. Production and characterization of an AAV1-VP3-only capsid: An analytical benchmark standard. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2023; 29:460-472. [PMID: 37273903 PMCID: PMC10238842 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2023.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) are non-enveloped ssDNA icosahedral T = 1 viruses used as vectors for clinical gene delivery. Currently, there are over 200 AAV-related clinical trials and six approved biologics on the market. As such new analytical methods are continually being developed to characterize and monitor the quality and purity of manufactured AAV vectors, these include ion-exchange chromatography and Direct Mass Technology. However, these methods require homogeneous analytical standards with a high molecular weight standard comparable to the mass of an AAV capsid. Described here is the design, production, purification, characterization, and the cryo-electron microscopy structure of an AAV1-VP3-only capsid that fulfills this need as a calibrant to determine capsid mass, charge, homogeneity, and transgene packaging characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Mietzsch
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Weijing Liu
- Thermo Fisher Scientific, 355 River Oaks Parkway, San Jose, CA 95134, USA
| | - Ke Ma
- Thermo Fisher Scientific, 490 Lakeside Dr., Sunnyvale, CA 94085, USA
| | - Antonette Bennett
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Austin R. Nelson
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Keely Gliwa
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Paul Chipman
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Xiaofeng Fu
- Biological Science Imaging Resource, Department of Biological Sciences, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA
| | - Shane Bechler
- Thermo Fisher Scientific, 490 Lakeside Dr., Sunnyvale, CA 94085, USA
| | - Robert McKenna
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Rosa Viner
- Thermo Fisher Scientific, 355 River Oaks Parkway, San Jose, CA 95134, USA
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10
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Golm SK, Hübner W, Müller KM. Fluorescence Microscopy in Adeno-Associated Virus Research. Viruses 2023; 15:v15051174. [PMID: 37243260 DOI: 10.3390/v15051174] [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: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Research on adeno-associated virus (AAV) and its recombinant vectors as well as on fluorescence microscopy imaging is rapidly progressing driven by clinical applications and new technologies, respectively. The topics converge, since high and super-resolution microscopes facilitate the study of spatial and temporal aspects of cellular virus biology. Labeling methods also evolve and diversify. We review these interdisciplinary developments and provide information on the technologies used and the biological knowledge gained. The emphasis lies on the visualization of AAV proteins by chemical fluorophores, protein fusions and antibodies as well as on methods for the detection of adeno-associated viral DNA. We add a short overview of fluorescent microscope techniques and their advantages and challenges in detecting AAV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne K Golm
- Cellular and Molecular Biotechnology, Faculty of Technology, Bielefeld University, 33615 Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Hübner
- Biomolecular Photonics, Faculty of Physics, Bielefeld University, 33615 Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Kristian M Müller
- Cellular and Molecular Biotechnology, Faculty of Technology, Bielefeld University, 33615 Bielefeld, Germany
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11
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Zhou Y, Wang Y. Direct deamidation analysis of intact adeno-associated virus serotype 9 capsid proteins using reversed-phase liquid chromatography. Anal Biochem 2023; 668:115099. [PMID: 36871622 DOI: 10.1016/j.ab.2023.115099] [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: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2023]
Abstract
Recombinant adeno-associated viral (AAV) vectors have taken center stage as gene delivery vehicles for gene therapy. Asparagine deamidation of AAV capsid proteins has been reported to reduce vector stability and potency of AAV gene therapy products. Deamidation of asparagine residue is a common post-translational modification of proteins that is detected and quantified by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS)-based peptide mapping. However, artificial deamidation can be spontaneously induced during sample preparation for peptide mapping prior to LC-MS analysis. We have developed an optimized sample preparation method to reduce and minimize deamidation artifacts induced during sample preparation for peptide mapping, which typically takes several hours to complete. To shorten turnaround time of deamidation results and to avoid artificial deamidation, we developed orthogonal RPLC-MS and RPLC-fluorescence detection methods for direct deamidation analysis at the intact AAV9 capsid protein level to routinely support downstream purification, formulation development, and stability testing. Similar trends of increasing deamidation of AAV9 capsid proteins in stability samples were observed at the intact protein level and peptide level, indicating that the developed direct deamidation analysis of intact AAV9 capsid proteins is comparable to the peptide mapping-based deamidation analysis and both methods are suitable for deamidation monitoring of AAV9 capsid proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhou
- Analytical Development & Operation, Novartis Pharmaceuticals, 10210 Campus Point Drive, SanDiego, CA92121, USA.
| | - Yueju Wang
- Analytical Development & Operation, Novartis Pharmaceuticals, 10210 Campus Point Drive, SanDiego, CA92121, USA
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12
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Chathoth NE, Nair AG, Anjukandi P. Multifaceted folding-unfolding landscape of the TrpZip2 β-hairpin and the role of external sub-piconewton mechanical tensions. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2023; 25:11093-11101. [PMID: 36938693 DOI: 10.1039/d2cp05770k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/06/2023]
Abstract
Proteins can experience uneven tensions of the order of tens of piconewtons when exposed to different solvent environment due to the thermal motion of the solvent. It is also true that biomolecules, especially proteins, are subjected to a variety of mechanical tensions generated by several factors, including mechanically assisted translocation and pressure gradients within living systems. Here, we use metadynamics simulations to revisit the folding-unfolding of the TrpZip2 β-hairpin and redefine it from the perspective of an external force of a sub-piconewton magnitude acting on the ends of the hairpin. The chosen forces, while preserving the morphology of the β-hairpin chain when it is pulled, are capable of influencing the conformational behavior of the chain during folding and unfolding. Our investigations confirm that the TrpZip2 β-hairpin exhibits a zipper (zip-out) mechanism for folding-unfolding in both mechanically unbiased and biased (with a 30 pN end force) situations. However, it is important to note that they present marked differences in their folding and unfolding paths, with the mechanically biased system capable of becoming trapped in various intermediate states. Both unbiased and biased scenarios of the hairpin indicate that the hairpin turn is highly stable during the folding-unfolding event and initiates folding. More importantly we confirm that the existing heterogeneity in the TrpZip2 β-hairpin folding-unfolding is a consequence of the wide range of conformations observed, owing to the different trapped intermediates caused by the uneven forces it may experience in solution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nayana Edavan Chathoth
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology, Palakkad-678557, Kerala, India.
| | - Aparna G Nair
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology, Palakkad-678557, Kerala, India.
| | - Padmesh Anjukandi
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology, Palakkad-678557, Kerala, India.
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13
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Puzzo F, Zhang C, Powell Gray B, Zhang F, Sullenger BA, Kay MA. Aptamer-programmable adeno-associated viral vectors as a novel platform for cell-specific gene transfer. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2023; 31:383-397. [PMID: 36817723 PMCID: PMC9929486 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2023.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) are commonly used for in vivo gene therapy. Nevertheless, the wide tropism that characterizes these vectors limits specific targeting to a particular cell type or tissue. Here, we developed new chemically modified AAV vectors (Nε-AAVs) displaying a single site substitution on the capsid surface for post-production vector engineering through biorthogonal copper-free click chemistry. We were able to identify AAV vectors that would tolerate the unnatural amino acid substitution on the capsid without disrupting their packaging efficiency. We functionalized the Nε-AAVs through conjugation with DNA (AS1411) or RNA (E3) aptamers or with a folic acid moiety (FA). E3-, AS1411-, and FA-AAVs showed on average a 3- to 9-fold increase in transduction compared with their non-conjugated counterparts in different cancer cell lines. Using specific competitors, we established ligand-specific transduction. In vivo studies confirmed the selective uptake of FA-AAV and AS1411-AAV without off-target transduction in peripheral organs. Overall, the high versatility of these novel Nε-AAVs might pave the way to tailoring gene therapy vectors toward specific types of cells both for ex vivo and in vivo applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Puzzo
- Departments of Pediatrics and Genetics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Chuanling Zhang
- Departments of Pediatrics and Genetics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Bethany Powell Gray
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27705, USA
| | - Feijie Zhang
- Departments of Pediatrics and Genetics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Bruce A. Sullenger
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27705, USA
| | - Mark A. Kay
- Departments of Pediatrics and Genetics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
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14
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Host Cell Restriction Factors Blocking Efficient Vector Transduction: Challenges in Lentiviral and Adeno-Associated Vector Based Gene Therapies. Cells 2023; 12:cells12050732. [PMID: 36899868 PMCID: PMC10001033 DOI: 10.3390/cells12050732] [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: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Gene therapy relies on the delivery of genetic material to the patient's cells in order to provide a therapeutic treatment. Two of the currently most used and efficient delivery systems are the lentiviral (LV) and adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors. Gene therapy vectors must successfully attach, enter uncoated, and escape host restriction factors (RFs), before reaching the nucleus and effectively deliver the therapeutic genetic instructions to the cell. Some of these RFs are ubiquitously expressed in mammalian cells, while others are cell-specific, and others still are expressed only upon induction by danger signals as type I interferons. Cell restriction factors have evolved to protect the organism against infectious diseases and tissue damage. These restriction factors can be intrinsic, directly acting on the vector, or related with the innate immune response system, acting indirectly through the induction of interferons, but both are intertwined. The innate immunity is the first line of defense against pathogens and, as such cells derived from myeloid progenitors (but not only), are well equipped with RFs to detect pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs). In addition, some non-professional cells, such as epithelial cells, endothelial cells, and fibroblasts, play major roles in pathogen recognition. Unsurprisingly, foreign DNA and RNA molecules are among the most detected PAMPs. Here, we review and discuss identified RFs that block LV and AAV vector transduction, hindering their therapeutic efficacy.
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15
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Zane G, Silveria M, Meyer N, White T, Duan R, Zou X, Chapman M. Cryo-EM structure of adeno-associated virus 4 at 2.2 Å resolution. Acta Crystallogr D Struct Biol 2023; 79:140-153. [PMID: 36762860 PMCID: PMC9912921 DOI: 10.1107/s2059798322012190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV) is the vector of choice for several approved gene-therapy treatments and is the basis for many ongoing clinical trials. Various strains of AAV exist (referred to as serotypes), each with their own transfection characteristics. Here, a high-resolution cryo-electron microscopy structure (2.2 Å) of AAV serotype 4 (AAV4) is presented. The receptor responsible for transduction of the AAV4 clade of AAV viruses (including AAV11, AAV12 and AAVrh32.33) is unknown. Other AAVs interact with the same cell receptor, adeno-associated virus receptor (AAVR), in one of two different ways. AAV5-like viruses interact exclusively with the polycystic kidney disease-like 1 (PKD1) domain of AAVR, while most other AAVs interact primarily with the PKD2 domain. A comparison of the present AAV4 structure with prior corresponding structures of AAV5, AAV2 and AAV1 in complex with AAVR provides a foundation for understanding why the AAV4-like clade is unable to interact with either PKD1 or PKD2 of AAVR. The conformation of the AAV4 capsid in variable regions I, III, IV and V on the viral surface appears to be sufficiently different from AAV2 to ablate binding with PKD2. Differences between AAV4 and AAV5 in variable region VII appear to be sufficient to exclude binding with PKD1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grant Zane
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Mark Silveria
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Nancy Meyer
- Center for Spatial Systems Biomedicine, Oregon Health Sciences University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Tommi White
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
- Bayer Crop Science, Bayer (United States), Chesterfield, MO 63017, USA
- Electron Microscopy Core, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Rui Duan
- Dalton Cardiovascular Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Xiaoqin Zou
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
- Dalton Cardiovascular Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
- Department of Physics, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
- Institute for Data Science and Informatics, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Michael Chapman
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
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16
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Arriaga I, Navarro A, Etxabe A, Trigueros C, Samulski RJ, Moullier P, François A, Abrescia NGA. Cellular and Structural Characterization of VP1 and VP2 Knockout Mutants of AAV3B Serotype and Implications for AAV Manufacturing. Hum Gene Ther 2022; 33:1142-1156. [PMID: 36082996 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2022.119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AAV virion biology is still lacking a complete understanding of the role that the various structural subunits (VP1, 2, and 3) play in virus assembly, infectivity, and therapeutic delivery for clinical indications. In this study, we focus on the less studied adeno-associated virus AAV3B and generate a collection of AAV plasmid substrates that assemble virion particles deficient specifically in VP1, VP2, or VP1 and 2 structural subunits. Using a collection of biological and structural assays, we observed that virions devoid of VP1, VP2, or VP1 and 2 efficiently assembled virion particles, indistinguishable by cryoelectron microscopy (cryo-EM) from that of wild type (WT), but unique in virion transduction (WT > VP2 > VP1 > VP1 and 2 mutants). We also observed that the missing structural subunit was mostly compensated by additional VP3 protomers in the formed virion particle. Using cryo-EM analysis, virions fell into three classes, namely full, empty, and partially filled, based on comparison of density values within the capsid. Further, we characterize virions described as "broken" or "disassembled" particles, and provide structural information that supports the particle dissolution occurring through the two-fold symmetry sites. Finally, we highlight the unique value of employing cryo-EM as an essential tool for release criteria with respect to AAV manufacturing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iker Arriaga
- Structure and Cell Biology of Viruses Lab, CIC bioGUNE, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Derio, Spain
| | | | | | | | - R Jude Samulski
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | | | | | - Nicola G A Abrescia
- Structure and Cell Biology of Viruses Lab, CIC bioGUNE, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Derio, Spain.,Ikerbasque, Basque Foundation for Science, Bilbao, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
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17
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Zarei M, Jonveaux J, Wang P, Haller FM, Gu B, Koulov AV, Jahn M. Proteomic Analysis of Adenovirus 5 by UHPLC-MS/MS: Development of a Robust and Reproducible Sample Preparation Workflow. ACS OMEGA 2022; 7:36825-36835. [PMID: 36278084 PMCID: PMC9583333 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.2c05325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Adenoviruses (AdVs) have recently become widely used therapeutic vectors for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) vaccine. AdVs are large, nonenveloped viruses with an icosahedral capsid formed from several proteins that encloses double-stranded DNA. These proteins are the main components and key players in initial stages of infection by the virus particles, so their heterogeneity and content must be evaluated to ensure product and process consistency. Peptide mapping can provide detailed information on these proteins, e.g., their amino acid sequences and post-translational modifications (PTMs), which is crucial for the development and optimization of the manufacturing processes. However, sample preparation remains the main bottleneck for successful proteomic analysis of the viral proteins (VPs) of AdVs due to their low concentrations and vast stoichiometric ranges. To address this problem, we have developed a fast and efficient protocol for preparing samples for proteomic analysis of VPs of AdV5 that requires no cleaning step prior to liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The approach enabled identification of 92% of amino acids in AdV5 VPs on average and quantification of 53 PTMs in a single LC-MS/MS experiment using trypsin protease. The data obtained demonstrate the method's potential utility for supporting the development of novel AdV-based gene therapy products (GTPs).
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Affiliation(s)
- Mostafa Zarei
- Drug
Product Services, Lonza AG, Hochbergerstrasse 60G, CH-4057 Basel, Switzerland
- . Tel: +41 613168798. Fax: +41 61 316 9162
| | - Jérôme Jonveaux
- Drug
Product Services, Lonza AG, Hochbergerstrasse 60G, CH-4057 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Peng Wang
- Lonza
Houston, Inc. 14905 Kirby
Drive, Houston, Texas 77047, United States
| | | | - Bingnan Gu
- Lonza
Houston, Inc. 14905 Kirby
Drive, Houston, Texas 77047, United States
| | - Atanas V. Koulov
- Drug
Product Services, Lonza AG, Hochbergerstrasse 60G, CH-4057 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Michael Jahn
- Drug
Product Services, Lonza AG, Hochbergerstrasse 60G, CH-4057 Basel, Switzerland
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18
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Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV) has a single-stranded DNA genome encapsidated in a small icosahedrally symmetric protein shell with 60 subunits. AAV is the leading delivery vector in emerging gene therapy treatments for inherited disorders, so its structure and molecular interactions with human hosts are of intense interest. A wide array of electron microscopic approaches have been used to visualize the virus and its complexes, depending on the scientific question, technology available, and amenability of the sample. Approaches range from subvolume tomographic analyses of complexes with large and flexible host proteins to detailed analysis of atomic interactions within the virus and with small ligands at resolutions as high as 1.6 Å. Analyses have led to the reclassification of glycan receptors as attachment factors, to structures with a new-found receptor protein, to identification of the epitopes of antibodies, and a new understanding of possible neutralization mechanisms. AAV is now well-enough characterized that it has also become a model system for EM methods development. Heralding a new era, cryo-EM is now also being deployed as an analytic tool in the process development and production quality control of high value pharmaceutical biologics, namely AAV vectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott
M. Stagg
- Department
of Biological Sciences, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida 32306, United States
- Institute
of Molecular Biophysics, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida 32306, United States
| | - Craig Yoshioka
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering, Oregon Health
& Science University, Portland Oregon 97239, United States
| | - Omar Davulcu
- Environmental
Molecular Sciences Laboratory, Pacific Northwest
National Laboratory, 3335 Innovation Boulevard, Richland, Washington 99354, United States
| | - Michael S. Chapman
- Department
of Biochemistry, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri 65211, United States
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19
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Smith LJ, Schulman LA, Smith S, Van Lieshout L, Barnes CM, Behmoiras L, Scarpitti M, Kivaa M, Duong KL, Benard LO, Ellsworth JL, Avila N, Faulkner D, Hayes A, Lotterhand J, Rivas JI, Sengooba AV, Tzianabos A, Seymour AB, Francone OL. Natural variations in AAVHSC16 significantly reduce liver tropism and maintain broad distribution to periphery and CNS. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2022; 26:224-238. [PMID: 35859693 PMCID: PMC9287613 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2022.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Adeno-associated viruses derived from human hematopoietic stem cells (AAVHSCs) are naturally occurring AAVs. Fifteen AAVHSCs have demonstrated broad biodistribution while displaying differences in transduction. We examine the structure-function relationships of these natural amino acid variations on cellular binding. We demonstrate that AAVHSC16 is the only AAVHSC that does not preferentially bind to terminal galactose. AAVHSC16 contains two unique amino acids, 501I and 706C, compared with other AAVHSCs. Through mutagenesis, we determined that residue 501 contributes to the lack of galactose binding. Structural analysis revealed that residue 501 is in proximity to the galactose binding pocket, hence confirming its functional role in galactose binding. Biodistribution analysis of AAVHSC16 indicated significantly less liver tropism in mice and non-human primates compared with other clade F members, likely associated with overall binding differences observed in vitro. AAVHSC16 maintained robust tropism to other key tissues in the peripheral and central nervous systems after intravenous injection, including to the brain, heart, and gastrocnemius. Importantly, AAVHSC16 did not induce elevated liver enzyme levels in non-human primates after intravenous injection at high doses. The unique glycan binding and tropism of AAVHSC16 makes this naturally occurring capsid an attractive candidate for therapies requiring less liver tropism while maintaining broad biodistribution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura J Smith
- Homology Medicines, Inc., 1 Patriots Park, Bedford, MA 01730, USA
| | | | - Samantha Smith
- Homology Medicines, Inc., 1 Patriots Park, Bedford, MA 01730, USA
| | | | - Carmen M Barnes
- Homology Medicines, Inc., 1 Patriots Park, Bedford, MA 01730, USA
| | - Liana Behmoiras
- Homology Medicines, Inc., 1 Patriots Park, Bedford, MA 01730, USA
| | - Meghan Scarpitti
- Homology Medicines, Inc., 1 Patriots Park, Bedford, MA 01730, USA
| | - Monicah Kivaa
- Homology Medicines, Inc., 1 Patriots Park, Bedford, MA 01730, USA
| | - Khanh L Duong
- Homology Medicines, Inc., 1 Patriots Park, Bedford, MA 01730, USA
| | - Ludo O Benard
- Homology Medicines, Inc., 1 Patriots Park, Bedford, MA 01730, USA
| | - Jeff L Ellsworth
- Homology Medicines, Inc., 1 Patriots Park, Bedford, MA 01730, USA
| | - Nancy Avila
- Homology Medicines, Inc., 1 Patriots Park, Bedford, MA 01730, USA
| | - Deiby Faulkner
- Homology Medicines, Inc., 1 Patriots Park, Bedford, MA 01730, USA
| | - April Hayes
- Homology Medicines, Inc., 1 Patriots Park, Bedford, MA 01730, USA
| | - Jason Lotterhand
- Homology Medicines, Inc., 1 Patriots Park, Bedford, MA 01730, USA
| | | | | | - Alec Tzianabos
- Homology Medicines, Inc., 1 Patriots Park, Bedford, MA 01730, USA
| | - Albert B Seymour
- Homology Medicines, Inc., 1 Patriots Park, Bedford, MA 01730, USA
| | - Omar L Francone
- Homology Medicines, Inc., 1 Patriots Park, Bedford, MA 01730, USA
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20
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Jäschke N, Büning H. Adeno-Associated Virus Vector Design-Moving the Adeno-Associated Virus to a Bioengineered Therapeutic Nanoparticle. Hematol Oncol Clin North Am 2022; 36:667-685. [PMID: 35778330 DOI: 10.1016/j.hoc.2022.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Although the number of market-approved gene therapies is still low, this new class of therapeutics has become an integral part of modern medicine. The success and safety of gene therapy depend on the vectors used to deliver the therapeutic material. Adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors have emerged as the most frequently used delivery system for in vivo gene therapy. This success was achieved with first-generation vectors, using capsids derived from natural AAV serotypes. Their broad tropism, the high seroprevalence for many of the AAV serotypes in the human population, and the high vector doses needed to transduce a sufficient number of therapy-relevant target cells are challenges that are addressed by engineering the capsid and the vector genome, improving the efficacy of these biological nanoparticles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nico Jäschke
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, Carl-Neuberg-Str.1, Hannover 30625, Germany
| | - Hildegard Büning
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, Carl-Neuberg-Str.1, Hannover 30625, Germany; REBIRTH Research Center for Translational Regenerative Medicine, Hannover Medical School, Carl-Neuberg-Str.1, Hannover 30625, Germany; German Center for Infection Research, Partner Site Hannover-Braunschweig.
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21
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Zhou Y, Wang Y. Sample Preparation Matters for Peptide Mapping to Evaluate Deamidation of Adeno-Associated Virus (AAV) Capsid Proteins using LC-MS/MS. Hum Gene Ther 2022; 33:821-828. [PMID: 35570652 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2021.207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Adeno-associated viral capsid proteins (AAV VP) are the major components that determine the tissue specificity and immunogenicity, and in vivo transduction performance of the vector. It was reported that asparagine deamidation of AAV capsid proteins leads to charge variants/heterogeneity and altered vector function, reduction of stability and potency of AAV gene therapy products. Deamidation of asparagine residue is a common post-translational modification of proteins and is mostly detected and quantified by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) based peptide mapping. However, deamidation can be spontaneously introduced during sample preparation prior to LC-MS/MS analysis. So far, no optimal sample preparations, instead, traditional sample preparation has been used for AAV VP peptide mapping, resulting in exaggerating the original deamidation levels. It is important to accurately monitor and provide true value of asparagine deamidation for development of AAV gene therapy products. In this study, we evaluated denaturation temperatures, digestion durations, and digestion temperatures using three different sample preparation formats for LC-MS/MS based assessment of deamidation of AAV9 capsid proteins. The results demonstrated that the optimal sample preparation method for AAV9 VP peptide mapping minimized asparagine deamidation artifacts. Although AAV9 was used for method optimization, this study may also provide a guidance on how to control deamidation artifacts for other AAV serotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhou
- Novartis Gene Therapies, Analytical Development, 10210 Campus Point Drive, 250 Suite, San Diego, California, United States, 92121;
| | - Yueju Wang
- Novartis Gene Therapies, Analytical Development, San Diego, California, United States;
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22
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Barnes LF, Draper BE, Chen YT, Powers TW, Jarrold MF. Quantitative analysis of genome packaging in recombinant AAV vectors by charge detection mass spectrometry. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2021; 23:87-97. [PMID: 34631929 PMCID: PMC8476707 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2021.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) has emerged as an important gene therapy vector with many clinical trials currently in progress. Analytical characterization and quantitation of particle content remain challenges in both the development and production of rAAV vectors. In this study, charge detection mass spectrometry (CDMS) and gel electrophoresis are used to characterize the DNA content of recombinant AAV8 (rAAV8) vectors with a wide range of target genome sizes. We show that the differences between the masses of empty particles and particles with the genome of interest (GOI) are correlated with the expected genome mass. A small systematic deviation (around 2%) is attributed to the packaging of counterions along with the DNA. In addition to the GOI, a broad distribution of heterogeneous DNA is packaged. The distribution peaks are close to the packaging capacity of the rAAV8 vectors. There is also evidence for the co-packaging of small DNA fragments along with the GOI. Finally, we present evidence that incubation at an elevated temperature can reduce the heterogeneity of the packaged DNA. Taken together, these results show that CDMS is a viable tool for characterization of the packaged genome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren F Barnes
- Chemistry Department, Indiana University, 800 East Kirkwood Avenue, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA
| | - Benjamin E Draper
- Chemistry Department, Indiana University, 800 East Kirkwood Avenue, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA
| | - Yu-Ting Chen
- Pfizer, Inc., BioTherapeutics Pharmaceutical Sciences, Analytical R&D, 875 Chesterfield Parkway West, Chesterfield, MO 63017, USA
| | - Thomas W Powers
- Pfizer, Inc., BioTherapeutics Pharmaceutical Sciences, Analytical R&D, 875 Chesterfield Parkway West, Chesterfield, MO 63017, USA
| | - Martin F Jarrold
- Chemistry Department, Indiana University, 800 East Kirkwood Avenue, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA
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23
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Mietzsch M, Yu JC, Hsi J, Chipman P, Broecker F, Fuming Z, Linhardt RJ, Seeberger PH, Heilbronn R, McKenna R, Agbandje-McKenna M. Structural Study of Aavrh.10 Receptor and Antibody Interactions. J Virol 2021; 95:e0124921. [PMID: 34549984 PMCID: PMC8577363 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.01249-21] [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: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) vectors are one of the leading tools for the delivery of therapeutic genes in human gene therapy applications. For a successful transfer of their payload, the AAV vectors have to circumvent potential preexisting neutralizing host antibodies and bind to the receptors of the target cells. Both of these aspects have not been structurally analyzed for AAVrh.10. Here, cryo-electron microscopy and three-dimensional image reconstruction were used to map the binding site of sulfated N-acetyllactosamine (LacNAc; previously shown to bind AAVrh.10) and a series of four monoclonal antibodies (MAbs). LacNAc was found to bind to a pocket located on the side of the 3-fold capsid protrusion that is mostly conserved to AAV9 and equivalent to its galactose-binding site. As a result, AAVrh.10 was also shown to be able to bind to cell surface glycans with terminal galactose. For the antigenic characterization, it was observed that several anti-AAV8 MAbs cross-react with AAVrh.10. The binding sites of these antibodies were mapped to the 3-fold capsid protrusions. Based on these observations, the AAVrh.10 capsid surface was engineered to create variant capsids that escape these antibodies while maintaining infectivity. IMPORTANCE Gene therapy vectors based on adeno-associated virus rhesus isolate 10 (AAVrh.10) have been used in several clinical trials to treat monogenetic diseases. However, compared to other AAV serotypes little is known about receptor binding and antigenicity of the AAVrh.10 capsid. Particularly, preexisting neutralizing antibodies against capsids are an important challenge that can hamper treatment efficiency. This study addresses both topics and identifies critical regions of the AAVrh.10 capsid for receptor and antibody binding. The insights gained were utilized to generate AAVrh.10 variants capable of evading known neutralizing antibodies. The findings of this study could further aid the utilization of AAVrh.10 vectors in clinical trials and help the approval of the subsequent biologics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Mietzsch
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Center for Structural Biology, McKnight Brain Institute, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Jennifer C. Yu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Center for Structural Biology, McKnight Brain Institute, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Jane Hsi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Center for Structural Biology, McKnight Brain Institute, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Paul Chipman
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Center for Structural Biology, McKnight Brain Institute, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Felix Broecker
- Department of Biomolecular Systems, Max-Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces, Potsdam, Germany
- Institute of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Zhang Fuming
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York, USA
| | - Robert J. Linhardt
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York, USA
| | - Peter H. Seeberger
- Department of Biomolecular Systems, Max-Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces, Potsdam, Germany
- Institute of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Regine Heilbronn
- Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Robert McKenna
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Center for Structural Biology, McKnight Brain Institute, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Mavis Agbandje-McKenna
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Center for Structural Biology, McKnight Brain Institute, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
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Hoad M, Roby JA, Forwood JK. Structural characterization of the porcine adeno-associated virus Po1 capsid protein binding to the nuclear trafficking protein importin alpha. FEBS Lett 2021; 595:2793-2804. [PMID: 34661283 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.14209] [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: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) are key vectors for gene therapy; thus, many aspects of their cell transduction pathway have been revealed in detail. However, the specific mechanisms AAV virions use to enter the host nucleus remain largely unresolved. We therefore aimed to reveal the structural interactions between the AAV capsid (Cap) protein and the nuclear transport protein importin alpha (IMPα). A putative nuclear localization sequence (NLS) in the virion protein 1 capsid protein of the porcine AAV Po1 was identified. This region was complexed with IMPα and a structure solved at 2.26 Å. This is the first time that an NLS of AAV Cap complexed with IMPα has been determined structurally. Our results support the findings that AAV capsids enter the nucleus through binding the nuclear import adapter IMPα.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikayla Hoad
- School of Dentistry and Medical Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW, Australia
| | - Justin A Roby
- School of Dentistry and Medical Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW, Australia
| | - Jade K Forwood
- School of Dentistry and Medical Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW, Australia
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25
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Tustian AD, Bak H. Assessment of quality attributes for adeno-associated viral vectors. Biotechnol Bioeng 2021; 118:4186-4203. [PMID: 34309017 DOI: 10.1002/bit.27905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Revised: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
There is a strong and growing interest in the development and production of gene therapy products, including those utilizing adeno-associated virus (AAV) particles. This is evident with the increase in the number of clinical trials and agency approvals for AAV therapeutics. As bioproduction of AAV viral vectors matures, a quality by design (QbD) approach to process development can aid in process robustness and product quality. Furthermore, it may become a regulatory expectation. The first step in any QbD approach is to determine what physical, chemical, biological, or microbiological property or characteristic product attributes should be controlled within an appropriate limit, range, or distribution to ensure the desired product quality. Then predefined goals are set to allow proactive process development to design in quality. This review lists typical quality attributes used for release testing of AAV viral vectors and discusses these and selected attributes important to extended characterization studies in terms of safety, efficacy, and impact upon the patient immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hanne Bak
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc., Tarrytown, NY, USA
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26
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Large EE, Silveria MA, Zane GM, Weerakoon O, Chapman MS. Adeno-Associated Virus (AAV) Gene Delivery: Dissecting Molecular Interactions upon Cell Entry. Viruses 2021; 13:1336. [PMID: 34372542 PMCID: PMC8310307 DOI: 10.3390/v13071336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Revised: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Human gene therapy has advanced from twentieth-century conception to twenty-first-century reality. The recombinant Adeno-Associated Virus (rAAV) is a major gene therapy vector. Research continues to improve rAAV safety and efficacy using a variety of AAV capsid modification strategies. Significant factors influencing rAAV transduction efficiency include neutralizing antibodies, attachment factor interactions and receptor binding. Advances in understanding the molecular interactions during rAAV cell entry combined with improved capsid modulation strategies will help guide the design and engineering of safer and more efficient rAAV gene therapy vectors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Michael S. Chapman
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65201, USA; (E.E.L.); (M.A.S.); (G.M.Z.); (O.W.)
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Wörner TP, Bennett A, Habka S, Snijder J, Friese O, Powers T, Agbandje-McKenna M, Heck AJR. Adeno-associated virus capsid assembly is divergent and stochastic. Nat Commun 2021; 12:1642. [PMID: 33712599 PMCID: PMC7955066 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-21935-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) are increasingly used as gene therapy vectors. AAVs package their genome in a non-enveloped T = 1 icosahedral capsid of ~3.8 megaDalton, consisting of 60 subunits of 3 distinct viral proteins (VPs), which vary only in their N-terminus. While all three VPs play a role in cell-entry and transduction, their precise stoichiometry and structural organization in the capsid has remained elusive. Here we investigate the composition of several AAV serotypes by high-resolution native mass spectrometry. Our data reveal that the capsids assemble stochastically, leading to a highly heterogeneous population of capsids of variable composition, whereby even the single-most abundant VP stoichiometry represents only a small percentage of the total AAV population. We estimate that virtually every AAV capsid in a particular preparation has a unique composition. The systematic scoring of the simulations against experimental native MS data offers a sensitive new method to characterize these therapeutically important heterogeneous capsids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias P Wörner
- Biomolecular Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics, Bijvoet Center for Biomolecular Research and Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Utrecht, Padualaan 8, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Netherlands Proteomics Center, Padualaan 8, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Antonette Bennett
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Center for Structural Biology, the McKnight Brain Institute, 1200 Newell Drive, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Sana Habka
- Biomolecular Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics, Bijvoet Center for Biomolecular Research and Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Utrecht, Padualaan 8, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Netherlands Proteomics Center, Padualaan 8, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Joost Snijder
- Biomolecular Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics, Bijvoet Center for Biomolecular Research and Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Utrecht, Padualaan 8, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Netherlands Proteomics Center, Padualaan 8, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Olga Friese
- Biotherapeutics Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pfizer WRDM, 700 Chesterfield Parkway W, Gainesville, MO, USA
| | - Thomas Powers
- Biotherapeutics Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pfizer WRDM, 700 Chesterfield Parkway W, Gainesville, MO, USA
| | - Mavis Agbandje-McKenna
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Center for Structural Biology, the McKnight Brain Institute, 1200 Newell Drive, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Albert J R Heck
- Biomolecular Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics, Bijvoet Center for Biomolecular Research and Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Utrecht, Padualaan 8, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
- Netherlands Proteomics Center, Padualaan 8, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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Strings-Ufombah V, Malerba A, Kao SC, Harbaran S, Roth F, Cappellari O, Lu-Nguyen N, Takahashi K, Mukadam S, Kilfoil G, Kloth C, Roelvink P, Dickson G, Trollet C, Suhy D. BB-301: a silence and replace AAV-based vector for the treatment of oculopharyngeal muscular dystrophy. MOLECULAR THERAPY-NUCLEIC ACIDS 2021; 24:67-78. [PMID: 33738139 PMCID: PMC7940701 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2021.02.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Accepted: 02/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Oculopharyngeal muscular dystrophy (OPMD) is a rare autosomal dominant disease that results from an alanine expansion in the N-terminal domain of Poly-A Binding Protein Nuclear-1 (PABPN1). We have recently demonstrated that a two-vector gene therapy strategy significantly ameliorated the pathology in a mouse model of OPMD. This approach entailed intramuscular injection of two recombinant adeno-associated viruses (AAVs), one expressing three short hairpin RNAs (shRNAs) to silence both mutant and wild-type PABPN1 and one expressing a codon-optimized version of PABPN1 that is insensitive to RNA interference. Here we report the continued development of this therapeutic strategy by delivering “silence and replace” sequences in a single AAV vector named BB-301. This construct is composed of a modified AAV serotype 9 (AAV9) capsid that expresses a unique single bifunctional construct under the control of the muscle-specific Spc5-12 promoter for the co-expression of both the codon-optimized PABPN1 protein and two small inhibitory RNAs (siRNAs) against PABPN1 modeled into microRNA (miRNA) backbones. A single intramuscular injection of BB-301 results in robust inhibition of mutant PABPN1 and concomitant replacement of the codon-optimized PABPN1 protein. The treatment restores muscle strength and muscle weight to wild-type levels as well as improving other physiological hallmarks of the disease in a mouse model of OPMD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alberto Malerba
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Life Sciences and the Environment, Royal Holloway University of London, Egham, Surrey TW20 0EX, UK
| | | | | | - Fanny Roth
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Association Institut de Myologie, Centre de Recherche en Myologie, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Ornella Cappellari
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Life Sciences and the Environment, Royal Holloway University of London, Egham, Surrey TW20 0EX, UK
| | - Ngoc Lu-Nguyen
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Life Sciences and the Environment, Royal Holloway University of London, Egham, Surrey TW20 0EX, UK
| | | | | | | | | | | | - George Dickson
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Life Sciences and the Environment, Royal Holloway University of London, Egham, Surrey TW20 0EX, UK
| | - Capucine Trollet
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Association Institut de Myologie, Centre de Recherche en Myologie, 75013 Paris, France
| | - David Suhy
- Benitec Biopharma, Inc., Hayward, CA 94545, USA
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Completion of the AAV Structural Atlas: Serotype Capsid Structures Reveals Clade-Specific Features. Viruses 2021; 13:v13010101. [PMID: 33450892 PMCID: PMC7828300 DOI: 10.3390/v13010101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The capsid structures of most Adeno-associated virus (AAV) serotypes, already assigned to an antigenic clade, have been previously determined. This study reports the remaining capsid structures of AAV7, AAV11, AAV12, and AAV13 determined by cryo-electron microscopy and three-dimensional image reconstruction to 2.96, 2.86, 2.54, and 2.76 Å resolution, respectively. These structures complete the structural atlas of the AAV serotype capsids. AAV7 represents the first clade D capsid structure; AAV11 and AAV12 are of a currently unassigned clade that would include AAV4; and AAV13 represents the first AAV2-AAV3 hybrid clade C capsid structure. These newly determined capsid structures all exhibit the AAV capsid features including 5-fold channels, 3-fold protrusions, 2-fold depressions, and a nucleotide binding pocket with an ordered nucleotide in genome-containing capsids. However, these structures have viral proteins that display clade-specific loop conformations. This structural characterization completes our three-dimensional library of the current AAV serotypes to provide an atlas of surface loop configurations compatible with capsid assembly and amenable for future vector engineering efforts. Derived vectors could improve gene delivery success with respect to specific tissue targeting, transduction efficiency, antigenicity or receptor retargeting.
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The VP1u of Human Parvovirus B19: A Multifunctional Capsid Protein with Biotechnological Applications. Viruses 2020; 12:v12121463. [PMID: 33352888 PMCID: PMC7765992 DOI: 10.3390/v12121463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Revised: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The viral protein 1 unique region (VP1u) of human parvovirus B19 (B19V) is a multifunctional capsid protein with essential roles in virus tropism, uptake, and subcellular trafficking. These functions reside on hidden protein domains, which become accessible upon interaction with cell membrane receptors. A receptor-binding domain (RBD) in VP1u is responsible for the specific targeting and uptake of the virus exclusively into cells of the erythroid lineage in the bone marrow. A phospholipase A2 domain promotes the endosomal escape of the incoming virus. The VP1u is also the immunodominant region of the capsid as it is the target of neutralizing antibodies. For all these reasons, the VP1u has raised great interest in antiviral research and vaccinology. Besides the essential functions in B19V infection, the remarkable erythroid specificity of the VP1u makes it a unique erythroid cell surface biomarker. Moreover, the demonstrated capacity of the VP1u to deliver diverse cargo specifically to cells around the proerythroblast differentiation stage, including erythroleukemic cells, offers novel therapeutic opportunities for erythroid-specific drug delivery. In this review, we focus on the multifunctional role of the VP1u in B19V infection and explore its potential in diagnostics and erythroid-specific therapeutics.
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Journey to the Center of the Cell: Tracing the Path of AAV Transduction. Trends Mol Med 2020; 27:172-184. [PMID: 33071047 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2020.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Revised: 09/13/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
As adeno-associated virus (AAV)-based gene therapies are being increasingly approved for use in humans, it is important that we understand vector-host interactions in detail. With the advances in genome-wide genetic screening tools, a clear picture of AAV-host interactions is beginning to emerge. Understanding these interactions can provide insights into the viral life cycle. Accordingly, novel strategies to circumvent the current limitations of AAV-based vectors may be explored. Here, we summarize our current understanding of the various stages in the journey of the vector from the cell surface to the nucleus and contextualize the roles of recently identified host factors.
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The Golgi Calcium ATPase Pump Plays an Essential Role in Adeno-associated Virus Trafficking and Transduction. J Virol 2020; 94:JVI.01604-20. [PMID: 32817219 PMCID: PMC7565633 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.01604-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) have proven to be effective gene transfer vectors. However, our understanding of how the host cell environment influences AAV transduction is still evolving. In the present study, we investigated the role of ATP2C1, which encodes a membrane calcium transport pump, SPCA1, essential for maintaining cellular calcium homeostasis on AAV transduction. Our results indicate that cellular calcium is essential for efficient intracellular trafficking and conformational changes in the AAV capsid that support efficient genome transcription. Further, we show that pharmacological modulation of cellular calcium levels can potentially be applied to improve the AAV gene transfer efficiency. Adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) are dependoparvoviruses that have proven useful for therapeutic gene transfer; however, our understanding of host factors that influence AAV trafficking and transduction is still evolving. Here, we investigated the role of cellular calcium in the AAV infectious pathway. First, we demonstrated a critical role for the host Golgi compartment-resident ATP-powered calcium pump (secretory pathway calcium ATPase 1 [SPCA1]) encoded by the ATP2C1 gene in AAV infection. CRISPR-based knockout (KO) of ATP2C1 decreases transduction by different AAV serotypes. ATP2C1 KO does not appear to inhibit AAV binding, cellular uptake, or nuclear entry; however, capsids within ATP2C1 KO cells demonstrate dispersed and punctate trafficking distinct from the perinuclear, trans-Golgi pattern observed in normal cells. In addition, we observed a defect in the ability of AAV capsids to undergo conformational changes and support efficient vector genome transcription in ATP2C1 KO cells. The calcium chelator BAPTA-AM, which reduces cytosolic calcium, rescues the defective ATP2C1 KO phenotype and AAV transduction in vitro. Conversely, the calcium ionophore ionomycin, which disrupts calcium gradients, blocks AAV transduction. Further, we demonstrated that modulating calcium in the murine brain using BAPTA-AM augments AAV gene expression in vivo. Taking these data together, we postulate that the maintenance of an intracellular calcium gradient by the calcium ATPase and processing within the Golgi compartment are essential for priming the capsid to support efficient AAV genome transcription. IMPORTANCE Adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) have proven to be effective gene transfer vectors. However, our understanding of how the host cell environment influences AAV transduction is still evolving. In the present study, we investigated the role of ATP2C1, which encodes a membrane calcium transport pump, SPCA1, essential for maintaining cellular calcium homeostasis on AAV transduction. Our results indicate that cellular calcium is essential for efficient intracellular trafficking and conformational changes in the AAV capsid that support efficient genome transcription. Further, we show that pharmacological modulation of cellular calcium levels can potentially be applied to improve the AAV gene transfer efficiency.
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SUMOylation Targets Adeno-associated Virus Capsids but Mainly Restricts Transduction by Cellular Mechanisms. J Virol 2020; 94:JVI.00871-20. [PMID: 32669341 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.00871-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV) has proven to be a promising candidate for gene therapy due to its nonpathogenic nature, ease of production, and broad tissue tropism. However, its transduction capabilities are not optimal due to the interaction with various host factors within the cell. In a previous study, we identified members of the small ubiquitin-like modifier (SUMO) pathway as significant restriction factors in AAV gene transduction. In the present study, we explored the scope of this restriction by focusing on the AAV capsid and host cell proteins as targets. We show that during vector production, the capsid protein VP2 becomes SUMOylated, as indicated by deletion and point mutations of VP2 or the obstruction of its N terminus via the addition of a tag. We observed that SUMOylated AAV capsids display higher stability than non-SUMOylated capsids. Prevention of capsid SUMOylation by VP2 mutations did not abolish transduction restriction by SUMOylation; however, it reduced activation of gene transduction by shutdown of the cellular SUMOylation pathway. This indicates a link between capsid SUMOylation and SUMOylation of cellular proteins in restricting gene transduction. Infection with AAV triggers general SUMOylation of cellular proteins. In particular, the DAXX protein, a putative host cell restriction factor that can become SUMOylated, is able to restrict AAV gene transduction by reducing the intracellular accumulation of AAV vectors. We also observe that the coexpression of a SUMOylation inhibitor with an AAV2 reporter gene vector increased gene transduction significantly.IMPORTANCE Host factors within the cell are the major mode of restriction of adeno-associated virus (AAV) and keep it from fulfilling its maximum potential as a gene therapy vector. A better understanding of the intricacies of restriction would enable the engineering of better vectors. Via a genome-wide short interfering RNA screen, we identified that proteins of the small ubiquitin-like modifier (SUMO) pathway play an important role in AAV restriction. In this study, we investigate whether this restriction is targeted to the AAV directly or indirectly through host cell factors. The results indicate that both targets act in concert to restrict AAV.
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Comparative Analysis of the Capsid Structures of AAVrh.10, AAVrh.39, and AAV8. J Virol 2020; 94:JVI.01769-19. [PMID: 31826994 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.01769-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2019] [Accepted: 11/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) from clade E are often used as vectors in gene delivery applications. This clade includes rhesus isolate 10 (AAVrh.10) and 39 (AAVrh.39) which, unlike representative AAV8, are capable of crossing the blood-brain barrier (BBB), thereby enabling the delivery of therapeutic genes to the central nervous system. Here, the capsid structures of AAV8, AAVrh.10 and AAVrh.39 have been determined by cryo-electron microscopy and three-dimensional image reconstruction to 3.08-, 2.75-, and 3.39-Å resolution, respectively, to enable a direct structural comparison. AAVrh.10 and AAVrh.39 are 98% identical in amino acid sequence but only ∼93.5% identical to AAV8. However, the capsid structures of all three viruses are similar, with only minor differences observed in the previously described surface variable regions, suggesting that specific residues S269 and N472, absent in AAV8, may confer the ability to cross the BBB in AAVrh.10 and AAVrh.39. Head-to-head comparison of empty and genome-containing particles showed DNA ordered in the previously described nucleotide-binding pocket, supporting the suggested role of this pocket in DNA packaging for the Dependoparvovirus The structural characterization of these viruses provides a platform for future vector engineering efforts toward improved gene delivery success with respect to specific tissue targeting, transduction efficiency, antigenicity, or receptor retargeting.IMPORTANCE Recombinant adeno-associated virus vectors (rAAVs), based on AAV8 and AAVrh.10, have been utilized in multiple clinical trials to treat different monogenetic diseases. The closely related AAVrh.39 has also shown promise in vivo As recently attained for other AAV biologics, e.g., Luxturna and Zolgensma, based on AAV2 and AAV9, respectively, the vectors in this study will likely gain U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval for commercialization in the near future. This study characterized the capsid structures of these clinical vectors at atomic resolution using cryo-electron microscopy and image reconstruction for comparative analysis. The analysis suggested two key residues, S269 and N472, as determinants of BBB crossing for AAVrh.10 and AAVrh.39, a feature utilized for central nervous system delivery of therapeutic genes. The structure information thus provides a platform for engineering to improve receptor retargeting or tissue specificity. These are important challenges in the field that need attention. Capsid structure information also provides knowledge potentially applicable for regulatory product approval.
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Cytoplasmic Parvovirus Capsids Recruit Importin Beta for Nuclear Delivery. J Virol 2020; 94:JVI.01532-19. [PMID: 31748386 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.01532-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2019] [Accepted: 11/16/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Parvoviruses are an important platform for gene and cancer therapy. Their cell entry and the following steps, including nuclear import, are inefficient, limiting their use in therapeutic applications. Two models exist on parvoviral nuclear entry: the classical import of the viral capsid using nuclear transport receptors of the importin (karyopherin) family or the direct attachment of the capsid to the nuclear pore complex leading to the local disintegration of the nuclear envelope. Here, by laser scanning confocal microscopy and in situ proximity ligation analyses combined with coimmunoprecipitation, we show that infection requires importin β-mediated access to the nuclear pore complex and nucleoporin 153-mediated interactions on the nuclear side. The importin β-capsid interaction continued within the nucleoplasm, which suggests a mixed model of nuclear entry in which the classical nuclear import across the nuclear pore complex is accompanied by transient ruptures of the nuclear envelope, also allowing the passive entry of importin β-capsid complexes into the nucleus.IMPORTANCE Parvoviruses are small DNA viruses that deliver their DNA into the postmitotic nuclei, which is an important step for parvoviral gene and cancer therapies. Limitations in virus-receptor interactions or endocytic entry do not fully explain the low transduction/infection efficiency, indicating a bottleneck after virus entry into the cytoplasm. We thus investigated the transfer of parvovirus capsids from the cytoplasm to the nucleus, showing that the nuclear import of the parvovirus capsid follows a unique strategy, which differs from classical nuclear import and those of other viruses.
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36
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Analysis of hepatic and retinal cell microRNAome during AAV infection reveals their diverse impact on viral transduction and cellular physiology. Gene 2020; 724:144157. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2019.144157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Revised: 09/25/2019] [Accepted: 10/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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37
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Mével M, Bouzelha M, Leray A, Pacouret S, Guilbaud M, Penaud-Budloo M, Alvarez-Dorta D, Dubreil L, Gouin SG, Combal JP, Hommel M, Gonzalez-Aseguinolaza G, Blouin V, Moullier P, Adjali O, Deniaud D, Ayuso E. Chemical modification of the adeno-associated virus capsid to improve gene delivery. Chem Sci 2019; 11:1122-1131. [PMID: 34084369 PMCID: PMC8145868 DOI: 10.1039/c9sc04189c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Gene delivery vectors based on adeno-associated virus (AAV) are highly promising due to several desirable features of this parent virus, including a lack of pathogenicity, efficient infection of dividing and non-dividing cells and sustained maintenance of the viral genome. However, the conclusion from clinical data using these vectors is that there is a need to develop new AAVs with a higher transduction efficiency and specificity for relevant target tissues. To overcome these limitations, we chemically modified the surface of the capsid of AAV vectors. These modifications were achieved by chemical coupling of a ligand by the formation of a thiourea functionality between the amino group of the capsid proteins and the reactive isothiocyanate motif incorporated into the ligand. This strategy does not require genetic engineering of the capsid sequence. The proof of concept was first evidenced using a fluorophore (FITC). Next, we coupled the N-acetylgalactosamine ligand onto the surface of the AAV capsid for asialoglycoprotein receptor-mediated hepatocyte-targeted delivery. Chemically-modified capsids also showed reduced interactions with neutralizing antibodies. Taken together, our findings reveal the possibility of creating a specific engineered platform for targeting AAVs via chemical coupling. Bioconjugated AAV vectors, achieved by coupling of ligands on amino groups of the capsid, are of great interest for gene delivery. Chemical modifications can be used to enhance cell tropism and to decrease interactions with neutralizing antibodies.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathieu Mével
- INSERM UMR 1089, Université de Nantes, CHU de Nantes 44200 Nantes France
| | - Mohammed Bouzelha
- INSERM UMR 1089, Université de Nantes, CHU de Nantes 44200 Nantes France
| | - Aurélien Leray
- INSERM UMR 1089, Université de Nantes, CHU de Nantes 44200 Nantes France .,LUNAM Université, CEISAM, Chimie Et Interdisciplinarité, Synthèse, Analyse, Modélisation, UMR CNRS 6230, UFR des Sciences et des Techniques 44322 Nantes France
| | - Simon Pacouret
- INSERM UMR 1089, Université de Nantes, CHU de Nantes 44200 Nantes France
| | - Mickael Guilbaud
- INSERM UMR 1089, Université de Nantes, CHU de Nantes 44200 Nantes France
| | | | - Dimitri Alvarez-Dorta
- LUNAM Université, CEISAM, Chimie Et Interdisciplinarité, Synthèse, Analyse, Modélisation, UMR CNRS 6230, UFR des Sciences et des Techniques 44322 Nantes France
| | - Laurence Dubreil
- PanTher-UMR 703, INRA-ONIRIS, Atlanpole-Chanterie 44307 Nantes France
| | - Sébastien G Gouin
- LUNAM Université, CEISAM, Chimie Et Interdisciplinarité, Synthèse, Analyse, Modélisation, UMR CNRS 6230, UFR des Sciences et des Techniques 44322 Nantes France
| | | | - Mirja Hommel
- Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression Program, CIMA, FIMA, University of Navarra, Navarra Institute for Health Research (IdisNA) Pamplona Spain
| | - Gloria Gonzalez-Aseguinolaza
- Vivet Therapeutics SAS Paris France.,Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression Program, CIMA, FIMA, University of Navarra, Navarra Institute for Health Research (IdisNA) Pamplona Spain
| | - Véronique Blouin
- INSERM UMR 1089, Université de Nantes, CHU de Nantes 44200 Nantes France
| | - Philippe Moullier
- INSERM UMR 1089, Université de Nantes, CHU de Nantes 44200 Nantes France
| | - Oumeya Adjali
- INSERM UMR 1089, Université de Nantes, CHU de Nantes 44200 Nantes France
| | - David Deniaud
- LUNAM Université, CEISAM, Chimie Et Interdisciplinarité, Synthèse, Analyse, Modélisation, UMR CNRS 6230, UFR des Sciences et des Techniques 44322 Nantes France
| | - Eduard Ayuso
- INSERM UMR 1089, Université de Nantes, CHU de Nantes 44200 Nantes France
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38
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Le DT, Radukic MT, Müller KM. Adeno-associated virus capsid protein expression in Escherichia coli and chemically defined capsid assembly. Sci Rep 2019; 9:18631. [PMID: 31819093 PMCID: PMC6901487 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-54928-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2019] [Accepted: 11/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Research and clinical applications of recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) significantly increased in recent years alongside regulatory approvals of rAAV gene therapy products. To date, all rAAV vectors as well as AAV empty capsids are produced in eukaryotic cells. We explored a new route to generate AAV capsids with the aim to analyze capsid assembly in a chemically defined setting and pave the way for new production methods and applications based on AAV virus-like particles (VLPs). We generated these empty capsids by bacterial expression and subsequent concomitant protein refolding and VLP formation. AAV serotype 2 structural protein VP3 was expressed in Escherichia coli. VLPs formed as demonstrated by dynamic light scattering, atomic force microscopy, and ELISA. Furthermore, VLPs internalized into human HeLa cells. To extend the application range of the VLPs, we tested peptide insertions, at the genetic level, in a surface loop (amino acid position 587) or at the C-terminus of VP3 and these variants also formed VLPs. VLPs developed without assembly-activating protein (AAP), but adding purified recombinant AAP to the refolding process increased capsid yield. Our findings offer a new route to understand AAV assembly biology and open a toolbox for AAV production strategies that might enable capsid display for vaccination and matching of capsids with cargoes at large scale and low cost.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dinh To Le
- Cellular and Molecular Biotechnology, Faculty of Technology, Bielefeld University, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Marco T Radukic
- Cellular and Molecular Biotechnology, Faculty of Technology, Bielefeld University, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Kristian M Müller
- Cellular and Molecular Biotechnology, Faculty of Technology, Bielefeld University, Bielefeld, Germany.
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39
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Maurer AC, Pacouret S, Cepeda Diaz AK, Blake J, Andres-Mateos E, Vandenberghe LH. The Assembly-Activating Protein Promotes Stability and Interactions between AAV's Viral Proteins to Nucleate Capsid Assembly. Cell Rep 2019; 23:1817-1830. [PMID: 29742436 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2018.04.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2017] [Revised: 07/31/2017] [Accepted: 04/04/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector is a preferred delivery platform for in vivo gene therapy. Natural and engineered variations of the AAV capsid affect a plurality of phenotypes relevant to gene therapy, including vector production and host tropism. Fundamental to these aspects is the mechanism of AAV capsid assembly. Here, the role of the viral co-factor assembly-activating protein (AAP) was evaluated in 12 naturally occurring AAVs and 9 putative ancestral capsid intermediates. The results demonstrate increased capsid protein stability and VP-VP interactions in the presence of AAP. The capsid's dependence on AAP can be partly overcome by strengthening interactions between monomers within the assembly, as illustrated by the transfer of a minimal motif defined by a phenotype-to-phylogeny mapping method. These findings suggest that the emergence of AAP within the Dependovirus genus relaxes structural constraints on AAV assembly in favor of increasing the degrees of freedom for the capsid to evolve.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna C Maurer
- Grousbeck Gene Therapy Center, Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, MA 02114, USA; Ocular Genomics Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Simon Pacouret
- Grousbeck Gene Therapy Center, Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, MA 02114, USA; Ocular Genomics Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA; INSERM UMR 1089, University of Nantes, Nantes University Hospital, 22 Boulevard Benoni Goullin, 44200 Nantes, France
| | - Ana Karla Cepeda Diaz
- Grousbeck Gene Therapy Center, Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, MA 02114, USA; Ocular Genomics Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Jessica Blake
- Grousbeck Gene Therapy Center, Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, MA 02114, USA; Ocular Genomics Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Eva Andres-Mateos
- Grousbeck Gene Therapy Center, Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, MA 02114, USA; Ocular Genomics Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Luk H Vandenberghe
- Grousbeck Gene Therapy Center, Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, MA 02114, USA; Ocular Genomics Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA; Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA; The Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA.
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40
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Krüger-Haag A, Lehmann C, Schmidt E, Sonntag F, Hörer M, Kochanek S. Evaluation of life cycle defective adenovirus mutants for production of adeno-associated virus vectors. J Gene Med 2019; 21:e3094. [PMID: 31037799 DOI: 10.1002/jgm.3094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2018] [Revised: 04/18/2019] [Accepted: 04/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adeno-associated virus-based vectors are efficient and safe drug candidates for different in vivo gene therapy applications. With increasing numbers of clinical studies based on AAV2 vectors that include not only rare, but also common diseases as a therapeutic target, there is an increased demand for the development of improved production technologies. METHODS In the present study, we compared two life cycle defective adenovirus mutants as helper viruses for AAV2 vector production. They had deletions either in the gene coding for the preterminal protein (pTP) that is expressed early in the viral life cycle and is essential for genome replication or in the gene coding for the 100K protein, a protein with many functions, one of which is involved in virus assembly. AAV2 vector production efficiencies were evaluated by analyzing genome-containing particles using a real-time polymerase chain reaction and functional units were investigated by transduction assays. RESULTS Somewhat contrary to our expectations, the ∆100K mutant virus showed only a moderate efficiency as a helper virus for AAV2 vector production, whereas the replication-deficient ∆pTP mutant supported AAV2 production almost as efficiently as adenovirus wild-type. We also showed that a temperature shift to 32°C together with extended incubation times improved AAV2 vector productivity. CONCLUSIONS The present study indicates the advantages of using a ∆pTP mutant adenovirus rather than adenovirus wild-type as a helper virus for AAV2 production and also indicates that temperature shifts to lower temperatures may improve AAV2 vector production rates.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Caroline Lehmann
- Department of Gene Therapy, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany.,Sartorius Stedim Cellca GmbH, Laupheim, Germany
| | - Erika Schmidt
- Department of Gene Therapy, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
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41
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Parvovirus B19 Uncoating Occurs in the Cytoplasm without Capsid Disassembly and It Is Facilitated by Depletion of Capsid-Associated Divalent Cations. Viruses 2019; 11:v11050430. [PMID: 31083301 PMCID: PMC6563316 DOI: 10.3390/v11050430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2019] [Revised: 05/07/2019] [Accepted: 05/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Human parvovirus B19 (B19V) traffics to the cell nucleus where it delivers the genome for replication. The intracellular compartment where uncoating takes place, the required capsid structural rearrangements and the cellular factors involved remain unknown. We explored conditions that trigger uncoating in vitro and found that prolonged exposure of capsids to chelating agents or to buffers with chelating properties induced a structural rearrangement at 4 °C resulting in capsids with lower density. These lighter particles remained intact but were unstable and short exposure to 37 °C or to a freeze-thaw cycle was sufficient to trigger DNA externalization without capsid disassembly. The rearrangement was not observed in the absence of chelating activity or in the presence of MgCl2 or CaCl2, suggesting that depletion of capsid-associated divalent cations facilitates uncoating. The presence of assembled capsids with externalized DNA was also detected during B19V entry in UT7/Epo cells. Following endosomal escape and prior to nuclear entry, a significant proportion of the incoming capsids rearranged and externalized the viral genome without capsid disassembly. The incoming capsids with accessible genomes accumulated in the nuclear fraction, a process that was prevented when endosomal escape or dynein function was disrupted. In their uncoated conformation, capsids immunoprecipitated from cytoplasmic or from nuclear fractions supported in vitro complementary-strand synthesis at 37 °C. This study reveals an uncoating strategy of B19V based on a limited capsid rearrangement prior to nuclear entry, a process that can be mimicked in vitro by depletion of divalent cations.
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42
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Mietzsch M, Pénzes JJ, Agbandje-McKenna M. Twenty-Five Years of Structural Parvovirology. Viruses 2019; 11:E362. [PMID: 31010002 PMCID: PMC6521121 DOI: 10.3390/v11040362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2019] [Revised: 04/10/2019] [Accepted: 04/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Parvoviruses, infecting vertebrates and invertebrates, are a family of single-stranded DNA viruses with small, non-enveloped capsids with T = 1 icosahedral symmetry. A quarter of a century after the first parvovirus capsid structure was published, approximately 100 additional structures have been analyzed. This first structure was that of Canine Parvovirus, and it initiated the practice of structure-to-function correlation for the family. Despite high diversity in the capsid viral protein (VP) sequence, the structural topologies of all parvoviral capsids are conserved. However, surface loops inserted between the core secondary structure elements vary in conformation that enables the assembly of unique capsid surface morphologies within individual genera. These variations enable each virus to establish host niches by allowing host receptor attachment, specific tissue tropism, and antigenic diversity. This review focuses on the diversity among the parvoviruses with respect to the transcriptional strategy of the encoded VPs, the advances in capsid structure-function annotation, and therapeutic developments facilitated by the available structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Mietzsch
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Center for Structural Biology, The McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA.
| | - Judit J Pénzes
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Center for Structural Biology, The McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA.
| | - Mavis Agbandje-McKenna
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Center for Structural Biology, The McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA.
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43
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Rossi A, Dupaty L, Aillot L, Zhang L, Gallien C, Hallek M, Odenthal M, Adriouch S, Salvetti A, Büning H. Vector uncoating limits adeno-associated viral vector-mediated transduction of human dendritic cells and vector immunogenicity. Sci Rep 2019; 9:3631. [PMID: 30842485 PMCID: PMC6403382 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-40071-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2018] [Accepted: 02/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
AAV vectors poorly transduce Dendritic cells (DC), a feature invoked to explain AAV's low immunogenicity. However, the reason for this non-permissiveness remained elusive. Here, we performed an in-depth analysis using human monocyte-derived immature DC (iDC) as model. iDC internalized AAV vectors of various serotypes, but even the most efficient serotype failed to transduce iDC above background. Since AAV vectors reached the cell nucleus, we hypothesized that AAV's intracellular processing occurs suboptimal. On this basis, we screened an AAV peptide display library for capsid variants more suitable for DC transduction and identified the I/VSS family which transduced DC with efficiencies of up to 38%. This property correlated with an improved vector uncoating. To determine the consequence of this novel feature for AAV's in vivo performance, we engineered one of the lead candidates to express a cytoplasmic form of ovalbumin, a highly immunogenic model antigen, and assayed transduction efficiency as well as immunogenicity. The capsid variant clearly outperformed the parental serotype in muscle transduction and in inducing antigen-specific humoral and T cell responses as well as anti-capsid CD8+ T cells. Hence, vector uncoating represents a major barrier hampering AAV vector-mediated transduction of DC and impacts on its use as vaccine platform.
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Affiliation(s)
- Axel Rossi
- International Center for Research in Infectiology (CIRI), INSERM U1111 - Université claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS UMR5308, Ecole Normale Supérieur de Lyon, Université de Lyon, Lyon, France
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Léa Dupaty
- Normandie Univ, UNIROUEN, INSERM, U1234, Physiopathologie et biothérapies des maladies inflammatoires et autoimmunes (PANTHER), 76000, Rouen, France
| | - Ludovic Aillot
- International Center for Research in Infectiology (CIRI), INSERM U1111 - Université claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS UMR5308, Ecole Normale Supérieur de Lyon, Université de Lyon, Lyon, France
- Cancer Research Center of Lyon, INSERM U1052, CNRS UMR5206, Lyon, France
| | - Liang Zhang
- Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Célia Gallien
- International Center for Research in Infectiology (CIRI), INSERM U1111 - Université claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS UMR5308, Ecole Normale Supérieur de Lyon, Université de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Michael Hallek
- Clinic I of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | | | - Sahil Adriouch
- Normandie Univ, UNIROUEN, INSERM, U1234, Physiopathologie et biothérapies des maladies inflammatoires et autoimmunes (PANTHER), 76000, Rouen, France.
| | - Anna Salvetti
- International Center for Research in Infectiology (CIRI), INSERM U1111 - Université claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS UMR5308, Ecole Normale Supérieur de Lyon, Université de Lyon, Lyon, France.
- Cancer Research Center of Lyon, INSERM U1052, CNRS UMR5206, Lyon, France.
| | - Hildegard Büning
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.
- Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), partner site Hannover-Braunschweig, Hannover, Germany.
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44
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Büning H, Srivastava A. Capsid Modifications for Targeting and Improving the Efficacy of AAV Vectors. MOLECULAR THERAPY-METHODS & CLINICAL DEVELOPMENT 2019; 12:248-265. [PMID: 30815511 PMCID: PMC6378346 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2019.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 155] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
In the past decade, recombinant vectors based on a non-pathogenic parvovirus, the adeno-associated virus (AAV), have taken center stage as a gene delivery vehicle for the potential gene therapy for a number of human diseases. To date, the safety of AAV vectors in 176 phase I, II, and III clinical trials and their efficacy in at least eight human diseases are now firmly documented. Despite these remarkable achievements, it has also become abundantly clear that the full potential of first generation AAV vectors composed of naturally occurring capsids is not likely to be realized, since the wild-type AAV did not evolve for the purpose of therapeutic gene delivery. In this article, we provide a brief historical account of the progress that has been made in the development of capsid-modified, next-generation AAV vectors to ensure both the safety and efficacy of these vectors in targeting a wide variety of human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hildegard Büning
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.,REBIRTH Cluster of Excellence, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Arun Srivastava
- Division of Cellular and Molecular Therapy, Departments of Pediatrics and Molecular Genetics & Microbiology, Powell Gene Therapy Center, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL, USA
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45
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Optimization of viral protein ratios for production of rAAV serotype 5 in the baculovirus system. Gene Ther 2018; 25:415-424. [PMID: 30069004 DOI: 10.1038/s41434-018-0034-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2018] [Revised: 05/21/2018] [Accepted: 06/14/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) has become the vector of choice for the development of novel human gene therapies. High-yield manufacturing of high-quality vectors can be achieved using the baculovirus expression vector system. However, efficient production of rAAV in this insect cell-based system requires a genetic redesign of the viral protein 1 (VP1) operon. In this study, we generated a library of rationally designed rAAV serotype 5 variants with modulations in the translation-initiation region of VP1 and investigated the potency of the resulting vectors. We found that the initiation strength at the VP1 translational start had downstream effects on the VP2/VP3 ratio. Excessive incorporation of VP3 into a vector type decreased potency, even when the VP1/VP2 ratio was in balance. Finally, we successfully generated a potent rAAV vector based on serotype 5 with a balanced VP1/VP2/VP3 stoichiometry.
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46
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François A, Bouzelha M, Lecomte E, Broucque F, Penaud-Budloo M, Adjali O, Moullier P, Blouin V, Ayuso E. Accurate Titration of Infectious AAV Particles Requires Measurement of Biologically Active Vector Genomes and Suitable Controls. MOLECULAR THERAPY-METHODS & CLINICAL DEVELOPMENT 2018; 10:223-236. [PMID: 30112419 PMCID: PMC6090651 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2018.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2017] [Accepted: 07/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Although the clinical use of recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) vectors is constantly increasing, the development of suitable quality control methods is still needed for accurate vector characterization. Among the quality criteria, the titration of infectious particles is critical to determine vector efficacy. Different methods have been developed for the measurement of rAAV infectivity in vitro, based on detection of vector genome replication in trans-complementing cells infected with adenovirus, detection of transgene expression in permissive cells, or simply detection of intracellular vector genomes following the infection of indicator cells. In the present study, we have compared these methods for the titration of infectious rAAV8 vector particles, and, to assess their ability to discriminate infectious and non-infectious rAAV serotype 8 particles, we have generated a VP1-defective AAV8-GFP vector. Since VP1 is required to enter the cell nucleus, the lack of VP1 should drastically reduce the infectivity of rAAV particles. The AAV8 reference standard material was used as a positive control. Our results demonstrated that methods based on measurement of rAAV biological activity (i.e., vector genome replication or transgene expression) were able to accurately discriminate infectious versus non-infectious particles, whereas methods simply measuring intracellular vector genomes were not. Several cell fractionation protocols were tested in an attempt to specifically measure vector genomes that had reached the nucleus, but genomes from wild-type and VP1-defective AAV8 particles were equally detected in the nuclear fraction by qPCR. These data highlight the importance of using suitable controls, including a negative control, for the development of biological assays such as infectious unit titration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Achille François
- INSERM UMR1089, University of Nantes, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire, Nantes, France
| | - Mohammed Bouzelha
- INSERM UMR1089, University of Nantes, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire, Nantes, France
| | - Emilie Lecomte
- INSERM UMR1089, University of Nantes, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire, Nantes, France
| | - Frédéric Broucque
- INSERM UMR1089, University of Nantes, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire, Nantes, France
| | - Magalie Penaud-Budloo
- INSERM UMR1089, University of Nantes, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire, Nantes, France
| | - Oumeya Adjali
- INSERM UMR1089, University of Nantes, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire, Nantes, France
| | - Philippe Moullier
- INSERM UMR1089, University of Nantes, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire, Nantes, France
| | - Véronique Blouin
- INSERM UMR1089, University of Nantes, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire, Nantes, France
| | - Eduard Ayuso
- INSERM UMR1089, University of Nantes, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire, Nantes, France
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47
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Brown N, Song L, Kollu NR, Hirsch ML. Adeno-Associated Virus Vectors and Stem Cells: Friends or Foes? Hum Gene Ther 2018; 28:450-463. [PMID: 28490211 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2017.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The infusion of healthy stem cells into a patient-termed "stem-cell therapy"-has shown great promise for the treatment of genetic and non-genetic diseases, including mucopolysaccharidosis type 1, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, numerous immunodeficiency disorders, and aplastic anemia. Stem cells for cell therapy can be collected from the patient (autologous) or collected from another "healthy" individual (allogeneic). The use of allogenic stem cells is accompanied with the potentially fatal risk that the transplanted donor T cells will reject the patient's cells-a process termed "graft-versus-host disease." Therefore, the use of autologous stem cells is preferred, at least from the immunological perspective. However, an obvious drawback is that inherently as "self," they contain the disease mutation. As such, autologous cells for use in cell therapies often require genetic "correction" (i.e., gene addition or editing) prior to cell infusion and therefore the requirement for some form of nucleic acid delivery, which sets the stage for the AAV controversy discussed herein. Despite being the most clinically applied gene delivery context to date, unlike other more concerning integrating and non-integrating vectors such as retroviruses and adenovirus, those based on adeno-associated virus (AAV) have not been employed in the clinic. Furthermore, published data regarding AAV vector transduction of stem cells are inconsistent in regards to vector transduction efficiency, while the pendulum swings far in the other direction with demonstrations of AAV vector-induced toxicity in undifferentiated cells. The variation present in the literature examining the transduction efficiency of AAV vectors in stem cells may be due to numerous factors, including inconsistencies in stem-cell collection, cell culture, vector preparation, and/or transduction conditions. This review summarizes the controversy surrounding AAV vector transduction of stem cells, hopefully setting the stage for future elucidation and eventual therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nolan Brown
- 1 Gene Therapy Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill , North Carolina.,2 Department of Ophthalmology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill , North Carolina
| | - Liujiang Song
- 1 Gene Therapy Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill , North Carolina.,2 Department of Ophthalmology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill , North Carolina
| | - Nageswara R Kollu
- 1 Gene Therapy Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill , North Carolina.,2 Department of Ophthalmology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill , North Carolina
| | - Matthew L Hirsch
- 1 Gene Therapy Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill , North Carolina.,2 Department of Ophthalmology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill , North Carolina
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48
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Gil-Ranedo J, Hernando E, Valle N, Riolobos L, Maroto B, Almendral JM. Differential phosphorylation and n-terminal configuration of capsid subunits in parvovirus assembly and viral trafficking. Virology 2018. [PMID: 29524834 DOI: 10.1016/j.virol.2018.02.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
The T1 parvovirus Minute Virus of Mice (MVM) was used to study the roles that phosphorylation and N-terminal domains (Nt) configuration of capsid subunits may play in icosahedral nuclear viruses assembly. In synchronous MVM infection, capsid subunits newly assembled as two types of cytoplasmic trimeric intermediates (3VP2, and 1VP1:2VP2) harbored a VP1 phosphorylation level fivefold higher than that of VP2, and hidden Nt. Upon nuclear translocation at S phase, VP1-Nt became exposed in the heterotrimer and subsequent subviral assembly intermediates. Empty capsid subunits showed a phosphorylation level restored to VP1:VP2 stoichiometry, and the Nt concealed in their interior. However ssDNA-filled virus maturing at S/G2 lacked VP1 phosphorylation and one major VP2 phosphopeptide, and exposed VP2-Nt. Endosomal VP2-Nt cleavage resulted in VP3 subunits devoid of any phospholabel, implying that incoming viral particles specifically harbor a low phosphorylation status. Phosphorylation provides a mechanistic coupling of parvovirus nuclear assembly to the cell cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jon Gil-Ranedo
- Centro de Biología Molecular "Severo Ochoa" (Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas-Universidad Autónoma de Madrid), Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - Eva Hernando
- Centro de Biología Molecular "Severo Ochoa" (Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas-Universidad Autónoma de Madrid), Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - Noelia Valle
- Centro de Biología Molecular "Severo Ochoa" (Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas-Universidad Autónoma de Madrid), Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - Laura Riolobos
- Centro de Biología Molecular "Severo Ochoa" (Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas-Universidad Autónoma de Madrid), Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - Beatriz Maroto
- Centro de Biología Molecular "Severo Ochoa" (Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas-Universidad Autónoma de Madrid), Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - José M Almendral
- Centro de Biología Molecular "Severo Ochoa" (Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas-Universidad Autónoma de Madrid), Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain.
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49
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Thadani NN, Dempsey C, Zhao J, Vasquez SM, Suh J. Reprogramming the Activatable Peptide Display Function of Adeno-Associated Virus Nanoparticles. ACS NANO 2018; 12:1445-1454. [PMID: 29278489 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.7b07804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
We harnessed an intrinsic activatable peptide display behavior shared by several parvoviruses, including the adeno-associated virus (AAV), in order to design protein-based nanodevices that can carry out an exogenous functional output in response to stimulus detection. Specifically, we generated truncated viral capsid subunits that, when combined with native capsid components into mosaic capsids, can perform robust activatable peptide display. By modulating the ratio of subunits in the mosaic capsid, properties of the activatable peptide display function can be optimized. Interestingly, the truncated subunits can form homomeric capsids not observed in nature, but at the price of losing the ability to carry out activatable peptide display. Collectively, our results demonstrate the importance of capsid mosaicism when activatable peptide display is desired and help explain why the wild-type AAV capsid exists as a mosaic of different subunits. This proof-of-concept study illustrates a strategy for reprogramming a particular conformational output behavior of AAV in pursuit of the long-term vision of creating stimulus-responsive nanodevices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole N Thadani
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University , Houston, Texas 77005, United States
| | - Christopher Dempsey
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University , Houston, Texas 77005, United States
| | - Julia Zhao
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University , Houston, Texas 77005, United States
| | - Sonya M Vasquez
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University , Houston, Texas 77005, United States
| | - Junghae Suh
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University , Houston, Texas 77005, United States
- Systems, Synthetic and Physical Biology, Rice University , Houston, Texas 77005, United States
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50
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Wang Q, Wu Z, Zhang J, Firrman J, Wei H, Zhuang Z, Liu L, Miao L, Hu Y, Li D, Diao Y, Xiao W. A Robust System for Production of Superabundant VP1 Recombinant AAV Vectors. MOLECULAR THERAPY-METHODS & CLINICAL DEVELOPMENT 2017; 7:146-156. [PMID: 29255740 PMCID: PMC5721209 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2017.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2017] [Accepted: 11/01/2017] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Recombinant adeno-associated viral (rAAV) vectors have been widely used in human gene therapy. One major impediment to its broad application is the inability to produce high-quality vectors in mass quantity. Here, an efficient and scalable suspension cell culture system for the production of rAAV vectors is described. In this system, the AAV trans factors, Rep78, Rep52, VP1, VP2, and VP3, were stably integrated into a single vaccinia virus carrier by maximizing the use of alternative codons between genes with identical amino acids, and the cis rAAV genome was carried by an E1/E3 gene-deleted adenovirus. Infection of improved, E1 integrated, suspension-cultured cells with these two viral vectors resulted in the robust production of rAAV vectors. The newly enhanced system can consistently produce ∼1 × 1015 genome containing rAAV vectors per liter of suspension cells. Moreover, the capsid composition of rAAV vectors produced by this system is markedly different from those produced using the traditional system in that the VP1 protein is more abundant than the VP2 protein (19:1 versus 1:1). The unique VP1 superabundant rAAV vectors produced in this new system exhibited improved transduction in vivo after intravitreal injection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qizhao Wang
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Huaqiao University, Quanzhou, Fujian, China.,Sol Sherry Thrombosis Research Center, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA.,Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Zhongren Wu
- Sol Sherry Thrombosis Research Center, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Junping Zhang
- Sol Sherry Thrombosis Research Center, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Jenni Firrman
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA.,United States Department of Agriculture, ARS, ERRC, Wyndmoor, PA, USA
| | - Hongying Wei
- Sol Sherry Thrombosis Research Center, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Zhengjing Zhuang
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Huaqiao University, Quanzhou, Fujian, China
| | - LinShu Liu
- United States Department of Agriculture, ARS, ERRC, Wyndmoor, PA, USA
| | - Linqing Miao
- Shriners Hospital Pediatric Research Center, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Yang Hu
- Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Dong Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tongji Hospital of Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yong Diao
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Huaqiao University, Quanzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Weidong Xiao
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Huaqiao University, Quanzhou, Fujian, China.,Sol Sherry Thrombosis Research Center, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA.,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA.,Cardiovascular Research Center, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA.,Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tongji Hospital of Tongji University, Shanghai, China
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