Adeno-Associated Virus Gene Therapy for Hemophilia

Pre-clinical evaluation of an enhanced-function factor VIII variant for durable hemophilia A gene therapy in male mice

Durable factor VIII expression that normalizes hemostasis is an unrealized goal of hemophilia A adeno-associated virus-mediated gene therapy. Trials with initially normal factor VIII activity observed unexplained year-over-year declines in expression while others reported low-level, stable expression inadequate to restore normal hemostasis. Here we demonstrate that male mice recapitulate expression-level-dependent loss of factor VIII levels due to declines in vector copy number. We show that an enhanced function factor VIII variant (factor VIII-R336Q/R562Q), resistant to activated protein C-mediated inactivation, normalizes hemostasis at below-normal expression without evidence of prothrombotic risk in male hemophilia A mice. These data support that factor VIII-R336Q/R562Q may restore normal factor VIII function at low levels of expression to permit durability using low vector doses to minimize dose-dependent adeno-associated virus toxicities. This work informs the mechanism of factor VIII durability after gene transfer and supports that factor VIII-R336Q/R562Q may safely overcome current hemophilia A gene therapy limitations.

Development and characterization of a first-in-class adjustable-dose gene therapy system

INTRODUCTION

Despite significant potential, gene therapy has been relegated to the treatment of rare diseases, due in part to an inability to adjust dosage following initial administration. Other significant constraints include cost, specificity, antigenicity, and systemic toxicity of current generation technologies. To overcome these challenges, we developed a first-in-class adjustable-dose gene therapy system, with optimized biocompatibility, localization, durability, and cost.

METHODS

A lipid nanoparticle (LNP) delivery system was developed and characterized by dynamic light scattering for size, zeta potential, and polydispersity. Cytocompatibility and transfection efficiency were optimized in vitro using primary human adipocytes and preadipocytes. Durability, immunogenicity, and adjustment of expression were evaluated in C57BL/6 and B6 albino mice using in vivo bioluminescence imaging. Biodistribution was assessed by qPCR and immunohistochemistry; therapeutic protein expression was quantified by ELISA.

RESULTS

Following LNP optimization, in vitro transfection efficiency of primary human adipocytes reached 81.3 % ± 8.3 % without compromising cytocompatibility. Critical physico-chemical properties of the system (size, zeta potential, polydispersity) remained stable over a broad range of genetic cassette sizes (1,871-6,203 bp). Durable expression was observed in vivo over 6 months, localizing to subcutaneous adipose tissues at the injection site with no detectable transgene in the liver, heart, spleen, or kidney. Gene expression was adjustable using several physical and pharmacological approaches, including cryolipolysis, focused ultrasound, and pharmacologically inducible apoptosis. The ability of transfected adipocytes to express therapeutic transgenes ranging from peptides to antibodies, at potentially clinically relevant levels, was confirmed in vitro and in vivo.

CONCLUSION

We report the development of a novel, low-cost therapeutic platform, designed to enable the replacement of subcutaneously administered protein treatments with a single-injection, adjustable-dose gene therapy.

Gene therapy for ultrarare diseases: a geneticist's perspective

Gene therapy has made considerable strides in recent years. More than 4000 protein-coding genes have been implicated in more than 6000 genetic diseases; next-generation sequencing has dramatically revolutionized the diagnosis of genetic diseases. Most genetic diseases are considered very rare or ultrarare, defined here as having fewer than 1:100,000 cases, but only one of the 12 approved gene therapies (excluding RNA therapies) targets an ultrarare disease. This article explores three gene supplementation therapy approaches suitable for various rare genetic diseases: lentiviral vector-modified autologous CD34+ hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, systemic delivery of adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors to the liver, and local AAV delivery to the cerebrospinal fluid and brain. Together with RNA therapies, we propose a potential business model for these gene therapies.

Meeting Report: 2023 Muscular Dystrophy Association Summit on 'Safety and Challenges in Gene Therapy of Neuromuscular Diseases'

 This meeting report summarizes the presentations and discussions held at the summit on Challenges in Gene Therapy hosted by the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) in 2023. Topics covered include safety issues, mitigation strategies and practical considerations pertaining to the clinical translation of gene therapies for neuromuscular disease. The listing of actionable recommendations will assist in overall efforts in the field to achieve safe and efficacious translation of gene therapies for neuromuscular disease patients.

Valoctocogene Roxaparvovec and Etranacogene Dezaparavovec: Novel Gene Therapies for Hemophilia A and B

OBJECTIVE

To review efficacy and safety data of valoctocogene roxaparvovec (Roctavian) and etranacogene dezaparavovec (Hemgenix), novel gene therapies for the treatment of the life-threatening bleeding disorders hemophilia A and B, respectively.

DATA SOURCES

A PubMed/Google Scholar search from inception through August 11, 2023 was conducted using the following keywords: gene therapy, hemophilia A, hemophilia B, etranacogene dezaparavovec, valoctocogene roxaparvovec, and bleeding.

STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION

Data, including phase 1 to 3 clinical trials (non-comparator), were obtained from primary literature and package inserts. These reports evaluated clinical pharmacology, efficacy, safety, adverse events, warnings, and precautions.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Valoctocogene phase 3 study in males (n = 134): 87% had factor VIII (FVIII) levels that at least met criteria for mild hemophilia. Etranacogene phase 3 study in males (n = 54): within 3 weeks of infusion, mean factor IX (FIX) levels had reached 26.8 IU/dL. Both therapies provided clinically and statistically significant decreases in bleeding events and prophylactic factor infusions. Most common adverse event was elevations in liver function tests that were treated with glucocorticoids.

RELEVANCE TO PATIENT CARE AND CLINICAL PRACTICE IN COMPARISON WITH EXISTING DRUGS

The endogenous production of clotting factors mimics physiological production while decreasing morbidity and mortality related to bleeding events similar to the effects of existing replacement strategies. Gene therapy was also shown to increase patient quality of life.

CONCLUSION

Valoctocogene and etranacogene provide another treatment for selected patients with hemophilia. Treatment for the patient with hemophilia (gene therapy vs replacement strategy) must be personalized as new clinical data are published being cognizant of drug affordability.

Advanced gene therapy system for the treatment of solid tumour: A review

In contrast to conventional therapies that require repeated dosing, gene therapy can treat diseases by correcting defective genes after a single transfection and achieving cascade amplification, and has been widely studied in clinical settings. However, nucleic acid drugs are prone to catabolism and inactivation. A variety of nucleic acid drug vectors have been developed to protect the target gene against nuclease degradation and increase the transformation efficiency and safety of gene therapy. In addition, gene therapy is often combined with chemotherapy, phototherapy, magnetic therapy, ultrasound, and other therapeutic modalities to improve the therapeutic effect. This review systematically introduces ribonucleic acid (RNA) interference technology, antisense oligonucleotides, and clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat/CRISPR-associated nuclease 9 (CRISPR/Cas9) genome editing. It also introduces the commonly used nucleic acid drug vectors, including viral vectors (adenovirus, retrovirus, etc.), organic vectors (lipids, polymers, etc.), and inorganic vectors (MOFs, carbon nanotubes, mesoporous silica, etc.). Then, we describe the combined gene therapy modalities and the pathways of action and report the recent applications in solid tumors of the combined gene therapy. Finally, the challenges of gene therapy in solid tumor treatment are introduced, and the prospect of application in this field is presented.

Nanoparticle-Patch System for Localized, Effective, and Sustained miRNA Administration into Infarcted Myocardium to Alleviate Myocardial Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury

Timely blood reperfusion after myocardial infarction (MI) paradoxically triggers ischemia-reperfusion injury (I/RI), which currently has not been conquered by clinical treatments. Among innovative repair strategies for myocardial I/RI, microRNAs (miRNAs) are expected as genetic tools to rescue damaged myocardium. Our previous study identified that miR-30d can provide protection against myocardial apoptosis and fibrosis to alleviate myocardial injury. Although common methods such as liposomes and viral vectors have been used for miRNA transfection, their therapeutic efficiencies have struggled with inefficient in vivo delivery, susceptible inactivation, and immunogenicity. Here, we establish a nanoparticle-patch system for miR-30d delivery in a murine myocardial I/RI model, which contains ZIF-8 nanoparticles and a conductive microneedle patch. Loaded with miR-30d, ZIF-8 nanoparticles leveraging the proton sponge effect enable miR-30d to escape the endocytic pathway, thus avoiding premature degradation in lysosomes. Meanwhile, the conductive microneedle patch offers a distinct advantage by intramyocardial administration for localized, effective, and sustained miR-30d delivery, and it simultaneously releases Au nanoparticles to reconstruct electrical impulses within the infarcted myocardium. Consequently, the nanoparticle-patch system supports the consistent and robust expression of miR-30d in cardiomyocytes. Results from echocardiography and electrocardiogram (ECG) revealed improved heart functions and standard ECG wave patterns in myocardial I/RI mice after implantation of a nanoparticle-patch system for 3 and 6 weeks. In summary, our work incorporated conductive microneedle patch and miR-30d nanodelivery systems to synergistically transcend the limitations of common RNA transfection methods, thus mitigating myocardial I/RI.

Correlation of antigen expression with epigenetic modifications after rAAV delivery of a human factor IX variant in mice and rhesus macaques

We investigated long-term human coagulation factor IX (huFIX) expression of a novel variant when delivered into mice and rhesus macaques and compared transduction efficiencies using two different adeno-associated virus (AAV) capsids. In hemophilic mice injected with KP1-packaged recombinant AAV (rAAV) expressing the hyperactive FIX variant specific activity plasma levels were 10-fold or 2-fold enhanced when compared with wild-type or Padua huFIX injected mice, respectively. In rhesus macaques AAV-LK03 capsid outperformed AAV-KP1 in terms of antigen expression and liver transduction. Two animals from each group showed sustained low-level huFIX expression at 3 months after administration, while one animal from each group lost huFIX mRNA and protein expression over time, despite comparable vector copies. We investigated whether epigenetic differences in the vector episomes could explain this loss of transcription. Cut&Tag analysis revealed lower levels of activating histone marks in the two animals that lost expression. When comparing rAAV genome associated histone modifications in rhesus macaques with those in mice injected with the same vector, the activating histone marks were starkly decreased in macaque-derived episomes. Differential epigenetic marking of AAV genomes may explain different expression profiles in mice and rhesus macaques, as well as the wide dose response variation observed in primates in both preclinical and human clinical trials.

Circumventing B Cell Responses to Allow for Redosing of Adeno-Associated Virus Vectors

Adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated gene therapy has made significant progress in the last few decades. Nevertheless, challenges imposed by the immune system remain. The very high doses of AAV vectors used for some disorders have resulted in serious adverse events (SAEs) or even deaths, demonstrating that AAV vector doses that can safely be injected into patients are limited and for some indications below the therapeutic dose. Currently used immunosuppressive drugs have not prevented the SAEs, indicating that it may be prudent to treat patients with repeated transfer of moderate doses rather than a single injection of high doses of AAV vectors. The former approach has been avoided as AAV vectors elicit neutralizing antibodies that prevent successful reapplication of serologically crossreactive vectors. Immunosuppressive regimens that block B cell responses to AAV vectors or treatments that remove AAV neutralizing antibodies thus need to be developed to allow for a shift from toxic single-dose injections of AAV vectors to repeated treatments with more moderate and safe doses. Preventing or blocking antibody responses would also allow for redosing of patients with declining transgene product expression, or for effective AAV-mediated gene transfer into patients with the pre-existing neutralizing antibodies.

Drug product Formulation and Fill/Finish Manufacturing Process Considerations for AAV-Based Genomic Medicines

Adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) have become the delivery medium of choice for a variety of genomic medicine applications i.e., gene therapy, gene editing/regulation, and ex-vivo cell therapy. AAVs are protein-DNA complexes which have unique stability characteristics that are susceptible to various stress exposure conditions commonly seen in the drug product (DP) life cycle. This review takes a comprehensive look at AAV DP formulation and process development considerations that could impact critical quality attributes (CQAs) during manufacturing, packaging, shipping, and clinical use. Additional aspects related to AAV development reviewed herein are: (1) Different AAV serotypes with unique protein sequences and charge characteristics potentially leading to discrete stability profiles; (2) Manufacturing process challenges and optimization efforts to improve yield, recovery and purity especially during early development activities; and (3) Defining and identifying CQAs with analytical methods which are constantly evolving and present unique characterization challenges for AAV-based products.

Clinical analysis and quality of life survey of hemophilia B patients in the central and western regions of China

Objective

To study the current status of hemophilia B (HB) patients in the central and western regions of China.

Methods

This cross-sectional, multicenter study was conducted in seven provinces in the central and western regions of China from April 2019 to June 2023. Samples were collected for the factor IX activity, inhibitor screen, and gene mutation. Furthermore, the status of six index joints and quality of life (QoL) were assessed.

Results

A total of 185 HB patients (mild 15, moderate 75, and severe 95) with a median age of 12.17 years were enrolled. 30.3% (56/185) of patients had a family history of HB. 34.6% (64/185) of HB patients had diagnostic delay and 38.5% (69/179) experienced treatment delay. The incidence of inhibitors was 6.1% (11/179). We identified 123 genetic variants in this study, with missense mutations being the most common. 84.0% (89/106) of HB mothers were genetically identified as carriers, with 27.7% (13/47) of carriers having clotting factor levels less than 0.40 IU/ml. 71.4% (132/185) of HB patients had a history of joint hemorrhage, with a rate of target joint in these patients was 64.4% (85/132). Lower extremity joints were most often affected in patients. The Hemophilia Joint Health Score (HJHS) score was significantly positively correlated with the Hemophilia Early Arthropathy Detection with Ultrasound in China (HEAD-US-C) (r = 0.542, P < 0.001). Patients who received prevention treatment, inhibitor negative, without treatment delay, and without high-intensity replacement therapy showed a higher total score of the short form-36 health survey (SF-36).

Conclusions

One-third of HB patients had delay in diagnosis and treatment, and the incidence of inhibitors was 6.1%. Target joints were present in nearly half of HB patients. Missense was the main mutation type. 84.0% of mothers of HB patients in this study were found to be carriers. HEAD-US-C and HJHS can complement each other in the evaluation of joint status and give a valid basis for early clinical management. Early detection and preventive treatment, as well as reducing high-intensity replacement therapy and inhibitor generation, can effectively improve the QoL of patients.

In vivo LNP-CRISPR Approaches for the Treatment of Hemophilia

Hemophilia is a genetic disorder that is caused by mutations in coagulation factor VIII (hemophilia A) or IX (hemophilia B) genes resulting in blood clotting disorders. Despite advances in therapies, such as recombinant proteins and products with extended half-lives, the treatment of hemophilia still faces two major limitations: the short duration of therapeutic effect and production of neutralizing antibodies against clotting factors (inhibitor). To overcome these limitations, new hemophilia treatment strategies have been established such as gene therapy, bispecific antibody, and rebalancing therapy. Although these strategies have shown promising results, it is difficult to achieve a permanent therapeutic effect. Advances in the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR) technology have allowed sustainable treatment by correcting mutated genes. Since genome editing generates irreversible changes in host genome, safety must be ensured by delivering target organs. Therefore, the delivery tool of the CRISPR system is crucial for safe, accurate, and efficient genome editing. Recently, non-viral vector lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) have emerged as safer tools for delivering CRISPR systems than other viral vectors. Several previous hemophilia pre-clinical studies using LNP-CRISPR showed that sufficient and sustainable therapeutic effects, which means that LNP-CRISPR-mediated genome-editing therapy can be a valid option for the treatment of hemophilia. In this paper, we summarize the latest advancements in the successful treatment of hemophilia and the potential of CRISPR-mediated genome-editing therapy using LNPs.

Recommendations for a minimum data set for monitoring gene therapy in hemophilia: communication from the ISTH SSC Working Group on Gene Therapy

Independent data collection is crucial in addressing the challenges associated with gene therapy for hemophilia, which is a promising treatment option but requires careful monitoring and management of short-term and potential long-term safety concerns. The International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis has identified a minimum efficacy and safety data set included in the World Federation of Hemophilia Gene Therapy Registry that should be collected on a national basis at specific time points for each patient who has been treated with the gene therapy products. This Gene Therapy Minimum Data Set (GT-MDS) was developed to facilitate data collection and to ensure capturing the most relevant data and most known and unknown safety and efficacy parameters recently cited by the European Medicine Agencies. The concept of assembling a minimum data set is not about creating a new data set but rather about identifying a subset of critical and essential topics that should always be included. The GT-MDS is structured into 3 sections and comprises an abridged list of 6 topics during routine gene therapy follow-up, keeping the number of data points low but allowing for rapid and independent data evaluation. The World Federation of Hemophilia Gene Therapy Registry data set, developed by the World Federation of Hemophilia, the International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis, and other organizations, including industry partners in 2020, is comprehensive. The GT-MDS reports the minimum relevant information that should not be lost and is mandatory to be collected for all patients who undergo gene therapy. Therefore, the implementation of the gene therapy registry and the minimum data set empowers and enhances data collection at a global level.

Hemophilia Gene Therapy: Another Blessing or Another Curse?

Medical therapies for hemophilia patients over the past 60 years have included several blessings and a curse. The long-sought cure with gene therapy may have finally arrived. Unfortunately, preclinical animal models are now raising concerns for genotoxicity with gene therapy. Although no cancers have been detected in humans, it may be a few decades before we know if gene therapy for hemophilia is another blessing, or another curse.

mRNA therapies: Pioneering a new era in rare genetic disease treatment

Rare genetic diseases, often referred to as orphan diseases due to their low prevalence and limited treatment options, have long posed significant challenges to our medical system. In recent years, Messenger RNA (mRNA) therapy has emerged as a highly promising treatment approach for various diseases caused by genetic mutations. Chemically modified mRNA is introduced into cells using carriers like lipid-based nanoparticles (LNPs), producing functional proteins that compensate for genetic deficiencies. Given the advantages of precise dosing, biocompatibility, transient expression, and minimal risk of genomic integration, mRNA therapies can safely and effectively correct genetic defects in rare diseases and improve symptoms. Currently, dozens of mRNA drugs targeting rare diseases are undergoing clinical trials. This comprehensive review summarizes the progress of mRNA therapy in treating rare genetic diseases. It introduces the development, molecular design, and delivery systems of mRNA therapy, highlighting their research progress in rare genetic diseases based on protein replacement and gene editing. The review also summarizes research progress in various rare disease models and clinical trials. Additionally, it discusses the challenges and future prospects of mRNA therapy. Researchers are encouraged to join this field and collaborate to advance the clinical translation of mRNA therapy, bringing hope to patients with rare genetic diseases.

Gene Therapy in Hemophilia A: Achievements, Challenges, and Perspectives

Strides in advancements of care of persons with hemophilia include development of long-acting factor replacement therapies, novel substitution and hemostatic rebalancing agents, and most recently approved gene therapy. Several decades of preclinical and clinical trials have led to development of adeno-associated viral (AAV) vector-mediated gene transfer for endogenous production of factor VIII (FVIII) in hemophilia A (HA). Only one gene therapy product for HA (valoctocogene roxaparvovec) has been approved by regulatory authorities. Results of valoctocogene roxaparvovec trial show significant improvement in bleeding rates and use of factor replacement therapy; however, sustainability and duration of response show variability with overall decline in FVIII expression over time. Further challenges include untoward adverse effects involving liver toxicity requiring immunosuppression and development of neutralizing antibodies to AAV vector rendering future doses ineffective. Real-life applicability of gene therapy for HA will require appropriate patient screening, infrastructure setup, long-term monitoring including data collection of patient-reported outcomes and innovative payment schemes. This review article highlights the success and development of HA gene therapy trials, challenges including adverse outcomes and variability of response, and perspectives on approach to gene therapy including shared decision-making and need for future strategies to overcome the several unmet needs.

The benefits of gene therapy in people with haemophilia

Haemophilia is an inherited bleeding disorder which causes significant morbidity and mortality, especially in the severe form. Prophylaxis with factor replacement has high efficacy in reducing bleeding but is limited by the need for frequent intravenous infusion and fluctuations in haemostasis between doses. Additional prophylaxis therapies are being developed which may overcome some of the current treatment barriers. Gene therapy (GT) is being developed to provide a functional cure such that there is sustained factor expression and minimal to no need for additional haemostatic therapy. There are now two approved gene therapies for haemophilia which may be transformative for many individuals. Benefits of GT should go beyond increasing factor activity and reducing bleeding as persons with haemophilia aim to achieve a 'haemophilia-free mind' and health equity with optimal health and well-being.

Fidanacogene Elaparvovec: First Approval

Fidanacogene elaparvovec (PrBEQVEZ™) is an adeno-associated viral (AAV) vector-based gene therapy developed by Spark Therapeutics (a subsidiary of Roche) and Pfizer (under a license from Spark Therapeutics) for the treatment of haemophilia B. In December 2023, fidanacogene elaparvovec received its first approval for the treatment of adults (aged ≥ 18 years) with moderately severe to severe haemophilia B (congenital factor IX deficiency) who are negative for neutralizing antibodies to variant AAV serotype Rh74 (AAVRh74var). Fidanacogene elaparvovec is under regulatory review in the USA and the European Union and clinical studies are ongoing in multiple countries. This article summarizes the milestones in the development of fidanacogene elaparvovec leading to this first approval for moderately severe to severe (factor IX activity ≤ 2%) haemophilia B who are negative for neutralizing antibodies to AAVRh74var.

AAV gene therapy in companion dogs with severe hemophilia: Real-world long-term data on immunogenicity, efficacy, and quality of life

The hemophilias are the most common severe inherited bleeding disorders and are caused by deficiency of clotting factor (F) VIII (hemophilia A) or FIX (hemophilia B). The resultant bleeding predisposition significantly increases morbidity and mortality. The ability to improve the bleeding phenotype with modest increases in clotting factor levels has enabled the development and regulatory approval of adeno-associated viral (AAV) vector gene therapies for people with hemophilia A and B. The canine hemophilia model has proven to be one of the best predictors of therapeutic response in humans. Here, we report long-term follow-up of 12 companion dogs with severe hemophilia that were treated in a real-world setting with AAV gene therapy. Despite more baseline bleeding than in research dogs, companion dogs demonstrated a 94% decrease in bleeding rates and 61% improvement in quality of life over a median of 4.1 years (range 2.6-8.9). No new anti-transgene immune responses were detected; one dog with a pre-existing anti-FVIII inhibitor achieved immune tolerance with gene therapy. Two dogs expressing 1%-5% FVIII post gene therapy experienced fatal bleeding events. These data suggest AAV liver-directed gene therapy is efficacious in a real-world setting but should target expression >5% and closely monitor those with levels in the 1%-5% range.

Immune tolerance promotion by LSEC-specific lentiviral vector-mediated expression of the transgene regulated by the stabilin-2 promoter

Liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) are specialized endocytic cells that clear the body from blood-borne pathogens and waste macromolecules through scavenger receptors (SRs). Among the various SRs expressed by LSECs is stabilin-2 (STAB2), a class H SR that binds to several ligands, among which endogenous coagulation products. Given the well-established tolerogenic function of LSECs, we asked whether the STAB2 promoter (STAB2p) would enable us to achieve LSEC-specific lentiviral vector (LV)-mediated transgene expression, and whether the expression of this transgene would be maintained over the long term due to tolerance induction. Here, we show that STAB2p ensures LSEC-specific green fluorescent protein (GFP) expression by LV in the absence of a specific cytotoxic CD8+ T cell immune response, even in the presence of GFP-specific CD8+ T cells, confirming the robust tolerogenic function of LSECs. Finally, we show that our delivery system can partially and permanently restore FVIII activity in a mouse model of severe hemophilia A without the formation of anti-FVIII antibodies. Overall, our findings establish the suitability of STAB2p for long-term LSEC-restricted expression of therapeutic proteins, such as FVIII, or to achieve antigen-specific immune tolerance in auto-immune diseases.

Platelet-targeted gene therapy induces immune tolerance in hemophilia and beyond

Blood platelets have unique storage and delivery capabilities. Platelets play fundamental roles in hemostasis, inflammatory reactions, and immune responses. Beyond their functions, platelets have been used as a target for gene therapy. Platelet-targeted gene therapy aims to deliver a sustained expression of neo-protein in vivo by genetically modifying the target cells, resulting in a cure for the disease. Even though there has been substantial progress in the field of gene therapy, the potential development of immune responses to transgene products or vectors remains a significant concern. Of note, multiple preclinical studies using platelet-specific lentiviral gene delivery to hematopoietic stem cells in hemophilia have demonstrated promising results with therapeutic levels of neo-protein that rescue the hemorrhagic bleeding phenotype and induce antigen-specific immune tolerance. Further studies using ovalbumin as a surrogate protein for platelet gene therapy have shown robust antigen-specific immune tolerance induced via peripheral clonal deletions of antigen-specific CD4- and CD8-T effector cells and induction of antigen-specific regulatory T (Treg) cells. This review discusses platelet-targeted gene therapy, focusing on immune tolerance induction.

Minimum factor VIII levels to prevent joint bleeding in mild hemophilia A

The severity of the bleeding phenotype in patients with hemophilia A (HA) broadly correlates with the degree of coagulation factor VIII (FVIII) deficiency in plasma. However, the FVIII level necessary to achieve the goal of zero joint bleeds remains unclear. This study aimed to identify the minimum FVIII level necessary to prevent joint bleeds in patients with HA. In this retrospective study, patients with congenital mild HA treated on demand, aged ≥16 years, with no history of FVIII inhibitors, followed at the Angelo Bianchi Bonomi Hemophilia and Thrombosis Center in Milan, were enrolled. We investigated 270 male patients with a median age of 45 years (16-88) and median lifelong FVIII of 21 IU/dL. One hundred patients (37%) had a lifelong history of at least 1 joint bleed. The mean annualized joint bleeding rate (AJBR) and spontaneous AJBR were 0.016 (standard deviation [SD], 0.032) and 0.001 (SD, 0.010), respectively. After adjusting for age, for each IU/dL increase in FVIII, there was a 6% reduction in AJBR and an 11% reduction in spontaneous AJBR. The minimum FVIII levels needed to prevent lifelong any joint bleeds and spontaneous joint bleeds resulted to be 19.2 IU/dL and 17.7 IU/dL, respectively. In this large cohort of persons with mild HA, we identified the minimum FVIII levels needed to prevent total and spontaneous joint bleeds (19.2 IU/dL and 17.7 IU/dL, respectively). These findings could suggest important implications for the accurate design of prophylactic therapies for persons with moderate and severe HA, including gene therapy.

Bibliometric analysis of global research trends in adeno-associated virus vector for gene therapy (1991-2022)

Background

Gene therapy involves introducing and editing foreign genes in the body to treat and prevent genetic diseases. Adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector has become a widely used tool in gene therapy due to its high safety and transfection efficiency.

Methods

This study employs bibliometric analysis to explore the foundation and current state of AAV vector application in gene therapy research. A total of 6,069 publications from 1991 to 2022 were analyzed, retrieved from the Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-E) within the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) of Clarivate Analytics. Institutions, authors, journals, references, and keywords were analyzed and visualized by using VOSviewer and CiteSpace. The R language and Microsoft Excel 365 were used for statistical analyses.

Results

The global literature on AAV vector and gene therapy exhibited consistent growth, with the United States leading in productivity, contributing 3,868 papers and obtaining the highest H-index. Noteworthy authors like Wilson JM, Samulski RJ, Hauswirth WW, and Mingozzi F were among the top 10 most productive and co-cited authors. The journal "Human Gene Therapy" published the most papers (n = 485) on AAV vector and gene therapy. Current research focuses on "gene editing," "gene structure," "CRISPR," and "AAV gene therapy for specific hereditary diseases."

Conclusion

The application of AAV vector in gene therapy has shown continuous growth, fostering international cooperation among countries and institutions. The intersection of gene editing, gene structure, CRISPR, and AAV gene therapy for specific hereditary diseases and AAV vector represents a prominent and prioritized focus in contemporary gene therapy research. This study provides valuable insights into the trends and characteristics of AAV gene therapy research, facilitating further advancements in the field.

Cellular stress and coagulation factor production: when more is not necessarily better

Remarkably, it has been 40 years since the isolation of the 2 genes involved in hemophilia A (HA) and hemophilia B (HB), encoding clotting factor (F) VIII (FVIII) and FIX, respectively. Over the years, these advances led to the development of purified recombinant protein factors that are free of contaminating viruses from human pooled plasma for hemophilia treatments, reducing the morbidity and mortality previously associated with human plasma-derived clotting factors. These discoveries also paved the way for modified factors that have increased plasma half-lives. Importantly, more recent advances have led to the development and Food and Drug Administration approval of a hepatocyte-targeted, adeno-associated viral vector-mediated gene transfer approach for HA and HB. However, major concerns regarding the durability and safety of HA gene therapy remain to be resolved. Compared with FIX, FVIII is a much larger protein that is prone to misfolding and aggregation in the endoplasmic reticulum and is poorly secreted by the mammalian cells. Due to the constraint of the packaging capacity of adeno-associated viral vector, B-domain deleted FVIII rather than the full-length protein is used for HA gene therapy. Like full-length FVIII, B-domain deleted FVIII misfolds and is inefficiently secreted. Its expression in hepatocytes activates the cellular unfolded protein response, which is deleterious for hepatocyte function and survival and has the potential to drive hepatocellular carcinoma. This review is focused on our current understanding of factors limiting FVIII secretion and the potential pathophysiological consequences upon expression in hepatocytes.

Emergent data influences the risk/benefit assessment of hemophilia gene therapy using recombinant adeno-associated virus

After decades of investigation, gene therapy has received regulatory approval to treat hemophilia. However, since gene therapy investigations were initially conceived, other avenues of treatment have revolutionized the care of hemophilia. Emergent data is showing that gene therapy may not be as beneficial as hoped and more toxic than planned. At a minimum, a reassessment of risk/benefit estimate of gene therapy for hemophilia is needed.

Awareness of individual goals, preferences, and priorities of persons with severe congenital haemophilia A for a tailored shared decision-making approach to liver-directed gene therapy. A practical guideline

In clinical medicine, shared decision making (SDM) is a well-recognized strategy to enhance engagement of both patients and clinicians in medical decisions. The success of liver-directed gene therapy (GT) to transform severe congenital haemophilia A (HA) from an incurable to a curable disease has launched a shift beyond current standards of treatment. However, GT acceptance remains low in the community of HA persons. We argue for both persons with haemophilia (PWH) and specialists in HA care including clinicians, as needing SDM-oriented educational programs devoted to GT. Here, we provide an ad hoc outline to implement education to SDM and tailor clinician information on GT to individual PWHs. Based on routine key components of SDM: patient priorities; recommendations based on individual risk reduction; adverse effects; drug-drug interactions; alternatives to GT; and ongoing re-assessment of the objectives as risk factors (and individual priorities) change, this approach is finalized to exploit efficacious communication.

PET imaging of focused-ultrasound enhanced delivery of AAVs into the murine brain

Rationale: Despite recent advances in the use of adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) as potential vehicles for genetic intervention of central and peripheral nervous system-associated disorders, gene therapy for the treatment of neuropathology in adults has not been approved to date. The currently FDA-approved AAV-vector based gene therapies rely on naturally occurring serotypes, such as AAV2 or AAV9, which display limited or no transport across the blood-brain barrier (BBB) if systemically administered. Recently developed engineered AAV variants have shown broad brain transduction and reduced off-target liver toxicity in non-human primates (NHPs). However, these vectors lack spatial selectivity for targeted gene delivery, a potentially critical limitation for delivering therapeutic doses in defined areas of the brain. The use of microbubbles, in conjunction with focused ultrasound (FUS), can enhance regional brain AAV transduction, but methods to assess transduction in vivo are needed. Methods: In a murine model, we combined positron emission tomography (PET) and optical imaging of reporter gene payloads to non-invasively assess the spatial distribution and transduction efficiency of systemically administered AAV9 after FUS and microbubble treatment. Capsid and reporter probe accumulation are reported as percent injected dose per cubic centimeter (%ID/cc) for in vivo PET quantification, whereas results for ex vivo assays are reported as percent injected dose per gram (%ID/g). Results: In a study spanning accumulation and transduction, mean AAV9 accumulation within the brain was 0.29 %ID/cc without FUS, whereas in the insonified region of interest of FUS-treated mice, the spatial mean and maximum reached ~2.3 %ID/cc and 4.3 %ID/cc, respectively. Transgene expression assessed in vivo by PET reporter gene imaging employing the pyruvate kinase M2 (PKM2)/[18F]DASA-10 reporter system increased up to 10-fold in the FUS-treated regions, as compared to mice receiving AAVs without FUS. Systemic injection of AAV9 packaging the EF1A-PKM2 transgene followed by FUS in one hemisphere resulted in 1) an average 102-fold increase in PKM2 mRNA concentration compared to mice treated with AAVs only and 2) a 12.5-fold increase in the insonified compared to the contralateral hemisphere of FUS-treated mice. Conclusion: Combining microbubbles with US-guided treatment facilitated a multi-hour BBB disruption and stable AAV transduction in targeted areas of the murine brain. This unique platform has the potential to provide insight and aid in the translation of AAV-based therapies for the treatment of neuropathologies.

Hemophilia Gene Therapy: The End of the Beginning?

Extensive preclinical research over the past 30 years has culminated in the recent regulatory approval of several gene therapy products for hemophilia. Based on the efficacy and safety data in a recently conducted phase III clinical trial, Roctavian® (valoctocogene roxaparvovec), an adeno-associated viral (AAV5) vector expressing a B domain deleted factor VIII (FVIII) complementary DNA, was approved by the European Commission and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of patients with severe hemophilia A. In addition, Hemgenix® (etranacogene dezaparvovec) was also recently approved by the European Medicines Agency and the FDA for the treatment of patients with severe hemophilia B. This product is based on an AAV5 vector expressing a hyper-active factor IX (FIX) transgene (FIX-Padua) transgene. All AAV-based phase III clinical trials to date show a significant increase in FVIII or FIX levels in the majority of treated patients, consistent with a substantial decrease in bleeding episodes and a concomitant reduction in factor usage obviating the need for factor prophylaxis in most patients. However, significant interpatient variability remains that is not fully understood. Moreover, most patients encountered short-term asymptomatic liver inflammation that was treated by immune suppression with corticosteroids or other immune suppressants. In all phase III trials to date, FIX expression has appeared relatively more stable than FVIII, though individual patients also had prolonged FVIII expression. Whether lifelong expression of clotting factors can be realized after gene therapy requires longer follow-up studies. Further preclinical development of next-generation gene editing technologies offers new prospects for the development of a sustained cure for hemophilia, not only in adults, but ultimately in children with hemophilia too.

Potential role for oral tolerance in gene therapy

Oral immunotherapies are being developed for various autoimmune diseases and allergies to suppress immune responses in an antigen-specific manner. Previous studies have shown that anti-drug antibody (inhibitor) formation in protein replacement therapy for the inherited bleeding disorder hemophilia can be prevented by repeated oral delivery of coagulation factor antigens bioencapsulated in transplastomic lettuce cells. Here, we find that this approach substantially reduces antibody development against factor VIII in hemophilia A mice treated with adeno-associated viral gene transfer. We propose that the concept of oral tolerance can be applied to prevent immune responses against therapeutic transgene products expressed in gene therapy.

Development of a haemophilia A gene therapy shared decision-making tool for clinicians

INTRODUCTION

As gene therapies are incorporated into clinical practice, shared decision-making (SDM) is recommended for implementation.

AIM

To inform development of a clinician SDM tool for haemophilia A gene therapy.

METHODS

Clinicians at US Hemophilia Treatment Centers completed semi-structured interviews about their experience with SDM and provided feedback on a clinician SDM tool prototype. Interviews were transcribed verbatim for coding and thematic content analysis.

RESULTS

Ten participants enrolled, eight physicians and two haemophilia nurses. All participants care for adults with haemophilia (1-27 years of experience) and 7 have gene therapy trials open at their institution. Confidence in having a clinical discussion about gene therapy included none (N = 1), slight (N = 3), moderate (N = 5) and high (N = 1). All participants reported familiarity with SDM and agreed that the tool would be useful for their clinical practice. Key themes in participant feedback for the tool were (1) language and presentation; (2) content; and (3) implementation. Participants highlighted the importance of providing unbiased information and having companion tools with patient-centric language.

CONCLUSION

These data highlight the need for SDM tools for haemophilia A gene therapy. Key information to include in the tool are safety, efficacy, cost and detailed information on the gene therapy process. Data should be provided in an unbiased format and allow comparison to other treatments. The tool will be evaluated in clinical practice and refined as clinical trial data and real-world experience mature.

Hemophilia gene therapy: first, do no harm

The introduction of adeno-associated virus-mediated, liver-directed gene therapy into the hemophilia treatment landscape brings not only great promise but also considerable uncertainty to a community that has a history punctuated by the devastating effects of HIV and hepatitis C virus. These infections were introduced into people with hemophilia through the innovation of factor concentrates in the 1970s and 1980s. Concentrates, heralded as a major advance in treatment at the time, brought devastation and death to the community already challenged by the complications of bleeding into joints, vital organs, and the brain. Over the past 5 decades, considerable advances in hemophilia treatment have improved the survival, quality of life, and participation of people with hemophilia, although challenges remain and health equity with their unaffected peers has not yet been achieved. The decision to take a gene therapy product is one in which an informed, holistic, and shared decision-making approach must be employed. Bias on the part of health care professionals and people with hemophilia must be addressed and minimized. Here, we review data leading to the regulatory authorization of valoctocogene roxaparvovec, an adeno-associated virus 5 gene therapy, in Europe to treat hemophilia A and etranacogene dezaparvovec-drlb in the United States and Europe to treat hemophilia B. We also provide an overview of the decision-making process and recommend steps that should be taken by the hemophilia community to ensure the safety of and optimal outcomes for people with hemophilia who choose to receive a gene therapy product.

Gene Therapy Approaches for the Treatment of Hemophilia B

In contrast to the standard enzyme-replacement therapy, administered from once per 7-14 days to 2-3 times a week in patients with severe hemophilia B, as a result of a single injection, gene therapy can restore F9 gene expression and maintain it for a prolonged time. In clinical research, the approach of delivering a functional copy of a gene using adeno-associated viral (AAV) vectors is widely used. The scientific community is actively researching possible modifications to improve delivery efficiency and expression. In preclinical studies, the possibility of genome editing using CRISPR/Cas9 technology for the treatment of hemophilia B is also being actively studied.

CRISPR-Mediated In Situ Introduction or Integration of F9-Padua in Human iPSCs for Gene Therapy of Hemophilia B

Hemophilia B (HB) is an X-linked recessive disease caused by F9 gene mutation and functional coagulation factor IX (FIX) deficiency. Patients suffer from chronic arthritis and death threats owing to excessive bleeding. Compared with traditional treatments, gene therapy for HB has obvious advantages, especially when the hyperactive FIX mutant (FIX-Padua) is used. However, the mechanism by which FIX-Padua works remains ambiguous due to a lack of research models. Here, in situ introduction of F9-Padua mutation was performed in human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) via CRISPR/Cas9 and single-stranded oligodeoxynucleotides (ssODNs). The hyperactivity of FIX-Padua was confirmed to be 364% of the normal level in edited hiPSCs-derived hepatocytes, providing a reliable model for exploring the mechanism of the hyperactivity of FIX-Padua. Moreover, the F9 cDNA containing F9-Padua was integrated before the F9 initiation codon by CRISPR/Cas9 in iPSCs from an HB patient (HB-hiPSCs). Integrated HB-hiPSCs after off-target screening were differentiated into hepatocytes. The FIX activity in the supernatant of integrated hepatocytes showed a 4.2-fold increase and reached 63.64% of the normal level, suggesting a universal treatment for HB patients with various mutations in F9 exons. Overall, our study provides new approaches for the exploration and development of cell-based gene therapy for HB.

How to translate and implement the current science of gene therapy into haemophilia care?

Gene-based therapy opens an entirely new paradigm in managing people with haemophilia (PWH), offering them the possibility of a functional cure by enabling continuous expression of factor VIII (FVIII) or factor IX (FIX) after transfer of a functional gene designed to replace the PWH's own defective gene. In recent years, significant advances in gene therapy have been made, resulting in clotting factor activity attaining near-normal levels, as reflected by 'zero bleeding rates' in previously severely inflicted patients following a single administration of adeno-associated viral (AAV) vectors. While this new approach represents a major advancement, there are still several issues that must be resolved before applying this technology in clinical practice. First, awareness, communication, and education about the therapeutic potential and modalities of gene therapy must be further strengthened. To this end, objective, unbiased, transparent, and regularly updated information must be shared, in an appropriate way and understandable language with the support of patients' organizations. Second, healthcare providers should adopt a patient-centred approach, as the 'one size fits all' approach is inappropriate when considering gene therapy. Instead, a holistic patient view taking into account their physical and mental dimensions, along with unexpressed expectations and preferences, is mandatory. Third, the consent procedure must be improved, ensuring that patients' interests are maximally protected. Finally, gene therapy is likely to be first delivered in a few centres, with the highest expertise and experience in this domain. Thus, patients should be managed based on a hub-and-spoke model, taking into account that the key to gene therapy's success lies in an optimal communication and collaboration both within and between haemophilia centres sharing their experiences in the frame of international registries. This review describes recent progress and explains outstanding hurdles that must be tackled to ease the implementation of this paradigm-changing new therapy.

Hemophilia a patients with inhibitors: Mechanistic insights and novel therapeutic implications

The development of coagulation factor VIII (FVIII) inhibitory antibodies is a serious complication in hemophilia A (HA) patients after FVIII replacement therapy. Inhibitors render regular prophylaxis ineffective and increase the risk of morbidity and mortality. Immune tolerance induction (ITI) regimens have become the only clinically proven therapy for eradicating these inhibitors. However, this is a lengthy and costly strategy. For HA patients with high titer inhibitors, bypassing or new hemostatic agents must be used in clinical prophylaxis due to the ineffective ITI regimens. Since multiple genetic and environmental factors are involved in the pathogenesis of inhibitor generation, understanding the mechanisms by which inhibitors develop could help identify critical targets that can be exploited to prevent or eradicate inhibitors. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the recent advances related to mechanistic insights into anti-FVIII antibody development and discuss novel therapeutic approaches for HA patients with inhibitors.