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Ursic-Bedoya J, Gregoire D. Hydrodynamic Transfection of Hepatocytes for the Study of Hepatocellular Carcinogenesis. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2769:77-85. [PMID: 38315390 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3694-7_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Hydrodynamic tail vein injection (HTVi), also called hydrodynamic gene transfer (HGT), is attracting increasing interest for modeling hepatic carcinogenesis. This highly versatile approach reproducibly provides efficient in vivo transfection of hepatocytes with naked DNA. Here, we give an in-depth description of the injection procedure, which is key for the success of the method. HTVi requires the injection of a large volume of a solution containing plasmids into the tail vein of the mouse. The transient right heart overload created by the injection forces the blood to flow back into the hepatic veins, enlarging the endothelial fenestrae and permeabilizing a fraction of hepatocytes for a few seconds. This results in the uptake of plasmids by the permeabilized hepatocytes, giving rise to their in vivo transfection. Including the Sleeping Beauty transposon system among the injected plasmids leads to the stable transfection of a subset of hepatocytes. HTVi is a powerful technique which enables numerous applications in liver cancer biology, such as a study of oncogene cooperation, of tumor heterogeneity, and interaction with the tumor microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Ursic-Bedoya
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, University of Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France
- Department of Hepatogastroenterology, Hepatology and Liver Transplantation Unit, Saint Eloi Hospital, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Damien Gregoire
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, University of Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France.
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2
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Moscoso CG, Steer CJ. Liver targeted gene therapy: Insights into emerging therapies. DRUG DISCOVERY TODAY. TECHNOLOGIES 2020; 34:9-19. [PMID: 33357766 DOI: 10.1016/j.ddtec.2020.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2020] [Revised: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The large number of monogenic metabolic disorders originating in the liver poses a unique opportunity for development of gene therapy modalities to pursue curative approaches. Various disorders have been successfully treated via liver-directed gene therapy, though most of the advances have been in animal models, with only limited success in clinical trials. Pre-clinical data in animals using non-viral approaches, including the Sleeping Beauty transposon system, are discussed. The various advances with viral vectors for liver-directed gene therapy are also a focus of this review, including retroviral, adenoviral, recombinant adeno-associated viral, and SV40 vectors. Genome editing techniques, including zinc finger nucleases, transcription activator-like effector nucleases and clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR), are also described. Further, the various controversies in the field with regards to somatic vs. germline editing using CRISPR in humans are explored, while also highlighting the myriad of preclinical advances. Lastly, newer technologies are reviewed, including base editing and prime editing, which use CRISPR with exciting adjunctive properties to avoid double-stranded breaks and thus the recruitment of endogenous repair mechanisms. While encouraging results have been achieved recently, there are still significant challenges to overcome prior to the broad use of vector-based and genome editing techniques in the clinical arena. As these technologies mature, the promise of a cure for many disabling inherited metabolic disorders is within reach, and urgently needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos G Moscoso
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, USA.
| | - Clifford J Steer
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, USA; Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455 USA.
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3
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Amberger M, Ivics Z. Latest Advances for the Sleeping Beauty Transposon System: 23 Years of Insomnia but Prettier than Ever: Refinement and Recent Innovations of the Sleeping Beauty Transposon System Enabling Novel, Nonviral Genetic Engineering Applications. Bioessays 2020; 42:e2000136. [PMID: 32939778 DOI: 10.1002/bies.202000136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Revised: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The Sleeping Beauty transposon system is a nonviral DNA transfer tool capable of efficiently mediating transposition-based, stable integration of DNA sequences of choice into eukaryotic genomes. Continuous refinements of the system, including the emergence of hyperactive transposase mutants and novel approaches in vectorology, greatly improve upon transposition efficiency rivaling viral-vector-based methods for stable gene insertion. Current developments, such as reversible transgenesis and proof-of-concept RNA-guided transposition, further expand on possible applications in the future. In addition, innate advantages such as lack of preferential integration into genes reduce insertional mutagenesis-related safety concerns while comparably low manufacturing costs enable widespread implementation. Accordingly, the system is recognized as a powerful and versatile tool for genetic engineering and is playing a central role in an ever-expanding number of gene and cell therapy clinical trials with the potential to become a key technology to meet the growing demand for advanced therapy medicinal products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maximilian Amberger
- Division of Medical Biotechnology, Paul Ehrlich Institute, Langen, D-63225, Germany
| | - Zoltán Ivics
- Division of Medical Biotechnology, Paul Ehrlich Institute, Langen, D-63225, Germany
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4
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Buck TM, Wijnholds J. Recombinant Adeno-Associated Viral Vectors (rAAV)-Vector Elements in Ocular Gene Therapy Clinical Trials and Transgene Expression and Bioactivity Assays. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E4197. [PMID: 32545533 PMCID: PMC7352801 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21124197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Revised: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Inherited retinal dystrophies and optic neuropathies cause chronic disabling loss of visual function. The development of recombinant adeno-associated viral vectors (rAAV) gene therapies in all disease fields have been promising, but the translation to the clinic has been slow. The safety and efficacy profiles of rAAV are linked to the dose of applied vectors. DNA changes in the rAAV gene cassette affect potency, the expression pattern (cell-specificity), and the production yield. Here, we present a library of rAAV vectors and elements that provide a workflow to design novel vectors. We first performed a meta-analysis on recombinant rAAV elements in clinical trials (2007-2020) for ocular gene therapies. We analyzed 33 unique rAAV gene cassettes used in 57 ocular clinical trials. The rAAV gene therapy vectors used six unique capsid variants, 16 different promoters, and six unique polyadenylation sequences. Further, we compiled a list of promoters, enhancers, and other sequences used in current rAAV gene cassettes in preclinical studies. Then, we give an update on pro-viral plasmid backbones used to produce the gene therapy vectors, inverted terminal repeats, production yield, and rAAV safety considerations. Finally, we assess rAAV transgene and bioactivity assays applied to cells or organoids in vitro, explants ex vivo, and clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thilo M. Buck
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), 2333 ZC Leiden, The Netherlands;
| | - Jan Wijnholds
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), 2333 ZC Leiden, The Netherlands;
- Netherlands Institute of Neuroscience, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW), 1105 BA Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Kumbhari V, Li L, Piontek K, Ishida M, Fu R, Khalil B, Garrett CM, Liapi E, Kalloo AN, Selaru FM. Successful liver-directed gene delivery by ERCP-guided hydrodynamic injection (with videos). Gastrointest Endosc 2018; 88:755-763.e5. [PMID: 30220303 PMCID: PMC6249687 DOI: 10.1016/j.gie.2018.06.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2018] [Accepted: 06/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS A simple, safe, targeted, and efficient in vivo DNA delivery system is necessary for clinical-grade liver-targeted gene therapy in humans. Intravascular hydrodynamic gene delivery has been investigated in large animal models, but translation to humans has been hampered by its technical challenges, invasiveness, and potential for significant cardiovascular adverse events. We posited that intrabiliary delivery of DNA plasmids via ERCP-guided hydrodynamic injection could overcome these obstacles. METHODS Twelve pigs (40-50 kg) were divided into 3 groups (4 per group) and survived 21, 30, or 60 days. ERCP was performed by inflating a balloon catheter in the common hepatic duct and creating a closed space between it and the liver parenchyma. Last, a solution composed of plasmid/sleeping beauty (SB) mix was injected under pressure through the catheter into the closed space. Swine were killed at the 3 different time points and liver tissue harvested. Plasmid DNA expression and functional translated protein expression were assessed. RESULTS ERCP-guided hydrodynamic delivery of naked plasmid DNA facilitated by pCytomegalovirus-Sleep Beauty (pCMV-SB) transposons was technically feasible and devoid of cardiovascular and local adverse events in all 12 pigs. Furthermore, plasmid DNA (both single and combination) was successfully transferred into swine hepatocytes in all 12 pigs. Additionally, stable integration of the DNA constructs in hepatocyte genomic DNA was reliably noted at all 3 time points. In the 4 swine that were kept alive to 60 days, successful genomic integration and subsequent protein expression was observed in the targeted liver tissue. CONCLUSIONS ERCP-guided hydrodynamic delivery of gene therapy may usher in the next chapter in gene therapy with the potential to impact a variety of single-gene, complex genetic, and epigenetic liver diseases. It also raises the possibility that other nucleic acid therapeutics (microRNA, lncRNA, siRNA, shRNA) could similarly be delivered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivek Kumbhari
- Department of Medicine and Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Ling Li
- Department of Medicine and Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Klaus Piontek
- Department of Medicine and Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Masaharu Ishida
- Department of Medicine and Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Rongdang Fu
- Department of Medicine and Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Bassem Khalil
- Department of Medicine and Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Caroline M Garrett
- Department of Molecular and Comparative Pathobiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Eleni Liapi
- Department of Radiology and Radiological Sciences, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Anthony N Kalloo
- Department of Medicine and Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Florin M Selaru
- Department of Medicine and Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA; The Institute for NanoBio Technology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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6
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Hodge R, Narayanavari SA, Izsvák Z, Ivics Z. Wide Awake and Ready to Move: 20 Years of Non-Viral Therapeutic Genome Engineering with the Sleeping Beauty Transposon System. Hum Gene Ther 2018; 28:842-855. [PMID: 28870121 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2017.130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Gene therapies will only become a widespread tool in the clinical treatment of human diseases with the advent of gene transfer vectors that integrate genetic information stably, safely, effectively, and economically. Two decades after the discovery of the Sleeping Beauty (SB) transposon, it has been transformed into a vector system that is fulfilling these requirements. SB may well overcome some of the limitations associated with viral gene transfer vectors and transient non-viral gene delivery approaches that are being used in the majority of ongoing clinical trials. The SB system has achieved a high level of stable gene transfer and sustained transgene expression in multiple primary human somatic cell types, representing crucial steps that may permit its clinical use in the near future. This article reviews the most important aspects of SB as a tool for gene therapy, including aspects of its vectorization and genomic integration. As an illustration, the clinical development of the SB system toward gene therapy of age-related macular degeneration and cancer immunotherapy is highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Russ Hodge
- 1 Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC) , Berlin, Germany
| | - Suneel A Narayanavari
- 1 Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC) , Berlin, Germany
| | - Zsuzsanna Izsvák
- 1 Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC) , Berlin, Germany
| | - Zoltán Ivics
- 2 Division of Medical Biotechnology, Paul Ehrlich Institute , Langen, Germany
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7
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Preclinical and clinical advances in transposon-based gene therapy. Biosci Rep 2017; 37:BSR20160614. [PMID: 29089466 PMCID: PMC5715130 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20160614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2017] [Revised: 10/26/2017] [Accepted: 10/30/2017] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Transposons derived from Sleeping Beauty (SB), piggyBac (PB), or Tol2 typically require cotransfection of transposon DNA with a transposase either as an expression plasmid or mRNA. Consequently, this results in genomic integration of the potentially therapeutic gene into chromosomes of the desired target cells, and thus conferring stable expression. Non-viral transfection methods are typically preferred to deliver the transposon components into the target cells. However, these methods do not match the efficacy typically attained with viral vectors and are sometimes associated with cellular toxicity evoked by the DNA itself. In recent years, the overall transposition efficacy has gradually increased by codon optimization of the transposase, generation of hyperactive transposases, and/or introduction of specific mutations in the transposon terminal repeats. Their versatility enabled the stable genetic engineering in many different primary cell types, including stem/progenitor cells and differentiated cell types. This prompted numerous preclinical proof-of-concept studies in disease models that demonstrated the potential of DNA transposons for ex vivo and in vivo gene therapy. One of the merits of transposon systems relates to their ability to deliver relatively large therapeutic transgenes that cannot readily be accommodated in viral vectors such as full-length dystrophin cDNA. These emerging insights paved the way toward the first transposon-based phase I/II clinical trials to treat hematologic cancer and other diseases. Though encouraging results were obtained, controlled pivotal clinical trials are needed to corroborate the efficacy and safety of transposon-based therapies.
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8
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Tipanee J, VandenDriessche T, Chuah MK. Transposons: Moving Forward from Preclinical Studies to Clinical Trials. Hum Gene Ther 2017; 28:1087-1104. [DOI: 10.1089/hum.2017.128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jaitip Tipanee
- Department of Gene Therapy and Regenerative Medicine, Free University of Brussels (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Thierry VandenDriessche
- Department of Gene Therapy and Regenerative Medicine, Free University of Brussels (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
- Center for Molecular and Vascular Biology, Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Marinee K. Chuah
- Department of Gene Therapy and Regenerative Medicine, Free University of Brussels (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
- Center for Molecular and Vascular Biology, Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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9
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Kebriaei P, Izsvák Z, Narayanavari SA, Singh H, Ivics Z. Gene Therapy with the Sleeping Beauty Transposon System. Trends Genet 2017; 33:852-870. [PMID: 28964527 DOI: 10.1016/j.tig.2017.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2017] [Revised: 08/24/2017] [Accepted: 08/31/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The widespread clinical implementation of gene therapy requires the ability to stably integrate genetic information through gene transfer vectors in a safe, effective, and economical manner. The latest generation of Sleeping Beauty (SB) transposon vectors fulfills these requirements, and may overcome limitations associated with viral gene transfer vectors and transient nonviral gene delivery approaches that are prevalent in ongoing clinical trials. The SB system enables high-level stable gene transfer and sustained transgene expression in multiple primary human somatic cell types, thereby representing a highly attractive gene transfer strategy for clinical use. Here, we review the most important aspects of using SB for gene therapy, including vectorization as well as genomic integration features. We also illustrate the path to successful clinical implementation by highlighting the application of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-modified T cells in cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Partow Kebriaei
- Department of Stem Cell Transplant and Cellular Therapy, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Zsuzsanna Izsvák
- Mobile DNA, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany
| | - Suneel A Narayanavari
- Mobile DNA, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany
| | - Harjeet Singh
- Department of Pediatrics, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Zoltán Ivics
- Division of Medical Biotechnology, Paul Ehrlich Institute, Langen, Germany.
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10
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Aronovich EL, Hyland KA, Hall BC, Bell JB, Olson ER, Rusten MU, Hunter DW, Ellinwood NM, McIvor RS, Hackett PB. Prolonged Expression of Secreted Enzymes in Dogs After Liver-Directed Delivery of Sleeping Beauty Transposons: Implications for Non-Viral Gene Therapy of Systemic Disease. Hum Gene Ther 2017; 28:551-564. [PMID: 28530135 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2017.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The non-viral, integrating Sleeping Beauty (SB) transposon system is efficient in treating systemic monogenic disease in mice, including hemophilia A and B caused by deficiency of blood clotting factors and mucopolysaccharidosis types I and VII caused by α-L-iduronidase (IDUA) and β-glucuronidase (GUSB) deficiency, respectively. Modified approaches of the hydrodynamics-based procedure to deliver transposons to the liver in dogs were recently reported. Using the transgenic canine reporter secreted alkaline phosphatase (cSEAP), transgenic protein in the plasma was demonstrated for up to 6 weeks post infusion. This study reports that immunosuppression of dogs with gadolinium chloride (GdCl3) prolonged the presence of cSEAP in the circulation up to 5.5 months after a single vector infusion. Transgene expression declined gradually but appeared to stabilize after about 2 months at approximately fourfold baseline level. Durability of transgenic protein expression in the plasma was inversely associated with transient increase of liver enzymes alanine transaminase and aspartate transaminase in response to the plasmid delivery procedure, which suggests a deleterious effect of hepatocellular toxicity on transgene expression. GdCl3 treatment was ineffective for repeat vector infusions. In parallel studies, dogs were infused with potentially therapeutic transposons. Activities of transgenic IDUA and GUSB in plasma peaked at 50-350% of wildtype, but in the absence of immunosuppression lasted only a few days. Transposition was detectable by excision assay only when the most efficient transposase, SB100X, was used. Dogs infused with transposons encoding canine clotting factor IX (cFIX) were treated with GdCl3 and showed expression profiles similar to those in cSEAP-infused dogs, with expression peaking at 40% wt (2 μg/mL). It is concluded that GdCl3 can support extended transgene expression after hydrodynamic introduction of SB transposons in dogs, but that alternative regimens will be required to achieve therapeutic levels of transgene products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena L Aronovich
- 1 Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development and Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota , Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | | | - Bryan C Hall
- 1 Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development and Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota , Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Jason B Bell
- 1 Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development and Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota , Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Erik R Olson
- 2 Discovery Genomics, Inc. , Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Myra Urness Rusten
- 3 Department of Radiology, University of Minnesota , Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - David W Hunter
- 3 Department of Radiology, University of Minnesota , Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | | | - R Scott McIvor
- 1 Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development and Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota , Minneapolis, Minnesota.,2 Discovery Genomics, Inc. , Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Perry B Hackett
- 1 Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development and Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota , Minneapolis, Minnesota.,2 Discovery Genomics, Inc. , Minneapolis, Minnesota
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11
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Hyland KA, Aronovich EL, Olson ER, Bell JB, Rusten MU, Gunther R, Hunter DW, Hackett PB, McIvor RS. Transgene Expression in Dogs After Liver-Directed Hydrodynamic Delivery of Sleeping Beauty Transposons Using Balloon Catheters. Hum Gene Ther 2017; 28:541-550. [PMID: 28447859 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2017.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The Sleeping Beauty transposon system has been extensively tested for integration of reporter and therapeutic genes in vitro and in vivo in mice. Dogs were used as a large animal model for human therapy and minimally invasive infusion of DNA solutions. DNA solutions were delivered into the entire liver or the left side of the liver using balloon catheters for temporary occlusion of venous outflow. A peak intravascular pressure between 80 and 140 mmHg supported sufficient DNA delivery in dog liver for detection of secretable reporter proteins. Secretable reporters allowed monitoring of the time course of gene products detectable in the circulation postinfusion. Canine secreted alkaline phosphatase reporter protein levels were measured in plasma, with expression detectable for up to 6 weeks, while expression of canine erythropoietin was detectable for 7-10 days. All animals exhibited a transient increase in blood transaminases that normalized within 10 days; otherwise the treated animals were clinically normal. These results demonstrate the utility of a secreted reporter protein for real-time monitoring of gene expression in the liver in a large animal model but highlight the need for improved delivery in target tissues to support integration and long-term expression of Sleeping Beauty transposons.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elena L Aronovich
- 2 Department of Genetics, Cell Biology, and Development and Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota , Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Erik R Olson
- 1 Discovery Genomics, Inc., Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Jason B Bell
- 2 Department of Genetics, Cell Biology, and Development and Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota , Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Myra Urness Rusten
- 3 Department of Radiology, University of Minnesota , Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Roland Gunther
- 4 Department of Research Animal Resources, University of Minnesota , Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - David W Hunter
- 3 Department of Radiology, University of Minnesota , Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Perry B Hackett
- 2 Department of Genetics, Cell Biology, and Development and Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota , Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - R Scott McIvor
- 1 Discovery Genomics, Inc., Minneapolis, Minnesota.,2 Department of Genetics, Cell Biology, and Development and Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota , Minneapolis, Minnesota
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12
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Hudecek M, Izsvák Z, Johnen S, Renner M, Thumann G, Ivics Z. Going non-viral: the Sleeping Beauty transposon system breaks on through to the clinical side. Crit Rev Biochem Mol Biol 2017; 52:355-380. [PMID: 28402189 DOI: 10.1080/10409238.2017.1304354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Molecular medicine has entered a high-tech age that provides curative treatments of complex genetic diseases through genetically engineered cellular medicinal products. Their clinical implementation requires the ability to stably integrate genetic information through gene transfer vectors in a safe, effective and economically viable manner. The latest generation of Sleeping Beauty (SB) transposon vectors fulfills these requirements, and may overcome limitations associated with viral gene transfer vectors and transient non-viral gene delivery approaches that are prevalent in ongoing pre-clinical and translational research. The SB system enables high-level stable gene transfer and sustained transgene expression in multiple primary human somatic cell types, thereby representing a highly attractive gene transfer strategy for clinical use. Here we review several recent refinements of the system, including the development of optimized transposons and hyperactive SB variants, the vectorization of transposase and transposon as mRNA and DNA minicircles (MCs) to enhance performance and facilitate vector production, as well as a detailed understanding of SB's genomic integration and biosafety features. This review also provides a perspective on the regulatory framework for clinical trials of gene delivery with SB, and illustrates the path to successful clinical implementation by using, as examples, gene therapy for age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and the engineering of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-modified T cells in cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Hudecek
- a Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik II , Universitätsklinikum Würzburg , Würzburg , Germany
| | - Zsuzsanna Izsvák
- b Mobile DNA , Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC) , Berlin , Germany
| | - Sandra Johnen
- c Department of Ophthalmology , University Hospital RWTH Aachen , Aachen , Germany
| | - Matthias Renner
- d Division of Medical Biotechnology , Paul Ehrlich Institute , Langen, Germany
| | - Gabriele Thumann
- e Département des Neurosciences Cliniques Service d'Ophthalmologie , Hôpitaux Universitaires de Genève , Genève , Switzerland
| | - Zoltán Ivics
- d Division of Medical Biotechnology , Paul Ehrlich Institute , Langen, Germany
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13
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Verhenne S, Vandeputte N, Pareyn I, Izsvák Z, Rottensteiner H, Deckmyn H, De Meyer SF, Vanhoorelbeke K. Long-Term Prevention of Congenital Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura in ADAMTS13 Knockout Mice by Sleeping Beauty Transposon-Mediated Gene Therapy. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2017; 37:836-844. [PMID: 28254814 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.116.308680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2016] [Accepted: 02/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Severe deficiency in the von Willebrand factor-cleaving protease ADAMTS13 (a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin type 1 motif, member 13) because of mutations in the ADAMTS13 gene can lead to acute episodes of congenital thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP), requiring prompt treatment. Current treatment consists of therapeutic or prophylactic infusions of fresh frozen plasma. However, lifelong treatment with plasma products is a stressful therapy for TTP patients. Here, we describe the use of the nonviral sleeping beauty (SB) transposon system as a gene therapeutic approach to realize lifelong expression of ADAMTS13 and subsequent protection against congenital TTP. APPROACH AND RESULTS We demonstrated that hydrodynamic tail vein injection of the SB100X system expressing murine ADAMTS13 in Adamts13-/- mice resulted in long-term expression of supraphysiological levels of transgene ADAMTS13 over a period of 25 weeks. Stably expressed ADAMTS13 efficiently removed the prothrombotic ultralarge von Willebrand factor multimers present in the circulation of Adamts13-/- mice. Moreover, mice stably expressing ADAMTS13 were protected against TTP. The treated mice did not develop severe thrombocytopenia or did organ damage occur when triggered with recombinant von Willebrand factor, and this up to 20 weeks after gene transfer. CONCLUSIONS These data demonstrate the feasibility of using SB100X-mediated gene therapy to achieve sustained expression of transgene ADAMTS13 and long-term prophylaxis against TTP in Adamts13-/- mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastien Verhenne
- From the Laboratory for Thrombosis Research, KU Leuven Campus Kulak Kortrijk, Belgium (S.V., N.V., I.P., H.D., S.F.D.M., K.V.); Mobile DNA, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, Berlin, Germany (Z.I.); and Shire, Gene Therapy, Vienna, Austria (H.R.)
| | - Nele Vandeputte
- From the Laboratory for Thrombosis Research, KU Leuven Campus Kulak Kortrijk, Belgium (S.V., N.V., I.P., H.D., S.F.D.M., K.V.); Mobile DNA, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, Berlin, Germany (Z.I.); and Shire, Gene Therapy, Vienna, Austria (H.R.)
| | - Inge Pareyn
- From the Laboratory for Thrombosis Research, KU Leuven Campus Kulak Kortrijk, Belgium (S.V., N.V., I.P., H.D., S.F.D.M., K.V.); Mobile DNA, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, Berlin, Germany (Z.I.); and Shire, Gene Therapy, Vienna, Austria (H.R.)
| | - Zsuzsanna Izsvák
- From the Laboratory for Thrombosis Research, KU Leuven Campus Kulak Kortrijk, Belgium (S.V., N.V., I.P., H.D., S.F.D.M., K.V.); Mobile DNA, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, Berlin, Germany (Z.I.); and Shire, Gene Therapy, Vienna, Austria (H.R.)
| | - Hanspeter Rottensteiner
- From the Laboratory for Thrombosis Research, KU Leuven Campus Kulak Kortrijk, Belgium (S.V., N.V., I.P., H.D., S.F.D.M., K.V.); Mobile DNA, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, Berlin, Germany (Z.I.); and Shire, Gene Therapy, Vienna, Austria (H.R.)
| | - Hans Deckmyn
- From the Laboratory for Thrombosis Research, KU Leuven Campus Kulak Kortrijk, Belgium (S.V., N.V., I.P., H.D., S.F.D.M., K.V.); Mobile DNA, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, Berlin, Germany (Z.I.); and Shire, Gene Therapy, Vienna, Austria (H.R.)
| | - Simon F De Meyer
- From the Laboratory for Thrombosis Research, KU Leuven Campus Kulak Kortrijk, Belgium (S.V., N.V., I.P., H.D., S.F.D.M., K.V.); Mobile DNA, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, Berlin, Germany (Z.I.); and Shire, Gene Therapy, Vienna, Austria (H.R.)
| | - Karen Vanhoorelbeke
- From the Laboratory for Thrombosis Research, KU Leuven Campus Kulak Kortrijk, Belgium (S.V., N.V., I.P., H.D., S.F.D.M., K.V.); Mobile DNA, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, Berlin, Germany (Z.I.); and Shire, Gene Therapy, Vienna, Austria (H.R.).
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14
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Muñoz-Lopez M, Vilar-Astasio R, Tristan-Ramos P, Lopez-Ruiz C, Garcia-Pérez JL. Study of Transposable Elements and Their Genomic Impact. Methods Mol Biol 2016; 1400:1-19. [PMID: 26895043 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-3372-3_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Transposable elements (TEs) have been considered traditionally as junk DNA, i.e., DNA sequences that despite representing a high proportion of genomes had no evident cellular functions. However, over the last decades, it has become undeniable that not only TE-derived DNA sequences have (and had) a fundamental role during genome evolution, but also TEs have important implications in the origin and evolution of many genomic disorders. This concise review provides a brief overview of the different types of TEs that can be found in genomes, as well as a list of techniques and methods used to study their impact and mobilization. Some of these techniques will be covered in detail in this Method Book.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Muñoz-Lopez
- Department of Human DNA Variability, Pfizer/University of Granada and Andalusian Regional Government Center for Genomics and Oncology (GENYO), Avda Ilustracion 114, PTS Granada, 18016, Granada, Spain.
| | - Raquel Vilar-Astasio
- Department of Human DNA Variability, Pfizer/University of Granada and Andalusian Regional Government Center for Genomics and Oncology (GENYO), Avda Ilustracion 114, PTS Granada, 18016, Granada, Spain
| | - Pablo Tristan-Ramos
- Department of Human DNA Variability, Pfizer/University of Granada and Andalusian Regional Government Center for Genomics and Oncology (GENYO), Avda Ilustracion 114, PTS Granada, 18016, Granada, Spain
| | - Cesar Lopez-Ruiz
- Department of Human DNA Variability, Pfizer/University of Granada and Andalusian Regional Government Center for Genomics and Oncology (GENYO), Avda Ilustracion 114, PTS Granada, 18016, Granada, Spain
| | - Jose L Garcia-Pérez
- -Genyo (Center for Genomics and Oncological Research), Pfizer/Universidad de Granada/Junta de Andalucia. PTS Granada, Spain-Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine (IGMM), University of Edinburgh,, Edinburgh, UK
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15
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Vargas JE, Chicaybam L, Stein RT, Tanuri A, Delgado-Cañedo A, Bonamino MH. Retroviral vectors and transposons for stable gene therapy: advances, current challenges and perspectives. J Transl Med 2016; 14:288. [PMID: 27729044 PMCID: PMC5059932 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-016-1047-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2016] [Accepted: 10/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Gene therapy protocols require robust and long-term gene expression. For two decades, retrovirus family vectors have offered several attractive properties as stable gene-delivery vehicles. These vectors represent a technology with widespread use in basic biology and translational studies that require persistent gene expression for treatment of several monogenic diseases. Immunogenicity and insertional mutagenesis represent the main obstacles to a wider clinical use of these vectors. Efficient and safe non-viral vectors are emerging as a promising alternative and facilitate clinical gene therapy studies. Here, we present an updated review for beginners and expert readers on retro and lentiviruses and the latest generation of transposon vectors (sleeping beauty and piggyBac) used in stable gene transfer and gene therapy clinical trials. We discuss the potential advantages and disadvantages of these systems such as cellular responses (immunogenicity or genome modification of the target cell) following exogenous DNA integration. Additionally, we discuss potential implications of these genome modification tools in gene therapy and other basic and applied science contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Eduardo Vargas
- Centro Infantil-Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul-PUCRS, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Leonardo Chicaybam
- Programa de Carcinogênese Molecular, Instituto Nacional de Câncer (INCA), Rua Andre Cavalcanti 37/6º andar, Centro, Rio de Janeiro, 20231-050, Brazil.,Vice-presidência de Pesquisa e Laboratórios de Referência, Fundação Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Renato Tetelbom Stein
- Centro Infantil-Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul-PUCRS, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Amilcar Tanuri
- Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | - Martin H Bonamino
- Programa de Carcinogênese Molecular, Instituto Nacional de Câncer (INCA), Rua Andre Cavalcanti 37/6º andar, Centro, Rio de Janeiro, 20231-050, Brazil. .,Vice-presidência de Pesquisa e Laboratórios de Referência, Fundação Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
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16
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Narayanavari SA, Chilkunda SS, Ivics Z, Izsvák Z. Sleeping Beauty transposition: from biology to applications. Crit Rev Biochem Mol Biol 2016; 52:18-44. [PMID: 27696897 DOI: 10.1080/10409238.2016.1237935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Sleeping Beauty (SB) is the first synthetic DNA transposon that was shown to be active in a wide variety of species. Here, we review studies from the last two decades addressing both basic biology and applications of this transposon. We discuss how host-transposon interaction modulates transposition at different steps of the transposition reaction. We also discuss how the transposon was translated for gene delivery and gene discovery purposes. We critically review the system in clinical, pre-clinical and non-clinical settings as a non-viral gene delivery tool in comparison with viral technologies. We also discuss emerging SB-based hybrid vectors aimed at combining the attractive safety features of the transposon with effective viral delivery. The success of the SB-based technology can be fundamentally attributed to being able to insert fairly randomly into genomic regions that allow stable long-term expression of the delivered transgene cassette. SB has emerged as an efficient and economical toolkit for safe and efficient gene delivery for medical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suneel A Narayanavari
- a Mobile DNA , Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC) , Berlin , Germany
| | - Shreevathsa S Chilkunda
- a Mobile DNA , Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC) , Berlin , Germany
| | - Zoltán Ivics
- b Division of Medical Biotechnology , Paul Ehrlich Institute , Langen , Germany
| | - Zsuzsanna Izsvák
- a Mobile DNA , Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC) , Berlin , Germany
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17
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A Broad Range of Dose Optima Achieve High-level, Long-term Gene Expression After Hydrodynamic Delivery of Sleeping Beauty Transposons Using Hyperactive SB100x Transposase. MOLECULAR THERAPY-NUCLEIC ACIDS 2016; 5:e279. [PMID: 26784638 PMCID: PMC5012552 DOI: 10.1038/mtna.2015.54] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2015] [Accepted: 11/15/2015] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The Sleeping Beauty (SB) transposon system has been shown to enable long-term gene expression by integrating new sequences into host cell chromosomes. We found that the recently reported SB100x hyperactive transposase conferred a surprisingly high level of long-term expression after hydrodynamic delivery of luciferase-encoding reporter transposons in the mouse. We conducted dose-ranging studies to determine the effect of varying the amount of SB100x transposase-encoding plasmid (pCMV-SB100x) at a set dose of luciferase transposon and of varying the amount of transposon-encoding DNA at a set dose of pCMV-SB100x in hydrodynamically injected mice. Animals were immunosuppressed using cyclophosphamide in order to prevent an antiluciferase immune response. At a set dose of transposon DNA (25 µg), we observed a broad range of pCMV-SB100x doses (0.1–2.5 µg) conferring optimal levels of long-term expression (>1011 photons/second/cm2). At a fixed dose of 0.5 μg of pCMV-SB100x, maximal long-term luciferase expression (>1010 photons/second/cm2) was achieved at a transposon dose of 5–125 μg. We also found that in the linear range of transposon doses (100 ng), co-delivering the CMV-SB100x sequence on the same plasmid was less effective in achieving long-term expression than delivery on separate plasmids. These results show marked flexibility in the doses of SB transposon plus pCMV-SB100x that achieve maximal SB-mediated gene transfer efficiency and long-term gene expression after hydrodynamic DNA delivery to mouse liver.
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18
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Hou X, Du Y, Deng Y, Wu J, Cao G. Sleeping Beauty transposon system for genetic etiological research and gene therapy of cancers. Cancer Biol Ther 2015; 16:8-16. [PMID: 25455252 DOI: 10.4161/15384047.2014.986944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Carcinogenesis is etiologically associated with somatic mutations of critical genes. Recently, a number of somatic mutations and key molecules have been found to be involved in functional networks affecting cancer progression. Suitable animal models are required to validate cancer-promoting or -inhibiting capacities of these mutants and molecules. Sleeping Beauty transposon system consists of a transposon that carries gene(s) of interest and a transposase that recognizes, excises, and reinserts genes in given location of the genome. It can create both gain-of-function and loss-of-function mutations, thus being frequently chosen to investigate the etiological mechanisms and gene therapy for cancers in animal models. In this review, we summarized current advances of Sleeping Beauty transposon system in revealing molecular mechanism of cancers and improving gene therapy. Understanding molecular mechanisms by which driver mutations contribute to carcinogenesis and metastasis may pave the way for the development of innovative prophylactic and therapeutic strategies against malignant diseases.
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Key Words
- 7, 12-dimethylbenzanthracene/12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate
- Alb-Cre, Albumin promoter-Cre
- CAG promoter, CMV enhancer/chicken β-actin promoter
- CAR, chimeric antigen receptor
- CIS, common insertion site
- CMV, chimeric cytomegalovirus
- CRC, colorectal cancer
- Cre, cyclization recombination enzyme
- DDE, Asp, Asp, Glu
- DMBA/TPA
- DR, direct orientation
- Fah, fumarylacetoacetate hydrolase gene
- GWAS, gnome wide analysis study
- HBV, Hepatitis B Virus
- HBx, HBV X protein
- HCC, hepatocellular carcinoma
- IRs, inverted repeat sequences
- LsL, loxP-stop-loxP
- MPNSTs, malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor
- MSCV, murine stem cell virus
- PAI, Pro, Ala, Ile
- PBMCs, peripheral blood mononuclear cells
- RED, Arg, Glu, Asp
- RosaSBaseLsL, Cre-inducible SBase allele
- Rtl1, Retrotransposon-like 1
- SB, Sleeping Beauty
- SBase, Sleeping Beauty transposase
- Sleeping Beauty transposon system
- StatinAE, angiostatin-endostatin fusion gene
- Trp53, transformation related protein 53
- animal model
- driver
- gene function
- gene therapy
- malignant diseases
- sgRNA, single guide RNA
- shp53, short hairpin RNA against the Trp53 gene
- somatic mutation
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaomei Hou
- a Department of Epidemiology ; Second Military Medical University ; Shanghai , China
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19
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Han SO, Li S, Bird A, Koeberl D. Synergistic Efficacy from Gene Therapy with Coreceptor Blockade and a β2-Agonist in Murine Pompe Disease. Hum Gene Ther 2015; 26:743-50. [PMID: 26417913 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2015.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Pompe disease (glycogen storage disease type II; acid maltase deficiency) is a devastating myopathy resulting from acid α-glucosidase (GAA) deficiency in striated and smooth muscle. Despite the availability of enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) with recombinant human GAA (rhGAA), the limitations of ERT have prompted the preclinical development of gene therapy. Gene therapy has the advantage of continuously producing GAA, in contrast to ERT, which requires frequent injections of rhGAA. An adeno-associated viral (AAV) vector containing a muscle-specific promoter, AAV-MHCK7hGAApA, achieved high GAA expression in heart and skeletal muscle in mice with Pompe disease. However, elevated GAA activity was not sufficient to completely clear accumulated glycogen in skeletal muscle. The process of glycogen clearance from lysosomes might require improved trafficking of GAA to the lysosomes in skeletal muscle, previously achieved with the β(2)-agonist clenbuterol that enhanced glycogen clearance in skeletal muscle without increasing GAA activity. Glycogen clearance was clearly enhanced by treatment with a nondepleting anti-CD4 monoclonal antibody (anti-CD4 mAb) along with muscle-specific GAA expression in cardiac muscle, but that treatment was not effective in skeletal muscle. Furthermore, anti-CD4 mAb treatment along with clenbuterol achieved synergistic therapeutic efficacy in both cardiac and skeletal muscle. This triple therapy increased both muscle strength and weight gain. Overall, triple therapy to enhance GAA trafficking and to suppress immune responses significantly improved the efficacy of muscle-targeted gene therapy in murine Pompe disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sang-oh Han
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center , Durham, North Carolina
| | - Songtao Li
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center , Durham, North Carolina
| | - Andrew Bird
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center , Durham, North Carolina
| | - Dwight Koeberl
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center , Durham, North Carolina
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20
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Hyland KA, Olson ER, McIvor RS. Sleeping Beauty-Mediated Drug Resistance Gene Transfer in Human Hematopoietic Progenitor Cells. Hum Gene Ther 2015; 26:657-63. [PMID: 26176276 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2015.058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The Sleeping Beauty (SB) transposon system can insert sequences into mammalian chromosomes, supporting long-term expression of both reporter and therapeutic genes. Hematopoietic progenitor cells (HPCs) are an ideal therapeutic gene transfer target as they are used in therapy for a variety of hematologic and metabolic conditions. As successful SB-mediated gene transfer into human CD34(+) HPCs has been reported by several laboratories, we sought to extend these studies to the introduction of a therapeutic gene conferring resistance to methotrexate (MTX), potentially providing a chemoprotective effect after engraftment. SB-mediated transposition of hematopoietic progenitors, using a transposon encoding an L22Y variant dihydrofolate reductase fused to green fluorescent protein, conferred resistance to methotrexate and dipyridamole, a nucleoside transport inhibitor that tightens MTX selection conditions, as assessed by in vitro hematopoietic colony formation. Transposition of individual transgenes was confirmed by sequence analysis of transposon-chromosome junctions recovered by linear amplification-mediated PCR. These studies demonstrate the potential of SB-mediated transposition of HPCs for expression of drug resistance genes for selective and chemoprotective applications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Erik R Olson
- 1 Discovery Genomics, Inc. , Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - R Scott McIvor
- 1 Discovery Genomics, Inc. , Minneapolis, Minnesota.,2 Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development, University of Minnesota , Minneapolis, Minnesota
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21
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Skipper KA, Mikkelsen JG. Delivering the Goods for Genome Engineering and Editing. Hum Gene Ther 2015; 26:486-97. [DOI: 10.1089/hum.2015.063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
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Aravalli RN, Belcher JD, Steer CJ. Liver-targeted gene therapy: Approaches and challenges. Liver Transpl 2015; 21:718-37. [PMID: 25824605 PMCID: PMC9353592 DOI: 10.1002/lt.24122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2014] [Revised: 03/06/2015] [Accepted: 03/14/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The liver plays a major role in many inherited and acquired genetic disorders. It is also the site for the treatment of certain inborn errors of metabolism that do not directly cause injury to the liver. The advancement of nucleic acid-based therapies for liver maladies has been severely limited because of the myriad untoward side effects and methodological limitations. To address these issues, research efforts in recent years have been intensified toward the development of targeted gene approaches using novel genetic tools, such as zinc-finger nucleases, transcription activator-like effector nucleases, and clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats as well as various nonviral vectors such as Sleeping Beauty transposons, PiggyBac transposons, and PhiC31 integrase. Although each of these methods uses a distinct mechanism of gene modification, all of them are dependent on the efficient delivery of DNA and RNA molecules into the cell. This review provides an overview of current and emerging therapeutic strategies for liver-targeted gene therapy and gene repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajagopal N. Aravalli
- Department of Radiology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN 54455
| | - John D. Belcher
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN 54455
| | - Clifford J. Steer
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN 54455,Genetics, Cell Biology and Development, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN 54455
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23
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Hybrid nonviral/viral vector systems for improved piggyBac DNA transposon in vivo delivery. Mol Ther 2015; 23:667-74. [PMID: 25557623 DOI: 10.1038/mt.2014.254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2014] [Accepted: 12/19/2014] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The DNA transposon piggyBac is a potential therapeutic agent for multiple genetic diseases such as cystic fibrosis (CF). Recombinant piggyBac transposon and transposase are typically codelivered by plasmid transfection; however, plasmid delivery is inefficient in somatic cells in vivo and is a barrier to the therapeutic application of transposon-based vector systems. Here, we investigate the potential for hybrid piggyBac/viral vectors to transduce cells and support transposase-mediated genomic integration of the transposon. We tested both adenovirus (Ad) and adeno-associated virus (AAV) as transposon delivery vehicles. An Ad vector expressing hyperactive insect piggyBac transposase (iPB7) was codelivered. We show transposase-dependent transposition activity and mapped integrations in mammalian cells in vitro and in vivo from each viral vector platform. We also demonstrate efficient and persistent transgene expression following nasal delivery of piggyBac/viral vectors to mice. Furthermore, using piggyBac/Ad expressing Cystic Fibrosis transmembrane Conductance Regulator (CFTR), we show persistent correction of chloride current in well-differentiated primary cultures of human airway epithelial cells derived from CF patients. Combining the emerging technologies of DNA transposon-based vectors with well-studied adenoviral and AAV delivery provides new tools for in vivo gene transfer and presents an exciting opportunity to increase the delivery efficiency for therapeutic genes such as CFTR.
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Abstract
Hemophilia is an X-linked inherited bleeding disorder consisting of two classifications, hemophilia A and hemophilia B, depending on the underlying mutation. Although the disease is currently treatable with intravenous delivery of replacement recombinant clotting factor, this approach represents a significant cost both monetarily and in terms of quality of life. Gene therapy is an attractive alternative approach to the treatment of hemophilia that would ideally provide life-long correction of clotting activity with a single injection. In this review, we will discuss the multitude of approaches that have been explored for the treatment of both hemophilia A and B, including both in vivo and ex vivo approaches with viral and nonviral delivery vectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geoffrey L Rogers
- University of Florida, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Cellular and Molecular Therapy, Gainesville, FL 32610
| | - Roland W Herzog
- University of Florida, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Cellular and Molecular Therapy, Gainesville, FL 32610
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25
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Podetz-Pedersen KM, Vezys V, Somia NV, Russell SJ, McIvor RS. Cellular immune response against firefly luciferase after sleeping beauty-mediated gene transfer in vivo. Hum Gene Ther 2014; 25:955-65. [PMID: 25093708 PMCID: PMC4251089 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2014.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2014] [Accepted: 08/01/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The Sleeping Beauty (SB) transposon system has been shown to mediate new gene sequence integration resulting in long-term expression. Here the effectiveness of hyperactive SB100X transposase was tested, and we found that hydrodynamic co-delivery of a firefly luciferase transposon (pT2/CaL) along with SB100X transposase (pCMV-SB100X) resulted in remarkably sustained, high levels of luciferase expression. However, after 4 weeks there was a rapid, animal-by-animal loss of luciferase expression that was not observed in immunodeficient mice. We hypothesized that this sustained, high-level luciferase expression achieved using the SB100X transposase elicits an immune response in pT2/CaL co-administered mice, which was supported by the rapid loss of luciferase expression upon challenge of previously treated animals and in naive animals adoptively transferred with splenocytes from previously treated animals. Specificity of the immune response to luciferase was demonstrated by increased cytokine expression in splenocytes after exposure to luciferase peptide in parallel with MHC I-luciferase peptide tetramer binding. This anti-luciferase immune response observed following continuous, high-level luciferase expression in vivo clearly impacts its use as an in vivo reporter. As both an immunogen and an extremely sensitive reporter, luciferase is also a useful model system for the study of immune responses following in vivo gene transfer and expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly M. Podetz-Pedersen
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455
| | - Vaiva Vezys
- Department of Microbiology, Center for Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455
| | - Nikunj V. Somia
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455
| | | | - R. Scott McIvor
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455
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piggyBac-mediated phenotypic correction of factor VIII deficiency. MOLECULAR THERAPY-METHODS & CLINICAL DEVELOPMENT 2014; 1:14042. [PMID: 26015980 PMCID: PMC4362371 DOI: 10.1038/mtm.2014.42] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2014] [Accepted: 07/24/2014] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Hemophilia A, caused by a deficiency in factor VIII (FVIII), is the most severe inherited bleeding disorder. Hemophilia A is an attractive gene therapy candidate because even small increases in FVIII levels will positively alter the phenotype. While several vectors are under investigation, gene addition from an integrated transgene offers the possibility of long term expression. We engineered the DNA transposon-based vector, piggyBac (PB), to carry a codon-optimized B-domain deleted human FVIII cDNA. Evaluation of gene transfer efficiency in FVIII null mice demonstrated that PB containing the FVIII cDNA, delivered via hydrodynamic injection to immunocompetent hemophilia mice, conferred persistent gene expression, attaining mean FVIII activity of approximately 60% with 3/19 developing inhibitors. In addition to efficacious expression, a goal of gene transfer-based therapies is to develop vectors with low toxicity. To assess endoplasmic reticulum stress in hepatocytes stably expressing the transgene, we evaluated levels of ER stress markers via qPCR and found no evidence of cell stress. To evaluate phenotypic correction, a tail clip assay performed at the end of the study revealed reduced blood loss. These data demonstrate that PB can be used to achieve sustained FVIII expression and long-term therapeutic benefit in a mouse model.
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27
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Matsui H, Fujimoto N, Sasakawa N, Ohinata Y, Shima M, Yamanaka S, Sugimoto M, Hotta A. Delivery of full-length factor VIII using a piggyBac transposon vector to correct a mouse model of hemophilia A. PLoS One 2014; 9:e104957. [PMID: 25126862 PMCID: PMC4134236 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0104957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2014] [Accepted: 07/14/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Viral vectors have been used for hemophilia A gene therapy. However, due to its large size, full-length Factor VIII (FVIII) cDNA has not been successfully delivered using conventional viral vectors. Moreover, viral vectors may pose safety risks, e.g., adverse immunological reactions or virus-mediated cytotoxicity. Here, we took advantages of the non-viral vector gene delivery system based on piggyBac DNA transposon to transfer the full-length FVIII cDNA, for the purpose of treating hemophilia A. We tested the efficiency of this new vector system in human 293T cells and iPS cells, and confirmed the expression of the full-length FVIII in culture media using activity-sensitive coagulation assays. Hydrodynamic injection of the piggyBac vectors into hemophilia A mice temporally treated with an immunosuppressant resulted in stable production of circulating FVIII for over 300 days without development of anti-FVIII antibodies. Furthermore, tail-clip assay revealed significant improvement of blood coagulation time in the treated mice.piggyBac transposon vectors can facilitate the long-term expression of therapeutic transgenes in vitro and in vivo. This novel gene transfer strategy should provide safe and efficient delivery of FVIII.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hideto Matsui
- Department of Regulatory Medicine for Thrombosis, Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Nara, Japan
- * ; (HM)
| | - Naoko Fujimoto
- Department of Reprogramming Science, Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Kyoto University, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan
- iCeMS, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Noriko Sasakawa
- Department of Reprogramming Science, Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Kyoto University, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yasuhide Ohinata
- Life Science Experimental Facility, Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of life and Environmental Sciences, University of Yamanashi, 4-4-37 Takeda, Kofu, Yamanashi, Japan
- PRESTO, Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST), Saitama, Japan
| | - Midori Shima
- Pediatrcs, Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Nara, Japan
| | - Shinya Yamanaka
- Department of Reprogramming Science, Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Kyoto University, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan
- iCeMS, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
- Gladstone Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Mitsuhiko Sugimoto
- Department of Regulatory Medicine for Thrombosis, Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Nara, Japan
| | - Akitsu Hotta
- Department of Reprogramming Science, Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Kyoto University, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan
- iCeMS, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
- PRESTO, Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST), Saitama, Japan
- * ; (HM)
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Di Matteo M, Samara-Kuko E, Ward NJ, Waddington SN, Waddingon SN, McVey JH, Chuah MKL, VandenDriessche T. Hyperactive piggyBac transposons for sustained and robust liver-targeted gene therapy. Mol Ther 2014; 22:1614-24. [PMID: 25034357 PMCID: PMC4435487 DOI: 10.1038/mt.2014.131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2014] [Accepted: 06/27/2014] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The development of robust nonviral vectors could facilitate clinical gene therapy applications and may overcome some of the immune complications of viral vectors. Nevertheless, most nonviral gene deliver approaches typically yield only transient and/or low gene expression. To address these caveats, we have explored piggyBac transposons to correct hemophilia B by liver-directed factor IX (FIX) gene therapy in hemophilic mice. To achieve this, we combined the use of: (i) a hyperactive codon-optimized piggyBac transposase, (ii) a computationally enhanced liver-specific promoter, (iii) a hyperfunctional codon-optimized FIX transgene (FIX R338L Padua), and (iv) a modification of the transposon terminal repeats. This combination strategy resulted in a robust 400-fold improvement in vector performance in hepatocytes, yielding stable supraphysiologic human FIX activity (>1 year). Liver-specific expression resulted in the induction of FIX-specific immune tolerance. Remarkably, only very low transposon/transposase doses were required to cure the bleeding diathesis. Similarly, PB transposons could be used to express supraphysiologic factor VIII levels using low transposon/transposase doses. PB transposition did not induce tumors in a sensitive hepatocellular carcinoma-prone mouse model. These results underscore the potency and relative safety of the latest generation PB transposons, which constitutes a versatile platform for stable and robust secretion of therapeutic proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Di Matteo
- 1] Department of Gene Therapy and Regenerative Medicine, Free University of Brussels, Brussels, Belgium [2] Center for Molecular and Vascular Biology, Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Emira Samara-Kuko
- Department of Gene Therapy and Regenerative Medicine, Free University of Brussels, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Natalie J Ward
- Molecular Immunology Unit, Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Simon N Waddington
- 1] Institute for Women's Health Gene Transfer Technology Group, University College London, London, UK [2] School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa
| | | | - John H McVey
- University of Surrey, Molecular Medicine Group, Surrey, UK
| | - Marinee K L Chuah
- 1] Department of Gene Therapy and Regenerative Medicine, Free University of Brussels, Brussels, Belgium [2] Center for Molecular and Vascular Biology, Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Thierry VandenDriessche
- 1] Department of Gene Therapy and Regenerative Medicine, Free University of Brussels, Brussels, Belgium [2] Center for Molecular and Vascular Biology, Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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29
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Doering CB, Spencer HT. Advancements in gene transfer-based therapy for hemophilia A. Expert Rev Hematol 2014; 2:673-683. [PMID: 20577574 DOI: 10.1586/ehm.09.63] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Gene therapy has promised clinical benefit to those suffering with hemophilia A, but this benefit has not yet been realized. However, during the past two decades, basic and applied gene therapy research has progressed and the goal of gene therapy for hemophilia A is once again in our sights. The hemophilia A patient population suffers from a disease that requires invasive, lifelong management, is exorbitantly expensive to treat, has geographically limited treatment access and can become untreatable due to immune reactions to the treatment product. Subsequent to the cloning of the factor VIII gene and cDNA in the early 1980s, academic and commercial research laboratories began to pursue gene transfer-based therapies to supplement or supplant the available protein replacement therapy. However, to date, clinical trials for gene therapy of hemophilia A have been unsuccessful. Three trials have been conducted with each having tested a different gene-transfer strategy and each demonstrating that there is a considerable barrier to achieving sustained expression of therapeutic amounts of factor VIII. Recent progress has been made in gene-transfer technology and, relevant to hemophilia A, towards increasing the biosynthetic efficiency of factor VIII. These advances are now being combined to develop novel strategies to treat and possibly cure hemophilia A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher B Doering
- Aflac Cancer Center and Blood Disorders Service, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, GA 30322, USA, Tel.: +1 404 727 7988
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30
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Skipper KA, Andersen PR, Sharma N, Mikkelsen JG. DNA transposon-based gene vehicles - scenes from an evolutionary drive. J Biomed Sci 2013; 20:92. [PMID: 24320156 PMCID: PMC3878927 DOI: 10.1186/1423-0127-20-92] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2013] [Accepted: 11/27/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
DNA transposons are primitive genetic elements which have colonized living organisms from plants to bacteria and mammals. Through evolution such parasitic elements have shaped their host genomes by replicating and relocating between chromosomal loci in processes catalyzed by the transposase proteins encoded by the elements themselves. DNA transposable elements are constantly adapting to life in the genome, and self-suppressive regulation as well as defensive host mechanisms may assist in buffering ‘cut-and-paste’ DNA mobilization until accumulating mutations will eventually restrict events of transposition. With the reconstructed Sleeping Beauty DNA transposon as a powerful engine, a growing list of transposable elements with activity in human cells have moved into biomedical experimentation and preclinical therapy as versatile vehicles for delivery and genomic insertion of transgenes. In this review, we aim to link the mechanisms that drive transposon evolution with the realities and potential challenges we are facing when adapting DNA transposons for gene transfer. We argue that DNA transposon-derived vectors may carry inherent, and potentially limiting, traits of their mother elements. By understanding in detail the evolutionary journey of transposons, from host colonization to element multiplication and inactivation, we may better exploit the potential of distinct transposable elements. Hence, parallel efforts to investigate and develop distinct, but potent, transposon-based vector systems will benefit the broad applications of gene transfer. Insight and clever optimization have shaped new DNA transposon vectors, which recently debuted in the first DNA transposon-based clinical trial. Learning from an evolutionary drive may help us create gene vehicles that are safer, more efficient, and less prone for suppression and inactivation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Jacob Giehm Mikkelsen
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Wilh, Meyers Allé 4, DK-8000, Aarhus C, Denmark.
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31
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Fagoe ND, Eggers R, Verhaagen J, Mason MRJ. A compact dual promoter adeno-associated viral vector for efficient delivery of two genes to dorsal root ganglion neurons. Gene Ther 2013; 21:242-52. [PMID: 24285216 DOI: 10.1038/gt.2013.71] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2013] [Revised: 10/23/2013] [Accepted: 10/24/2013] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Adeno-associated viral (AAV) vectors based on serotype 5 are an efficient means to target dorsal root ganglia (DRG) to study gene function in the primary sensory neurons of the peripheral nervous system. In this study, we have developed a compact AAV dual promoter vector composed of the cytomegalovirus (CMV) and chicken beta-actin (CAG) promoters in a back-to-back configuration with a shared enhancer, and show efficient expression of two proteins simultaneously in DRG neurons. We demonstrate how this is useful for experiments on axonal regeneration, by co-expressing a gene of interest and an axonal marker. Using a farnesylated form of eGFP, which is actively transported along axons, we show superior long-distance labelling of axons of DRG neurons compared with normal eGFP. Additionally, we have efficiently transduced lumbar DRG neurons by injecting the AAV dual promoter vector into the dorsal intrathecal space, which is a less invasive delivery method. In summary, we have developed an AAV dual promoter vector designed for simultaneous expression of a gene of interest and a fluorescent protein to label long-distance axonal projections, which allows specific quantification of axons from transduced neurons after injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- N D Fagoe
- Laboratory for Neuroregeneration, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, an Institute of the Royal Academy of Arts and Sciences, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - R Eggers
- Laboratory for Neuroregeneration, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, an Institute of the Royal Academy of Arts and Sciences, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - J Verhaagen
- 1] Laboratory for Neuroregeneration, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, an Institute of the Royal Academy of Arts and Sciences, Amsterdam, The Netherlands [2] Center for Neurogenomics and Cognition Research, Neuroscience Campus Amsterdam, Vrije Universtiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - M R J Mason
- Laboratory for Neuroregeneration, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, an Institute of the Royal Academy of Arts and Sciences, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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32
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Chuah MK, Evens H, VandenDriessche T. Gene therapy for hemophilia. J Thromb Haemost 2013; 11 Suppl 1:99-110. [PMID: 23809114 DOI: 10.1111/jth.12215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2013] [Accepted: 03/13/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Hemophilia A and B are X-linked monogenic disorders resulting from deficiencies of factor VIII and FIX, respectively. Purified clotting factor concentrates are currently intravenously administered to treat hemophilia, but this treatment is non-curative. Therefore, gene-based therapies for hemophilia have been developed to achieve sustained high levels of clotting factor expression to correct the clinical phenotype. Over the past two decades, different types of viral and non-viral gene delivery systems have been explored for hemophilia gene therapy research with a variety of target cells, particularly hepatocytes, hematopoietic stem cells, skeletal muscle cells, and endothelial cells. Lentiviral and adeno-associated virus (AAV)-based vectors are among the most promising vectors for hemophilia gene therapy. In preclinical hemophilia A and B animal models, the bleeding phenotype was corrected with these vectors. Some of these promising preclinical results prompted clinical translation to patients suffering from a severe hemophilic phenotype. These patients receiving gene therapy with AAV vectors showed long-term expression of therapeutic FIX levels, which is a major step forwards in this field. Nevertheless, the levels were insufficient to prevent trauma or injury-induced bleeding episodes. Another challenge that remains is the possible immune destruction of gene-modified cells by effector T cells, which are directed against the AAV vector antigens. It is therefore important to continuously improve the current gene therapy approaches to ultimately establish a real cure for hemophilia.
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Affiliation(s)
- M K Chuah
- Department of Gene Therapy & Regenerative Medicine, Free University of Brussels (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
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33
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Hackett PB, Largaespada DA, Switzer KC, Cooper LJN. Evaluating risks of insertional mutagenesis by DNA transposons in gene therapy. Transl Res 2013; 161:265-83. [PMID: 23313630 PMCID: PMC3602164 DOI: 10.1016/j.trsl.2012.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2012] [Revised: 12/10/2012] [Accepted: 12/11/2012] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Investigational therapy can be successfully undertaken using viral- and nonviral-mediated ex vivo gene transfer. Indeed, recent clinical trials have established the potential for genetically modified T cells to improve and restore health. Recently, the Sleeping Beauty (SB) transposon/transposase system has been applied in clinical trials to stably insert a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) to redirect T-cell specificity. We discuss the context in which the SB system can be harnessed for gene therapy and describe the human application of SB-modified CAR(+) T cells. We have focused on theoretical issues relating to insertional mutagenesis in the context of human genomes that are naturally subjected to remobilization of transposons and the experimental evidence over the last decade of employing SB transposons for defining genes that induce cancer. These findings are put into the context of the use of SB transposons in the treatment of human disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Perry B Hackett
- Department of Genetics Cell Biology and Development, Center for Genome Engineering and Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.
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34
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Sharma N, Cai Y, Bak RO, Jakobsen MR, Schrøder LD, Mikkelsen JG. Efficient sleeping beauty DNA transposition from DNA minicircles. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2013; 2:e74. [PMID: 23443502 PMCID: PMC3586802 DOI: 10.1038/mtna.2013.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
DNA transposon-based vectors have emerged as new potential delivery tools in therapeutic gene transfer. Such vectors are now showing promise in hematopoietic stem cells and primary human T cells, and clinical trials with transposon-engineered cells are on the way. However, the use of plasmid DNA as a carrier of the vector raises safety concerns due to the undesirable administration of bacterial sequences. To optimize vectors based on the Sleeping Beauty (SB) DNA transposon for clinical use, we examine here SB transposition from DNA minicircles (MCs) devoid of the bacterial plasmid backbone. Potent DNA transposition, directed by the hyperactive SB100X transposase, is demonstrated from MC donors, and the stable transfection rate is significantly enhanced by expressing the SB100X transposase from MCs. The stable transfection rate is inversely related to the size of circular donor, suggesting that a MC-based SB transposition system benefits primarily from an increased cellular uptake and/or enhanced expression which can be observed with DNA MCs. DNA transposon and transposase MCs are easily produced, are favorable in size, do not carry irrelevant DNA, and are robust substrates for DNA transposition. In accordance, DNA MCs should become a standard source of DNA transposons not only in therapeutic settings but also in the daily use of the SB system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nynne Sharma
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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35
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36
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Chuah MK, Nair N, VandenDriessche T. Recent progress in gene therapy for hemophilia. Hum Gene Ther 2012; 23:557-65. [PMID: 22671033 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2012.088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hemophilia A and B are X-linked monogenic disorders caused by deficiencies in coagulation factor VIII (FVIII) and factor IX (FIX), respectively. Current treatment for hemophilia involves intravenous infusion of clotting factor concentrates. However, this does not constitute a cure, and the development of gene-based therapies for hemophilia to achieve prolonged high level expression of clotting factors to correct the bleeding diathesis are warranted. Different types of viral and nonviral gene delivery systems and a wide range of different target cells, including hepatocytes, skeletal muscle cells, hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), and endothelial cells, have been explored for hemophilia gene therapy. Adeno-associated virus (AAV)-based and lentiviral vectors are among the most promising vectors for hemophilia gene therapy. Stable correction of the bleeding phenotypes in hemophilia A and B was achieved in murine and canine models, and these promising preclinical studies prompted clinical trials in patients suffering from severe hemophilia. These studies recently resulted in the first demonstration that long-term expression of therapeutic FIX levels could be achieved in patients undergoing gene therapy. Despite this progress, there are still a number of hurdles that need to be overcome. In particular, the FIX levels obtained were insufficient to prevent bleeding induced by trauma or injury. Moreover, the gene-modified cells in these patients can become potential targets for immune destruction by effector T cells, specific for the AAV vector antigens. Consequently, more efficacious approaches are needed to achieve full hemostatic correction and to ultimately establish a cure for hemophilia A and B.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marinee K Chuah
- Department of Gene Therapy & Regenerative Medicine, Free University of Brussels, B-1090 Brussels, Belgium
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37
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Di Matteo M, Belay E, Chuah MK, Vandendriessche T. Recent developments in transposon-mediated gene therapy. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2012; 12:841-58. [PMID: 22679910 DOI: 10.1517/14712598.2012.684875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The continuous improvement of gene transfer technologies has broad implications for stem cell biology, gene discovery, and gene therapy. Although viral vectors are efficient gene delivery vehicles, their safety, immunogenicity and manufacturing challenges hamper clinical progress. In contrast, non-viral gene delivery systems are less immunogenic and easier to manufacture. AREAS COVERED In this review, we explore the emerging potential of transposons in gene and cell therapy. The safety, efficiency, and biology of novel hyperactive Sleeping Beauty (SB) and piggyBac (PB) transposon systems will be highlighted for ex vivo gene therapy in clinically relevant adult stem/progenitor cells, particularly hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), myoblasts, and induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells. Moreover, efforts toward in vivo transposon-based gene therapy will be discussed. EXPERT OPINION The latest generation SB and PB transposons currently represent some of the most attractive systems for stable non-viral genetic modification of primary cells, particularly adult stem cells. This paves the way toward the use of transposons as a non-viral gene therapy approach to correct hereditary disorders including those that affect the hematopoietic system. The development of targeted integration into "safe harbor" genetic loci may further improve their safety profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Di Matteo
- Free University of Brussels, Division of Gene Therapy & Regenerative Medicine, Laarbeeklaan 103, B-1090 Brussels, Belgium
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38
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Ammar I, Gogol-Döring A, Miskey C, Chen W, Cathomen T, Izsvák Z, Ivics Z. Retargeting transposon insertions by the adeno-associated virus Rep protein. Nucleic Acids Res 2012; 40:6693-712. [PMID: 22523082 PMCID: PMC3413126 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gks317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The Sleeping Beauty (SB), piggyBac (PB) and Tol2 transposons are promising instruments for genome engineering. Integration site profiling of SB, PB and Tol2 in human cells showed that PB and Tol2 insertions were enriched in genes, whereas SB insertions were randomly distributed. We aimed to introduce a bias into the target site selection properties of the transposon systems by taking advantage of the locus-specific integration system of adeno-associated virus (AAV). The AAV Rep protein binds to Rep recognition sequences (RRSs) in the human genome, and mediates viral integration into nearby sites. A series of fusion constructs consisting of the N-terminal DNA-binding domain of Rep and the transposases or the N57 domain of SB were generated. A plasmid-based transposition assay showed that Rep/SB yielded a 15-fold enrichment of transposition at a particular site near a targeted RRS. Genome-wide insertion site analysis indicated that an approach based on interactions between the SB transposase and Rep/N57 enriched transgene insertions at RRSs. We also provide evidence of biased insertion of the PB and Tol2 transposons. This study provides a comparative insight into target site selection properties of transposons, as well as proof-of-principle for targeted chromosomal transposition by composite protein–protein and protein–DNA interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ismahen Ammar
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, 13125 Berlin, Germany
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39
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Ivics Z, Izsvák Z. Nonviral gene delivery with the sleeping beauty transposon system. Hum Gene Ther 2012; 22:1043-51. [PMID: 21867398 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2011.143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Effective gene therapy requires robust delivery of therapeutic genes into relevant target cells, long-term gene expression, and minimal risks of secondary effects. Nonviral gene transfer approaches typically result in only short-lived transgene expression in primary cells, because of the lack of nuclear maintenance of the vector over several rounds of cell division. The development of efficient and safe nonviral vectors armed with an integrating feature would thus greatly facilitate clinical gene therapy studies. The latest generation transposon technology based on the Sleeping Beauty (SB) transposon may potentially overcome some of these limitations. SB was shown to provide efficient stable gene transfer and sustained transgene expression in primary cell types, including human hematopoietic progenitors, mesenchymal stem cells, muscle stem/progenitor cells (myoblasts), induced pluripotent stem cells, and T cells. These cells are relevant targets for stem cell biology, regenerative medicine, and gene- and cell-based therapies of complex genetic diseases. Moreover, the first-in-human clinical trial has been launched to use redirected T cells engineered with SB for gene therapy of B cell lymphoma. We discuss aspects of cellular delivery of the SB transposon system, transgene expression provided by integrated transposon vectors, target site selection of the transposon vectors, and potential risks associated with random genomic insertion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoltán Ivics
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin 13125, Germany.
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40
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Sabatino DE, Nichols TC, Merricks E, Bellinger DA, Herzog RW, Monahan PE. Animal models of hemophilia. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2012; 105:151-209. [PMID: 22137432 PMCID: PMC3713797 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-394596-9.00006-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The X-linked bleeding disorder hemophilia is caused by mutations in coagulation factor VIII (hemophilia A) or factor IX (hemophilia B). Unless prophylactic treatment is provided, patients with severe disease (less than 1% clotting activity) typically experience frequent spontaneous bleeds. Current treatment is largely based on intravenous infusion of recombinant or plasma-derived coagulation factor concentrate. More effective factor products are being developed. Moreover, gene therapies for sustained correction of hemophilia are showing much promise in preclinical studies and in clinical trials. These advances in molecular medicine heavily depend on availability of well-characterized small and large animal models of hemophilia, primarily hemophilia mice and dogs. Experiments in these animals represent important early and intermediate steps of translational research aimed at development of better and safer treatments for hemophilia, such a protein and gene therapies or immune tolerance protocols. While murine models are excellent for studies of large groups of animals using genetically defined strains, canine models are important for testing scale-up and for long-term follow-up as well as for studies that require larger blood volumes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denise E. Sabatino
- Division of Hematology, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104
| | - Timothy C. Nichols
- Francis Owen Blood Research Laboratory, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27516
| | - Elizabeth Merricks
- Francis Owen Blood Research Laboratory, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27516
| | - Dwight A. Bellinger
- Francis Owen Blood Research Laboratory, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27516
| | - Roland W. Herzog
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32610
| | - Paul E. Monahan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27516
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41
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Abstract
The mobility of class II transposable elements (DNA transposons) can be experimentally controlled by separating the two functional components of the transposon: the terminal inverted repeat sequences that flank a gene of interest to be mobilized and the transposase protein that can be conditionally supplied to drive the transposition reaction. Thus, a DNA molecule of interest (e.g., a fluorescent marker, an shRNA expression cassette, a mutagenic gene trap or a therapeutic gene construct) cloned between the inverted repeat sequences of a transposon-based vector can be stably integrated into the genome in a regulated and highly efficient manner. Sleeping Beauty (SB) was the first transposon ever shown capable of gene transfer in vertebrate cells, and recent results confirm that SB supports a full spectrum of genetic engineering in vertebrate species, including transgenesis, insertional mutagenesis, and therapeutic somatic gene, transfer both ex vivo and in vivo. This methodological paradigm opened up a number of avenues for genome manipulations for basic and applied research. This review highlights the state-of-the-art in SB transposon technology in diverse genetic applications with special emphasis on the transposon as well as transposase vectors currently available in the SB transposon toolbox.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ismahen Ammar
- Max Delbruck Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany
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42
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Zakas PM, Spencer HT, Doering CB. Engineered Hematopoietic Stem Cells as Therapeutics for Hemophilia A. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; 1. [PMID: 25383239 DOI: 10.4172/2157-7412.s1-003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Philip M Zakas
- Graduate Program in Molecular and Systems Pharmacology, Graduate Division of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Emory University
| | - H Trent Spencer
- Aflac Cancer Center and Blood Disorders Service, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Christopher B Doering
- Aflac Cancer Center and Blood Disorders Service, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
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43
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Restoration of dystrophin expression using the Sleeping Beauty transposon. PLOS CURRENTS 2011; 3:RRN1296. [PMID: 22318674 PMCID: PMC3269885 DOI: 10.1371/currents.rrn1296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/29/2011] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The Sleeping beauty (SB) system is a non-viral DNA based vector that has been used to stably integrate therapeutic genes into disease models. Here we report the SB system is capable of stably integrating the ΔR4-R23/CTΔ micro-dystrophin gene into a conditionally immortal dystrophin deficient muscle cell-line, H2K SF1, a murine cell model for Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Genetically corrected H2K SF1 cells retained their myogenic properties in vitro. Moreover, upon transplantation ΔR4-R23/CTΔ micro-dystrophin expression was detected within mdx nu/nu mice. Our data suggests the SB system is an effective way of stably integrating therapeutic genes into myogenic cells.
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44
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Swierczek M, Izsvák Z, Ivics Z. The Sleeping Beauty transposon system for clinical applications. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2011; 12:139-53. [PMID: 22176302 DOI: 10.1517/14712598.2012.642358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Extensive efforts have been made to establish efficient and safe gene delivery protocols that could meet demanding expectations of a successful gene therapy. The Sleeping Beauty (SB) transposon system combines simplicity and inexpensive manufacture offered by plasmid-based vector formulation with integrative features exhibited by some viral vectors. Activated after over ten million years of silent genomic existence, the SB transposable element entered the 21st century as a potent technology for a broad range of applications in genome engineering, including gene therapy. Beneficially for gene therapy purposes, the SB system has been demonstrated to enable persistent expression of therapeutic genes followed by restoration of homeostasis in a variety of disease models. Importantly, this non-viral gene delivery vehicle is postulated to constitute a relatively safe vector system, because it lacks a preference for inserting into transcription units and their upstream regulatory regions, thereby minimizing genotoxic risks that might be associated with vector integration. Further evolution and wide, comprehensive preclinical testing of the SB transposon system in the context of several disease models is expected to further refine this valuable technology matched by enhanced biosafety towards disease treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Swierczek
- Paul Ehrlich Institute, Paul Ehrlich Strasse 51-59, D-63225 Langen, Germany
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Wilber A, Ulloa Montoya F, Hammer L, Moriarity BS, Geurts AM, Largaespada DA, Verfaillie CM, McIvor RS, Lakshmipathy U. Efficient non-viral integration and stable gene expression in multipotent adult progenitor cells. Stem Cells Int 2011; 2011:717069. [PMID: 21977042 PMCID: PMC3184415 DOI: 10.4061/2011/717069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2011] [Revised: 06/01/2011] [Accepted: 06/15/2011] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-viral integrating systems, PhiC31 phage integrase (ϕC31), and Sleeping Beauty transposase (SB), provide an effective method for ex vivo gene delivery into cells. Here, we used a plasmid-encoding GFP and neomycin phosphotransferase along with recognition sequences for both ϕC31 and SB integrating systems to demonstrate that both systems effectively mediated integration in cultured human fibroblasts and in rat multipotent adult progenitor cells (rMAPC). Southern blot analysis of G418-resistant rMAPC clones showed a 2-fold higher number of SB-mediated insertions per clone compared to ϕC31. Sequence identification of chromosomal junction sites indicated a random profile for SB-mediated integrants and a more restricted profile for ϕC31 integrants. Transgenic rMAPC generated with both systems maintained their ability to differentiate into liver and endothelium albeit with marked attenuation of GFP expression. We conclude that both SB and ϕC31 are effective non-viral integrating systems for genetic engineering of MAPC in basic studies of stem cell biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Wilber
- Center for Genome Engineering, Gene Therapy Program, Institute of Human Genetics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
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Hackett PB, Aronovich EL, Hunter D, Urness M, Bell JB, Kass SJ, Cooper LJN, McIvor S. Efficacy and safety of Sleeping Beauty transposon-mediated gene transfer in preclinical animal studies. Curr Gene Ther 2011; 11:341-9. [PMID: 21888621 PMCID: PMC3728161 DOI: 10.2174/156652311797415827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2011] [Revised: 06/25/2011] [Accepted: 06/28/2011] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Sleeping Beauty (SB) transposons have been effective in delivering therapeutic genes to treat certain diseases in mice. Hydrodynamic gene delivery of integrating transposons to 5-20% of the hepatocytes in a mouse results in persistent elevated expression of the therapeutic polypeptides that can be secreted into the blood for activity throughout the animal. An alternative route of delivery is ex vivo transformation with SB transposons of hematopoietic cells, which then can be reintroduced into the animal for treatment of cancer. We discuss issues associated with the scale-up of hydrodynamic delivery to the liver of larger animals as well as ex vivo delivery. Based on our and others' experience with inefficient delivery to larger animals, we hypothesize that impulse, rather than pressure, is a critical determinant of the effectiveness of hydrodynamic delivery. Accordingly, we propose some alterations in delivery strategies that may yield efficacious levels of gene delivery in dogs and swine that will be applicable to humans. To ready hydrodynamic delivery for human application we address a second issue facing transposons used for gene delivery regarding their potential to "re-hop" from one site to another and thereby destabilize the genome. The ability to correct genetic diseases through the infusion of DNA plasmids remains an appealing goal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Perry B Hackett
- Dept. of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development, 321 Church St. SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.
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[Applications of DNA transposons to the study of gene function in mice]. YI CHUAN = HEREDITAS 2011; 33:485-93. [PMID: 21586395 DOI: 10.3724/sp.j.1005.2011.00485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
In the past decade, transposon-mediated insertional mutagenesis has been widely used in mammalian molecular genetics. As a convenient and efficient tool for genetic manipulation, transposon has played an important role in making transgenic animal models, performing gene therapy, and annotating gene function at the cellular level and by animal studies in vivo. This review focuses on the structure, function and latest research progress of DNA transposons applied in mouse genetics.
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Aronovich EL, McIvor RS, Hackett PB. The Sleeping Beauty transposon system: a non-viral vector for gene therapy. Hum Mol Genet 2011; 20:R14-20. [PMID: 21459777 PMCID: PMC3095056 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddr140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2011] [Accepted: 03/28/2011] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the past decade, the Sleeping Beauty (SB) transposon system has been developed as the leading non-viral vector for gene therapy. This vector combines the advantages of viruses and naked DNA. Here we review progress over the last 2 years in vector design, methods of delivery and safety that have supported its use in the clinic. Currently, the SB vector has been validated for ex vivo gene delivery to stem cells, including T-cells for the treatment of lymphoma. Progress in delivery of SB transposons to liver for treatment of various systemic diseases, such as hemophilia and mucopolysaccharidoses types I and VII, has encountered some problems, but even here progress is being made.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena L Aronovich
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development, The Center for Genome Engineering, Institute of Human Genetics, University of Minnesota, 6-160 Jackson Hall, 321 Church St. SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.
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Wolf DA, Lenander AW, Nan Z, Belur LR, Whitley CB, Gupta P, Low WC, McIvor RS. Direct gene transfer to the CNS prevents emergence of neurologic disease in a murine model of mucopolysaccharidosis type I. Neurobiol Dis 2011; 43:123-33. [PMID: 21397026 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2011.02.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2010] [Revised: 02/23/2011] [Accepted: 02/27/2011] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The mucopolysaccharidoses (MPSs) are a group of 11 storage diseases caused by disruptions in glycosaminoglycan (GAG) catabolism, leading to their accumulation in lysosomes. Resultant multisystemic disease is manifested by growth delay, hepatosplenomegaly, skeletal dysplasias, cardiopulmonary obstruction, and, in severe MPS I, II, III, and VII, progressive neurocognitive decline. Some MPSs are treated by allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) and/or recombinant enzyme replacement therapy (ERT), but effectiveness is limited by central nervous system (CNS) access across the blood-brain barrier. To provide a high level of gene product to the CNS, we tested neonatal intracerebroventricular (ICV) infusion of an adeno-associated virus (AAV) serotype 8 vector transducing the human α-L-iduronidase gene in MPS I mice. Supranormal levels of iduronidase activity in the brain (including 40× normal levels in the hippocampus) were associated with transduction of neurons in motor and limbic areas identifiable by immunofluorescence staining. The treatment prevented accumulation of GAG and GM3 ganglioside storage materials and emergence of neurocognitive dysfunction in a modified Morris water maze test. The results suggest the potential of improved outcome for MPSs and other neurological diseases when a high level of gene expression can be achieved by direct, early administration of vector to the CNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel A Wolf
- Department of Genetics, Institute of Human Genetics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
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Xie SY, Li W, Ren ZR, Huang SZ, Zeng F, Zeng YT. Correction of β654-thalassaemia mice using direct intravenous injection of siRNA and antisense RNA vectors. Int J Hematol 2011; 93:301-310. [PMID: 21369857 DOI: 10.1007/s12185-010-0727-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2010] [Revised: 10/27/2010] [Accepted: 11/10/2010] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Although the therapeutic efficacy of β(654)-thalassaemia treatment using a combination of RNAi and antisense RNA to balance the synthesis of α- and β-globin chains has been demonstrated previously, and the safety of lentiviral delivery remains unclear. Herein, we used the same β(654)-thalassaemia mouse model to develop a therapy involving direct delivery of siRNA and antisense RNA plasmids via intravenous injection to simultaneously knock down α-globin transcript levels and restore correct β-globin splicing. The amount of α-globin mRNAs in siRNA-treated MEL cells decreased significantly, and the properly spliced β-globin mRNA was restored in HeLaβ(654) cells transfected with pcDNA-antisense plasmid. Furthermore, treatment of β(654)-thalassaemic mice with siRNA and antisense RNA plasmids resulted in significant reduction of poikilocytosis and reticulocyte counts in blood samples, decreased nucleated cell populations in bone marrow, and reduced intrasinusoidal extramedullary haematopoiesis loci and iron accumulation in liver. RT-PCR analysis revealed that treatment resulted in down-regulation of α-globin mRNA synthesis by ~50% along with an increase in the presence of normally spliced β-globin transcripts, indicating that the phenotypic changes observed in β(654)-thalassaemic mice following treatment resulted from restoration of the balance of α/β-globin biosynthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu-Yang Xie
- Shanghai Institute of Medical Genetics, Shanghai Children's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 24/1400 West Beijing Road, Shanghai, 200040, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Li
- Shanghai Institute of Medical Genetics, Shanghai Children's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 24/1400 West Beijing Road, Shanghai, 200040, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhao-Rui Ren
- Shanghai Institute of Medical Genetics, Shanghai Children's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 24/1400 West Beijing Road, Shanghai, 200040, People's Republic of China
- Key Lab of Medical Embryo Molecular Biology, Ministry of Health, China, Shanghai Lab of Embryo and Reproduction Engineering, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Shu-Zhen Huang
- Shanghai Institute of Medical Genetics, Shanghai Children's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 24/1400 West Beijing Road, Shanghai, 200040, People's Republic of China
- Key Lab of Medical Embryo Molecular Biology, Ministry of Health, China, Shanghai Lab of Embryo and Reproduction Engineering, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Fanyi Zeng
- Shanghai Institute of Medical Genetics, Shanghai Children's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 24/1400 West Beijing Road, Shanghai, 200040, People's Republic of China.
- Key Lab of Medical Embryo Molecular Biology, Ministry of Health, China, Shanghai Lab of Embryo and Reproduction Engineering, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
- Institute of Medical Science, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yi-Tao Zeng
- Shanghai Institute of Medical Genetics, Shanghai Children's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 24/1400 West Beijing Road, Shanghai, 200040, People's Republic of China.
- Key Lab of Medical Embryo Molecular Biology, Ministry of Health, China, Shanghai Lab of Embryo and Reproduction Engineering, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
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