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Dougherty JA, Dougherty KM. Valoctocogene Roxaparvovec and Etranacogene Dezaparavovec: Novel Gene Therapies for Hemophilia A and B. Ann Pharmacother 2024; 58:834-848. [PMID: 37978816 DOI: 10.1177/10600280231202247] [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: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To review efficacy and safety data of valoctocogene roxaparvovec (Roctavian) and etranacogene dezaparavovec (Hemgenix), novel gene therapies for the treatment of the life-threatening bleeding disorders hemophilia A and B, respectively. DATA SOURCES A PubMed/Google Scholar search from inception through August 11, 2023 was conducted using the following keywords: gene therapy, hemophilia A, hemophilia B, etranacogene dezaparavovec, valoctocogene roxaparvovec, and bleeding. STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION Data, including phase 1 to 3 clinical trials (non-comparator), were obtained from primary literature and package inserts. These reports evaluated clinical pharmacology, efficacy, safety, adverse events, warnings, and precautions. DATA SYNTHESIS Valoctocogene phase 3 study in males (n = 134): 87% had factor VIII (FVIII) levels that at least met criteria for mild hemophilia. Etranacogene phase 3 study in males (n = 54): within 3 weeks of infusion, mean factor IX (FIX) levels had reached 26.8 IU/dL. Both therapies provided clinically and statistically significant decreases in bleeding events and prophylactic factor infusions. Most common adverse event was elevations in liver function tests that were treated with glucocorticoids. RELEVANCE TO PATIENT CARE AND CLINICAL PRACTICE IN COMPARISON WITH EXISTING DRUGS The endogenous production of clotting factors mimics physiological production while decreasing morbidity and mortality related to bleeding events similar to the effects of existing replacement strategies. Gene therapy was also shown to increase patient quality of life. CONCLUSION Valoctocogene and etranacogene provide another treatment for selected patients with hemophilia. Treatment for the patient with hemophilia (gene therapy vs replacement strategy) must be personalized as new clinical data are published being cognizant of drug affordability.
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Affiliation(s)
- John A Dougherty
- Lloyd L. Gregory School of Pharmacy, Palm Beach Atlantic University, West Palm Beach, FL, USA
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Sarker J, Tice JA, Rind DM, Pearson SD, Walton SM. The impact of capping health system cost savings on the projected cost-effectiveness of etranacogene dezaparvovec compared with factor IX prophylaxis for the treatment of hemophilia B. J Manag Care Spec Pharm 2024; 30:868-872. [PMID: 39088338 PMCID: PMC11293759 DOI: 10.18553/jmcp.2024.30.8.868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/03/2024]
Abstract
This viewpoint discusses cost-effectiveness estimates for EtranaDez, a gene therapy for hemophilia B, using the Institute for Clinical and Economic Review's (ICER) framework for single and short-term therapies (SSTs). EtranaDez offers long-term benefits from a single administration, in contrast to the high costs and frequent dosing required by current factor IX prophylaxis. However, the projected gains in health from EtranaDez are small relative to the cost implications of the therapy, and consequently, how the cost offsets associated with EtranaDez are counted has a substantial impact on assessing its cost-effectiveness. Strategies for assessing cost offsets used in the ICER SST framework include a 50/50 cost-sharing model between the health care system and the manufacturer and a cap of $150,000 annually on health care cost offsets. Results from the standard full cost-offset analysis as reported by ICER depicted EtranaDez as a dominant therapy with substantial cost savings compared with factor IX prophylaxis. However, while considering the ICER SST framework, particularly the $150,000 annual cap scenario, the cost-effectiveness was significantly reduced. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio varied notably between these scenarios, challenging the conventional perception of value of gene therapy in health care. These cost-sharing scenarios highlight the potential of the ICER SST framework to help curtail inefficient health care spending. In cases in which the cost of existing treatment is exceedingly high, the application of such frameworks would improve efficiency in resource allocation, fostering a balance between incentives for innovation and economic sustainability in managed care systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jyotirmoy Sarker
- Department of Pharmacy Systems, Outcomes, and Policy, University of Illinois Chicago College of Pharmacy
| | - Jeffrey A. Tice
- Division of General Internal Medicine, University of California San Francisco
| | - David M. Rind
- Institute for Clinical and Economic Review, Boston, MA
| | | | - Surrey M. Walton
- Department of Pharmacy Systems, Outcomes, and Policy, University of Illinois Chicago College of Pharmacy
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Badulescu OV, Scripcariu DV, Badescu MC, Ciocoiu M, Vladeanu MC, Plesoianu CE, Bojan A, Iliescu-Halitchi D, Tudor R, Huzum B, Bararu Bojan I. Debates Surrounding the Use of Antithrombotic Therapy in Hemophilic Patients with Cardiovascular Disease: Best Strategies to Minimize Severe Bleeding Risk. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:7845. [PMID: 39063087 PMCID: PMC11277257 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25147845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2024] [Revised: 07/10/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Navigating through antithrombotic therapy in patients with both hemophilia and cardiovascular pathology presents a complex scenario with inherent challenges and opportunities. The presence of hemophilia, characterized by impaired blood clotting, adds a layer of complexity to the management of cardiovascular conditions requiring antiplatelet therapy and anticoagulation. Striking a delicate balance between the necessity for antithrombotic treatment to prevent cardiovascular events and the heightened risk of severe bleeding in individuals with hemophilia demands a nuanced and carefully considered approach. The challenges revolve around identifying an optimal therapeutic strategy that effectively mitigates cardiovascular risks without exacerbating bleeding tendencies. In hemophilic patients with cardiovascular disease, the decision to use antiplatelet therapy requires careful consideration of the individual's bleeding risk profile, considering factors such as the severity of hemophilia, history of bleeding episodes, and concurrent medications. The goal is to provide effective antithrombotic treatment while minimizing the potential for excessive bleeding complications. Conventional anticoagulants like warfarin pose difficulties due to their potential to increase the risk of bleeding. On the other hand, emerging options like novel direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) present an opportunity, offering predictable pharmacokinetics and user-friendly administration. However, a comprehensive exploration of their safety and efficacy in hemophilic patients is imperative. Achieving the right equilibrium between preventing cardiovascular events and minimizing bleeding risk is pivotal in selecting the most effective therapeutic option for individuals with hemophilia and cardiovascular pathology. A multidisciplinary approach, integrating the expertise of hematologists and cardiologists, becomes essential to customize treatments and address the intricacies of this medical challenge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oana-Viola Badulescu
- Department of Pathophysiology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy Grigore T. Popa, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (O.-V.B.)
| | - Dragos Viorel Scripcariu
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Medicine and Pharmacy Grigore T. Popa, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Minerva Codruta Badescu
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy Grigore T. Popa, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Manuela Ciocoiu
- Department of Pathophysiology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy Grigore T. Popa, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (O.-V.B.)
| | - Maria Cristina Vladeanu
- Department of Pathophysiology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy Grigore T. Popa, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (O.-V.B.)
| | - Carmen Elena Plesoianu
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy Grigore T. Popa, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Andrei Bojan
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Medicine and Pharmacy Grigore T. Popa, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Dan Iliescu-Halitchi
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy Grigore T. Popa, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Razvan Tudor
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Medicine and Pharmacy Grigore T. Popa, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Bogdan Huzum
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Medicine and Pharmacy Grigore T. Popa, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Iris Bararu Bojan
- Department of Pathophysiology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy Grigore T. Popa, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (O.-V.B.)
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4
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Oldenburg J, Chambost H, Liu H, Hawes C, You X, Yang X, Newman V, Robinson TM, Hatswell AJ, Hinds D, Santos S, Ozelo M. Comparative Effectiveness of Valoctocogene Roxaparvovec and Prophylactic Factor VIII Replacement in Severe Hemophilia A. Adv Ther 2024; 41:2267-2281. [PMID: 38616241 PMCID: PMC11133144 DOI: 10.1007/s12325-024-02834-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION A prospective, non-interventional study (270-902) followed 294 adults with severe hemophilia A (SHA) receiving prophylactic factor VIII (FVIII). From these participants, 112 rolled over into a single-arm, multicenter, phase 3 trial (GENEr8-1; NCT03370913) that evaluated efficacy and safety of valoctocogene roxaparvovec, a gene therapy that provides endogenous FVIII in individuals with SHA. Participants from 270-902 who did not roll over provide an opportunity for a contemporaneous external control. Therefore, the comparative effectiveness of valoctocogene roxaparvovec vs FVIII prophylaxis was evaluated using propensity scoring (PS). METHODS This post hoc analysis compared 112 participants from GENEr8-1 (treated cohort) to 73 participants in 270-902 who did not enroll in GENEr8-1 (control cohort). The primary analysis used standardized mortality ratio weighting to re-weight baseline characteristics of the control cohort to better match the treated cohort. Mean annualized bleeding rates (ABR) for treated and all bleeds were compared between cohorts along with the proportion of participants with zero bleeds (treated and all bleeds). Sensitivity and scenario analyses were also conducted. RESULTS PS adjustments reduced differences in baseline characteristics between cohorts. Mean treated (4.40 vs 0.85; P < 0.001) and all (5.01 vs 1.54; P < 0.001) ABR were significantly lower, and the proportions of participants with zero treated bleeds (82.1% vs 32.9%; P < 0.001) and all bleeds (58.0% vs 28.5%; P < 0.001) were significantly higher in GENEr8-1. CONCLUSIONS PS-adjusted analyses were consistent with prior intra-individual comparisons. Compared with participants receiving prophylactic FVIII, the participants receiving valoctocogene roxaparvovec experienced lower ABR, and a higher proportion had zero bleeds. TRAIL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov identifier, NCT03370913.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Oldenburg
- Institute of Experimental Haematology and Transfusion Medicine and Center for Rare Diseases, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany.
| | - Herve Chambost
- Department of Pediatric Hematology Oncology, AP-HM, Children Hospital La Timone & Aix Marseille University, INSERM, INRA, C2VN, Marseille, France
| | - Hai Liu
- BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc., Novato, CA, USA
| | | | - Xiaojun You
- BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc., Novato, CA, USA
| | - Xinqun Yang
- BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc., Novato, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Anthony J Hatswell
- DeltaHat Limited, Nottingham, UK
- Department of Statistical Science, University College London, London, UK
| | - David Hinds
- BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc., Novato, CA, USA
| | | | - Margareth Ozelo
- Hemocentro UNICAMP, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas, SP, Brazil
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Livnat T, Dardik R. Special Issue "Genetic, Functional and Therapeutic Aspects of Procoagulant and Anticoagulant Factors". Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5741. [PMID: 38891929 PMCID: PMC11172113 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25115741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Pro- and anticoagulant factors are core components of hemostasis [...].
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Affiliation(s)
- Tami Livnat
- The Amalia Biron Research Institute of Thrombosis and Hemostasis, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Tel-Aviv University and the National Hemophilia Center Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer 52621, Israel
| | - Rima Dardik
- The Amalia Biron Research Institute of Thrombosis and Hemostasis, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Tel-Aviv University and the National Hemophilia Center Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer 52621, Israel
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Evangelidis N, Kotsiou N, Evangelidis P, Alevizopoulos VI, Dermitzakis I, Chissan S, Vakalopoulou S, Gavriilaki E. Genetics and Epigenetics in Acquired Hemophilia A: From Bench to Bedside. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2024; 46:5147-5160. [PMID: 38920981 PMCID: PMC11201880 DOI: 10.3390/cimb46060309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2024] [Revised: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Acquired hemophilia A (AHA) is a bleeding disorder characterized by the immunological inhibition of factor VIII (FVIII) of the hemostatic pathway leading to hemorrhagic events. Different domains of FVIII are the target of autoantibodies (mainly immunoglobulin (Ig) G) leading to the deficiency of FVIII. Several factors have been associated with the activation of the auto-immunity towards FVIII. Emerging evidence implicates CD4+ T cell activation in mediating this autoimmune response, with their involvement like that observed in congenital hemophilia A. Several genes such as HLA II DRB*16, DQB1*0502, and CTLA-4 + 49 are responsible for the pathogenesis of AHA. Epigenetic modifications and mainly long-coding RNAS (lncRNAs) are potentially contributing to the pathogenesis of AHA. The treatment approach of AHA includes the management of acute bleeding events and the administration of immunosuppressive medications. This review aimed to summarize the published data on the genetics and epigenetics of AHA. The severity and the mortality of this disease are creating an emerging need for further research in the field of the genetics and epigenetics of acquired hemorrhagic disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaos Evangelidis
- Hematology Unit-Hemophilia Centre, 2nd Propedeutic Department of Internal Medicine, Hippocration Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54642 Thessaloniki, Greece; (N.E.); (N.K.); (P.E.); (V.I.A.); (S.C.); (S.V.)
| | - Nikolaos Kotsiou
- Hematology Unit-Hemophilia Centre, 2nd Propedeutic Department of Internal Medicine, Hippocration Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54642 Thessaloniki, Greece; (N.E.); (N.K.); (P.E.); (V.I.A.); (S.C.); (S.V.)
| | - Paschalis Evangelidis
- Hematology Unit-Hemophilia Centre, 2nd Propedeutic Department of Internal Medicine, Hippocration Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54642 Thessaloniki, Greece; (N.E.); (N.K.); (P.E.); (V.I.A.); (S.C.); (S.V.)
| | - Vlasios I. Alevizopoulos
- Hematology Unit-Hemophilia Centre, 2nd Propedeutic Department of Internal Medicine, Hippocration Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54642 Thessaloniki, Greece; (N.E.); (N.K.); (P.E.); (V.I.A.); (S.C.); (S.V.)
| | - Iasonas Dermitzakis
- Medical School, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Sofia Chissan
- Hematology Unit-Hemophilia Centre, 2nd Propedeutic Department of Internal Medicine, Hippocration Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54642 Thessaloniki, Greece; (N.E.); (N.K.); (P.E.); (V.I.A.); (S.C.); (S.V.)
| | - Sofia Vakalopoulou
- Hematology Unit-Hemophilia Centre, 2nd Propedeutic Department of Internal Medicine, Hippocration Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54642 Thessaloniki, Greece; (N.E.); (N.K.); (P.E.); (V.I.A.); (S.C.); (S.V.)
| | - Eleni Gavriilaki
- Hematology Unit-Hemophilia Centre, 2nd Propedeutic Department of Internal Medicine, Hippocration Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54642 Thessaloniki, Greece; (N.E.); (N.K.); (P.E.); (V.I.A.); (S.C.); (S.V.)
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Meier N, Fuchs H, Galactionova K, Hermans C, Pletscher M, Schwenkglenks M. Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of Etranacogene Dezaparvovec Versus Extended Half-Life Prophylaxis for Moderate-to-Severe Haemophilia B in Germany. PHARMACOECONOMICS - OPEN 2024; 8:373-387. [PMID: 38520664 PMCID: PMC11058170 DOI: 10.1007/s41669-024-00480-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Haemophilia B is a rare genetic disease that is caused by a deficiency of coagulation factor IX (FIX) in the blood and leads to internal and external bleeding. Under the current standard of care, haemophilia is treated either prophylactically or on-demand via intravenous infusions of FIX. These treatment strategies impose a high burden on patients and health care systems as haemophilia B requires lifelong treatment, and FIX is costly. Etranacogene dezaparvovec (ED) is a gene therapy for haemophilia B that has been recently approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration and has received a recommendation for conditional marketing authorization by the European Medicines Agency. We aimed to examine the cost-effectiveness of ED versus extended half-life FIX (EHL-FIX) prophylaxis for moderate-to-severe haemophilia B from a German health care payer perspective. METHODS A microsimulation model was implemented in R. The model used data from the ED phase 3 clinical trial publication and further secondary data sources to simulate and compare patients receiving ED or EHL-FIX prophylaxis over a lifetime horizon, with the potential for ED patients to switch treatment to EHL-FIX prophylaxis when the effectiveness of ED waned. Primary outcomes of this analysis included discounted total costs, discounted quality-adjusted life years (QALYs), incremental cost-effectiveness, and the incremental net monetary benefit. The annual discount rate for costs and effects was 3%. Uncertainty was examined via probabilistic analysis and additional univariate sensitivity analyses. RESULTS Probabilistic analysis indicated that patients treated with ED instead of EHL-FIX prophylaxis gained 0.50 QALYs and experienced cost savings of EUR 1,179,829 at a price of EUR 1,500,000 per ED treatment. ED was the dominant treatment strategy. At a willingness to pay of EUR 50,000/QALY, the incremental net monetary benefit amounted to EUR 1,204,840. DISCUSSION Depending on the price, ED can save costs and improve health outcomes of haemophilia patients compared with EHL-FIX prophylaxis, making it a potentially cost-effective alternative. These results are uncertain due to a lack of evidence regarding the long-term effectiveness of ED.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niklaus Meier
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Medicine (ECPM), University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Hendrik Fuchs
- Institute of Diagnostic Laboratory Medicine, Clinical Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Katya Galactionova
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Medicine (ECPM), University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Cedric Hermans
- Haemostasis and Thrombosis Unit, Division of Hematology, Cliniques universitaires Saint-Luc, Université catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Mark Pletscher
- Institute of Health Economics and Health Policy, Bern University of Applied Sciences, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Matthias Schwenkglenks
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Medicine (ECPM), University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Health Economics Facility, Department of Public Health, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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8
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Pierce GF, Fong S, Long BR, Kaczmarek R. Deciphering conundrums of adeno-associated virus liver-directed gene therapy: focus on hemophilia. J Thromb Haemost 2024; 22:1263-1289. [PMID: 38103734 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtha.2023.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus gene therapy has been the subject of intensive investigation for monogenic disease gene addition therapy for more than 25 years, yet few therapies have been approved by regulatory agencies. Most have not progressed beyond phase 1/2 due to toxicity, lack of efficacy, or both. The liver is a natural target for adeno-associated virus since most serotypes have a high degree of tropism for hepatocytes due to cell surface receptors for the virus and the unique liver sinusoidal geometry facilitating high volumes of blood contact with hepatocyte cell surfaces. Recessive monogenic diseases such as hemophilia represent promising targets since the defective proteins are often synthesized in the liver and secreted into the circulation, making them easy to measure, and many do not require precise regulation. Yet, despite initiation of many disease-specific clinical trials, therapeutic windows are often nonexistent, resulting in excess toxicity and insufficient efficacy. Iterative progress built on these attempts is best illustrated by hemophilia, with the first regulatory approvals for factor IX and factor VIII gene therapies eventually achieved 25 years after the first gene therapy studies in humans. Although successful gene transfer may result in the production of sufficient transgenic protein to modify the disease, many emerging questions on durability, predictability, reliability, and variability of response have not been answered. The underlying biology accounting for these heterogeneous responses and the interplay between host and virus is the subject of intense investigation and the subject of this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Glenn F Pierce
- World Federation of Hemophilia, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
| | - Sylvia Fong
- BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc, Research and Early Development, Novato, California, USA
| | - Brian R Long
- BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc, Research and Early Development, Novato, California, USA
| | - Radoslaw Kaczmarek
- Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Indiana, USA; Laboratory of Glycobiology, Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Wroclaw, Poland
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Shen G, Liu J, Yang H, Xie N, Yang Y. mRNA therapies: Pioneering a new era in rare genetic disease treatment. J Control Release 2024; 369:696-721. [PMID: 38580137 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.03.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2023] [Revised: 03/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/30/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024]
Abstract
Rare genetic diseases, often referred to as orphan diseases due to their low prevalence and limited treatment options, have long posed significant challenges to our medical system. In recent years, Messenger RNA (mRNA) therapy has emerged as a highly promising treatment approach for various diseases caused by genetic mutations. Chemically modified mRNA is introduced into cells using carriers like lipid-based nanoparticles (LNPs), producing functional proteins that compensate for genetic deficiencies. Given the advantages of precise dosing, biocompatibility, transient expression, and minimal risk of genomic integration, mRNA therapies can safely and effectively correct genetic defects in rare diseases and improve symptoms. Currently, dozens of mRNA drugs targeting rare diseases are undergoing clinical trials. This comprehensive review summarizes the progress of mRNA therapy in treating rare genetic diseases. It introduces the development, molecular design, and delivery systems of mRNA therapy, highlighting their research progress in rare genetic diseases based on protein replacement and gene editing. The review also summarizes research progress in various rare disease models and clinical trials. Additionally, it discusses the challenges and future prospects of mRNA therapy. Researchers are encouraged to join this field and collaborate to advance the clinical translation of mRNA therapy, bringing hope to patients with rare genetic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guobo Shen
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Jian Liu
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Hanmei Yang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Na Xie
- West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
| | - Yang Yang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
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10
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Sussman C, Liberatore RA, Drozdz MM. Delivery of DNA-Based Therapeutics for Treatment of Chronic Diseases. Pharmaceutics 2024; 16:535. [PMID: 38675196 PMCID: PMC11053842 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16040535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2024] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Gene therapy and its role in the medical field have evolved drastically in recent decades. Studies aim to define DNA-based medicine as well as encourage innovation and the further development of novel approaches. Gene therapy has been established as an alternative approach to treat a variety of diseases. Its range of mechanistic applicability is wide; gene therapy has the capacity to address the symptoms of disease, the body's ability to fight disease, and in some cases has the ability to cure disease, making it a more attractive intervention than some traditional approaches to treatment (i.e., medicine and surgery). Such versatility also suggests gene therapy has the potential to address a greater number of indications than conventional treatments. Many DNA-based therapies have shown promise in clinical trials, and several have been approved for use in humans. Whereas current treatment regimens for chronic disease often require frequent dosing, DNA-based therapies can produce robust and durable expression of therapeutic genes with fewer treatments. This benefit encourages the application of DNA-based gene therapy to manage chronic diseases, an area where improving efficiency of current treatments is urgent. Here, we provide an overview of two DNA-based gene therapies as well as their delivery methods: adeno associated virus (AAV)-based gene therapy and plasmid DNA (pDNA)-based gene therapy. We will focus on how these therapies have already been utilized to improve treatment of chronic disease, as well as how current literature supports the expansion of these therapies to treat additional chronic indications in the future.
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Anguela XM, High KA. Hemophilia B and gene therapy: a new chapter with etranacogene dezaparvovec. Blood Adv 2024; 8:1796-1803. [PMID: 38592711 PMCID: PMC11006816 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2023010511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)'s authorization of etranacogene dezaparvovec (Hemgenix) is a significant milestone, constituting not only the first FDA approval of a gene therapy for hemophilia but also the first approval of a liver-targeted adeno-associated virus vector gene therapy. This review summarizes the nonclinical studies and clinical development that supported regulatory clearance. Similar to other gene therapies for single gene disorders, both the short-term safety and the phenotypic improvement were unequivocal, justifying the modest-sized safety and efficacy database, which included 57 participants across the phase 2b (3 participants) and phase 3 (54 participants) studies. The most common adverse reactions included liver enzyme elevation, headache, flu-like symptoms, infusion-related reactions, creatine kinase elevation, malaise, and fatigue; these were mostly transient. One participant had hepatocellular carcinoma on a study-mandated liver ultrasound conducted 1 year after vector infusion; molecular analysis of the resected tumor showed no evidence of vector-related insertional mutagenesis as the etiology. A remarkable 96% of participants in the phase 3 trial were able to stop factor IX (FIX) prophylaxis, with the study demonstrating noninferiority to FIX prophylaxis in terms of the primary end point, annualized bleeding rate. Key secondary end points such as the annualized infusion rate, which declined by 97%, and the plasma FIX activity level at 18 months after infusion, with least squares mean increase of 34.3 percentage points compared with baseline, were both clinically and statistically significant. The FDA's landmark approval of Hemgenix as a pioneering treatment for hemophilia stands on the shoulders of >20 years of gene therapy clinical research and heralds a promising future for genomic medicines.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Katherine A. High
- Rockefeller University, New York, NY
- Perelman School of Medicine of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
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Bala NS, Thornburg CD. Gene Therapy in Hemophilia A: Achievements, Challenges, and Perspectives. Semin Thromb Hemost 2024. [PMID: 38588706 DOI: 10.1055/s-0044-1785483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
Strides in advancements of care of persons with hemophilia include development of long-acting factor replacement therapies, novel substitution and hemostatic rebalancing agents, and most recently approved gene therapy. Several decades of preclinical and clinical trials have led to development of adeno-associated viral (AAV) vector-mediated gene transfer for endogenous production of factor VIII (FVIII) in hemophilia A (HA). Only one gene therapy product for HA (valoctocogene roxaparvovec) has been approved by regulatory authorities. Results of valoctocogene roxaparvovec trial show significant improvement in bleeding rates and use of factor replacement therapy; however, sustainability and duration of response show variability with overall decline in FVIII expression over time. Further challenges include untoward adverse effects involving liver toxicity requiring immunosuppression and development of neutralizing antibodies to AAV vector rendering future doses ineffective. Real-life applicability of gene therapy for HA will require appropriate patient screening, infrastructure setup, long-term monitoring including data collection of patient-reported outcomes and innovative payment schemes. This review article highlights the success and development of HA gene therapy trials, challenges including adverse outcomes and variability of response, and perspectives on approach to gene therapy including shared decision-making and need for future strategies to overcome the several unmet needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha S Bala
- Rady Children's Hospital San Diego, Hemophilia and Thrombosis Treatment Center, San Diego, California
- Department of Pediatrics, UC San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, California
| | - Courtney D Thornburg
- Rady Children's Hospital San Diego, Hemophilia and Thrombosis Treatment Center, San Diego, California
- Department of Pediatrics, UC San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, California
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13
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Coppens M, Pipe SW, Miesbach W, Astermark J, Recht M, van der Valk P, Ewenstein B, Pinachyan K, Galante N, Le Quellec S, Monahan PE, Leebeek FWG. Etranacogene dezaparvovec gene therapy for haemophilia B (HOPE-B): 24-month post-hoc efficacy and safety data from a single-arm, multicentre, phase 3 trial. Lancet Haematol 2024; 11:e265-e275. [PMID: 38437857 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-3026(24)00006-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Etranacogene dezaparvovec, the first gene therapy approved for haemophilia B treatment, was shown to be superior to treatment with continuous prophylactic factor IX in terms of bleeding protection 18 months after gene therapy in a phase 3 trial. We report post-hoc 24-month efficacy and safety data from this trial to evaluate the longer-term effects of etranacogene dezaparvovec in individuals with haemophilia B. METHODS The phase 3 HOPE-B trial enrolled males aged 18 years or older with inherited haemophilia B, classified as severe (plasma factor IX activity level <1%) or moderately severe (plasma factor IX activity level ≥1% and ≤2%), with a severe bleeding phenotype and who were on stable continuous factor IX prophylaxis. Participants were treated with a single infusion of etranacogene dezaparvovec (2 × 1013 genome copies per kg of bodyweight). The primary endpoint, reported previously, was non-inferiority of the annualised bleeding rate (ABR) during the 52 weeks following stable factor IX expression (defined as months 7-18 after treatment) versus an at least 6-month lead-in period in which participants received their usual continuous factor IX prophylaxis, and is updated here up to month 24. Additional, post-hoc efficacy analyses, including adjusted ABR, factor IX activity, participants within factor IX ranges, and factor IX use, and safety analyses were performed at 24 months after gene therapy. Data were analysed in the full analysis set, which comprised the 54 patients who received at least a partial dose of gene therapy. The trial is ongoing and is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT03569891. FINDINGS The study began on June 27, 2018, and participants were treated between January, 2019, and March, 2020; the date of data cutoff was April 21, 2022. 54 adult males (40 White, two Asian, one Black or African American, 11 other or missing) received a single intravenous infusion of etranacogene dezaparvovec and were followed for a median of 26·51 months (IQR 24·54-27·99), after a lead-in period of 7·13 months (6·51-7·82). In the updated analysis comparing months 7-24 after gene therapy to the lead-in period, mean adjusted ABR significantly reduced from 4·18 to 1·51 (p=0·0002) for all bleeds and from 3·65 to 0·99 (p=0·0001) for factor IX-treated bleeds. During each 6-month period after gene therapy, at least 67% of participants experienced no bleeding (36 of 54 during months 0-6 and stable thereafter), compared with 14 (26%) of 54 during the lead-in period. 24 months after gene therapy, 1 (2%) participant had one-stage factor IX activity less than 5%, whereas 18 (33%) had factor IX activity more than 40% (non-haemophilia range), with mean factor IX activity stable and sustained at 36·7% (SD 19·0%). 52 (96%) of 54 participants expressed endogenous factor IX, remaining free of factor IX prophylaxis at month 24. No new safety concerns were identified and no treatment-related serious adverse events or treatment-related deaths occurred. The most common treatment-related adverse events were an increase in alanine aminotransferase (nine [17%] of 54 patients), headache (eight [15%]), influenza-like illness (seven [13%]), and an increase in aspartate aminotransferase (five [9%]). INTERPRETATION By providing durable disease correction throughout the 24 months after gene therapy, etranacogene dezaparvovec provides a safe and effective therapeutic option for patients with severe or moderately severe haemophilia B. FUNDING uniQure and CSL Behring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michiel Coppens
- Department of Vascular Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands; Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Pulmonary Hypertension & Thrombosis, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
| | | | | | - Jan Astermark
- Department of Translational Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden; Department of Hematology, Oncology and Radiation Physics, Skåne University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden
| | | | - Paul van der Valk
- Van Creveldkliniek, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Frank W G Leebeek
- Department of Hematology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, Netherlands
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Thornburg CD. The benefits of gene therapy in people with haemophilia. J Viral Hepat 2024; 31 Suppl 1:4-8. [PMID: 38606945 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
Haemophilia is an inherited bleeding disorder which causes significant morbidity and mortality, especially in the severe form. Prophylaxis with factor replacement has high efficacy in reducing bleeding but is limited by the need for frequent intravenous infusion and fluctuations in haemostasis between doses. Additional prophylaxis therapies are being developed which may overcome some of the current treatment barriers. Gene therapy (GT) is being developed to provide a functional cure such that there is sustained factor expression and minimal to no need for additional haemostatic therapy. There are now two approved gene therapies for haemophilia which may be transformative for many individuals. Benefits of GT should go beyond increasing factor activity and reducing bleeding as persons with haemophilia aim to achieve a 'haemophilia-free mind' and health equity with optimal health and well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Courtney D Thornburg
- Hemophilia and Thrombosis Treatment Center, Rady Children's Hospital San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology/Oncology, UC San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, California, USA
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15
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Maina A, Foster GR. Hepatitis after gene therapy, what are the possible causes? J Viral Hepat 2024; 31 Suppl 1:14-20. [PMID: 38606951 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
Hepatitis is a common adverse event following gene therapy for haemophilia, often associated with a loss of transgene expression. Investigating the potential causes and implications of this is crucial for the overall success of treatment. Gene therapy trials using adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors have demonstrated promising results marked by increases in factor FVIII and FIX levels and reductions in episodes of bleeding. However, hepatocellular injury characterised by elevations in alanine aminotransferases (ALT) has been noted. This liver injury is typically transient and asymptomatic, posing challenges in determining its clinical significance. Proposed causes encompass immune-mediated responses, notably T cell cytotoxicity in response to the AAV vector, direct liver injury from the viral capsid or transcribed protein via the unfolded protein response and pre-existing liver conditions. Liver biopsy data conducted years post-gene therapy infusion has shown sinusoidal infiltration without significant inflammation. The overall safety profile of gene therapy remains favourable with no evidence drug-induced liver injury (DILI) based on Hy's Law criteria. Essential pre-therapy monitoring and identifying patients at high risk of liver injury should involve liver function tests and non-invasive fibroscans, while novel blood-based biomarkers are under exploration. Further research is required to comprehend the mechanisms underlying transaminitis, loss of transgene expression and long-term effects on the liver, providing insights for optimising gene therapy for haemophilia.
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Harper J, Betts MR, Lichterfeld M, Müller-Trutwin M, Margolis D, Bar KJ, Li JZ, McCune JM, Lewin SR, Kulpa D, Ávila-Ríos S, Diallo DD, Lederman MM, Paiardini M. Erratum to: Progress Note 2024: Curing HIV; Not in My Lifetime or Just Around the Corner? Pathog Immun 2024; 8:179-222. [PMID: 38505662 PMCID: PMC10949969 DOI: 10.20411/pai.v8i2.696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024] Open
Abstract
[This corrects the article DOI: 10.20411/pai.v8i2.665.].
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin Harper
- Division of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Michael R. Betts
- Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Center for AIDS Research, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Mathias Lichterfeld
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts
- Infectious Disease Division, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Michaela Müller-Trutwin
- HIV Inflammation and Persistence Unit, Institut Pasteur, Université Paris-Cité, Paris, France
| | - David Margolis
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Center for AIDS Research, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Katharine J. Bar
- Center for AIDS Research, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Jonathan Z. Li
- Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Joseph M. McCune
- HIV Frontiers, Global Health Accelerator, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
| | - Sharon R. Lewin
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Australia
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Service, Royal Melbourne Hospital at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Alfred Hospital and Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Deanna Kulpa
- Division of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Santiago Ávila-Ríos
- Centro de Investigación en Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Respiratorias, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | - Michael M. Lederman
- Division of Infectious Diseases and HIV Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Mirko Paiardini
- Division of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
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Borroni E, Borsotti C, Cirsmaru RA, Kalandadze V, Famà R, Merlin S, Brown B, Follenzi A. Immune tolerance promotion by LSEC-specific lentiviral vector-mediated expression of the transgene regulated by the stabilin-2 promoter. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2024; 35:102116. [PMID: 38333675 PMCID: PMC10850788 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2024.102116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) are specialized endocytic cells that clear the body from blood-borne pathogens and waste macromolecules through scavenger receptors (SRs). Among the various SRs expressed by LSECs is stabilin-2 (STAB2), a class H SR that binds to several ligands, among which endogenous coagulation products. Given the well-established tolerogenic function of LSECs, we asked whether the STAB2 promoter (STAB2p) would enable us to achieve LSEC-specific lentiviral vector (LV)-mediated transgene expression, and whether the expression of this transgene would be maintained over the long term due to tolerance induction. Here, we show that STAB2p ensures LSEC-specific green fluorescent protein (GFP) expression by LV in the absence of a specific cytotoxic CD8+ T cell immune response, even in the presence of GFP-specific CD8+ T cells, confirming the robust tolerogenic function of LSECs. Finally, we show that our delivery system can partially and permanently restore FVIII activity in a mouse model of severe hemophilia A without the formation of anti-FVIII antibodies. Overall, our findings establish the suitability of STAB2p for long-term LSEC-restricted expression of therapeutic proteins, such as FVIII, or to achieve antigen-specific immune tolerance in auto-immune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ester Borroni
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Chiara Borsotti
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Roberta A. Cirsmaru
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Vakhtang Kalandadze
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Rosella Famà
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Simone Merlin
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Brian Brown
- Icahn Genomics Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York 10029, NY, USA
| | - Antonia Follenzi
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Department of Attività Integrate Ricerca Innovazione, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria SS. Antonio e Biagio e C.Arrigo, Alessandria, Italy
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18
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Harper J, Betts MR, Lichterfeld M, Müller-Trutwin M, Margolis D, Bar KJ, Li JZ, McCune JM, Lewin SR, Kulpa D, Ávila-Ríos S, Diallo DD, Lederman MM, Paiardini M. Progress Note 2024: Curing HIV; Not in My Lifetime or Just Around the Corner? Pathog Immun 2024; 8:115-157. [PMID: 38455668 PMCID: PMC10919397 DOI: 10.20411/pai.v8i2.665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Once a death sentence, HIV is now considered a manageable chronic disease due to the development of antiretroviral therapy (ART) regimens with minimal toxicity and a high barrier for genetic resistance. While highly effective in arresting AIDS progression and rendering the virus untransmissible in people living with HIV (PLWH) with undetectable viremia (U=U) [1, 2]), ART alone is incapable of eradicating the "reservoir" of resting, latently infected CD4+ T cells from which virus recrudesces upon treatment cessation. As of 2022 estimates, there are 39 million PLWH, of whom 86% are aware of their status and 76% are receiving ART [3]. As of 2017, ART-treated PLWH exhibit near normalized life expectancies without adjustment for socioeconomic differences [4]. Furthermore, there is a global deceleration in the rate of new infections [3] driven by expanded access to pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), HIV testing in vulnerable populations, and by ART treatment [5]. Therefore, despite outstanding issues pertaining to cost and access in developing countries, there is strong enthusiasm that aggressive testing, treatment, and effective viral suppression may be able to halt the ongoing HIV epidemic (ie, UNAIDS' 95-95-95 targets) [6-8]; especially as evidenced by recent encouraging observations in Sydney [9]. Despite these promising efforts to limit further viral transmission, for PLWH, a "cure" remains elusive; whether it be to completely eradicate the viral reservoir (ie, cure) or to induce long-term viral remission in the absence of ART (ie, control; Figure 1). In a previous salon hosted by Pathogens and Immunity in 2016 [10], some researchers were optimistic that a cure was a feasible, scalable goal, albeit with no clear consensus on the best route. So, how are these cure strategies panning out? In this commentary, 8 years later, we will provide a brief overview on recent advances and failures towards identifying determinants of viral persistence and developing a scalable cure for HIV. Based on these observations, and as in the earlier salon, we have asked several prominent HIV cure researchers for their perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin Harper
- Division of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Michael R. Betts
- Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Center for AIDS Research, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Mathias Lichterfeld
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts
- Infectious Disease Division, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Michaela Müller-Trutwin
- HIV Inflammation and Persistence Unit, Institut Pasteur, Université Paris-Cité, Paris, France
| | - David Margolis
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Center for AIDS Research, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Katharine J. Bar
- Center for AIDS Research, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Jonathan Z. Li
- Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Joseph M. McCune
- HIV Frontiers, Global Health Accelerator, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
| | - Sharon R. Lewin
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Australia
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Service, Royal Melbourne Hospital at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Alfred Hospital and Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Deanna Kulpa
- Division of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Santiago Ávila-Ríos
- Centro de Investigación en Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Respiratorias, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | - Michael M. Lederman
- Division of Infectious Diseases and HIV Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Mirko Paiardini
- Division of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
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19
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Han Z, Yi X, Li J, Liao D, Gao G, Ai J. Efficacy and Safety of Adeno-Associated Virus-Based Clinical Gene Therapy for Hemophilia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Hum Gene Ther 2024; 35:93-103. [PMID: 38185849 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2023.208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Clinical trials of adeno-associated virus (AAV)-based gene therapy have made remarkable progress in recent years. We aimed to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature to assess the efficacy and safety of AAV-based gene therapy for hemophilia. We systematically searched the Web of Science, Embase, PubMed, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews databases, for clinical trials involving patients diagnosed with hemophilia and treated with AAV-mediated gene therapy. Data on the annualized bleeding rate (ABR), annualized infusion rate (AIR), the incidence of treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs), severe adverse events (SAEs), and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) elevation were extracted as our outcomes. A total of 12 articles from 11 clinical trials were selected from 868 articles for meta-analysis. Pooled analyses showed that AAV-based gene therapy in hemophilia patients reduced the number of bleeding events and the number of factor infusion events by an approximate average of 7 per year and 103 per year, respectively. Eighty percent, 18%, and 63% of hemophilia patients had elevated TRAE, SAE, and ALT levels, respectively. Moreover, subgroup analysis found a significant reduction in ABR and AIR 2-3 years after the therapy. Additional findings that were not pooled including coagulation factor activity are presented in the accompanying tables. Our analysis supported the efficacy and safety of AAV-mediated gene therapy for hemophilia, providing evidence for its application as a therapeutic option for widespread clinical use in hemophilia patients in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeyu Han
- Department of Urology, Institute of Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xianyanling Yi
- Department of Urology, Institute of Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jin Li
- Department of Urology, Institute of Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Dazhou Liao
- Department of Urology, Institute of Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Guangping Gao
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jianzhong Ai
- Department of Urology, Institute of Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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20
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Burgis NE, VanWormer K, Robbins D, Smith J. An ITPA Enzyme with Improved Substrate Selectivity. Protein J 2024; 43:62-71. [PMID: 38066288 PMCID: PMC10901923 DOI: 10.1007/s10930-023-10162-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
Recent clinical data have identified infant patients with lethal ITPA deficiencies. ITPA is known to modulate ITP concentrations in cells and has a critical function in neural development which is not understood. Polymorphism of the ITPA gene affects outcomes for both ribavirin and thiopurine based therapies and nearly one third of the human population is thought to harbor ITPA polymorphism. In a previous site-directed mutagenesis alanine screen of the ITPA substrate selectivity pocket, we identified the ITPA mutant, E22A, as a gain-of function mutant with enhanced ITP hydrolysis activity. Here we report a rational enzyme engineering experiment to investigate the biochemical properties of position 22 ITPA mutants and find that the E22D ITPA has two- and four-fold improved substrate selectivity for ITP over the canonical purine triphosphates ATP and GTP, respectively, while maintaining biological activity. The novel E22D ITPA should be considered as a platform for further development of ITPA therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas E Burgis
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry & Physics, Eastern Washington University, Cheney, WA, 99004, USA.
| | - Kandise VanWormer
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry & Physics, Eastern Washington University, Cheney, WA, 99004, USA
| | - Devin Robbins
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry & Physics, Eastern Washington University, Cheney, WA, 99004, USA
| | - Jonathan Smith
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry & Physics, Eastern Washington University, Cheney, WA, 99004, USA
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21
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Mücke MM, Fong S, Foster GR, Lillicrap D, Miesbach W, Zeuzem S. Adeno-associated viruses for gene therapy - clinical implications and liver-related complications, a guide for hepatologists. J Hepatol 2024; 80:352-361. [PMID: 37890721 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2023.10.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
Gene therapy has garnered increasing interest over recent decades. Several therapies employing gene transfer mechanisms have been developed, and, of these, adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors have demonstrated viability for use with in vivo gene therapy. Several AAV-based therapeutics have received regulatory approval in the last few years including those for retinal disease, spinal muscular atrophy or aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase deficiency. Lately, with the introduction of novel liver-directed AAV vector-based therapeutics for the treatment of haemophilia A and B, gene therapy has attracted significant attention in the hepatology community, with the liver increasingly recognised as a target for gene therapy. However, the introduction of foreign DNA into hepatocytes is associated with a risk of hepatic reactions, with raised ALT (alanine aminotransferase) and AST (aspartate aminotransferase) being - so far - the most commonly reported side effects. The complete mechanisms underlying the ALT flairs remain to be determined and the long-term risks associated with these new treatments is not yet known. The liver community is increasingly being asked to support liver-directed gene therapy to mitigate potential liver associated harm. In this review, we focus on AAV vector-based gene therapy, shedding light on this promising technique and its remarkable success in haemophilia, with a special focus on hepatic complications and their management in daily clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcus Maximilian Mücke
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Sylvia Fong
- Research and Early Development, BioMarin Pharmaceutical. Inc, San Rafael, United States
| | - Graham R Foster
- Barts Liver Centre, Blizard Institute, QMUL, London, United Kingdom.
| | - David Lillicrap
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, Canada
| | - Wolfgang Miesbach
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Haemostaseology and Haemophilia Centre, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Stefan Zeuzem
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
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Russell H, Hord J, Orr CJ, Moerdler S. Child Health and the Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Workforce: 2020-2040. Pediatrics 2024; 153:e2023063678L. [PMID: 38299998 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2023-063678l] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Pediatric hematology-oncology (PHO) is 1 of the oldest recognized pediatric subspecialities. PHO physicians care for infants, children, adolescents, and young adults with all types of cancer and nonmalignant blood conditions, in many cases temporarily assuming the role of a primary care physician because of the complexity and intensity of treatment. However, the number of clinically active PHO subspecialists needed to care for children in the United States remains unknown. Recent papers suggest a potential oversaturation of PHO physicians in some geographic areas. This article is part of a Pediatrics supplement focused on projecting the future supply of the pediatric subspecialty workforce. It draws on information available in the literature, data from the American Board of Pediatrics, and findings from a new microsimulation model estimating the future supply of pediatric subspecialists through 2040. The model predicts a workforce growth in PHO subspecialists of 66% by 2040. Alternative scenarios, including changes in clinical time and fellowship size, resulted in a difference in growth of ±18% from baseline. The model also forecasts significant geographic maldistribution. For example, the current workforce is concentrated in the Northeast Census region and the model predicts the New England Census division will have a 2.9-fold higher clinical workforce equivalent per 100 000 children aged 0 to 18 years than the Mountain Census division by 2040. These findings suggest potential opportunities to improve the PHO subspecialty workforce and the outcomes and experiences of its patient population through educational changes, practice initiatives, policy interventions, and dedicated research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidi Russell
- University of Texas Health Houston School of Public Health, Department of Management, Policy and Community Health, Houston, Texas
| | - Jeffrey Hord
- Akron Children's Hospital, Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, Akron, Ohio
| | - Colin J Orr
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
- Sheps Center for Health Services Research, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Scott Moerdler
- Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, New Jersey
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23
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Rossi A, Brunetti-Pierri N. Gene therapies for mucopolysaccharidoses. J Inherit Metab Dis 2024; 47:135-144. [PMID: 37204267 DOI: 10.1002/jimd.12626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Current specific treatments for mucopolysaccharidoses (MPSs) include enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Both treatments are hampered by several limitations, including lack of efficacy on brain and skeletal manifestations, need for lifelong injections, and high costs. Therefore, more effective treatments are needed. Gene therapy in MPSs is aimed at obtaining high levels of the therapeutic enzyme in multiple tissues either by engrafted gene-modified hematopoietic stem progenitor cells (ex vivo) or by direct infusion of a viral vector expressing the therapeutic gene (in vivo). This review focuses on the most recent clinical progress in gene therapies for MPSs. The various gene therapy approaches with their strengths and limitations are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Rossi
- Department of Translational Medicine, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Nicola Brunetti-Pierri
- Department of Translational Medicine, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine, Pozzuoli, Italy
- Scuola Superiore Meridionale (SSM, School of Advanced Studies), Genomics and Experimental Medicine Program, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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24
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Pietu G, Giraud N, Chamouard V, Duport G, Lienhart A, Dargaud Y. Perspectives and perception of haemophilia gene therapy by French patients. Haemophilia 2024; 30:68-74. [PMID: 38058235 DOI: 10.1111/hae.14908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND AIM A national survey was initiated by representatives of French patients with haemophilia (AFH) and the French reference centre for haemophilia, in order to appreciate the awareness and knowledge of these patients regarding haemophilia gene therapy (HGT) and understand better their position about this innovative treatment that will soon become available. RESULTS Of 143 answers received, 137 could be analysed, representing about 3.5% of patients with severe or moderate haemophilia over 16year-old. They were 80.3% with haemophilia A and 19.7 % with haemophilia B, with a severe form of the disease for 80.3 % of them. Curiosity for HGT was formulated by 64.2% of the participants, 33.6 % being interested by this approach as soon as it will be available and 38.7 % preferring to wait until more patients have been treated. Only 3.6 % of the participants would never consider receiving HGT. The level of awareness and knowledge was estimated to be limited by 39.5 % of the patients. More than 60 % of them declared having never or almost never discussed HGT with the team of their haemophilia centre. Before deciding to get HGT, 54.4 % of the participants considered that it will be very important to compare it with their current treatment and 53.7 % would like to be better informed by their care providers. CONCLUSIONS These results highlight the need for training and education for patients, but also for professionals at haemophilia centres, about HGT and the shared decision-making process. Objective, unbiased and transparent information must be available for patients about this very promising therapy which nonetheless carries more uncertainty and unknowns compared to other haemophilia treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Valérie Chamouard
- Centre de Référence de l'Haémophilie, Unité d'Hémostase Clinique, Hôpital Louis Pradel, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | | | - Anne Lienhart
- Centre de Référence de l'Haémophilie, Unité d'Hémostase Clinique, Hôpital Louis Pradel, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Yesim Dargaud
- Centre de Référence de l'Haémophilie, Unité d'Hémostase Clinique, Hôpital Louis Pradel, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
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25
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Theuerkauf SA, Herrera-Carrillo E, John F, Zinser LJ, Molina MA, Riechert V, Thalheimer FB, Börner K, Grimm D, Chlanda P, Berkhout B, Buchholz CJ. AAV vectors displaying bispecific DARPins enable dual-control targeted gene delivery. Biomaterials 2023; 303:122399. [PMID: 37992599 PMCID: PMC10721713 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2023.122399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
Precise delivery of genes to therapy-relevant cells is crucial for in vivo gene therapy. Receptor-targeting as prime strategy for this purpose is limited to cell types defined by a single cell-surface marker. Many target cells are characterized by combinations of more than one marker, such as the HIV reservoir cells. Here, we explored the tropism of adeno-associated viral vectors (AAV2) displaying designed ankyrin repeat proteins (DARPins) mono- and bispecific for CD4 and CD32a. Cryo-electron tomography revealed an unaltered capsid structure in the presence of DARPins. Surprisingly, bispecific AAVs transduced CD4/CD32a double-positive cells at much higher efficiencies than single-positive cells, even if present in low amounts in cell mixtures or human blood. This preference was confirmed when vector particles were systemically administered into mice. Cell trafficking studies revealed an increased cell entry rate for bispecific over monospecific AAVs. When equipped with an HIV genome-targeting CRISPR/Cas cassette, the vectors prevented HIV replication in T cell cultures. The data provide proof-of-concept for high-precision gene delivery through tandem-binding regions on AAV. Reminiscent of biological products following Boolean logic AND gating, the data suggest a new option for receptor-targeted vectors to improve the specificity and safety of in vivo gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel A Theuerkauf
- Gene Therapy and Molecular Biotechnology, Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, Langen, Germany
| | | | - Fabian John
- Gene Therapy and Molecular Biotechnology, Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, Langen, Germany; Frankfurt Cancer Institute, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Luca J Zinser
- Gene Therapy and Molecular Biotechnology, Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, Langen, Germany
| | | | - Vanessa Riechert
- Gene Therapy and Molecular Biotechnology, Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, Langen, Germany
| | - Frederic B Thalheimer
- Gene Therapy and Molecular Biotechnology, Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, Langen, Germany; Frankfurt Cancer Institute, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Kathleen Börner
- Department of Infectious Diseases/Virology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany; BioQuant, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany; German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Dirk Grimm
- BioQuant, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany; German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Heidelberg, Germany; Department of Infectious Diseases/Virology, Section Viral Vector Technologies, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany; German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Petr Chlanda
- Department of Infectious Diseases/Virology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany; BioQuant, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany; Schaller Research Groups, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | - Christian J Buchholz
- Gene Therapy and Molecular Biotechnology, Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, Langen, Germany; Frankfurt Cancer Institute, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany.
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26
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Puetz J. Emergent data influences the risk/benefit assessment of hemophilia gene therapy using recombinant adeno-associated virus. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1256919. [PMID: 38020165 PMCID: PMC10667906 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1256919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
After decades of investigation, gene therapy has received regulatory approval to treat hemophilia. However, since gene therapy investigations were initially conceived, other avenues of treatment have revolutionized the care of hemophilia. Emergent data is showing that gene therapy may not be as beneficial as hoped and more toxic than planned. At a minimum, a reassessment of risk/benefit estimate of gene therapy for hemophilia is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Puetz
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
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27
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Di Minno G, Spadarella G, Maldonato NM, De Lucia N, Castaman G, De Cristofaro R, Santoro C, Peyvandi F, Borrelli A, Lupi A, Follino M, Guerrino G, Morisco F, Di Minno M. Awareness of individual goals, preferences, and priorities of persons with severe congenital haemophilia A for a tailored shared decision-making approach to liver-directed gene therapy. A practical guideline. Blood Rev 2023; 62:101118. [PMID: 37544828 DOI: 10.1016/j.blre.2023.101118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
In clinical medicine, shared decision making (SDM) is a well-recognized strategy to enhance engagement of both patients and clinicians in medical decisions. The success of liver-directed gene therapy (GT) to transform severe congenital haemophilia A (HA) from an incurable to a curable disease has launched a shift beyond current standards of treatment. However, GT acceptance remains low in the community of HA persons. We argue for both persons with haemophilia (PWH) and specialists in HA care including clinicians, as needing SDM-oriented educational programs devoted to GT. Here, we provide an ad hoc outline to implement education to SDM and tailor clinician information on GT to individual PWHs. Based on routine key components of SDM: patient priorities; recommendations based on individual risk reduction; adverse effects; drug-drug interactions; alternatives to GT; and ongoing re-assessment of the objectives as risk factors (and individual priorities) change, this approach is finalized to exploit efficacious communication.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gaia Spadarella
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche Traslazionali, Naples, Italy.
| | - Nelson Mauro Maldonato
- Dipartimento di Neuroscienze e di Scienze Riproduttive e Odontostomatologiche, "Federico II" University, Naples, Italy
| | - Natascia De Lucia
- Dipartimento di Neuroscienze e di Scienze Riproduttive e Odontostomatologiche, "Federico II" University, Naples, Italy.
| | - Giancarlo Castaman
- Center for Bleeding Disorders and Coagulation, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy.
| | - Raimondo De Cristofaro
- Section of Haemorrhagic and Thrombotic Diseases, Department of Medicine and Translational Surgery, Sacred Heart University, Rome, Italy..
| | - Cristina Santoro
- Ematologia, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Policlinico Umberto I, Rome, Italy.
| | - Flora Peyvandi
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Angelo Bianchi Bonomi Hemophilia and Thrombosis Center, 20122 Milan, Italy; Università degli Studi di Milano, Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Milan, Italy.
| | - Anna Borrelli
- Direzione Sanitaria, AOU "Federico II" Napoli, Italy
| | - Angelo Lupi
- Federazione delle Associazioni Emofilici (FedEmo), Milan, Italy.
| | | | | | | | - Matteo Di Minno
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Naples, Italy.
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28
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Amid A. Editorial: Modern approaches to hemophilia management in children and adolescents. Front Pediatr 2023; 11:1273639. [PMID: 37744446 PMCID: PMC10512017 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2023.1273639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ali Amid
- BC Children’s Hospital, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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29
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Hunt BJ, Corral J, Simioni P. Should we consider gene therapy in severe inherited thrombophilia? Communication from the ISTH SSC Subcommittee on Physiological Anticoagulants and Thrombophilia. J Thromb Haemost 2023; 21:2620-2622. [PMID: 37429507 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtha.2023.06.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Beverley J Hunt
- Thrombosis & Haemophilia Centre, Guy's & St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.
| | - Javier Corral
- Servicio de Hematología, Hospital Universitario Morales Meseguer, Centro Regional de Hemodonación, Universidad de Murcia, IMIB-Pascual Parrilla, CIBERER-ISCIII, Murcia, Spain
| | - Paolo Simioni
- General Internal Medicine, Thrombotic and Hemorrhagic Diseases Unit and Hemophilia Center, Department of Medicine-DIMED, University of Padua Medical School, Padua, Italy
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30
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Sekayan T, Simmons DH, von Drygalski A. Etranacogene dezaparvovec-drlb gene therapy for patients with hemophilia B (congenital factor IX deficiency). Expert Opin Biol Ther 2023; 23:1173-1184. [PMID: 37962325 DOI: 10.1080/14712598.2023.2282138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Congenital hemophilia B (HB) is an X-linked bleeding disorder resulting in Factor IX (FIX) deficiency and bleeding of variable severity. There is no cure for HB. Typical management consists of prophylactic intravenous (IV) recombinant or plasma-derived FIX infusions. Etranacogene dezaparvovec-drlb (Hemgenix, AMT-061) is an adeno-associated virus serotype 5 (AAV5) vector containing a codon-optimized Padua variant of the human F9 gene with a liver-specific promoter. Etranacogene dezaparvovec-drlb received FDA approval on 22 November 2022 for the treatment of HB in adult patients who use FIX prophylaxis therapy, have current or historical life-threatening hemorrhage, or have experienced repeated, serious spontaneous bleeding episodes. AREAS COVERED This drug profile discusses the safety and efficacy of etranacogene dezaparvovec-drlb in patients with HB. EXPERT OPINION Etranacogene dezaparvovec-drlb therapy results in stable and sustained expression of near-normal to normal FIX levels in patients with HB regardless of neutralizing antibodies to AAV5 up to a titer of 678. Its use has led to significant reduction in bleeding and FIX prophylaxis. Etranacogene dezaparvovec-drlb was well tolerated; however, 17% of patients required corticosteroid therapy for alanine aminotransferase (ALT) elevation. Etranacogene dezaparvovec-drlb therapy marks the beginning of an exciting era in HB treatment and opens questions regarding treatment longevity and long-term safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tro Sekayan
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | | | - Annette von Drygalski
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
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31
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Zoratto S, Heuser T, Friedbacher G, Pletzenauer R, Graninger M, Marchetti-Deschmann M, Weiss VU. Adeno-Associated Virus-like Particles' Response to pH Changes as Revealed by nES-DMA. Viruses 2023; 15:1361. [PMID: 37376661 DOI: 10.3390/v15061361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Gas-phase electrophoresis on a nano-Electrospray Gas-phase Electrophoretic Mobility Molecular Analyzer (nES GEMMA) separates single-charged, native analytes according to the surface-dry particle size. A volatile electrolyte, often ammonium acetate, is a prerequisite for electrospraying. Over the years, nES GEMMA has demonstrated its unique capability to investigate (bio-)nanoparticle containing samples in respect to composition, analyte size, size distribution, and particle numbers. Virus-like particles (VLPs), being non-infectious vectors, are often employed for gene therapy applications. Focusing on adeno-associated virus 8 (AAV8) based VLPs, we investigated the response of these bionanoparticles to pH changes via nES GEMMA as ammonium acetate is known to exhibit these changes upon electrospraying. Indeed, slight yet significant differences in VLP diameters in relation to pH changes are found between empty and DNA-cargo-filled assemblies. Additionally, filled VLPs exhibit aggregation in dependence on the applied electrolyte's pH, as corroborated by atomic force microscopy. In contrast, cryogenic transmission electron microscopy did not relate to changes in the overall particle size but in the substantial particle's shape based on cargo conditions. Overall, we conclude that for VLP characterization, the pH of the applied electrolyte solution has to be closely monitored, as variations in pH might account for drastic changes in particles and VLP behavior. Likewise, extrapolation of VLP behavior from empty to filled particles has to be carried out with caution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuele Zoratto
- Institute of Chemical Technologies and Analytics, TU Wien, A-1060 Vienna, Austria
| | - Thomas Heuser
- Electron Microscopy Facility, Vienna BioCenter Core Facilities GmbH, A-1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Gernot Friedbacher
- Institute of Chemical Technologies and Analytics, TU Wien, A-1060 Vienna, Austria
| | - Robert Pletzenauer
- Pharmaceutical Sciences, Baxalta Innovations GmbH (Part of Takeda), A-1221 Vienna, Austria
| | - Michael Graninger
- Pharmaceutical Sciences, Baxalta Innovations GmbH (Part of Takeda), A-1221 Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Victor U Weiss
- Institute of Chemical Technologies and Analytics, TU Wien, A-1060 Vienna, Austria
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32
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Santoscoy MC, Espinoza P, De La Cruz D, Mahamdeh M, Starr JR, Patel N, Maguire CA. An AAV capsid increases transduction of striatum and a ChAT promoter allows selective cholinergic neuron transduction. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2023; 29:532-540. [PMID: 37359416 PMCID: PMC10285237 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2023.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors are currently the most efficient option for intracranial gene therapies to treat neurodegenerative disease. Increased efficacy and safety will depend upon robust and specific expression of therapeutic genes into target cell-types within the human brain. In this study, we set out with two objectives: (1) to identify capsids with broader transduction of the striatum upon intracranial injection in mice and (2) to test a truncated human choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) promoter that would allow efficient and selective transduction of cholinergic neurons. We compared AAV9 and an engineered capsid, AAV-S, to mediate widespread reporter gene expression throughout the striatum. We observed that AAV-S transduced a significantly greater area of the injected hemisphere primarily in the rostral direction compared with AAV9 (CAG promoter). We tested AAV9 vectors packaging a reporter gene expression cassette driven by either the ChAT or CAG promoter. Specificity of transgene expression of ChAT neurons over other cells was 7-fold higher, and efficiency was 3-fold higher for the ChAT promoter compared with the CAG promoter. The AAV-ChAT transgene expression cassette should be a useful tool for the study of cholinergic neurons in mice, and the broader transduction area of AAV-S warrants further evaluation of this capsid.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel C. Santoscoy
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Molecular Neurogenetics Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA, USA
| | - Paula Espinoza
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Molecular Neurogenetics Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA, USA
| | - Demitri De La Cruz
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Molecular Neurogenetics Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA, USA
| | - Mohammed Mahamdeh
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA, USA
| | - Jacqueline R. Starr
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Nikita Patel
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Molecular Neurogenetics Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA, USA
| | - Casey A. Maguire
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Molecular Neurogenetics Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA, USA
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33
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Tang Q, Hu Z, Zhao J, Zhou T, Tang S, Wang P, Xiao R, Chen Y, Wu L, Zhou M, Liang D. CRISPR-Mediated In Situ Introduction or Integration of F9-Padua in Human iPSCs for Gene Therapy of Hemophilia B. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24109013. [PMID: 37240366 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24109013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Hemophilia B (HB) is an X-linked recessive disease caused by F9 gene mutation and functional coagulation factor IX (FIX) deficiency. Patients suffer from chronic arthritis and death threats owing to excessive bleeding. Compared with traditional treatments, gene therapy for HB has obvious advantages, especially when the hyperactive FIX mutant (FIX-Padua) is used. However, the mechanism by which FIX-Padua works remains ambiguous due to a lack of research models. Here, in situ introduction of F9-Padua mutation was performed in human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) via CRISPR/Cas9 and single-stranded oligodeoxynucleotides (ssODNs). The hyperactivity of FIX-Padua was confirmed to be 364% of the normal level in edited hiPSCs-derived hepatocytes, providing a reliable model for exploring the mechanism of the hyperactivity of FIX-Padua. Moreover, the F9 cDNA containing F9-Padua was integrated before the F9 initiation codon by CRISPR/Cas9 in iPSCs from an HB patient (HB-hiPSCs). Integrated HB-hiPSCs after off-target screening were differentiated into hepatocytes. The FIX activity in the supernatant of integrated hepatocytes showed a 4.2-fold increase and reached 63.64% of the normal level, suggesting a universal treatment for HB patients with various mutations in F9 exons. Overall, our study provides new approaches for the exploration and development of cell-based gene therapy for HB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiyu Tang
- Center for Medical Genetics, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha 410078, China
| | - Zhiqing Hu
- Center for Medical Genetics, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha 410078, China
| | - Junya Zhao
- Center for Medical Genetics, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha 410078, China
| | - Tao Zhou
- Center for Medical Genetics, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha 410078, China
| | - Shuqing Tang
- Center for Medical Genetics, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha 410078, China
| | - Peiyun Wang
- Center for Medical Genetics, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha 410078, China
| | - Rou Xiao
- Center for Medical Genetics, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha 410078, China
| | - Yan Chen
- Center for Medical Genetics, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha 410078, China
| | - Lingqian Wu
- Center for Medical Genetics, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha 410078, China
| | - Miaojin Zhou
- Center for Medical Genetics, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha 410078, China
| | - Desheng Liang
- Center for Medical Genetics, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha 410078, China
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34
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Sarafanov AG. Plasma Clearance of Coagulation Factor VIII and Extension of Its Half-Life for the Therapy of Hemophilia A: A Critical Review of the Current State of Research and Practice. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24108584. [PMID: 37239930 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24108584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2023] [Revised: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Factor VIII (FVIII) is an important component of blood coagulation as its congenital deficiency results in life-threatening bleeding. Current prophylactic therapy of the disease (hemophilia A) is based on 3-4 intravenous infusions of therapeutic FVIII per week. This poses a burden on patients, demanding reduction of infusion frequency by using FVIII with extended plasma half-life (EHL). Development of these products requires understanding FVIII plasma clearance mechanisms. This paper overviews (i) an up-to-date state of the research in this field and (ii) current EHL FVIII products, including recently approved efanesoctocog alfa, for which the plasma half-life exceeds a biochemical barrier posed by von Willebrand factor, complexed with FVIII in plasma, which results in ~1 per week infusion frequency. We focus on the EHL FVIII products' structure and function, in particular related to the known discrepancy in results of one-stage clotting (OC) and chromogenic substrate (CS) assays used to assign the products' potency, dosing, and for clinical monitoring in plasma. We suggest a possible root cause of these assays' discrepancy that is also pertinent to EHL factor IX variants used to treat hemophilia B. Finally, we discuss approaches in designing future EHL FVIII variants, including those to be used for hemophilia A gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrey G Sarafanov
- Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD 20993, USA
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