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Chehelgerdi M, Chehelgerdi M, Khorramian-Ghahfarokhi M, Shafieizadeh M, Mahmoudi E, Eskandari F, Rashidi M, Arshi A, Mokhtari-Farsani A. Comprehensive review of CRISPR-based gene editing: mechanisms, challenges, and applications in cancer therapy. Mol Cancer 2024; 23:9. [PMID: 38195537 PMCID: PMC10775503 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-023-01925-5] [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: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024] Open
Abstract
The CRISPR system is a revolutionary genome editing tool that has the potential to revolutionize the field of cancer research and therapy. The ability to precisely target and edit specific genetic mutations that drive the growth and spread of tumors has opened up new possibilities for the development of more effective and personalized cancer treatments. In this review, we will discuss the different CRISPR-based strategies that have been proposed for cancer therapy, including inactivating genes that drive tumor growth, enhancing the immune response to cancer cells, repairing genetic mutations that cause cancer, and delivering cancer-killing molecules directly to tumor cells. We will also summarize the current state of preclinical studies and clinical trials of CRISPR-based cancer therapy, highlighting the most promising results and the challenges that still need to be overcome. Safety and delivery are also important challenges for CRISPR-based cancer therapy to become a viable clinical option. We will discuss the challenges and limitations that need to be overcome, such as off-target effects, safety, and delivery to the tumor site. Finally, we will provide an overview of the current challenges and opportunities in the field of CRISPR-based cancer therapy and discuss future directions for research and development. The CRISPR system has the potential to change the landscape of cancer research, and this review aims to provide an overview of the current state of the field and the challenges that need to be overcome to realize this potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Chehelgerdi
- Novin Genome (NG) Lab, Research and Development Center for Biotechnology, Shahrekord, Iran.
- Young Researchers and Elite Club, Shahrekord Branch, Islamic Azad University, Shahrekord, Iran.
| | - Matin Chehelgerdi
- Novin Genome (NG) Lab, Research and Development Center for Biotechnology, Shahrekord, Iran
- Young Researchers and Elite Club, Shahrekord Branch, Islamic Azad University, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Milad Khorramian-Ghahfarokhi
- Division of Biotechnology, Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran
| | | | - Esmaeil Mahmoudi
- Young Researchers and Elite Club, Shahrekord Branch, Islamic Azad University, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Eskandari
- Faculty of Molecular and Cellular Biology -Genetics, Islamic Azad University of Falavarjan, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mohsen Rashidi
- Department Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
- The Health of Plant and Livestock Products Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Asghar Arshi
- Young Researchers and Elite Club, Najafabad Branch, Islamic Azad University, Najafabad, Iran
| | - Abbas Mokhtari-Farsani
- Novin Genome (NG) Lab, Research and Development Center for Biotechnology, Shahrekord, Iran
- Department of Biology, Nourdanesh Institute of Higher Education, Meymeh, Isfahan, Iran
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2
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Ali JH, Walter M. Combining old and new concepts in targeting telomerase for cancer therapy: transient, immediate, complete and combinatory attack (TICCA). Cancer Cell Int 2023; 23:197. [PMID: 37679807 PMCID: PMC10483736 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-023-03041-2] [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: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Telomerase can overcome replicative senescence by elongation of telomeres but is also a specific element in most cancer cells. It is expressed more vastly than any other tumor marker. Telomerase as a tumor target inducing replicative immortality can be overcome by only one other mechanism: alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT). This limits the probability to develop resistance to treatments. Moreover, telomerase inhibition offers some degree of specificity with a low risk of toxicity in normal cells. Nevertheless, only one telomerase antagonist reached late preclinical studies. The underlying causes, the pitfalls of telomerase-based therapies, and future chances based on recent technical advancements are summarized in this review. Based on new findings and approaches, we propose a concept how long-term survival in telomerase-based cancer therapies can be significantly improved: the TICCA (Transient Immediate Complete and Combinatory Attack) strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaber Haj Ali
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine, Clinical Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353, Berlin, Germany
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Universitätsmedizin Rostock, Ernst-Heydemann-Straße 6, 18057, Rostock, Germany
| | - Michael Walter
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Universitätsmedizin Rostock, Ernst-Heydemann-Straße 6, 18057, Rostock, Germany.
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He C, Jaffar Ali D, Qi Y, Li Y, Sun B, Liu R, Sun B, Xiao Z. Engineered extracellular vesicles mediated CRISPR-induced deficiency of IQGAP1/FOXM1 reverses sorafenib resistance in HCC by suppressing cancer stem cells. J Nanobiotechnology 2023; 21:154. [PMID: 37202772 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-023-01902-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sorafenib resistance poses therapeutic challenges in HCC treatment, in which cancer stem cells (CSCs) plays a crucial role. CRISPR/Cas9 can be utilized as a potential technique to overcome the drug resistance. However, a safe, efficient and target specific delivery of this platform remains challenging. Extracellular vesicles (EVs), the active components of cell to cell communication, hold promising benefits as delivery platform. RESULTS Herein we report the normal epithelial cell -derived EVs engineered with HN3(HLC9-EVs) show competing tumor targeting ability. Anchoring HN3 to the membrane of the EVs through LAMP2, drastically increased the specific homing of HLC9-EVs to GPC3+Huh-7 cancer cells rather than co-cultured GPC3-LO2 cells. Combination therapy of HCC with sorafenib and HLC9-EVs containing sgIF to silence IQGAP1 (protein responsible for reactivation of Akt/PI3K signaling in sorafenib resistance) and FOXM1 (self-renewal transcription factor in CSCs attributed to sorafenib resistance), exhibited effective synergistic anti-cancer effect both in vitro and in vivo. Our results also showed that disruption of IQGAP1/FOXM1 resulted in the reduction of CD133+ population that contribute to the stemness of liver cancer cells. CONCLUSION By reversing sorafenib resistance using combination therapeutic approach with engineered EVs encapsulated CRISPR/Cas9 and sorafenib, our study foreshadows a path for a better, accurate, reliable and successful anti-cancer therapy in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cong He
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210096, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China
| | - Doulathunnisa Jaffar Ali
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210096, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Yuhua Qi
- NHC Key Laboratory of Enteric Pathogenic Microbiology, Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanjing, 210009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yumin Li
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210096, Jiangsu, China
| | - Beicheng Sun
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, China
| | - Rui Liu
- Department of Genetic Engineering, College of Natural Science, University of Suwon, Kyunggi-Do, 445-743, Republic of Korea
| | - Bo Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210096, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Zhongdang Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210096, Jiangsu, China.
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4
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Jiang T, Gonzalez KM, Cordova LE, Lu J. Nanotechnology-enabled gene delivery for cancer and other genetic diseases. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2023; 20:523-540. [PMID: 37017558 PMCID: PMC10164135 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2023.2200246] [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: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/06/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite gene therapy is ideal for genetic abnormality-related diseases, the easy degradation, poor targeting, and inefficiency in entering targeted cells are plaguing the effective delivery of gene therapy. Viral and non-viral vectors have been used for delivering gene therapeutics in vivo by safeguarding nucleic acid agents to target cells and to reach the specific intracellular location. A variety of nanotechnology-enabled safe and efficient systems have been successfully developed to improve the targeting ability for effective therapeutic delivery of genetic drugs. AREAS COVERED In this review, we outline the multiple biological barriers associated with gene delivery process, and highlight recent advances to gene therapy strategy in vivo, including gene correction, gene silencing, gene activation and genome editing. We point out current developments and challenges exist of non-viral and viral vector systems in association with chemical and physical gene delivery technologies and their potential for the future. EXPERT OPINION This review focuses on the opportunities and challenges to various gene therapy strategy, with specific emphasis on overcoming the challenges through the development of biocompatibility and smart gene vectors for potential clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong Jiang
- Skaggs Pharmaceutical Sciences Center, Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, R. Ken Coit College of Pharmacy, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85721, United States
| | - Karina Marie Gonzalez
- Skaggs Pharmaceutical Sciences Center, Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, R. Ken Coit College of Pharmacy, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85721, United States
| | - Leyla Estrella Cordova
- Skaggs Pharmaceutical Sciences Center, Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, R. Ken Coit College of Pharmacy, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85721, United States
| | - Jianqin Lu
- Skaggs Pharmaceutical Sciences Center, Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, R. Ken Coit College of Pharmacy, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85721, United States
- NCI-designated University of Arizona Comprehensive Cancer Center, Tucson, Arizona, 85721, United States
- BIO5 Institute, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85721, United States
- Southwest Environmental Health Sciences Center, The University of Arizona, Tucson, 85721, United States
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5
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Yaghoobi A, Nazerian Y, Meymand AZ, Ansari A, Nazerian A, Niknejad H. Hypoxia-sensitive miRNA regulation via CRISPR/dCas9 loaded in hybrid exosomes: A novel strategy to improve embryo implantation and prevent placental insufficiency during pregnancy. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 10:1082657. [PMID: 36704201 PMCID: PMC9871368 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.1082657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Assisted reproductive techniques as a new regenerative medicine approach have significantly contributed to solving infertility problems that affect approximately 15% of couples worldwide. However, the success rate of an in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycle remains only about 20%-30%, and 75% of these losses are due to implantation failure (the crucial rate-limiting step of gestation). Implantation failure and abnormal placenta formation are mainly caused by defective adhesion, invasion, and angiogenesis. Placental insufficiency endangers both the mother's and the fetus's health. Therefore, we suggested a novel treatment strategy to improve endometrial receptivity and implantation success rate. In this strategy, regulating mir-30d expression as an upstream transcriptomic modifier of the embryo implantation results in modified expression of the involved genes in embryonic adhesion, invasion, and angiogenesis and consequently impedes implantation failure. For this purpose, "scaffold/matrix attachment regions (S/MARs)" are employed as non-viral episomal vectors, transfecting into trophoblasts by exosome-liposome hybrid carriers. These vectors comprise CRISPR/dCas9 with a guide RNA to exclusively induce miR-30d gene expression in hypoxic stress conditions. In order to avoid concerns about the fetus's genetic manipulation, our vector would be transfected specifically into the trophoblast layer of the blastocyst via binding to trophoblast Erb-B4 receptors without entering the inner cell mass. Additionally, S/MAR episomal vectors do not integrate with the original cell DNA. As an on/off regulatory switch, a hypoxia-sensitive promoter (HRE) is localized upstream of dCas9. The miR-30d expression increases before and during the implantation and placental insufficiency conditions and is extinguished after hypoxia elimination. This hypothesis emphasizes that improving the adhesion, invasion, and angiogenesis in the uterine microenvironment during pregnancy will result in increased implantation success and reduced placental insufficiency, as a new insight in translational medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alireza Yaghoobi
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Yasaman Nazerian
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Arman Zeinaddini Meymand
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Ansari
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Hassan Niknejad
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran,*Correspondence: Hassan Niknejad,
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Hayat U, Siddiqui AA, Farhan ML, Haris A, Hameed N. Genome Editing and Fatty Liver. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2023; 1396:191-206. [DOI: 10.1007/978-981-19-5642-3_13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
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7
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Zhang X, Hu Y, Hao D, Li T, Jia Y, Hu W, Xu Z. New strategies for the treatment of intervertebral disc degeneration: cell, exosome, gene, and tissue engineering. Am J Transl Res 2022; 14:8031-8048. [PMID: 36505274 PMCID: PMC9730054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Low back pain (LBP) caused by intervertebral disc (IVD) generation (IVDD) has always been an important problem that cannot be ignored. Traditional therapies have many deep-rooted and intractable complications that promote their treatment mode transfer to new therapies. This article mainly summarizes the shortcomings of traditional treatment methods and analyzes the research status and future development direction of IVDD treatment. We outlined the most promising IVDD therapies, including cell, exosome, gene, and tissue engineering therapy, especially tissue engineering therapy, which runs through the whole process of other therapies. In addition, the article focuses on the cellular, animal, and preclinical challenges faced by each therapeutic approach, as well as their respective advantages and disadvantages, to provide better ideas for relieving the IVDD patients' pain through new treatment methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaobo Zhang
- Department of Spine Surgery, Honghui Hospital, Xi’an Jiao Tong UniversityXi’an 710054, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yicun Hu
- Department of Orthopedics, Lanzhou University Second HospitalLanzhou 730000, Gansu, China
| | - Dingjun Hao
- Department of Spine Surgery, Honghui Hospital, Xi’an Jiao Tong UniversityXi’an 710054, Shaanxi, China
| | - Tao Li
- Department of Spine Surgery, Honghui Hospital, Xi’an Jiao Tong UniversityXi’an 710054, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yuhan Jia
- Department of Spine Surgery, Honghui Hospital, Xi’an Jiao Tong UniversityXi’an 710054, Shaanxi, China
| | - Wei Hu
- Department of Spine Surgery, Honghui Hospital, Xi’an Jiao Tong UniversityXi’an 710054, Shaanxi, China
| | - Zhengwei Xu
- Department of Spine Surgery, Honghui Hospital, Xi’an Jiao Tong UniversityXi’an 710054, Shaanxi, China
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8
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Karn V, Sandhya S, Hsu W, Parashar D, Singh HN, Jha NK, Gupta S, Dubey NK, Kumar S. CRISPR/Cas9 system in breast cancer therapy: advancement, limitations and future scope. Cancer Cell Int 2022; 22:234. [PMID: 35879772 PMCID: PMC9316746 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-022-02654-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer is one of the major causes of mortality worldwide, therefore it is considered a major health concern. Breast cancer is the most frequent type of cancer which affects women on a global scale. Various current treatment strategies have been implicated for breast cancer therapy that includes surgical removal, radiation therapy, hormonal therapy, chemotherapy, and targeted biological therapy. However, constant effort is being made to introduce novel therapies with minimal toxicity. Gene therapy is one of the promising tools, to rectify defective genes and cure various cancers. In recent years, a novel genome engineering technology, namely the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR)-associated protein-9 (Cas9) has emerged as a gene-editing tool and transformed genome-editing techniques in a wide range of biological domains including human cancer research and gene therapy. This could be attributed to its versatile characteristics such as high specificity, precision, time-saving and cost-effective methodologies with minimal risk. In the present review, we highlight the role of CRISPR/Cas9 as a targeted therapy to tackle drug resistance, improve immunotherapy for breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vamika Karn
- Department of Biotechnology, Amity University, Mumbai, 410221, India
| | - Sandhya Sandhya
- Division of Oncology Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Wayne Hsu
- Division of General Surgery, Department of Surgery, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei, 110, Taiwan
| | - Deepak Parashar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, 53226, USA
| | - Himanshu Narayan Singh
- Department of System Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Centre, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Niraj Kumar Jha
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Engineering & Technology (SET), Sharda University, Greater Noida, 201310, India.,Department of Biotechnology, School of Applied & Life Sciences (SALS), Uttaranchal University, Dehradun, 248007, India.,Department of Biotechnology Engineering and Food Technology, Chandigarh University, Mohali, 140413, India
| | - Saurabh Gupta
- Department of Biotechnology, GLA University, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Navneet Kumar Dubey
- Victory Biotechnology Co., Ltd., Taipei, 114757, Taiwan. .,ShiNeo Technology Co., Ltd., New Taipei City, 24262, Taiwan.
| | - Sanjay Kumar
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Basic Sciences and Research, Sharda University, Greater Noida, 201310, India.
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9
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Saiyed AN, Vasavada AR, Johar SRK. Recent trends in miRNA therapeutics and the application of plant miRNA for prevention and treatment of human diseases. FUTURE JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES 2022; 8:24. [PMID: 35382490 PMCID: PMC8972743 DOI: 10.1186/s43094-022-00413-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Researchers now have a new avenue to investigate when it comes to miRNA-based therapeutics. miRNAs have the potential to be valuable biomarkers for disease detection. Variations in miRNA levels may be able to predict changes in normal physiological processes. At the epigenetic level, miRNA has been identified as a promising candidate for distinguishing and treating various diseases and defects. Main body In recent pharmacology, plants miRNA-based drugs have demonstrated a potential role in drug therapeutics. The purpose of this review paper is to discuss miRNA-based therapeutics, the role of miRNA in pharmacoepigenetics modulations, plant miRNA inter-kingdom regulation, and the therapeutic value and application of plant miRNA for cross-kingdom approaches. Target prediction and complementarity with host genes, as well as cross-kingdom gene interactions with plant miRNAs, are also revealed by bioinformatics research. We also show how plant miRNA can be transmitted from one species to another by crossing kingdom boundaries in this review. Despite several unidentified barriers to plant miRNA cross-transfer, plant miRNA-based gene regulation in trans-kingdom gene regulation may soon be valued as a possible approach in plant-based drug therapeutics. Conclusion This review summarised the biochemical synthesis of miRNAs, pharmacoepigenetics, drug therapeutics and miRNA transkingdom transfer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atiyabanu N. Saiyed
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Iladevi Cataract and IOL Research Centre, Ahmedabad, Gujarat India
- Ph.D. scholar of Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka India
| | - Abhay R. Vasavada
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Iladevi Cataract and IOL Research Centre, Ahmedabad, Gujarat India
| | - S. R. Kaid Johar
- Department of Zoology, BMTC, Human Genetics, USSC, Gujarat University, Ahmedabad, Gujarat India
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10
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Rasul MF, Hussen BM, Salihi A, Ismael BS, Jalal PJ, Zanichelli A, Jamali E, Baniahmad A, Ghafouri-Fard S, Basiri A, Taheri M. Strategies to overcome the main challenges of the use of CRISPR/Cas9 as a replacement for cancer therapy. Mol Cancer 2022; 21:64. [PMID: 35241090 PMCID: PMC8892709 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-021-01487-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
CRISPR/Cas9 (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats-associated protein 9) shows the opportunity to treat a diverse array of untreated various genetic and complicated disorders. Therapeutic genome editing processes that target disease-causing genes or mutant genes have been greatly accelerated in recent years as a consequence of improvements in sequence-specific nuclease technology. However, the therapeutic promise of genome editing has yet to be explored entirely, many challenges persist that increase the risk of further mutations. Here, we highlighted the main challenges facing CRISPR/Cas9-based treatments and proposed strategies to overcome these limitations, for further enhancing this revolutionary novel therapeutics to improve long-term treatment outcome human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Fatih Rasul
- Department of Medical Analysis, Faculty of Applied Science, Tishk International University, Erbil, Kurdistan Region, Iraq
| | - Bashdar Mahmud Hussen
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, Hawler Medical University, Kurdistan region, Erbil, Iraq.,Center of Research and Strategic Studies, Lebanese French University, Erbil, Iraq
| | - Abbas Salihi
- Center of Research and Strategic Studies, Lebanese French University, Erbil, Iraq.,Department of Biology, College of Science, Salahaddin University-Erbil, Erbil, Iraq
| | - Bnar Saleh Ismael
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Hawler Medical University, Kurdistan region, Erbil, Iraq
| | - Paywast Jamal Jalal
- Biology Department, College of Science, University of Sulaimani, Sulaimani, Iraq
| | - Anna Zanichelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Westminster, London, UK
| | - Elena Jamali
- Department of Pathology, Loghman Hakim Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Aria Baniahmad
- Institute of Human Genetics, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Soudeh Ghafouri-Fard
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abbas Basiri
- Urology and Nephrology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Taheri
- Institute of Human Genetics, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany. .,Men's Health and Reproductive Health Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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11
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Chen S, Jiao Y, Pan F, Guan Z, Cheng SH, Sun D. Knock-in of a Large Reporter Gene via the High-Throughput Microinjection of the CRISPR/Cas9 System. IEEE Trans Biomed Eng 2022; 69:2524-2532. [PMID: 35133958 DOI: 10.1109/tbme.2022.3149530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The non-viral delivery of the prokaryotic clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-associated protein 9 (Cas9) nuclease system provides promising solutions for gene therapy. However, traditional chemical and physical delivery approaches for gene knock-in are confronted by significant challenges to overcome the draw-backs of low efficiency and high toxicity. An alternative method for directly delivering CRISPR components into single cells is microinjection. Here, we present the high-throughput robotic microinjection of CRISPR machinery plasmids to produce gene insertions. We demonstrate that the microinjection of CRISPR/Cas9 with an enhanced green fluorescent protein (eGFP) donor template into single HepG2 cells can achieve re-porter gene knock-in targeting the adeno-associated virus site 1 locus. Homology-directed repair-mediated knock-in can be ob-served with an efficiency of 41%. Assessment via T7E1 assay indicates that the eGFP knock-in cells exhibit no detectable changes at potential off-target sites. A case study of injecting the eGFP knock-in cells into zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryos to form an in vivo tumor model is conducted. Results demonstrate the efficiency of combining microinjection with the CRISPR/Cas9 system in achieving gene knock-in.
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12
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Editing SOX Genes by CRISPR-Cas: Current Insights and Future Perspectives. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222111321. [PMID: 34768751 PMCID: PMC8583549 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Revised: 10/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR) and its associated proteins (Cas) is an adaptive immune system in archaea and most bacteria. By repurposing these systems for use in eukaryote cells, a substantial revolution has arisen in the genome engineering field. In recent years, CRISPR-Cas technology was rapidly developed and different types of DNA or RNA sequence editors, gene activator or repressor, and epigenome modulators established. The versatility and feasibility of CRISPR-Cas technology has introduced this system as the most suitable tool for discovering and studying the mechanism of specific genes and also for generating appropriate cell and animal models. SOX genes play crucial roles in development processes and stemness. To elucidate the exact roles of SOX factors and their partners in tissue hemostasis and cell regeneration, generating appropriate in vitro and in vivo models is crucial. In line with these premises, CRISPR-Cas technology is a promising tool for studying different family members of SOX transcription factors. In this review, we aim to highlight the importance of CRISPR-Cas and summarize the applications of this novel, promising technology in studying and decoding the function of different members of the SOX gene family.
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Rocha LFM, Braga LAM, Mota FB. Gene Editing for Treatment and Prevention of Human Diseases: A Global Survey of Gene Editing-Related Researchers. Hum Gene Ther 2021; 31:852-862. [PMID: 32718240 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2020.136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In the next decades, gene editing technologies are expected to be used in the treatment and prevention of human diseases. Yet, the future uses of gene editing in medicine are still unknown, including its applicability and effectiveness to the treatment and prevention of infectious diseases, cancer, and monogenic and polygenic hereditary diseases. This study aims to address this gap by analyzing the views of over 1,000 gene editing-related researchers from all over the world. Some of our survey results show that, in the next 10 years, DNA double-strand breaks are expected to be the main method for gene editing, and CRISPR-Cas systems to be the mainstream programmable nuclease. In the same period, gene editing is expected to have more applicability and effectiveness to treat and prevent infectious diseases and cancer. Off-targeting mutations, reaching therapeutic levels of editing efficiency, difficulties in targeting specific tissues in vivo, and regulatory and ethical challenges are among the most relevant factors that might hamper the use of gene editing in humans. In conclusion, our results suggest that gene editing might become a reality to the treatment and prevention of a variety of human diseases in the coming 10 years. If the future confirms these researchers' expectations, gene editing could change the way medicine, health systems, and public health deal with the treatment and prevention of human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Fabio Batista Mota
- Center for Strategic Studies, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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14
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Karpe Y, Chen Z, Li XJ. Stem Cell Models and Gene Targeting for Human Motor Neuron Diseases. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:565. [PMID: 34204831 PMCID: PMC8231537 DOI: 10.3390/ph14060565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Revised: 06/05/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Motor neurons are large projection neurons classified into upper and lower motor neurons responsible for controlling the movement of muscles. Degeneration of motor neurons results in progressive muscle weakness, which underlies several debilitating neurological disorders including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), hereditary spastic paraplegias (HSP), and spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). With the development of induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technology, human iPSCs can be derived from patients and further differentiated into motor neurons. Motor neuron disease models can also be generated by genetically modifying human pluripotent stem cells. The efficiency of gene targeting in human cells had been very low, but is greatly improved with recent gene editing technologies such as zinc-finger nucleases (ZFN), transcription activator-like effector nucleases (TALEN), and CRISPR-Cas9. The combination of human stem cell-based models and gene editing tools provides unique paradigms to dissect pathogenic mechanisms and to explore therapeutics for these devastating diseases. Owing to the critical role of several genes in the etiology of motor neuron diseases, targeted gene therapies have been developed, including antisense oligonucleotides, viral-based gene delivery, and in situ gene editing. This review summarizes recent advancements in these areas and discusses future challenges toward the development of transformative medicines for motor neuron diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yashashree Karpe
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Illinois College of Medicine, Rockford, IL 61107, USA; (Y.K.); (Z.C.)
| | - Zhenyu Chen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Illinois College of Medicine, Rockford, IL 61107, USA; (Y.K.); (Z.C.)
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60607, USA
| | - Xue-Jun Li
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Illinois College of Medicine, Rockford, IL 61107, USA; (Y.K.); (Z.C.)
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60607, USA
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15
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Deepak Singh D, Han I, Choi EH, Yadav DK. CRISPR/Cas9 based genome editing for targeted transcriptional control in triple-negative breast cancer. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2021; 19:2384-2397. [PMID: 34025931 PMCID: PMC8120801 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2021.04.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is the most common type of cancer in women at the global level and the highest mortality rate has been observed with triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Accumulation of genetic lesions an aberrant gene expression and protein degradation are considered to underlie the onset of tumorigenesis and metastasis. Therefore, the challenge to identify the genes and molecules that could be potentially used as potent biomarkers for personalized medicine against TNBC with minimal or no associated side effects. Discovery of the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR associated protein 9 (Cas9) arrangement and an increasing repertoire of its new variants has provided a much-needed fillip towards editing TNBC genomes. In this review, we discuss the CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing, CRISPR Technology for diagnosis of (Triple-negative breast cancer) TNBC, Drug Resistance, and potential applications of CRISPR/Cas9 and its variants in deciphering or engineering intricate molecular and epigenetic mechanisms associated with TNBC. Furthermore, we have also explored the TNBC and CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing potential for repairing, genetic modifications in TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Desh Deepak Singh
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Rajasthan, Jaipur, India
| | - Ihn Han
- Plasma Bioscience Research Center, Applied Plasma Medicine Center, Department of Electrical & Biological Physics, Kwangwoon University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun-Ha Choi
- Plasma Bioscience Research Center, Applied Plasma Medicine Center, Department of Electrical & Biological Physics, Kwangwoon University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Dharmendra Kumar Yadav
- College of Pharmacy, Gachon University of Medicine and Science, Hambakmoeiro 191, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon City, Republic of Korea
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16
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Nam GH, Choi Y, Kim GB, Kim S, Kim SA, Kim IS. Emerging Prospects of Exosomes for Cancer Treatment: From Conventional Therapy to Immunotherapy. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2020; 32:e2002440. [PMID: 33015883 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202002440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 147] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2020] [Revised: 05/29/2020] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Exosomes are a class of extracellular vesicles of around 100 nm in diameter that are secreted by most cells and contain various bioactive molecules reflecting their cellular origin and mediate intercellular communication. Studies of these exosomal features in tumor pathogenesis have led to the development of therapeutic and diagnostic approaches using exosomes for cancer therapy. Exosomes have many advantages for conveying therapeutic agents such as small interfering RNAs, microRNAs, membrane-associated proteins, and chemotherapeutic compounds; thus, they are considered a prime candidate as a delivery tool for cancer treatment. Since exosomes also provide an optimal microenvironment for the effective function of immunomodulatory factors, exosomes harboring bioactive molecules have been bioengineered as cancer immunotherapies that can effectively activate each stage of the cancer immunity cycle to successfully elicit cancer-specific immunity. This review discusses the advantages of exosomes for treating cancer and the challenges that must be overcome for their successful clinical development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gi-Hoon Nam
- Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoonjeong Choi
- Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
- KU-KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, 145 Anam-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Gi Beom Kim
- Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
- KU-KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, 145 Anam-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Seohyun Kim
- Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
- KU-KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, 145 Anam-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong A Kim
- Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
- KU-KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, 145 Anam-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - In-San Kim
- Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
- KU-KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, 145 Anam-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
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Kim U, Kim N, Shin HY. Modeling Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) Using "Good-Fit" Genome-Editing Tools. Cells 2020; 9:cells9122572. [PMID: 33271878 PMCID: PMC7760008 DOI: 10.3390/cells9122572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Revised: 11/27/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which affects both adults and children, is the most common liver disorder worldwide. NAFLD is characterized by excess fat accumulation in the liver in the absence of significant alcohol use. NAFLD is strongly associated with obesity, insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, as well as specific genetic polymorphisms. Severe NAFLD cases can further progress to cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), or cardiovascular complications. Here, we describe the pathophysiological features and critical genetic variants associated with NAFLD. Recent advances in genome-engineering technology have provided a new opportunity to generate in vitro and in vivo models that reflect the genetic abnormalities of NAFLD. We review the currently developed NAFLD models generated using clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats/CRISPR-associated protein 9 (CRISPR/Cas9) genome editing. We further discuss unique features of CRISPR/Cas9 and Cas9 variants, including base editors and prime editor, that are useful for replicating genetic features specific to NAFLD. We also compare advantages and limitations of currently available methods for delivering genome-editing tools necessary for optimal genome editing. This review should provide helpful guidance for selecting “good fit” genome-editing tools and appropriate gene-delivery methods for the successful development of NAFLD models and clinical therapeutics.
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18
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Ferreira D, Fontinha D, Martins C, Pires D, Fernandes AR, Baptista PV. Gold Nanoparticles for Vectorization of Nucleic Acids for Cancer Therapeutics. Molecules 2020; 25:E3489. [PMID: 32751935 PMCID: PMC7435825 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25153489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Revised: 07/25/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer remains a complex medical challenge and one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Nanomedicines have been proposed as innovative platforms to tackle these complex diseases, where the combination of several treatment strategies might enhance therapy success. Among these nanomedicines, nanoparticle mediated delivery of nucleic acids has been put forward as key instrument to modulate gene expression, be it targeted gene silencing, interference RNA mechanisms and/or gene edition. These novel delivery systems have strongly relied on nanoparticles and, in particular, gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have paved the way for efficient delivery systems due to the possibility to fine-tune their size, shape and surface properties, coupled to the ease of functionalization with different biomolecules. Herein, we shall address the different molecular tools for modulation of expression of oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes and discuss the state-of-the-art of AuNP functionalization for nucleic acid delivery both in vitro and in vivo models. Furthermore, we shall highlight the clinical applications of these spherical AuNP based conjugates for gene delivery, current challenges, and future perspectives in nanomedicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Ferreira
- UCIBIO, Dept. of Life Sciences, Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Campus de Caparica, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal
| | - David Fontinha
- UCIBIO, Dept. of Life Sciences, Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Campus de Caparica, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal
| | - Catarina Martins
- UCIBIO, Dept. of Life Sciences, Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Campus de Caparica, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal
| | - David Pires
- UCIBIO, Dept. of Life Sciences, Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Campus de Caparica, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal
| | - Alexandra R Fernandes
- UCIBIO, Dept. of Life Sciences, Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Campus de Caparica, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal
| | - Pedro V Baptista
- UCIBIO, Dept. of Life Sciences, Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Campus de Caparica, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal
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19
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He C, Jaffar Ali D, Li Y, Zhu Y, Sun B, Xiao Z. Engineering of HN3 increases the tumor targeting specificity of exosomes and upgrade the anti-tumor effect of sorafenib on HuH-7 cells. PeerJ 2020; 8:e9524. [PMID: 33062407 PMCID: PMC7527773 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.9524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Accepted: 06/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Safe, efficient and cancer cell targeted delivery of CRISPR/Cas9 is important to increase the effectiveness of available cancer treatments. Although cancer derived exosomes offer significant advantages, the fact that it carries cancer related/inducing signaling molecules impedes them from being used as a reliable drug delivery vehicle. In this study, we report that normal epithelial cell-derived exosomes engineered to have HN3 (HN3LC9-293exo), target tumor cells as efficiently as that of the cancer cell-derived exosomes (C9HuH-7exo). HN3LC9-293exo were quickly absorbed by the recipient cancer cell in vitro. Anchoring HN3 to the membrane of the exosomes using LAMP2, made HN3LC9-293exo to specifically enter the GPC3+ HuH-7 cancer cells than the GPC3− LO2 cells in a co-culture model. Further, sgIQ 1.1 plasmids were loaded to exosomes and surprisingly, in combination with sorafenib, synergistic anti-proliferative and apoptotic effect of loaded HN3LC9-293exo was more than the loaded C9HuH-7exo. While cancer-derived exosomes might induce the drug resistance and tumor progression, normal HEK-293 cells-derived exosomes with modifications for precise cancer cell targeting like HN3LC9-293exo can act as better, safe and natural delivery systems to improve the efficacy of the cancer treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cong He
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Doulathunnisa Jaffar Ali
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.,Key Laboratory for Developmental Genes and Human Disease, Ministry of Education, Institute of Life Sciences, Jiangsu Province High-Tech Key Laboratory for Bio-Medical Research, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yumin Li
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yanliang Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Bo Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhongdang Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
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20
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Ligat G, Goto K, Verrier E, Baumert TF. Targeting Viral cccDNA for Cure of Chronic Hepatitis B. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 19:235-244. [PMID: 36034467 PMCID: PMC7613435 DOI: 10.1007/s11901-020-00534-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of Review Chronic hepatitis B (CHB), caused by hepatitis B virus (HBV), is a major cause of advanced liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) worldwide. HBV replication is characterized by the synthesis of covalently closed circular (ccc) DNA which is not targeted by antiviral nucleos(t)ide analogues (NUCs) the key modality of standard of care. While HBV replication is successfully suppressed in treated patients, they remain at risk for developing HCC. While functional cure, characterized by loss of HBsAg, is the first goal of novel antiviral therapies, curative treatments eliminating cccDNA remain the ultimate goal. This review summarizes recent advances in the discovery and development of novel therapeutic strategies and their impact on cccDNA biology. Recent Findings Within the last decade, substantial progress has been made in the understanding of cccDNA biology including the discovery of host dependency factors, epigenetic regulation of cccDNA transcription and immune-mediated degradation. Several approaches targeting cccDNA either in a direct or indirect manner are currently at the stage of discovery, preclinical or early clinical development. Examples include genome-editing approaches, strategies targeting host dependency factors or epigenetic gene regulation, nucleocapsid modulators and immune-mediated degradation. Summary While direct-targeting cccDNA strategies are still largely at the preclinical stage of development, capsid assembly modulators and immune-based approaches have reached the clinical phase. Clinical trials are ongoing to assess their efficacy and safety in patients including their impact on viral cccDNA. Combination therapies provide additional opportunities to overcome current limitations of individual approaches.
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21
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Mohammadinejad R, Biagioni A, Arunkumar G, Shapiro R, Chang KC, Sedeeq M, Taiyab A, Hashemabadi M, Pardakhty A, Mandegary A, Thiery JP, Aref AR, Azimi I. EMT signaling: potential contribution of CRISPR/Cas gene editing. Cell Mol Life Sci 2020; 77:2701-2722. [PMID: 32008085 PMCID: PMC11104910 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-020-03449-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2019] [Revised: 12/24/2019] [Accepted: 01/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a complex plastic and reversible cellular process that has critical roles in diverse physiological and pathological phenomena. EMT is involved in embryonic development, organogenesis and tissue repair, as well as in fibrosis, cancer metastasis and drug resistance. In recent years, the ability to edit the genome using the clustered regularly interspaced palindromic repeats (CRISPR) and associated protein (Cas) system has greatly contributed to identify or validate critical genes in pathway signaling. This review delineates the complex EMT networks and discusses recent studies that have used CRISPR/Cas technology to further advance our understanding of the EMT process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reza Mohammadinejad
- Pharmaceutics Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Alessio Biagioni
- Section of Experimental Pathology and Oncology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Ganesan Arunkumar
- Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Rebecca Shapiro
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Kun-Che Chang
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, 94303, USA
| | - Mohammed Sedeeq
- Division of Pharmacy, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Aftab Taiyab
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4L8, Canada
| | - Mohammad Hashemabadi
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Shahid Bahonar University, Kerman, Iran
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abbas Pardakhty
- Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Ali Mandegary
- Physiology Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology and Department of Toxicology & Pharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Jean-Paul Thiery
- Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health, Guangdong Laboratory, Guangzhou, China
| | - Amir Reza Aref
- Department of Medical Oncology, Belfer Center for Applied Cancer Science, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215, USA.
| | - Iman Azimi
- Division of Pharmacy, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia.
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Abstract
Gastric cancer is an active topic of clinical and basic research due to high morbidity and mortality. To date, gastrectomy and chemotherapy are the only therapeutic options for gastric cancer patients, but drug resistance, either acquired or primary, is the main cause for treatment failure. Differences in development and response to cancer treatments have been observed among ethnically diverse GC patient populations. In spite of major incidence, GC Asian patients have a significantly better prognosis and response to treatments than Caucasian ones due to genetic discordances between the two populations. Gene therapy could be an alternative strategy to overcome such issues and especially CRISPR/Cas9 represents one of the most intriguing gene-editing system. Thus, in this review article, we want to provide an update on the currently used therapies for the treatment of advanced GC. Graphical abstract.
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Biagioni A, Laurenzana A, Chillà A, Del Rosso M, Andreucci E, Poteti M, Bani D, Guasti D, Fibbi G, Margheri F. uPAR Knockout Results in a Deep Glycolytic and OXPHOS Reprogramming in Melanoma and Colon Carcinoma Cell Lines. Cells 2020; 9:E308. [PMID: 32012858 PMCID: PMC7072355 DOI: 10.3390/cells9020308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Revised: 01/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Urokinase Plasminogen Activator (uPA) Receptor (uPAR) is a well-known GPI-anchored three-domain membrane protein with pro-tumor roles largely shown in all the malignant tumors where it is over-expressed. Here we have exploited the Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR)/Cas9 gene knock out approach to investigate its role in the oxidative metabolism in human melanoma and colon cancer as the consequences of its irreversible loss. Knocking out PLAUR, a uPAR-encoding gene, in A375p, A375M6 and HCT116, which are two human melanoma and a colon carcinoma, respectively, we have observed an increased number of mitochondria in the two melanoma cell lines, while we evidenced an immature biogenesis of mitochondria in the colon carcinoma culture. Such biological diversity is, however, reflected in a significant enhancement of the mitochondrial spare respiratory capacity, fueled by an increased expression of GLS2, and in a decreased glycolysis paired with an increased secretion of lactate by all uPAR KO cells. We speculated that this discrepancy might be explained by an impaired ratio between LDHA and LDHB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessio Biagioni
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale G.B. Morgagni 50, 50134 Firenze, Italy; (A.L.); (A.C.); (M.D.R.); (E.A.); (M.P.); (G.F.); (F.M.)
| | - Anna Laurenzana
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale G.B. Morgagni 50, 50134 Firenze, Italy; (A.L.); (A.C.); (M.D.R.); (E.A.); (M.P.); (G.F.); (F.M.)
| | - Anastasia Chillà
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale G.B. Morgagni 50, 50134 Firenze, Italy; (A.L.); (A.C.); (M.D.R.); (E.A.); (M.P.); (G.F.); (F.M.)
| | - Mario Del Rosso
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale G.B. Morgagni 50, 50134 Firenze, Italy; (A.L.); (A.C.); (M.D.R.); (E.A.); (M.P.); (G.F.); (F.M.)
| | - Elena Andreucci
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale G.B. Morgagni 50, 50134 Firenze, Italy; (A.L.); (A.C.); (M.D.R.); (E.A.); (M.P.); (G.F.); (F.M.)
| | - Martina Poteti
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale G.B. Morgagni 50, 50134 Firenze, Italy; (A.L.); (A.C.); (M.D.R.); (E.A.); (M.P.); (G.F.); (F.M.)
| | - Daniele Bani
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Firenze, Italy; (D.B.); (D.G.)
| | - Daniele Guasti
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Firenze, Italy; (D.B.); (D.G.)
| | - Gabriella Fibbi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale G.B. Morgagni 50, 50134 Firenze, Italy; (A.L.); (A.C.); (M.D.R.); (E.A.); (M.P.); (G.F.); (F.M.)
| | - Francesca Margheri
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale G.B. Morgagni 50, 50134 Firenze, Italy; (A.L.); (A.C.); (M.D.R.); (E.A.); (M.P.); (G.F.); (F.M.)
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Li H, Yang Y, Hong W, Huang M, Wu M, Zhao X. Applications of genome editing technology in the targeted therapy of human diseases: mechanisms, advances and prospects. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2020; 5:1. [PMID: 32296011 PMCID: PMC6946647 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-019-0089-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 857] [Impact Index Per Article: 214.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2019] [Revised: 09/21/2019] [Accepted: 09/21/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Based on engineered or bacterial nucleases, the development of genome editing technologies has opened up the possibility of directly targeting and modifying genomic sequences in almost all eukaryotic cells. Genome editing has extended our ability to elucidate the contribution of genetics to disease by promoting the creation of more accurate cellular and animal models of pathological processes and has begun to show extraordinary potential in a variety of fields, ranging from basic research to applied biotechnology and biomedical research. Recent progress in developing programmable nucleases, such as zinc-finger nucleases (ZFNs), transcription activator-like effector nucleases (TALENs) and clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR)-Cas-associated nucleases, has greatly expedited the progress of gene editing from concept to clinical practice. Here, we review recent advances of the three major genome editing technologies (ZFNs, TALENs, and CRISPR/Cas9) and discuss the applications of their derivative reagents as gene editing tools in various human diseases and potential future therapies, focusing on eukaryotic cells and animal models. Finally, we provide an overview of the clinical trials applying genome editing platforms for disease treatment and some of the challenges in the implementation of this technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyi Li
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Development and Related Disease of Women and Children Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, P. R. China
| | - Yang Yang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Development and Related Disease of Women and Children Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, P. R. China
| | - Weiqi Hong
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 17, Block 3, Southern Renmin Road, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P. R. China
| | - Mengyuan Huang
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 17, Block 3, Southern Renmin Road, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P. R. China
| | - Min Wu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND, 58203, USA.
| | - Xia Zhao
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Development and Related Disease of Women and Children Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, P. R. China.
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Biagioni A, Laurenzana A, Margheri F, Chillà A, Fibbi G, Del Rosso M. Publisher Correction to: delivery systems of CRISPR/Cas9-based cancer gene therapy. J Biol Eng 2019; 13:37. [PMID: 31068977 PMCID: PMC6495516 DOI: 10.1186/s13036-019-0169-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2019] [Accepted: 04/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
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Wilson J. Treating genes and patients. Gene Ther 2019; 27:109-110. [PMID: 31776472 DOI: 10.1038/s41434-019-0111-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2019] [Revised: 10/27/2019] [Accepted: 11/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- John Wilson
- Cystic Fibrosis Service, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Australia. .,Department of Medicine, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia.
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Liu H, Li Z, Huo S, Wei Q, Ge L. Induction of G0/G1 phase arrest and apoptosis by CRISPR/Cas9-mediated knockout of CDK2 in A375 melanocytes. Mol Clin Oncol 2019; 12:9-14. [PMID: 31832188 PMCID: PMC6904871 DOI: 10.3892/mco.2019.1952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2019] [Accepted: 07/03/2019] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Cutaneous melanoma is one of the most common malignant skin tumors, with a continuously increasing incidence. Cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) 2 is a key regulator of G1-S transition and modulation of G2 progression; however, its role in cancer is a matter of debate. In the present study, a lentivirus expressing single-guide RNA (sgRNA) was constructed to knock out CDK2 using CRISP/Cas9 technology, in order to confirm the role of CDK2 in A375 human melanoma cells. The results demonstrated that CDK2 knockout induced G0/G1 phase arrest and early apoptosis by downregulating the expression of CDK4 and cyclin A2, and by upregulating the expression of cyclin D1. These results suggest that therapeutic strategies designed to target CDK2 using CRISP/Cas9 may improve the treatment outcome of cutaneous melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Houguang Liu
- Department of Dermatology, The Third Hospital of Xiamen, Xiamen, Fujian 361100, P.R. China
| | - Zheng Li
- Department of Dermatology, The Third Hospital of Xiamen, Xiamen, Fujian 361100, P.R. China
| | - Shanshan Huo
- Department of Dermatology, The Third Hospital of Xiamen, Xiamen, Fujian 361100, P.R. China
| | - Qiongling Wei
- Department of Dermatology, The Third Hospital of Xiamen, Xiamen, Fujian 361100, P.R. China
| | - Ling Ge
- Department of Dermatology, The Third Hospital of Xiamen, Xiamen, Fujian 361100, P.R. China
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Schacker M, Seimetz D. From fiction to science: clinical potentials and regulatory considerations of gene editing. Clin Transl Med 2019; 8:27. [PMID: 31637541 PMCID: PMC6803602 DOI: 10.1186/s40169-019-0244-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2019] [Accepted: 10/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Gene editing technologies such as CRISPR/Cas9 have emerged as an attractive tool not only for scientific research but also for the development of medicinal products. Their ability to induce precise double strand breaks into DNA enables targeted modifications of the genome including selective knockout of genes, correction of mutations or precise insertion of new genetic material into specific loci. Gene editing-based therapies hold a great potential for the treatment of numerous diseases and the first products are already being tested in clinical trials. The treatment indications include oncological malignancies, HIV, diseases of the hematopoietic system and metabolic disorders. This article reviews ongoing preclinical and clinical studies and discusses how gene editing technologies are altering the gene therapy landscape. In addition, it focusses on the regulatory challenges associated with such therapies and how they can be tackled during the drug development process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Schacker
- Biopharma Excellence GmbH, Agnes-Pockels-Bogen 1, 80992, Munich, Germany.
| | - Diane Seimetz
- Biopharma Excellence GmbH, Agnes-Pockels-Bogen 1, 80992, Munich, Germany
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CRISPR Craze to Transform Cardiac Biology. Trends Mol Med 2019; 25:791-802. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2019.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2019] [Revised: 06/20/2019] [Accepted: 06/21/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Lee AY, Cho MH, Kim S. Recent advances in aerosol gene delivery systems using non-viral vectors for lung cancer therapy. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2019; 16:757-772. [PMID: 31282221 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2019.1641083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Lung cancer commonly occurs at a high incidence worldwide. Application of aerosol gene delivery systems using various kinds of vectors can improve the patient's quality of life by prolonging the survival rate. AREAS COVERED This review provides a recent update on aerosol gene delivery strategies using various kinds of vectors and gene-modification technologies. Peptide-mediated gene therapy achieves specific targeting of cells and highly improves efficacy. Promoter-operating expression and the CRISPR/Cas9 system are novel gene therapy strategies for effective lung cancer treatment. Furthermore, hybrid systems with a combination of vectors or drugs have been recently applied as new trends in gene therapy. EXPERT OPINION Although aerosol gene delivery has many advantages, physiological barriers in the lungs pose formidable challenges. Targeted gene delivery and gene-editing technology are promising strategies for lung cancer therapy. These strategies may allow the development of safety and high efficiency for clinical application. Recently, hybrid gene therapy combining novel and specific vectors has been developed as an advanced strategy. Although gene therapy for lung cancer is being actively researched, aerosol gene therapy strategies are currently lacking, and further studies on aerosol gene therapy are needed to treat lung cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ah Young Lee
- a Center for Molecular Recognition Research, Materials and Life Science Research Division , Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) , Seoul , Korea
| | - Myung-Haing Cho
- b Laboratory of Toxicology, Research Institute for Veterinary Science and College of Veterinary Medicine , Seoul National University , Seoul , Republic of Korea
| | - Sanghwa Kim
- c Cancer Biology Laboratory , Institut Pasteur Korea , Seongnam-si , Korea
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