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Wang T, Yu T, Liu Q, Sung TC, Higuchi A. Lipid nanoparticle technology-mediated therapeutic gene manipulation in the eyes. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2024; 35:102236. [PMID: 39005878 PMCID: PMC11245926 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2024.102236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
Millions of people worldwide have hereditary genetic disorders, trauma, infectious diseases, or cancer of the eyes, and many of these eye diseases lead to irreversible blindness, which is a major public health burden. The eye is a relatively small and immune-privileged organ. The use of nucleic acid-based drugs to manipulate malfunctioning genes that target the root of ocular diseases is regarded as a therapeutic approach with great promise. However, there are still some challenges for utilizing nucleic acid therapeutics in vivo because of certain unfavorable characteristics, such as instability, biological carrier-dependent cellular uptake, short pharmacokinetic profiles in vivo (RNA), and on-target and off-target side effects (DNA). The development of lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) as gene vehicles is revolutionary progress that has contributed the clinical application of nucleic acid therapeutics. LNPs have the capability to entrap and transport various genetic materials such as small interfering RNA, mRNA, DNA, and gene editing complexes. This opens up avenues for addressing ocular diseases through the suppression of pathogenic genes, the expression of therapeutic proteins, or the correction of genetic defects. Here, we delve into the cutting-edge LNP technology for ocular gene therapy, encompassing formulation designs, preclinical development, and clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, No. 270, Xueyuan Road, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Tao Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, No. 270, Xueyuan Road, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Qian Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, No. 270, Xueyuan Road, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Tzu-Cheng Sung
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, No. 270, Xueyuan Road, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Akon Higuchi
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, No. 270, Xueyuan Road, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, National Central University, No. 300, Jhongda RD, Jhongli, Taoyuan 32001, Taiwan
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2
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Du Q, Dickinson A, Nakuleswaran P, Maghami S, Alagoda S, Hook AL, Ghaemmaghami AM. Targeting Macrophage Polarization for Reinstating Homeostasis following Tissue Damage. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:7278. [PMID: 39000385 PMCID: PMC11242417 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25137278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2024] [Revised: 06/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Tissue regeneration and remodeling involve many complex stages. Macrophages are critical in maintaining micro-environmental homeostasis by regulating inflammation and orchestrating wound healing. They display high plasticity in response to various stimuli, showing a spectrum of functional phenotypes that vary from M1 (pro-inflammatory) to M2 (anti-inflammatory) macrophages. While transient inflammation is an essential trigger for tissue healing following an injury, sustained inflammation (e.g., in foreign body response to implants, diabetes or inflammatory diseases) can hinder tissue healing and cause tissue damage. Modulating macrophage polarization has emerged as an effective strategy for enhancing immune-mediated tissue regeneration and promoting better integration of implantable materials in the host. This article provides an overview of macrophages' functional properties followed by discussing different strategies for modulating macrophage polarization. Advances in the use of synthetic and natural biomaterials to fabricate immune-modulatory materials are highlighted. This reveals that the development and clinical application of more effective immunomodulatory systems targeting macrophage polarization under pathological conditions will be driven by a detailed understanding of the factors that regulate macrophage polarization and biological function in order to optimize existing methods and generate novel strategies to control cell phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiran Du
- Immuno-Bioengineering Group, School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK;
| | - Anna Dickinson
- Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK; (A.D.); (P.N.); (S.A.)
| | - Pruthvi Nakuleswaran
- Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK; (A.D.); (P.N.); (S.A.)
| | - Susan Maghami
- Hull York Medical School, University of York, York YO10 5DD, UK;
| | - Savindu Alagoda
- Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK; (A.D.); (P.N.); (S.A.)
| | - Andrew L. Hook
- School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK;
| | - Amir M. Ghaemmaghami
- Immuno-Bioengineering Group, School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK;
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3
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Shamsnajafabadi H, Kaukonen M, Bellingrath JS, MacLaren RE, Cehajic-Kapetanovic J. In Silico CRISPR-Cas-Mediated Base Editing Strategies for Early-Onset, Severe Cone-Rod Retinal Degeneration in Three Crumbs homolog 1 Patients, including the Novel Variant c.2833G>A. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:625. [PMID: 38790254 PMCID: PMC11121323 DOI: 10.3390/genes15050625] [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: 03/27/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Pathogenic variants in the Crumbs homolog 1 (CRB1) gene lead to severe, childhood-onset retinal degeneration leading to blindness in early adulthood. There are no approved therapies, and traditional adeno-associated viral vector-based gene therapy approaches are challenged by the existence of multiple CRB1 isoforms. Here, we describe three CRB1 variants, including a novel, previously unreported variant that led to retinal degeneration. We offer a CRISPR-Cas-mediated DNA base editing strategy as a potential future therapeutic approach. This study is a retrospective case series. Clinical and genetic assessments were performed, including deep phenotyping by retinal imaging. In silico analyses were used to predict the pathogenicity of the novel variant and to determine whether the variants are amenable to DNA base editing strategies. Case 1 was a 24-year-old male with cone-rod dystrophy and retinal thickening typical of CRB1 retinopathy. He had a relatively preserved central outer retinal structure and a best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) of 60 ETDRS letters in both eyes. Genetic testing revealed compound heterozygous variants in exon 9: c.2843G>A, p.(Cys948Tyr) and a novel variant, c.2833G>A, p.(Gly945Arg), which was predicted to likely be pathogenic by an in silico analysis. Cases 2 and 3 were two brothers, aged 20 and 24, who presented with severe cone-rod dystrophy and a significant disruption of the outer nuclear layers. The BCVA was reduced to hand movements in both eyes in Case 2 and to 42 ETDRS letters in both eyes in Case 3. Case 2 was also affected with marked cystoid macular lesions, which are common in CRB1 retinopathy, but responded well to treatment with oral acetazolamide. Genetic testing revealed two c.2234C>T, p.(Thr745Met) variants in both brothers. As G-to-A and C-to-T variants, all three variants are amenable to adenine base editors (ABEs) targeting the forward strand in the Case 1 variants and the reverse strand in Cases 2 and 3. Available PAM sites were detected for KKH-nSaCas9-ABE8e for the c.2843G>A variant, nSaCas9-ABE8e and KKH-nSaCas9-ABE8e for the c.2833G>A variant, and nSpCas9-ABE8e for the c.2234C>T variant. In this case series, we report three pathogenic CRB1 variants, including a novel c.2833G>A variant associated with early-onset cone-rod dystrophy. We highlight the severity and rapid progression of the disease and offer ABEs as a potential future therapeutic approach for this devastating blinding condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hoda Shamsnajafabadi
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Oxford University, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK; (H.S.)
| | - Maria Kaukonen
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Oxford University, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK; (H.S.)
| | - Julia-Sophia Bellingrath
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Oxford University, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK; (H.S.)
| | - Robert E. MacLaren
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Oxford University, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK; (H.S.)
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University NHS Foundation Trust, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Jasmina Cehajic-Kapetanovic
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Oxford University, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK; (H.S.)
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University NHS Foundation Trust, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
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Lee H, Noh H. Advancements in Nanogels for Enhanced Ocular Drug Delivery: Cutting-Edge Strategies to Overcome Eye Barriers. Gels 2023; 9:718. [PMID: 37754399 PMCID: PMC10529109 DOI: 10.3390/gels9090718] [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: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Nanomedicine in gel or particle formation holds considerable potential for enhancing passive and active targeting within ocular drug delivery systems. The complex barriers of the eye, exemplified by the intricate network of closely connected tissue structures, pose significant challenges for drug administration. Leveraging the capability of engineered nanomedicine offers a promising approach to enhance drug penetration, particularly through active targeting agents such as protein peptides and aptamers, which facilitate targeted release and heightened bioavailability. Simultaneously, DNA carriers have emerged as a cutting-edge class of active-targeting structures, connecting active targeting agents and illustrating their potential in ocular drug delivery applications. This review aims to consolidate recent findings regarding the optimization of various nanoparticles, i.e., hydrogel-based systems, incorporating both passive and active targeting agents for ocular drug delivery, thereby identifying novel mechanisms and strategies. Furthermore, the review delves into the potential application of DNA nanostructures, exploring their role in the development of targeted drug delivery approaches within the field of ocular therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hyeran Noh
- Department of Optometry, Seoul National University of Science and Technology, Gongnung-ro 232, Nowon-gu, Seoul 01811, Republic of Korea;
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Zeng S, Chen Y, Zhou F, Zhang T, Fan X, Chrzanowski W, Gillies MC, Zhu L. Recent advances and prospects for lipid-based nanoparticles as drug carriers in the treatment of human retinal diseases. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2023; 199:114965. [PMID: 37315899 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2023.114965] [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: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The delivery of cures for retinal diseases remains problematic. There are four main challenges: passing through multiple barriers of the eye, the delivery to particular retinal cell types, the capability to carry different forms of therapeutic cargo and long-term therapeutic efficacy. Lipid-based nanoparticles (LBNPs) are potent to overcome these challenges due to their unique merits: amphiphilic nanoarchitectures to pass biological barriers, vary modifications with specific affinity to target cell types, flexible capacity for large and mixed types of cargos and slow-release formulations for long-term treatment. We have reviewed the latest research on the applications of LBNPs for treating retinal diseases and categorized them by different payloads. Furthermore, we identified technical barriers and discussed possible future development for LBNPs to expand the therapeutic potential in treating retinal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaoxue Zeng
- Macula Research Group, Save Sight Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Yingying Chen
- Macula Research Group, Save Sight Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia; Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Fanfan Zhou
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Ting Zhang
- Macula Research Group, Save Sight Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Xiaohui Fan
- Pharmaceutical Informatics Institute, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
| | | | - Mark C Gillies
- Macula Research Group, Save Sight Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Ling Zhu
- Macula Research Group, Save Sight Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia.
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Sp S, Mitra RN, Zheng M, Chrispell JD, Wang K, Kwon YS, Weiss ER, Han Z. Gene augmentation for autosomal dominant retinitis pigmentosa using rhodopsin genomic loci nanoparticles in the P23H +/- knock-in murine model. Gene Ther 2023; 30:628-640. [PMID: 36935427 DOI: 10.1038/s41434-023-00394-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2022] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/21/2023]
Abstract
Gene therapy for autosomal dominant retinitis pigmentosa (adRP) is challenged by the dominant inheritance of the mutant genes, which would seemingly require a combination of mutant suppression and wild-type replacement of the appropriate gene. We explore the possibility that delivery of a nanoparticle (NP)-mediated full-length mouse genomic rhodopsin (gRho) or human genomic rhodopsin (gRHO) locus can overcome the dominant negative effects of the mutant rhodopsin in the clinically relevant P23H+/--knock-in heterozygous mouse model. Our results demonstrate that mice in both gRho and gRHO NP-treated groups exhibit significant structural and functional recovery of the rod photoreceptors, which lasted for 3 months post-injection, indicating a promising reduction in photoreceptor degeneration. We performed miRNA transcriptome analysis using next generation sequencing and detected differentially expressed miRNAs as a first step towards identifying miRNAs that could potentially be used as rhodopsin gene expression enhancers or suppressors for sustained photoreceptor rescue. Our results indicate that delivering an intact genomic locus as a transgene has a greater chance of success compared to the use of the cDNA for treatment of this model of adRP, emphasizing the importance of gene augmentation using a gDNA that includes regulatory elements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simna Sp
- Department of Ophthalmology, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Rajendra N Mitra
- Department of Ophthalmology, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Min Zheng
- Department of Ophthalmology, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Jared D Chrispell
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Kai Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Yong-Su Kwon
- Department of Ophthalmology, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Ellen R Weiss
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Zongchao Han
- Department of Ophthalmology, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
- Carolina Institute for NanoMedicine, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
- Division of Pharmacoengineering & Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
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7
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Hakim A, Guido B, Narsineni L, Chen DW, Foldvari M. Gene therapy strategies for glaucoma from IOP reduction to retinal neuroprotection: progress towards non-viral systems. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2023; 196:114781. [PMID: 36940751 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2023.114781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Revised: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023]
Abstract
Glaucoma is the result of the gradual death of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) whose axons form the optic nerve. Elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) is a major risk factors thatcontributes to RGC apoptosis and axonal loss at the lamina cribrosa, resulting in progressive reduction and eventual anterograde-retrograde transport blockade of neurotrophic factors. Current glaucoma management mainly focuses on pharmacological or surgical lowering of IOP, to manage the only modifiable risk factor. Although IOP reduction delays disease progression, it does not address previous and ongoing optic nerve degeneration. Gene therapy is a promising direction to control or modify genes involved in the pathophysiology of glaucoma. Both viral and non-viral gene therapy delivery systems are emerging as promising alternatives or add-on therapies to traditional treatments for improving IOP control and provide neuroprotection. The specific spotlight on non-viral gene delivery systems shows further progress towards improving the safety of gene therapy and implementing neuroprotection by targeting specific tissues and cells in the eye and specifically in the retina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antoine Hakim
- School of Pharmacy, University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue West, Waterloo, ON, Canada N2L 3G1
| | - Benjamin Guido
- School of Pharmacy, University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue West, Waterloo, ON, Canada N2L 3G1
| | - Lokesh Narsineni
- School of Pharmacy, University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue West, Waterloo, ON, Canada N2L 3G1
| | - Ding-Wen Chen
- School of Pharmacy, University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue West, Waterloo, ON, Canada N2L 3G1
| | - Marianna Foldvari
- School of Pharmacy, University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue West, Waterloo, ON, Canada N2L 3G1; Waterloo Institute of Nanotechnology and Center for Bioengineering and Biotechnology University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue West, Waterloo, ON, Canada N2L 3G1.
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8
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Zhou T, Lee A, Lo ACY, Kwok JSWJ. Diabetic Corneal Neuropathy: Pathogenic Mechanisms and Therapeutic Strategies. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:816062. [PMID: 35281903 PMCID: PMC8905431 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.816062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a major global public health problem that can cause complications such as diabetic retinopathy, diabetic neuropathy, and diabetic nephropathy. Besides the reporting of reduction in corneal nerve density and decrease in corneal sensitivity in diabetic patients, there may be a subsequent result in delayed corneal wound healing and increased corneal infections. Despite being a potential cause of blindness, these corneal nerve changes have not gained enough attention. It has been proposed that corneal nerve changes may be an indicator for diabetic neuropathy, which can provide a window for early diagnosis and treatment. In this review, the authors aimed to give an overview of the relationship between corneal nerves and diabetic neuropathy as well as the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms of corneal nerve fiber changes caused by DM for improved prediction and prevention of diabetic neuropathy. In addition, the authors summarized current and novel therapeutic methods for delayed corneal wound healing, nerve protection and regeneration in the diabetic cornea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Zhou
- Department of Ophthalmology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Allie Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Amy Cheuk Yin Lo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Jeremy Sze Wai John Kwok
- Department of Ophthalmology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
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9
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Rotov AY, Romanov IS, Tarakanchikova YV, Astakhova LA. Application Prospects for Synthetic Nanoparticles in Optogenetic Retinal Prosthetics. J EVOL BIOCHEM PHYS+ 2021. [DOI: 10.1134/s0022093021060132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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10
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Schneider N, Sundaresan Y, Gopalakrishnan P, Beryozkin A, Hanany M, Levanon EY, Banin E, Ben-Aroya S, Sharon D. Inherited retinal diseases: Linking genes, disease-causing variants, and relevant therapeutic modalities. Prog Retin Eye Res 2021; 89:101029. [PMID: 34839010 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2021.101029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Revised: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Inherited retinal diseases (IRDs) are a clinically complex and heterogenous group of visual impairment phenotypes caused by pathogenic variants in at least 277 nuclear and mitochondrial genes, affecting different retinal regions, and depleting the vision of affected individuals. Genes that cause IRDs when mutated are unique by possessing differing genotype-phenotype correlations, varying inheritance patterns, hypomorphic alleles, and modifier genes thus complicating genetic interpretation. Next-generation sequencing has greatly advanced the identification of novel IRD-related genes and pathogenic variants in the last decade. For this review, we performed an in-depth literature search which allowed for compilation of the Global Retinal Inherited Disease (GRID) dataset containing 4,798 discrete variants and 17,299 alleles published in 31 papers, showing a wide range of frequencies and complexities among the 194 genes reported in GRID, with 65% of pathogenic variants being unique to a single individual. A better understanding of IRD-related gene distribution, gene complexity, and variant types allow for improved genetic testing and therapies. Current genetic therapeutic methods are also quite diverse and rely on variant identification, and range from whole gene replacement to single nucleotide editing at the DNA or RNA levels. IRDs and their suitable therapies thus require a range of effective disease modelling in human cells, granting insight into disease mechanisms and testing of possible treatments. This review summarizes genetic and therapeutic modalities of IRDs, provides new analyses of IRD-related genes (GRID and complexity scores), and provides information to match genetic-based therapies such as gene-specific and variant-specific therapies to the appropriate individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Schneider
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hadassah Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 91120, Israel
| | - Yogapriya Sundaresan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hadassah Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 91120, Israel
| | - Prakadeeswari Gopalakrishnan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hadassah Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 91120, Israel
| | - Avigail Beryozkin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hadassah Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 91120, Israel
| | - Mor Hanany
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hadassah Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 91120, Israel
| | - Erez Y Levanon
- The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, 5290002, Israel
| | - Eyal Banin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hadassah Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 91120, Israel
| | - Shay Ben-Aroya
- The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, 5290002, Israel
| | - Dror Sharon
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hadassah Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 91120, Israel.
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11
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Martinez Velazquez LA, Ballios BG. The Next Generation of Molecular and Cellular Therapeutics for Inherited Retinal Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222111542. [PMID: 34768969 PMCID: PMC8583900 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Revised: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Inherited retinal degenerations (IRDs) are a diverse group of conditions that are often characterized by the loss of photoreceptors and blindness. Recent innovations in molecular biology and genomics have allowed us to identify the causative defects behind these dystrophies and to design therapeutics that target specific mechanisms of retinal disease. Recently, the FDA approved the first in vivo gene therapy for one of these hereditary blinding conditions. Current clinical trials are exploring new therapies that could provide treatment for a growing number of retinal dystrophies. While the field has had early success with gene augmentation strategies for treating retinal disease based on loss-of-function mutations, many novel approaches hold the promise of offering therapies that span the full spectrum of causative mutations and mechanisms. Here, we provide a comprehensive review of the approaches currently in development including a discussion of retinal neuroprotection, gene therapies (gene augmentation, gene editing, RNA modification, optogenetics), and regenerative stem or precursor cell-based therapies. Our review focuses on technologies that are being developed for clinical translation or are in active clinical trials and discusses the advantages and limitations for each approach.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Brian G. Ballios
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 3A9, Canada
- Correspondence:
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12
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Ahmed I, Johnston RJ, Singh MS. Pluripotent stem cell therapy for retinal diseases. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2021; 9:1279. [PMID: 34532416 PMCID: PMC8421932 DOI: 10.21037/atm-20-4747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Pluripotent stem cells (PSCs), which include human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) and induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC), have been used to study development of disease processes, and as potential therapies in multiple organ systems. In recent years, there has been increasing interest in the use of PSC-based transplantation to treat disorders of the retina in which retinal cells have been functionally damaged or lost through degeneration. The retina, which consists of neuronal tissue, provides an excellent system to test the therapeutic utility of PSC-based transplantation due to its accessibility and the availability of high-resolution imaging technology to evaluate effects. Preclinical trials in animal models of retinal diseases have shown improvement in visual outcomes following subretinal transplantation of PSC-derived photoreceptors or retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells. This review focuses on preclinical studies and clinical trials exploring the use of PSCs for retinal diseases. To date, several phase I/II clinical trials in patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and Stargardt disease (STGD1) have demonstrated the safety and feasibility of PSC-derived RPE transplantation. Additional phase I/II clinical trials using PSC-derived RPE or photoreceptor cells for the treatment of AMD, STGD1, and also retinitis pigmentosa (RP) are currently in the pipeline. As this field continues to evolve, additional technologies may enhance PSC-derived cell transplantation through gene-editing of autologous cells, transplantation of more complex cellular structures such as organoids, and monitoring of transplanted cells through novel imaging technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ishrat Ahmed
- Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | - Mandeep S Singh
- Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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13
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Huang D, Heath Jeffery RC, Aung-Htut MT, McLenachan S, Fletcher S, Wilton SD, Chen FK. Stargardt disease and progress in therapeutic strategies. Ophthalmic Genet 2021; 43:1-26. [PMID: 34455905 DOI: 10.1080/13816810.2021.1966053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Background: Stargardt disease (STGD1) is an autosomal recessive retinal dystrophy due to mutations in ABCA4, characterized by subretinal deposition of lipofuscin-like substances and bilateral centrifugal vision loss. Despite the tremendous progress made in the understanding of STGD1, there are no approved treatments to date. This review examines the challenges in the development of an effective STGD1 therapy.Materials and Methods: A literature review was performed through to June 2021 summarizing the spectrum of retinal phenotypes in STGD1, the molecular biology of ABCA4 protein, the in vivo and in vitro models used to investigate the mechanisms of ABCA4 mutations and current clinical trials.Results: STGD1 phenotypic variability remains an challenge for clinical trial design and patient selection. Pre-clinical development of therapeutic options has been limited by the lack of animal models reflecting the diverse phenotypic spectrum of STDG1. Patient-derived cell lines have facilitated the characterization of splice mutations but the clinical presentation is not always predicted by the effect of specific mutations on retinoid metabolism in cellular models. Current therapies primarily aim to delay vision loss whilst strategies to restore vision are less well developed.Conclusions: STGD1 therapy development can be accelerated by a deeper understanding of genotype-phenotype correlations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Di Huang
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Murdoch University, Western Australia, Australia.,Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science (Incorporating Lions Eye Institute), the University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia.,Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science & the University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Rachael C Heath Jeffery
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science (Incorporating Lions Eye Institute), the University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - May Thandar Aung-Htut
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Murdoch University, Western Australia, Australia.,Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science & the University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Samuel McLenachan
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science (Incorporating Lions Eye Institute), the University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Sue Fletcher
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Murdoch University, Western Australia, Australia.,Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science & the University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Steve D Wilton
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Murdoch University, Western Australia, Australia.,Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science & the University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Fred K Chen
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science (Incorporating Lions Eye Institute), the University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia.,Australian Inherited Retinal Disease Registry and DNA Bank, Department of Medical Technology and Physics, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia.,Department of Ophthalmology, Royal Perth Hospital, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.,Department of Ophthalmology, Perth Children's Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
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14
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Delivery of Genetic Information: Viral Vector and Nonviral Vector Gene Therapies. Int Ophthalmol Clin 2021; 61:35-57. [PMID: 34196317 DOI: 10.1097/iio.0000000000000360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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15
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Botto C, Rucli M, Tekinsoy MD, Pulman J, Sahel JA, Dalkara D. Early and late stage gene therapy interventions for inherited retinal degenerations. Prog Retin Eye Res 2021; 86:100975. [PMID: 34058340 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2021.100975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Revised: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Inherited and age-related retinal degeneration is the hallmark of a large group of heterogeneous diseases and is the main cause of untreatable blindness today. Genetic factors play a major pathogenic role in retinal degenerations for both monogenic diseases (such as retinitis pigmentosa) and complex diseases with established genetic risk factors (such as age-related macular degeneration). Progress in genotyping techniques and back of the eye imaging are completing our understanding of these diseases and their manifestations in patient populations suffering from retinal degenerations. It is clear that whatever the genetic cause, the majority of vision loss in retinal diseases results from the loss of photoreceptor function. The timing and circumstances surrounding the loss of photoreceptor function determine the adequate therapeutic approach to use for each patient. Among such approaches, gene therapy is rapidly becoming a therapeutic reality applicable in the clinic. This massive move from laboratory work towards clinical application has been propelled by the advances in our understanding of disease genetics and mechanisms, gene delivery vectors, gene editing systems, and compensatory strategies for loss of photoreceptor function. Here, we provide an overview of existing modalities of retinal gene therapy and their relevance based on the needs of patient populations suffering from inherited retinal degenerations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Botto
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, F-75012, Paris, France
| | - Marco Rucli
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, F-75012, Paris, France
| | - Müge Defne Tekinsoy
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, F-75012, Paris, France
| | - Juliette Pulman
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, F-75012, Paris, France
| | - José-Alain Sahel
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, F-75012, Paris, France; Department of Ophthalmology, The University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, United States; CHNO des Quinze-Vingts, INSERM-DGOS CIC 1423, F-75012, Paris, France; Fondation Ophtalmologique Rothschild, F-75019, Paris, France
| | - Deniz Dalkara
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, F-75012, Paris, France.
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16
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Simna SP, Han Z. Prospects Of Non-Coding Elements In Genomic Dna Based Gene Therapy. Curr Gene Ther 2021; 22:89-103. [PMID: 33874871 DOI: 10.2174/1566523221666210419090357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2020] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Gene therapy has made significant development since the commencement of the first clinical trials a few decades ago and has remained a dynamic area of research regardless of obstacles such as immune response and insertional mutagenesis. Progression in various technologies like next-generation sequencing (NGS) and nanotechnology has established the importance of non-coding segments of a genome, thereby taking gene therapy to the next level. In this review, we have summarized the importance of non-coding elements, highlighting the advantages of using full-length genomic DNA loci (gDNA) compared to complementary DNA (cDNA) or minigene, currently used in gene therapy. The focus of this review is to provide an overview of the advances and the future of potential use of gDNA loci in gene therapy, expanding the therapeutic repertoire in molecular medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- S P Simna
- Department of Ophthalmology, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599. United States
| | - Zongchao Han
- Department of Ophthalmology, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599. United States
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17
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Scheive M, Yazdani S, Hajrasouliha AR. The utility and risks of therapeutic nanotechnology in the retina. Ther Adv Ophthalmol 2021; 13:25158414211003381. [PMID: 33817552 PMCID: PMC7989128 DOI: 10.1177/25158414211003381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2020] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The clinical application of nanotechnology in medicine is promising for therapeutic, diagnostic, and surgical improvements in the near future. Nanotechnologies in nano-ophthalmology are in the early stages of application in clinical contexts, including ocular drug and gene delivery systems addressing eye disorders, particularly retinopathies. Retinal diseases are challenging to treat as current interventions, such as intravitreal injections, are limited by their invasive nature. This review examines nanotechnological approaches to retinal diseases in a clinical context. Nanotechnology has the potential to transform pharmacological and surgical interventions by overcoming limitations posed by the protective anatomical and physiological barriers that limit access to the retina. Preclinical research in the application of nanoparticles in diagnostics indicates that nanoparticles can enhance existing diagnostic and screening tools to detect diseases earlier and more easily and improve disease progression monitoring precision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Scheive
- Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Saeed Yazdani
- Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Amir R Hajrasouliha
- Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology, Eugene and Marilyn Glick Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Indiana University School of Medicine, 1160 W Michigan St., Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
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18
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Crane R, Conley SM, Al-Ubaidi MR, Naash MI. Gene Therapy to the Retina and the Cochlea. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:652215. [PMID: 33815052 PMCID: PMC8010260 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.652215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Vision and hearing disorders comprise the most common sensory disorders found in people. Many forms of vision and hearing loss are inherited and current treatments only provide patients with temporary or partial relief. As a result, developing genetic therapies for any of the several hundred known causative genes underlying inherited retinal and cochlear disorders has been of great interest. Recent exciting advances in gene therapy have shown promise for the clinical treatment of inherited retinal diseases, and while clinical gene therapies for cochlear disease are not yet available, research in the last several years has resulted in significant advancement in preclinical development for gene delivery to the cochlea. Furthermore, the development of somatic targeted genome editing using CRISPR/Cas9 has brought new possibilities for the treatment of dominant or gain-of-function disease. Here we discuss the current state of gene therapy for inherited diseases of the retina and cochlea with an eye toward areas that still need additional development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan Crane
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Shannon M. Conley
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
- Oklahoma Center for Neurosciences, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
| | - Muayyad R. Al-Ubaidi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX, United States
- College of Optometry, University of Houston, Houston, TX, United States
- Depatment of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Houston, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Muna I. Naash
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX, United States
- College of Optometry, University of Houston, Houston, TX, United States
- Depatment of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Houston, Houston, TX, United States
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19
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Toualbi L, Toms M, Moosajee M. The Landscape of Non-Viral Gene Augmentation Strategies for Inherited Retinal Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:2318. [PMID: 33652562 PMCID: PMC7956638 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22052318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Inherited retinal diseases (IRDs) are a heterogeneous group of disorders causing progressive loss of vision, affecting approximately one in 1000 people worldwide. Gene augmentation therapy, which typically involves using adeno-associated viral vectors for delivery of healthy gene copies to affected tissues, has shown great promise as a strategy for the treatment of IRDs. However, the use of viruses is associated with several limitations, including harmful immune responses, genome integration, and limited gene carrying capacity. Here, we review the advances in non-viral gene augmentation strategies, such as the use of plasmids with minimal bacterial backbones and scaffold/matrix attachment region (S/MAR) sequences, that have the capability to overcome these weaknesses by accommodating genes of any size and maintaining episomal transgene expression with a lower risk of eliciting an immune response. Low retinal transfection rates remain a limitation, but various strategies, including coupling the DNA with different types of chemical vehicles (nanoparticles) and the use of electrical methods such as iontophoresis and electrotransfection to aid cell entry, have shown promise in preclinical studies. Non-viral gene therapy may offer a safer and effective option for future treatment of IRDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lyes Toualbi
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London EC1V 9EL, UK; (L.T.); (M.T.)
- The Francis Crick Institute, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Maria Toms
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London EC1V 9EL, UK; (L.T.); (M.T.)
- The Francis Crick Institute, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Mariya Moosajee
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London EC1V 9EL, UK; (L.T.); (M.T.)
- The Francis Crick Institute, London NW1 1AT, UK
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London EC1V 2PD, UK
- Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Found Trust, London WC1N 3JH, UK
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20
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Kansara VS, Cooper M, Sesenoglu-Laird O, Muya L, Moen R, Ciulla TA. Suprachoroidally Delivered DNA Nanoparticles Transfect Retina and Retinal Pigment Epithelium/Choroid in Rabbits. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2020; 9:21. [PMID: 33364076 PMCID: PMC7745627 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.9.13.21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose This study evaluated ocular tolerability and transfectability of nonviral DNA nanoparticles (DNPs) after microneedle-based suprachoroidal (SC) administration, in comparison to subretinal (SR) administration. Methods The DNPs consisted of a single copy of plasmid DNA with a polyubiquitin C/luciferase transcriptional cassette compacted with 10 kDa PEG-substituted lysine 30-mer peptides (CK30PEG10k). New Zealand White rabbits (n = 4 per group) received a unilateral SC injection (0.1 mL via a microneedle technique) of ellipsoid-shaped DNPs, rod-shaped DNPs, or saline (negative control). A cohort of rabbits (n = 4) also received a single unilateral SR injection (0.05 mL via a transvitreal approach) of rod-shaped DNPs. At day 7, luciferase activity was measured in the retina and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE)–choroid via bioluminescence assay. A cohort of rabbits received a SC injection of analogous DNPs to assess spread of DNP injectate in the suprachoroidal space (SCS) via optical coherent tomography and histology. Results Suprachoroidal injection of DNPs resulted in reversible opening of the SCS circumferentially and posteriorly and was generally well tolerated, with no significant ocular examination score changes, intraocular pressure abnormalities, or changes in electroretinography amplitudes on day 7 compared to the baseline. High luciferase activity was observed in the retina and RPE-choroid of eyes that received SC DNPs (rod and ellipsoid shape) and SR DNPs (rod shape) compared to controls. The mean luciferase activity in RPE-choroid and retina was comparable between SC and SR administrations. Transfection in the RPE-choroid was approximately 10-fold higher than in the retina after either SC or SR administration of DNPs. Conclusions Suprachoroidal and SR administration of DNPs resulted in comparable transfection of retina and RPE-choroid. Translational Relevance Suprachoroidal delivery of DNPs offers the potential to precisely target chorioretinal tissues while avoiding surgical risks associated with SR injection, and it may offer an office-based nonsurgical gene therapy option for the treatment of retinal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mark Cooper
- Copernicus Therapeutics, Inc., Cleveland, OH, USA
| | | | - Leroy Muya
- Clearside Biomedical, Inc., Alpharetta, GA, USA
| | - Robert Moen
- Copernicus Therapeutics, Inc., Cleveland, OH, USA
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21
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Ku CA, Pennesi ME. The new landscape of retinal gene therapy. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF MEDICAL GENETICS PART C-SEMINARS IN MEDICAL GENETICS 2020; 184:846-859. [PMID: 32888388 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.c.31842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Revised: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Novel therapeutics for inherited retinal dystrophies (IRDs) have rapidly evolved since groundbreaking clinical trials for LCA due to RPE65 mutations led to the first FDA-approved in vivo gene therapy. Since then, advancements in viral vectors have led to more efficient AAV transduction and developed other viral vectors for gene augmentation therapy of large gene targets. Furthermore, significant developments in gene editing and RNA modulation technologies have introduced novel capabilities for treatment of autosomal dominant diseases, intronic mutations, and/or large genes otherwise unable to be treated with current viral vectors. We highlight strategies currently being evaluated in gene therapy clinical trials and promising preclinical developments for IRDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristy A Ku
- Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Mark E Pennesi
- Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
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22
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Boon N, Wijnholds J, Pellissier LP. Research Models and Gene Augmentation Therapy for CRB1 Retinal Dystrophies. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:860. [PMID: 32922261 PMCID: PMC7456964 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.00860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) and Leber congenital amaurosis (LCA) are inherited degenerative retinal dystrophies with vision loss that ultimately lead to blindness. Several genes have been shown to be involved in early onset retinal dystrophies, including CRB1 and RPE65. Gene therapy recently became available for young RP patients with variations in the RPE65 gene. Current research programs test adeno-associated viral gene augmentation or editing therapy vectors on various disease models mimicking the disease in patients. These include several animal and emerging human-derived models, such as human-induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-derived retinal organoids or hiPSC-derived retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), and human donor retinal explants. Variations in the CRB1 gene are a major cause for early onset autosomal recessive RP with patients suffering from visual impairment before their adolescence and for LCA with newborns experiencing severe visual impairment within the first months of life. These patients cannot benefit yet from an available gene therapy treatment. In this review, we will discuss the recent advances, advantages and disadvantages of different CRB1 human and animal retinal degeneration models. In addition, we will describe novel therapeutic tools that have been developed, which could potentially be used for retinal gene augmentation therapy for RP patients with variations in the CRB1 gene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nanda Boon
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Jan Wijnholds
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands.,The Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW), Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Lucie P Pellissier
- Biology and Bioinformatics of Signalling Systems, Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements INRAE UMR 0085, CNRS UMR 7247, Université de Tours, IFCE, Nouzilly, France
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23
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French LS, Mellough CB, Chen FK, Carvalho LS. A Review of Gene, Drug and Cell-Based Therapies for Usher Syndrome. Front Cell Neurosci 2020; 14:183. [PMID: 32733204 PMCID: PMC7363968 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2020.00183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Usher syndrome is a genetic disorder causing neurosensory hearing loss and blindness from retinitis pigmentosa (RP). Adaptive techniques such as braille, digital and optical magnifiers, mobility training, cochlear implants, or other assistive listening devices are indispensable for reducing disability. However, there is currently no treatment to reduce or arrest sensory cell degeneration. There are several classes of treatments for Usher syndrome being investigated. The present article reviews the progress this research has made towards delivering commercial options for patients with Usher syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy S French
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences (incorporating Lions Eye Institute), The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Carla B Mellough
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences (incorporating Lions Eye Institute), The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Fred K Chen
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences (incorporating Lions Eye Institute), The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia.,Department of Ophthalmology, Royal Perth Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia.,Department of Ophthalmology, Perth Children's Hospital, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Livia S Carvalho
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences (incorporating Lions Eye Institute), The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
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24
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The Interplay between Peripherin 2 Complex Formation and Degenerative Retinal Diseases. Cells 2020; 9:cells9030784. [PMID: 32213850 PMCID: PMC7140794 DOI: 10.3390/cells9030784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2020] [Revised: 03/11/2020] [Accepted: 03/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Peripherin 2 (Prph2) is a photoreceptor-specific tetraspanin protein present in the outer segment (OS) rims of rod and cone photoreceptors. It shares many common features with other tetraspanins, including a large intradiscal loop which contains several cysteines. This loop enables Prph2 to associate with itself to form homo-oligomers or with its homologue, rod outer segment membrane protein 1 (Rom1) to form hetero-tetramers and hetero-octamers. Mutations in PRPH2 cause a multitude of retinal diseases including autosomal dominant retinitis pigmentosa (RP) or cone dominant macular dystrophies. The importance of Prph2 for photoreceptor development, maintenance and function is underscored by the fact that its absence results in a failure to initialize OS formation in rods and formation of severely disorganized OS membranous structures in cones. Although the exact role of Rom1 has not been well studied, it has been concluded that it is not necessary for disc morphogenesis but is required for fine tuning OS disc size and structure. Pathogenic mutations in PRPH2 often result in complex and multifactorial phenotypes, involving not just photoreceptors, as has historically been reasoned, but also secondary effects on the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and retinal/choroidal vasculature. The ability of Prph2 to form complexes was identified as a key requirement for the development and maintenance of OS structure and function. Studies using mouse models of pathogenic Prph2 mutations established a connection between changes in complex formation and disease phenotypes. Although progress has been made in the development of therapeutic approaches for retinal diseases in general, the highly complex interplay of functions mediated by Prph2 and the precise regulation of these complexes made it difficult, thus far, to develop a suitable Prph2-specific therapy. Here we describe the latest results obtained in Prph2-associated research and how mouse models provided new insights into the pathogenesis of its related diseases. Furthermore, we give an overview on the current status of the development of therapeutic solutions.
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25
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Trapani I, Auricchio A. Has retinal gene therapy come of age? From bench to bedside and back to bench. Hum Mol Genet 2020; 28:R108-R118. [PMID: 31238338 PMCID: PMC6797000 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddz130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2019] [Revised: 04/24/2019] [Accepted: 06/07/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinal gene therapy has advanced considerably in the past three decades. Initial efforts have been devoted to comprehensively explore and optimize the transduction abilities of gene delivery vectors, define the appropriate intraocular administration routes and obtain evidence of efficacy in animal models of inherited retinal diseases (IRDs). Successful translation in clinical trials of the initial promising proof-of-concept studies led to the important milestone of the first approved product for retinal gene therapy in both US and Europe. The unprecedented clinical development observed during the last decade in the field is however highlighting new challenges that will need to be overcome to bring gene therapy to fruition to a larger patient population within and beyond the realm of IRDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivana Trapani
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine (TIGEM), Pozzuoli, Italy.,Medical Genetics, Department of Translational Medicine, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Alberto Auricchio
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine (TIGEM), Pozzuoli, Italy.,Department of Advanced Biomedicine, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
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26
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AL Qtaish N, Gallego I, Villate-Beitia I, Sainz-Ramos M, López-Méndez TB, Grijalvo S, Eritja R, Soto-Sánchez C, Martínez-Navarrete G, Fernández E, Puras G, Pedraz JL. Niosome-Based Approach for In Situ Gene Delivery to Retina and Brain Cortex as Immune-Privileged Tissues. Pharmaceutics 2020; 12:pharmaceutics12030198. [PMID: 32106545 PMCID: PMC7150807 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics12030198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2020] [Revised: 02/21/2020] [Accepted: 02/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-viral vectors have emerged as a promising alternative to viral gene delivery systems due to their safer profile. Among non-viral vectors, recently, niosomes have shown favorable properties for gene delivery, including low toxicity, high stability, and easy production. The three main components of niosome formulations include a cationic lipid that is responsible for the electrostatic interactions with the negatively charged genetic material, a non-ionic surfactant that enhances the long-term stability of the niosome, and a helper component that can be added to improve its physicochemical properties and biological performance. This review is aimed at providing recent information about niosome-based non-viral vectors for gene delivery purposes. Specially, we will discuss the composition, preparation methods, physicochemical properties, and biological evaluation of niosomes and corresponding nioplexes that result from the addition of the genetic material onto their cationic surface. Next, we will focus on the in situ application of such niosomes to deliver the genetic material into immune-privileged tissues such as the brain cortex and the retina. Finally, as future perspectives, non-invasive administration routes and different targeting strategies will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuseibah AL Qtaish
- NanoBioCel group, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), E-01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; (N.A.Q.); (I.G.); (I.V.-B.); (M.S.-R.); (T.B.L.-M.)
- Networking Research Centre of Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), E-01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Idoia Gallego
- NanoBioCel group, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), E-01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; (N.A.Q.); (I.G.); (I.V.-B.); (M.S.-R.); (T.B.L.-M.)
- Networking Research Centre of Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), E-01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Ilia Villate-Beitia
- NanoBioCel group, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), E-01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; (N.A.Q.); (I.G.); (I.V.-B.); (M.S.-R.); (T.B.L.-M.)
- Networking Research Centre of Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), E-01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Myriam Sainz-Ramos
- NanoBioCel group, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), E-01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; (N.A.Q.); (I.G.); (I.V.-B.); (M.S.-R.); (T.B.L.-M.)
- Networking Research Centre of Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), E-01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Tania Belén López-Méndez
- NanoBioCel group, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), E-01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; (N.A.Q.); (I.G.); (I.V.-B.); (M.S.-R.); (T.B.L.-M.)
- Networking Research Centre of Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), E-01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Santiago Grijalvo
- Networking Research Centre of Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), E-08034 Barcelona, Spain; (S.G.); (R.E.)
- Institute for Advanced Chemistry of Catalonia, (IQAC-CSIC), E-08034 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ramón Eritja
- Networking Research Centre of Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), E-08034 Barcelona, Spain; (S.G.); (R.E.)
- Institute for Advanced Chemistry of Catalonia, (IQAC-CSIC), E-08034 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Cristina Soto-Sánchez
- Neuroprothesis and Neuroengineering Research Group, Miguel Hernández University, E-03202 Elche, Spain; (C.S.-S.); (G.M.-N.); (E.F.)
| | - Gema Martínez-Navarrete
- Neuroprothesis and Neuroengineering Research Group, Miguel Hernández University, E-03202 Elche, Spain; (C.S.-S.); (G.M.-N.); (E.F.)
- Networking Research Centre for Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), E-03202 Elche, Spain
| | - Eduardo Fernández
- Neuroprothesis and Neuroengineering Research Group, Miguel Hernández University, E-03202 Elche, Spain; (C.S.-S.); (G.M.-N.); (E.F.)
- Networking Research Centre for Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), E-03202 Elche, Spain
| | - Gustavo Puras
- NanoBioCel group, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), E-01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; (N.A.Q.); (I.G.); (I.V.-B.); (M.S.-R.); (T.B.L.-M.)
- Networking Research Centre of Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), E-01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
- Correspondence: (G.P.); (J.L.P.); Tel.: +34-945014536 (G.P.); +34-945013091 (J.L.P.)
| | - José Luis Pedraz
- NanoBioCel group, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), E-01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; (N.A.Q.); (I.G.); (I.V.-B.); (M.S.-R.); (T.B.L.-M.)
- Networking Research Centre of Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), E-01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
- Correspondence: (G.P.); (J.L.P.); Tel.: +34-945014536 (G.P.); +34-945013091 (J.L.P.)
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Zheng M, Mitra RN, Weiss ER, Han Z. Rhodopsin Genomic Loci DNA Nanoparticles Improve Expression and Rescue of Retinal Degeneration in a Model for Retinitis Pigmentosa. Mol Ther 2019; 28:523-535. [PMID: 31879189 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2019.11.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2019] [Revised: 11/12/2019] [Accepted: 11/21/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The use of gene therapy may allow replacement of the defective gene. Minigenes, such as cDNAs, are often used. However, these may not express normal physiological genetic profiles due to lack of crucial endogenous regulatory elements. We constructed DNA nanoparticles (NPs) that contain either the mouse or human full-length rhodopsin genomic locus, including endogenous promoters, all introns, and flanking regulatory sequences of the 15-16 kb genomic rhodopsin DNA inserts. We transduced the NPs into primary retinal cell cultures from the rhodopsin knockout (RKO) mouse in vitro and into the RKO mouse in vivo and compared the effects on different functions to plasmid cDNA NP counterparts that were driven by ubiquitous promoters. Our results demonstrate that genomic DNA vectors resulted in long-term high levels of physiological transgene expression over a period of 5 months. In contrast, the cDNA counterparts exhibited low levels of expression with sensitivity to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress mechanism using the same transgene copy number both in vitro and in vivo. This study demonstrates for the first time the transducing of the rhodopsin genomic locus using compacted DNA NPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Zheng
- Department of Ophthalmology, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Rajendra N Mitra
- Department of Ophthalmology, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Ellen R Weiss
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Zongchao Han
- Department of Ophthalmology, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; Division of Pharmacoengineering & Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.
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28
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Zeng M, Alshehri F, Zhou D, Lara-Sáez I, Wang X, Li X, A S, Xu Q, Zhang J, Wang W. Efficient and Robust Highly Branched Poly(β-amino ester)/Minicircle COL7A1 Polymeric Nanoparticles for Gene Delivery to Recessive Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa Keratinocytes. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2019; 11:30661-30672. [PMID: 31390173 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.9b13135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB) is a severe congenital skin fragility disease caused by COL7A1 mutations that result in type VII collagen (C7) deficiency. Herein, we report a synergistic polyplex system that can efficiently restore C7 expression in RDEB keratinocytes. A highly branched multifunctional poly(β-amino ester) (HPAE), termed as HC32-122, was optimized systematically as the high-performance gene delivery vector for keratinocytes, achieving much higher transfection capability than polyethylenimine, SuperFect, and Lipofectamine 2000 without inducing obvious cytotoxicity. Concurrently, a 12 kb length minicircle DNA encoding ∼9 kb full-length COL7A1 (MCC7) devoid of bacterial sequence was biosynthesized as the therapeutic gene. Combining the highly potent polymer and the miniaturized gene structure, HC32-122/MCC7 polyplexes achieve 96.4% cellular uptake efficiency, 4019-fold COL7A1 mRNA enhancement, and robust recombinant C7 expression. Structure-property investigations reveal that HC32-122 can effectively condense MCC7 to form small, uniform, compact, and positively charged spherical nanoparticles with high DNA release flexibility. Moreover, formulation study shows that sucrose is conductive to lyophilized HC32-122/DNA polyplexes for maintaining the transfection capability. Direct frozen polyplexes can maintain full gene transfection capability after one-year storage. High efficiency, biocompatibility, facile manipulation, and long-term stability make the HC32-122/MCC7 system a promising bench-to-bed candidate for treating the debilitating RDEB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Zeng
- Charles Institute of Dermatology , University College Dublin , Dublin D04 V1W8 , Ireland
- Department of Dermatology , The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University , Hefei 230022 , China
| | - Fatma Alshehri
- Charles Institute of Dermatology , University College Dublin , Dublin D04 V1W8 , Ireland
- Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University , Riyadh 11671 , Saudi Arabia
| | - Dezhong Zhou
- Charles Institute of Dermatology , University College Dublin , Dublin D04 V1W8 , Ireland
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology , Xi'an Jiaotong University , Xi'an , Shaanxi 710049 , China
| | - Irene Lara-Sáez
- Charles Institute of Dermatology , University College Dublin , Dublin D04 V1W8 , Ireland
| | - Xi Wang
- Charles Institute of Dermatology , University College Dublin , Dublin D04 V1W8 , Ireland
| | - Xiaolin Li
- Charles Institute of Dermatology , University College Dublin , Dublin D04 V1W8 , Ireland
| | - Sigen A
- Charles Institute of Dermatology , University College Dublin , Dublin D04 V1W8 , Ireland
| | - Qian Xu
- Charles Institute of Dermatology , University College Dublin , Dublin D04 V1W8 , Ireland
| | - Jing Zhang
- Charles Institute of Dermatology , University College Dublin , Dublin D04 V1W8 , Ireland
| | - Wenxin Wang
- Charles Institute of Dermatology , University College Dublin , Dublin D04 V1W8 , Ireland
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29
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Rajala RVS. Therapeutic Benefits from Nanoparticles: The Potential Significance of Nanoscience in Retinal Degenerative Diseases. JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR BIOLOGY & THERAPEUTICS 2019; 1:44-55. [PMID: 34528026 PMCID: PMC8439377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Several nanotechnology podiums have gained remarkable attention in the area of medical sciences, including diagnostics and treatment. In the past decade, engineered multifunctional nanoparticles have served as drug and gene carriers. The most important aspect of translating nanoparticles from the bench to bedside is safety. These nanoparticles should not elicit any immune response and should not be toxic to humans or the environment. Lipid-based nanoparticles have been shown to be the least toxic for in vivo applications, and significant progress has been made in gene and drug delivery employing lipid-based nanoassemblies. Several excellent reviews and reports discuss the general use and application of lipid-based nanoparticles; our review focuses on the application of lipid-based nanoparticles for the treatment of ocular diseases, and recent advances in and updates on their use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raju V S Rajala
- Departments of Ophthalmology, Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Dean McGee Eye Institute, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
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30
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In Vivo Genome Editing as a Therapeutic Approach. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19092721. [PMID: 30213032 PMCID: PMC6163904 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19092721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2018] [Revised: 09/08/2018] [Accepted: 09/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Genome editing has been well established as a genome engineering tool that enables researchers to establish causal linkages between genetic mutation and biological phenotypes, providing further understanding of the genetic manifestation of many debilitating diseases. More recently, the paradigm of genome editing technologies has evolved to include the correction of mutations that cause diseases via the use of nucleases such as zinc-finger nucleases (ZFN), transcription activator-like effector nucleases (TALENs), and more recently, Cas9 nuclease. With the aim of reversing disease phenotypes, which arise from somatic gene mutations, current research focuses on the clinical translatability of correcting human genetic diseases in vivo, to provide long-term therapeutic benefits and potentially circumvent the limitations of in vivo cell replacement therapy. In this review, in addition to providing an overview of the various genome editing techniques available, we have also summarized several in vivo genome engineering strategies that have successfully demonstrated disease correction via in vivo genome editing. The various benefits and challenges faced in applying in vivo genome editing in humans will also be discussed.
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Kayyali MN, Wooltorton JRA, Ramsey AJ, Lin M, Chao TN, Tsourkas A, O'Malley BW, Li D. A novel nanoparticle delivery system for targeted therapy of noise-induced hearing loss. J Control Release 2018; 279:243-250. [PMID: 29673641 PMCID: PMC6344933 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2018.04.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2017] [Revised: 04/03/2018] [Accepted: 04/13/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Hearing loss is the most prevalent sensory disability worldwide and may be caused by age, drugs or exposure to excessive noise. We have previously developed a minimally-invasive nanohydrogel drug delivery system that successfully delivers nanoparticles into the inner ear. We have substantially extended this technique by functionalizing the nanoparticles and introducing a targeting peptide which recognizes prestin, a transmembrane electromotile protein uniquely expressed in outer hair cells (OHCs) of the inner ear. We demonstrate the successful delivery of molecules and plasmids specifically to OHCs. When compared to untargeted nanoparticles, the delivery of a c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) inhibitor, D-JNKi-1, to OHCs by targeted nanoparticles improved protection from noise induced hearing loss (NIHL). This is the first demonstration of a protection from NIHL using a novel safe and controllable delivery system which is minimally-invasive to the inner ear and, as such, is an extremely appealing technique for use in many clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad N Kayyali
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, 421 Curie Blvd, BRB 1220, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
| | - Julian R A Wooltorton
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, 421 Curie Blvd, BRB 1220, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
| | - Andrew J Ramsey
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, 421 Curie Blvd, BRB 1220, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
| | - Mei Lin
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, 421 Curie Blvd, BRB 1220, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Department of Pathology, UT Health Science Center, 6431 Fannin St., MSB 2.262, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Tiffany N Chao
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, 421 Curie Blvd, BRB 1220, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
| | - Andrew Tsourkas
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, 240 Skirkanish Hall, 210 S. 33rd St., Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
| | - Bert W O'Malley
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, 421 Curie Blvd, BRB 1220, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
| | - Daqing Li
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, 421 Curie Blvd, BRB 1220, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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Kelley RA, Conley SM, Makkia R, Watson JN, Han Z, Cooper MJ, Naash MI. DNA nanoparticles are safe and nontoxic in non-human primate eyes. Int J Nanomedicine 2018; 13:1361-1379. [PMID: 29563793 PMCID: PMC5849385 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s157000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION DNA nanoparticles (NPs) comprising polylysine conjugated to polyethylene glycol efficiently target murine photoreceptors and the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and lead to long-term phenotypic improvement in models of retinal degeneration. Advancing this technology requires testing in a large animal model, particularly with regard to safety. So, herein we evaluate NPs in non-human primates (baboon). METHODS AND RESULTS NPs with plasmids carrying GFP and a ubiquitous, RPE-specific, or photoreceptor-specific promoter were delivered by either subretinal or intravitreal injection. We detected GFP message and protein in the retina/RPE from eyes dosed with NPs carrying ubiquitously expressed and RPE-specific vectors, and GFP message in eyes injected with NPs carrying photoreceptor-specific vectors. Importantly, we observed NP DNA in the retina/RPE following intravitreal injection, indicating the inner limiting membrane does not prevent NP diffusion into the outer retina. We did not observe any adverse events in any baboon, and there were no NP-associated changes in retinal function. Furthermore, no systemic or local inflammatory reaction to the vectors/injections was observed, and no NP DNA was found outside the eye. CONCLUSION Taken together with the well-established rodent safety and efficacy data, these findings suggest that DNA NPs may be a safe and potentially clinically viable nonviral ocular therapy platform for retinal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan A Kelley
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Shannon M Conley
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Rasha Makkia
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Jamie N Watson
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Zongchao Han
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | | | - Muna I Naash
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
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Liu S, Romano V, Steger B, Kaye SB, Hamill KJ, Willoughby CE. Gene-based antiangiogenic applications for corneal neovascularization. Surv Ophthalmol 2018; 63:193-213. [DOI: 10.1016/j.survophthal.2017.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2017] [Revised: 10/09/2017] [Accepted: 10/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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34
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Wang Y, Rajala A, Rajala RVS. Nanoparticles as Delivery Vehicles for the Treatment of Retinal Degenerative Diseases. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2018; 1074:117-123. [PMID: 29721935 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-75402-4_15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Over the last few years, huge progress has been made in the understanding of molecular mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of retinal degenerative diseases. Such knowledge has led to the development of gene therapy approaches to treat these devastating disorders. Non-viral gene delivery has been recognized as a prospective treatment for retinal degenerative diseases. In this review, we will summarize the constituent characteristics and recent applications of three representative nanoparticles (NPs) in ocular therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhong Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA.,Dean McGee Eye Institute, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Ammaji Rajala
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA.,Dean McGee Eye Institute, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Raju V S Rajala
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA. .,Dean McGee Eye Institute, Oklahoma City, OK, USA. .,Department of Physiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA. .,Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA.
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35
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Zhao K, Han J, Zhang Y, Wei L, Yu S, Wang X, Jin Z, Wang Y. Enhancing Mucosal Immune Response of Newcastle Disease Virus DNA Vaccine Using N-2-Hydroxypropyl Trimethylammonium Chloride Chitosan and N,O-Carboxymethyl Chitosan Nanoparticles as Delivery Carrier. Mol Pharm 2017; 15:226-237. [PMID: 29172532 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.7b00826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Because mucosal sites are the entry ports of pathogens, immunization via mucosal routes can extremely enhance the immunity. To elevate the potential of N-2-hydroxypropyl trimethylammonium chloride chitosan (N-2-HACC) and N,O-carboxymethyl chitosan (CMC) nanoparticles as a mucosal immune delivery carrier for DNA vaccines, we prepared the NDV F gene plasmid DNA with C3d6 molecular adjuvant (pVAX I-F(o)-C3d6) encapsulated in the N-2-HACC-CMC nanoparticles (N-2-HACC-CMC/pFDNA-C3d6 NPs). The N-2-HACC-CMC/pFDNA-C3d6 NPs had regular spherical morphology and low toxicity with a mean diameter of 309.7 ± 6.52 nm, zeta potential of 49.9 ± 4.93 mV, encapsulation efficiency of 92.27 ± 1.48%, and loading capacity of 50.75 ± 1.35%. The N-2-HACC-CMC had high stability and safety. The pVAX I-F(o)-C3d6 could be sustainably released from the N-2-HACC-CMC/pFDNA-C3d6 NPs after an initial burst release. Immunization intranasally of chickens with N-2-HACC-CMC/pFDNA-C3d6 NPs not only produced higher anti-NDV IgG and sIgA antibody than chickens in other groups did, but also significantly stimulated lymphocyte proliferation and triggered higher the IL-2, IL-4, and IFN-γ levels. These findings indicated that the N-2-HACC-CMC could be used as an efficient delivery carrier for the mucosal immunity of Newcastle disease virus DNA vaccine. The work laid a basis for the quaternized chitosan nanoparticles as efficient mucosal immunity delivery carrier for DNA vaccines and had immense application promise and potential for vaccines and drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Microbiology, School of Life Science, Heilongjiang University , Harbin 150080, China
| | - Jinyu Han
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering Process and Technology for High-efficiency Conversion, College of Chemistry and Material Sciences, Heilongjiang University , Harbin 150080, China
| | - Yang Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Microbiology, School of Life Science, Heilongjiang University , Harbin 150080, China
| | - Lin Wei
- Key Laboratory of Microbiology, School of Life Science, Heilongjiang University , Harbin 150080, China
| | - Shuang Yu
- Key Laboratory of Microbiology, School of Life Science, Heilongjiang University , Harbin 150080, China
| | - Xiaohua Wang
- Key Laboratory of Microbiology, School of Life Science, Heilongjiang University , Harbin 150080, China
| | - Zheng Jin
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering Process and Technology for High-efficiency Conversion, College of Chemistry and Material Sciences, Heilongjiang University , Harbin 150080, China
| | - Yunfeng Wang
- Division of Avian Infectious Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Biotechnology, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, CAAS , Harbin 150001, China
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36
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Mitra RN, Zheng M, Weiss ER, Han Z. Genomic form of rhodopsin DNA nanoparticles rescued autosomal dominant Retinitis pigmentosa in the P23H knock-in mouse model. Biomaterials 2017; 157:26-39. [PMID: 29232624 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2017.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2017] [Revised: 11/27/2017] [Accepted: 12/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is a group of inherited retinal degenerative conditions and a leading cause of irreversible blindness. 25%-30% of RP cases are caused by inherited autosomal dominant (ad) mutations in the rhodopsin (Rho) protein of the retina, which impose a barrier for developing therapeutic treatments for this genetically heterogeneous disorder, as simple gene replacement is not sufficient to overcome dominant disease alleles. Previously, we have explored using the genomic short-form of Rho (sgRho) for gene augmentation therapy of RP in a Rho knockout mouse model. We have shown improved gene expression and fewer epigenetic modifications compared with the use of a Rho cDNA expression construct. In the current study, we altered our strategy by delivering a codon-optimized genomic form of Rho (co-sgRho) (for gene replacement) in combination with an RNAi-based inactivation of endogenous Rho alleles (gene suppression of both mutant Rho alleles, but mismatched with the co-sgRho) into a homozygous RhoP23H/P23H knock-in (KI) RP mouse model, which has a severe phenotype of adRP. In addition, we have conjugated a cell penetrating TAT peptide sequence to our previously established CK30PEG10 diblock co-polymer. The DNAs were compacted with CK30PEG10-TAT diblock co-polymer to form DNA nanoparticles (NPs). These NPs were injected into the sub-retinal space of the KI mouse eyes. As a proof of concept, we demonstrated the efficiency of this strategy in the partial improvement of visual function in the RhoP23H/P23H KI mouse model.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Min Zheng
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Ellen R Weiss
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Zongchao Han
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; Carolina Institute for NanoMedicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.
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37
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Öner A. Recent Advancements in Gene Therapy for Hereditary Retinal Dystrophies. Turk J Ophthalmol 2017; 47:338-343. [PMID: 29326851 PMCID: PMC5758769 DOI: 10.4274/tjo.41017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2017] [Accepted: 04/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Hereditary retinal dystrophies (HRDs) are degenerative diseases of the retina which have marked clinical and genetic heterogeneity. Common presentations among these disorders include night or colour blindness, tunnel vision, and subsequent progression to complete blindness. The known causative disease genes have a variety of developmental and functional roles, with mutations in more than 120 genes shown to be responsible for the phenotypes. In addition, mutations within the same gene have been shown to cause different disease phenotypes, even amongst affected individuals within the same family, highlighting further levels of complexity. The known disease genes encode proteins involved in retinal cellular structures, phototransduction, the visual cycle, and photoreceptor structure or gene regulation. Significant advancements have been made in understanding the genetic pathogenesis of ocular diseases, and gene replacement and gene silencing have been proposed as potentially efficacious therapies. Because of its favorable anatomical and immunological characteristics, the eye has been at the forefront of translational gene therapy. Recent improvements have been made in the safety and specificity of vector-based ocular gene transfer methods. Dozens of promising proofs of concept have been obtained in animal models of HRDs and some of them have been relayed to the clinic. The results from the first clinical trials for a congenital form of blindness have generated great interest and have demonstrated the safety and efficacy of intraocular administrations of viral vectors in humans. This review summarizes the clinical development of retinal gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayşe Öner
- Erciyes University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, Kayseri, Turkey
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38
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Moore NA, Morral N, Ciulla TA, Bracha P. Gene therapy for inherited retinal and optic nerve degenerations. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2017; 18:37-49. [DOI: 10.1080/14712598.2018.1389886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas A. Moore
- Department of Ophthalmology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Nuria Morral
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Thomas A. Ciulla
- Department of Ophthalmology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Retina Service, Midwest Eye Institute, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Peter Bracha
- Department of Ophthalmology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
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39
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Affiliation(s)
- Arthur Planul
- Inserm, Institut de la Vision, UMR S968, 75012 Paris, France;,
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Université Paris 6, UMR S968, 75012 Paris, France
- CNRS, UMR 7210, 75012 Paris, France
| | - Deniz Dalkara
- Inserm, Institut de la Vision, UMR S968, 75012 Paris, France;,
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Université Paris 6, UMR S968, 75012 Paris, France
- CNRS, UMR 7210, 75012 Paris, France
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Correction of Monogenic and Common Retinal Disorders with Gene Therapy. Genes (Basel) 2017; 8:genes8020053. [PMID: 28134823 PMCID: PMC5333042 DOI: 10.3390/genes8020053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2016] [Accepted: 01/19/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The past decade has seen major advances in gene-based therapies, many of which show promise for translation to human disease. At the forefront of research in this field is ocular disease, as the eye lends itself to gene-based interventions due to its accessibility, relatively immune-privileged status, and ability to be non-invasively monitored. A landmark study in 2001 demonstrating successful gene therapy in a large-animal model for Leber congenital amaurosis set the stage for translation of these strategies from the bench to the bedside. Multiple clinical trials have since initiated for various retinal diseases, and further improvements in gene therapy techniques have engendered optimism for alleviating inherited blinding disorders. This article provides an overview of gene-based strategies for retinal disease, current clinical trials that engage these strategies, and the latest techniques in genome engineering, which could serve as the next frontline of therapeutic interventions.
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In vivo genome editing as a potential treatment strategy for inherited retinal dystrophies. Prog Retin Eye Res 2016; 56:1-18. [PMID: 27623223 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2016.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2016] [Revised: 09/06/2016] [Accepted: 09/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
In vivo genome editing represents an emerging field in the treatment of monogenic disorders, as it may constitute a solution to the current hurdles in classic gene addition therapy, which are the low levels and limited duration of transgene expression. Following the introduction of a double strand break (DSB) at the mutational site by highly specific endonucleases, such as TALENs (transcription activator like effector nucleases) or RNA based nucleases (clustered regulatory interspaced short palindromic repeats - CRISPR-Cas), the cell's own DNA repair machinery restores integrity to the DNA strand and corrects the mutant sequence, thus allowing the cell to produce protein levels as needed. The DNA repair happens either through the error prone non-homologous end-joining (NHEJ) pathway or with high fidelity through homology directed repair (HDR) in the presence of a DNA donor template. A third pathway called microhomology mediated endjoining (MMEJ) has been recently discovered. In this review, the authors focus on the different DNA repair mechanisms, the current state of the art tools for genome editing and the particularities of the retina and photoreceptors with regard to in vivo therapeutic approaches. Finally, current attempts in the field of retinal in vivo genome editing are discussed and future directions of research identified.
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Foldvari M, Chen DW. The intricacies of neurotrophic factor therapy for retinal ganglion cell rescue in glaucoma: a case for gene therapy. Neural Regen Res 2016; 11:875-7. [PMID: 27482199 PMCID: PMC4962568 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.184448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Regeneration of damaged retinal ganglion cells (RGC) and their axons is an important aspect of reversing vision loss in glaucoma patients. While current therapies can effectively lower intraocular pressure, they do not provide extrinsic support to RGCs to actively aid in their protection and regeneration. The unmet need could be addressed by neurotrophic factor gene therapy, where plasmid DNA, encoding neurotrophic factors, is delivered to retinal cells to maintain sufficient levels of neurotrophins in the retina. In this review, we aim to describe the intricacies in the design of the therapy including: the choice of neurotrophic factor, the site and route of administration and target cell populations for gene delivery. Furthermore, we also discuss the challenges currently being faced in RGC-related therapy development with special considerations to the existence of multiple RGC subtypes and the lack of efficient and representative in vitro models for rapid and reliable screening in the drug development process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianna Foldvari
- School of Pharmacy, Waterloo Institute of Nanotechnology and Center for Bioengineering and Biotechnology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Ding Wen Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Waterloo Institute of Nanotechnology and Center for Bioengineering and Biotechnology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
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Williams KA, Irani YD. Gene Therapy and Gene Editing for the Corneal Dystrophies. Asia Pac J Ophthalmol (Phila) 2016; 5:312-6. [PMID: 27488074 DOI: 10.1097/apo.0000000000000215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite ever-increasing understanding of the genetic underpinnings of many corneal dystrophies, gene therapy designed to ameliorate disease has not yet been reported in any human patient. In this review, we explore the likely reasons for this apparent failure of translation. We identify the requirements for success: the genetic defect involved must have been identified and mapped, vision in the affected patient must be significantly impaired or likely to be impaired, no better or equivalently effective treatment must be available, the treatment must be capable of modulating corneal pathology, and delivery of the construct to the appropriate cell must be practicable. We consider which of the corneal dystrophies might be amenable to treatment by genetic manipulations, summarize existing therapeutic options for treatment, and explore gene editing using clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat/Cas and other similar transformative technologies as the way of the future. We then summarize recent laboratory-based advances in gene delivery and the development of in vitro and in vivo models of the corneal dystrophies. Finally, we review recent experimental work that has increased our knowledge of the pathobiology of these conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keryn A Williams
- From the Department of Ophthalmology, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
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44
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Dalkara D, Goureau O, Marazova K, Sahel JA. Let There Be Light: Gene and Cell Therapy for Blindness. Hum Gene Ther 2016; 27:134-47. [PMID: 26751519 PMCID: PMC4779297 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2015.147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2015] [Accepted: 01/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal degenerative diseases are a leading cause of irreversible blindness. Retinal cell death is the main cause of vision loss in genetic disorders such as retinitis pigmentosa, Stargardt disease, and Leber congenital amaurosis, as well as in complex age-related diseases such as age-related macular degeneration. For these blinding conditions, gene and cell therapy approaches offer therapeutic intervention at various disease stages. The present review outlines advances in therapies for retinal degenerative disease, focusing on the progress and challenges in the development and clinical translation of gene and cell therapies. A significant body of preclinical evidence and initial clinical results pave the way for further development of these cutting edge treatments for patients with retinal degenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deniz Dalkara
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Université Paris 06, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, France
| | - Olivier Goureau
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Université Paris 06, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, France
| | - Katia Marazova
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Université Paris 06, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, France
| | - José-Alain Sahel
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Université Paris 06, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, France
- Centre Hospitalier National d'Ophtalmologie des Quinze-Vingts, DHU Sight Restore, INSERM-DHOS CIC 1423, France
- Fondation Ophtalmologique Adolphe de Rothschild, Paris, France
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Mitra RN, Zheng M, Han Z. Nanoparticle-motivated gene delivery for ophthalmic application. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. NANOMEDICINE AND NANOBIOTECHNOLOGY 2016; 8:160-74. [PMID: 26109528 PMCID: PMC4688250 DOI: 10.1002/wnan.1356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2015] [Revised: 05/21/2015] [Accepted: 05/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Ophthalmic gene therapy is an intellectual and intentional manipulation of desired gene expression into the specific cells of an eye for the treatment of ophthalmic (ocular) genetic dystrophies and pathological conditions. Exogenous nucleic acids such as DNA, small interfering RNA, micro RNA, and so on, are used for the purpose of managing expression of the desired therapeutic proteins in ocular tissues. The delivery of unprotected nucleic acids into the cells is limited because of exogenous and endogenous degradation modalities. Nanotechnology, a promising and sophisticated cutting edge tool, works as a protective shelter for these therapeutic nucleic acids. They can be safely delivered to the required cells in order to modulate anticipated protein expression. To this end, nanotechnology is seen as a potential and promising strategy in the field of ocular gene delivery. This review focused on current nanotechnology modalities and other promising nonviral strategies being used to deliver therapeutic genes in order to treat various devastating ocular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Min Zheng
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Zongchao Han
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Carolina Institute for NanoMedicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
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46
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Zulliger R, Conley SM, Naash MI. Non-viral therapeutic approaches to ocular diseases: An overview and future directions. J Control Release 2015; 219:471-487. [PMID: 26439665 PMCID: PMC4699668 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2015.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2015] [Revised: 10/01/2015] [Accepted: 10/02/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Currently there are no viable treatment options for patients with debilitating inherited retinal degeneration. The vast variability in disease-inducing mutations and resulting phenotypes has hampered the development of therapeutic interventions. Gene therapy is a logical approach, and recent work has focused on ways to optimize vector design and packaging to promote optimized expression and phenotypic rescue after intraocular delivery. In this review, we discuss ongoing ocular clinical trials, which currently use viral gene delivery, but focus primarily on new advancements in optimizing the efficacy of non-viral gene delivery for ocular diseases. Non-viral delivery systems are highly customizable, allowing functionalization to improve cellular and nuclear uptake, bypassing cellular degradative machinery, and improving gene expression in the nucleus. Non-viral vectors often yield transgene expression levels lower than viral counterparts, however their favorable safety/immune profiles and large DNA capacity (critical for the delivery of large ocular disease genes) make their further development a research priority. Recent work on particle coating and vector engineering presents exciting ways to overcome limitations of transient/low gene expression levels, but also highlights the fact that further refinements are needed before use in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahel Zulliger
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204-5060, United States
| | - Shannon M Conley
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, United States
| | - Muna I Naash
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204-5060, United States.
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47
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Zheng M, Mitra RN, Filonov NA, Han Z. Nanoparticle-mediated rhodopsin cDNA but not intron-containing DNA delivery causes transgene silencing in a rhodopsin knockout model. FASEB J 2015; 30:1076-86. [PMID: 26564956 DOI: 10.1096/fj.15-280511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2015] [Accepted: 10/28/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Previously, we compared the efficacy of nanoparticle (NP)-mediated intron-containing rhodopsin (sgRho) vs. intronless cDNA in ameliorating retinal disease phenotypes in a rhodopsin knockout (RKO) mouse model of retinitis pigmentosa. We showed that NP-mediated sgRho delivery achieved long-term expression and phenotypic improvement in RKO mice, but not NP housing cDNA. However, the protein level of the NP-sgRho construct was only 5-10% of wild-type at 8 mo postinjection. To have a better understanding of the reduced levels of long-term expression of the vectors, in the present study, we evaluated the epigenetic changes of subretinal delivering NP-cDNA vs. NP-sgRho in the RKO mouse eyes. Following the administration, DNA methylation and histone status of specific regions (bacteria plasmid backbone, promoter, rhodopsin gene, and scaffold/matrix attachment region) of the vectors were evaluated at various time points. We documented that epigenetic transgene silencing occurred in vector-mediated gene transfer, which were caused by the plasmid backbone and the cDNA of the transgene, but not the intron-containing transgene. No toxicity or inflammation was found in the treated eyes. Our results suggest that cDNA of the rhodopsin transgene and bacteria backbone interfered with the host defense mechanism of DNA methylation-mediated transgene silencing through heterochromatin-associated modifications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Zheng
- *Department of Ophthalmology and Carolina Institute for NanoMedicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA; and Molecular Therapeutics, University of North Carolina Eshelman School of Pharmacy, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Rajendra N Mitra
- *Department of Ophthalmology and Carolina Institute for NanoMedicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA; and Molecular Therapeutics, University of North Carolina Eshelman School of Pharmacy, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Nazar A Filonov
- *Department of Ophthalmology and Carolina Institute for NanoMedicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA; and Molecular Therapeutics, University of North Carolina Eshelman School of Pharmacy, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Zongchao Han
- *Department of Ophthalmology and Carolina Institute for NanoMedicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA; and Molecular Therapeutics, University of North Carolina Eshelman School of Pharmacy, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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Abstract
Corneal wound healing is a complex process involving cell death, migration, proliferation, differentiation, and extracellular matrix remodeling. Many similarities are observed in the healing processes of corneal epithelial, stromal and endothelial cells, as well as cell-specific differences. Corneal epithelial healing largely depends on limbal stem cells and remodeling of the basement membrane. During stromal healing, keratocytes get transformed to motile and contractile myofibroblasts largely due to activation of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) system. Endothelial cells heal mostly by migration and spreading, with cell proliferation playing a secondary role. In the last decade, many aspects of wound healing process in different parts of the cornea have been elucidated, and some new therapeutic approaches have emerged. The concept of limbal stem cells received rigorous experimental corroboration, with new markers uncovered and new treatment options including gene and microRNA therapy tested in experimental systems. Transplantation of limbal stem cell-enriched cultures for efficient re-epithelialization in stem cell deficiency and corneal injuries has become reality in clinical setting. Mediators and course of events during stromal healing have been detailed, and new treatment regimens including gene (decorin) and stem cell therapy for excessive healing have been designed. This is a very important advance given the popularity of various refractive surgeries entailing stromal wound healing. Successful surgical ways of replacing the diseased endothelium have been clinically tested, and new approaches to accelerate endothelial healing and suppress endothelial-mesenchymal transformation have been proposed including Rho kinase (ROCK) inhibitor eye drops and gene therapy to activate TGF-β inhibitor SMAD7. Promising new technologies with potential for corneal wound healing manipulation including microRNA, induced pluripotent stem cells to generate corneal epithelium, and nanocarriers for corneal drug delivery are discussed. Attention is also paid to problems in wound healing understanding and treatment, such as lack of specific epithelial stem cell markers, reliable identification of stem cells, efficient prevention of haze and stromal scar formation, lack of data on wound regulating microRNAs in keratocytes and endothelial cells, as well as virtual lack of targeted systems for drug and gene delivery to select corneal cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander V Ljubimov
- Eye Program, Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Departments of Biomedical Sciences and Neurosurgery, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Mehrnoosh Saghizadeh
- Eye Program, Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Departments of Biomedical Sciences and Neurosurgery, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Wang Y, Rajala A, Rajala RVS. Lipid Nanoparticles for Ocular Gene Delivery. J Funct Biomater 2015; 6:379-94. [PMID: 26062170 PMCID: PMC4493518 DOI: 10.3390/jfb6020379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2015] [Revised: 06/01/2015] [Accepted: 06/02/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Lipids contain hydrocarbons and are the building blocks of cells. Lipids can naturally form themselves into nano-films and nano-structures, micelles, reverse micelles, and liposomes. Micelles or reverse micelles are monolayer structures, whereas liposomes are bilayer structures. Liposomes have been recognized as carriers for drug delivery. Solid lipid nanoparticles and lipoplex (liposome-polycation-DNA complex), also called lipid nanoparticles, are currently used to deliver drugs and genes to ocular tissues. A solid lipid nanoparticle (SLN) is typically spherical, and possesses a solid lipid core matrix that can solubilize lipophilic molecules. The lipid nanoparticle, called the liposome protamine/DNA lipoplex (LPD), is electrostatically assembled from cationic liposomes and an anionic protamine-DNA complex. The LPD nanoparticles contain a highly condensed DNA core surrounded by lipid bilayers. SLNs are extensively used to deliver drugs to the cornea. LPD nanoparticles are used to target the retina. Age-related macular degeneration, retinitis pigmentosa, and diabetic retinopathy are the most common retinal diseases in humans. There have also been promising results achieved recently with LPD nanoparticles to deliver functional genes and micro RNA to treat retinal diseases. Here, we review recent advances in ocular drug and gene delivery employing lipid nanoparticles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhong Wang
- Dean A. McGee Eye Institute, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA.
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City, OK 73014, USA.
| | - Ammaji Rajala
- Dean A. McGee Eye Institute, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA.
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City, OK 73014, USA.
| | - Raju V S Rajala
- Dean A. McGee Eye Institute, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA.
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City, OK 73014, USA.
- Department of Physiology and Harold Hamm Diabetes Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73014, USA.
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50
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Abstract
Clinical trials treating inherited retinal dystrophy caused by RPE65 mutations had put retinal gene therapy at the forefront of gene therapy. Both successes and limitations in these clinical trials have fueled developments in gene vectors, which continue to further advance the field. These novel gene vectors aim to more safely and efficiently transduce retinal cells, expand the gene packaging capacity of AAV, and utilize new strategies to correct the varying mechanisms of dysfunction found with inherited retinal dystrophies. With recent clinical trials and numerous pre-clinical studies utilizing these novel vectors, the future of ocular gene therapy continues to hold vast potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristy A Ku
- Center for Neuroscience, Robert C. Byrd Health Sciences Center, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia, 26505, USA
| | - Mark E Pennesi
- Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
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