1
|
Sayour EJ, Boczkowski D, Mitchell DA, Nair SK. Cancer mRNA vaccines: clinical advances and future opportunities. Nat Rev Clin Oncol 2024:10.1038/s41571-024-00902-1. [PMID: 38760500 DOI: 10.1038/s41571-024-00902-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
mRNA vaccines have been revolutionary in terms of their rapid development and prevention of SARS-CoV-2 infections during the COVID-19 pandemic, and this technology has considerable potential for application to the treatment of cancer. Compared with traditional cancer vaccines based on proteins or peptides, mRNA vaccines reconcile the needs for both personalization and commercialization in a manner that is unique to each patient but not beholden to their HLA haplotype. A further advantage of mRNA vaccines is the availability of engineering strategies to improve their stability while retaining immunogenicity, enabling the induction of complementary innate and adaptive immune responses. Thus far, no mRNA-based cancer vaccines have received regulatory approval, although several phase I-II trials have yielded promising results, including in historically poorly immunogenic tumours. Furthermore, many early phase trials testing a wide range of vaccine designs are currently ongoing. In this Review, we describe the advantages of cancer mRNA vaccines and advances in clinical trials using both cell-based and nanoparticle-based delivery methods, with discussions of future combinations and iterations that might optimize the activity of these agents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elias J Sayour
- Preston A. Wells Jr. Center for Brain Tumour Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
- Lillian S. Wells Department of Neurosurgery, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - David Boczkowski
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Duane A Mitchell
- Preston A. Wells Jr. Center for Brain Tumour Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
- Lillian S. Wells Department of Neurosurgery, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Smita K Nair
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA.
- Department of Neurosurgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA.
- Department of Pathology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA.
- Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Shaw I, Boafo GF, Ali YS, Liu Y, Mlambo R, Tan S, Chen C. Advancements and prospects of lipid-based nanoparticles: dual frontiers in cancer treatment and vaccine development. J Microencapsul 2024; 41:226-254. [PMID: 38560994 DOI: 10.1080/02652048.2024.2326091] [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: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Cancer is a complex heterogeneous disease that poses a significant public health challenge. In recent years, lipid-based nanoparticles (LBNPs) have expanded drug delivery and vaccine development options owing to their adaptable, non-toxic, tuneable physicochemical properties, versatile surface functionalisation, and biocompatibility. LBNPs are tiny artificial structures composed of lipid-like materials that can be engineered to encapsulate and deliver therapeutic agents with pinpoint accuracy. They have been widely explored in oncology; however, our understanding of their pharmacological mechanisms, effects of their composition, charge, and size on cellular uptake, tumour penetration, and how they can be utilised to develop cancer vaccines is still limited. Hence, we reviewed LBNPs' unique characteristics, biochemical features, and tumour-targeting mechanisms. Furthermore, we examined their ability to enhance cancer therapies and their potential contribution in developing anticancer vaccines. We critically analysed their advantages and challenges impeding swift advancements in oncology and highlighted promising avenues for future research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ibrahim Shaw
- Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - George Frimpong Boafo
- Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Yimer Seid Ali
- Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Science, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Yang Liu
- Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Ronald Mlambo
- Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Songwen Tan
- Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Chuanpin Chen
- Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Sheikhlary S, Lopez DH, Moghimi S, Sun B. Recent Findings on Therapeutic Cancer Vaccines: An Updated Review. Biomolecules 2024; 14:503. [PMID: 38672519 PMCID: PMC11048403 DOI: 10.3390/biom14040503] [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: 02/23/2024] [Revised: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer remains one of the global leading causes of death and various vaccines have been developed over the years against it, including cell-based, nucleic acid-based, and viral-based cancer vaccines. Although many vaccines have been effective in in vivo and clinical studies and some have been FDA-approved, there are major limitations to overcome: (1) developing one universal vaccine for a specific cancer is difficult, as tumors with different antigens are different for different individuals, (2) the tumor antigens may be similar to the body's own antigens, and (3) there is the possibility of cancer recurrence. Therefore, developing personalized cancer vaccines with the ability to distinguish between the tumor and the body's antigens is indispensable. This paper provides a comprehensive review of different types of cancer vaccines and highlights important factors necessary for developing efficient cancer vaccines. Moreover, the application of other technologies in cancer therapy is discussed. Finally, several insights and conclusions are presented, such as the possibility of using cold plasma and cancer stem cells in developing future cancer vaccines, to tackle the major limitations in the cancer vaccine developmental process.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Sheikhlary
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
| | - David Humberto Lopez
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA; (D.H.L.); (S.M.)
| | - Sophia Moghimi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA; (D.H.L.); (S.M.)
| | - Bo Sun
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA; (D.H.L.); (S.M.)
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Foley CR, Swan SL, Swartz MA. Engineering Challenges and Opportunities in Autologous Cellular Cancer Immunotherapy. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2024; 212:188-198. [PMID: 38166251 PMCID: PMC11155266 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2300642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/04/2024]
Abstract
The use of a patient's own immune or tumor cells, manipulated ex vivo, enables Ag- or patient-specific immunotherapy. Despite some clinical successes, there remain significant barriers to efficacy, broad patient population applicability, and safety. Immunotherapies that target specific tumor Ags, such as chimeric Ag receptor T cells and some dendritic cell vaccines, can mount robust immune responses against immunodominant Ags, but evolving tumor heterogeneity and antigenic downregulation can drive resistance. In contrast, whole tumor cell vaccines and tumor lysate-loaded dendritic cell vaccines target the patient's unique tumor antigenic repertoire without prior neoantigen selection; however, efficacy can be weak when lower-affinity clones dominate the T cell pool. Chimeric Ag receptor T cell and tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte therapies additionally face challenges related to genetic modification, T cell exhaustion, and immunotoxicity. In this review, we highlight some engineering approaches and opportunities to these challenges among four classes of autologous cell therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Colleen R. Foley
- Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Sheridan L. Swan
- Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Melody A. Swartz
- Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
- Committee on Immunology, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
- Ben May Department of Cancer Research, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Qian D, Liu Y, Zheng J, Cai J. Dendritic cell therapy for neurospoagioma: Immunomodulation mediated by tumor vaccine. Cell Death Discov 2024; 10:11. [PMID: 38184649 PMCID: PMC10771477 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-023-01782-7] [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: 08/06/2023] [Revised: 12/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Neurospagioma, arising from different glial cells such as astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and ependymal cells, stands as the prevalent intracranial tumor within the central nervous system. Among its variants, glioblastoma (GBM) represents the most aggressive form, characterized by a notably high occurrence rate and a discouragingly low survival prognosis. The formidable challenge posed by glioblastoma underscores its critical importance as a life-threatening ailment. Currently, clinical approaches often involve surgical excision along with a combination of radiotherapy and chemotherapy. However, these treatments frequently result in a notable recurrence rate, accompanied by substantial adverse effects that significantly compromise the overall prognosis. Hence, there is a crucial need to investigate novel and dependable treatment strategies. Dendritic cells (DCs), being specialized antigen-presenting cells (APCs), hold a significant position in both innate and adaptive immune responses. Presently, DC vaccines have gained widespread application in the treatment of various tumors, including neurospoagioma. In this review, we summarize the immunomodulatory effects and related mechanisms of DC vaccines in neurospoagioma as well as the progress of clinical trials to propose possible challenges of DC vaccines and new development directions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Da Qian
- Department of Burn and Plastic Surgery-Hand Surgery, Changshu Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University, Changshu No.1 People's Hospital, Changshu, 215500, Jiangsu Province, China.
| | - Yuxiang Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, 150086, Harbin, China
| | - Jie Zheng
- Department of Burn and Plastic Surgery-Hand Surgery, Changshu Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University, Changshu No.1 People's Hospital, Changshu, 215500, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Jinquan Cai
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, 150086, Harbin, China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Janes ME, Gottlieb AP, Park KS, Zhao Z, Mitragotri S. Cancer vaccines in the clinic. Bioeng Transl Med 2024; 9:e10588. [PMID: 38193112 PMCID: PMC10771564 DOI: 10.1002/btm2.10588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Vaccines are an important tool in the rapidly evolving repertoire of immunotherapies in oncology. Although cancer vaccines have been investigated for over 30 years, very few have achieved meaningful clinical success. However, recent advances in areas such antigen identification, formulation development and manufacturing, combination therapy regimens, and indication and patient selection hold promise to reinvigorate the field. Here, we provide a timely update on the clinical status of cancer vaccines. We identify and critically analyze 360 active trials of cancer vaccines according to delivery vehicle, antigen type, indication, and other metrics, as well as highlight eight globally approved products. Finally, we discuss current limitations and future applications for clinical translation of cancer vaccines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Morgan E. Janes
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering & Applied Sciences, Harvard UniversityCambridgeMassachusettsUSA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired EngineeringBostonMassachusettsUSA
- Harvard‐MIT Division of Health Sciences and Technology, Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeMassachusettsUSA
| | - Alexander P. Gottlieb
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering & Applied Sciences, Harvard UniversityCambridgeMassachusettsUSA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired EngineeringBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Kyung Soo Park
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering & Applied Sciences, Harvard UniversityCambridgeMassachusettsUSA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired EngineeringBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Zongmin Zhao
- Department of Pharmaceutical SciencesCollege of Pharmacy, University of Illinois ChicagoChicagoIllinoisUSA
- University of Illinois Cancer CenterChicagoIllinoisUSA
| | - Samir Mitragotri
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering & Applied Sciences, Harvard UniversityCambridgeMassachusettsUSA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired EngineeringBostonMassachusettsUSA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Miliotou AN, Georgiou-Siafis SK, Ntenti C, Pappas IS, Papadopoulou LC. Recruiting In Vitro Transcribed mRNA against Cancer Immunotherapy: A Contemporary Appraisal of the Current Landscape. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2023; 45:9181-9214. [PMID: 37998753 PMCID: PMC10670245 DOI: 10.3390/cimb45110576] [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: 10/15/2023] [Revised: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Over 100 innovative in vitro transcribed (IVT)-mRNAs are presently undergoing clinical trials, with a projected substantial impact on the pharmaceutical market in the near future. Τhe idea behind this is that after the successful cellular internalization of IVT-mRNAs, they are subsequently translated into proteins with therapeutic or prophylactic relevance. Simultaneously, cancer immunotherapy employs diverse strategies to mobilize the immune system in the battle against cancer. Therefore, in this review, the fundamental principles of IVT-mRNA to its recruitment in cancer immunotherapy, are discussed and analyzed. More specifically, this review paper focuses on the development of mRNA vaccines, the exploitation of neoantigens, as well as Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T-Cells, showcasing their clinical applications and the ongoing trials for the development of next-generation immunotherapeutics. Furthermore, this study investigates the synergistic potential of combining the CAR immunotherapy and the IVT-mRNAs by introducing our research group novel, patented delivery method that utilizes the Protein Transduction Domain (PTD) technology to transduce the IVT-mRNAs encoding the CAR of interest into the Natural Killer (NK)-92 cells, highlighting the potential for enhancing the CAR NK cell potency, efficiency, and bioenergetics. While IVT-mRNA technology brings exciting progress to cancer immunotherapy, several challenges and limitations must be acknowledged, such as safety, toxicity, and delivery issues. This comprehensive exploration of IVT-mRNA technology, in line with its applications in cancer therapeutics, offers valuable insights into the opportunities and challenges in the evolving landscape of cancer immunotherapy, setting the stage for future advancements in the field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Androulla N. Miliotou
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Macedonia, Greece; (A.N.M.); (S.K.G.-S.); (C.N.)
- Department of Health Sciences, KES College, 1055 Nicosia, Cyprus
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Health Sciences, University of Nicosia, 1700 Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Sofia K. Georgiou-Siafis
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Macedonia, Greece; (A.N.M.); (S.K.G.-S.); (C.N.)
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Thessaly, 43100 Karditsa, Thessaly, Greece;
| | - Charikleia Ntenti
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Macedonia, Greece; (A.N.M.); (S.K.G.-S.); (C.N.)
- 1st Laboratory of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Macedonia, Greece
| | - Ioannis S. Pappas
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Thessaly, 43100 Karditsa, Thessaly, Greece;
| | - Lefkothea C. Papadopoulou
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Macedonia, Greece; (A.N.M.); (S.K.G.-S.); (C.N.)
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Sun Z, Zhang L, Liu L. Reprogramming the lipid metabolism of dendritic cells in tumor immunomodulation and immunotherapy. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 167:115574. [PMID: 37757492 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Dendritic cells (DCs) are the most potent antigen-presenting cells in the human body. They detect and process environmental signals and communicate with T cells to bridge innate and adaptive immunity. Cell activation, function, and survival are closely associated with cellular metabolism. An increasing number of studies have revealed that lipid metabolism affects DC activation as well as innate and acquired immune responses. Combining lipid metabolic regulation with immunotherapy can strengthen the ability of antigen-presentation and T-cell activation of DCs, improve the existing anti-tumor therapy, and overcome the defects of DC-related therapies in the current stage, which has great potential in cancer therapy. This review summarizes the lipid metabolism of DCs under physiological conditions, analyzes the role of reprogramming the lipid metabolism of DCs in tumor immune regulation, and discusses potential immunotherapeutic strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhanbo Sun
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China
| | - Lingyun Zhang
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110001, China
| | - Lixian Liu
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Lu J, Wei W, He W. Regulatory perspective for quality evaluation of lipid nanoparticle-based mRNA vaccines in China. Biologicals 2023; 84:101700. [PMID: 37708679 DOI: 10.1016/j.biologicals.2023.101700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, urgent unmet medical needs due to the COVID-19 pandemic have accelerated the application of mRNA technology in vaccine development, leading to some of the first approvals of mRNA vaccines in human history by regulatory agencies around the world. For market authorization, comprehensive chemistry, manufacturing and control (CMC) information is required to assure the safety and quality consistency of mRNA vaccines. Evaluating mRNA vaccines for new virus variants poses a challenge for regulators, given the rapid optimization and development based on prior platform knowledge to accelerate the development process, which is traditionally limited for biological products. Here we summarize the current regulatory considerations of CMC evaluation on mRNA vaccines based on the scientific knowledge available, which will be updated with the advance of mRNA biology and pharmaceutical science.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiaqi Lu
- Center for Drug Evaluation, National Medical Products Administration, 128 Jianguo Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Wei
- Center for Drug Evaluation, National Medical Products Administration, 128 Jianguo Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, China.
| | - Wu He
- Center for Drug Evaluation, National Medical Products Administration, 128 Jianguo Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Yang L, Zhuang L, Ye Z, Li L, Guan J, Gong W. Immunotherapy and biomarkers in patients with lung cancer with tuberculosis: Recent advances and future Directions. iScience 2023; 26:107881. [PMID: 37841590 PMCID: PMC10570004 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.107881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer (LC) and tuberculosis (TB) are two major global public health problems, and the incidence of LC-TB is currently on the rise. Therefore effective clinical interventions are crucial for LC-TB. The aim of this review is to provide up-to-date information on the immunological profile and therapeutic biomarkers in patients with LC-TB. We discuss the immune mechanisms involved, including the immune checkpoints that play an important role in the treatment of patients with LC-TB. In addition, we explore the susceptibility of patients with LC to TB and summarise the latest research on LC-TB. Finally, we discuss future prospects in this field, including the identification of potential targets for immune intervention. In conclusion, this review provides important insights into the complex relationship between LC and TB and highlights new advances in the detection and treatment of both diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ling Yang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of New Techniques of Tuberculosis Diagnosis and Treatment, Senior Department of Tuberculosis, Eighth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100091, China
- Hebei North University, Zhangjiakou, Hebei 075000, China
- Senior Department of Oncology, Fifth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100071, China
| | - Li Zhuang
- Hebei North University, Zhangjiakou, Hebei 075000, China
| | - Zhaoyang Ye
- Hebei North University, Zhangjiakou, Hebei 075000, China
| | - Linsheng Li
- Hebei North University, Zhangjiakou, Hebei 075000, China
| | - Jingzhi Guan
- Senior Department of Oncology, Fifth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100071, China
| | - Wenping Gong
- Beijing Key Laboratory of New Techniques of Tuberculosis Diagnosis and Treatment, Senior Department of Tuberculosis, Eighth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100091, China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Wang YS, Kumari M, Chen GH, Hong MH, Yuan JPY, Tsai JL, Wu HC. mRNA-based vaccines and therapeutics: an in-depth survey of current and upcoming clinical applications. J Biomed Sci 2023; 30:84. [PMID: 37805495 PMCID: PMC10559634 DOI: 10.1186/s12929-023-00977-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/09/2023] Open
Abstract
mRNA-based drugs have tremendous potential as clinical treatments, however, a major challenge in realizing this drug class will promise to develop methods for safely delivering the bioactive agents with high efficiency and without activating the immune system. With regard to mRNA vaccines, researchers have modified the mRNA structure to enhance its stability and promote systemic tolerance of antigenic presentation in non-inflammatory contexts. Still, delivery of naked modified mRNAs is inefficient and results in low levels of antigen protein production. As such, lipid nanoparticles have been utilized to improve delivery and protect the mRNA cargo from extracellular degradation. This advance was a major milestone in the development of mRNA vaccines and dispelled skepticism about the potential of this technology to yield clinically approved medicines. Following the resounding success of mRNA vaccines for COVID-19, many other mRNA-based drugs have been proposed for the treatment of a variety of diseases. This review begins with a discussion of mRNA modifications and delivery vehicles, as well as the factors that influence administration routes. Then, we summarize the potential applications of mRNA-based drugs and discuss further key points pertaining to preclinical and clinical development of mRNA drugs targeting a wide range of diseases. Finally, we discuss the latest market trends and future applications of mRNA-based drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Shiuan Wang
- Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, No. 128, Academia Road, Section 2, Nankang, Taipei, 11529, Taiwan
| | - Monika Kumari
- Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, No. 128, Academia Road, Section 2, Nankang, Taipei, 11529, Taiwan
| | - Guan-Hong Chen
- Biomedical Translation Research Center (BioTReC), Academia Sinica, Taipei, 11571, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Hsiang Hong
- Biomedical Translation Research Center (BioTReC), Academia Sinica, Taipei, 11571, Taiwan
| | - Joyce Pei-Yi Yuan
- Biomedical Translation Research Center (BioTReC), Academia Sinica, Taipei, 11571, Taiwan
| | - Jui-Ling Tsai
- Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, No. 128, Academia Road, Section 2, Nankang, Taipei, 11529, Taiwan
| | - Han-Chung Wu
- Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, No. 128, Academia Road, Section 2, Nankang, Taipei, 11529, Taiwan.
- Biomedical Translation Research Center (BioTReC), Academia Sinica, Taipei, 11571, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Zhang A, Ji Q, Sheng X, Wu H. mRNA vaccine in gastrointestinal tumors: Immunomodulatory effects and immunotherapy. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 166:115361. [PMID: 37660645 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Gastrointestinal tumors remain a significant healthcare burden worldwide, necessitating the development of innovative therapeutic strategies. mRNA vaccines have emerged as a promising approach in cancer immunotherapy, harnessing the immune system's potential to recognize and eliminate tumor cells. mRNA vaccines offer several advantages, including their ability to elicit both innate and adaptive immune responses, ease of production, and adaptability to different tumor types. In the context of gastrointestinal tumors, mRNA vaccines hold great potential as a therapeutic strategy. In this review, we will delve into the immunomodulatory mechanisms and immunotherapy strategies of mRNA vaccines in gastrointestinal tumors. Additionally, we will discuss the challenges and ongoing research efforts in optimizing mRNA vaccine development, delivery, and stability. By understanding the potential of mRNA vaccines in addressing the unmet medical need of gastrointestinal tumors, we aim to pave the way for improved treatment strategies and better patient outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ao Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China
| | - Qingming Ji
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China
| | - Xia Sheng
- Department of Cadre Ward, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China
| | - Hui Wu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Ankrah PK, Ilesanmi A, Akinyemi AO, Lasehinde V, Adurosakin OE, Ajayi OH. Clinical Analysis and Applications of mRNA Vaccines in Infectious Diseases and Cancer Treatment. Cureus 2023; 15:e46354. [PMID: 37920621 PMCID: PMC10619190 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.46354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Vaccination, for centuries, has been a potent preventive technique to treat morbidities. The messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccine technology is an innovative biomedical approach utilized in developing antigen-specific vaccines that can generate adaptive immune responses, triggering both humoral and cellular immunity to enhance the body's defense against specific infections. This review provides a comprehensive, comparative analysis of mRNA vaccine technology and conventional vaccines by focusing on the structures, components, and classifications. An exploratory analysis of the similarities and differences between mRNA vaccine technology and live-attenuated vaccines highlights the mechanisms by which mRNA vaccines elicit immune responses. This review extensively discusses the production, stability, synthesis, and delivery processes associated with mRNA vaccines, showcasing the advancements and technological superiority of this approach over conventional vaccine technologies. Additionally, the potential of mRNA vaccine technology as a potent alternative for the development of vaccine candidates targeting HIV and cancer is examined.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ajibola Ilesanmi
- Center for Human Systems Immunology, Duke University, Durham, USA
| | - Amos O Akinyemi
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, USA
| | - Victor Lasehinde
- Department of Biology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, USA
| | | | - Oluwatobi H Ajayi
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Duke Human Vaccine Institute, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Cornista AM, Giolito MV, Baker K, Hazime H, Dufait I, Datta J, Khumukcham SS, De Ridder M, Roper J, Abreu MT, Breckpot K, Van der Jeught K. Colorectal Cancer Immunotherapy: State of the Art and Future Directions. GASTRO HEP ADVANCES 2023; 2:1103-1119. [PMID: 38098742 PMCID: PMC10721132 DOI: 10.1016/j.gastha.2023.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy has become an indispensable mode of treatment for a multitude of solid tumor cancers. Colorectal cancer (CRC) has been one of the many cancer types to benefit from immunotherapy, especially in advanced disease where standard treatment fails to prevent recurrence or results in poor survival. The efficacy of immunotherapy in CRC has not been without challenge, as early clinical trials observed dismal responses in unselected CRC patients treated with checkpoint inhibitors. Many studies and clinical trials have since refined immunotherapies available for CRC, solidifying immunotherapy as a powerful asset for CRC treatment. This review article examines CRC immunotherapies, from their foundation, through emerging avenues for improvement, to future directions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alyssa Mauri Cornista
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
| | - Maria Virginia Giolito
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Kristi Baker
- Department of Oncology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Hajar Hazime
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
| | - Inès Dufait
- Department of Radiotherapy, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jashodeep Datta
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami, Miami, Florida
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Dewitt Daughtry Department of Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
| | - Saratchandra Singh Khumukcham
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Mark De Ridder
- Department of Radiotherapy, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jatin Roper
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Maria T. Abreu
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami, Miami, Florida
| | - Karine Breckpot
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Kevin Van der Jeught
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami, Miami, Florida
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Ramirez F, Zambrano A, Hennis R, Holland N, Lakshmanaswamy R, Chacon J. Sending a Message: Use of mRNA Vaccines to Target the Tumor Immune Microenvironment. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:1465. [PMID: 37766141 PMCID: PMC10534833 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11091465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
While cancer immunotherapies have become central to treatment, challenges associated with the ability of tumors to evade the immune system remain significant obstacles. At the heart of this issue is the tumor immune microenvironment, the complex interplay of the tumor microenvironment and the immune response. Recent advances in mRNA cancer vaccines represent major progress towards overcoming some of the challenges posed by deleterious components of the tumor immune microenvironment. Indeed, major breakthroughs in mRNA vaccine technology, such as the use of replacement nucleotides and lipid nanoparticle delivery, led to the vital success of mRNA vaccine technology in fighting COVID-19. This has in turn generated massive additional interest and investment in the platform. In this review, we detail recent research in the nature of the tumor immune microenvironment and in mRNA cancer vaccines and discuss applications by which mRNA cancer vaccines, often in combination with various adjuvants, represent major areas of potential in overcoming tumor immune microenvironment-imposed obstacles. To this end, we also review current mRNA cancer vaccine clinical trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fabiola Ramirez
- Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, El Paso, TX 79905, USA; (F.R.); (A.Z.); (R.H.); (N.H.); (R.L.)
| | - Angelica Zambrano
- Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, El Paso, TX 79905, USA; (F.R.); (A.Z.); (R.H.); (N.H.); (R.L.)
| | - Robert Hennis
- Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, El Paso, TX 79905, USA; (F.R.); (A.Z.); (R.H.); (N.H.); (R.L.)
| | - Nathan Holland
- Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, El Paso, TX 79905, USA; (F.R.); (A.Z.); (R.H.); (N.H.); (R.L.)
| | - Rajkumar Lakshmanaswamy
- Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, El Paso, TX 79905, USA; (F.R.); (A.Z.); (R.H.); (N.H.); (R.L.)
- L. Frederick Francis Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, El Paso, TX 79905, USA
| | - Jessica Chacon
- Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, El Paso, TX 79905, USA; (F.R.); (A.Z.); (R.H.); (N.H.); (R.L.)
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Lee KW, Yam JWP, Mao X. Dendritic Cell Vaccines: A Shift from Conventional Approach to New Generations. Cells 2023; 12:2147. [PMID: 37681880 PMCID: PMC10486560 DOI: 10.3390/cells12172147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
In the emerging era of cancer immunotherapy, immune checkpoint blockades (ICBs) and adoptive cell transfer therapies (ACTs) have gained significant attention. However, their therapeutic efficacies are limited due to the presence of cold type tumors, immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, and immune-related side effects. On the other hand, dendritic cell (DC)-based vaccines have been suggested as a new cancer immunotherapy regimen that can address the limitations encountered by ICBs and ACTs. Despite the success of the first generation of DC-based vaccines, represented by the first FDA-approved DC-based therapeutic cancer vaccine Provenge, several challenges remain unsolved. Therefore, new DC vaccine strategies have been actively investigated. This review addresses the limitations of the currently most adopted classical DC vaccine and evaluates new generations of DC vaccines in detail, including biomaterial-based, immunogenic cell death-inducing, mRNA-pulsed, DC small extracellular vesicle (sEV)-based, and tumor sEV-based DC vaccines. These innovative DC vaccines are envisioned to provide a significant breakthrough in cancer immunotherapy landscape and are expected to be supported by further preclinical and clinical studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kyu-Won Lee
- Department of Pathology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong; (K.-W.L.); (J.W.P.Y.)
| | - Judy Wai Ping Yam
- Department of Pathology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong; (K.-W.L.); (J.W.P.Y.)
- State Key Laboratory of Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Xiaowen Mao
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Yihunie W, Nibret G, Aschale Y. Recent Advances in Messenger Ribonucleic Acid (mRNA) Vaccines and Their Delivery Systems: A Review. Clin Pharmacol 2023; 15:77-98. [PMID: 37554660 PMCID: PMC10405914 DOI: 10.2147/cpaa.s418314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) was found as the intermediary that transfers genetic information from DNA to ribosomes for protein synthesis in 1961. The emergency use authorization of the two covid-19 mRNA vaccines, BNT162b2 and mRNA-1273, is a significant achievement in the history of vaccine development. Because they are generated in a cell-free environment using the in vitro transcription (IVT) process, mRNA vaccines are risk-free. Moreover, chemical modifications to the mRNA molecule, such as cap structures and changed nucleosides, have proved critical in overcoming immunogenicity concerns, achieving sustained stability, and achieving effective, accurate protein production in vivo. Several vaccine delivery strategies (including protamine, lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), polymers, nanoemulsions, and cell-based administration) were also optimized to load and transport RNA into the cytosol. LNPs, which are composed of a cationic or a pH-dependent ionizable lipid layer, a polyethylene glycol (PEG) component, phospholipids, and cholesterol, are the most advanced systems for delivering mRNA vaccines. Moreover, modifications of the four components that make up the LNPs showed to increase vaccine effectiveness and reduce side effects. Furthermore, the introduction of biodegradable lipids improved LNP biocompatibility. Furthermore, mRNA-based therapies are expected to be effective treatments for a variety of refractory conditions, including infectious diseases, metabolic genetic diseases, cancer, cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Therefore, the present review aims to provide the scientific community with up-to-date information on mRNA vaccines and their delivery systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wubetu Yihunie
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
| | - Getinet Nibret
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
| | - Yibeltal Aschale
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Health Sciences, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Najafi S, Mortezaee K. Advances in dendritic cell vaccination therapy of cancer. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 164:114954. [PMID: 37257227 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Traditionally, vaccines have helped eradication of several infectious diseases and also saved millions of lives in the human history. Those prophylactic vaccines have acted through inducing immune responses against a live attenuated, killed organism or antigenic subunits to protect the recipient against a real infection caused by the pathogenic microorganism. Nevertheless, development of anticancer vaccines as valuable targets in human health has faced challenges and requires further optimizations. Dendritic cells (DCs) are the most potent antigen presenting cells (APCs) that play essential roles in tumor immunotherapies through induction of CD8+ T cell immunity. Accordingly, various strategies have been tested to employ DCs as therapeutic vaccines for exploiting their activity against tumor cells. Application of whole tumor cells or purified/recombinant antigen peptides are the most common approaches for pulsing DCs, which then are injected back into the patients. Although some hopeful results are reported for a number of DC vaccines tested in animal and clinical trials of cancer patients, such approaches are still inefficient and require optimization. Failure of DC vaccination is postulated due to immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME), overexpression of checkpoint proteins, suboptimal avidity of tumor-associated antigen (TAA)-specific T lymphocytes, and lack of appropriate adjuvants. In this review, we have an overview of the current experiments and trials evaluated the anticancer efficacy of DC vaccination as well as focusing on strategies to improve their potential including combination therapy with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sajad Najafi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Keywan Mortezaee
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Zhuang L, Ye Z, Li L, Yang L, Gong W. Next-Generation TB Vaccines: Progress, Challenges, and Prospects. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:1304. [PMID: 37631874 PMCID: PMC10457792 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11081304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Tuberculosis (TB), caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB), is a prevalent global infectious disease and a leading cause of mortality worldwide. Currently, the only available vaccine for TB prevention is Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG). However, BCG demonstrates limited efficacy, particularly in adults. Efforts to develop effective TB vaccines have been ongoing for nearly a century. In this review, we have examined the current obstacles in TB vaccine research and emphasized the significance of understanding the interaction mechanism between MTB and hosts in order to provide new avenues for research and establish a solid foundation for the development of novel vaccines. We have also assessed various TB vaccine candidates, including inactivated vaccines, attenuated live vaccines, subunit vaccines, viral vector vaccines, DNA vaccines, and the emerging mRNA vaccines as well as virus-like particle (VLP)-based vaccines, which are currently in preclinical stages or clinical trials. Furthermore, we have discussed the challenges and opportunities associated with developing different types of TB vaccines and outlined future directions for TB vaccine research, aiming to expedite the development of effective vaccines. This comprehensive review offers a summary of the progress made in the field of novel TB vaccines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Li Zhuang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of New Techniques of Tuberculosis Diagnosis and Treatment, Senior Department of Tuberculosis, Eighth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100091, China
- Hebei North University, Zhangjiakou 075000, China
| | - Zhaoyang Ye
- Hebei North University, Zhangjiakou 075000, China
| | - Linsheng Li
- Hebei North University, Zhangjiakou 075000, China
| | - Ling Yang
- Hebei North University, Zhangjiakou 075000, China
| | - Wenping Gong
- Beijing Key Laboratory of New Techniques of Tuberculosis Diagnosis and Treatment, Senior Department of Tuberculosis, Eighth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100091, China
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Huang Y, Zhu X, Guo X, Zhou Y, Liu D, Mao J, Xiong Y, Deng Y, Gao X. Advances in mRNA vaccines for viral diseases. J Med Virol 2023; 95:e28924. [PMID: 37417396 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.28924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
Since the onset of the pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines have demonstrated outstanding performance. mRNA vaccines offer significant advantages over conventional vaccines in production speed and cost-effectiveness, making them an attractive option against other viral diseases. This article reviewed recent advances in viral mRNA vaccines and their delivery systems to provide references and guidance for developing mRNA vaccines for new viral diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yukai Huang
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Xuerui Zhu
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Xiao Guo
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Yuancheng Zhou
- Livestock and Poultry Biological Products Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Animal Science Academy, Chengdu, China
| | - Dongying Liu
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Jingrui Mao
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Yongai Xiong
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Youcai Deng
- Department of Hematology, College of Pharmacy, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Xinghong Gao
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
- Provincial Department of Education, Key Laboratory of Infectious Disease & Bio-Safety, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Liu C, Shi Q, Huang X, Koo S, Kong N, Tao W. mRNA-based cancer therapeutics. Nat Rev Cancer 2023:10.1038/s41568-023-00586-2. [PMID: 37311817 DOI: 10.1038/s41568-023-00586-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 58.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Due to the fact that mRNA technology allows the production of diverse vaccines and treatments in a shorter time frame and with reduced expense compared to conventional approaches, there has been a surge in the use of mRNA-based therapeutics in recent years. With the aim of encoding tumour antigens for cancer vaccines, cytokines for immunotherapy, tumour suppressors to inhibit tumour development, chimeric antigen receptors for engineered T cell therapy or genome-editing proteins for gene therapy, many of these therapeutics have shown promising efficacy in preclinical studies, and some have even entered clinical trials. Given the evidence supporting the effectiveness and safety of clinically approved mRNA vaccines, coupled with growing interest in mRNA-based therapeutics, mRNA technology is poised to become one of the major pillars in cancer drug development. In this Review, we present in vitro transcribed mRNA-based therapeutics for cancer treatment, including the characteristics of the various types of synthetic mRNA, the packaging systems for efficient mRNA delivery, preclinical and clinical studies, current challenges and future prospects in the field. We anticipate the translation of promising mRNA-based treatments into clinical applications, to ultimately benefit patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chuang Liu
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anaesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Qiangqiang Shi
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anaesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiangang Huang
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anaesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Seyoung Koo
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anaesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Na Kong
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anaesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Wei Tao
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anaesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Dong H, Li Q, Zhang Y, Ding M, Teng Z, Mou Y. Biomaterials Facilitating Dendritic Cell-Mediated Cancer Immunotherapy. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2301339. [PMID: 37088780 PMCID: PMC10288267 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202301339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Dendritic cell (DC)-based cancer immunotherapy has exhibited remarkable clinical prospects because DCs play a central role in initiating and regulating adaptive immune responses. However, the application of traditional DC-mediated immunotherapy is limited due to insufficient antigen delivery, inadequate antigen presentation, and high levels of immunosuppression. To address these challenges, engineered biomaterials have been exploited to enhance DC-mediated immunotherapeutic effects. In this review, vital principal components that can enhance DC-mediated immunotherapeutic effects are first introduced. The parameters considered in the rational design of biomaterials, including targeting modifications, size, shape, surface, and mechanical properties, which can affect biomaterial optimization of DC functions, are further summarized. Moreover, recent applications of various engineered biomaterials in the field of DC-mediated immunotherapy are reviewed, including those serve as immune component delivery platforms, remodel the tumor microenvironment, and synergistically enhance the effects of other antitumor therapies. Overall, the present review comprehensively and systematically summarizes biomaterials related to the promotion of DC functions; and specifically focuses on the recent advances in biomaterial designs for DC activation to eradicate tumors. The challenges and opportunities of treatment strategies designed to amplify DCs via the application of biomaterials are discussed with the aim of inspiring the clinical translation of future DC-mediated cancer immunotherapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Heng Dong
- Nanjing Stomatological HospitalAffiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University30 Zhongyang RoadNanjingJiangsu210008P. R. China
| | - Qiang Li
- Nanjing Stomatological HospitalAffiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University30 Zhongyang RoadNanjingJiangsu210008P. R. China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Nanjing Stomatological HospitalAffiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University30 Zhongyang RoadNanjingJiangsu210008P. R. China
| | - Meng Ding
- Nanjing Stomatological HospitalAffiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University30 Zhongyang RoadNanjingJiangsu210008P. R. China
| | - Zhaogang Teng
- Key Laboratory for Organic Electronics and Information DisplaysJiangsu Key Laboratory for BiosensorsInstitute of Advanced MaterialsJiangsu National Synergetic Innovation Centre for Advanced MaterialsNanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications9 Wenyuan RoadNanjingJiangsu210023P. R. China
| | - Yongbin Mou
- Nanjing Stomatological HospitalAffiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University30 Zhongyang RoadNanjingJiangsu210008P. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
de Mey W, Locy H, De Ridder K, De Schrijver P, Autaers D, Lakdimi A, Esprit A, Franceschini L, Thielemans K, Verdonck M, Breckpot K. An mRNA mix redirects dendritic cells towards an antiviral program, inducing anticancer cytotoxic stem cell and central memory CD8 + T cells. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1111523. [PMID: 36860873 PMCID: PMC9969480 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1111523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Dendritic cell (DC)-maturation stimuli determine the potency of these antigen-presenting cells and, therefore, the quality of the T-cell response. Here we describe that the maturation of DCs via TriMix mRNA, encoding CD40 ligand, a constitutively active variant of toll-like receptor 4 and the co-stimulatory molecule CD70, enables an antibacterial transcriptional program. Besides, we further show that the DCs are redirected into an antiviral transcriptional program when CD70 mRNA in TriMix is replaced with mRNA encoding interferon-gamma and a decoy interleukin-10 receptor alpha, forming a four-component mixture referred to as TetraMix mRNA. The resulting TetraMixDCs show a high potential to induce tumor antigen-specific T cells within bulk CD8+ T cells. Tumor-specific antigens (TSAs) are emerging and attractive targets for cancer immunotherapy. As T-cell receptors recognizing TSAs are predominantly present on naive CD8+ T cells (TN), we further addressed the activation of tumor antigen-specific T cells when CD8+ TN cells are stimulated by TriMixDCs or TetraMixDCs. In both conditions, the stimulation resulted in a shift from CD8+ TN cells into tumor antigen-specific stem cell-like memory, effector memory and central memory T cells with cytotoxic capacity. These findings suggest that TetraMix mRNA, and the antiviral maturation program it induces in DCs, triggers an antitumor immune reaction in cancer patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Kirsten De Ridder
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Phaedra De Schrijver
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Dorien Autaers
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Asma Lakdimi
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Arthur Esprit
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Lorenzo Franceschini
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Potential health risks of mRNA-based vaccine therapy: A hypothesis. Med Hypotheses 2023; 171:111015. [PMID: 36718314 PMCID: PMC9876036 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2023.111015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Therapeutic applications of synthetic mRNA were proposed more than 30 years ago, and are currently the basis of one of the vaccine platforms used at a massive scale as part of the public health strategy to get COVID-19 under control. To date, there are no published studies on the biodistribution, cellular uptake, endosomal escape, translation rates, functional half-life and inactivation kinetics of synthetic mRNA, rates and duration of vaccine-induced antigen expression in different cell types. Furthermore, despite the assumption that there is no possibility of genomic integration of therapeutic synthetic mRNA, only one recent study has examined interactions between vaccine mRNA and the genome of transfected cells, and reported that an endogenous retrotransposon, LINE-1 is unsilenced following mRNA entry to the cell, leading to reverse transcription of full length vaccine mRNA sequences, and nuclear entry. This finding should be a major safety concern, given the possibility of synthetic mRNA-driven epigenetic and genomic modifications arising. We propose that in susceptible individuals, cytosolic clearance of nucleotide modified synthetic (nms-mRNAs) is impeded. Sustained presence of nms-mRNA in the cytoplasm deregulates and activates endogenous transposable elements (TEs), causing some of the mRNA copies to be reverse transcribed. The cytosolic accumulation of the nms-mRNA and the reverse transcribed cDNA molecules activates RNA and DNA sensory pathways. Their concurrent activation initiates a synchronized innate response against non-self nucleic acids, prompting type-I interferon and pro-inflammatory cytokine production which, if unregulated, leads to autoinflammatory and autoimmune conditions, while activated TEs increase the risk of insertional mutagenesis of the reverse transcribed molecules, which can disrupt coding regions, enhance the risk of mutations in tumour suppressor genes, and lead to sustained DNA damage. Susceptible individuals would then expectedly have an increased risk of DNA damage, chronic autoinflammation, autoimmunity and cancer. In light of the current mass administration of nms-mRNA vaccines, it is essential and urgent to fully understand the intracellular cascades initiated by cellular uptake of synthetic mRNA and the consequences of these molecular events.
Collapse
|
25
|
Xia H, Yu B, Jiang Y, Cheng R, Lu X, Wu H, Zhu B. Psychrophilic phage VSW-3 RNA polymerase reduces both terminal and full-length dsRNA byproducts in in vitro transcription. RNA Biol 2022; 19:1130-1142. [DOI: 10.1080/15476286.2022.2139113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Heng Xia
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics, the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Bingbing Yu
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics, the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yixin Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics, the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Rui Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics, the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xueling Lu
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics, the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Hui Wu
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics, the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Bin Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics, the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Shenzhen Huazhong University of Science and Technology Research Institute, Shenzhen, China
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Lorentzen CL, Haanen JB, Met Ö, Svane IM. Clinical advances and ongoing trials on mRNA vaccines for cancer treatment. Lancet Oncol 2022; 23:e450-e458. [PMID: 36174631 PMCID: PMC9512276 DOI: 10.1016/s1470-2045(22)00372-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 148] [Impact Index Per Article: 74.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Years of research exploring mRNA vaccines for cancer treatment in preclinical and clinical trials have set the stage for the rapid development of mRNA vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic. Therapeutic cancer vaccines based on mRNA are well tolerated, and the inherent advantage in ease of production, which rivals the best available conventional vaccine manufacture methods, renders mRNA vaccines a promising option for cancer immunotherapy. Technological advances have optimised mRNA-based vaccine stability, structure, and delivery methods, and multiple clinical trials investigating mRNA vaccine therapy are now enrolling patients with various cancer diagnoses. Although therapeutic mRNA-based cancer vaccines have not yet been approved for standard treatment, encouraging results from early clinical trials with mRNA vaccines as monotherapy and in combination with checkpoint inhibitors have been obtained. This Review summarises the latest clinical advances in mRNA-based vaccines for cancer treatment and reflects on future perspectives and challenges for this new and promising treatment approach.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cathrine Lund Lorentzen
- National Center for Cancer Immune Therapy, Department of Oncology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev, Denmark
| | - John B Haanen
- Division of Medical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Özcan Met
- National Center for Cancer Immune Therapy, Department of Oncology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Inge Marie Svane
- National Center for Cancer Immune Therapy, Department of Oncology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev, Denmark.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
De Mey W, Esprit A, Thielemans K, Breckpot K, Franceschini L. RNA in Cancer Immunotherapy: Unlocking the Potential of the Immune System. Clin Cancer Res 2022; 28:3929-3939. [PMID: 35583609 PMCID: PMC9475240 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-21-3304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Revised: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Recent advances in the manufacturing, modification, purification, and cellular delivery of ribonucleic acid (RNA) have enabled the development of RNA-based therapeutics for a broad array of applications. The approval of two SARS-CoV-2-targeting mRNA-based vaccines has highlighted the advances of this technology. Offering rapid and straightforward manufacturing, clinical safety, and versatility, this paves the way for RNA therapeutics to expand into cancer immunotherapy. Together with ongoing trials on RNA cancer vaccination and cellular therapy, RNA therapeutics could be introduced into clinical practice, possibly stewarding future personalized approaches. In the present review, we discuss recent advances in RNA-based immuno-oncology together with an update on ongoing clinical applications and their current challenges.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wout De Mey
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Arthur Esprit
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Kris Thielemans
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Karine Breckpot
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium.,Corresponding Author: Karine Breckpot, Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, B-1090 Brussels, Belgium. Phone: 32-2-477-45-66; E-mail:
| | - Lorenzo Franceschini
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Gu Y, Duan J, Yang N, Yang Y, Zhao X. mRNA vaccines in the prevention and treatment of diseases. MedComm (Beijing) 2022; 3:e167. [PMID: 36033422 PMCID: PMC9409637 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) vaccines made their successful public debut in the effort against the COVID-19 outbreak starting in late 2019, although the history of mRNA vaccines can be traced back decades. This review provides an overview to discuss the historical course and present situation of mRNA vaccine development in addition to some basic concepts that underly mRNA vaccines. We discuss the general preparation and manufacturing of mRNA vaccines and also discuss the scientific advances in the in vivo delivery system and evaluate popular approaches (i.e., lipid nanoparticle and protamine) in detail. Next, we highlight the clinical value of mRNA vaccines as potent candidates for therapeutic treatment and discuss clinical progress in the treatment of cancer and coronavirus disease 2019. Data suggest that mRNA vaccines, with several prominent advantages, have achieved encouraging results and increasing attention due to tremendous potential in disease management. Finally, we suggest some potential directions worthy of further investigation and optimization. In addition to basic research, studies that help to facilitate storage and transportation will be indispensable for practical applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yangzhuo Gu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer CenterWest China HospitalSichuan University; Collaborative Innovation Center for BiotherapyChengduChina
| | - Jiangyao Duan
- Department of Life SciencesImperial College LondonLondonUK
| | - Na Yang
- Stem Cell and Tissue Engineering Research Center/School of Basic Medical SciencesGuizhou Medical UniversityGuiyangChina
| | - Yuxin Yang
- Stem Cell and Tissue Engineering Research Center/School of Basic Medical SciencesGuizhou Medical UniversityGuiyangChina
| | - Xing Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer CenterWest China HospitalSichuan University; Collaborative Innovation Center for BiotherapyChengduChina
- Stem Cell and Tissue Engineering Research Center/School of Basic Medical SciencesGuizhou Medical UniversityGuiyangChina
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Fang H, Chen Q. Applications and challenges of biomaterial mediated mRNA delivery. EXPLORATION OF TARGETED ANTI-TUMOR THERAPY 2022; 3:428-444. [PMID: 36071982 PMCID: PMC9446159 DOI: 10.37349/etat.2022.00093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
With the rapid development of gene therapy technology and the outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), messenger RNA (mRNA) therapeutics have attracted more and more attention, and the COVID-19 mRNA vaccine has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for emergency authorization. To improve the delivery efficiency of mRNA in vitro and in vivo, researchers have developed a variety of mRNA carriers and explored different administration routes. This review will systematically introduce the types of mRNA vectors, routes of administration, storage methods, safety of mRNA therapeutics, and the type of diseases that mRNA drugs are applied for. Finally, some suggestions are supplied on the development direction of mRNA therapeutic agents in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huapan Fang
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qian Chen
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, Jiangsu, China
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Higuchi A, Sung TC, Wang T, Ling QD, Kumar SS, Hsu ST, Umezawa A. Material Design for Next-Generation mRNA Vaccines Using Lipid Nanoparticles. POLYM REV 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/15583724.2022.2106490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Akon Higuchi
- School of Biomedical Engineering, The Eye Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, National Central University, Jhongli, Taiwan
- R&D Center for Membrane Technology, Chung Yuan Christian University, Chungli, Taiwan
- Department of Reproduction, National Center for Child Health and Development, Okura, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tzu-Cheng Sung
- School of Biomedical Engineering, The Eye Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ting Wang
- School of Biomedical Engineering, The Eye Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qing-Dong Ling
- Cathay Medical Research Institute, Cathay General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - S. Suresh Kumar
- Department of Biotechnology, Bharath Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, India
| | - Shih-Tien Hsu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Taiwan Landseed Hospital, Pingjen City, Taiwan Taoyuan
| | - Akihiro Umezawa
- Department of Reproduction, National Center for Child Health and Development, Okura, Tokyo, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Janowski M, Andrzejewska A. The legacy of mRNA engineering: A lineup of pioneers for the Nobel Prize. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2022; 29:272-284. [PMID: 35855896 PMCID: PMC9278038 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2022.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
mRNA is like Hermes, delivering the genetic code to cellular construction sites, so it has long been of interest, but only to a small group of scientists, and only demonstrating its remarkable efficacy in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines allowed it to go out into the open. Therefore, now is the right timing to delve into the stepping stones that underpin this success and pay tribute to the underlying scientists. From this perspective, advances in mRNA engineering have proven crucial to the rapidly growing role of this molecule in healthcare. Development of consecutive generations of cap analogs, including anti-reverse cap analogs (ARCAs), has significantly boosted translation efficacy and maintained an enthusiasm for mRNA research. Nucleotide modification to protect mRNA molecules from the host's immune system, followed by finding appropriate purification and packaging methods, were other links in the chain enabling medical breakthroughs. Currently, vaccines are the central area of mRNA research, but it will reach far beyond COVID-19. Supplementation of missing or abnormal proteins is another large field of mRNA research. Ex vivo cell engineering and genome editing have been expanding recently. Thus, it is time to recognize mRNA pioneers while building upon their legacy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miroslaw Janowski
- Program in Image Guided Neurointerventions, Center for Advanced Imaging Research, Department of Diagnostic Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University of Maryland Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA,Tumor Immunology and Immunotherapy Program, University of Maryland Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Anna Andrzejewska
- NeuroRepair Department, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, PAS, 5 Pawinskiego Street, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland,Corresponding author Anna Andrzejewska, NeuroRepair Department, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, 5 Pawinskiego Street, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Kiaie SH, Majidi Zolbanin N, Ahmadi A, Bagherifar R, Valizadeh H, Kashanchi F, Jafari R. Recent advances in mRNA-LNP therapeutics: immunological and pharmacological aspects. J Nanobiotechnology 2022; 20:276. [PMID: 35701851 PMCID: PMC9194786 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-022-01478-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
In the last decade, the development of messenger RNA (mRNA) therapeutics by lipid nanoparticles (LNP) leads to facilitate clinical trial recruitment, which improves the efficacy of treatment modality to a large extent. Although mRNA-LNP vaccine platforms for the COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated high efficiency, safety and adverse effects challenges due to the uncontrolled immune responses and inappropriate pharmacological interventions could limit this tremendous efficacy. The current study reveals the interplay of immune responses with LNP compositions and characterization and clarifies the interaction of mRNA-LNP therapeutics with dendritic, macrophages, neutrophile cells, and complement. Then, pharmacological profiles for mRNA-LNP delivery, including pharmacokinetics and cellular trafficking, were discussed in detail in cancer types and infectious diseases. This review study opens a new and vital landscape to improve multidisciplinary therapeutics on mRNA-LNP through modulation of immunopharmacological responses in clinical trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seyed Hossein Kiaie
- Department of Formulation Development, ReNAP Therapeutics, Tehran, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Nano Drug Delivery Research Center, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Naime Majidi Zolbanin
- Experimental and Applied Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology School of Pharmacy , Urmia University of Medical Sciences , Urmia, Iran
| | - Armin Ahmadi
- Department of Chemical & Materials Engineering, The University of Alabama in Huntsville, Huntsville, AL, 35899, USA
| | - Rafieh Bagherifar
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hadi Valizadeh
- Drug Applied Research Center, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Fatah Kashanchi
- School of Systems Biology, Laboratory of Molecular Virology, George Mason University, Discovery Hall Room 182, 10900 University Blvd, Manassas, VA, 20110, USA.
| | - Reza Jafari
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Qureischi M, Mohr J, Arellano-Viera E, Knudsen SE, Vohidov F, Garitano-Trojaola A. mRNA-based therapies: Preclinical and clinical applications. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2022; 372:1-54. [PMID: 36064262 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ircmb.2022.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
At the fundamental level, messenger RNA (mRNA)-based therapeutics involves the delivery of in vitro-transcribed (IVT) mRNA into the cytoplasm of a target cell, where it is translated into the desired protein. IVT mRNA presents various advantages compared to DNA and recombinant protein-based approaches that make it ideal for a broad range of therapeutic applications. IVT mRNA, which is translated in the cytoplasm after transfection into cells, can encode virtually any target protein. Notably, it does not enter the nucleus, which avoids its integration into the genome and the risk of insertional mutagenesis. The large-scale production of IVT mRNA is less complex than production of recombinant proteins, and Good Manufacturing Practice-compliant mRNA production is easily scalable, ideally poising mRNA for not only off-the-shelf, but more personalized treatment approaches. IVT mRNA's safety profile, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics, including its inherent immunostimulatory capacity, can be optimized for different therapeutic applications by harnessing a wide array of optimized sequence elements, chemical modifications, purification techniques, and delivery methods. The value of IVT mRNA was recently proved during the COVID-19 pandemic when mRNA-based vaccines outperformed the efficacy of established technologies, and millions of doses were rapidly deployed. In this review, we will discuss chemical modifications of IVT mRNA and highlight numerous preclinical and clinical applications including vaccines for cancer and infectious diseases, cancer immunotherapy, protein replacement, gene editing, and cell reprogramming.
Collapse
|
34
|
Qin S, Tang X, Chen Y, Chen K, Fan N, Xiao W, Zheng Q, Li G, Teng Y, Wu M, Song X. mRNA-based therapeutics: powerful and versatile tools to combat diseases. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2022; 7:166. [PMID: 35597779 PMCID: PMC9123296 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-022-01007-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 153] [Impact Index Per Article: 76.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The therapeutic use of messenger RNA (mRNA) has fueled great hope to combat a wide range of incurable diseases. Recent rapid advances in biotechnology and molecular medicine have enabled the production of almost any functional protein/peptide in the human body by introducing mRNA as a vaccine or therapeutic agent. This represents a rising precision medicine field with great promise for preventing and treating many intractable or genetic diseases. In addition, in vitro transcribed mRNA has achieved programmed production, which is more effective, faster in design and production, as well as more flexible and cost-effective than conventional approaches that may offer. Based on these extraordinary advantages, mRNA vaccines have the characteristics of the swiftest response to large-scale outbreaks of infectious diseases, such as the currently devastating pandemic COVID-19. It has always been the scientists’ desire to improve the stability, immunogenicity, translation efficiency, and delivery system to achieve efficient and safe delivery of mRNA. Excitingly, these scientific dreams have gradually been realized with the rapid, amazing achievements of molecular biology, RNA technology, vaccinology, and nanotechnology. In this review, we comprehensively describe mRNA-based therapeutics, including their principles, manufacture, application, effects, and shortcomings. We also highlight the importance of mRNA optimization and delivery systems in successful mRNA therapeutics and discuss the key challenges and opportunities in developing these tools into powerful and versatile tools to combat many genetic, infectious, cancer, and other refractory diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shugang Qin
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaoshan Tang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yuting Chen
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Kepan Chen
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Na Fan
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wen Xiao
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Qian Zheng
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Guohong Li
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yuqing Teng
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Min Wu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND, 58203, USA
| | - Xiangrong Song
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Recent advancements in lipid–mRNA nanoparticles as a treatment option for cancer immunotherapy. JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL INVESTIGATION 2022; 52:415-426. [PMID: 35369363 PMCID: PMC8960215 DOI: 10.1007/s40005-022-00569-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Background Cancer remains a serious health concern worldwide, and different approaches are being developed for its treatment. The strategy to use the immune system as an approach for treating cancer has recently gained momentum. Messenger RNA (mRNA) has been assessed as an up-and-coming resource for the evolution of advanced cancer immunotherapies over the past decades. However, degradation in extracellular compartments and during endosomal escape remain obstacles for efficient mRNA delivery and limit the therapeutic applications of this approach. Area covered Lipid-based nanocarriers are gaining significant attention as non-viral mRNA vectors. Various lipid-based nanocarrier types have been developed to enhance the stability of mRNA molecules, facilitate their transfection, and ensure delivery to an intracellular compartment suitable for further processing. This review discusses the development of novel mRNA delivery systems using lipids for effective cancer immunotherapy. Expert opinion mRNAs are superior to other biomolecules for developing therapeutic drugs and vaccines with multiple medical applications that are currently being explored by researchers in various biomedical fields. Lipid-based mRNA nanoparticles can improve the potency of the mRNA by enhancing its stability, enabling its cellular uptake, and facilitating its endosomal escape. Targetability of these therapeutics can be increased by conjugating their surface with the desired ligands or targeting agents. Lipid–mRNA nanoparticles are increasingly being incorporated in cancer immunotherapy applications, including vaccines, monoclonal antibodies, and chimeric antigen receptor T-cell treatment, and several such nanoparticles are being assessed in clinical trials. Further research that assesses key variables for transfection efficiency of lipid–mRNA nanoparticles will expedite the development of improved therapeutics.
Collapse
|
36
|
Abstract
The therapeutic potential for messenger RNA (mRNA) in infectious diseases and cancer was first realized almost three decades ago, but only in 2018 did the first lipid nanoparticle-based small interfering RNA (siRNA) therapy reach the market with the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of patisiran (Onpattro™) for hereditary ATTR amyloidosis. This was largely made possible by major advances in the formulation technology for stabilized lipid-based nanoparticles (LNPs). Design of the cationic ionizable lipids, which are a key component of the LNP formulations, with an acid dissociation constant (pKa) close to the early endosomal pH, would not only ensure effective encapsulation of mRNA into the stabilized lipoplexes within the LNPs, but also its subsequent endosomal release into the cytoplasm after endocytosis. Unlike other gene therapy modalities, which require nuclear delivery, the site of action for exogenous mRNA vaccines is the cytosol where they get translated into antigenic proteins and thereby elicit an immune response. LNPs also protect the mRNA against enzymatic degradation by the omnipresent ribonucleases (RNases). Cationic nano emulsion (CNE) is also explored as an alternative and relatively thermostable mRNA vaccine delivery vehicle. In this review, we have summarized the various delivery strategies explored for mRNA vaccines, including naked mRNA injection; ex vivo loading of dendritic cells; CNE; cationic peptides; cationic polymers and finally the clinically successful COVID-19 LNP vaccines (Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna vaccines)-their components, design principles, formulation parameter optimization and stabilization challenges. Despite the clinical success of LNP-mRNA vaccine formulations, there is a specific need to enhance their storage stability above 0 °C for these lifesaving vaccines to reach the developing world.
Collapse
|
37
|
Meyer RA, Hussmann GP, Peterson NC, Santos JL, Tuesca AD. A scalable and robust cationic lipid/polymer hybrid nanoparticle platform for mRNA delivery. Int J Pharm 2022; 611:121314. [PMID: 34838950 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2021.121314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
mRNA based gene therapies hold the potential to treat multiple diseases with significant advantages over DNA based therapies, including rapid protein expression and minimized risk of mutagenesis. However, successful delivery of mRNA remains challenging, and clinical translation of mRNA therapeutics has been limited. This study investigated the use of a lipid/polymer hybrid (LPH) nanocarrier for mRNA, designed to address key delivery challenges and shuttle mRNA to targeted tissues. LPH nanocarriers were synthesized using a scalable microfluidic process with a variety of material compositions and mRNA loading strategies. Results show that a combination of permanently ionized and transiently, pH-dependent ionizable cationic lipids had a synergistic effect upon on mRNA gene translation, when compared to each lipid independently. Upon intravenous administration, particles with adsorbed mRNA outperformed particles with encapsulated mRNA for protein expression in the lungs and the spleen despite significant LPH nanoparticle localization to the liver. In contrast, encapsulated particles had higher localized expression when injected intramuscularly with protein expression detectable out to 12 days post injection. Intramuscular administration of particles with OVA mRNA resulted in robust humoral immune response with encapsulated outperforming adsorbed particles in terms of antibody titers at 28 days. These results demonstrate LPH nanocarriers have great potential as a vehicle for mRNA delivery and expression in tissues and that tissue expression and longevity can be influenced by LPH composition and route of administration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Randall A Meyer
- BioPharmaceutical Development, BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, Gaithersburg, MD, United States
| | - G Patrick Hussmann
- BioPharmaceutical Development, BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, Gaithersburg, MD, United States
| | - Norman C Peterson
- BioPharmaceutical Development, BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, Gaithersburg, MD, United States
| | - Jose Luis Santos
- BioPharmaceutical Development, BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, Gaithersburg, MD, United States.
| | - Anthony D Tuesca
- BioPharmaceutical Development, BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, Gaithersburg, MD, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Huang L, Zhang L, Li W, Li S, Wen J, Li H, Liu Z. Advances in Development of mRNA-Based Therapeutics. Curr Top Microbiol Immunol 2022; 440:147-166. [PMID: 32683507 DOI: 10.1007/82_2020_222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Recently, mRNA-based therapeutics have been greatly boosted since the development of novel technologies of both mRNA synthesis and delivery system. Promising results were showed in both preclinical and clinical studies in the field of cancer vaccine, tumor immunotherapy, infectious disease prevention and protein replacement therapy. Recent advancements in clinical trials also encouraged scientists to attempt new applications of mRNA therapy such as gene editing and cell programming. These studies bring mRNA therapeutics closer to real-world application. Herein, we provide an overview of recent advances in mRNA-based therapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lei Huang
- Stemirna Therapeutics Inc, Shanghai, 201206, China
| | - Luyao Zhang
- Stemirna Therapeutics Inc, Shanghai, 201206, China
| | - Weiwei Li
- Stemirna Therapeutics Inc, Shanghai, 201206, China
| | - Shiqiang Li
- Stemirna Therapeutics Inc, Shanghai, 201206, China
| | - Jianguo Wen
- Stemirna Therapeutics Inc, Shanghai, 201206, China
| | - Hangwen Li
- Stemirna Therapeutics Inc, Shanghai, 201206, China.
| | | |
Collapse
|
39
|
Maruggi G, Ulmer JB, Rappuoli R, Yu D. Self-amplifying mRNA-Based Vaccine Technology and Its Mode of Action. Curr Top Microbiol Immunol 2022; 440:31-70. [PMID: 33861374 DOI: 10.1007/82_2021_233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Self-amplifying mRNAs derived from the genomes of positive-strand RNA viruses have recently come into focus as a promising technology platform for vaccine development. Non-virally delivered self-amplifying mRNA vaccines have the potential to be highly versatile, potent, streamlined, scalable, and inexpensive. By amplifying their genome and the antigen encoding mRNA in the host cell, the self-amplifying mRNA mimics a viral infection, resulting in sustained levels of the target protein combined with self-adjuvanting innate immune responses, ultimately leading to potent and long-lasting antigen-specific humoral and cellular immune responses. Moreover, in principle, any eukaryotic sequence could be encoded by self-amplifying mRNA without the need to change the manufacturing process, thereby enabling a much faster and flexible research and development timeline than the current vaccines and hence a quicker response to emerging infectious diseases. This chapter highlights the rapid progress made in using non-virally delivered self-amplifying mRNA-based vaccines against infectious diseases in animal models. We provide an overview of the unique attributes of this vaccine approach, summarize the growing body of work defining its mechanism of action, discuss the current challenges and latest advances, and highlight perspectives about the future of this promising technology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Dong Yu
- GSK, 14200 Shady Grove Road, Rockville, MD, 20850, USA. .,Dynavax Technologies, 2100 Powell Street Suite, Emeryville, CA, 94608, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Soleymani S, Tavassoli A, Housaindokht MR. An overview of progress from empirical to rational design in modern vaccine development, with an emphasis on computational tools and immunoinformatics approaches. Comput Biol Med 2022; 140:105057. [PMID: 34839187 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2021.105057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Revised: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Vaccination remains the most effective strategy for preventing and controlling infectious diseases. Numerous conventional vaccines, especially live attenuated, inactivated (killed) microorganisms and subunit vaccines, lead to an effective induction of protective immune responses, mainly antibody-mediated responses against pathogens. However, it has become known that a wide range of highly dangerous pathogens are uncontrollable via conventional vaccination strategies. Recent advances in molecular biology, immunology, genetics, biochemistry, and bioinformatics have provided new prospects for vaccine development. As a result of these advances, several new strategies for vaccine design, development, and production have appeared. These strategies show advantages over conventional vaccines. In this review, we discuss some of the major novel approaches, including recombinant protein vaccines, live recombinant viral and bacterial vectors, DNA and RNA vaccines, reverse vaccinology and reverse genetics approaches. Moreover, we have described the recent progresses on computational tools and immunoinformatics approaches for identifying, designing, and developing new candidate vaccines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Safoura Soleymani
- Research and Technology Center of Biomolecules, Faculty of Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran.
| | - Amin Tavassoli
- Division of Biotechnology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran.
| | - Mohammad Reza Housaindokht
- Research and Technology Center of Biomolecules, Faculty of Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran; Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Zeng C, Zhang C, Walker PG, Dong Y. Formulation and Delivery Technologies for mRNA Vaccines. Curr Top Microbiol Immunol 2022; 440:71-110. [PMID: 32483657 PMCID: PMC8195316 DOI: 10.1007/82_2020_217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
mRNA vaccines have become a versatile technology for the prevention of infectious diseases and the treatment of cancers. In the vaccination process, mRNA formulation and delivery strategies facilitate effective expression and presentation of antigens, and immune stimulation. mRNA vaccines have been delivered in various formats: encapsulation by delivery carriers, such as lipid nanoparticles, polymers, peptides, free mRNA in solution, and ex vivo through dendritic cells. Appropriate delivery materials and formulation methods often boost the vaccine efficacy which is also influenced by the selection of a proper administration route. Co-delivery of multiple mRNAs enables synergistic effects and further enhances immunity in some cases. In this chapter, we overview the recent progress and existing challenges in the formulation and delivery technologies of mRNA vaccines with perspectives for future development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chunxi Zeng
- Division of Pharmaceutics & Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, 43210, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Chengxiang Zhang
- Division of Pharmaceutics & Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, 43210, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Patrick G Walker
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Yizhou Dong
- Division of Pharmaceutics & Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, 43210, Columbus, OH, USA. .,The Center for Clinical and Translational Science, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA. .,The Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA. .,Dorothy M. Davis Heart & Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University, 43210, Columbus, OH, USA. .,Department of Radiation Oncology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Rouf NZ, Biswas S, Tarannum N, Oishee LM, Muna MM. Demystifying mRNA vaccines: an emerging platform at the forefront of cryptic diseases. RNA Biol 2021; 19:386-410. [PMID: 35354425 PMCID: PMC8973339 DOI: 10.1080/15476286.2022.2055923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines have been studied for decades, but only recently, during the COVID-19 pandemic, has the technology garnered noteworthy attention. In contrast to traditional vaccines, mRNA vaccines elicit a more balanced immune response, triggering both humoral and cellular components of the adaptive immune system. However, some inherent hurdles associated with stability, immunogenicity, in vivo delivery, along with the novelty of the technology, have generated scepticism in the adoption of mRNA vaccines. Recent developments have pushed to bypass these issues and the approval of mRNA-based vaccines to combat COVID-19 has further highlighted the feasibility, safety, efficacy, and rapid development potential of this platform, thereby pushing it to the forefront of emerging therapeutics. This review aims to demystify mRNA vaccines, delineating the evolution of the technology which has emerged as a timely solution to COVID-19 and exploring the immense potential it offers as a prophylactic option for other cryptic diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nusrat Zahan Rouf
- School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine, & Health, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, ManchesterM13 9PT, UK
| | - Sumit Biswas
- Department of Neurophysiology, Retinal Physiology and Gene Therapy, Institute of Physiology and Pathophysiology, University of Marburg, Deutschhausstrasse. 2D-35037, Marburg, Germany
| | - Nawseen Tarannum
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine, & Health, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, ManchesterM13 9PT, UK
| | - Labiba Mustabina Oishee
- School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, LoughboroughLE12 5RD, UK
| | - Mutia Masuka Muna
- Department of Biological Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo14260, New York, USA
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Small-scale manufacturing of neoantigen-encoding messenger RNA for early-phase clinical trials. Cytotherapy 2021; 24:213-222. [PMID: 34696961 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2021.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Messenger RNA (mRNA) has become a promising tool in therapeutic cancer vaccine strategies. Owing to its flexible design and rapid production, mRNA is an attractive antigen delivery format for cancer vaccines targeting mutated peptides expressed in a tumor-the so-called neoantigens. These neoantigens are rarely shared between patients, and inclusion of these antigens in a vaccine requires the production of individual batches of patient-tailored mRNA. The authors have developed MIDRIXNEO, a personalized mRNA-loaded dendritic cell vaccine targeting tumor neoantigens, which is currently being evaluated in a phase 1 clinical study in lung cancer patients. To facilitate this study, the authors set up a Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP)-compliant production process for the manufacture of small batches of personalized neoantigen-encoding mRNA. In this article, the authors describe the complete mRNA production process and the extensive quality assessment to which the mRNA is subjected. Validation runs have shown that the process delivers mRNA of reproducible, high quality. This process is now successfully applied for the production of neoantigen-encoding mRNA for the clinical evaluation of MIDRIXNEO. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first time that a GMP-based production process of patient-tailored neoantigen mRNA has been described.
Collapse
|
44
|
Pilkington EH, Suys EJA, Trevaskis NL, Wheatley AK, Zukancic D, Algarni A, Al-Wassiti H, Davis TP, Pouton CW, Kent SJ, Truong NP. From influenza to COVID-19: Lipid nanoparticle mRNA vaccines at the frontiers of infectious diseases. Acta Biomater 2021; 131:16-40. [PMID: 34153512 PMCID: PMC8272596 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2021.06.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2021] [Revised: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Vaccination represents the best line of defense against infectious diseases and is crucial in curtailing pandemic spread of emerging pathogens to which a population has limited immunity. In recent years, mRNA vaccines have been proposed as the new frontier in vaccination, owing to their facile and rapid development while providing a safer alternative to traditional vaccine technologies such as live or attenuated viruses. Recent breakthroughs in mRNA vaccination have been through formulation with lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), which provide both protection and enhanced delivery of mRNA vaccines in vivo. In this review, current paradigms and state-of-the-art in mRNA-LNP vaccine development are explored through first highlighting advantages posed by mRNA vaccines, establishing LNPs as a biocompatible delivery system, and finally exploring the use of mRNA-LNP vaccines in vivo against infectious disease towards translation to the clinic. Furthermore, we highlight the progress of mRNA-LNP vaccine candidates against COVID-19 currently in clinical trials, with the current status and approval timelines, before discussing their future outlook and challenges that need to be overcome towards establishing mRNA-LNPs as next-generation vaccines. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: With the recent success of mRNA vaccines developed by Moderna and BioNTech/Pfizer against COVID-19, mRNA technology and lipid nanoparticles (LNP) have never received more attention. This manuscript timely reviews the most advanced mRNA-LNP vaccines that have just been approved for emergency use and are in clinical trials, with a focus on the remarkable development of several COVID-19 vaccines, faster than any other vaccine in history. We aim to give a comprehensive introduction of mRNA and LNP technology to the field of biomaterials science and increase accessibility to readers with a new interest in mRNA-LNP vaccines. We also highlight current limitations and future outlook of the mRNA vaccine technology that need further efforts of biomaterials scientists to address.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emily H Pilkington
- Department of Drug Delivery, Disposition and Dynamics, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
| | - Estelle J A Suys
- Department of Drug Delivery, Disposition and Dynamics, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
| | - Natalie L Trevaskis
- Department of Drug Delivery, Disposition and Dynamics, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
| | - Adam K Wheatley
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
| | - Danijela Zukancic
- Department of Drug Delivery, Disposition and Dynamics, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
| | - Azizah Algarni
- Department of Drug Delivery, Disposition and Dynamics, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
| | - Hareth Al-Wassiti
- Department of Drug Delivery, Disposition and Dynamics, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
| | - Thomas P Davis
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, University of Queensland, Australia; ARC Centre of Excellence in Convergent Bio-Nano Science and Technology, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Australia
| | - Colin W Pouton
- Department of Drug Delivery, Disposition and Dynamics, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
| | - Stephen J Kent
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
| | - Nghia P Truong
- Department of Drug Delivery, Disposition and Dynamics, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Minnaert AK, Vanluchene H, Verbeke R, Lentacker I, De Smedt SC, Raemdonck K, Sanders NN, Remaut K. Strategies for controlling the innate immune activity of conventional and self-amplifying mRNA therapeutics: Getting the message across. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2021; 176:113900. [PMID: 34324884 PMCID: PMC8325057 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.113900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Revised: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The recent approval of messenger RNA (mRNA)-based vaccines to combat the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic highlights the potential of both conventional mRNA and self-amplifying mRNA (saRNA) as a flexible immunotherapy platform to treat infectious diseases. Besides the antigen it encodes, mRNA itself has an immune-stimulating activity that can contribute to vaccine efficacy. This self-adjuvant effect, however, will interfere with mRNA translation and may influence the desired therapeutic outcome. To further exploit its potential as a versatile therapeutic platform, it will be crucial to control mRNA's innate immune-stimulating properties. In this regard, we describe the mechanisms behind the innate immune recognition of mRNA and provide an extensive overview of strategies to control its innate immune-stimulating activity. These strategies range from modifications to the mRNA backbone itself, optimization of production and purification processes to the combination with innate immune inhibitors. Furthermore, we discuss the delicate balance of the self-adjuvant effect in mRNA vaccination strategies, which can be both beneficial and detrimental to the therapeutic outcome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- An-Katrien Minnaert
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Helena Vanluchene
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Rein Verbeke
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Ine Lentacker
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Stefaan C De Smedt
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Koen Raemdonck
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Niek N Sanders
- Laboratory of Gene Therapy, Department of Nutrition, Genetics and Ethology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Katrien Remaut
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium.
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Chakraborty C, Sharma AR, Bhattacharya M, Lee SS. From COVID-19 to Cancer mRNA Vaccines: Moving From Bench to Clinic in the Vaccine Landscape. Front Immunol 2021; 12:679344. [PMID: 34305909 PMCID: PMC8293291 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.679344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently, mRNA vaccines have become a significant type of therapeutic and have created new fields in the biopharmaceutical industry. mRNA vaccines are promising next-generation vaccines that have introduced a new age in vaccinology. The recent approval of two COVID-19 mRNA vaccines (mRNA-1273 and BNT162b2) has accelerated mRNA vaccine technology and boosted the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industry. These mRNA vaccines will help to tackle COVID-19 pandemic through immunization, offering considerable hope for future mRNA vaccines. Human trials with data both from mRNA cancer vaccines and mRNA infectious disease vaccines have provided encouraging results, inspiring the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries to focus on this area of research. In this article, we discuss current mRNA vaccines broadly in two parts. In the first part, mRNA vaccines in general and COVID-19 mRNA vaccines are discussed. We presented the mRNA vaccine structure in general, the different delivery systems, the immune response, and the recent clinical trials for mRNA vaccines (both for cancer mRNA vaccines and different infectious diseases mRNA vaccines). In the second part, different COVID-19 mRNA vaccines are explained. Finally, we illustrated a snapshot of the different leading mRNA vaccine developers, challenges, and future prospects of mRNA vaccines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chiranjib Chakraborty
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Life Science and Biotechnology, Adamas University, Kolkata, India
- Institute for Skeletal Aging & Orthopedic Surgery, Hallym University-Chuncheon Sacred Heart Hospital, Chuncheon, Gangwon-do, South Korea
| | - Ashish Ranjan Sharma
- Institute for Skeletal Aging & Orthopedic Surgery, Hallym University-Chuncheon Sacred Heart Hospital, Chuncheon, Gangwon-do, South Korea
| | | | - Sang-Soo Lee
- Institute for Skeletal Aging & Orthopedic Surgery, Hallym University-Chuncheon Sacred Heart Hospital, Chuncheon, Gangwon-do, South Korea
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Salah A, Wang H, Li Y, Ji M, Ou WB, Qi N, Wu Y. Insights Into Dendritic Cells in Cancer Immunotherapy: From Bench to Clinical Applications. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:686544. [PMID: 34262904 PMCID: PMC8273339 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.686544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Dendritic cells (DCs) are efficient antigen-presenting cells (APCs) and potent activators of naïve T cells. Therefore, they act as a connective ring between innate and adaptive immunity. DC subsets are heterogeneous in their ontogeny and functions. They have proven to potentially take up and process tumor-associated antigens (TAAs). In this regard, researchers have developed strategies such as genetically engineered or TAA-pulsed DC vaccines; these manipulated DCs have shown significant outcomes in clinical and preclinical models. Here, we review DC classification and address how DCs are skewed into an immunosuppressive phenotype in cancer patients. Additionally, we present the advancements in DCs as a platform for cancer immunotherapy, emphasizing the technologies used for in vivo targeting of endogenous DCs, ex vivo generated vaccines from peripheral blood monocytes, and induced pluripotent stem cell-derived DCs (iPSC-DCs) to boost antitumoral immunity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Salah
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Science and Medicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hao Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Science and Medicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, China.,Hangzhou Biaomo Biosciences Co., Ltd., Hangzhou, China.,Asia Stem Cell Therapies Co., Limited, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanqin Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Science and Medicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Meng Ji
- Hangzhou Biaomo Biosciences Co., Ltd., Hangzhou, China
| | - Wen-Bin Ou
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Science and Medicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Nianmin Qi
- Hangzhou Biaomo Biosciences Co., Ltd., Hangzhou, China.,Asia Stem Cell Therapies Co., Limited, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuehong Wu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Science and Medicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Igyártó BZ, Jacobsen S, Ndeupen S. Future considerations for the mRNA-lipid nanoparticle vaccine platform. Curr Opin Virol 2021; 48:65-72. [PMID: 33906124 PMCID: PMC8065267 DOI: 10.1016/j.coviro.2021.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Revised: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Vaccines based on mRNA-containing lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) pioneered by Katalin Karikó and Drew Weissman at the University of Pennsylvania are a promising new vaccine platform used by two of the leading vaccines against coronavirus disease in 2019 (COVID-19). However, there are many questions regarding their mechanism of action in humans that remain unanswered. Here we consider the immunological features of LNP components and off-target effects of the mRNA, both of which could increase the risk of side effects. We suggest ways to mitigate these potential risks by harnessing dendritic cell (DC) biology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Botond Z Igyártó
- Thomas Jefferson University, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, 233 South 10th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107, United States.
| | - Sonya Jacobsen
- Thomas Jefferson University, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, 233 South 10th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107, United States
| | - Sonia Ndeupen
- Thomas Jefferson University, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, 233 South 10th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107, United States
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Kowalzik F, Schreiner D, Jensen C, Teschner D, Gehring S, Zepp F. mRNA-Based Vaccines. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:390. [PMID: 33921028 PMCID: PMC8103517 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9040390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Revised: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Increases in the world's population and population density promote the spread of emerging pathogens. Vaccines are the most cost-effective means of preventing this spread. Traditional methods used to identify and produce new vaccines are not adequate, in most instances, to ensure global protection. New technologies are urgently needed to expedite large scale vaccine development. mRNA-based vaccines promise to meet this need. mRNA-based vaccines exhibit a number of potential advantages relative to conventional vaccines, namely they (1) involve neither infectious elements nor a risk of stable integration into the host cell genome; (2) generate humoral and cell-mediated immunity; (3) are well-tolerated by healthy individuals; and (4) are less expensive and produced more rapidly by processes that are readily standardized and scaled-up, improving responsiveness to large emerging outbreaks. Multiple mRNA vaccine platforms have demonstrated efficacy in preventing infectious diseases and treating several types of cancers in humans as well as animal models. This review describes the factors that contribute to maximizing the production of effective mRNA vaccine transcripts and delivery systems, and the clinical applications are discussed in detail.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Frank Kowalzik
- Pediatric Department, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, 55128 Mainz, Germany; (D.S.); (C.J.); (S.G.); (F.Z.)
| | - Daniel Schreiner
- Pediatric Department, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, 55128 Mainz, Germany; (D.S.); (C.J.); (S.G.); (F.Z.)
| | - Christian Jensen
- Pediatric Department, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, 55128 Mainz, Germany; (D.S.); (C.J.); (S.G.); (F.Z.)
| | - Daniel Teschner
- Department of Hematology, Medical Oncology, and Pneumology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, 55122 Mainz, Germany;
| | - Stephan Gehring
- Pediatric Department, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, 55128 Mainz, Germany; (D.S.); (C.J.); (S.G.); (F.Z.)
| | - Fred Zepp
- Pediatric Department, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, 55128 Mainz, Germany; (D.S.); (C.J.); (S.G.); (F.Z.)
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Borah P, Deb PK, Al-Shar’i NA, Dahabiyeh LA, Venugopala KN, Singh V, Shinu P, Hussain S, Deka S, Chandrasekaran B, Jaradat DMM. Perspectives on RNA Vaccine Candidates for COVID-19. Front Mol Biosci 2021; 8:635245. [PMID: 33869282 PMCID: PMC8044912 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.635245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
With the current outbreak caused by SARS-CoV-2, vaccination is acclaimed as a public health care priority. Rapid genetic sequencing of SARS-CoV-2 has triggered the scientific community to search for effective vaccines. Collaborative approaches from research institutes and biotech companies have acknowledged the use of viral proteins as potential vaccine candidates against COVID-19. Nucleic acid (DNA or RNA) vaccines are considered the next generation vaccines as they can be rapidly designed to encode any desirable viral sequence including the highly conserved antigen sequences. RNA vaccines being less prone to host genome integration (cons of DNA vaccines) and anti-vector immunity (a compromising factor of viral vectors) offer great potential as front-runners for universal COVID-19 vaccine. The proof of concept for RNA-based vaccines has already been proven in humans, and the prospects for commercialization are very encouraging as well. With the emergence of COVID-19, mRNA-1273, an mRNA vaccine developed by Moderna, Inc. was the first to enter human trials, with the first volunteer receiving the dose within 10 weeks after SARS-CoV-2 genetic sequencing. The recent interest in mRNA vaccines has been fueled by the state of the art technologies that enhance mRNA stability and improve vaccine delivery. Interestingly, as per the "Draft landscape of COVID-19 candidate vaccines" published by the World Health Organization (WHO) on December 29, 2020, seven potential RNA based COVID-19 vaccines are in different stages of clinical trials; of them, two candidates already received emergency use authorization, and another 22 potential candidates are undergoing pre-clinical investigations. This review will shed light on the rationality of RNA as a platform for vaccine development against COVID-19, highlighting the possible pros and cons, lessons learned from the past, and the future prospects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pobitra Borah
- School of Pharmacy, Graphic Era Hill University, Dehradun, India
- Pratiksha Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Assam, India
| | - Pran Kishore Deb
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Philadelphia University, Amman, Jordan
| | - Nizar A. Al-Shar’i
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Lina A. Dahabiyeh
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Katharigatta N. Venugopala
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Clinical Pharmacy, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Technology, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa
| | - Vinayak Singh
- Drug Discovery and Development Centre (H3D), University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, South Africa
- South African Medical Research Council Drug Discovery and Development Research Unit, Department of Chemistry and Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, South Africa
| | - Pottathil Shinu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Clinical Pharmacy, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia
| | - Snawar Hussain
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Clinical Pharmacy, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia
| | - Satyendra Deka
- Pratiksha Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Assam, India
| | - Balakumar Chandrasekaran
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Philadelphia University, Amman, Jordan
| | - Da’san M. M. Jaradat
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Al-Balqa Applied University, Al-Salt, Jordan
| |
Collapse
|