1
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Destro F, Wu W, Srinivasan P, Joseph J, Bal V, Neufeld C, Wolfrum JM, Manalis SR, Sinskey AJ, Springs SL, Barone PW, Braatz RD. The state of technological advancement to address challenges in the manufacture of rAAV gene therapies. Biotechnol Adv 2024; 76:108433. [PMID: 39168354 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2024.108433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 07/04/2024] [Accepted: 08/17/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024]
Abstract
Current processes for the production of recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) are inadequate to meet the surging demand for rAAV-based gene therapies. This article reviews recent advances that hold the potential to address current limitations in rAAV manufacturing. A multidisciplinary perspective on technological progress in rAAV production is presented, underscoring the necessity to move beyond incremental refinements and adopt a holistic strategy to address existing challenges. Since several recent reviews have thoroughly covered advancements in upstream technology, this article provides only a concise overview of these developments before moving to pivotal areas of rAAV manufacturing not well covered in other reviews, including analytical technologies for rapid and high-throughput measurement of rAAV quality attributes, mathematical modeling for platform and process optimization, and downstream approaches to maximize efficiency and rAAV yield. Novel technologies that have the potential to address the current gaps in rAAV manufacturing are highlighted. Implementation challenges and future research directions are critically discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Destro
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Weida Wu
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA; Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Prasanna Srinivasan
- Center for Biomedical Innovation, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - John Joseph
- Center for Biomedical Innovation, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Vivekananda Bal
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Caleb Neufeld
- Center for Biomedical Innovation, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Jacqueline M Wolfrum
- Center for Biomedical Innovation, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Scott R Manalis
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA; Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA; Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Anthony J Sinskey
- Center for Biomedical Innovation, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA; Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Stacy L Springs
- Center for Biomedical Innovation, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA.
| | - Paul W Barone
- Center for Biomedical Innovation, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA.
| | - Richard D Braatz
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA; Center for Biomedical Innovation, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA.
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2
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Matsuzaka Y, Yashiro R. Therapeutic Application and Structural Features of Adeno-Associated Virus Vector. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2024; 46:8464-8498. [PMID: 39194716 DOI: 10.3390/cimb46080499] [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: 06/10/2024] [Revised: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV) is characterized by non-pathogenicity, long-term infection, and broad tropism and is actively developed as a vector virus for gene therapy products. AAV is classified into more than 100 serotypes based on differences in the amino acid sequence of the capsid protein. Endocytosis involves the uptake of viral particles by AAV and accessory receptors during AAV infection. After entry into the cell, they are transported to the nucleus through the nuclear pore complex. AAVs mainly use proteoglycans as receptors to enter cells, but the types of sugar chains in proteoglycans that have binding ability are different. Therefore, it is necessary to properly evaluate the primary structure of receptor proteins, such as amino acid sequences and post-translational modifications, including glycosylation, and the higher-order structure of proteins, such as the folding of the entire capsid structure and the three-dimensional (3D) structure of functional domains, to ensure the efficacy and safety of biopharmaceuticals. To further enhance safety, it is necessary to further improve the efficiency of gene transfer into target cells, reduce the amount of vector administered, and prevent infection of non-target cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasunari Matsuzaka
- Division of Molecular and Medical Genetics, Center for Gene and Cell Therapy, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8639, Japan
- Administrative Section of Radiation Protection, National Institute of Neuroscience, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Kodaira 187-8551, Japan
| | - Ryu Yashiro
- Administrative Section of Radiation Protection, National Institute of Neuroscience, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Kodaira 187-8551, Japan
- Department of Mycobacteriology, Leprosy Research Center, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo 162-8640, Japan
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3
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Lyle A, Stamatis C, Linke T, Hulley M, Schmelzer A, Turner R, Farid SS. Process economics evaluation and optimization of adeno-associated virus downstream processing. Biotechnol Bioeng 2024; 121:2435-2448. [PMID: 37086200 DOI: 10.1002/bit.28402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/01/2023] [Indexed: 04/23/2023]
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV) manufacturing has traditionally focused upon lab-scale techniques to culture and purify vector products, leading to limitations in production capacity. The tool presented in this paper assesses the feasibility of using non-scalable technologies at high AAV demands and identifies optimal flowsheets at large-scale that meet both cost and purity targets. The decisional tool comprises (a) a detailed process economics model with the relevant mass balance, sizing, and costing equations for AAV upstream and downstream technologies, (b) a built-in Monte Carlo simulation to assess uncertainties, and (c) a brute-force optimization algorithm for rapid investigation into the optimal purification combinations. The results overall highlighted that switching to more scalable upstream and downstream processing alternatives is economically advantageous. The base case analysis showed the cost and robustness advantages of utilizing suspension cell culture over adherent, as well as a fully chromatographic purification platform over batch ultracentrifugation. Expanding the set of purification options available gave insights into the optimal combination to satisfy both cost and purity targets. As the purity target increased, the optimal polishing solution moved from the non-capsid purifying multimodal chromatography to anion-exchange chromatography or continuous ultracentrifugation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annabel Lyle
- Department of Biochemical Engineering, The Advanced Centre for Biochemical Engineering, University College London, London, UK
| | - Christos Stamatis
- Department of Biochemical Engineering, The Advanced Centre for Biochemical Engineering, University College London, London, UK
| | - Thomas Linke
- Biopharmaceuticals Development, R&D, AstraZeneca, Gaithersburg, Maryland, USA
| | - Martyn Hulley
- Biopharmaceuticals Development, R&D, AstraZeneca, Cambridge, UK
| | - Albert Schmelzer
- Biopharmaceuticals Development, R&D, AstraZeneca, Gaithersburg, Maryland, USA
| | - Richard Turner
- Biopharmaceuticals Development, R&D, AstraZeneca, Cambridge, UK
| | - Suzanne S Farid
- Department of Biochemical Engineering, The Advanced Centre for Biochemical Engineering, University College London, London, UK
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4
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De-Luca R, Pupo-Correia M, Feldhofer M, Martins DL, Umprecht A, Shahmohammadi A, Corona D, von Stosch M. Hybrid modeling of an ultracentrifugation process for separation of full and empty adeno-associated virus particles. Bioprocess Biosyst Eng 2024; 47:877-890. [PMID: 38703202 PMCID: PMC11101501 DOI: 10.1007/s00449-024-03014-3] [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: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
Ultracentrifugation is an attractive method for separating full and empty capsids, exploiting their density difference. Changes of the serotype/capsid, density of loading material, or the genetic information contained in the adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) require the adaptation of the harvesting parameters and the density gradient loaded onto the centrifuge. To streamline these adaptations, a mathematical model could support the design and testing of operating conditions.Here, hybrid models, which combine empirical functions with artificial neural networks, are proposed to describe the separation of full and empty capsids as a function of material and operational parameters, i.e., the harvest model. In addition, critical quality attributes are estimated by a quality model which is operating on top of the harvest model. The performance of these models was evaluated using test data and two additional blind runs. Also, a "what-if" analysis was conducted to investigate whether the models' predictions align with expectations.It is concluded that the models are sufficiently accurate to support the design of operating conditions, though the accuracy and applicability of the models can further be increased by training them on more specific data with higher variability.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Miguel Pupo-Correia
- DataHow Soluções de Inteligência Artificial, Unipessoal, LDA, Rua Filipe Folque 2, 1050-110, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Michael Feldhofer
- Baxalta Innovations GmbH, a Takeda Company, Industriestraße 67, 1221, Vienna, Austria
| | - Duarte L Martins
- Baxalta Innovations GmbH, a Takeda Company, Industriestraße 67, 1221, Vienna, Austria
| | - Alexandra Umprecht
- Baxalta Innovations GmbH, a Takeda Company, Industriestraße 67, 1221, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ali Shahmohammadi
- Takeda Manufacturing U.S.A., Inc., 95 Hayden Avenue, Lexington, 02421, USA
| | - Daniel Corona
- DataHow Soluções de Inteligência Artificial, Unipessoal, LDA, Rua Filipe Folque 2, 1050-110, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Moritz von Stosch
- DataHow AG, Hagenholzstrasse 111, 8050, Zurich, Switzerland.
- DataHow Soluções de Inteligência Artificial, Unipessoal, LDA, Rua Filipe Folque 2, 1050-110, Lisbon, Portugal.
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5
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Ma J, Tian Z, Shi Q, Dong X, Sun Y. Affinity chromatography for virus-like particle manufacturing: Challenges, solutions, and perspectives. J Chromatogr A 2024; 1721:464851. [PMID: 38574547 DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2024.464851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2024] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
The increasing medical application of virus-like particles (VLPs), notably vaccines and viral vectors, has increased the demand for commercial VLP production. However, VLP manufacturing has not yet reached the efficiency level achieved for recombinant protein therapeutics, especially in downstream processing. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the challenges associated with affinity chromatography for VLP purification with respect to the diversity and complexity of VLPs and the associated upstream and downstream processes. The use of engineered affinity ligands and matrices for affinity chromatography is first discussed. Although several representative affinity ligands are currently available for VLP purification, most of them have difficulty in balancing ligand universality, ligand selectivity and mild operation conditions. Then, phage display technology and computer-assisted design are discussed as efficient methods for the rapid discovery of high-affinity peptide ligands. Finally, the VLP purification by affinity chromatography is analyzed. The process is significantly influenced by virus size and variation, ligand type and chromatographic mode. To address the updated regulatory requirements and epidemic outbreaks, technical innovations in affinity chromatography and process intensification and standardization in VLP purification should be promoted to achieve rapid process development and highly efficient VLP manufacturing, and emphasis is given to the discovery of universal ligands, applications of gigaporous matrices and platform technology. It is expected that the information in this review can provide a better understanding of the affinity chromatography methods available for VLP purification and offer useful guidance for the development of affinity chromatography for VLP manufacturing in the decades to come.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Ma
- Department of Biochemical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering and Frontiers Science Center for Synthetic Biology (Ministry of Education), Tianjin University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Zengquan Tian
- Department of Biochemical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering and Frontiers Science Center for Synthetic Biology (Ministry of Education), Tianjin University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Qinghong Shi
- Department of Biochemical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering and Frontiers Science Center for Synthetic Biology (Ministry of Education), Tianjin University, Tianjin 300350, China.
| | - Xiaoyan Dong
- Department of Biochemical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering and Frontiers Science Center for Synthetic Biology (Ministry of Education), Tianjin University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Yan Sun
- Department of Biochemical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering and Frontiers Science Center for Synthetic Biology (Ministry of Education), Tianjin University, Tianjin 300350, China.
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6
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Keller WR, Picciano A, Wilson K, Xu J, Khasa H, Wendeler M. Rational downstream development for adeno-associated virus full/empty capsid separation - A streamlined methodology based on high-throughput screening and mechanistic modeling. J Chromatogr A 2024; 1716:464632. [PMID: 38219623 DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2024.464632] [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: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
Recombinant adeno-associated virus (AAV) has emerged as one of the most promising systems for therapeutic gene delivery and has demonstrated clinical success in a wide range of genetic disorders. However, manufacturing of high-quality AAV in large amounts still remains a challenge. A significant difficulty for downstream processing is the need to remove empty capsids that are generated in all currently utilized expression systems and that represent product-related impurities that adversely affect safety and efficacy of AAV vectors. Empty and full capsids exhibit only subtle differences in surface charge and size, making chromatography-based separations highly challenging. Here, we present a rapid methodology for the systematic process development of the crucial AAV full/empty capsid separation on ion-exchange media based on high-throughput screening and mechanistic modeling. Two of the most commonly employed serotypes, AAV8 and AAV9, are used as case studies. First, high-throughput studies in filter-plate format are performed that allow the rapid and comprehensive study of binding and elution behavior of AAV on different resins, using different buffer systems, pH, salt conditions, and solution additives. Small amounts of separated empty and full AAV capsids are generated by iodixanol gradient centrifugation that allow studying the binding and elution behavior of the two vector species separately in miniaturized format. Process conditions that result in maximum differences in elution behavior between empty and full capsids are then transferred to benchtop chromatography systems that are used to generate calibration data for the estimation of steric mass-action isotherm and mass transport parameters for process simulation. The resulting column models are employed for in-silico process development that serves to enhance understanding of separation constraints and to identify optimized conditions for the removal of empty particles. Finally, optimized separation conditions are verified experimentally. The methodology presented in this work provides a systematic framework that affords mechanistic understanding of the crucial empty/full capsid separation and accelerates the development of a scalable AAV downstream process.
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Affiliation(s)
- William R Keller
- Purification Process Sciences, BioPharmaceuticals Development, R&D, AstraZeneca, Gaithersburg, United States
| | - Angela Picciano
- Purification Process Sciences, BioPharmaceuticals Development, R&D, AstraZeneca, Gaithersburg, United States
| | - Kelly Wilson
- Purification Process Sciences, BioPharmaceuticals Development, R&D, AstraZeneca, Gaithersburg, United States
| | - Jin Xu
- Cell Culture and Fermentation Sciences, BioPharmaceuticals Development, R&D, AstraZeneca, Gaithersburg, United States
| | - Harshit Khasa
- Analytical Sciences, BioPharmaceuticals Development, R&D, AstraZeneca, Gaithersburg, United States
| | - Michaela Wendeler
- Purification Process Sciences, BioPharmaceuticals Development, R&D, AstraZeneca, Gaithersburg, United States.
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7
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Di W, Koczera K, Zhang P, Chen DP, Warren JC, Huang C. Improved adeno-associated virus empty and full capsid separation using weak partitioning multi-column AEX chromatography. Biotechnol J 2024; 19:e2300245. [PMID: 38013662 DOI: 10.1002/biot.202300245] [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: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
Recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) empty and full capsid separation has been a topic of interest in the rAAV gene therapy community for many years and the anion exchange chromatography (AEX) step has undergone various process optimizations to improve rAAV empty capsid separation, including AEX stationary phase, mobile phase, and process parameters. Here, we present a new AEX method that employs both weak partitioning chromatography (WPC) and multi-column chromatography (MCC) to achieve improved full rAAV percentage in the AEX pool. The WPC technology allows empty rAAV to be displaced by full rAAV during loading, while the MCC technology enables parallel column processing which further increases AEX step productivity. Our results show that, compared to baseline AEX batch chromatography, the AEX-WPC-MCC method demonstrated improvements in both AEX pool full rAAV percentage (∼ 20% increase) and rAAV genome recovery (∼ 20% increase). As a result, the productivity (full capsid generated per liter of AEX column per hour of processing time) of the AEX step increased by ∼34-fold from the baseline AEX batch run to the AEX-WPC-MCC run. It is foreseeable that this AEX-WPC-MCC method could find applications in large-scale rAAV manufacturing processes to improve AEX yield and reduce the cost of goods of rAAV manufacturing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjun Di
- Pharmaceutical Development, Ultragenyx Pharmaceutical Inc., Woburn, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Kyle Koczera
- Pharmaceutical Development, Ultragenyx Pharmaceutical Inc., Woburn, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Peilun Zhang
- Pharmaceutical Development, Ultragenyx Pharmaceutical Inc., Woburn, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Dennis P Chen
- Pharmaceutical Development, Ultragenyx Pharmaceutical Inc., Woburn, Massachusetts, USA
| | - James C Warren
- Pharmaceutical Development, Ultragenyx Pharmaceutical Inc., Woburn, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Chao Huang
- Pharmaceutical Development, Ultragenyx Pharmaceutical Inc., Woburn, Massachusetts, USA
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8
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Leskovec M, Raspor A, Fujs V, Mihevc A, Štrancar A. Preferential exclusion chromatography as a capture step for extracellular AAV harvest from adherent and suspension productions. Electrophoresis 2023; 44:1934-1942. [PMID: 37599280 DOI: 10.1002/elps.202300038] [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: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
Preferential exclusion chromatography (PXC) sometimes described as hydrophobic interaction chromatography is a well-known, but not widely used technique for purification of Adeno-associated viruses. It employs high molarity of preferentially excluded cosolvent (salt in our case). The downside of this method is that high molarity of salt can lead to aggregation and precipitation of different compounds from the sample. In the case of viruses that are excreted to medium, the concentration of impurities is much lower compared to cell lysates, and PXC can be used as a first chromatographic, serotype independent step to concentrate and purify adeno-associated virus (AAV). Here, we explored PXC for adherent and suspension harvests using monolithic chromatographic columns (CIMmultus). Suspension extracellular adeno-associated virus, serotype 9 (AAV9) harvest had more impurities compared to adherent harvest, therefore it required higher input regarding method development. Final conditions for suspension harvest included higher molarity of binding salt and using more open channel format of chromatographic column (6 µm channel size). Vector genome analysis with droplet digital polymerase chain reaction (ddPCR) revealed 84% and 97% recovery for suspension and adherent AAV9 harvest, respectively. After PXC capture step, adherent AAV9 was purified by already described ion exchange techniques. Overall process vector genome recovery, from clarified harvest to anion exchange elution fraction, was 54% measured by ddPCR. Residual host cell DNA was measured at 40 ng per 1E13 vector genome, and empty AAV was below 5% in final anion exchange chromatography fraction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maja Leskovec
- Sartorius BIA Separations d.o.o., Ajdovščina, Slovenia
| | - Andrej Raspor
- Sartorius BIA Separations d.o.o., Ajdovščina, Slovenia
| | - Veronika Fujs
- Sartorius BIA Separations d.o.o., Ajdovščina, Slovenia
| | - Andrej Mihevc
- Sartorius BIA Separations d.o.o., Ajdovščina, Slovenia
| | - Aleš Štrancar
- Sartorius BIA Separations d.o.o., Ajdovščina, Slovenia
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9
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Lavoie RA, Zugates JT, Cheeseman AT, Teten MA, Ramesh S, Freeman JM, Swango S, Fitzpatrick J, Joshi A, Hollers B, Debebe Z, Lindgren TK, Kozak AN, Kondeti VK, Bright MK, Yearley EJ, Tracy A, Irwin JA, Guerrero M. Enrichment of adeno-associated virus serotype 5 full capsids by anion exchange chromatography with dual salt elution gradients. Biotechnol Bioeng 2023; 120:2953-2968. [PMID: 37256741 DOI: 10.1002/bit.28453] [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: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus-based gene therapies have demonstrated substantial therapeutic benefit for the treatment of genetic disorders. In manufacturing processes, viral capsids are produced with and without the encapsidated gene of interest. Capsids devoid of the gene of interest, or "empty" capsids, represent a product-related impurity. As a result, a robust and scalable method to enrich full capsids is crucial to provide patients with as much potentially active product as possible. Anion exchange chromatography has emerged as a highly utilized method for full capsid enrichment across many serotypes due to its ease of use, robustness, and scalability. However, achieving sufficient resolution between the full and empty capsids is not trivial. In this work, anion exchange chromatography was used to achieve empty and full capsid resolution for adeno-associated virus serotype 5. A salt gradient screen of multiple salts with varied valency and Hofmeister series properties was performed to determine optimal peak resolution and aggregate reduction. Dual salt effects were evaluated on the same product and process attributes to identify any synergies with the use of mixed ion gradients. The modified process provided as high as ≥75% AAV5 full capsids (≥3-fold enrichment based on the percent full in the feed stream) with near baseline separation of empty capsids and achieved an overall vector genome step yield of >65%.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Matt A Teten
- BridgeBio Gene Therapy LLC, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | | | | | - Summer Swango
- BridgeBio Gene Therapy LLC, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | | | - Amod Joshi
- BridgeBio Gene Therapy LLC, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | | | | | | | - Amber N Kozak
- BridgeBio Gene Therapy LLC, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | | | - Mary K Bright
- BridgeBio Gene Therapy LLC, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | - Eric J Yearley
- BridgeBio Gene Therapy LLC, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | | | - Jacob A Irwin
- BridgeBio Gene Therapy LLC, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
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10
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Troxell B, Jaslow SL, Tsai IW, Sullivan C, Draper BE, Jarrold MF, Lindsey K, Blue L. Partial genome content within rAAVs impacts performance in a cell assay-dependent manner. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2023; 30:288-302. [PMID: 37583716 PMCID: PMC10423999 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2023.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/17/2023]
Abstract
Recombinant adeno-associated viruses (rAAVs) deliver DNA to numerous cell types. However, packaging of partial genomes into the rAAV capsid is of concern. Although empty rAAV capsids are studied, there is little information regarding the impact of partial DNA content on rAAV performance in controlled studies. To address this, we tested vectors containing varying levels of partial, self-complementary EGFP genomes. Density gradient cesium chloride ultracentrifugation was used to isolate three distinct rAAV populations: (1) a lighter fraction, (2) a moderate fraction, and (3) a heavy fraction. Alkaline gels, Illumina Mi-Seq, size exclusion chromatography with multi-angle light scattering (SEC-MALS), and charge detection mass spectrometry (CD-MS) were used to characterize the genome of each population and ddPCR to quantify residual DNA molecules. Live-cell imaging and EGFP ELISA assays demonstrated reduced expression following transduction with the light fraction compared with the moderate and heavy fractions. However, PCR-based assays showed that the light density delivered EGFP DNA to cells as efficiently as the moderate and heavy fractions. Mi-Seq data revealed an underrepresentation of the promoter region for EGFP, suggesting that expression of EGFP was reduced because of lack of regulatory control. This work demonstrates that rAAVs containing partial genomes contribute to the DNA signal but have reduced vector performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan Troxell
- StrideBio Analytical Development and Quality Control, 5 Laboratory Drive, Suite 1200, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
- AjaxBio, LLC, Holly Springs, NC 27540, USA
| | - Sarah L. Jaslow
- StrideBio Analytical Development and Quality Control, 5 Laboratory Drive, Suite 1200, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - I-Wei Tsai
- StrideBio Analytical Development and Quality Control, 5 Laboratory Drive, Suite 1200, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Chelsea Sullivan
- StrideBio Analytical Development and Quality Control, 5 Laboratory Drive, Suite 1200, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Benjamin E. Draper
- Megadalton Solutions, Inc., 3750 E. Bluebird Ln., Bloomington, IN 47401, USA
| | - Martin F. Jarrold
- Chemistry Department, Indiana University, 800 E. Kirkwood Avenue, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA
| | - Kate Lindsey
- StrideBio Analytical Development and Quality Control, 5 Laboratory Drive, Suite 1200, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Levi Blue
- StrideBio Analytical Development and Quality Control, 5 Laboratory Drive, Suite 1200, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
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11
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Fu Q, Polanco A, Lee YS, Yoon S. Critical challenges and advances in recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) biomanufacturing. Biotechnol Bioeng 2023; 120:2601-2621. [PMID: 37126355 DOI: 10.1002/bit.28412] [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: 02/10/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Gene therapy is a promising therapeutic approach for genetic and acquired diseases nowadays. Among DNA delivery vectors, recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) is one of the most effective and safest vectors used in commercial drugs and clinical trials. However, the current yield of rAAV biomanufacturing lags behind the necessary dosages for clinical and commercial use, which embodies a concentrated reflection of low productivity of rAAV from host cells, difficult scalability of the rAAV-producing bioprocess, and high levels of impurities materialized during production. Those issues directly impact the price of gene therapy medicine in the market, limiting most patients' access to gene therapy. In this context, the current practices and several critical challenges associated with rAAV gene therapy bioprocesses are reviewed, followed by a discussion of recent advances in rAAV-mediated gene therapy and other therapeutic biological fields that could improve biomanufacturing if these advances are integrated effectively into the current systems. This review aims to provide the current state-of-the-art technology and perspectives to enhance the productivity of rAAV while reducing impurities during production of rAAV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Fu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Biotechnology, The University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ashli Polanco
- Department of Chemical Engineering, The University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Yong Suk Lee
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Seongkyu Yoon
- Department of Chemical Engineering, The University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, Massachusetts, USA
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12
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Lothert K, Wolff MW. Affinity and Pseudo-Affinity Membrane Chromatography for Viral Vector and Vaccine Purifications: A Review. MEMBRANES 2023; 13:770. [PMID: 37755191 PMCID: PMC10537005 DOI: 10.3390/membranes13090770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
Several chromatographic approaches have been established over the last decades for the production of pharmaceutically relevant viruses. Due to the large size of these products compared to other biopharmaceuticals, e.g., proteins, convective flow media have proven to be superior to bead-based resins in terms of process productivity and column capacity. One representative of such convective flow materials is membranes, which can be modified to suit the particular operating principle and are also suitable for economical single-use applications. Among the different membrane variants, affinity surfaces allow for the most selective separation of the target molecule from other components in the feed solution, especially from host cell-derived DNA and proteins. A successful membrane affinity chromatography, however, requires the identification and implementation of ligands, which can be applied economically while at the same time being stable during the process and non-toxic in the case of any leaching. This review summarizes the current evaluation of membrane-based affinity purifications for viruses and virus-like particles, including traditional resin and monolith approaches and the advantages of membrane applications. An overview of potential affinity ligands is given, as well as considerations of suitable affinity platform technologies, e.g., for different virus serotypes, including a description of processes using pseudo-affinity matrices, such as sulfated cellulose membrane adsorbers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michael W. Wolff
- Institute of Bioprocess Engineering and Pharmaceutical Technology, Department Life Science Engineering, University of Applied Sciences Mittelhessen (THM), 35390 Giessen, Germany
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13
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Neto S, Mendes JP, Santos SBD, Solbrand A, Carrondo MJT, Peixoto C, Silva RJS. Efficient adeno-associated virus serotype 5 capture with affinity functionalized nanofiber adsorbents. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1183974. [PMID: 37260828 PMCID: PMC10229133 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1183974] [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: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) are one of the most promising tools for gene therapy applications. These vectors are purified using affinity and ion exchange chromatography, typically using packed beds of resin adsorbents. This leads to diffusion and pressure drop limitations that affect process productivity. Due to their high surface area and porosity, electrospun nanofiber adsorbents offer mass transfer and flow rate advantages over conventional chromatographic media. The present work investigated the use of affinity cellulose-based nanofiber adsorbents for adeno-associated virus serotype 5 (AAV5) capture, evaluating dynamic binding capacity, pressure drop, and AAV5 recovery at residence times (RT) less than 5 s. The dynamic binding capacity was found to be residence time-dependent, but nevertheless higher than 1.0 × 1014 TP mL-1 (RT = 1.6 s), with a pressure drop variation of 0.14 MPa obtained after loading more than 2,000 column volumes of clarified AAV5 feedstock. The single affinity chromatography purification step using these new affinity adsorbents resulted in 80% virus recovery, with the removal of impurities comparable to that of bead-based affinity adsorbents. The high binding capacity, virus recovery and reduced pressure drop observed at residence times in the sub-minute range can potentially eliminate the need for prior concentration steps, thereby reducing the overall number of unit operations, process time and costs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salomé Neto
- iBET, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, Oeiras, Portugal
- ITQB NOVA, Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - João P. Mendes
- iBET, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, Oeiras, Portugal
- ITQB NOVA, Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Portugal
| | | | | | | | - Cristina Peixoto
- iBET, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, Oeiras, Portugal
- ITQB NOVA, Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Ricardo J. S. Silva
- iBET, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, Oeiras, Portugal
- ITQB NOVA, Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Portugal
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14
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Wagner C, Innthaler B, Lemmerer M, Pletzenauer R, Birner-Gruenberger R. Biophysical Characterization of Adeno-Associated Virus Vectors Using Ion-Exchange Chromatography Coupled to Light Scattering Detectors. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:12715. [PMID: 36361506 PMCID: PMC9655919 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232112715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 09/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Ion-exchange chromatography coupled to light scattering detectors represents a fast and simple analytical method for the assessment of multiple critical quality attributes (CQA) in one single measurement. The determination of CQAs play a crucial role in Adeno-Associated Virus (AAV)-based gene therapies and their applications in humans. Today, several different analytical techniques, including size-exclusion chromatography (SEC), analytical ultracentrifugation (AUC), qPCR or ELISA, are commonly used to characterize the gene therapy product regarding capsid titer, packaging efficiency, vector genome integrity, aggregation content and other process-related impurities. However, no universal method for the simultaneous determination of multiple CQAs is currently available. Here, we present a novel robust ion-exchange chromatography method coupled to multi-angle light scattering detectors (IEC-MALS) for the comprehensive characterization of empty and filled AAVs concerning capsid titer, full-to-total ratio, absolute molar mass of the protein and nucleic acid, and the size and polydispersity without baseline-separation of both species prior to data analysis. We demonstrate that the developed IEC-MALS assay is applicable to different serotypes and can be used as an orthogonal method to other established analytical techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Wagner
- Analytical Development Europe, Takeda Vienna, 1220 Vienna, Austria
| | - Bernd Innthaler
- Gene Therapy Process Development, Takeda Orth an der Donau, 2304 Orth an der Donau, Austria
| | - Martin Lemmerer
- Analytical Development Europe, Takeda Vienna, 1220 Vienna, Austria
| | - Robert Pletzenauer
- Gene Therapy Process Development, Takeda Orth an der Donau, 2304 Orth an der Donau, Austria
| | - Ruth Birner-Gruenberger
- Institute of Chemical Technologies and Analytics, Technische Universität Wien, 1060 Vienna, Austria
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15
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Mendes JP, Bergman M, Solbrand A, Peixoto C, Carrondo MJT, Silva RJS. Continuous Affinity Purification of Adeno-Associated Virus Using Periodic Counter-Current Chromatography. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:1346. [PMID: 35890242 PMCID: PMC9323845 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14071346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Revised: 06/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Replacing batch unit operations of biopharmaceuticals by continuous manufacturing is a maturing concept, with periodic counter-current chromatography (PCC) favoured to replace batch chromatography. Continuous affinity capture of adeno-associated virus (AAV) using PCC has the potential to cope with the high doses required for AAV therapies thanks to its inherent high throughput. The implementation of continuous AAV affinity capture using a four-column PCC process is described herein. First, elution buffer screening was used to optimize virus recovery. Second, breakthrough curves were generated and described using a mechanistic model, which was later used to characterize the loading zone of the PCC. The experimental runs achieved a stable cyclic steady state yielding virus recoveries in line with the optimized batch process (>82%), with almost a three-fold improvement in productivity. The PCC affinity capture process developed here can bolster further improvements to process economics and manufacturing footprint, thereby contributing to the integrated continuous manufacturing concept.
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Affiliation(s)
- João P. Mendes
- iBET, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, Apartado 12, 2780-901 Oeiras, Portugal; (J.P.M.); (C.P.); (M.J.T.C.)
- ITQB NOVA, Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Av. da República, 2780-157 Oeiras, Portugal
| | | | | | - Cristina Peixoto
- iBET, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, Apartado 12, 2780-901 Oeiras, Portugal; (J.P.M.); (C.P.); (M.J.T.C.)
- ITQB NOVA, Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Av. da República, 2780-157 Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Manuel J. T. Carrondo
- iBET, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, Apartado 12, 2780-901 Oeiras, Portugal; (J.P.M.); (C.P.); (M.J.T.C.)
- ITQB NOVA, Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Av. da República, 2780-157 Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Ricardo J. S. Silva
- iBET, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, Apartado 12, 2780-901 Oeiras, Portugal; (J.P.M.); (C.P.); (M.J.T.C.)
- ITQB NOVA, Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Av. da República, 2780-157 Oeiras, Portugal
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16
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Konstantinidis S, Poplyk MR, Swartz AR, Rustandi RR, Thompson R, Wang SC. Application of cation exchange chromatography in bind and elute and flowthrough mode for the purification of enteroviruses. J Chromatogr A 2022; 1676:463259. [PMID: 35759911 DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2022.463259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Revised: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Members of the enterovirus genus are promising oncolytic agents. Their morphogenesis involves the generation of both genome-packed infectious capsids and empty capsids. The latter are typically considered as an impurity in need of removal from the final product. The separation of empty and full capsids can take place with centrifugation methods, which are of low throughput and poorly scalable, or scalable chromatographic processes, which typically require peak cutting and a significant trade-off between purity and yield. Here we demonstrate the application of packed bed cation exchange (CEX) column chromatography for the separation of empty capsids from infectious virions for a prototype strain of Coxsackievirus A21. This separation was developed using high throughput chromatography techniques and scaled up as a bind and elute polishing step. The separation was robust over a wide range of operating conditions and returned highly resolved empty and full capsids. The CEX step could be operated in bind and elute or flowthrough mode with similar selectivity and returned yields greater than 70% for full mature virus particles. Similar performance was also achieved using a selection of other bead based CEX chromatography media, demonstrating general applicability of this type of chromatography for Coxsackievirus A21 purification. These results highlight the wide applicability and excellent performance of CEX chromatography for the purification of enteroviruses, such as Coxsackievirus A21.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Murphy R Poplyk
- Vaccine Process Research and Development, Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, USA
| | - Andrew R Swartz
- Vaccine Process Research and Development, Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, USA
| | | | - Rachel Thompson
- Analytical Research and Development, Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, USA
| | - Sheng-Ching Wang
- Vaccine Process Research and Development, Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, USA
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17
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Yang O, Tao Y, Qadan M, Ierapetritou M. Process Design and Comparison for Batch and Continuous Manufacturing of Recombinant Adeno-Associated Virus. J Pharm Innov 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s12247-022-09645-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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18
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Buss N, Lanigan L, Zeller J, Cissell D, Metea M, Adams E, Higgins M, Kim KH, Budzynski E, Yang L, Liu Y, Butt M, Danos O, Fiscella M. Characterization of AAV-mediated dorsal root ganglionopathy. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2022; 24:342-354. [PMID: 35229008 PMCID: PMC8851102 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2022.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Recent studies in non-human primates administered recombinant adeno-associated viruses (rAAVs) have shown lesions in the dorsal root ganglia (DRG) of unknown pathogenesis. In this study, rAAV9s manufactured using different purification methods alongside a non-expressing Null AAV9 vector was administered to groups of cynomolgus monkeys followed by neuropathological evaluation after 4 weeks. Lesions, including neuronal degeneration, increased cellularity, and nerve fiber degeneration, were observed in the DRG, regardless of purification methods. Animals did not develop any neurological signs throughout the study, and there was no loss of function observed in neuro-electrophysiological endpoints or clear effects on intraepidermal nerve fiber density. However, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of animals with axonopathy showed an increase in short tau inversion recovery (STIR) intensity and decrease in fractional anisotropy. In animals administered the Null AAV9 vector, DRG lesions were not observed despite vector DNA being detected in the DRG at levels equivalent to or greater than rAAV9-treated animals. This study further supports that DRG toxicity is associated with transgene overexpression in DRGs, with particular sensitivity at the lumbar and lumbosacral level. The data from this study also showed that the nerve fiber degeneration did not correlate with any functional effect on nerve conduction but was detectable by MRI.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Monica Metea
- Preclinical Electrophysiology Consulting, Mattapoisett, MA 02739, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Lin Yang
- REGENXBIO, Rockville, MD 20850, USA
| | - Ye Liu
- REGENXBIO, Rockville, MD 20850, USA
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19
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Guan JS, Chen K, Si Y, Kim T, Zhou Z, Kim S, Zhou L, Liu X“M. Process improvement of adeno-associated virus (AAV) production. FRONTIERS IN CHEMICAL ENGINEERING 2022; 4:830421. [PMID: 35685827 PMCID: PMC9176270 DOI: 10.3389/fceng.2022.830421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) have been well characterized and used to deliver therapeutic genes for diseases treatment in clinics and basic research. This study used the triple transient transfection of AAV-DJ/8 as a model expression system to develop and optimize the laboratory production of AAV for research and pre-clinical applications. Specifically, various production parameters, including host cell, transfection reagent, cell density, ratio of plasmid DNA and cells, gene size, and production mode, were tested to determine the optimal process. Our results showed that the adherent production using HEK 293AAV with calcium transfection generated the highest volumetric productivity of 7.86x109 gc/mL. The optimal suspensive production using HEK 293F had best AAV productivity of 5.78x109 gc/mL in serum-free medium under transfection conditions of transfection density of 0.4x106 cells/mL, plasmid DNA:cells ratio of 1.6 μg:106 cells and synthesized cationic liposomes as transfection reagent. The similar AAV productivity was confirmed at scales of 30 mL - 450 mL in shaker and/or spinner flasks. The in vitro transfection and in vivo infection efficiency of the harvested AAV-DJ/8 carrying luciferase reporter gene was confirmed using cell line and xenograft mouse model, respectively. The minimal or low purification recovery rate of AAV-DJ/8 in ion-exchange chromatography column and affinity column was observed in this study. In summary, we developed and optimized a scalable suspensive production of AAV to support the large-scale preclinical animal studies in research laboratories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Shiung Guan
- Department of Medicine, UAB, 703 19 Street South, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Kai Chen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), 1825 University Blvd, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Yingnan Si
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), 1825 University Blvd, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Taehyun Kim
- Department of Medicine, UAB, 703 19 Street South, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Zhuoxin Zhou
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), 1825 University Blvd, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Seulhee Kim
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), 1825 University Blvd, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Lufang Zhou
- Department of Medicine, UAB, 703 19 Street South, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Xiaoguang “Margaret” Liu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), 1825 University Blvd, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
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20
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Quan DN, Shiloach J. rAAV Production and Titration at the Microscale for High-Throughput Screening. Hum Gene Ther 2022; 33:94-102. [PMID: 34328798 PMCID: PMC8819507 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2021.080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
In the literature, there are few high-throughput screens or even methods for high-throughput screens of recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) production despite potential benefits to research and production. In this study, a generalizable high-throughput relative rAAV titration method is examined within the context of an siRNA screen as siRNA knockdown is a common means of pathway engineering in bioproduction. Crude samples generated from transfected HEK293T/17 cultures were subjected to quantitative PCR (qPCR) and used to transduce COS7 cells to assess relative differences in genomic and infectious rAAV titer, respectively, at the 384-well scale, evaluating both supernatant and lysed samples. To evaluate relevant differences in titer for conditions that could be used in an actual screen, cultures subjected to an siRNA reverse transfection and subsequent rAAV forward transfection were also tested. The delayed forward rAAV triple-plasmid transfection was not seen to affect the siRNA activity of tested controls, while siRNA transfection was shown to measurably impact rAAV titer. Effective differentiation between infectious titer levels was dependent upon the choice of sample dilution, but trends between qPCR and infectious titer assays were consistent across sample sets.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Nathan Quan
- NIDDK Biotechnology Core, NIDDK, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Joseph Shiloach
- NIDDK Biotechnology Core, NIDDK, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA.,Correspondence: Dr. Joseph Shiloach, NIDDK Biotechnology Core, National Institutes of Health, 14 Service Road W, Bethesda, MD 20894, USA.
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21
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Fu X, Williams A, Bakhshayeshi M, Pieracci J. Leveraging high-throughput purification to accelerate viral vector process development. J Chromatogr A 2021; 1663:462744. [PMID: 34971861 DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2021.462744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Recombinant adeno-associated virus (AAV) has been broadly used as a delivery tool for gene therapy applications. The development of a robust purification process is essential for delivering high purity and quality AAV products to clinic. The short clinical timelines and material limitations of early-stage development pose unique challenges to developing robust and scalable downstream purification processes. One approach to overcome these limitations is to leverage high throughput (HTP) strategies and automation technologies for purification process development, an approach that is well established in protein biologics and other areas. However, due to the unique challenges related to viral vector purification, implementing HTP approaches for gene therapy process development has not been explored extensively. In this paper, we established a HTP chromatography platform and demonstrated its capability to facilitate gene therapy purification process development using both mini-columns and self-packed resin plates. The end-to-end development workflow for AAV HTP purification is detailed in this work with the expectation of serving as an introductory for the AAV purification development field. Comparable process performance was confirmed between a bench-scale chromatography process and an HTP chromatography format. Slightly lower recovery was observed using the HTP format (62% vs 75%), as well as %full capsid enrichment (71% vs. 82%). Comparable impurity clearance capability was demonstrated between the two different systems as well. It was concluded that the established HTP chromatography formats can serve as a surrogate to bench-scale chromatography development to reduce material needs and development timelines for AAV purification development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaotong Fu
- Gene Therapy Process Development, Biogen, 225 Binney St, Cambridge, MA 02142, United States.
| | - Asher Williams
- Gene Therapy Process Development, Biogen, 225 Binney St, Cambridge, MA 02142, United States
| | - Meisam Bakhshayeshi
- Gene Therapy Process Development, Biogen, 225 Binney St, Cambridge, MA 02142, United States
| | - John Pieracci
- Gene Therapy Process Development, Biogen, 225 Binney St, Cambridge, MA 02142, United States
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22
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Behr M, Zhou J, Xu B, Zhang H. In vivo delivery of CRISPR-Cas9 therapeutics: Progress and challenges. Acta Pharm Sin B 2021; 11:2150-2171. [PMID: 34522582 PMCID: PMC8424283 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2021.05.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Revised: 03/21/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Within less than a decade since its inception, CRISPR-Cas9-based genome editing has been rapidly advanced to human clinical trials in multiple disease areas. Although it is highly anticipated that this revolutionary technology will bring novel therapeutic modalities to many diseases by precisely manipulating cellular DNA sequences, the low efficiency of in vivo delivery must be enhanced before its therapeutic potential can be fully realized. Here we discuss the most recent progress of in vivo delivery of CRISPR-Cas9 systems, highlight innovative viral and non-viral delivery technologies, emphasize outstanding delivery challenges, and provide the most updated perspectives.
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23
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Tustian AD, Bak H. Assessment of quality attributes for adeno-associated viral vectors. Biotechnol Bioeng 2021; 118:4186-4203. [PMID: 34309017 DOI: 10.1002/bit.27905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Revised: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
There is a strong and growing interest in the development and production of gene therapy products, including those utilizing adeno-associated virus (AAV) particles. This is evident with the increase in the number of clinical trials and agency approvals for AAV therapeutics. As bioproduction of AAV viral vectors matures, a quality by design (QbD) approach to process development can aid in process robustness and product quality. Furthermore, it may become a regulatory expectation. The first step in any QbD approach is to determine what physical, chemical, biological, or microbiological property or characteristic product attributes should be controlled within an appropriate limit, range, or distribution to ensure the desired product quality. Then predefined goals are set to allow proactive process development to design in quality. This review lists typical quality attributes used for release testing of AAV viral vectors and discusses these and selected attributes important to extended characterization studies in terms of safety, efficacy, and impact upon the patient immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hanne Bak
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc., Tarrytown, NY, USA
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24
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Rieser R, Koch J, Faccioli G, Richter K, Menzen T, Biel M, Winter G, Michalakis S. Comparison of Different Liquid Chromatography-Based Purification Strategies for Adeno-Associated Virus Vectors. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13050748. [PMID: 34070226 PMCID: PMC8158740 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13050748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Revised: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) vectors have evolved as one of the most promising technologies for gene therapy due to their good safety profile, high transduction efficacy, and long-term gene expression in nondividing cells. rAAV-based gene therapy holds great promise for treating genetic disorders like inherited blindness, muscular atrophy, or bleeding disorders. There is a high demand for efficient and scalable production and purification methods for rAAVs. This is particularly true for the downstream purification methods. The current standard methods are based on multiple steps of gradient ultracentrifugation, which allow for the purification and enrichment of full rAAV particles, but the scale up of this method is challenging. Here, we explored fast, scalable, and universal liquid chromatography-based strategies for the purification of rAAVs. In contrast to the hydrophobic interaction chromatography (HIC), where a substantial amount of AAV was lost, the cation exchange chromatography (CEX) was performed robustly for multiple tested serotypes and resulted in a mixture of full and empty rAAVs with a good purity profile. For the used affinity chromatography (AC), a serotype dependence was observed. Anion exchange chromatography (AEX) worked well for the AAV8 serotype and achieved high levels of purification and a baseline separation of full and empty rAAVs. Depending on the AAV serotype, a combination of CEX and AEX or AC and AEX is recommended and holds promise for future translational projects that require highly pure and full particle-enriched rAAVs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Rieser
- Department of Pharmacy—Center for Drug Research, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Butenandtstr. 5-13, 81377 Munich, Germany; (R.R.); (J.K.); (G.F.); (M.B.)
| | - Johanna Koch
- Department of Pharmacy—Center for Drug Research, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Butenandtstr. 5-13, 81377 Munich, Germany; (R.R.); (J.K.); (G.F.); (M.B.)
| | - Greta Faccioli
- Department of Pharmacy—Center for Drug Research, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Butenandtstr. 5-13, 81377 Munich, Germany; (R.R.); (J.K.); (G.F.); (M.B.)
| | - Klaus Richter
- Coriolis Pharma, Fraunhoferstr. 18 b, 82152 Martinsried, Germany; (K.R.); (T.M.)
| | - Tim Menzen
- Coriolis Pharma, Fraunhoferstr. 18 b, 82152 Martinsried, Germany; (K.R.); (T.M.)
| | - Martin Biel
- Department of Pharmacy—Center for Drug Research, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Butenandtstr. 5-13, 81377 Munich, Germany; (R.R.); (J.K.); (G.F.); (M.B.)
| | - Gerhard Winter
- Department of Pharmacy—Center for Drug Research, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Butenandtstr. 5-13, 81377 Munich, Germany; (R.R.); (J.K.); (G.F.); (M.B.)
- Correspondence: (G.W.); (S.M.)
| | - Stylianos Michalakis
- Department of Pharmacy—Center for Drug Research, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Butenandtstr. 5-13, 81377 Munich, Germany; (R.R.); (J.K.); (G.F.); (M.B.)
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Mathildenstr. 8, 80336 Munich, Germany
- Correspondence: (G.W.); (S.M.)
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25
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Ertl HCJ. T Cell-Mediated Immune Responses to AAV and AAV Vectors. Front Immunol 2021; 12:666666. [PMID: 33927727 PMCID: PMC8076552 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.666666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated gene transfer has benefited patients with inherited diseases, such as hemophilia B, by achieving long-term expression of the therapeutic transgene. Nevertheless, challenges remain due to rejection of AAV-transduced cells, which in some, but not all, patients can be prevented by immunosuppression. It is assumed that CD8+ T cells induced by natural infections with AAVs are recalled by the AAV vector's capsid and upon activation eliminate cells expressing the degraded capsid antigens. Alternatively, it is feasible that AAV vectors, especially if given at high doses, induce de novo capsid- or transgene product-specific T cell responses. This chapter discusses CD8+ T cell responses to AAV infections and AAV gene transfer and avenues to prevent their activation or block their effector functions.
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Srivastava A, Mallela KMG, Deorkar N, Brophy G. Manufacturing Challenges and Rational Formulation Development for AAV Viral Vectors. J Pharm Sci 2021; 110:2609-2624. [PMID: 33812887 DOI: 10.1016/j.xphs.2021.03.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV) has emerged as a leading platform for gene delivery for treating various diseases due to its excellent safety profile and efficient transduction to various target tissues. However, the large-scale production and long-term storage of viral vectors is not efficient resulting in lower yields, moderate purity, and shorter shelf-life compared to recombinant protein therapeutics. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of upstream, downstream and formulation unit operation challenges encountered during AAV vector manufacturing, and discusses how desired product quality attributes can be maintained throughout product shelf-life by understanding the degradation mechanisms and formulation strategies. The mechanisms of various physical and chemical instabilities that the viral vector may encounter during its production and shelf-life because of various stressed conditions such as thermal, shear, freeze-thaw, and light exposure are highlighted. The role of buffer, pH, excipients, and impurities on the stability of viral vectors is also discussed. As such, the aim of this review is to outline the tools and a potential roadmap for improving the quality of AAV-based drug products by stressing the need for a mechanistic understanding of the involved processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arvind Srivastava
- Biopharma Production, Avantor, Inc., 1013 US Highway, 202/206, Bridgewater, NJ, United States.
| | - Krishna M G Mallela
- Center for Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12850 East Montview Boulevard, MS C238-V20, Aurora, CO 80045, United States.
| | - Nandkumar Deorkar
- Biopharma Production, Avantor, Inc., 1013 US Highway, 202/206, Bridgewater, NJ, United States
| | - Ger Brophy
- Biopharma Production, Avantor, Inc., 1013 US Highway, 202/206, Bridgewater, NJ, United States
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27
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Joshi PRH, Bernier A, Moço PD, Schrag J, Chahal PS, Kamen A. Development of a scalable and robust AEX method for enriched rAAV preparations in genome-containing VCs of serotypes 5, 6, 8, and 9. MOLECULAR THERAPY-METHODS & CLINICAL DEVELOPMENT 2021; 21:341-356. [PMID: 33898632 PMCID: PMC8056178 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2021.03.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2020] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Removal of empty capsids from adeno-associated virus (AAV) manufacturing lots remains a critical step in the downstream processing of AAV clinical-grade batches. Because of similar physico-chemical characteristics, the AAV capsid populations totally lacking or containing partial viral DNA are difficult to separate from the desired vector capsid populations. Based on minute differences in density, ultracentrifugation remains the most effective separation method and has been extensively used at small scale but has limitations associated with availabilities and operational complexities in large-scale processing. In this paper, we report a scalable, robust, and versatile anion-exchange chromatography (AEX) method for removing empty capsids and subsequent enrichment of vectors of AAV serotypes 5, 6, 8, and 9. On average, AEX resulted in about 9-fold enrichment of AAV5 in a single step containing 80% ± 5% genome-containing vector capsids, as verified and quantified by analytical ultracentrifugation. The optimized process was further validated using AAV6, AAV8, and AAV9, resulting in over 90% vector enrichment. The AEX process showed comparable results not only for vectors with different transgenes of different sizes but also for AEX runs under different geometries of chromatographic media. The herein-reported sulfate-salt-based AEX process can be adapted to different AAV serotypes by appropriately adjusting elution conditions to achieve enriched vector preparations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pranav R H Joshi
- Viral Vectors and Vaccine Bioprocessing Group, Department of Bioengineering, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Alice Bernier
- Viral Vectors and Vaccine Bioprocessing Group, Department of Bioengineering, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Pablo D Moço
- Viral Vectors and Vaccine Bioprocessing Group, Department of Bioengineering, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Joseph Schrag
- Human Health Therapeutics, National Research Council of Canada, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Parminder S Chahal
- Human Health Therapeutics, National Research Council of Canada, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Amine Kamen
- Viral Vectors and Vaccine Bioprocessing Group, Department of Bioengineering, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
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29
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El Andari J, Grimm D. Production, Processing, and Characterization of Synthetic AAV Gene Therapy Vectors. Biotechnol J 2020; 16:e2000025. [PMID: 32975881 DOI: 10.1002/biot.202000025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Revised: 09/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Over the last two decades, gene therapy vectors based on wild-type Adeno-associated viruses (AAV) are safe and efficacious in numerous clinical trials and are translated into three approved gene therapy products. Concomitantly, a large body of preclinical work has illustrated the power and potential of engineered synthetic AAV capsids that often excel in terms of an organ or cell specificity, the efficiency of in vitro or in vivo gene transfer, and/or reactivity with anti-AAV immune responses. In turn, this has created a demand for new, scalable, easy-to-implement, and plug-and-play platform processes that are compatible with the rapidly increasing range of AAV capsid variants. Here, the focus is on recent advances in methodologies for downstream processing and characterization of natural or synthetic AAV vectors, comprising different chromatography techniques and thermostability measurements. To illustrate the breadth of this portfolio, two chimeric capsids are used as representative examples that are derived through forward- or backwards-directed molecular evolution, namely, AAV-DJ and Anc80. Collectively, this ever-expanding arsenal of technologies promises to facilitate the development of the next AAV vector generation derived from synthetic capsids and to accelerate their manufacturing, and to thus boost the field of human gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jihad El Andari
- Dept. of Infectious Diseases/Virology, Medical Faculty, University of Heidelberg, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.,BioQuant, Cluster of Excellence CellNetworks, University of Heidelberg, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Dirk Grimm
- Dept. of Infectious Diseases/Virology, Medical Faculty, University of Heidelberg, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.,BioQuant, Cluster of Excellence CellNetworks, University of Heidelberg, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.,German Center for Infection Research (DZIF) and German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), partner site Heidelberg, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
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30
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Mietzsch M, Smith JK, Yu JC, Banala V, Emmanuel SN, Jose A, Chipman P, Bhattacharya N, McKenna R, Agbandje-McKenna M. Characterization of AAV-Specific Affinity Ligands: Consequences for Vector Purification and Development Strategies. MOLECULAR THERAPY-METHODS & CLINICAL DEVELOPMENT 2020; 19:362-373. [PMID: 33145372 PMCID: PMC7591348 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2020.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 10/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Affinity-based purification of adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors has replaced density-based methods for vectors used in clinical settings. This method utilizes camelid single-domain antibodies recognizing AAV capsids. These include AVB Sepharose (AVB) and POROS CaptureSelect affinity ligand for AAV8 (CSAL8) and AAV9 (CSAL9). In this study, we utilized cryo-electron microscopy and 3D image reconstruction to map the binding sites of these affinity ligands on the capsids of several AAV serotypes, including AAV1, AAV2, AAV5, AAV8, and AAV9, representing the range of sequence and structure diversity among AAVs. The AAV-ligand complex structures showed that AVB and CSAL9 bound to the 5-fold capsid region, although in different orientations, and CSAL8 bound to the side of the 3-fold protrusion. The AAV contact residues required for ligand binding, and thus AAV purification, and the ability of the ligands to neutralize infection were analyzed. The data show that only a few residues within the epitopes served to block affinity ligand binding. Neutralization was observed for AAV1 and AAV5 with AVB, for AAV1 with CSAL8, and for AAV9 with CSAL9, associated with regions that overlap with epitopes for neutralizing monoclonal antibodies against these capsids. This information is critical and could be generally applicable in the development of novel AAV vectors amenable to affinity column purification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Mietzsch
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Center for Structural Biology, McKnight Brain Institute, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - J Kennon Smith
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Center for Structural Biology, McKnight Brain Institute, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Jennifer C Yu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Center for Structural Biology, McKnight Brain Institute, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Vibhu Banala
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Center for Structural Biology, McKnight Brain Institute, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Shanan N Emmanuel
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Center for Structural Biology, McKnight Brain Institute, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Ariana Jose
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Center for Structural Biology, McKnight Brain Institute, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Paul Chipman
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Center for Structural Biology, McKnight Brain Institute, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Nilakshee Bhattacharya
- Biological Science Imaging Resource, Department of Biological Sciences, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA
| | - Robert McKenna
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Center for Structural Biology, McKnight Brain Institute, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Mavis Agbandje-McKenna
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Center for Structural Biology, McKnight Brain Institute, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
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31
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Adams B, Bak H, Tustian AD. Moving from the bench towards a large scale, industrial platform process for adeno‐associated viral vector purification. Biotechnol Bioeng 2020; 117:3199-3211. [DOI: 10.1002/bit.27472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Revised: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Hanne Bak
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc. Tarrytown New York
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32
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Abstract
The geminivirus capsid architecture is unique and built from twinned pseudo T=1 icosahedrons with 110 copies of the coat protein (CP). The CP is multifunctional. It performs various functions during the infection of a wide range of agriculturally important plant hosts. The CP multimerizes via pentameric intermediates during assembly and encapsulates the ssDNA genome to generate the unique capsid morphology. The virus capsid protects and transports the genome in the insect vector and plant host enroute to the plant nucleus for replication and the production of progeny. This review further explores CP:CP and CP:DNA interactions, and the environmental conditions that govern the assembly of the geminivirus capsid. This analysis was facilitated by new data available for the family, including three-dimensional structures and molecular biology data for several members. In addition, current and promising new control strategies of plant crop infection, which can lead to starvation for subsistence farmers, are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonette Bennett
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, Center for Structural Biology, McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Mavis Agbandje-McKenna
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, Center for Structural Biology, McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States.
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33
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Wang D, Tai PWL, Gao G. Adeno-associated virus vector as a platform for gene therapy delivery. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2019; 18:358-378. [PMID: 30710128 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-019-0012-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1222] [Impact Index Per Article: 244.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors are the leading platform for gene delivery for the treatment of a variety of human diseases. Recent advances in developing clinically desirable AAV capsids, optimizing genome designs and harnessing revolutionary biotechnologies have contributed substantially to the growth of the gene therapy field. Preclinical and clinical successes in AAV-mediated gene replacement, gene silencing and gene editing have helped AAV gain popularity as the ideal therapeutic vector, with two AAV-based therapeutics gaining regulatory approval in Europe or the United States. Continued study of AAV biology and increased understanding of the associated therapeutic challenges and limitations will build the foundation for future clinical success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Wang
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA.,Li Weibo Institute for Rare Diseases Research, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA.,Department of Microbiology and Physiological Systems, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Phillip W L Tai
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA.,Li Weibo Institute for Rare Diseases Research, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA.,Department of Microbiology and Physiological Systems, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Guangping Gao
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA. .,Li Weibo Institute for Rare Diseases Research, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA. .,Department of Microbiology and Physiological Systems, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA.
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34
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Wang C, Mulagapati SHR, Chen Z, Du J, Zhao X, Xi G, Chen L, Linke T, Gao C, Schmelzer AE, Liu D. Developing an Anion Exchange Chromatography Assay for Determining Empty and Full Capsid Contents in AAV6.2. MOLECULAR THERAPY-METHODS & CLINICAL DEVELOPMENT 2019; 15:257-263. [PMID: 31720304 PMCID: PMC6838793 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2019.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2019] [Accepted: 09/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors are clinically proven gene delivery vehicles that are attracting an increasing amount of attention. Non-genome-containing empty AAV capsids are by-products during AAV production that have been reported to potentially impact AAV product safety and efficacy. Therefore, the presence and amount of empty AAV capsids need to be characterized during process development. Multiple methods have been reported to characterize empty AAV capsid levels, including transmission electron microscopy (TEM), analytical ultracentrifugation (AUC), charge detection mass spectrometry (CDMS), UV spectrophotometry, and measuring capsid and genome copies by ELISA and qPCR. However, these methods may lack adequate accuracy and precision or be challenging to transfer to a quality control (QC) lab due to the difficulty of implementation. In this study, we used AAV serotype 6.2 (AAV6.2) as an example to show the development of a QC-friendly anion exchange chromatography (AEX) assay for the determination of empty and full capsid percentages. The reported assay requires several microliters of material with a minimum titer of 5 × 1011 vg/mL, and it can detect the presence of as low as 2.9% empty capsids in AAV6.2 samples. Additionally, the method is easy to deploy, can be automated, and has been successfully implemented to support testing of various in-process and release samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunlei Wang
- Analytical Sciences, Biopharmaceutical Development, BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, One MedImmune Way, Gaithersburg, MD 20878, USA
- Corresponding author: Chunlei Wang, PhD, Analytical Sciences, Biopharmaceutical Development, BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, One MedImmune Way, Gaithersburg, MD 20878, USA.
| | - Sri Hari Raju Mulagapati
- Analytical Sciences, Biopharmaceutical Development, BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, One MedImmune Way, Gaithersburg, MD 20878, USA
| | - Zhongying Chen
- Analytical Sciences, Biopharmaceutical Development, BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, One MedImmune Way, Gaithersburg, MD 20878, USA
| | - Jing Du
- Analytical Sciences, Biopharmaceutical Development, BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, One MedImmune Way, Gaithersburg, MD 20878, USA
| | - Xiaohui Zhao
- Analytical Sciences, Biopharmaceutical Development, BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, One MedImmune Way, Gaithersburg, MD 20878, USA
| | - Guoling Xi
- Purification Process Sciences, Biopharmaceutical Development, BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, One MedImmune Way, Gaithersburg, MD 20878, USA
| | - Liyan Chen
- Purification Process Sciences, Biopharmaceutical Development, BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, One MedImmune Way, Gaithersburg, MD 20878, USA
| | - Thomas Linke
- Purification Process Sciences, Biopharmaceutical Development, BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, One MedImmune Way, Gaithersburg, MD 20878, USA
| | - Cuihua Gao
- Antibody Discovery and Protein Engineering, R&D, AstraZeneca, One MedImmune Way, Gaithersburg, MD 20878, USA
| | - Albert E. Schmelzer
- Cell Culture and Fermentation Sciences, Biopharmaceutical Development, BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, One MedImmune Way, Gaithersburg, MD 20878, USA
| | - Dengfeng Liu
- Analytical Sciences, Biopharmaceutical Development, BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, One MedImmune Way, Gaithersburg, MD 20878, USA
- Corresponding author: Dengfeng Liu, PhD, Analytical Sciences, Biopharmaceutical Development, BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, One MedImmune Way, Gaithersburg, MD 20878, USA.
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35
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Paganini C, Capasso Palmiero U, Pocsfalvi G, Touzet N, Bongiovanni A, Arosio P. Scalable Production and Isolation of Extracellular Vesicles: Available Sources and Lessons from Current Industrial Bioprocesses. Biotechnol J 2019; 14:e1800528. [PMID: 31140717 DOI: 10.1002/biot.201800528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2019] [Revised: 05/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Potential applications of extracellular vesicles (EVs) are attracting increasing interest in the fields of medicine, cosmetics, and nutrition. However, the manufacturing of EVs is currently characterized by low yields. This limitation severely hampers progress in research at the laboratory and clinical scales, as well as the realization of successful and cost-effective EV-based products. Moreover, the high level of heterogeneity of EVs further complicates reproducible manufacturing on a large scale. In this review, possible directions toward the scalable production of EVs are discussed. In particular, two strategies are considered: i) the optimization of upstream unit operations and ii) the exploitation of well-established and mature technologies already in use in other industrial bioprocesses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Paganini
- Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, ETH Zurich, Vladimir Prelog Weg 1, 8093, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Umberto Capasso Palmiero
- Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, ETH Zurich, Vladimir Prelog Weg 1, 8093, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Gabriella Pocsfalvi
- Institute of Biosciences and Bioresources, National Research Council of Italy, Naples, 80131, Italy
| | - Nicolas Touzet
- Centre for Environmental Research Innovation and Sustainability, Institute of Technology Sligo, Sligo, F91 YW50, Ireland
| | - Antonella Bongiovanni
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council of Italy, Palermo, 90146, Italy
| | - Paolo Arosio
- Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, ETH Zurich, Vladimir Prelog Weg 1, 8093, Zurich, Switzerland
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36
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Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV) is an increasingly popular tool in the research laboratory, and use of this viral vector clinically is occurring at an accelerated pace. Nevertheless, despite its popularity, AAV is a relatively cumbersome virus to produce; however, significant efforts have been invested to develop, optimize, and simplify methodology that allows the generation of high-quality AAV with significantly increased production yields. Here we describe multiple modalities for production and purification of AAV particles produced in HEK293 cell cultures using an iodixanol density gradient. We include two methods adapted for harvesting virus from the culture media: tangential flow filtration (TFF) and polyethylene glycol precipitation (PEGylation). Moreover, we also describe the protocol for anion exchange chromatography, which can be used after the iodixanol gradient as an additional purification step. Last, we provide various protocols for determining virus titer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivette M Sandoval
- Department of Translational Science & Molecular Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, USA. .,Mercy Health Saint Mary's, Grand Rapids, MI, USA.
| | - Nathan M Kuhn
- Department of Translational Science & Molecular Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
| | - Fredric P Manfredsson
- Department of Translational Science & Molecular Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, USA.,Mercy Health Saint Mary's, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
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37
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Potter RA, Griffin DA, Sondergaard PC, Johnson RW, Pozsgai ER, Heller KN, Peterson EL, Lehtimäki KK, Windish HP, Mittal PJ, Albrecht DE, Mendell JR, Rodino-Klapac LR. Systemic Delivery of Dysferlin Overlap Vectors Provides Long-Term Gene Expression and Functional Improvement for Dysferlinopathy. Hum Gene Ther 2018; 29:749-762. [PMID: 28707952 PMCID: PMC6066196 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2017.062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2017] [Accepted: 07/12/2017] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Dysferlinopathies comprise a family of disorders caused by mutations in the dysferlin (DYSF) gene, leading to a progressive dystrophy characterized by chronic muscle fiber loss, fat replacement, and fibrosis. To correct the underlying histopathology and function, expression of full-length DYSF is required. Dual adeno-associated virus vectors have been developed, defined by a region of homology, to serve as a substrate for reconstitution of the full 6.5 kb dysferlin cDNA. Previous work studied the efficacy of this treatment through intramuscular and regional delivery routes. To maximize clinical efficacy, dysferlin-deficient mice were treated systemically to target all muscles through the vasculature for efficacy and safety studies. Mice were evaluated at multiple time points between 4 and 13 months post treatment for dysferlin expression and functional improvement using magnetic resonance imaging and magnetic resonance spectroscopy and membrane repair. A systemic dose of 6 × 1012 vector genomes resulted in widespread gene expression in the muscles. Treated muscles showed a significant decrease in central nucleation, collagen deposition, and improvement of membrane repair to wild-type levels. Treated gluteus muscles were significantly improved compared to placebo-treated muscles and were equivalent to wild type in volume, intra- and extramyocellular lipid accumulation, and fat percentage using magnetic resonance imaging and magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Dual-vector treatment allows for production of full-length functional dysferlin with no toxicity. This confirms previous safety data and validates translation of systemic gene delivery for dysferlinopathy patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachael A. Potter
- Center for Gene Therapy, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Danielle A. Griffin
- Center for Gene Therapy, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Patricia C. Sondergaard
- Center for Gene Therapy, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Ryan W. Johnson
- Center for Gene Therapy, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Eric R. Pozsgai
- Center for Gene Therapy, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
- Integrated Biomedical Science Graduate Program, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio; The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Kristin N. Heller
- Center for Gene Therapy, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Ellyn L. Peterson
- Center for Gene Therapy, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
| | | | | | | | | | - Jerry R. Mendell
- Center for Gene Therapy, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
- Department of Pediatrics and Neurology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio; The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Louise R. Rodino-Klapac
- Center for Gene Therapy, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
- Department of Pediatrics and Neurology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio; The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
- Integrated Biomedical Science Graduate Program, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio; The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
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38
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Kaemmerer WF. How will the field of gene therapy survive its success? Bioeng Transl Med 2018; 3:166-177. [PMID: 30065971 PMCID: PMC6063870 DOI: 10.1002/btm2.10090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2018] [Revised: 04/16/2018] [Accepted: 04/17/2018] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
In August 2017, for the first time, a gene therapy was approved for market release in the United States. That approval was followed by two others before the end of the year. This article cites primary literature, review articles concerning particular biotechnologies, and press releases by the FDA and others in order to provide an overview of the current status of the field of gene therapy with respect to its translation into practice. Technical hurdles that have been overcome in the past decades are summarized, as are hurdles that need to be the subject of continued research. Then, some social and practical challenges are identified that must be overcome if the field of gene therapy, having survived past failures, is to achieve not only technical and clinical but also market success. One of these, the need for an expanded capacity for the manufacturing of viral vectors to be able to meet the needs of additional gene therapies that will be coming soon, is a challenge that the talents of current and future bioengineers may help address.
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39
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Robert MA, Chahal PS, Audy A, Kamen A, Gilbert R, Gaillet B. Manufacturing of recombinant adeno-associated viruses using mammalian expression platforms. Biotechnol J 2017; 12. [DOI: 10.1002/biot.201600193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2016] [Revised: 11/08/2016] [Accepted: 12/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Marc-André Robert
- Département de génie chimique; Université Laval; Québec QC Canada
- National Research Council Canada; Montréal QC Canada
| | | | - Alexandre Audy
- Département de génie chimique; Université Laval; Québec QC Canada
- National Research Council Canada; Montréal QC Canada
| | - Amine Kamen
- Department of Bioengineering; McGill University; Montréal QC Canada
| | | | - Bruno Gaillet
- Département de génie chimique; Université Laval; Québec QC Canada
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Kattenhorn LM, Tipper CH, Stoica L, Geraghty DS, Wright TL, Clark KR, Wadsworth SC. Adeno-Associated Virus Gene Therapy for Liver Disease. Hum Gene Ther 2016; 27:947-961. [PMID: 27897038 PMCID: PMC5177998 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2016.160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2016] [Accepted: 11/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The field of adeno-associated virus (AAV) gene therapy has progressed rapidly over the past decade, with the advent of novel capsid serotype and organ-specific promoters, and an increasing understanding of the immune response to AAV administration. In particular, liver-directed therapy has made remarkable strides, with a number of clinical trials currently planned and ongoing in hemophilia A and B, as well as other liver disorders. This review focuses on liver-directed AAV gene therapy, including historic context, current challenges, and future developments.
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