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Tang SN, Salazar-Puerta AI, Heimann MK, Kuchynsky K, Rincon-Benavides MA, Kordowski M, Gunsch G, Bodine L, Diop K, Gantt C, Khan S, Bratasz A, Kokiko-Cochran O, Fitzgerald J, Laudier DM, Hoyland JA, Walter BA, Higuita-Castro N, Purmessur D. Engineered extracellular vesicle-based gene therapy for the treatment of discogenic back pain. Biomaterials 2024; 308:122562. [PMID: 38583365 PMCID: PMC11164054 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2024.122562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Painful musculoskeletal disorders such as intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration associated with chronic low back pain (termed "Discogenic back pain", DBP), are a significant socio-economic burden worldwide and contribute to the growing opioid crisis. Yet there are very few if any successful interventions that can restore the tissue's structure and function while also addressing the symptomatic pain. Here we have developed a novel non-viral gene therapy, using engineered extracellular vesicles (eEVs) to deliver the developmental transcription factor FOXF1 to the degenerated IVD in an in vivo model. Injured IVDs treated with eEVs loaded with FOXF1 demonstrated robust sex-specific reductions in pain behaviors compared to control groups. Furthermore, significant restoration of IVD structure and function in animals treated with FOXF1 eEVs were observed, with significant increases in disc height, tissue hydration, proteoglycan content, and mechanical properties. This is the first study to successfully restore tissue function while modulating pain behaviors in an animal model of DBP using eEV-based non-viral delivery of transcription factor genes. Such a strategy can be readily translated to other painful musculoskeletal disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shirley N Tang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, USA
| | - Ana I Salazar-Puerta
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, USA
| | - Mary K Heimann
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, USA
| | - Kyle Kuchynsky
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, USA
| | | | - Mia Kordowski
- Biophysics Graduate Program, The Ohio State University, USA
| | - Gilian Gunsch
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, USA
| | - Lucy Bodine
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, USA
| | - Khady Diop
- Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, The Ohio State University, USA
| | - Connor Gantt
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, USA
| | - Safdar Khan
- Department of Orthopedics, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, USA
| | - Anna Bratasz
- Small Animal Imaging Center Shared Resources, Wexner Medical Center, USA
| | - Olga Kokiko-Cochran
- Department of Neuroscience, The Ohio State University, USA; Institute for Behavioral Medicine Research, Neurological Institute, The Ohio State University, USA
| | - Julie Fitzgerald
- Department of Neuroscience, The Ohio State University, USA; Institute for Behavioral Medicine Research, Neurological Institute, The Ohio State University, USA
| | - Damien M Laudier
- Leni and Peter W. May Department of Orthopaedics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, USA
| | - Judith A Hoyland
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK; NIHR Manchester Musculoskeletal Biomedical Research Centre, Manchester University, NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Benjamin A Walter
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, USA; Department of Orthopedics, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, USA
| | - Natalia Higuita-Castro
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, USA; Biophysics Graduate Program, The Ohio State University, USA; Department of Neurosurgery, The Ohio State University, USA; Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University, USA.
| | - Devina Purmessur
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, USA; Department of Orthopedics, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, USA.
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Singh D. Beyond the membrane: Exploring non-viral methods for mitochondrial gene delivery. Mitochondrion 2024; 78:101922. [PMID: 38897397 DOI: 10.1016/j.mito.2024.101922] [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: 04/10/2024] [Revised: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 06/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Mitochondrial disorders, stemming from mutations in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), present a significant therapeutic challenge due to their complex pathophysiology and broad spectrum of clinical manifestations. Traditional gene therapy approaches, primarily reliant on viral vectors, face obstacles such as potential immunogenicity, insertional mutagenesis, and the specificity of targeting mtDNA. This review delves into non-viral methods for mitochondrial gene delivery, emerging as a promising alternative to overcome these limitations. Focusing on lipid-based nanoparticles, polymer-based vectors, and mitochondrial-targeted peptides, the mechanisms of action, advantages, and current applications in treating mitochondrial diseases was well elucidated. Non-viral vectors offer several benefits, including reduced immunogenicity, enhanced safety profiles, and the flexibility to carry a wide range of genetic material. We examine case studies where these methods have been applied, highlighting their potential in correcting pathogenic mtDNA mutations and mitigating disease phenotypes. Despite their promise, challenges such as delivery efficiency, specificity, and long-term expression stability persist. The review underscores the need for ongoing research to refine these delivery systems carry a wide range of genetic material. We examine case studies where these methods settings. As we advance our understanding of mitochondrial biology and gene delivery technologies, non-viral methods hold the potential to revolutionize the treatment of mitochondrial disorders, offering hope for therapies that can precisely target and correct the underlying genetic defects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dilpreet Singh
- University Institute of Pharma Sciences, Chandigarh University, Gharuan, Mohali 140413, India; University Centre for Research and Development, Chandigarh University, Gharuan, Mohali 140413, India.
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3
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Enayati M, Liu W, Madry H, Neisiany RE, Cucchiarini M. Functionalized hydrogels as smart gene delivery systems to treat musculoskeletal disorders. Adv Colloid Interface Sci 2024; 331:103232. [PMID: 38889626 DOI: 10.1016/j.cis.2024.103232] [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: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
Despite critical advances in regenerative medicine, the generation of definitive, reliable treatments for musculoskeletal diseases remains challenging. Gene therapy based on the delivery of therapeutic genetic sequences has strong value to offer effective, durable options to decisively manage such disorders. Furthermore, scaffold-mediated gene therapy provides powerful alternatives to overcome hurdles associated with classical gene therapy, allowing for the spatiotemporal delivery of candidate genes to sites of injury. Among the many scaffolds for musculoskeletal research, hydrogels raised increasing attention in addition to other potent systems (solid, hybrid scaffolds) due to their versatility and competence as drug and cell carriers in tissue engineering and wound dressing. Attractive functionalities of hydrogels for musculoskeletal therapy include their injectability, stimuli-responsiveness, self-healing, and nanocomposition that may further allow to upgrade of them as "intelligently" efficient and mechanically strong platforms, rather than as just inert vehicles. Such functionalized hydrogels may also be tuned to successfully transfer therapeutic genes in a minimally invasive manner in order to protect their cargos and allow for their long-term effects. In light of such features, this review focuses on functionalized hydrogels and demonstrates their competence for the treatment of musculoskeletal disorders using gene therapy procedures, from gene therapy principles to hydrogel functionalization methods and applications of hydrogel-mediated gene therapy for musculoskeletal disorders, while remaining challenges are being discussed in the perspective of translation in patients. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Despite advances in regenerative medicine, the generation of definitive, reliable treatments for musculoskeletal diseases remains challenging. Gene therapy has strong value in offering effective, durable options to decisively manage such disorders. Scaffold-mediated gene therapy provides powerful alternatives to overcome hurdles associated with classical gene therapy. Among many scaffolds for musculoskeletal research, hydrogels raised increasing attention. Functionalities including injectability, stimuli-responsiveness, and self-healing, tune them as "intelligently" efficient and mechanically strong platforms, rather than as just inert vehicles. This review introduces functionalized hydrogels for musculoskeletal disorder treatment using gene therapy procedures, from gene therapy principles to functionalized hydrogels and applications of hydrogel-mediated gene therapy for musculoskeletal disorders, while remaining challenges are discussed from the perspective of translation in patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammadsaeid Enayati
- Center of Experimental Orthopaedics, Saarland University Medical Center, Kirrbergerstr. Bldg 37, 66421 Homburg, Saar, Germany
| | - Wei Liu
- Center of Experimental Orthopaedics, Saarland University Medical Center, Kirrbergerstr. Bldg 37, 66421 Homburg, Saar, Germany
| | - Henning Madry
- Center of Experimental Orthopaedics, Saarland University Medical Center, Kirrbergerstr. Bldg 37, 66421 Homburg, Saar, Germany
| | - Rasoul Esmaeely Neisiany
- Biotechnology Centre, Silesian University of Technology, Krzywoustego 8, 44-100 Gliwice, Poland; Department of Polymer Engineering, Hakim Sabzevari University, Sabzevar 9617976487, Iran
| | - Magali Cucchiarini
- Center of Experimental Orthopaedics, Saarland University Medical Center, Kirrbergerstr. Bldg 37, 66421 Homburg, Saar, Germany.
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Kolesnik VV, Nurtdinov RF, Oloruntimehin ES, Karabelsky AV, Malogolovkin AS. Optimization strategies and advances in the research and development of AAV-based gene therapy to deliver large transgenes. Clin Transl Med 2024; 14:e1607. [PMID: 38488469 PMCID: PMC10941601 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.1607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV)-based therapies are recognized as one of the most potent next-generation treatments for inherited and genetic diseases. However, several biological and technological aspects of AAV vectors remain a critical issue for their widespread clinical application. Among them, the limited capacity of the AAV genome significantly hinders the development of AAV-based gene therapy. In this context, genetically modified transgenes compatible with AAV are opening up new opportunities for unlimited gene therapies for many genetic disorders. Recent advances in de novo protein design and remodelling are paving the way for new, more efficient and targeted gene therapeutics. Using computational and genetic tools, AAV expression cassette and transgenic DNA can be split, miniaturized, shuffled or created from scratch to mediate efficient gene transfer into targeted cells. In this review, we highlight recent advances in AAV-based gene therapy with a focus on its use in translational research. We summarize recent research and development in gene therapy, with an emphasis on large transgenes (>4.8 kb) and optimizing strategies applied by biomedical companies in the research pipeline. We critically discuss the prospects for AAV-based treatment and some emerging challenges. We anticipate that the continued development of novel computational tools will lead to rapid advances in basic gene therapy research and translational studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria V. Kolesnik
- Martsinovsky Institute of Medical ParasitologyTropical and Vector‐Borne Diseases, Sechenov UniversityMoscowRussia
| | - Ruslan F. Nurtdinov
- Martsinovsky Institute of Medical ParasitologyTropical and Vector‐Borne Diseases, Sechenov UniversityMoscowRussia
| | - Ezekiel Sola Oloruntimehin
- Martsinovsky Institute of Medical ParasitologyTropical and Vector‐Borne Diseases, Sechenov UniversityMoscowRussia
| | | | - Alexander S. Malogolovkin
- Martsinovsky Institute of Medical ParasitologyTropical and Vector‐Borne Diseases, Sechenov UniversityMoscowRussia
- Center for Translational MedicineSirius University of Science and TechnologySochiRussia
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5
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Kawai MY, Yoshida T, Kato T, Watanabe T, Kashiwagi M, Yamanaka S, Yamamoto H, Nagahiro S, Iwamoto T, Masud K, Aoki K, Ohura K, Nakao K. bmp-2 Gene-Transferred Skeletal Muscles with Needle-Type Electrodes as Efficient and Reliable Biomaterials for Bone Regeneration. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 17:880. [PMID: 38399131 PMCID: PMC10890310 DOI: 10.3390/ma17040880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bone morphogenetic protein-2 (bmp-2) has a high potential to induce bone tissue formation in skeletal muscles. We developed a bone induction system in skeletal muscles using the bmp-2 gene through in vivo electroporation. Natural bone tissues with skeletal muscles can be considered potential candidates for biomaterials. However, our previous system using plate-type electrodes did not achieve a 100% success rate in inducing bone tissues in skeletal muscles. In this study, we aimed to enhance the efficiency of bone tissue formation in skeletal muscles by using a non-viral bmp-2 gene expression plasmid vector (pCAGGS-bmp-2) and needle-type electrodes. METHODS We injected the bmp-2 gene with pCAGGS-bmp-2 into the skeletal muscles of rats' legs and immediately placed needle-type electrodes there. Skeletal tissues were then observed on the 21st day after gene transfer using soft X-ray and histological analyses. RESULTS The use of needle-type electrodes resulted in a 100% success rate in inducing bone tissues in skeletal muscles. In contrast, the plate-type electrodes only exhibited a 33% success rate. Thus, needle-type electrodes can be more efficient and reliable for transferring the bmp-2 gene to skeletal muscles, making them potential biomaterials for repairing bone defects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariko Yamamoto Kawai
- Department of Welfare, Kansai Women’s College, Osaka 582-0026, Japan
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan; (T.Y.); (T.K.); (T.W.); (M.K.); (S.Y.); (H.Y.); (K.N.)
| | - Takeshi Yoshida
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan; (T.Y.); (T.K.); (T.W.); (M.K.); (S.Y.); (H.Y.); (K.N.)
| | - Tomoki Kato
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan; (T.Y.); (T.K.); (T.W.); (M.K.); (S.Y.); (H.Y.); (K.N.)
| | - Takuma Watanabe
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan; (T.Y.); (T.K.); (T.W.); (M.K.); (S.Y.); (H.Y.); (K.N.)
| | - Marina Kashiwagi
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan; (T.Y.); (T.K.); (T.W.); (M.K.); (S.Y.); (H.Y.); (K.N.)
| | - Shigeki Yamanaka
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan; (T.Y.); (T.K.); (T.W.); (M.K.); (S.Y.); (H.Y.); (K.N.)
| | - Hiromitsu Yamamoto
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan; (T.Y.); (T.K.); (T.W.); (M.K.); (S.Y.); (H.Y.); (K.N.)
| | - Shigeki Nagahiro
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry/Special Needs Dentistry, Division of Oral Health Sciences, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo 113-8549, Japan; (S.N.); (T.I.)
| | - Tsutomu Iwamoto
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry/Special Needs Dentistry, Division of Oral Health Sciences, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo 113-8549, Japan; (S.N.); (T.I.)
| | - Khan Masud
- Department of Basic Oral Health Engineering, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo 113-8549, Japan; (K.M.); (K.A.)
| | - Kazuhiro Aoki
- Department of Basic Oral Health Engineering, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo 113-8549, Japan; (K.M.); (K.A.)
| | - Kiyoshi Ohura
- Department of Nursing, Taisei Gakuin University, Osaka 587-8555, Japan;
- Graduate School, Division of Dental Research, Osaka Dental University, Osaka 573-1121, Japan
| | - Kazumasa Nakao
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan; (T.Y.); (T.K.); (T.W.); (M.K.); (S.Y.); (H.Y.); (K.N.)
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Epicoco L, Pellegrino R, Madaghiele M, Friuli M, Giannotti L, Di Chiara Stanca B, Palermo A, Siculella L, Savkovic V, Demitri C, Nitti P. Recent Advances in Functionalized Electrospun Membranes for Periodontal Regeneration. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2725. [PMID: 38140066 PMCID: PMC10747510 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15122725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 11/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Periodontitis is a global, multifaceted, chronic inflammatory disease caused by bacterial microorganisms and an exaggerated host immune response that not only leads to the destruction of the periodontal apparatus but may also aggravate or promote the development of other systemic diseases. The periodontium is composed of four different tissues (alveolar bone, cementum, gingiva, and periodontal ligament) and various non-surgical and surgical therapies have been used to restore its normal function. However, due to the etiology of the disease and the heterogeneous nature of the periodontium components, complete regeneration is still a challenge. In this context, guided tissue/bone regeneration strategies in the field of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine have gained more and more interest, having as a goal the complete restoration of the periodontium and its functions. In particular, the use of electrospun nanofibrous scaffolds has emerged as an effective strategy to achieve this goal due to their ability to mimic the extracellular matrix and simultaneously exert antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and regenerative activities. This review provides an overview of periodontal regeneration using electrospun membranes, highlighting the use of these nanofibrous scaffolds as delivery systems for bioactive molecules and drugs and their functionalization to promote periodontal regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luana Epicoco
- Department of Engineering for Innovation, University of Salento, 73100 Lecce, Italy; (R.P.); (M.M.); (M.F.); (C.D.)
- Institute of Medical Physics and Biophysics, University of Leipzig, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Rebecca Pellegrino
- Department of Engineering for Innovation, University of Salento, 73100 Lecce, Italy; (R.P.); (M.M.); (M.F.); (C.D.)
| | - Marta Madaghiele
- Department of Engineering for Innovation, University of Salento, 73100 Lecce, Italy; (R.P.); (M.M.); (M.F.); (C.D.)
| | - Marco Friuli
- Department of Engineering for Innovation, University of Salento, 73100 Lecce, Italy; (R.P.); (M.M.); (M.F.); (C.D.)
| | - Laura Giannotti
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Technologies, University of Salento, 73100 Lecce, Italy; (L.G.); (B.D.C.S.); (L.S.)
| | - Benedetta Di Chiara Stanca
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Technologies, University of Salento, 73100 Lecce, Italy; (L.G.); (B.D.C.S.); (L.S.)
| | - Andrea Palermo
- Implant Dentistry College of Medicine and Dentistry, Birmingham B4 6BN, UK;
| | - Luisa Siculella
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Technologies, University of Salento, 73100 Lecce, Italy; (L.G.); (B.D.C.S.); (L.S.)
| | - Vuk Savkovic
- Clinic and Polyclinic for Oral and Maxillofacial Plastic Surgery, University Hospital Leipzig, 04103 Leipzig, Germany;
| | - Christian Demitri
- Department of Engineering for Innovation, University of Salento, 73100 Lecce, Italy; (R.P.); (M.M.); (M.F.); (C.D.)
| | - Paola Nitti
- Department of Engineering for Innovation, University of Salento, 73100 Lecce, Italy; (R.P.); (M.M.); (M.F.); (C.D.)
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Chen H, Li Z, Li X, Lu J, Chen B, Wang Q, Wu G. Biomaterial-Based Gene Delivery: Advanced Tools for Enhanced Cartilage Regeneration. Drug Des Devel Ther 2023; 17:3605-3624. [PMID: 38076630 PMCID: PMC10706074 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s432056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Gene therapy has emerged as a promising and innovative approach in cartilage regeneration. Integrating biomaterials into gene therapy offers a unique opportunity to enhance gene delivery efficiency, optimize gene expression dynamics, modulate immune responses, and promote tissue regeneration. Despite the rapid progress in biomaterial-based gene delivery, there remains a deficiency of comprehensive discussions on recent advances and their specific application in cartilage regeneration. Therefore, this review aims to provide a thorough overview of various categories of biomaterials employed in gene delivery, including both viral and non-viral vectors, with discussing their distinct advantages and limitations. Furthermore, the diverse strategies employed in gene therapy are discussed and summarized, such as the utilization of growth factors, anti-inflammatory cytokines, and chondrogenic genes. Additionally, we highlights the significant challenges that hinder biomaterial-based gene delivery in cartilage regeneration, including immune response modulation, gene delivery efficiency, and the sustainability of long-term gene expression. By elucidating the functional properties of biomaterials-based gene therapy and their pivotal roles in cartilage regeneration, this review aims to enhance further advances in the design of sophisticated gene delivery systems for improved cartilage regeneration outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongfeng Chen
- Department of Foot and Ankle Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Luohe Medical College, Luohe, Henan, 462300, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhen Li
- Department of Foot and Ankle Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Luohe Medical College, Luohe, Henan, 462300, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaoqi Li
- Department of Foot and Ankle Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Luohe Medical College, Luohe, Henan, 462300, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jiongjiong Lu
- Department of Foot and Ankle Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Luohe Medical College, Luohe, Henan, 462300, People’s Republic of China
| | - Beibei Chen
- Department of Foot and Ankle Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Luohe Medical College, Luohe, Henan, 462300, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qiongchao Wang
- Department of Foot and Ankle Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Luohe Medical College, Luohe, Henan, 462300, People’s Republic of China
| | - Guangliang Wu
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Luohe Medical College, Luohe, Henan, 462300, People’s Republic of China
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He S, Fu X, Wang L, Xue Y, Zhou L, Qiao S, An J, Xia T. Self-Assemble Silk Fibroin Microcapsules for Cartilage Regeneration through Gene Delivery and Immune Regulation. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2023; 19:e2302799. [PMID: 37264755 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202302799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Effective treatments for cartilage defects are currently lacking. Gene delivery using proper delivery systems has shown great potential in cartilage regeneration. However, the inflammatory microenvironment generated by the defected cartilage severely affects the system's delivery efficiency. Therefore, this study reports a silk fibroin microcapsule (SFM) structure based on layer-by-layer self-assembly, in which interleukin-4 (IL-4) is modified on silk by click chemistry and loaded with lysyl oxidase plasmid DNA (LOX pDNA). The silk microcapsules display good biocompatibility and the release rate of genes can be adjusted by controlling the number of self-assembled layers. Moreover, the functionalized SFMs mixed with methacrylated gelatin (GelMA) exhibit good injectability. The IL-4 on the outer layer of the SFM can regulate macrophages to polarize toward the M2 type, thereby promoting cartilage matrix repair and inhibiting inflammation. The LOX pDNA loaded inside can be effectively delivered into cells to promote extracellular matrix generation, significantly promoting cartilage regeneration. The results of this study provide a promising biomaterial for cartilage repair, and this novel silk-based microcapsule delivery system can also provide strategies for the treatment of other diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuangjian He
- Department of orthopedics, Suzhou Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Suzhou, 215000, China
| | - Xuejie Fu
- Institute of Clinical Medicine Research, Suzhou Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Suzhou, 215000, China
| | - Liang Wang
- Department of orthopedics, Suzhou Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Suzhou, 215000, China
| | - Yangyang Xue
- Department of orthopedics, Suzhou Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Suzhou, 215000, China
| | - Long Zhou
- Department of orthopedics, Suzhou Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Suzhou, 215000, China
| | - Shigang Qiao
- Institute of Clinical Medicine Research, Suzhou Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Suzhou, 215000, China
| | - Jianzhong An
- Institute of Clinical Medicine Research, Suzhou Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Suzhou, 215000, China
| | - Tingting Xia
- Institute of Clinical Medicine Research, Suzhou Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Suzhou, 215000, China
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9
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Tang S, Gantt C, Salazar Puerta A, Bodine L, Khan S, Higuita‐Castro N, Purmessur D. Nonviral overexpression of Scleraxis or Mohawk drives reprogramming of degenerate human annulus fibrosus cells from a diseased to a healthy phenotype. JOR Spine 2023; 6:e1270. [PMID: 37780832 PMCID: PMC10540831 DOI: 10.1002/jsp2.1270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration is a major contributor to low back pain (LBP), yet there are no clinical therapies targeting the underlying pathology. The annulus fibrosus (AF) plays a critical role in maintaining IVD structure/function and undergoes degenerative changes such as matrix catabolism and inflammation. Thus, therapies targeting the AF are crucial to fully restore IVD function. Previously, we have shown nonviral delivery of transcription factors to push diseased nucleus pulposus cells to a healthy phenotype. As a next step in a proof-of-concept study, we report the use of Scleraxis (SCX) and Mohawk (MKX), which are critical for the development, maintenance, and regeneration of the AF and may have therapeutic potential to induce a healthy, pro-anabolic phenotype in diseased AF cells. Methods MKX and SCX plasmids were delivered via electroporation into diseased human AF cells from autopsy specimens and patients undergoing surgery for LBP. Transfected cells were cultured over 14 days and assessed for cell morphology, viability, density, gene expression of key phenotypic, inflammatory, matrix, pain markers, and collagen accumulation. Results AF cells demonstrated a fibroblastic phenotype posttreatment. Moreover, transfection of SCX and MKX resulted in significant upregulation of the respective genes, as well as SOX9. Transfected autopsy cells demonstrated upregulation of core extracellular matrix markers; however, this was observed to a lesser effect in surgical cells. Matrix-degrading enzymes and inflammatory cytokines were downregulated, suggesting a push toward a pro-anabolic, anti-inflammatory phenotype. Similarly, pain markers were downregulated over time in autopsy cells. At the protein level, collagen content was increased in both MKX and SCX transfected cells compared to controls. Conclusions This exploratory study demonstrates the potential of MKX or SCX to drive reprogramming in mild to moderately degenerate AF cells from autopsy and severely degenerate AF cells from surgical patients toward a healthy phenotype and may be a potential nonviral gene therapy for LBP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shirley Tang
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringThe Ohio State UniversityColumbusOhioUSA
| | - Connor Gantt
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringThe Ohio State UniversityColumbusOhioUSA
| | - Ana Salazar Puerta
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringThe Ohio State UniversityColumbusOhioUSA
| | - Lucy Bodine
- Department of Mechanical EngineeringThe Ohio State UniversityColumbusOhioUSA
| | - Safdar Khan
- Department of OrthopedicsThe Ohio State University Wexner Medical CenterColumbusOhioUSA
| | | | - Devina Purmessur
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringThe Ohio State UniversityColumbusOhioUSA
- Department of OrthopedicsThe Ohio State University Wexner Medical CenterColumbusOhioUSA
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Salazar-Puerta AI, Rincon-Benavides MA, Cuellar-Gaviria TZ, Aldana J, Martinez GV, Ortega-Pineda L, Das D, Dodd D, Spencer CA, Deng B, McComb DW, Englert JA, Ghadiali S, Zepeda-Orozco D, Wold LE, Gallego-Perez D, Higuita-Castro N. Engineered Extracellular Vesicles Derived from Dermal Fibroblasts Attenuate Inflammation in a Murine Model of Acute Lung Injury. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2210579. [PMID: 37119468 PMCID: PMC10573710 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202210579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) represents a significant burden to the healthcare system, with ≈200 000 cases diagnosed annually in the USA. ARDS patients suffer from severe refractory hypoxemia, alveolar-capillary barrier dysfunction, impaired surfactant function, and abnormal upregulation of inflammatory pathways that lead to intensive care unit admission, prolonged hospitalization, and increased disability-adjusted life years. Currently, there is no cure or FDA-approved therapy for ARDS. This work describes the implementation of engineered extracellular vesicle (eEV)-based nanocarriers for targeted nonviral delivery of anti-inflammatory payloads to the inflamed/injured lung. The results show the ability of surfactant protein A (SPA)-functionalized IL-4- and IL-10-loaded eEVs to promote intrapulmonary retention and reduce inflammation, both in vitro and in vivo. Significant attenuation is observed in tissue damage, proinflammatory cytokine secretion, macrophage activation, influx of protein-rich fluid, and neutrophil infiltration into the alveolar space as early as 6 h post-eEVs treatment. Additionally, metabolomics analyses show that eEV treatment causes significant changes in the metabolic profile of inflamed lungs, driving the secretion of key anti-inflammatory metabolites. Altogether, these results establish the potential of eEVs derived from dermal fibroblasts to reduce inflammation, tissue damage, and the prevalence/progression of injury during ARDS via nonviral delivery of anti-inflammatory genes/transcripts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana I. Salazar-Puerta
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States
| | - María A. Rincon-Benavides
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States
- Biophysics Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States
| | | | - Julian Aldana
- Biochemistry Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States
| | - Gabriela Vasquez Martinez
- Kidney and Urinary Tract Research Center, The Abigail Wexner Research Institute, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, United States
| | - Lilibeth Ortega-Pineda
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States
| | - Devleena Das
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States
| | - Daniel Dodd
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States
- Biomedical Science Graduate Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States
| | - Charles A. Spencer
- Division of Cardiac Surgery, Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States
| | - Binbin Deng
- Center for Electron Microscopy and Analysis (CEMAS), The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States
| | - David W. McComb
- Center for Electron Microscopy and Analysis (CEMAS), The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States
| | - Joshua A. Englert
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States
| | - Samir Ghadiali
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States
| | - Diana Zepeda-Orozco
- Kidney and Urinary Tract Research Center, The Abigail Wexner Research Institute, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States
- Division of Pediatric Nephrology and Hypertension, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, United States
| | - Loren E. Wold
- Division of Cardiac Surgery, Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States
| | - Daniel Gallego-Perez
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States
- Biophysics Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States
- Division of General Surgery, Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States
| | - Natalia Higuita-Castro
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States
- Biophysics Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States
- Division of General Surgery, Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States
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11
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Karayianni M, Sentoukas T, Skandalis A, Pippa N, Pispas S. Chitosan-Based Nanoparticles for Nucleic Acid Delivery: Technological Aspects, Applications, and Future Perspectives. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:1849. [PMID: 37514036 PMCID: PMC10383118 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15071849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Chitosan is a naturally occurring polymer derived from the deacetylation of chitin, which is an abundant carbohydrate found mainly in the shells of various marine and terrestrial (micro)organisms. Chitosan has been extensively used to construct nanoparticles (NPs), which are biocompatible, biodegradable, non-toxic, easy to prepare, and can function as effective drug delivery systems. Moreover, chitosan NPs have been employed in gene and vaccine delivery, as well as advanced cancer therapy, and they can also serve as new therapeutic tools against viral infections. In this review, we summarize the most recent developments in the field of chitosan-based NPs intended as nucleic acid delivery vehicles and gene therapy vectors. Special attention is given to the technological aspects of chitosan complexes for nucleic acid delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Karayianni
- Theoretical and Physical Chemistry Institute, National Hellenic Research Foundation, 48 Vassileos Constantinou Ave., 11635 Athens, Greece
| | - Theodore Sentoukas
- Centre of Polymer and Carbon Materials, Polish Academy of Sciences, 34, M. Curie-Sklodowska St., 41-819 Zabrze, Poland
| | - Athanasios Skandalis
- Theoretical and Physical Chemistry Institute, National Hellenic Research Foundation, 48 Vassileos Constantinou Ave., 11635 Athens, Greece
| | - Natassa Pippa
- Section of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Panepistimioupolis Zografou, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 15771 Athens, Greece
| | - Stergios Pispas
- Theoretical and Physical Chemistry Institute, National Hellenic Research Foundation, 48 Vassileos Constantinou Ave., 11635 Athens, Greece
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12
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Li J, Zeng H, Li L, Song M, Dong M. Biomembrane-wrapped gene delivery nanoparticles for cancer therapy. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1211753. [PMID: 37351470 PMCID: PMC10282192 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1211753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023] Open
Abstract
As a promising strategy, gene delivery for cancer treatment accepts encouraging progress due to its high efficacy, low toxicity, and exclusive selectivity. However, the delivery efficiency, specific biological distribution, targeted uptake, and biosafety of naked nucleic acid agents still face serious challenges, which limit further clinical application. To overcome the above bottleneck, safe and efficient functional nanovectors are developed to improve the delivery efficiency of nucleic acid agents. In recent years, emerging membrane-wrapped biomimetic nanoparticles (MBNPs) based on the concept of "imitating nature" are well known for their advantages, such as low immunogenicity and long cycle time, and especially play a crucial role in improving the overall efficiency of gene delivery and reducing adverse reactions. Therefore, combining MBNPs and gene delivery is an effective strategy to enhance tumor treatment efficiency. This review presents the mechanism of gene therapy and the current obstacles to gene delivery. Remarkably, the latest development of gene delivery MBNPs and the strategies to overcome these obstacles are summarized. Finally, the future challenges and prospects of gene delivery MBNPs toward clinical transformation are introduced. The principal purpose of this review is to discuss the biomedical potential of gene delivery MBNPs for cancer therapy and to provide guidance for further enhancing the efficiency of tumor gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Li
- Department of Geriatrics, Chengdu Fifth People’s Hospital, Geriatric Diseases Institute of Chengdu, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Center for Medicine Research and Translation, Chengdu Fifth People’s Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Huamin Zeng
- Chengdu Ping An Healthcare Medical Examination Laboratory, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Luwei Li
- College of Clinical Medical, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Ming Song
- Department of Pathophysiology, Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Mingqing Dong
- Department of Geriatrics, Chengdu Fifth People’s Hospital, Geriatric Diseases Institute of Chengdu, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Center for Medicine Research and Translation, Chengdu Fifth People’s Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
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13
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Li X, Shen L, Deng Z, Huang Z. New treatment for osteoarthr: pbad014itis: Gene therapy. PRECISION CLINICAL MEDICINE 2023; 6:pbad014. [PMID: 37333626 PMCID: PMC10273835 DOI: 10.1093/pcmedi/pbad014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Osteoarthritis is a complex degenerative disease that affects the entire joint tissue. Currently, non-surgical treatments for osteoarthritis focus on relieving pain. While end-stage osteoarthritis can be treated with arthroplasty, the health and financial costs associated with surgery have forced the search for alternative non-surgical treatments to delay the progression of osteoarthritis and promote cartilage repair. Unlike traditional treatment, the gene therapy approach allows for long-lasting expression of therapeutic proteins at specific sites. In this review, we summarize the history of gene therapy in osteoarthritis, outlining the common expression vectors (non-viral, viral), the genes delivered (transcription factors, growth factors, inflammation-associated cytokines, non-coding RNAs) and the mode of gene delivery (direct delivery, indirect delivery). We highlight the application and development prospects of the gene editing technology CRISPR/Cas9 in osteoarthritis. Finally, we identify the current problems and possible solutions in the clinical translation of gene therapy for osteoarthritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyu Li
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, West China Hospital, West China Medical School, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Leyao Shen
- School of Dentistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1078, USA
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Uebelhoer M, Lambert C, Grisart J, Guse K, Plutizki S, Henrotin Y. Interleukins, growth factors, and transcription factors are key targets for gene therapy in osteoarthritis: A scoping review. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1148623. [PMID: 37077668 PMCID: PMC10106745 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1148623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
ObjectiveOsteoarthritis (OA) is the most common degenerative joint disease, characterized by a progressive loss of cartilage associated with synovitis and subchondral bone remodeling. There is however no treatment to cure or delay the progression of OA. The objective of this manuscript was to provide a scoping review of the preclinical and clinical studies reporting the effect of gene therapies for OA.MethodThis review followed the JBI methodology and was reported in accordance with the PRISMA-ScR checklist. All research studies that explore in vitro, in vivo, or ex vivo gene therapies that follow a viral or non-viral gene therapy approach were considered. Only studies published in English were included in this review. There were no limitations to their date of publication, country of origin, or setting. Relevant publications were searched in Medline ALL (Ovid), Embase (Elsevier), and Scopus (Elsevier) in March 2023. Study selection and data charting were performed by two independent reviewers.ResultsWe found a total of 29 different targets for OA gene therapy, including studies examining interleukins, growth factors and receptors, transcription factors and other key targets. Most articles were on preclinical in vitro studies (32 articles) or in vivo animal models (39 articles), while four articles were on clinical trials related to the development of TissueGene-C (TG-C).ConclusionIn the absence of any DMOAD, gene therapy could be a highly promising treatment for OA, even though further development is required to bring more targets to the clinical stage.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Cécile Lambert
- musculoSKeletal Innovative Research Lab (mSKIL), Center for Interdisciplinary Research on Medicines, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | | | - Kilian Guse
- GeneQuine Biotherapeutics GmbH, Hamburg, Germany
| | | | - Yves Henrotin
- Artialis S.A., Liège, Belgium
- musculoSKeletal Innovative Research Lab (mSKIL), Center for Interdisciplinary Research on Medicines, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
- Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation, Princess Paola Hospital, Vivalia, Marche-en-Famenne, Belgium
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15
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Chitosan/silk fibroin composite bilayer PCL nanofibrous mats for bone regeneration with enhanced antibacterial properties and improved osteogenic potential. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 230:123265. [PMID: 36646346 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.123265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 12/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
In regenerative medicine and bone tissue engineering, various composite materials are enormously popular, but the final tissue restoration outcome is not always satisfactory. In this study, bilayer-deposited multifunctional nanofiber mats were successfully fabricated with an osteogenic side of silk fibroin/poly (ε-caprolactone) (referred to as SF/PCL) and an antibacterial side of poly (ε-caprolactone)/chitosan (referred to as PCL/CS). The PCL/CS-SF/PCL (referred to as PCSP) mats exhibited biocompatible properties, sufficient hydrophilicity and mechanical properties, as well as a higher breaking strength (3.6 MPa) than the monolayer of SF/PCL mats (1.5 MPa). The antibacterial side of PCSP mats (A-layer) demonstrated ideal antibacterial potency because the survival rate of Escherichia coli (E. coli) (approximately 25 %) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) (approximately 15 %) were both significantly lower. Subsequently, the plasmid encoding runt related transcription factor 2 (Runx2) was complexed with the osteogenic side of PCSP mats (O-layer) through polyethyleneimine (PEI), thereby enhancing both osteogenesis-related gene expression and the formation of mineralized nodules. Similarly, the implantation of PCSP+Runx2 mats effectively promoted bone tissue generation in vivo. These results indicated the excellent prospects of applying PCSP mats to bone regeneration with gene delivery.
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Yang J, Luly KM, Green JJ. Nonviral nanoparticle gene delivery into the CNS for neurological disorders and brain cancer applications. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. NANOMEDICINE AND NANOBIOTECHNOLOGY 2023; 15:e1853. [PMID: 36193561 PMCID: PMC10023321 DOI: 10.1002/wnan.1853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Revised: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 03/15/2023]
Abstract
Nonviral nanoparticles have emerged as an attractive alternative to viral vectors for gene therapy applications, utilizing a range of lipid-based, polymeric, and inorganic materials. These materials can either encapsulate or be functionalized to bind nucleic acids and protect them from degradation. To effectively elicit changes to gene expression, the nanoparticle carrier needs to undergo a series of steps intracellularly, from interacting with the cellular membrane to facilitate cellular uptake to endosomal escape and nucleic acid release. Adjusting physiochemical properties of the nanoparticles, such as size, charge, and targeting ligands, can improve cellular uptake and ultimately gene delivery. Applications in the central nervous system (CNS; i.e., neurological diseases, brain cancers) face further extracellular barriers for a gene-carrying nanoparticle to surpass, with the most significant being the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Approaches to overcome these extracellular challenges to deliver nanoparticles into the CNS include systemic, intracerebroventricular, intrathecal, and intranasal administration. This review describes and compares different biomaterials for nonviral nanoparticle-mediated gene therapy to the CNS and explores challenges and recent preclinical and clinical developments in overcoming barriers to nanoparticle-mediated delivery to the brain. This article is categorized under: Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Nanomedicine for Neurological Disease Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Emerging Technologies Nanotechnology Approaches to Biology > Nanoscale Systems in Biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Yang
- Departments of Biomedical Engineering, Ophthalmology, Oncology, Neurosurgery, Materials Science & Engineering, and Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Kathryn M Luly
- Departments of Biomedical Engineering, Ophthalmology, Oncology, Neurosurgery, Materials Science & Engineering, and Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Jordan J Green
- Departments of Biomedical Engineering, Ophthalmology, Oncology, Neurosurgery, Materials Science & Engineering, and Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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CRISPR Gene Therapy: A Promising One-Time Therapeutic Approach for Transfusion-Dependent β-Thalassemia—CRISPR-Cas9 Gene Editing for β-Thalassemia. THALASSEMIA REPORTS 2023. [DOI: 10.3390/thalassrep13010006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
β-Thalassemia is an inherited hematological disorder that results from genetic changes in the β-globin gene, leading to the reduced or absent synthesis of β-globin. For several decades, the only curative treatment option for β-thalassemia has been allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (allo-HCT). Nonetheless, rapid progress in genome modification technologies holds great potential for treating this disease and will soon change the current standard of care for β-thalassemia. For instance, the emergence of the CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing platform has opened the door for precision gene editing and can serve as an effective molecular treatment for a multitude of genetic diseases. Investigational studies were carried out to treat β-thalassemia patients utilizing CRISPR-based CTX001 therapy targeting the fetal hemoglobin silencer BCL11A to restore γ-globin expression in place of deficient β-globin. The results of recently carried out clinical trials provide hope of CTX001 being a promising one-time therapeutic option to treat β-hemoglobinopathies. This review provides an insight into the key scientific steps that led to the development and application of novel CRISPR/Cas9–based gene therapies as a promising therapeutic platform for transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia (TDT). Despite the resulting ethical, moral, and social challenges, CRISPR provides an excellent treatment option against hemoglobin-associated genetic diseases.
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Azimifar MA, Hashemi M, Babaei N, Salmasi Z, Doosti A. Interleukin gene delivery for cancer gene therapy: In vitro and in vivo studies. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF BASIC MEDICAL SCIENCES 2023; 26:128-136. [PMID: 36742134 PMCID: PMC9869882 DOI: 10.22038/ijbms.2022.66890.14668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Cytokine-mediated cancer therapy has the potential to enhance immunotherapeutic approaches and cancer elimination plans through the endowing of the immune system by providing improved anticancer immunity. Despite the encouraging pioneer studies on interleukins (ILs), the influence of ILs-originated therapeutics is still restricted by a class of potent immunoregulatory cytokines, systemic dose-limiting toxicities, ILs pleiotropy, and administration issues. During previous years, the area of transferring genes encoding immunostimulatory ILs was fundamentally widened to overcome these challenges and expedite ILs-based tumor regression. Numerous viral and non-viral delivery systems are currently available to act as crucial elements of the gene therapy toolbox. Moreover, cell-based cancer therapies are recruiting MSCs in the role of versatile gene delivery platforms to design one of the promising therapeutic approaches. These formulated gene carrier systems can provide possible alternatives to diminish dose-limiting adverse effects, promote administration, and enhance the therapeutic activity of ILs-derived treatment modalities in cancer treatment. This review provides a discussion on the advances of ILs gene delivery systems while focusing on the developing platforms in preclinical cancer immunogene therapy studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Amin Azimifar
- Department of Cell Molecular Biology, Bushehr Branch, Islamic Azad University, Bushehr, Iran
| | - Maryam Hashemi
- Nanotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran, Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran,Corresponding author: Maryam Hashemi. Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.Tel: +98-51-37112471; Fax: +98-51-37112470;
| | - Nahid Babaei
- Department of Cell Molecular Biology, Bushehr Branch, Islamic Azad University, Bushehr, Iran
| | - Zahra Salmasi
- Nanotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Abbas Doosti
- Biotechnology Research Center, Shahrekord Branch, Islamic Azad University, Shahrekord, Iran
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Liu Z, Zhu J, Liu H, Fu C. Natural products can modulate inflammation in intervertebral disc degeneration. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1150835. [PMID: 36874009 PMCID: PMC9978229 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1150835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Intervertebral discs (IVDs) play a crucial role in maintaining normal vertebral anatomy as well as mobile function. Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is a common clinical symptom and is an important cause of low back pain (LBP). IDD is initially considered to be associated with aging and abnormal mechanical loads. However, over recent years, researchers have discovered that IDD is caused by a variety of mechanisms, including persistent inflammation, functional cell loss, accelerated extracellular matrix decomposition, the imbalance of functional components, and genetic metabolic disorders. Of these, inflammation is thought to interact with other mechanisms and is closely associated with the production of pain. Considering the key role of inflammation in IDD, the modulation of inflammation provides us with new options for mitigating the progression of degeneration and may even cause reversal. Many natural substances possess anti-inflammatory functions. Due to the wide availability of such substances, it is important that we screen and identify natural agents that are capable of regulating IVD inflammation. In fact, many studies have demonstrated the potential clinical application of natural substances for the regulation of inflammation in IDD; some of these have been proven to have excellent biosafety. In this review, we summarize the mechanisms and interactions that are responsible for inflammation in IDD and review the application of natural products for the modulation of degenerative disc inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zongtai Liu
- Department of Spine Surgery, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China.,Department of Orthopedics, Affiliated Hospital of Beihua University, Jilin, China
| | - Jiabo Zhu
- Department of Orthopedics, Affiliated Hospital of Beihua University, Jilin, China
| | - Haiyan Liu
- Department of Orthopedics, Baicheng Central Hospital, Baicheng, China
| | - Changfeng Fu
- Department of Spine Surgery, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
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Amini M, Venkatesan JK, Liu W, Leroux A, Nguyen TN, Madry H, Migonney V, Cucchiarini M. Advanced Gene Therapy Strategies for the Repair of ACL Injuries. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232214467. [PMID: 36430947 PMCID: PMC9695211 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232214467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), the principal ligament for stabilization of the knee, is highly predisposed to injury in the human population. As a result of its poor intrinsic healing capacities, surgical intervention is generally necessary to repair ACL lesions, yet the outcomes are never fully satisfactory in terms of long-lasting, complete, and safe repair. Gene therapy, based on the transfer of therapeutic genetic sequences via a gene vector, is a potent tool to durably and adeptly enhance the processes of ACL repair and has been reported for its workability in various experimental models relevant to ACL injuries in vitro, in situ, and in vivo. As critical hurdles to the effective and safe translation of gene therapy for clinical applications still remain, including physiological barriers and host immune responses, biomaterial-guided gene therapy inspired by drug delivery systems has been further developed to protect and improve the classical procedures of gene transfer in the future treatment of ACL injuries in patients, as critically presented here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahnaz Amini
- Center of Experimental Orthopaedics, Saarland University Medical Center, Kirrbergerstr. Bldg 37, D-66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Jagadeesh K. Venkatesan
- Center of Experimental Orthopaedics, Saarland University Medical Center, Kirrbergerstr. Bldg 37, D-66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Wei Liu
- Center of Experimental Orthopaedics, Saarland University Medical Center, Kirrbergerstr. Bldg 37, D-66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Amélie Leroux
- Laboratoire CSPBAT UMR CNRS 7244, Université Sorbonne Paris Nord, Avenue JB Clément, 93430 Villetaneuse, France
| | - Tuan Ngoc Nguyen
- Laboratoire CSPBAT UMR CNRS 7244, Université Sorbonne Paris Nord, Avenue JB Clément, 93430 Villetaneuse, France
| | - Henning Madry
- Center of Experimental Orthopaedics, Saarland University Medical Center, Kirrbergerstr. Bldg 37, D-66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Véronique Migonney
- Laboratoire CSPBAT UMR CNRS 7244, Université Sorbonne Paris Nord, Avenue JB Clément, 93430 Villetaneuse, France
| | - Magali Cucchiarini
- Center of Experimental Orthopaedics, Saarland University Medical Center, Kirrbergerstr. Bldg 37, D-66421 Homburg, Germany
- Correspondence: or
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Gene delivery vectors are a crucial determinant for gene therapeutic efficacy. Usually, it is necessary to use an excess of cationic vectors to achieve better transfection efficiency. However, it will cause severe cytotoxicity. In addition, cationic vectors are not resistant to serum, suffering from reduced transfection efficiency by forming large aggregates. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop optimized gene delivery vectors. Recently, fluorination of vectors has been extensively applied to increase the gene delivery performance because of the unique properties of both hydrophobicity and lipophobicity, and chemical and biological inertness. AREAS COVERED This review will discuss the fluorophilic effects that impact gene delivery efficiency, and chemical modification approaches for fluorination. Next, recent advances and applications of fluorinated polymeric and lipidic vectors in gene therapy and gene editing are summarized. EXPERT OPINION Fluorinated vectors are a promising candidate for gene delivery. However, it still needs further studies to obtain pure and well-defined fluorinated polymers, guarantee the biosafety, and clarify the detailed mechanism. Apart from the improvements in gene delivery, exploiting other versatility of fluorinated vectors, such as oxygen-carrying ability, high affinity with fluorine-containing drugs, and imaging property upon introducing 19F, will further facilitate their applications in gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Wan
- Sichuan Engineering Research Center for Biomimetic Synthesis of Natural Drugs, School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China
| | - Yuhan Yang
- Sichuan Engineering Research Center for Biomimetic Synthesis of Natural Drugs, School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China
| | - Mingyu Wu
- Sichuan Engineering Research Center for Biomimetic Synthesis of Natural Drugs, School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China
| | - Shun Feng
- Sichuan Engineering Research Center for Biomimetic Synthesis of Natural Drugs, School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China
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Ashrafizadeh M, Hushmandi K, Mirzaei S, Bokaie S, Bigham A, Makvandi P, Rabiee N, Thakur VK, Kumar AP, Sharifi E, Varma RS, Aref AR, Wojnilowicz M, Zarrabi A, Karimi‐Maleh H, Voelcker NH, Mostafavi E, Orive G. Chitosan-based nanoscale systems for doxorubicin delivery: Exploring biomedical application in cancer therapy. Bioeng Transl Med 2022; 8:e10325. [PMID: 36684100 PMCID: PMC9842052 DOI: 10.1002/btm2.10325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Green chemistry has been a growing multidisciplinary field in recent years showing great promise in biomedical applications, especially for cancer therapy. Chitosan (CS) is an abundant biopolymer derived from chitin and is present in insects and fungi. This polysaccharide has favorable characteristics, including biocompatibility, biodegradability, and ease of modification by enzymes and chemicals. CS-based nanoparticles (CS-NPs) have shown potential in the treatment of cancer and other diseases, affording targeted delivery and overcoming drug resistance. The current review emphasizes on the application of CS-NPs for the delivery of a chemotherapeutic agent, doxorubicin (DOX), in cancer therapy as they promote internalization of DOX in cancer cells and prevent the activity of P-glycoprotein (P-gp) to reverse drug resistance. These nanoarchitectures can provide co-delivery of DOX with antitumor agents such as curcumin and cisplatin to induce synergistic cancer therapy. Furthermore, co-loading of DOX with siRNA, shRNA, and miRNA can suppress tumor progression and provide chemosensitivity. Various nanostructures, including lipid-, carbon-, polymeric- and metal-based nanoparticles, are modifiable with CS for DOX delivery, while functionalization of CS-NPs with ligands such as hyaluronic acid promotes selectivity toward tumor cells and prevents DOX resistance. The CS-NPs demonstrate high encapsulation efficiency and due to protonation of amine groups of CS, pH-sensitive release of DOX can occur. Furthermore, redox- and light-responsive CS-NPs have been prepared for DOX delivery in cancer treatment. Leveraging these characteristics and in view of the biocompatibility of CS-NPs, we expect to soon see significant progress towards clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milad Ashrafizadeh
- Faculty of Engineering and Natural SciencesSabanci University, Üniversite CaddesiTuzla, IstanbulTurkey
| | - Kiavash Hushmandi
- Department of Food Hygiene and Quality Control, Division of Epidemiology, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineUniversity of TehranTehranIran
| | - Sepideh Mirzaei
- Department of Biology, Faculty of ScienceIslamic Azad University, Science and Research BranchTehranIran
| | - Saied Bokaie
- Department of Food Hygiene and Quality Control, Division of Epidemiology, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineUniversity of TehranTehranIran
| | - Ashkan Bigham
- Institute of Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials ‐ National Research Council (IPCB‐CNR)NaplesItaly
| | - Pooyan Makvandi
- Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Center for Materials InterfacesPontedera, PisaItaly
| | - Navid Rabiee
- School of Engineering, Macquarie UniversitySydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Vijay Kumar Thakur
- School of EngineeringUniversity of Petroleum & Energy Studies (UPES)DehradunUttarakhandIndia,Biorefining and Advanced Materials Research Center, Scotland's Rural College (SRUC)EdinburghUK
| | - Alan Prem Kumar
- NUS Centre for Cancer Research (N2CR)Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of SingaporeSingaporeSingapore,Department of PharmacologyYong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of SingaporeKent RidgeSingapore
| | - Esmaeel Sharifi
- Department of Tissue Engineering and BiomaterialsSchool of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Hamadan University of Medical SciencesHamadanIran
| | - Rajender S. Varma
- Regional Center of Advanced Technologies and MaterialsCzech Advanced Technology and Research Institute, Palacky UniversityOlomoucCzech Republic
| | - Amir Reza Aref
- Belfer Center for Applied Cancer Science, Dana‐Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA,Xsphera Biosciences Inc.BostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Marcin Wojnilowicz
- Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) ManufacturingClaytonVictoriaAustralia,Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical SciencesParkvilleVictoriaAustralia
| | - Ali Zarrabi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Natural SciencesIstinye UniversityIstanbulTurkey
| | - Hassan Karimi‐Maleh
- School of Resources and Environment, University of Electronic Science and Technology of ChinaChengduPR China,Department of Chemical EngineeringQuchan University of TechnologyQuchanIran,Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Johannesburg, Doornfontein CampusJohannesburgSouth Africa
| | - Nicolas H. Voelcker
- Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) ManufacturingClaytonVictoriaAustralia,Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical SciencesParkvilleVictoriaAustralia,Melbourne Centre for NanofabricationVictorian Node of the Australian National Fabrication FacilityClaytonVictoriaAustralia
| | - Ebrahim Mostafavi
- Stanford Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University School of MedicineStanfordCaliforniaUSA,Department of MedicineStanford University School of MedicineStanfordCaliforniaUSA
| | - Gorka Orive
- NanoBioCel Research Group, School of PharmacyUniversity of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU)Vitoria‐GasteizSpain,University Institute for Regenerative Medicine and Oral Implantology–UIRMI(UPV/EHU‐Fundación Eduardo Anitua)Vitoria‐GasteizSpain,Bioaraba, NanoBioCel Research GroupVitoria‐GasteizSpain,Singapore Eye Research InstituteSingapore
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23
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Jin J, Yang QQ, Zhou YL. Non-Viral Delivery of Gene Therapy to the Tendon. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:polym14163338. [PMID: 36015594 PMCID: PMC9415435 DOI: 10.3390/polym14163338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Revised: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The tendon, as a compact connective tissue, is difficult to treat after an acute laceration or chronic degeneration. Gene-based therapy is a highly efficient strategy for diverse diseases which has been increasingly applied in tendons in recent years. As technology improves by leaps and bounds, a wide variety of non-viral vectors have been manufactured that attempt to have high biosecurity and transfection efficiency, considered to be a promising treatment modality. In this review, we examine the unwanted biological barriers, the categories of applicable genes, and the introduction and comparison of non-viral vectors. We focus on lipid-based nanoparticles and polymer-based nanoparticles, differentiating between them based on their combination with diverse chemical modifications and scaffolds.
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24
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Gholami L, Mahmoudi A, Kazemi Oskuee R, Malaekeh-Nikouei B. An overview of polyallylamine applications in gene delivery. Pharm Dev Technol 2022; 27:714-724. [PMID: 35880621 DOI: 10.1080/10837450.2022.2107014] [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: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
A chief objective of gene transportation studies is to manipulate clinically accepted carriers that can be utilized to combat incurable diseases. Despite various strategies, efficiency and application of these vectors have been hindered, owing to different obstacles. Polyallylamine (PAA) is a synthetic water-soluble, weak base cationic polymer with different properties that could be administrated as an ideal candidate for biomedical applications such as gene delivery, drug delivery, or even tissue engineering. However, some intrinsic properties of this polymer limit its application. The two associated problems with the use of PAA in gene delivery are low transfection efficiency (because of low buffering capacity) and cytotoxic effects attributed to intense cationic character. Most of the strategies for structural modification of the PAA structure have focused on introducing hydrophobic groups to the polymeric backbone that target both cytotoxicity and transfection. In this perspective, we concentrate on PAA as a gene delivery vehicle and the existing approaches for modification of this cationic polymer to give insight to researchers for exploitation of PAA as an efficient carrier in biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila Gholami
- Nanotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Asma Mahmoudi
- Nanotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Reza Kazemi Oskuee
- Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Bizhan Malaekeh-Nikouei
- Nanotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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25
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Applications of Ultrasound-Mediated Gene Delivery in Regenerative Medicine. Bioengineering (Basel) 2022; 9:bioengineering9050190. [PMID: 35621468 PMCID: PMC9137703 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering9050190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Research on the capability of non-viral gene delivery systems to induce tissue regeneration is a continued effort as the current use of viral vectors can present with significant limitations. Despite initially showing lower gene transfection and gene expression efficiencies, non-viral delivery methods continue to be optimized to match that of their viral counterparts. Ultrasound-mediated gene transfer, referred to as sonoporation, occurs by the induction of transient membrane permeabilization and has been found to significantly increase the uptake and expression of DNA in cells across many organ systems. In addition, it offers a more favorable safety profile compared to other non-viral delivery methods. Studies have shown that microbubble-enhanced sonoporation can elicit significant tissue regeneration in both ectopic and disease models, including bone and vascular tissue regeneration. Despite this, no clinical trials on the use of sonoporation for tissue regeneration have been conducted, although current clinical trials using sonoporation for other indications suggest that the method is safe for use in the clinical setting. In this review, we describe the pre-clinical studies conducted thus far on the use of sonoporation for tissue regeneration. Further, the various techniques used to increase the effectiveness and duration of sonoporation-induced gene transfer, as well as the obstacles that may be currently hindering clinical translation, are explored.
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26
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Gene-Activated Matrix with Self-Assembly Anionic Nano-Device Containing Plasmid DNAs for Rat Cranial Bone Augmentation. MATERIALS 2021; 14:ma14227097. [PMID: 34832496 PMCID: PMC8621468 DOI: 10.3390/ma14227097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Revised: 11/07/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
We have developed nanoballs, a biocompatible self-assembly nano-vector based on electrostatic interactions that arrange anionic macromolecules to polymeric nanomaterials to create nucleic acid carriers. Nanoballs exhibit low cytotoxicity and high transfection efficiently in vivo. This study investigated whether a gene-activated matrix (GAM) composed of nanoballs containing plasmid (p) DNAs encoding bone morphogenetic protein 4 (pBMP4) could promote bone augmentation with a small amount of DNA compared to that composed of naked pDNAs. We prepared nanoballs (BMP4-nanoballs) constructed with pBMP4 and dendrigraft poly-L-lysine (DGL, a cationic polymer) coated by γ-polyglutamic acid (γ-PGA; an anionic polymer), and determined their biological functions in vitro and in vivo. Next, GAMs were manufactured by mixing nanoballs with 2% atelocollagen and β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) granules and lyophilizing them for bone augmentation. The GAMs were then transplanted to rat cranial bone surfaces under the periosteum. From the initial stage, infiltrated macrophages and mesenchymal progenitor cells took up the nanoballs, and their anti-inflammatory and osteoblastic differentiations were promoted over time. Subsequently, bone augmentation was clearly recognized for up to 8 weeks in transplanted GAMs containing BMP4-nanoballs. Notably, only 1 μg of BMP4-nanoballs induced a sufficient volume of new bone, while 1000 μg of naked pDNAs were required to induce the same level of bone augmentation. These data suggest that applying this anionic vector to the appropriate matrices can facilitate GAM-based bone engineering.
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27
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Moreno-Gutierrez DS, Zepeda-Cervantes J, Vaca L, Hernandez-Garcia A. An artificial virus-like triblock protein shows low in vivo humoral immune response and high stability. MATERIALS SCIENCE & ENGINEERING. C, MATERIALS FOR BIOLOGICAL APPLICATIONS 2021; 129:112348. [PMID: 34579876 DOI: 10.1016/j.msec.2021.112348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Revised: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/24/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The use of viral vectors for in vivo gene therapy can be severely limited by their immunogenicity. Non-viral vectors may represent an alternative, however, reports analyzing their immunogenicity are still lacking. Here, we studied the humoral immune response in a murine model triggered by artificial virus-like particles (AVLPs) carrying plasmid or antisense DNA. The AVLPs were assembled using a family of modular proteins based on bioinspired collagen-like and silk-like sequences that produce virus-like particles. We compared our AVLPs against an Adeno Associated Virus 1 (AAV), a widely used viral vector for in vivo gene delivery that has been approved by the FDA and EMA for gene therapy. We found that a 1000-fold higher mass of AVLPs than AAV are necessary to obtain similar specific antibody titters. Furthermore, we studied the stability of AVLPs against relevant biological reagents such as heparin and fetal bovine serum to ensure nucleic acid protection in biological media. Our study demonstrates that the AVLPs are stable in physiological conditions and can overcome safety limitations such as immunogenicity. The scarce humoral immunogenicity and high stability found with AVLPs suggest that they have potential to be used as stealth non-viral gene delivery systems for in vivo studies or gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Silverio Moreno-Gutierrez
- Laboratory of Biomolecular Engineering and Bionanotechnology, Department of Chemistry of Biomacromolecules, Institute of Chemistry, UNAM, 04510 Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Jesús Zepeda-Cervantes
- Department of Cellular and Developmental Biology, Institute of Cellular Physiology, UNAM, Mexico; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Zootechnics, UNAM, Mexico
| | - Luis Vaca
- Department of Cellular and Developmental Biology, Institute of Cellular Physiology, UNAM, Mexico; Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Armando Hernandez-Garcia
- Laboratory of Biomolecular Engineering and Bionanotechnology, Department of Chemistry of Biomacromolecules, Institute of Chemistry, UNAM, 04510 Mexico City, Mexico.
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28
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Choi DH, Lee KE, Park J, Park YJ, Lee JY, Park YS. Cell-Permeable Oct4 Gene Delivery Enhances Stem Cell-like Properties of Mouse Embryonic Fibroblasts. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:9357. [PMID: 34502264 PMCID: PMC8430778 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22179357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Direct conversion of one cell type into another is a trans-differentiation process. Recent advances in fibroblast research revealed that epithelial cells can give rise to fibroblasts by epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Conversely, fibroblasts can also give rise to epithelia by undergoing a mesenchymal to epithelial transition. To elicit stem cell-like properties in fibroblasts, the Oct4 transcription factor acts as a master transcriptional regulator for reprogramming somatic cells. Notably, the production of gene complexes with cell-permeable peptides, such as low-molecular-weight protamine (LMWP), was proposed to induce reprogramming without cytotoxicity and genomic mutation. We designed a complex with non-cytotoxic LMWP to prevent the degradation of Oct4 and revealed that the positively charged cell-permeable LMWP helped condense the size of the Oct4-LMWP complexes (1:5 N:P ratio). When the Oct4-LMWP complex was delivered into mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs), stemness-related gene expression increased while fibroblast intrinsic properties decreased. We believe that the Oct4-LMWP complex developed in this study can be used to reprogram terminally differentiated somatic cells or convert them into stem cell-like cells without risk of cell death, improving the stemness level and stability of existing direct conversion techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Da Hyeon Choi
- Department of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, School of Biological Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea; (D.H.C.); (K.E.L.); (J.P.)
| | - Kyeong Eun Lee
- Department of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, School of Biological Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea; (D.H.C.); (K.E.L.); (J.P.)
| | - Jiwon Park
- Department of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, School of Biological Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea; (D.H.C.); (K.E.L.); (J.P.)
| | - Yoon Jeong Park
- Department of Dental Regenerative Bioengineering and Dental Research Institute, School of Dentistry, Seoul National University, Seoul 03080, Korea;
- Central Research Institute, Nano Intelligent Biomedical Engineering Corporation (NIBEC), School of Dentistry, Seoul National University, Seoul 03080, Korea;
| | - Jue-Yeon Lee
- Central Research Institute, Nano Intelligent Biomedical Engineering Corporation (NIBEC), School of Dentistry, Seoul National University, Seoul 03080, Korea;
| | - Yoon Shin Park
- Department of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, School of Biological Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea; (D.H.C.); (K.E.L.); (J.P.)
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29
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Macías I, Alcorta-Sevillano N, Infante A, Rodríguez CI. Cutting Edge Endogenous Promoting and Exogenous Driven Strategies for Bone Regeneration. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22147724. [PMID: 34299344 PMCID: PMC8306037 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22147724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Revised: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Bone damage leading to bone loss can arise from a wide range of causes, including those intrinsic to individuals such as infections or diseases with metabolic (diabetes), genetic (osteogenesis imperfecta), and/or age-related (osteoporosis) etiology, or extrinsic ones coming from external insults such as trauma or surgery. Although bone tissue has an intrinsic capacity of self-repair, large bone defects often require anabolic treatments targeting bone formation process and/or bone grafts, aiming to restore bone loss. The current bone surrogates used for clinical purposes are autologous, allogeneic, or xenogeneic bone grafts, which although effective imply a number of limitations: the need to remove bone from another location in the case of autologous transplants and the possibility of an immune rejection when using allogeneic or xenogeneic grafts. To overcome these limitations, cutting edge therapies for skeletal regeneration of bone defects are currently under extensive research with promising results; such as those boosting endogenous bone regeneration, by the stimulation of host cells, or the ones driven exogenously with scaffolds, biomolecules, and mesenchymal stem cells as key players of bone healing process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iratxe Macías
- Stem Cells and Cell Therapy Laboratory, BioCruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Cruces University Hospital, Plaza de Cruces S/N, 48903 Barakaldo, Spain; (I.M.); (N.A.-S.)
| | - Natividad Alcorta-Sevillano
- Stem Cells and Cell Therapy Laboratory, BioCruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Cruces University Hospital, Plaza de Cruces S/N, 48903 Barakaldo, Spain; (I.M.); (N.A.-S.)
- University of Basque Country UPV/EHU, 48940 Leioa, Spain
| | - Arantza Infante
- Stem Cells and Cell Therapy Laboratory, BioCruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Cruces University Hospital, Plaza de Cruces S/N, 48903 Barakaldo, Spain; (I.M.); (N.A.-S.)
- Correspondence: (A.I.); (C.I.R.)
| | - Clara I. Rodríguez
- Stem Cells and Cell Therapy Laboratory, BioCruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Cruces University Hospital, Plaza de Cruces S/N, 48903 Barakaldo, Spain; (I.M.); (N.A.-S.)
- Correspondence: (A.I.); (C.I.R.)
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30
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Mollinari C, Merlo D. Direct Reprogramming of Somatic Cells to Neurons: Pros and Cons of Chemical Approach. Neurochem Res 2021; 46:1330-1336. [PMID: 33666839 PMCID: PMC8084785 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-021-03282-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Revised: 01/31/2021] [Accepted: 02/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Translating successful preclinical research in neurodegenerative diseases into clinical practice has been difficult. The preclinical disease models used for testing new drugs not always appear predictive of the effects of the agents in the human disease state. Human induced pluripotent stem cells, obtained by reprogramming of adult somatic cells, represent a powerful system to study the molecular mechanisms of the disease onset and pathogenesis. However, these cells require a long time to differentiate into functional neural cells and the resetting of epigenetic information during reprogramming, might miss the information imparted by age. On the contrary, the direct conversion of somatic cells to neuronal cells is much faster and more efficient, it is safer for cell therapy and allows to preserve the signatures of donors’ age. Direct reprogramming can be induced by lineage-specific transcription factors or chemical cocktails and represents a powerful tool for modeling neurological diseases and for regenerative medicine. In this Commentary we present and discuss strength and weakness of several strategies for the direct cellular reprogramming from somatic cells to generate human brain cells which maintain age‐related features. In particular, we describe and discuss chemical strategy for cellular reprogramming as it represents a valuable tool for many applications such as aged brain modeling, drug screening and personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristiana Mollinari
- Institute of Translational Pharmacology, National Research Council, Via Fosso del Cavaliere 100, 00133, Rome, Italy. .,Department of Neuroscience, Istituto Superiore di Sanita', Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy.
| | - Daniela Merlo
- Department of Neuroscience, Istituto Superiore di Sanita', Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
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31
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Tang S, Salazar-Puerta A, Richards J, Khan S, Hoyland JA, Gallego-Perez D, Walter B, Higuita-Castro N, Purmessur D. Non-viral reprogramming of human nucleus pulposus cells with FOXF1 via extracellular vesicle delivery: an in vitro and in vivo study. Eur Cell Mater 2021; 41:90-107. [PMID: 33465243 PMCID: PMC8514169 DOI: 10.22203/ecm.v041a07] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration is characterized by decreased cellularity and proteoglycan synthesis and increased inflammation, catabolism, and neural/vascular ingrowth. Regenerative methods for IVD degeneration are largely cell-therapy-based or involve viral vectors, which are associated with mutagenesis and undesired immune responses. The present study used bulk electroporation and engineered extracellular vesicles (EVs) to deliver forkhead-box F1 (FOXF1) mRNA to degenerate human nucleus pulposus (NP) cells as a minimally invasive therapeutic strategy for IVD regeneration. Bulk electroporation was used to investigate FOXF1 effects on human NP cells during a 4-week culture in 3D agarose constructs. Engineered EV delivery of FOXF1 into human IVD cells in monolayer was determined, with subsequent in vivo validation in a pilot mouse IVD puncture model. FOXF1 transfection significantly altered gene expression by upregulating healthy NP markers [FOXF1, keratin 19 (KRT19)], decreasing inflammatory cytokines [interleukin (IL)-1β, -6], catabolic enzymes [metalloproteinase 13 (MMP13)] and nerve growth factor (NGF), with significant increases in glycosaminoglycan accumulation in human NP cells. Engineered EVs loaded with FOXF1 demonstrated successful encapsulation of FOXF1 cargo and effective uptake by human NP cells cultured in monolayer. Injection of FOXF1-loaded EVs into the mouse IVD in vivo resulted in a significant upregulation of FOXF1 and Brachyury, compared to controls at 7 d post-injection, with no evidence of cytotoxicity. This is the first study to demonstrate non-viral delivery of FOXF1 and reprogramming of human NP cells in vitro and mouse IVD cells in vivo. This strategy represents a non-addictive approach for treating IVD degeneration and associated back pain.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - D Purmessur
- 3155 Biomedical and Materials Engineering Complex, 140 W. 19th Ave, Columbus, OH 43210,
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