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Petersen DMS, Weiss RM, Hajj KA, Yerneni SS, Chaudhary N, Newby AN, Arral ML, Whitehead KA. Branched-Tail Lipid Nanoparticles for Intravenous mRNA Delivery to Lung Immune, Endothelial, and Alveolar Cells in Mice. Adv Healthc Mater 2024:e2400225. [PMID: 38888972 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202400225] [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: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) are proven safe and effective delivery systems on a global scale. However, their efficacy has been limited primarily to liver and immune cell targets. To extend the applicability of mRNA drugs, 580 ionizable lipidoids are synthesized and tested for delivery to extrahepatocellular targets. Of these, over 40 enabled protein expression in mice, with the majority transfecting the liver. Beyond the liver, several LNPs containing new, branched-tail ionizable lipidoids potently delivered mRNA to the lungs, with cell-level specificity depending on helper lipid chemistry. Incorporation of the neutral helper lipid 1,2-dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine (DOPE) at 16 mol% enabled highly specific delivery to natural killer and dendritic cells within the lung. Although inclusion of the cationic lipid 1,2-di-(9Z-octadecenoyl)-3-trimethylammonium-propane (DOTAP) improved lung tropism, it decreased cell specificity, resulting in equal transfection of endothelial and lymphoid cells. DOTAP formulations are also less favorable than DOPE formulations because they elevated liver enzyme and cytokine levels. Together, these data identify a new branched-tailed LNP with a unique ability to selectively transfect lung immune cell populations without the use of toxicity-prone cationic helper lipids. This novel vehicle may unlock RNA therapies for lung diseases associated with immune cell dysregulation, including cancer, viral infections, and autoimmune disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daria M Strelkova Petersen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, 5000 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - Ryan M Weiss
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, 5000 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - Khalid A Hajj
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, 5000 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - Saigopalakrishna S Yerneni
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, 5000 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - Namit Chaudhary
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, 5000 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - Alexandra N Newby
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, 5000 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - Mariah L Arral
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, 5000 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - Kathryn A Whitehead
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, 5000 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, 5000 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
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Gambaro R, Rivero Berti I, Limeres MJ, Huck-Iriart C, Svensson M, Fraude S, Pretsch L, Si S, Lieberwirth I, Gehring S, Cacicedo M, Islan GA. Optimizing mRNA-Loaded Lipid Nanoparticles as a Potential Tool for Protein-Replacement Therapy. Pharmaceutics 2024; 16:771. [PMID: 38931892 PMCID: PMC11207542 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16060771] [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: 05/15/2024] [Revised: 06/01/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) tailored for mRNA delivery were optimized to serve as a platform for treating metabolic diseases. Four distinct lipid mixes (LMs) were formulated by modifying various components: LM1 (ALC-0315/DSPC/Cholesterol/ALC-0159), LM2 (ALC-0315/DOPE/Cholesterol/ALC-0159), LM3 (ALC-0315/DSPC/Cholesterol/DMG-PEG2k), and LM4 (DLin-MC3-DMA/DSPC/Cholesterol/ALC-0159). LNPs exhibited stability and homogeneity with a mean size of 75 to 90 nm, confirmed by cryo-TEM and SAXS studies. High mRNA encapsulation (95-100%) was achieved. LNPs effectively delivered EGFP-encoding mRNA to HepG2 and DC2.4 cell lines. LNPs induced cytokine secretion from human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), revealing that LM1, LM2, and LM4 induced 1.5- to 4-fold increases in IL-8, TNF-α, and MCP-1 levels, while LM3 showed minimal changes. Reporter mRNA expression was observed in LNP-treated PBMCs. Hemotoxicity studies confirmed formulation biocompatibility with values below 2%. In vivo biodistribution in mice post intramuscular injection showed significant mRNA expression, mainly in the liver. The modification of LNP components influenced reactogenicity, inflammatory response, and mRNA expression, offering a promising platform for selecting less reactogenic carriers suitable for repetitive dosing in metabolic disease treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rocío Gambaro
- Children’s Hospital, University Medical Center of the Johannes, Gutenberg University, Langenbeckstr. 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (R.G.); (I.R.B.); (M.J.L.); (M.S.); (S.F.); (L.P.); (S.G.)
| | - Ignacio Rivero Berti
- Children’s Hospital, University Medical Center of the Johannes, Gutenberg University, Langenbeckstr. 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (R.G.); (I.R.B.); (M.J.L.); (M.S.); (S.F.); (L.P.); (S.G.)
- CINDEFI—Centro de Investigación y Desarrollo en Fermentaciones Industriales, Laboratorio de Nanobiomateriales (Universidad Nacional de La Plata (UNLP)-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET) LA PLATA), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas UNLP, La Plata 1900, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María José Limeres
- Children’s Hospital, University Medical Center of the Johannes, Gutenberg University, Langenbeckstr. 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (R.G.); (I.R.B.); (M.J.L.); (M.S.); (S.F.); (L.P.); (S.G.)
| | - Cristián Huck-Iriart
- Instituto de Tecnologías Emergentes y Ciencias Aplicadas (ITECA), Universidad Nacional de San Martín (UNSAM)-CONICET, Escuela de Ciencia y Tecnología (ECyT), Laboratorio de Cristalografía Aplicada (LCA), Campus Miguelete, San Martín 1650, Buenos Aires, Argentina;
- ALBA Synchrotron Light Source, Carrer de la Llum 2–26, Cerdanyola del Vallès, 08290 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Malin Svensson
- Children’s Hospital, University Medical Center of the Johannes, Gutenberg University, Langenbeckstr. 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (R.G.); (I.R.B.); (M.J.L.); (M.S.); (S.F.); (L.P.); (S.G.)
| | - Silvia Fraude
- Children’s Hospital, University Medical Center of the Johannes, Gutenberg University, Langenbeckstr. 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (R.G.); (I.R.B.); (M.J.L.); (M.S.); (S.F.); (L.P.); (S.G.)
| | - Leah Pretsch
- Children’s Hospital, University Medical Center of the Johannes, Gutenberg University, Langenbeckstr. 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (R.G.); (I.R.B.); (M.J.L.); (M.S.); (S.F.); (L.P.); (S.G.)
| | - Shutian Si
- Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research, Department of Physical Chemistry of Polymers, Ackermannweg 10, 55128 Mainz, Germany; (S.S.); (I.L.)
| | - Ingo Lieberwirth
- Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research, Department of Physical Chemistry of Polymers, Ackermannweg 10, 55128 Mainz, Germany; (S.S.); (I.L.)
| | - Stephan Gehring
- Children’s Hospital, University Medical Center of the Johannes, Gutenberg University, Langenbeckstr. 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (R.G.); (I.R.B.); (M.J.L.); (M.S.); (S.F.); (L.P.); (S.G.)
| | - Maximiliano Cacicedo
- Children’s Hospital, University Medical Center of the Johannes, Gutenberg University, Langenbeckstr. 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (R.G.); (I.R.B.); (M.J.L.); (M.S.); (S.F.); (L.P.); (S.G.)
| | - Germán Abel Islan
- Children’s Hospital, University Medical Center of the Johannes, Gutenberg University, Langenbeckstr. 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (R.G.); (I.R.B.); (M.J.L.); (M.S.); (S.F.); (L.P.); (S.G.)
- CINDEFI—Centro de Investigación y Desarrollo en Fermentaciones Industriales, Laboratorio de Nanobiomateriales (Universidad Nacional de La Plata (UNLP)-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET) LA PLATA), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas UNLP, La Plata 1900, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Delbreil P, Dhondt S, Kenaan El Rahbani RM, Banquy X, Mitchell JJ, Brambilla D. Current Advances and Material Innovations in the Search for Novel Treatments of Phenylketonuria. Adv Healthc Mater 2024:e2401353. [PMID: 38801163 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202401353] [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: 04/12/2024] [Revised: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a genetically inherited disease caused by a mutation of the gene encoding phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH) and is the most common inborn error of amino acid metabolism. A deficiency of PAH leads to increased blood and brain levels of phenylalanine (Phe), which may cause permanent neurocognitive symptoms and developmental delays if untreated. Current management strategies for PKU consist of early detection through neonatal screening and implementation of a restrictive diet with minimal amounts of natural protein in combination with Phe-free supplements and low-protein foods to meet nutritional requirements. For milder forms of PKU, oral treatment with synthetic sapropterin (BH4), the cofactor of PAH, may improve metabolic control of Phe and allow for more natural protein to be included in the patient's diet. For more severe forms, daily injections of pegvaliase, a PEGylated variant of phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL), may allow for normalization of blood Phe levels. However, the latter treatment has considerable drawbacks, notably a strong immunogenicity of the exogenous enzyme and the attached polymeric chains. Research for novel therapies of PKU makes use of innovative materials for drug delivery and state-of-the-art protein engineering techniques to develop treatments which are safer, more effective, and potentially permanent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philippe Delbreil
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Université de Montréal, Québec, H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Sofie Dhondt
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Université de Montréal, Québec, H3T 1J4, Canada
| | | | - Xavier Banquy
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Université de Montréal, Québec, H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - John J Mitchell
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Québec, H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Davide Brambilla
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Université de Montréal, Québec, H3T 1J4, Canada
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4
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Chu R, Wang Y, Kong J, Pan T, Yang Y, He J. Lipid nanoparticles as the drug carrier for targeted therapy of hepatic disorders. J Mater Chem B 2024; 12:4759-4784. [PMID: 38682294 DOI: 10.1039/d3tb02766j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
The liver, a complex and vital organ in the human body, is susceptible to various diseases, including metabolic disorders, acute hepatitis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. In recent decades, these diseases have significantly contributed to global morbidity and mortality. Currently, liver transplantation remains the most effective treatment for hepatic disorders. Nucleic acid therapeutics offer a selective approach to disease treatment through diverse mechanisms, enabling the regulation of relevant genes and providing a novel therapeutic avenue for hepatic disorders. It is expected that nucleic acid drugs will emerge as the third generation of pharmaceuticals, succeeding small molecule drugs and antibody drugs. Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) represent a crucial technology in the field of drug delivery and constitute a significant advancement in gene therapies. Nucleic acids encapsulated in LNPs are shielded from the degradation of enzymes and effectively delivered to cells, where they are released and regulate specific genes. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the structure, composition, and applications of LNPs in the treatment of hepatic disorders and offers insights into prospects and challenges in the future development of LNPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Runxuan Chu
- National Advanced Medical Engineering Research Center, China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, 285 Gebaini Road, Shanghai 201203, P. R. China.
| | - Yi Wang
- Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tung, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China.
| | - Jianglong Kong
- Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tung, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China.
| | - Ting Pan
- National Advanced Medical Engineering Research Center, China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, 285 Gebaini Road, Shanghai 201203, P. R. China.
- Department of Pharmaceutics School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, P. R. China
| | - Yani Yang
- National Advanced Medical Engineering Research Center, China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, 285 Gebaini Road, Shanghai 201203, P. R. China.
| | - Jun He
- National Advanced Medical Engineering Research Center, China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, 285 Gebaini Road, Shanghai 201203, P. R. China.
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Wu Y, Yu S, de Lázaro I. Advances in lipid nanoparticle mRNA therapeutics beyond COVID-19 vaccines. NANOSCALE 2024; 16:6820-6836. [PMID: 38502114 DOI: 10.1039/d4nr00019f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
The remarkable success of two lipid nanoparticle-mRNA vaccines against coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has placed the therapeutic and prophylactic potential of messenger RNA (mRNA) in the spotlight. It has also drawn attention to the indispensable role of lipid nanoparticles in enabling the effects of this nucleic acid. To date, lipid nanoparticles are the most clinically advanced non-viral platforms for mRNA delivery. This is thanks to their favorable safety profile and efficiency in protecting the nucleic acid from degradation and allowing its cellular uptake and cytoplasmic release upon endosomal escape. Moreover, the development of lipid nanoparticle-mRNA therapeutics was already a very active area of research even before the COVID-19 pandemic, which has likely only begun to bear its fruits. In this Review, we first discuss key aspects of the development of lipid nanoparticles as mRNA carriers. We then highlight promising preclinical and clinical studies involving lipid nanoparticle-mRNA formulations against infectious diseases and cancer, and to enable protein replacement or supplementation and genome editing. Finally, we elaborate on the challenges in advancing lipid nanoparticle-mRNA technology to widespread therapeutic use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeung Wu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, NYU Tandon School of Engineering, New York University, USA.
| | - Sinuo Yu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, NYU Tandon School of Engineering, New York University, USA.
| | - Irene de Lázaro
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, NYU Tandon School of Engineering, New York University, USA.
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, USA
- Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Science, Harvard University, USA
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6
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Baruteau J, Brunetti-Pierri N, Gissen P. Liver-directed gene therapy for inherited metabolic diseases. J Inherit Metab Dis 2024; 47:9-21. [PMID: 38171926 DOI: 10.1002/jimd.12709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Gene therapy clinical trials are rapidly expanding for inherited metabolic liver diseases whilst two gene therapy products have now been approved for liver based monogenic disorders. Liver-directed gene therapy has recently become an option for treatment of haemophilias and is likely to become one of the favoured therapeutic strategies for inherited metabolic liver diseases in the near future. In this review, we present the different gene therapy vectors and strategies for liver-targeting, including gene editing. We highlight the current development of viral and nonviral gene therapy for a number of inherited metabolic liver diseases including urea cycle defects, organic acidaemias, Crigler-Najjar disease, Wilson disease, glycogen storage disease Type Ia, phenylketonuria and maple syrup urine disease. We describe the main limitations and open questions for further gene therapy development: immunogenicity, inflammatory response, genotoxicity, gene therapy administration in a fibrotic liver. The follow-up of a constantly growing number of gene therapy treated patients allows better understanding of its benefits and limitations and provides strategies to design safer and more efficacious treatments. Undoubtedly, liver-targeting gene therapy offers a promising avenue for innovative therapies with an unprecedented potential to address the unmet needs of patients suffering from inherited metabolic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julien Baruteau
- Department of Paediatric Metabolic Medicine, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Trust, London, UK
- University College London Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
- National Institute of Health Research Great Ormond Street Biomedical Research Centre, London, UK
| | - Nicola Brunetti-Pierri
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine, Pozzuoli, Italy
- Department of Translational Medicine, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
- Scuola Superiore Meridionale (SSM, School of Advanced Studies), Genomics and Experimental Medicine Program, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Paul Gissen
- Department of Paediatric Metabolic Medicine, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Trust, London, UK
- University College London Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
- National Institute of Health Research Great Ormond Street Biomedical Research Centre, London, UK
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Martinez M, Harding CO, Schwank G, Thöny B. State-of-the-art 2023 on gene therapy for phenylketonuria. J Inherit Metab Dis 2024; 47:80-92. [PMID: 37401651 PMCID: PMC10764640 DOI: 10.1002/jimd.12651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023]
Abstract
Phenylketonuria (PKU) or hyperphenylalaninemia is considered a paradigm for an inherited (metabolic) liver defect and is, based on murine models that replicate all human pathology, an exemplar model for experimental studies on liver gene therapy. Variants in the PAH gene that lead to hyperphenylalaninemia are never fatal (although devastating if untreated), newborn screening has been available for two generations, and dietary treatment has been considered for a long time as therapeutic and satisfactory. However, significant shortcomings of contemporary dietary treatment of PKU remain. A long list of various gene therapeutic experimental approaches using the classical model for human PKU, the homozygous enu2/2 mouse, witnesses the value of this model to develop treatment for a genetic liver defect. The list of experiments for proof of principle includes recombinant viral (AdV, AAV, and LV) and non-viral (naked DNA or LNP-mRNA) vector delivery methods, combined with gene addition, genome, gene or base editing, and gene insertion or replacement. In addition, a list of current and planned clinical trials for PKU gene therapy is included. This review summarizes, compares, and evaluates the various approaches for the sake of scientific understanding and efficacy testing that may eventually pave the way for safe and efficient human application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Martinez
- Department of Molecular and Medical Genetics, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Cary O. Harding
- Department of Molecular and Medical Genetics, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Gerald Schwank
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Beat Thöny
- Division of Metabolism, University Children’s Hospital Zurich and Children’s Research Centre, Zurich, Switzerland
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Qin Y, Ou L, Zha L, Zeng Y, Li L. Delivery of nucleic acids using nanomaterials. MOLECULAR BIOMEDICINE 2023; 4:48. [PMID: 38092998 PMCID: PMC10719232 DOI: 10.1186/s43556-023-00160-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The increasing number of approved nucleic acid therapeutics demonstrates the potential for the prevention and treatment of a broad spectrum of diseases. This trend underscores the significant impact and promise of nucleic acid-based treatments in the field of medicine. Nevertheless, employing nucleic acids as therapeutics is challenging due to their susceptibility to degradation by nucleases and their unfavorable physicochemical characteristics that hinder delivery into cells. Appropriate vectors play a pivotal role in improving nucleic acid stability and delivering nucleic acids into specific cells. The maturation of delivery systems has led to breakthroughs in the development of therapeutics based on nucleic acids such as DNA, siRNA, and mRNA. Non-viral vectors have gained prominence among the myriad of nanomaterials due to low immunogenicity, ease of manufacturing, and simplicity of cost-effective, large-scale production. Here, we provide an overview of the recent advancements in nanomaterials for nucleic acid delivery. Specifically, we give a detailed introduction to the characteristics of polymers, lipids, and polymer-lipid hybrids, and provide comprehensive descriptions of their applications in nucleic acid delivery. Also, biological barriers, administration routes, and strategies for organ-selective delivery of nucleic acids are discussed. In summary, this review offers insights into the rational design of next-generation delivery vectors for nucleic acid delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuyang Qin
- West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Liyuan Ou
- West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Lili Zha
- West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yue Zeng
- West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Ling Li
- West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
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Strelkova Petersen DM, Chaudhary N, Arral ML, Weiss RM, Whitehead KA. The mixing method used to formulate lipid nanoparticles affects mRNA delivery efficacy and organ tropism. Eur J Pharm Biopharm 2023; 192:126-135. [PMID: 37838143 PMCID: PMC10826902 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2023.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2023] [Revised: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/16/2023]
Abstract
mRNA is a versatile drug molecule with therapeutic applications ranging from protein replacement therapies to in vivo gene engineering. mRNA delivery is often accomplished using lipid nanoparticles, which are formulated via mixing of aqueous and organic solutions. Although this has historically been accomplished by manual mixing for bench scale science, microfluidic mixing is required for scalable continuous manufacturing and batch to batch control. Currently, there is limited understanding on how the mixing process affects mRNA delivery efficacy, particularly in regard to tropism. To address this knowledge gap, we examined the influence of the type of mixing and microfluidic mixing parameters on the performance of lipid nanoparticles in mice. This was accomplished with a Design of Experiment approach using four nanoparticle formulations with varied ionizable lipid chemistry. We found that each formulation required unique optimization of mixing parameters, with the total delivery efficacy of each lipid nanoparticle generated with microfluidics ranging from 100-fold less to 4-fold more than manually mixed LNPs. Further, mixing parameters influenced organ tropism, with the most efficacious formulations disproportionately increasing liver delivery compared to other organs. These data suggest that mixing parameters for lipid nanoparticle production may require optimization for each unique chemical formulation, complicating translational efforts. Further, microfluidic parameters must be chosen carefully to balance overall mRNA delivery efficacy with application-specific tropism requirements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daria M Strelkova Petersen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, 5000, Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Namit Chaudhary
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, 5000, Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Mariah L Arral
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, 5000, Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Ryan M Weiss
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, 5000, Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Kathryn A Whitehead
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, 5000, Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; Department of Chemical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, 5000, Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA.
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10
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Zhang G, Tang T, Chen Y, Huang X, Liang T. mRNA vaccines in disease prevention and treatment. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:365. [PMID: 37726283 PMCID: PMC10509165 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01579-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023] Open
Abstract
mRNA vaccines have emerged as highly effective strategies in the prophylaxis and treatment of diseases, thanks largely although not totally to their extraordinary performance in recent years against the worldwide plague COVID-19. The huge superiority of mRNA vaccines regarding their efficacy, safety, and large-scale manufacture encourages pharmaceutical industries and biotechnology companies to expand their application to a diverse array of diseases, despite the nonnegligible problems in design, fabrication, and mode of administration. This review delves into the technical underpinnings of mRNA vaccines, covering mRNA design, synthesis, delivery, and adjuvant technologies. Moreover, this review presents a systematic retrospective analysis in a logical and well-organized manner, shedding light on representative mRNA vaccines employed in various diseases. The scope extends across infectious diseases, cancers, immunological diseases, tissue damages, and rare diseases, showcasing the versatility and potential of mRNA vaccines in diverse therapeutic areas. Furthermore, this review engages in a prospective discussion regarding the current challenge and potential direction for the advancement and utilization of mRNA vaccines. Overall, this comprehensive review serves as a valuable resource for researchers, clinicians, and industry professionals, providing a comprehensive understanding of the technical aspects, historical context, and future prospects of mRNA vaccines in the fight against various diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gang Zhang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310009, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310003, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, 310003, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- The Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, 310009, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, 310058, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Tianyu Tang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310009, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310003, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, 310003, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- The Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, 310009, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, 310058, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yinfeng Chen
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310009, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310003, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, 310003, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- The Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, 310009, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, 310058, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xing Huang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310009, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310003, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, 310003, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- The Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, 310009, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, 310058, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Tingbo Liang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310009, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310003, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, 310003, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- The Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, 310009, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, 310058, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
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Thran M, Pönisch M, Danz H, Horscroft N, Ichtchenko K, Tzipori S, Shoemaker CB. Co-administration of an effector antibody enhances the half-life and therapeutic potential of RNA-encoded nanobodies. Sci Rep 2023; 13:14632. [PMID: 37670025 PMCID: PMC10480410 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-41092-7] [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: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The incidence of Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) and associated mortality have increased rapidly worldwide in recent years. Therefore, it is critical to develop new therapies for CDI. Here we report on the development of mRNA-LNPs encoding camelid-derived VHH-based neutralizing agents (VNAs) targeting toxins A and/or B of C. difficile. In preclinical models, intravenous administration of the mRNA-LNPs provided serum VNA levels sufficient to confer protection of mice against severe disease progression following toxin challenge. Furthermore, we employed an mRNA-LNP encoded effector antibody, a molecular tool designed to specifically bind an epitopic tag linked to the VNAs, to prolong VNA serum half-life. Co-administration of VNA-encoding mRNA-LNPs and an effector antibody, either provided as recombinant protein or encoded by mRNA-LNP, increased serum VNA half-life in mice and in gnotobiotic piglets. Prolonged serum half-life was associated with higher concentrations of serum VNA and enhanced prophylactic protection of mice in challenge models.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Hillary Danz
- Department of Infectious Disease and Global Health, Tufts Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, North Grafton, MA, 01536, USA
| | | | - Konstantin Ichtchenko
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Saul Tzipori
- Department of Infectious Disease and Global Health, Tufts Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, North Grafton, MA, 01536, USA
| | - Charles B Shoemaker
- Department of Infectious Disease and Global Health, Tufts Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, North Grafton, MA, 01536, USA.
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Cacicedo ML, Limeres MJ, Gehring S. mRNA-Based Approaches to Treating Liver Diseases. Cells 2022; 11:3328. [PMID: 36291194 PMCID: PMC9601253 DOI: 10.3390/cells11203328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Diseases that affect the liver account for approximately 2 million deaths worldwide each year. The increasing prevalence of these diseases and the limited efficacy of current treatments are expected to stimulate substantial growth in the global market for therapeutics that target the liver. Currently, liver transplantation is the only curative option available for many liver diseases. Gene therapy represents a valuable approach to treatment. The liver plays a central role in a myriad of essential metabolic functions, making it an attractive organ for gene therapy; hepatocytes comprise the most relevant target. To date, viral vectors constitute the preferred approach to targeting hepatocytes with genes of therapeutic interest. Alternatively, mRNA-based therapy offers a number of comparative advantages. Clinical and preclinical studies undertaken to treat inherited metabolic diseases affecting the liver, cirrhosis and fibrosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, hepatitis B, and cytomegalovirus using lipid nanoparticle-encapsulated mRNAs that encode the therapeutic or antigenic protein of interest are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maximiliano L. Cacicedo
- Children’s Hospital, University Medical Center Mainz of the Johannes-Gutenberg University, Langenbeckstr. 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany
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