1
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Liu J, Koay TW, Maiakovska O, Zayas ML, Grimm D. Progress in bioengineering of myotropic Adeno-associated viral (AAV) gene therapy vectors. Hum Gene Ther 2023; 34:350-364. [PMID: 37082964 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2023.057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The ability to specifically, safely and efficiently transfer therapeutic payloads to the striated musculature via a minimally invasive delivery route remains one of the most important but also most ambitious aims in human gene therapy. Over the last two decades, a flurry of groups have harnessed recombinant Adeno-associated viruses (AAV) for this purpose, carrying cargoes that were packaged either in one of the various wild-type capsids or in a synthetic protein shell derived by molecular bioengineering. Here, we provide an overview over the most commonly used techniques for the enrichment of muscle-specific (myotropic) AAV capsids, typically starting off with the genetic diversification of one or more extant wild-type sequences, followed by the stratification of the ensuing capsid libraries in different muscle types in small or large animals. These techniques include the shuffling of multiple parental capsid genes, peptide display in exposed capsid loops, mutagenesis of individual capsid residues, creation of chimeras between two viral parents, or combinations thereof. Moreover, we highlight alternative experimental or bioinformatic strategies such as ancestral reconstruction or rational design, all of which have already been employed successfully to derive synthetic AAV capsids or vectors with unprecedented in vivo efficiency and/or specificity in the musculature. Most recently, these efforts have culminated in the isolation of unique clades of myotropic vectors called AAVMYO or MyoAAV that have in common the display of the amino-acid motif RGD (arginine-glycine-aspartate) on the capsid surface, and that exhibit the highest transduction rate in striated muscles of mice or non-human primates reported to date. Finally, we note essential looming improvements that will facilitate and accelerate clinical translation of these latest generations of myotropic AAVs, including the identification and utilization of capsid selection or validation schemes that promise optimal translation in humans, and continued efforts to enhance patient safety by minimizing hepatic off-targeting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jixin Liu
- Heidelberg University, Infectious Diseases/Virology, Heidelberg, BW, Germany;
| | - Teng Wei Koay
- Heidelberg University, Infectious Diseases/Virology, Heidelberg, BW, Germany;
| | - Olena Maiakovska
- Heidelberg University, Infectious Diseases/Virology, Heidelberg, BW, Germany;
| | | | - Dirk Grimm
- Heidelberg University, Infectious Diseases/Virology, BioQuant BQ0030, Im Neuenheimer Feld 267, Heidelberg, BW, Germany, D-69120;
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2
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Issa SS, Shaimardanova AA, Solovyeva VV, Rizvanov AA. Various AAV Serotypes and Their Applications in Gene Therapy: An Overview. Cells 2023; 12:cells12050785. [PMID: 36899921 PMCID: PMC10000783 DOI: 10.3390/cells12050785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite scientific discoveries in the field of gene and cell therapy, some diseases still have no effective treatment. Advances in genetic engineering methods have enabled the development of effective gene therapy methods for various diseases based on adeno-associated viruses (AAVs). Today, many AAV-based gene therapy medications are being investigated in preclinical and clinical trials, and new ones are appearing on the market. In this article, we present a review of AAV discovery, properties, different serotypes, and tropism, and a following detailed explanation of their uses in gene therapy for disease of different organs and systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaza S. Issa
- Department of Genetics and Biotechnology, St. Petersburg State University, 199034 St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Alisa A. Shaimardanova
- Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan Federal University, 420008 Kazan, Russia
| | - Valeriya V. Solovyeva
- Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan Federal University, 420008 Kazan, Russia
| | - Albert A. Rizvanov
- Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan Federal University, 420008 Kazan, Russia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +7-(905)-3167599
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3
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Gene Therapy for Mitochondrial Diseases: Current Status and Future Perspective. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14061287. [PMID: 35745859 PMCID: PMC9231068 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14061287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Mitochondrial diseases (MDs) are a group of severe genetic disorders caused by mutations in the nuclear or mitochondrial genome encoding proteins involved in the oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) system. MDs have a wide range of symptoms, ranging from organ-specific to multisystemic dysfunctions, with different clinical outcomes. The lack of natural history information, the limits of currently available preclinical models, and the wide range of phenotypic presentations seen in MD patients have all hampered the development of effective therapies. The growing number of pre-clinical and clinical trials over the last decade has shown that gene therapy is a viable precision medicine option for treating MD. However, several obstacles must be overcome, including vector design, targeted tissue tropism and efficient delivery, transgene expression, and immunotoxicity. This manuscript offers a comprehensive overview of the state of the art of gene therapy in MD, addressing the main challenges, the most feasible solutions, and the future perspectives of the field.
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4
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Lopez-Gordo E, Orlowski A, Wang A, Weinberg A, Sahoo S, Weber T. Hydroxylation of N-acetylneuraminic Acid Influences the in vivo Tropism of N-linked Sialic Acid-Binding Adeno-Associated Viruses AAV1, AAV5, and AAV6. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:732095. [PMID: 35036407 PMCID: PMC8757481 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.732095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors are promising candidates for gene therapy. However, a number of recent preclinical large animal studies failed to translate into the clinic. This illustrates the formidable challenge of choosing the animal models that promise the best chance of a successful translation into the clinic. Several of the most common AAV serotypes use sialic acid (SIA) as their primary receptor. However, in contrast to most mammals, humans lack the enzyme CMAH, which hydroxylates cytidine monophosphate-N-acetylneuraminic acid (CMP-Neu5Ac) into cytidine monophosphate-N-glycolylneuraminic acid (CMP-Neu5Gc). As a result, human glycans only contain Neu5Ac and not Neu5Gc. Here, we investigate the tropism of AAV1, 5, 6 and 9 in wild-type C57BL/6J (WT) and CMAH knock-out (CMAH−/−) mice. All N-linked SIA-binding serotypes (AAV1, 5 and 6) showed significantly lower transduction of the heart in CMAH−/− when compared to WT mice (5–5.8-fold) and, strikingly, skeletal muscle transduction by AAV5 was almost 30-fold higher in CMAH−/− compared to WT mice. Importantly, the AAV tropism or distribution of expression among different organs was also affected. For AAV1, AAV5 and AAV6, expression in the heart compared to the liver was 4.6–8-fold higher in WT than in CMAH−/− mice, and for AAV5 the expression in the heart compared to the skeletal muscle was 57.3-fold higher in WT than in CMAH−/− mice. These data thus strongly suggest that the relative abundance of Neu5Ac and Neu5Gc plays a role in AAV tropism, and that results obtained in commonly used animal models might not translate into the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Estrella Lopez-Gordo
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York City, NY, United States
| | - Alejandro Orlowski
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York City, NY, United States
| | - Arthur Wang
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York City, NY, United States
| | - Alan Weinberg
- Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York City, NY, United States
| | - Susmita Sahoo
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York City, NY, United States
| | - Thomas Weber
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York City, NY, United States
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York City, NY, United States
- *Correspondence: Thomas Weber
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5
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Fakhiri J, Grimm D. Best of most possible worlds: Hybrid gene therapy vectors based on parvoviruses and heterologous viruses. Mol Ther 2021; 29:3359-3382. [PMID: 33831556 PMCID: PMC8636155 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2021.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2020] [Revised: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Parvoviruses and especially the adeno-associated virus (AAV) species provide an exciting and versatile platform for the rational design or molecular evolution of human gene-therapy vectors, documented by literature from over half a century, hundreds of clinical trials, and the recent commercialization of multiple AAV gene therapeutics. For the last three decades, the power of these vectors has been further potentiated through various types of hybrid vectors created by intra- or inter-genus juxtaposition of viral DNA and protein cis elements or by synergistic complementation of parvoviral features with those of heterologous, prokaryotic, or eukaryotic viruses. Here, we provide an overview of the history and promise of this rapidly expanding field of hybrid parvoviral gene-therapy vectors, starting with early generations of chimeric particles composed of a recombinant AAV genome encapsidated in shells of synthetic AAVs or of adeno-, herpes-, baculo-, or protoparvoviruses. We then dedicate our attention to two newer, highly promising types of hybrid vectors created via (1) pseudotyping of AAV genomes with bocaviral serotypes and capsid mutants or (2) packaging of AAV DNA into, or tethering of entire vector particles to, bacteriophages. Finally, we conclude with an outlook summarizing critical requirements and improvements toward clinical translation of these original concepts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Fakhiri
- Department of Infectious Diseases/Virology, Medical Faculty, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany; BioQuant, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Dirk Grimm
- Department of Infectious Diseases/Virology, Medical Faculty, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany; BioQuant, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany; German Center for Infection Research (DZIF) and German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner site Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.
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6
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Gadgil A, Raczyńska KD. U7 snRNA: A tool for gene therapy. J Gene Med 2021; 23:e3321. [PMID: 33590603 PMCID: PMC8243935 DOI: 10.1002/jgm.3321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Revised: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Most U-rich small nuclear ribonucleoproteins (snRNPs) are complexes that mediate the splicing of pre-mRNAs. U7 snRNP is an exception in that it is not involved in splicing but is a key factor in the unique 3' end processing of replication-dependent histone mRNAs. However, by introducing controlled changes in the U7 snRNA histone binding sequence and in the Sm motif, it can be used as an effective tool for gene therapy. The modified U7 snRNP (U7 Sm OPT) is thus not involved in the processing of replication-dependent histone pre-mRNA but targets splicing by inducing efficient skipping or inclusion of selected exons. U7 Sm OPT is of therapeutic importance in diseases that are an outcome of splicing defects, such as myotonic dystrophy, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, β-thalassemia, HIV-1 infection and spinal muscular atrophy. The benefits of using U7 Sm OPT for gene therapy are its compact size, ability to accumulate in the nucleus without causing any toxic effects in the cells, and no immunoreactivity. The risk of transgene misregulation by using U7 Sm OPT is also low because it is involved in correcting the expression of an endogenous gene controlled by its own regulatory elements. Altogether, using U7 Sm OPT as a tool in gene therapy can ensure lifelong treatment, whereas an oligonucleotide or other drug/compound would require repeated administration. It would thus be strategic to harness these unique properties of U7 snRNP and deploy it as a tool in gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankur Gadgil
- Department of Gene Expression, Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of BiologyAdam Mickiewicz UniversityPoznanPoland
- Center for Advanced TechnologyAdam Mickiewicz UniversityPoznanPoland
| | - Katarzyna Dorota Raczyńska
- Department of Gene Expression, Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of BiologyAdam Mickiewicz UniversityPoznanPoland
- Center for Advanced TechnologyAdam Mickiewicz UniversityPoznanPoland
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7
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Doyle BM, Singer ML, Fleury-Curado T, Rana S, Benevides ES, Byrne BJ, Polotsky VY, Fuller DD. Gene delivery to the hypoglossal motor system: preclinical studies and translational potential. Gene Ther 2021; 28:402-412. [PMID: 33574581 PMCID: PMC8355248 DOI: 10.1038/s41434-021-00225-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Revised: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Dysfunction and/or reduced activity in the tongue muscles contributes to conditions such as dysphagia, dysarthria, and sleep disordered breathing. Current treatments are often inadequate, and the tongue is a readily accessible target for therapeutic gene delivery. In this regard, gene therapy specifically targeting the tongue motor system offers two general strategies for treating lingual disorders. First, correcting tongue myofiber and/or hypoglossal (XII) motoneuron pathology in genetic neuromuscular disorders may be readily achieved by intralingual delivery of viral vectors. The retrograde movement of viral vectors such as adeno-associated virus (AAV) enables targeted distribution to XII motoneurons via intralingual viral delivery. Second, conditions with impaired or reduced tongue muscle activation can potentially be treated using viral-driven chemo- or optogenetic approaches to activate or inhibit XII motoneurons and/or tongue myofibers. Further considerations that are highly relevant to lingual gene therapy include (1) the diversity of the motoneurons which control the tongue, (2) the patterns of XII nerve branching, and (3) the complexity of tongue muscle anatomy and biomechanics. Preclinical studies show considerable promise for lingual directed gene therapy in neuromuscular disease, but the potential of such approaches is largely untapped.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brendan M Doyle
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.,McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.,Rehabilitation Science PhD Program, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.,Breathing Research and Therapeutics Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Michele L Singer
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.,McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.,Rehabilitation Science PhD Program, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.,Breathing Research and Therapeutics Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Thomaz Fleury-Curado
- Department of Pediatrics and Powell Gene Therapy Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.,Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Sabhya Rana
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.,McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.,Breathing Research and Therapeutics Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Ethan S Benevides
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.,McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.,Rehabilitation Science PhD Program, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.,Breathing Research and Therapeutics Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Barry J Byrne
- Department of Pediatrics and Powell Gene Therapy Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Vsevolod Y Polotsky
- Department of Pediatrics and Powell Gene Therapy Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.,Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - David D Fuller
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA. .,McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA. .,Breathing Research and Therapeutics Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.
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8
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Francis JS, Markov V, Wojtas ID, Gray S, McCown T, Samulski RJ, Figueroa M, Leone P. Preclinical biodistribution, tropism, and efficacy of oligotropic AAV/Olig001 in a mouse model of congenital white matter disease. MOLECULAR THERAPY-METHODS & CLINICAL DEVELOPMENT 2021; 20:520-534. [PMID: 33614826 PMCID: PMC7878967 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2021.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 01/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Recent advances in adeno-associated viral (AAV) capsid variants with novel oligotropism require validation in models of disease in order to be viable candidates for white matter disease gene therapy. We present here an assessment of the biodistribution, tropism, and efficacy of a novel AAV capsid variant (AAV/ Olig001) in a model of Canavan disease. We first define a combination of dose and route of administration of an AAV/Olig001-GFP reporter conducive to widespread CNS oligodendrocyte transduction in acutely symptomatic animals that model the Canavan brain at time of diagnosis. Administration of AAV/Olig001-GFP resulted in >70% oligotropism in all regions of interest except the cerebellum without the need for lineage-specific expression elements. Intracerebroventricular infusion into the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) was identified as the most appropriate route of administration and employed for delivery of an AAV/Olig001 vector to reconstitute oligodendroglial aspartoacylase (ASPA) in adult Canavan mice, which resulted in a dose-dependent rescue of ASPA activity, motor function, and a near-total reduction in vacuolation. A head-to-head efficacy comparison with astrogliotropic AAV9 highlighted a significant advantage conferred by oligotropic AAV/Olig001 that was independent of overall transduction efficiency. These results support the continued development of AAV/Olig001 for advancement to clinical application to white matter disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy S Francis
- Cell and Gene Therapy Center, Department of Cell Biology & Neuroscience, Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine, Stratford, NJ, USA
| | - Vladimir Markov
- Cell and Gene Therapy Center, Department of Cell Biology & Neuroscience, Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine, Stratford, NJ, USA
| | - Irenuez D Wojtas
- Cell and Gene Therapy Center, Department of Cell Biology & Neuroscience, Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine, Stratford, NJ, USA
| | - Steve Gray
- Department of Pediatrics, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Thomas McCown
- Gene Therapy Center, Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - R Jude Samulski
- Asklepios BioPharmaceutical, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Marciano Figueroa
- Cell and Gene Therapy Center, Department of Cell Biology & Neuroscience, Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine, Stratford, NJ, USA
| | - Paola Leone
- Cell and Gene Therapy Center, Department of Cell Biology & Neuroscience, Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine, Stratford, NJ, USA
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9
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Gernoux G, Gruntman AM, Blackwood M, Zieger M, Flotte TR, Mueller C. Muscle-Directed Delivery of an AAV1 Vector Leads to Capsid-Specific T Cell Exhaustion in Nonhuman Primates and Humans. Mol Ther 2020; 28:747-757. [PMID: 31982038 PMCID: PMC7054721 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2020.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Revised: 01/08/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
With the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and European Medicines Agency (EMA) approvals for Zolgensma, Luxturna, and Glybera, recombinant adeno-associated viruses (rAAVs) are considered efficient tools for gene transfer. However, studies in animals and humans demonstrate that intramuscular (IM) AAV delivery can trigger immune responses to AAV capsids and/or transgenes. IM delivery of rAAV1 in humans has also been described to induce tolerance to rAAV characterized by the presence of capsid-specific regulatory T cells (Tregs) in periphery. To understand mechanisms responsible for tolerance and parameters involved, we tested 3 muscle-directed administration routes in rhesus monkeys: IM delivery, venous limb perfusion, and the intra-arterial push and dwell method. These 3 methods were well tolerated and led to transgene expression. Interestingly, gene transfer in muscle led to Tregs and exhausted T cell infiltrates in situ at both day 21 and day 60 post-injection. In human samples, an in-depth analysis of the functionality of these cells demonstrates that capsid-specific exhausted T cells are detected after at least 5 years post-vector delivery and that the exhaustion can be reversed by blocking the checkpoint pathway. Overall, our study shows that persisting transgene expression after gene transfer in muscle is mediated by Tregs and exhausted T cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gwladys Gernoux
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Alisha M Gruntman
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA; Department of Clinical Sciences, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, N. Grafton, MA, USA
| | - Meghan Blackwood
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Marina Zieger
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Terence R Flotte
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Christian Mueller
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA.
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10
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Wilmott P, Lisowski L, Alexander IE, Logan GJ. A User's Guide to the Inverted Terminal Repeats of Adeno-Associated Virus. Hum Gene Ther Methods 2019; 30:206-213. [DOI: 10.1089/hgtb.2019.276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Wilmott
- Translational Vectorology Group, Children's Medical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Westmead, Australia
| | - Leszek Lisowski
- Translational Vectorology Group, Children's Medical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Westmead, Australia
- Military Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology, The Biological Threats Identification and Countermeasure Centre, Puławy, Poland
- Vector and Genome Engineering Facility; Children's Medical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Westmead, Australia
| | - Ian E. Alexander
- Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, University of Sydney, Westmead, Australia
- Gene Therapy Research Unit, Children's Medical Research Institute and Sydney Children's Hospitals Network, University of Sydney, Westmead, Australia
| | - Grant J. Logan
- Gene Therapy Research Unit, Children's Medical Research Institute and Sydney Children's Hospitals Network, University of Sydney, Westmead, Australia
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11
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Zhang Y, Long C, Bassel-Duby R, Olson EN. Myoediting: Toward Prevention of Muscular Dystrophy by Therapeutic Genome Editing. Physiol Rev 2018; 98:1205-1240. [PMID: 29717930 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00046.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Muscular dystrophies represent a large group of genetic disorders that significantly impair quality of life and often progress to premature death. There is no effective treatment for these debilitating diseases. Most therapies, developed to date, focus on alleviating the symptoms or targeting the secondary effects, while the underlying gene mutation is still present in the human genome. The discovery and application of programmable nucleases for site-specific DNA double-stranded breaks provides a powerful tool for precise genome engineering. In particular, the CRISPR/Cas system has revolutionized the genome editing field and is providing a new path for disease treatment by targeting the disease-causing genetic mutations. In this review, we provide a historical overview of genome-editing technologies, summarize the most recent advances, and discuss potential strategies and challenges for permanently correcting genetic mutations that cause muscular dystrophies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhang
- Department of Molecular Biology, Senator Paul D. Wellstone Muscular Dystrophy Cooperative Research Center and Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center , Dallas, Texas
| | - Chengzu Long
- Department of Molecular Biology, Senator Paul D. Wellstone Muscular Dystrophy Cooperative Research Center and Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center , Dallas, Texas
| | - Rhonda Bassel-Duby
- Department of Molecular Biology, Senator Paul D. Wellstone Muscular Dystrophy Cooperative Research Center and Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center , Dallas, Texas
| | - Eric N Olson
- Department of Molecular Biology, Senator Paul D. Wellstone Muscular Dystrophy Cooperative Research Center and Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center , Dallas, Texas
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12
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De BP, Chen A, Salami CO, Van de Graaf B, Rosenberg JB, Pagovich OE, Sondhi D, Crystal RG, Kaminsky SM. In Vivo Potency Assay for Adeno-Associated Virus-Based Gene Therapy Vectors Using AAVrh.10 as an Example. Hum Gene Ther Methods 2018; 29:146-155. [PMID: 29706115 DOI: 10.1089/hgtb.2017.246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The development of a drug product requires rigorous methods of characterization and quality control to assure drug potency. Gene therapy products, a relatively new strategy for drug design with very few licensed examples, represent a unique challenge for the measure of potency. Unlike traditional drugs, potency for a gene therapeutic is a tally of the measures of multiple steps, including infectivity, transcription, translation, protein modifications, proper localization of the protein product, and protein function. This is particularly challenging for products based on the adeno-associated virus (AAV) platform, which has poor in vitro infectivity, limiting the sensitivity and thus the usefulness of cell-based assays. A rigorous in vivo assay has been established that separately evaluates infection, transcription, and resulting protein levels with specifications for each based on real time polymerase chain reaction (DNA and RNA) and standard protein assays. For an acceptance criterion, an administered vector must have vector DNA, transgene mRNA, and transgene expressed protein each concurrently meet individual specifications or the production lot fails. Using the AAVrh.10 serotype as a model vector and three different transgenes as examples, the assay is based on intravenous administration of the vector to male mice. At 2 weeks, the harvested liver is homogenized and assessed for vector genome levels (to assess for vector delivery), mRNA (to assess vector infectivity and transcription), and protein in the liver or serum (to assess protein expression). For all AAV vectors, the assay is robust and reproducible: vector DNA (linearity 102-109 copies, coefficient of variation) intra-assay <0.8%, inter-assay <0.5%; mRNA intra-assay <3.3%, inter-assay <3.4%. The reproducibility of the assay for transgene expressed protein is product specific. This in vivo potency assay is a strategy for characterization and a quantitative lot release test, providing a path forward to meet regulatory drug requirements for any AAV gene therapy vectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bishnu P De
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College , New York, New York
| | - Alvin Chen
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College , New York, New York
| | - Christiana O Salami
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College , New York, New York
| | | | - Jonathan B Rosenberg
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College , New York, New York
| | - Odelya E Pagovich
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College , New York, New York
| | - Dolan Sondhi
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College , New York, New York
| | - Ronald G Crystal
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College , New York, New York
| | - Stephen M Kaminsky
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College , New York, New York
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13
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Bennett A, Patel S, Mietzsch M, Jose A, Lins-Austin B, Yu JC, Bothner B, McKenna R, Agbandje-McKenna M. Thermal Stability as a Determinant of AAV Serotype Identity. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2017; 6:171-182. [PMID: 28828392 PMCID: PMC5552060 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2017.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2017] [Accepted: 07/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Currently, there are over 150 ongoing clinical trials utilizing adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) to target various genetic diseases, including hemophilia (AAV2 and AAV8), congenital heart failure (AAV1 and AAV6), cystic fibrosis (AAV2), rheumatoid arthritis (AAV2), and Batten disease (AAVrh.10). Prior to patient administration, AAV vectors must have their serotype, concentration, purity, and stability confirmed. Here, we report the application of differential scanning fluorimetry (DSF) as a good manufacturing practice (GMP) capable of determining the melting temperature (Tm) for AAV serotype identification. This is a simple, rapid, cost effective, and robust method utilizing small amounts of purified AAV capsids (∼25 μL of ∼1011 particles). AAV1-9 and AAVrh.10 exhibit specific Tms in buffer formulations commonly used in clinical trials. Notably, AAV2 and AAV3, which are the least stable, have varied Tms, whereas AAV5, the most stable, has a narrow Tm range in the different buffers, respectively. Vector stability was dictated by VP3 only, specifically, the ratio of basic/acidic amino acids, and was independent of VP1 and VP2 content or the genome packaged. Furthermore, stability of recombinant AAVs differing by a single basic or acidic amino acid residue are distinguishable. Hence, AAV DSF profiles can serve as a robust method for serotype identification of clinical vectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonette Bennett
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Center for Structural Biology, The McKnight Brain Institute, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Saajan Patel
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Center for Structural Biology, The McKnight Brain Institute, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Mario Mietzsch
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Center for Structural Biology, The McKnight Brain Institute, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Ariana Jose
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Center for Structural Biology, The McKnight Brain Institute, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Bridget Lins-Austin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Center for Structural Biology, The McKnight Brain Institute, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Jennifer C. Yu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Center for Structural Biology, The McKnight Brain Institute, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Brian Bothner
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT 59715, USA
| | - Robert McKenna
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Center for Structural Biology, The McKnight Brain Institute, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Mavis Agbandje-McKenna
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Center for Structural Biology, The McKnight Brain Institute, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
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14
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de Solis CA, Hosek MP, Holehonnur R, Ho A, Banerjee A, Luong JA, Jones LE, Chaturvedi D, Ploski JE. Adeno-associated viral serotypes differentially transduce inhibitory neurons within the rat amygdala. Brain Res 2017; 1672:148-162. [PMID: 28764932 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2017.07.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2017] [Revised: 07/21/2017] [Accepted: 07/26/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Recombinant adeno-associated viruses (AAV) are frequently used to make localized genetic manipulations within the rodent brain. It is accepted that the different viral serotypes possess differing affinities for particular cell types, but it is not clear how these properties affect their ability to transduce specific neuronal cell sub-types. Here, we examined ten AAV serotypes for their ability to transduce neurons within the rat basal and lateral nuclei of the amygdala (BLA) and the central nucleus of the amygdala (CeA). AAV2 based viral genomes designed to express either green fluorescent protein (GFP) from a glutamate decarboxylase (GAD65) promoter or the far-red fluorescent protein (E2-Crimson) from a phosphate-activated glutaminase (PAG) promoter were created and pseudotyped as AAV2/1, AAV2/4, AAV2/5, AAV2/6, AAV2/7, AAV 2/8, AAV2/9, AAV2/rh10, AAV2/DJ and AAV2/DJ8. These viruses were infused into the BLA and CeA at equal titers and twenty-one days later tissue within the amygdala was examined for viral transduction efficiency. These serotypes transduced neurons with similar efficiency, except for AAV4 and AAV5, which exhibited significantly less efficient neuronal transduction. Notably, AAV4 and AAV5 possess the most divergent capsid protein sequences compared to the other commonly available serotypes. We found that the Gad65-GFP virus did not exclusively express GFP within inhibitory neurons, as assessed by fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH), but when this virus was used to transduce CeA neurons, the majority of the neurons that expressed GFP were in fact inhibitory neurons and this was likely due to the fact that this nucleus contains a very high percentage of inhibitory neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- C A de Solis
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences and the Department of Molecular & Cell Biology, The University of Texas at Dallas, United States
| | - M P Hosek
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences and the Department of Molecular & Cell Biology, The University of Texas at Dallas, United States
| | - R Holehonnur
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences and the Department of Molecular & Cell Biology, The University of Texas at Dallas, United States
| | - A Ho
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences and the Department of Molecular & Cell Biology, The University of Texas at Dallas, United States
| | - A Banerjee
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences and the Department of Molecular & Cell Biology, The University of Texas at Dallas, United States
| | - J A Luong
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences and the Department of Molecular & Cell Biology, The University of Texas at Dallas, United States
| | - L E Jones
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences and the Department of Molecular & Cell Biology, The University of Texas at Dallas, United States
| | - D Chaturvedi
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences and the Department of Molecular & Cell Biology, The University of Texas at Dallas, United States
| | - J E Ploski
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences and the Department of Molecular & Cell Biology, The University of Texas at Dallas, United States.
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15
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Dhungel B, Jayachandran A, Layton CJ, Steel JC. Seek and destroy: targeted adeno-associated viruses for gene delivery to hepatocellular carcinoma. Drug Deliv 2017; 24:289-299. [PMID: 28165834 PMCID: PMC8241004 DOI: 10.1080/10717544.2016.1247926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common form of primary liver cancer with high incidence globally. Increasing mortality and morbidity rates combined with limited treatment options available for advanced HCC press for novel and effective treatment modalities. Gene therapy represents one of the most promising therapeutic options. With the recent approval of herpes simplex virus for advanced melanoma, the field of gene therapy has received a major boost. Adeno-associated virus (AAV) is among the most widely used and effective viral vectors today with safety and efficacy demonstrated in a number of human clinical trials. This review identifies the obstacles for effective AAV based gene delivery to HCC which primarily include host immune responses and off-target effects. These drawbacks could be more pronounced for HCC because of the underlying liver dysfunction in most of the patients. We discuss approaches that could be adopted to tackle these shortcomings and manufacture HCC-targeted vectors. The combination of transductional targeting by modifying the vector capsid and transcriptional targeting using HCC-specific promoters has the potential to produce vectors which can specifically seek HCC and deliver therapeutic gene without significant side effects. Finally, the identification of novel HCC-specific ligands and promoters should facilitate and expedite this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bijay Dhungel
- a Gallipoli Medical Research Institute, Greenslopes Private Hospital , Brisbane , QLD , Australia.,b School of Medicine, The University of Queensland , Brisbane , QLD , Australia.,c University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, Translational Research Institute , Woolloongabba , QLD , Australia , and
| | - Aparna Jayachandran
- a Gallipoli Medical Research Institute, Greenslopes Private Hospital , Brisbane , QLD , Australia.,b School of Medicine, The University of Queensland , Brisbane , QLD , Australia
| | - Christopher J Layton
- b School of Medicine, The University of Queensland , Brisbane , QLD , Australia.,d Ophthalmology Department, Gallipoli Medical Research Institute, Greenslopes Private Hospital , Brisbane , QLD , Australia
| | - Jason C Steel
- a Gallipoli Medical Research Institute, Greenslopes Private Hospital , Brisbane , QLD , Australia.,b School of Medicine, The University of Queensland , Brisbane , QLD , Australia
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16
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AAV-mediated Sirt1 overexpression in skeletal muscle activates oxidative capacity but does not prevent insulin resistance. MOLECULAR THERAPY-METHODS & CLINICAL DEVELOPMENT 2016; 5:16072. [PMID: 27909699 PMCID: PMC5111573 DOI: 10.1038/mtm.2016.72] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2016] [Revised: 09/15/2016] [Accepted: 09/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Type 2 diabetes is characterized by triglyceride accumulation and reduced lipid oxidation capacity in skeletal muscle. SIRT1 is a key protein in the regulation of lipid oxidation and its expression is reduced in the skeletal muscle of insulin resistant mice. In this tissue, Sirt1 up-regulates the expression of genes involved in oxidative metabolism and improves mitochondrial function mainly through PPARGC1 deacetylation. Here we examined whether Sirt1 overexpression mediated by adeno-associated viral vectors of serotype 1 (AAV1) specifically in skeletal muscle can counteract the development of insulin resistance induced by a high fat diet in mice. AAV1-Sirt1-treated mice showed up-regulated expression of key genes related to β-oxidation together with increased levels of phosphorylated AMP protein kinase. Moreover, SIRT1 overexpression in skeletal muscle also increased basal phosphorylated levels of AKT. However, AAV1-Sirt1 treatment was not enough to prevent high fat diet-induced obesity and insulin resistance. Although Sirt1 gene transfer to skeletal muscle induced changes at the muscular level related with lipid and glucose homeostasis, our data indicate that overexpression of SIRT1 in skeletal muscle is not enough to improve whole-body insulin resistance and that suggests that SIRT1 has to be increased in other metabolic tissues to prevent insulin resistance.
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Abstract
Here we review the recent literature on Hemophilia gene transfer/therapy. Gene therapy is one of several new technologies being developed as a treatment for bleeding disorders. We will discuss current and pending clinical efforts and attempt to relate how the field is trending. In doing so, we will focus on the use of recombinant Adeno-associated viral (rAAV) vector-mediated gene transfer since all currently active trials are using this vector. Recent exciting results embody nearly 20 years of preclinical and translational research. After several early clinical attempts, therapeutic factor levels that can now be achieved reflect several modifications of the original vectors. Patterns of results are slowly starting to emerge as different AAV vectors are being tested. As with any new technology, there are drawbacks, and the potential for immune/inflammatory and oncogenic risks have emerged and will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Ward
- a Tisch Cancer Institute , Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave Levy Place , New York City , NY , USA
| | - Christopher E Walsh
- a Tisch Cancer Institute , Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave Levy Place , New York City , NY , USA
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18
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Characterization of the Adeno-Associated Virus 1 and 6 Sialic Acid Binding Site. J Virol 2016; 90:5219-5230. [PMID: 26962225 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.00161-16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2016] [Accepted: 03/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED The adeno-associated viruses (AAVs), which are being developed as gene delivery vectors, display differential cell surface glycan binding and subsequent tissue tropisms. For AAV serotype 1 (AAV1), the first viral vector approved as a gene therapy treatment, and its closely related AAV6, sialic acid (SIA) serves as their primary cellular surface receptor. Toward characterizing the SIA binding site(s), the structure of the AAV1-SIA complex was determined by X-ray crystallography to 3.0 Å. Density consistent with SIA was observed in a pocket located at the base of capsid protrusions surrounding icosahedral 3-fold axes. Site-directed mutagenesis substitution of the amino acids forming this pocket with structurally equivalent residues from AAV2, a heparan sulfate binding serotype, followed by cell binding and transduction assays, further mapped the critical residues conferring SIA binding to AAV1 and AAV6. For both viruses five of the six binding pocket residues mutated (N447S, V473D, N500E, T502S, and W503A) abolished SIA binding, whereas S472R increased binding. All six mutations abolished or decreased transduction by at least 50% in AAV1. Surprisingly, the T502S substitution did not affect transduction efficiency of wild-type AAV6. Furthermore, three of the AAV1 SIA binding site mutants-S472R, V473D, and N500E-escaped recognition by the anti-AAV1 capsid antibody ADK1a. These observations demonstrate that common key capsid surface residues dictate both virus binding and entry processes, as well as antigenic reactivity. This study identifies an important functional capsid surface "hot spot" dictating receptor attachment, transduction efficiency, and antigenicity which could prove useful for vector engineering. IMPORTANCE The adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector gene delivery system has shown promise in several clinical trials and an AAV1-based vector has been approved as the first gene therapy treatment. However, limitations still exist with respect to transduction efficiency and the detrimental effects of preexisting host antibodies. This study aimed to identify key capsid regions which can be engineered to overcome these limitations. A sialic glycan receptor recognition pocket was identified in AAV1 and its closely related AAV6, using X-ray crystallography. The site was confirmed by mutagenesis followed by cell binding and transduction assays. Significantly, residues controlling gene expression efficiency, as well as antibody escape variants, were also identified. This study thus provides, at the amino acid level, information for rational structural engineering of AAV vectors with improved therapeutic efficacy.
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19
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Ultracentrifugation-free chromatography-mediated large-scale purification of recombinant adeno-associated virus serotype 1 (rAAV1). MOLECULAR THERAPY-METHODS & CLINICAL DEVELOPMENT 2016; 3:15058. [PMID: 26913289 PMCID: PMC4748944 DOI: 10.1038/mtm.2015.58] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2015] [Revised: 12/02/2015] [Accepted: 12/02/2015] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) is an attractive tool for gene transfer and shows potential for use in human gene therapies. The current methods for the production and purification of rAAV from the transfected cell lysate are mainly based on cesium chloride and iodixanol density ultracentrifugation, although those are not scalable. Meanwhile, chromatography-based systems are more scalable. Therefore, in this study, we developed a novel method for the production and purification of rAAV serotype 1 (rAAV1) from serum-free culture supernatant based on ion-exchange and gel-filtration chromatography to obtain highly purified products with an ultracentrifugation-free technique towards Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) production. The purified rAAV1 displayed three clear and sharp bands (VP1, VP2, and VP3) following sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, and more than 90% of rAAV1 particles contained fully packaged viral genomes according to negative-stain electron micrographic analysis. Consequently, the resultant genomic titer of the purified rAAV1 was 3.63 × 10(13) v.g./ml (the total titer was 4.17 × 10(13) v.g.) from the 4 × 10(9) HEK293 cells. This novel chromatography-based method will facilitate scale-up of manufacturing for clinical applications in gene therapy.
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20
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Li C, Wu S, Albright B, Hirsch M, Li W, Tseng YS, Agbandje-McKenna M, McPhee S, Asokan A, Samulski RJ. Development of Patient-specific AAV Vectors After Neutralizing Antibody Selection for Enhanced Muscle Gene Transfer. Mol Ther 2016; 24:53-65. [PMID: 26220272 PMCID: PMC4754536 DOI: 10.1038/mt.2015.134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2015] [Accepted: 07/18/2015] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
A major hindrance in gene therapy trials with adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors is the presence of neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) that inhibit AAV transduction. In this study, we used directed evolution techniques in vitro and in mouse muscle to select novel NAb escape AAV chimeric capsid mutants in the presence of individual patient serum. AAV mutants isolated in vitro escaped broad patient-specific NAb activity but had poor transduction ability in vivo. AAV mutants isolated in vivo had enhanced NAb evasion from cognate serum and had high muscle transduction ability. More importantly, structural modeling identified a 100 amino acid motif from AAV6 in variable region (VR) III that confers this enhanced muscle tropism. In addition, a predominantly AAV8 capsid beta barrel template with a specific preference for AAV1/AAV9 in VR VII located at threefold symmetry axis facilitates NAb escape. Our data strongly support that chimeric AAV capsids composed of modular and nonoverlapping domains from various serotypes are capable of evading patient-specific NAbs and have enhanced muscle transduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengwen Li
- Gene Therapy Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Shuqing Wu
- Gene Therapy Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- China National Academy of Nanotechnology & Engineering, Tianjin, China
| | - Blake Albright
- Gene Therapy Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Matthew Hirsch
- Gene Therapy Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Wuping Li
- Institute of Pathogen Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yu-Shan Tseng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Center for Structural Biology, McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Mavis Agbandje-McKenna
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Center for Structural Biology, McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Scott McPhee
- Asklepios BioPharmaceutical Inc., Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Aravind Asokan
- Gene Therapy Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Genetics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - R Jude Samulski
- Gene Therapy Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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21
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To discuss recent progress in the use of vectors to produce antibodies in vivo as an alternative form of HIV prophylaxis or therapy. Instead of passive transfer of monoclonal antibody proteins, a transgene encoding an antibody is delivered to cells by the vector, resulting in expression and secretion by the host cell. This review will emphasize adeno-associated virus (AAV)-based strategies and summarize the evidence in support of this strategy as an alternative to traditional vaccines. We will highlight the major findings in the field and discuss the impact that this approach could have on the prevention, treatment and possibly eradication of HIV in patients. RECENT FINDINGS In this emerging field, the emphasis has been on the use of vectors delivering antibodies as an alternative to the development of an HIV vaccine. However, recent findings suggest that AAV-delivered broadly neutralizing antibodies can suppress HIV replication. As such, a single injection of AAV could mediate long-term antibody expression to act as a long-lived therapeutic in the absence of antiretroviral drugs. SUMMARY Vector-mediated antibody expression can both prevent transmission and inhibit the replication of established HIV infections. As such, it offers an alternative to immunogen-based vaccine design and a novel therapeutic intervention by enabling precise manipulation of humoral immunity. Success may enable not only the development of effective prevention against HIV but may also provide an alternative to a lifetime of antiretroviral drugs taken by those who are already infected.
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22
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Chen H. Adeno-associated virus vectors for human gene therapy. World J Med Genet 2015; 5:28-45. [DOI: 10.5496/wjmg.v5.i3.28] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2015] [Revised: 04/08/2015] [Accepted: 05/18/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV) is a small, non-enveloped virus that contains a single-stranded DNA genome. It was the first gene therapy drug approved in the Western world in November 2012 to treat patients with lipoprotein lipase deficiency. AAV made history and put human gene therapy in the forefront again. More than four decades of research on AAV vector biology and human gene therapy has generated a huge amount of valuable information. Over 100 AAV serotypes and variants have been isolated and at least partially characterized. A number of them have been used for preclinical studies in a variety of animal models. Several AAV vector production platforms, especially the baculovirus-based system have been established for commercial-scale AAV vector production. AAV purification technologies such as density gradient centrifugation, column chromatography, or a combination, have been well developed. More than 117 clinical trials have been conducted with AAV vectors. Although there are still challenges down the road, such as cross-species variation in vector tissue tropism and gene transfer efficiency, pre-existing humoral immunity to AAV capsids and vector dose-dependent toxicity in patients, the gene therapy community is forging ahead with cautious optimism. In this review I will focus on the properties and applications of commonly used AAV serotypes and variants, and the technologies for AAV vector production and purification. I will also discuss the advancement of several promising gene therapy clinical trials.
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23
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Deal CE, Balazs AB. Engineering humoral immunity as prophylaxis or therapy. Curr Opin Immunol 2015; 35:113-22. [PMID: 26183209 DOI: 10.1016/j.coi.2015.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2015] [Accepted: 06/24/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF THE REVIEW In this review, we will discuss the field of engineered humoral immunity with an emphasis on recent work using viral vectors to produce antibodies in vivo. As an alternative to passive transfer of monoclonal antibody protein, a transgene encoding an antibody is delivered to cells via vector transduction, resulting in expression and secretion by the host cell. This review will summarize the evidence in support of this strategy as an alternative to traditional vaccines against infection and as novel therapeutics for a variety of diseases. RECENT FINDINGS Historically, humoral immunity has been engineered through vaccination and passive transfer of monoclonal antibodies. However, recent work suggests that vectors can be used to deliver transgenes encoding broadly neutralizing antibodies to non-hematopoietic tissues and can mediate long-term expression that is capable of preventing or treating infectious diseases. The production of engineered monoclonal antibodies allows for precise targeting and elimination of aberrant self-proteins that are characteristic of certain neurodegenerative disease. This approach has also been successfully used to combat cancer and addiction in several animal models. Despite the wide array of expression platforms that have been described, adeno-associated virus vectors have emerged as the frontrunner for rapid clinical translation. SUMMARY Recent advances in vector-mediated antibody expression have demonstrated the potential for such interventions to prevent infection and treat disease. As such, it offers an alternative to immunogen-based vaccine design and a novel therapeutic intervention by enabling precise manipulation of humoral immunity. Success translating these approaches to patients may enable the development of effective prevention against previously intractable pathogens that evade immunity such as HIV, influenza, malaria or HCV and may also enable new treatment options for neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cailin E Deal
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT & Harvard, 400 Technology Sq., Cambridge, MA 02139, United States
| | - Alejandro B Balazs
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT & Harvard, 400 Technology Sq., Cambridge, MA 02139, United States.
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24
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Beavers KR, Nelson CE, Duvall CL. MiRNA inhibition in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2015; 88:123-37. [PMID: 25553957 PMCID: PMC4485980 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2014.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2014] [Revised: 11/25/2014] [Accepted: 12/20/2014] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are noncoding RNAs that provide an endogenous negative feedback mechanism for translation of messenger RNA (mRNA) into protein. Single miRNAs can regulate hundreds of mRNAs, enabling miRNAs to orchestrate robust biological responses by simultaneously impacting multiple gene networks. MiRNAs can act as master regulators of normal and pathological tissue development, homeostasis, and repair, which has motivated expanding efforts toward the development of technologies for therapeutically modulating miRNA activity for regenerative medicine and tissue engineering applications. This review highlights the tools currently available for miRNA inhibition and their recent therapeutic applications for improving tissue repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelsey R Beavers
- Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Materials Science, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37235, USA
| | | | - Craig L Duvall
- Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Materials Science, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37235, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37235, USA.
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25
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Gruntman AM, Flotte TR. Progress with Recombinant Adeno-Associated Virus Vectors for Gene Therapy of Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency. Hum Gene Ther Methods 2015; 26:77-81. [PMID: 26067712 PMCID: PMC4559188 DOI: 10.1089/hgtb.2015.086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2015] [Accepted: 06/11/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The pathway to a clinical gene therapy product often involves many changes of course and strategy before obtaining successful results. Here we outline the methodologies, both clinical and preclinical, that went into developing a gene therapy approach to the treatment of alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency lung disease using muscle-targeted recombinant adeno-associated virus. From initial gene construct development in mouse models through multiple rounds of safety and biodistribution studies in rodents, rabbits, and nonhuman primates to ultimate human trials, this review seeks to provide insight into what clinical translation entails and could thereby inform the process for future investigators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alisha M. Gruntman
- Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01655
| | - Terence R. Flotte
- Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01655
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01655
- Microbiology & Physiologic Systems, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01655
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26
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Byrne PIBJ, Collins S, Mah CC, Smith B, Conlon T, Martin SD, Corti M, Cleaver B, Islam S, Lawson LA. Phase I/II trial of diaphragm delivery of recombinant adeno-associated virus acid alpha-glucosidase (rAAaV1-CMV-GAA) gene vector in patients with Pompe disease. HUM GENE THER CL DEV 2015; 25:134-63. [PMID: 25238277 DOI: 10.1089/humc.2014.2514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
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27
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Philippi S, Lorain S, Beley C, Peccate C, Précigout G, Spuler S, Garcia L. Dysferlin rescue by spliceosome-mediated pre-mRNA trans-splicing targeting introns harbouring weakly defined 3' splice sites. Hum Mol Genet 2015; 24:4049-60. [PMID: 25904108 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddv141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2015] [Accepted: 04/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The modification of the pre-mRNA cis-splicing process employing a pre-mRNA trans-splicing molecule (PTM) is an attractive strategy for the in situ correction of genes whose careful transcription regulation and full-length expression is determinative for protein function, as it is the case for the dysferlin (DYSF, Dysf) gene. Loss-of-function mutations of DYSF result in different types of muscular dystrophy mainly manifesting as limb girdle muscular dystrophy 2B (LGMD2B) and Miyoshi muscular dystrophy 1 (MMD1). We established a 3' replacement strategy for mutated DYSF pre-mRNAs induced by spliceosome-mediated pre-mRNA trans-splicing (SmaRT) by the use of a PTM. In contrast to previously established SmaRT strategies, we particularly focused on the identification of a suitable pre-mRNA target intron other than the optimization of the PTM design. By targeting DYSF pre-mRNA introns harbouring differentially defined 3' splice sites (3' SS), we found that target introns encoding weakly defined 3' SSs were trans-spliced successfully in vitro in human LGMD2B myoblasts as well as in vivo in skeletal muscle of wild-type and Dysf(-/-) mice. For the first time, we demonstrate rescue of Dysf protein by SmaRT in vivo. Moreover, we identified concordant qualities among the successfully targeted Dysf introns and targeted endogenous introns in previously reported SmaRT approaches that might facilitate a selective choice of target introns in future SmaRT strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Philippi
- Université de Versailles St-Quentin, INSERM U1179, LIA BAHN Centre Scientifique de Monaco, 2 Avenue de la Source de la Bievre, Montigny-le-Bretonneux 78180, France, Muscle Research Unit, Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a Joint Cooperation Between Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine and Charité Medical Faculty, Berlin, Germany and Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, INSERM UMRS974, CNRS FRE3617, Myology Research Center, Paris, France
| | - Stéphanie Lorain
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, INSERM UMRS974, CNRS FRE3617, Myology Research Center, Paris, France
| | - Cyriaque Beley
- Université de Versailles St-Quentin, INSERM U1179, LIA BAHN Centre Scientifique de Monaco, 2 Avenue de la Source de la Bievre, Montigny-le-Bretonneux 78180, France
| | - Cécile Peccate
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, INSERM UMRS974, CNRS FRE3617, Myology Research Center, Paris, France
| | - Guillaume Précigout
- Université de Versailles St-Quentin, INSERM U1179, LIA BAHN Centre Scientifique de Monaco, 2 Avenue de la Source de la Bievre, Montigny-le-Bretonneux 78180, France
| | - Simone Spuler
- Muscle Research Unit, Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a Joint Cooperation Between Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine and Charité Medical Faculty, Berlin, Germany and
| | - Luis Garcia
- Université de Versailles St-Quentin, INSERM U1179, LIA BAHN Centre Scientifique de Monaco, 2 Avenue de la Source de la Bievre, Montigny-le-Bretonneux 78180, France,
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Hastie E, Samulski RJ. Adeno-associated virus at 50: a golden anniversary of discovery, research, and gene therapy success--a personal perspective. Hum Gene Ther 2015; 26:257-65. [PMID: 25807962 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2015.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 169] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Fifty years after the discovery of adeno-associated virus (AAV) and more than 30 years after the first gene transfer experiment was conducted, dozens of gene therapy clinical trials are in progress, one vector is approved for use in Europe, and breakthroughs in virus modification and disease modeling are paving the way for a revolution in the treatment of rare diseases, cancer, as well as HIV. This review will provide a historical perspective on the progression of AAV for gene therapy from discovery to the clinic, focusing on contributions from the Samulski lab regarding basic science and cloning of AAV, optimized large-scale production of vectors, preclinical large animal studies and safety data, vector modifications for improved efficacy, and successful clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Hastie
- 1Gene Therapy Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7352
| | - R Jude Samulski
- 1Gene Therapy Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7352.,2Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7352
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29
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Alexander IE, Russell DW. The Potential of AAV-Mediated Gene Targeting for Gene and Cell Therapy Applications. CURRENT STEM CELL REPORTS 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/s40778-014-0001-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Qu W, Wang M, Wu Y, Xu R. Scalable downstream strategies for purification of recombinant adeno- associated virus vectors in light of the properties. Curr Pharm Biotechnol 2015; 16:684-95. [PMID: 25941887 PMCID: PMC5388796 DOI: 10.2174/1389201016666150505122228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2014] [Revised: 12/30/2014] [Accepted: 04/06/2015] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) vector is one of the promising delivery tools for gene therapy. Currently, hundreds of clinical trials are performed but the major barrier for clinical application is the absence of any ideal large scale production technique to obtain sufficient and highly pure rAAV vector. The large scale production technique includes upstream and downstream processing. The upstream processing is a vector package step and the downstream processing is a vector purification step. For large scale downstream processing, the scientists need to recover rAAV from dozens of liters of cell lysate or medium, and a variety of purification strategies have been developed but not comprehensively compared till now. Consequently, this review will evaluate the scalable downstream purification strategies systematically, especially those based on the physicochemical properties of AAV virus, and attempt to find better scalable downstream strategies for rAAV vectors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mingxi Wang
- Yunleung Laboratory of Molecular Diagnostics, School of Medicine and Institute of Molecular Medicine, Huaqiao University, Quanzhou 362021, China.
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Weinberg MS, Nicolson S, Bhatt AP, McLendon M, Li C, Samulski RJ. Recombinant adeno-associated virus utilizes cell-specific infectious entry mechanisms. J Virol 2014; 88:12472-84. [PMID: 25142580 PMCID: PMC4248914 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.01971-14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2014] [Accepted: 08/07/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED Understanding the entry and trafficking mechanism(s) of recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) into host cells can lead to evolution in capsid and vector design and delivery methods, resulting in enhanced transduction and therapeutic gene expression. Variability of findings regarding the early entry pathway of rAAV supports the possibility that rAAV, like other viruses, can utilize more than one infectious entry pathway. We tested whether inhibition of macropinocytosis impacted rAAV transduction of HeLa cells compared to hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines. We found that macropinocytosis inhibitor cytochalasin D blocked rAAV transduction of HeLa cells (>2-fold) but enhanced (10-fold) transduction in HepG2 and Huh7 lines. Similar results were obtained with another macropinocytosis inhibitor, 5-(N-ethyl-N-isopropyl) amiloride (EIPA). The augmented transduction was due to neither viral binding nor promoter activity, affected multiple rAAV serotypes (rAAV2, rAAV2-R585E, and rAAV8), and influenced single-stranded and self-complementary virions to comparable extents. Follow-up studies using CDC42 inhibitor ML141 and p21-activated kinase 1 (PAK1) siRNA knockdown also resulted in enhanced HepG2 transduction. Microscopy revealed that macropinocytosis inhibition correlated with expedited nuclear entry of the rAAV virions into HepG2 cells. Enhancement of hepatocellular rAAV transduction extended to the mouse liver in vivo (4-fold enhancement) but inversely blocked heart tissue transduction (13-fold). This evidence of host cell-specific rAAV entry pathways confers a potent means for controlling and enhancing vector delivery and could help unify the divergent accounts of rAAV cellular entry mechanisms. IMPORTANCE There is a recognized need for improved rAAV vector targeting strategies that result in delivery of fewer total particles, averting untoward toxicity and/or an immune response against the vector. A critical step in rAAV transduction is entry and early trafficking through the host cellular machinery, the mechanisms of which are under continued study. However, should the early entry and trafficking mechanisms of rAAV differ across virus serotype or be dependent on host cell environment, this could expand our ability to target particular cells and tissue for selective transduction. Thus, the observation that inhibiting macropinocytosis leads to cell-specific enhancement or inhibition of rAAV transduction that extends to the organismic level exposes a new means of modulating vector targeting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc S Weinberg
- Gene Therapy Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Sarah Nicolson
- Gene Therapy Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Aadra P Bhatt
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Michael McLendon
- Gene Therapy Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Chengwen Li
- Gene Therapy Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - R Jude Samulski
- Gene Therapy Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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Birth of a new therapeutic platform: 47 years of adeno-associated virus biology from virus discovery to licensed gene therapy. Mol Ther 2014; 21:1976-81. [PMID: 24201212 DOI: 10.1038/mt.2013.226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
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Gubrij IB, Martin SR, Pangle AK, Kurten R, Johnson LG. Attenuation of monocrotaline-induced pulmonary hypertension by luminal adeno-associated virus serotype 9 gene transfer of prostacyclin synthase. Hum Gene Ther 2014; 25:498-505. [PMID: 24512101 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2013.187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension (iPAH) is associated with high morbidity and mortality. We evaluated whether luminal delivery of the human prostacyclin synthase (hPGIS) cDNA with adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors could attenuate PAH. AAV serotype 5 (AAV5) and AAV9 vectors containing the hPGIS cDNA under the control of a cytomegalovirus-enhanced chicken β-actin (CB) promoter or vehicle (saline) were instilled into lungs of rats. Two days later, rats were injected with monocrotaline (MCT, 60 mg/kg) or saline. Biochemical, hemodynamic, and morphologic assessments were performed when the rats developed symptoms (3-4 weeks) or at 6 weeks. Luminal (airway) administration of AAV5 and AAV9CBhPGIS vectors (MCT-AAV5 and MCT-AAV9 rats) significantly increased plasma levels of 6-keto-PGF1(α) as compared with MCT-controls, and closely resembled levels measured in rats not treated with MCT (saline-saline). Right ventricular (RV)/left ventricular (LV)+septum (S) ratios and RV systolic pressure (RVSP) were greater in MCT-control rats than in saline-saline rats, whereas the ratios and RVSP in MCT-AAV5CBhPGIS and MCT-AAV9CBhPGIS rats were similar to saline-saline rats. Thickening of the muscular media of small pulmonary arteries of MCT-control rats was detected in histological sections, whereas the thickness of the muscular media in MCT-AAV5CBhPGIS and MCT-AAV9CBhPGIS rats was similar to saline-saline controls. In experiments with different promoters, a trend toward increased levels of PGF1(α) expression was detected in lung homogenates, but not plasma, of MCT-treated rats transduced with an AAV9-hPGIS vector containing a CB promoter. This correlated with significant reductions in the RV/LV+S ratio and RVSP in MCT-AAV9CBhPGIS rats that resembled levels in saline-saline rats. No changes in levels of PGF1(α), RV/LV+S, or RVSP were detected in rats transduced with AAV9-hPGIS vectors containing a modified CB promoter (CB7) or a distal epithelial cell-specific promoter (CC10). Thus, AAV9CBhPGIS vectors prevented development of MCT-induced PAH and associated pulmonary vascular remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Igor B Gubrij
- 1 Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, Department of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences , Little Rock, AR 72205
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Holehonnur R, Luong JA, Chaturvedi D, Ho A, Lella SK, Hosek MP, Ploski JE. Adeno-associated viral serotypes produce differing titers and differentially transduce neurons within the rat basal and lateral amygdala. BMC Neurosci 2014; 15:28. [PMID: 24533621 PMCID: PMC3937004 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2202-15-28] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2013] [Accepted: 02/11/2014] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In recent years, there has been an increased interest in using recombinant adeno-associated viruses (AAV) to make localized genetic manipulations within the rodent brain. Differing serotypes of AAV possess divergent capsid protein sequences and these variations greatly influence each serotype's ability to transduce particular cell types and brain regions. We therefore aimed to determine the AAV serotype that is optimal for targeting neurons within the Basal and Lateral Amygdala (BLA) since the transduction efficiency of AAV has not been previously examined within the BLA. This region is desirable to genetically manipulate due to its role in emotion, learning & memory, and numerous psychiatric disorders. We accomplished this by screening 9 different AAV serotypes (AAV2/1, AAV2/2, AAV2/5, AAV2/7, AAV2/8, AAV2/9, AAV2/rh10, AAV2/DJ and AAV2/DJ8) designed to express red fluorescent protein (RFP) under the regulation of an alpha Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II promoter (αCaMKII). RESULTS We determined that these serotypes produce differing amounts of virus under standard laboratory production. Notably AAV2/2 consistently produced the lowest titers compared to the other serotypes examined. These nine serotypes were bilaterally infused into the rat BLA at the highest titers achieved for each serotype and at a normalized titer of 7.8E + 11 GC/ml. Twenty one days following viral infusion the degree of transduction was quantitated throughout the amygdala. These viruses exhibited differential transduction of neurons within the BLA. AAV2/7 exhibited a trend toward having the highest efficiency of transduction and AAV2/5 exhibited significantly lower transduction efficiency as compared to the serotypes examined. AAV2/5's decreased ability to transduce BLA neurons correlates with its significantly different capsid protein sequences as compared to the other serotypes examined. CONCLUSIONS For laboratories producing their own recombinant adeno-associated viruses, the use of AAV2/2 is likely less desirable since AAV2/2 produces significantly lower titers than many other serotypes of AAV. Numerous AAV serotypes appear to efficiently transduce BLA neurons, with the exception of AAV2/5. Taking into consideration the ability of certain serotypes to achieve high titers and transduce BLA neurons well, in our hands AAV2/DJ8 and AAV2/9 appear to be ideal serotypes to use when targeting neurons within the BLA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roopashri Holehonnur
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences and the Department of Molecular & Cell Biology, University of Texas at Dallas, 800 West Campbell RD, Richardson, TX 75080, USA
| | - Jonathan A Luong
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences and the Department of Molecular & Cell Biology, University of Texas at Dallas, 800 West Campbell RD, Richardson, TX 75080, USA
| | - Dushyant Chaturvedi
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences and the Department of Molecular & Cell Biology, University of Texas at Dallas, 800 West Campbell RD, Richardson, TX 75080, USA
| | - Anthony Ho
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences and the Department of Molecular & Cell Biology, University of Texas at Dallas, 800 West Campbell RD, Richardson, TX 75080, USA
| | - Srihari K Lella
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences and the Department of Molecular & Cell Biology, University of Texas at Dallas, 800 West Campbell RD, Richardson, TX 75080, USA
| | - Matthew P Hosek
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences and the Department of Molecular & Cell Biology, University of Texas at Dallas, 800 West Campbell RD, Richardson, TX 75080, USA
| | - Jonathan E Ploski
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences and the Department of Molecular & Cell Biology, University of Texas at Dallas, 800 West Campbell RD, Richardson, TX 75080, USA
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Braun-Falco M, Rödl D. Recombinant adeno-associated virus vectors for somatic gene therapy in dermatology. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014. [DOI: 10.1586/17469872.2.2.167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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36
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Arnett AL, Konieczny P, Ramos JN, Hall J, Odom G, Yablonka-Reuveni Z, Chamberlain JR, Chamberlain JS. Adeno-associated viral (AAV) vectors do not efficiently target muscle satellite cells. MOLECULAR THERAPY-METHODS & CLINICAL DEVELOPMENT 2014; 1:S2329-0501(16)30105-X. [PMID: 25580445 PMCID: PMC4288464 DOI: 10.1038/mtm.2014.38] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Adeno-associated viral (AAV) vectors are becoming an important tool for gene therapy of numerous genetic and other disorders. Several recombinant AAV vectors (rAAV) have the ability to transduce striated muscles in a variety of animals following intramuscular and intravascular administration, and have attracted widespread interest for therapy of muscle disorders such as the muscular dystrophies. However, most studies have focused on the ability to transduce mature muscle cells, and have not examined the ability to target myogenic stem cells such as skeletal muscle satellite cells. Here we examined the relative ability of rAAV vectors derived from AAV6 to target myoblasts, myocytes, and myotubes in culture and satellite cells and myofibers in vivo. AAV vectors are able to transduce proliferating myoblasts in culture, albeit with reduced efficiency relative to postmitotic myocytes and myotubes. In contrast, quiescent satellite cells are refractory to transduction in adult mice. These results suggest that while muscle disorders characterized by myofiber regeneration can be slowed or halted by AAV transduction, little if any vector transduction can be obtained in myogenic stems cells that might other wise support ongoing muscle regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Lh Arnett
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA ; Department of Neurology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA ; Molecular and Cellular Biology Program, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Patryk Konieczny
- Department of Neurology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Julian N Ramos
- Department of Neurology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA ; Molecular and Cellular Biology Program, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - John Hall
- Department of Neurology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Guy Odom
- Department of Neurology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Zipora Yablonka-Reuveni
- Department of Biological Structure, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Joel R Chamberlain
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jeffrey S Chamberlain
- Department of Neurology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA ; Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
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Abstract
Icosahedral viral capsids are obligated to perform a thermodynamic balancing act. Capsids must be stable enough to protect the genome until a suitable host cell is encountered yet be poised to bind receptor, initiate cell entry, navigate the cellular milieu, and release their genome in the appropriate replication compartment. In this study, serotypes of adeno-associated virus (AAV), AAV1, AAV2, AAV5, and AAV8, were compared with respect to the physical properties of their capsids that influence thermodynamic stability. Thermal stability measurements using differential scanning fluorimetry, differential scanning calorimetry, and electron microscopy showed that capsid melting temperatures differed by more than 20°C between the least and most stable serotypes, AAV2 and AAV5, respectively. Limited proteolysis and peptide mass mapping of intact particles were used to investigate capsid protein dynamics. Active hot spots mapped to the region surrounding the 3-fold axis of symmetry for all serotypes. Cleavages also mapped to the unique region of VP1 which contains a phospholipase domain, indicating transient exposure on the surface of the capsid. Data on the biophysical properties of the different AAV serotypes are important for understanding cellular trafficking and is critical to their production, storage, and use for gene therapy. The distinct differences reported here provide direction for future studies on entry and vector production.
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Takahashi K, Mizukami H, Saga Y, Takei Y, Urabe M, Kume A, Machida S, Fujiwara H, Suzuki M, Ozawa K. Suppression of lymph node and lung metastases of endometrial cancer by muscle-mediated expression of soluble vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-3. Cancer Sci 2013; 104:1107-11. [PMID: 23614535 DOI: 10.1111/cas.12184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2013] [Revised: 04/16/2013] [Accepted: 04/17/2013] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Lymph node metastasis is the most important prognostic factor of endometrial cancer. However, effective therapy has not been established against lymph node metastasis. In this study, we explored the efficacy of gene therapy targeting lymph node metastasis of endometrial cancer by suppressing the action of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-C through soluble VEGF receptor-3 (sVEGFR-3) expression. For this purpose, we first conducted a model experiment by introducing sVEGFR-3 cDNA into an endometrial cancer cell line HEC1A and established HEC1A/sVEGFR-3 cell line with high sVEGFR-3 expression. The conditioned medium of HEC1A/sVEGFR-3 cells inhibited lymphatic endothelial cell growth in vitro, and sVEGFR-3 expression in HEC1A cells suppressed in vivo lymph node and lung metastases without inhibiting the growth of a subcutaneously inoculated tumor. To validate the therapeutic efficacy, adeno-associated virus vectors encoding sVEGFR-3 were injected into the skeletal muscle of mice with lymph node metastasis. Lymph node and lung metastases of HEC1A cells were completely suppressed by the muscle-mediated expression of sVEGFR-3 using adeno-associated virus vectors. These results suggest the possibility of gene therapy against lymph node and lung metastases of endometrial cancer by using muscle-mediated expression of sVEGFR-3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayoko Takahashi
- Division of Genetics Therapeutics, Center for Molecular Medicine, Shimotsuke, Japan
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Arnett ALH, Beutler LR, Quintana A, Allen J, Finn E, Palmiter RD, Chamberlain JS. Heparin-binding correlates with increased efficiency of AAV1- and AAV6-mediated transduction of striated muscle, but negatively impacts CNS transduction. Gene Ther 2013; 20:497-503. [PMID: 22855092 PMCID: PMC4004370 DOI: 10.1038/gt.2012.60] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2011] [Revised: 06/28/2012] [Accepted: 06/29/2012] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Gene delivery vectors derived from adeno-associated virus (AAV) have great potential as therapeutic agents. rAAV1 and rAAV6, efficiently target striated muscle, but the mechanisms that determine their tropism remain unclear. It is known that AAV6, but not AAV1, interacts with heparin-sulfate proteoglycans (HSPG). HSPGs are not primary receptors for AAV6, but heparin interactions may affect tissue tropism and transduction. To investigate these possibilities, we generated rAAV1 and rAAV6 capsids that do or do not bind heparin. We evaluated the transduction profile of these vectors in vivo across multiple routes of administration, and found that heparin-binding capability influences tissue transduction in striated muscle and neuronal tissues. Heparin-binding capsids transduce striated muscle more efficiently than non-binding capsids, via both intramuscular and intravenous injection. However, rAAV6 achieved greater muscle transduction than the heparin-binding rAAV1 variant, suggesting that there are additional factors that influence differences in transduction efficiency between AAV1 and AAV6. Interestingly, the opposite trend was found when vectors were delivered via intracranial injection. Non-binding vectors achieved robust and widespread gene expression, whereas transduction via heparin-binding serotypes was substantially reduced. These data indicate that heparin-binding capability is an important determinant of transduction that should be considered in the design of rAAV-mediated gene therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea L. H. Arnett
- Department of Neurology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Lisa R. Beutler
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Albert Quintana
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - James Allen
- Department of Neurology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Eric Finn
- Department of Neurology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Richard D. Palmiter
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, and Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195 USA
| | - Jeffrey S. Chamberlain
- Department of Neurology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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40
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Walsh CE, Batt KM. Hemophilia clinical gene therapy: brief review. Transl Res 2013; 161:307-12. [PMID: 23352600 DOI: 10.1016/j.trsl.2012.12.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2012] [Revised: 12/13/2012] [Accepted: 12/28/2012] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Genetic correction of hemophilia A and B was long considered amenable to the available gene transfer technologies. This assumption has come to fruition with the recent results of a phase I/II trial for hemophilia B. Here we review the clinical application of gene therapy for the hemophilia's as a paradigm of the evolution of gene transfer science and technology. This review is not intended as comprehensive but rather to highlight current clinical developments of gene therapy for the hemophilias.
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Konieczny P, Swiderski K, Chamberlain JS. Gene and cell-mediated therapies for muscular dystrophy. Muscle Nerve 2013; 47:649-63. [PMID: 23553671 DOI: 10.1002/mus.23738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/23/2012] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a devastating muscle disorder that affects 1 in 3,500 boys. Despite years of research and considerable progress in understanding the molecular mechanism of the disease and advancement of therapeutic approaches, there is no cure for DMD. The current treatment options are limited to physiotherapy and corticosteroids, and although they provide a substantial improvement in affected children, they only slow the course of the disorder. On a more optimistic note, more recent approaches either significantly alleviate or eliminate muscular dystrophy in murine and canine models of DMD and importantly, many of them are being tested in early phase human clinical trials. This review summarizes advancements that have been made in viral and nonviral gene therapy as well as stem cell therapy for DMD with a focus on the replacement and repair of the affected dystrophin gene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patryk Konieczny
- Department of Neurology, The University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington 98105, USA
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Bieber S, Halldorson JB, Finn E, Ahmad S, Chamberlain JS, Odom GL. Extracorporeal delivery of rAAV with metabolic exchange and oxygenation. Sci Rep 2013; 3:1538. [PMID: 23528884 PMCID: PMC3607836 DOI: 10.1038/srep01538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2013] [Accepted: 02/28/2013] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the past decade much progress has been made towards the treatment of disease with recombinant adeno-associated viral vectors, ranging from cancer to muscular dystrophies, and autoimmune diseases to cystic fibrosis. Given inherent challenges of vector delivery we developed a system incorporating commercially available dialysis equipment. This concept was evaluated in vitro utilizing rAAV expressing the reporter gene human placental alkaline phosphatase. A number of pre-circulating conditions were assessed. Vector recovery was evaluated by quantitative vector genome analysis and cellular transduction assays. A dialysis circulation time course was established, and results were recorded across varied conditions ranging from approximately 2 to 90% retention of viable vector. This approach is unique in that it focuses on efficient localized, isolated and continual delivery of vector to target tissues, provides for the preservation of tissue integrity with dialysis for metabolic exchange and allows for the transfer of oxygen through a secondary membrane post-dialysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott Bieber
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195-7720, USA
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Focal Delivery of AAV2/1-transgenes Into the Rat Brain by Localized Ultrasound-induced BBB Opening. MOLECULAR THERAPY-NUCLEIC ACIDS 2013; 2:e73. [PMID: 23423361 PMCID: PMC3586801 DOI: 10.1038/mtna.2012.64] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Delivery of drugs and macromolecules to the central nervous system (CNS) is hindered by the blood–brain barrier (BBB). Several approaches have been used to overcome this hindrance to facilitate the treatment of various CNS diseases. We now present results showing that chimeric adeno-associated virus 2/1 (AAV2/1) particles containing the coding region for the LacZ gene are efficiently delivered into the rat brain upon intravenous (IV) administration after BBB opening by focused ultrasound in the presence of vascular acoustic resonators. We show that the transgene is correctly and efficiently expressed in cells located in the neighborhood of the insonated focus, especially in the vicinity of small vessels and capillaries. Histochemical LacZ staining allows the identification of large amounts of cells expressing the enzymatically active protein. Using double immunofluorescence (IF) with antibodies against tubulinIII and bacterial LacZ, we identified these cells to be mostly neurons. A small proportion of the transduced cells was recognized as glial cells, reacting positive in the IF with antibodies against astrocytic markers. These results demonstrate that our approach allows a very specific, localized, and efficient expression of intravenously administered transgenes in the brain of rats upon ultrasound-induced BBB opening.
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Seto JT, Ramos JN, Muir L, Chamberlain JS, Odom GL. Gene replacement therapies for duchenne muscular dystrophy using adeno-associated viral vectors. Curr Gene Ther 2012; 12:139-51. [PMID: 22533379 DOI: 10.2174/156652312800840603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2012] [Revised: 04/16/2012] [Accepted: 04/17/2012] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The muscular dystrophies collectively represent a major health challenge, as few significant treatment options currently exist for any of these disorders. Recent years have witnessed a proliferation of novel approaches to therapy, spanning increased testing of existing and new pharmaceuticals, DNA delivery (both anti-sense oligonucleotides and plasmid DNA), gene therapies and stem cell technologies. While none of these has reached the point of being used in clinical practice, all show promise for being able to impact different types of muscular dystrophies. Our group has focused on developing direct gene replacement strategies to treat recessively inherited forms of muscular dystrophy, particularly Duchenne and Becker muscular dystrophy (DMD/BMD). Both forms of dystrophy are caused by mutations in the dystrophin gene and all cases can in theory be treated by gene replacement using synthetic forms of the dystrophin gene. The major challenges for success of this approach are the development of a suitable gene delivery shuttle, generating a suitable gene expression cassette able to be carried by such a shuttle, and achieving safe and effective delivery without elicitation of a destructive immune response. This review summarizes the current state of the art in terms of using adeno-associated viral vectors to deliver synthetic dystrophin genes for the purpose of developing gene therapy for DMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane T Seto
- Department of Neurology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195-7720, USA.
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45
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Lentz TB, Gray SJ, Samulski RJ. Viral vectors for gene delivery to the central nervous system. Neurobiol Dis 2012; 48:179-88. [PMID: 22001604 PMCID: PMC3293995 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2011.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 160] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2011] [Revised: 08/17/2011] [Accepted: 09/29/2011] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The potential benefits of gene therapy for neurological diseases such as Parkinson's, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), Epilepsy, and Alzheimer's are enormous. Even a delay in the onset of severe symptoms would be invaluable to patients suffering from these and other diseases. Significant effort has been placed in developing vectors capable of delivering therapeutic genes to the CNS in order to treat neurological disorders. At the forefront of potential vectors, viral systems have evolved to efficiently deliver their genetic material to a cell. The biology of different viruses offers unique solutions to the challenges of gene therapy, such as cell targeting, transgene expression and vector production. It is important to consider the natural biology of a vector when deciding whether it will be the most effective for a specific therapeutic function. In this review, we outline desired features of the ideal vector for gene delivery to the CNS and discuss how well available viral vectors compare to this model. Adeno-associated virus, retrovirus, adenovirus and herpesvirus vectors are covered. Focus is placed on features of the natural biology that have made these viruses effective tools for gene delivery with emphasis on their application in the CNS. Our goal is to provide insight into features of the optimal vector and which viral vectors can provide these features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas B. Lentz
- Gene Therapy Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Steven J. Gray
- Gene Therapy Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - R. Jude Samulski
- Gene Therapy Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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46
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Li C, Diprimio N, Bowles DE, Hirsch ML, Monahan PE, Asokan A, Rabinowitz J, Agbandje-McKenna M, Samulski RJ. Single amino acid modification of adeno-associated virus capsid changes transduction and humoral immune profiles. J Virol 2012; 86:7752-9. [PMID: 22593151 PMCID: PMC3421647 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.00675-12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2012] [Accepted: 05/03/2012] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors have the potential to promote long-term gene expression. Unfortunately, humoral immunity restricts patient treatment and in addition provides an obstacle to the potential option of vector readministration. In this study, we describe a comprehensive characterization of the neutralizing antibody (NAb) response to AAV type 1 (AAV1) through AAV5 both in vitro and in vivo. These results demonstrated that NAbs generated from one AAV type are unable to neutralize the transduction of other types. We extended this observation by demonstrating that a rationally engineered, muscle-tropic AAV2 mutant containing 5 amino acid substitutions from AAV1 displayed a NAb profile different from those of parental AAV2 and AAV1. Here we found that a single insertion of Thr from AAV1 into AAV2 capsid at residue 265 preserved high muscle transduction, while also changing the immune profile. To better understand the role of Thr insertion at position 265, we replaced all 20 amino acids and evaluated both muscle transduction and the NAb response. Of these variants, 8 mutants induced higher muscle transduction than AAV2. Additionally, three classes of capsid NAb immune profile were defined based on the ability to inhibit transduction from AAV2 or mutants. While no relationship was found between transduction, amino acid properties, and NAb titer or its cross-reactivity, these studies map a critical capsid motif involved in all steps of AAV infectivity. Our results suggest that AAV types can be utilized not only as templates to generate mutants with enhanced transduction efficiency but also as substrates for repeat administration.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Dawn E. Bowles
- Gene Therapy Center
- Department of Surgery, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | | | | | - Aravind Asokan
- Gene Therapy Center
- Department of Genetics, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Joseph Rabinowitz
- Gene Therapy Center
- Center for Translational Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Mavis Agbandje-McKenna
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Center for Structural Biology, The McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
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Recombinant adeno-associated virus: clinical application and development as a gene-therapy vector. Ther Deliv 2012; 3:835-56. [DOI: 10.4155/tde.12.63] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Gene therapy is gaining momentum as a method of treating human disease. Initially conceived as a strategy to complement defective genes in monogenic disorders, the scope of gene therapy has expanded to encompass a variety of applications. Likewise, the molecular tools for gene delivery have evolved and diversified to meet these various therapeutic needs. Recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) has made significant strides toward clinical application with an excellent safety profile and successes in several clinical trials. This review covers the basic biology of rAAV as a gene therapy vector as well as its advantages compared with other methods of gene delivery. The status of clinical trials utilizing rAAV is also discussed in detail. In conclusion, methods of engineering the vector to overcome challenges identified from these trials are covered, with emphasis on modification of the viral capsid to increase the tissue/cell-specific targeting and transduction efficiency.
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Nonnenmacher M, Weber T. Intracellular transport of recombinant adeno-associated virus vectors. Gene Ther 2012; 19:649-58. [PMID: 22357511 PMCID: PMC4465241 DOI: 10.1038/gt.2012.6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 168] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2011] [Revised: 01/11/2012] [Accepted: 01/11/2012] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Recombinant adeno-associated viral vectors (rAAVs) have been widely used for gene delivery in animal models, and are currently evaluated for human gene therapy after successful clinical trials in the treatment of inherited, degenerative or acquired diseases, such as Leber congenital amaurosis, Parkinson disease or heart failure. However, limitations in vector tropism, such as limited tissue specificity and insufficient transduction efficiencies of particular tissues and cell types, still preclude therapeutic applications in certain tissues. Wild-type adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) are defective viruses that require the presence of a helper virus to complete their life cycle. On the one hand, this unique property makes AAV vectors one of the safest available viral vectors for gene delivery. On the other, it also represents a potential obstacle because rAAV vectors have to overcome several biological barriers in the absence of a helper virus to transduce successfully a cell. Consequently, a better understanding of the cellular roadblocks that limit rAAV gene delivery is crucial and, during the last 15 years, numerous studies resulted in an expanding body of knowledge of the intracellular trafficking pathways of rAAV vectors. This review describes our current understanding of the mechanisms involved in rAAV attachment to target cells, endocytosis, intracellular trafficking, capsid processing, nuclear import and genome release with an emphasis on the most recent discoveries in the field and the emerging strategies used to improve the efficiency of AAV-derived vectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Nonnenmacher
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY 10029, USA
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Piacentino III V, Milano CA, Bolanos M, Schroder J, Messina E, Cockrell AS, Jones E, Krol A, Bursac N, Mao L, Devi GR, Samulski RJ, Bowles DE. X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein-mediated attenuation of apoptosis, using a novel cardiac-enhanced adeno-associated viral vector. Hum Gene Ther 2012; 23:635-46. [PMID: 22339372 PMCID: PMC3392616 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2011.186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2011] [Accepted: 02/09/2012] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Successful amelioration of cardiac dysfunction and heart failure through gene therapy approaches will require a transgene effective at attenuating myocardial injury, and subsequent remodeling, using an efficient and safe delivery vehicle. Our laboratory has established a well-curated, high-quality repository of human myocardial tissues that we use as a discovery engine to identify putative therapeutic transgene targets, as well as to better understand the molecular basis of human heart failure. By using this rare resource we were able to examine age- and sex-matched left ventricular samples from (1) end-stage failing human hearts and (2) nonfailing human hearts and were able to identify the X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein (XIAP) as a novel target for treating cardiac dysfunction. We demonstrate that XIAP is diminished in failing human hearts, indicating that this potent inhibitor of apoptosis may be central in protecting the human heart from cellular injury culminating in heart failure. Efforts to ameliorate heart failure through delivery of XIAP compelled the design of a novel adeno-associated viral (AAV) vector, termed SASTG, that achieves highly efficient transduction in mouse heart and in cultured neonatal rat cardiomyocytes. Increased XIAP expression achieved with the SASTG vector inhibits caspase-3/7 activity in neonatal cardiomyocytes after induction of apoptosis through three common cardiac stresses: protein kinase C-γ inhibition, hypoxia, or β-adrenergic receptor agonist. These studies demonstrate the potential benefit of XIAP to correct heart failure after highly efficient delivery to the heart with the rationally designed SASTG AAV vector.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentino Piacentino III
- Cardiothoracic Division, Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710
| | - Carmelo A. Milano
- Cardiothoracic Division, Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710
| | - Michael Bolanos
- Cardiothoracic Division, Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710
| | - Jacob Schroder
- Cardiothoracic Division, Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710
| | - Emily Messina
- Cardiothoracic Division, Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710
| | - Adam S. Cockrell
- Carolina Vaccine Institute, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599
| | - Edward Jones
- Cardiothoracic Division, Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710
| | - Ava Krol
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710
| | - Nenad Bursac
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710
| | - Lan Mao
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710
| | - Gayathri R. Devi
- Department of Pathology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710
- Division of Surgical Sciences, Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710
| | - R. Jude Samulski
- Gene Therapy Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599
| | - Dawn E. Bowles
- Division of Surgical Sciences, Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710
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50
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Sabatino DE, Arruda VR. Muscle Gene Therapy for Hemophilia. JOURNAL OF GENETIC SYNDROMES & GENE THERAPY 2012; Suppl 1:S1-010. [PMID: 24883231 PMCID: PMC4038336 DOI: 10.4172/2157-7412.s1-010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Muscle-directed gene therapy for hemophilia is an attractive strategy for expression of therapeutic levels of clotting factor as evident from preclinical studies and an early phase clinical trial. Notably, local FIX expression by AAV-mediated direct intramuscular injection to skeletal muscle persists for years. Development of intravascular delivery of AAV vector approaches to skeletal muscle resulted in vector in widespread areas of the limb and increased expression of FIX in hemophilia B dogs. The use of FIX variants with improved biological activity may provide the opportunity to increase the efficacy of these approaches. Studies for hemophilia A are less developed at this point, but utilizing transgenes that improve hemostasis independent of FIX and FVIII has potential therapeutic application for both hemophilia A and B. Continuous monitoring of humoral and T cell responses to the transgene and AAV capsid in human trials will be critical for the translation of these promising approaches for muscle gene therapy for hemophilia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denise E. Sabatino
- Division of Hematology, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Valder R. Arruda
- Division of Hematology, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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