1
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Williams DA, Kohn DB, Thrasher AJ. Ex vivo modification of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells for gene therapy. Mol Ther 2025; 33:2141-2153. [PMID: 40176348 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2025.03.058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2025] [Revised: 03/28/2025] [Accepted: 03/28/2025] [Indexed: 04/04/2025] Open
Abstract
The development of viral vectors has been particularly critical for genetic therapies of hematological diseases. Before the development of retrovirus vectors (RVVs), gene transfer into mammalian cells was accomplished by transduction of DNA plasmids by chemical means and later by electroporation. The main limitation of these methods is the inefficiency of transfer of intact sequences, and particularly with electroporation significant cell death of the manipulated cells. The earliest successful human gene therapy trials utilized γ-RVVs and many of the techniques developed in the 1980s. A breakthrough for the field was the exploitation and development of HIV for transfer vectors, termed lentivirus vectors. In this review, we highlight uses of retro- and lentivirus vectors in monogenic diseases in which hematopoietic stem cells are used in the autologous setting to treat immunodeficiencies, hemoglobinopathies and metabolic diseases. The three authors' perspective represent experiences in the field over four decades that encompasses both basic translational research and development and oversight of early and ongoing gene therapy trials utilizing viral vectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- David A Williams
- Boston Children's Hospital, Dana-Farber & Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115 USA.
| | - Donald B Kohn
- Department of Pediatrics (Hematology/Oncology), David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095 USA
| | - Adrian J Thrasher
- Molecular and Cellular Immunology, GOS Institute of Child Health, University College London, London WC1N 1EH, UK
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2
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Dou H, Wu R, Wang H, Wang X, Su Y. CCR5 + T cells as a potential biomarker for primary Sjögren's disease based on bioinformatics analysis. Clin Rheumatol 2025:10.1007/s10067-025-07460-6. [PMID: 40293619 DOI: 10.1007/s10067-025-07460-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2024] [Revised: 04/13/2025] [Accepted: 04/22/2025] [Indexed: 04/30/2025]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify and verify potential biomarkers for primary Sjögren's disease (pSjD) using bioinformatics analysis and explore the molecular immune mechanisms of biomarkers.male-to-female ratio of 1:9 METHODS: The pSjD datasets were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Differential expression analysis, weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) and functional analysis were conducted. PPI network analysis was performed and the hub genes were screened by Cytoscape software. The diagnostic value was assessed by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. To explore biomarker-immune cell relations, we used CIBERSORT for cell-type identification, combined with scRNA-seq data. Lastly, we validated the expression of the biomarker in human samples. RESULTS A total of 96 overlapping genes, including 1 downregulated and 95 upregulated genes, were obtained. Based on the enrichment analysis, these overlapping genes were mapped to terms related to the functions and regulation of the immune system. CCR5 was identified as a critical biomarker and demonstrated high diagnostic accuracy for pSjD. From CIBERSORT analysis, CCR5 was significantly associated with diverse immune cells. Further scRNA-seq analysis indicated that CCR5 was specifically upregulated in T cells of pSjD salivary gland tissues, which was confirmed in pSjD patients. CONCLUSION Our findings show the role of CCR5 in pSjD, mediated by immune mechanisms. CCR5 is localized in T cells of pSjD salivary glands. Elevated CCR5 expression may be a key biomarker, and increased CCR5 + T cells could aid future diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of pSjD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huixin Dou
- Department of Stomatology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Ruiqing Wu
- Department of Stomatology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Hao Wang
- Department of Stomatology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
| | - Xiaoyan Wang
- Department of Stomatology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
| | - Yingying Su
- Department of Stomatology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
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3
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Bono H. Recent Advances in Genome Editing and Bioinformatics: Addressing Challenges in Genome Editing Implementation and Genome Sequencing. Int J Mol Sci 2025; 26:3442. [PMID: 40244417 PMCID: PMC11989416 DOI: 10.3390/ijms26073442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2025] [Revised: 03/30/2025] [Accepted: 04/02/2025] [Indexed: 04/18/2025] Open
Abstract
Genome-editing technology has advanced significantly since the 2020 Nobel Prize in Chemistry was awarded for the development of clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) and CRISPR-associated protein 9 (Cas9). While CRISPR-Cas9 has become widely used in academic research, its social implementation has lagged due to unresolved patent disputes and slower progress in gene function analysis. To address this, new approaches bypassing direct gene function analysis are needed, with bioinformatics and next-generation sequencing (NGS) playing crucial roles. NGS is essential for sequencing the genome of target species, but challenges such as data quality, genome heterogeneity, ploidy, and small individual sizes persist. Despite these issues, advancements in sequencing technologies, like PacBio high-fidelity (HiFi) long reads and high-throughput chromosome conformation capture (Hi-C), have improved genome sequencing. Bioinformatics contributes to genome editing through off-target prediction and target gene selection, both of which require accurate genome sequence information. In this review, I will give updates on the development of genome editing and bioinformatics technologies with a focus on the rapid progress in genome sequencing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hidemasa Bono
- Graduate School of Integrated Sciences for Life, Hiroshima University, 3-10-23 Kagamiyama, Higashi-Hiroshima 739-0046, Japan; ; Tel.: +81-82-424-4013
- Department of Biological Science, School of Science, Hiroshima University, 3-10-23 Kagamiyama, Higashi-Hiroshima 739-0046, Japan
- Genome Editing Innovation Center, Hiroshima University, 3-10-23 Kagamiyama, Higashi-Hiroshima 739-0046, Japan
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4
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Mustfa SA, Dimitrievska M, Wang C, Gu C, Sun N, Romańczuk K, Karpinski P, Łaczmański Ł, McGrath JA, Jacków‐Malinowska J, Chiappini C. Porous Silicon Nanoneedles Efficiently Deliver Adenine Base Editor to Correct a Recurrent Pathogenic COL7A1 Variant in Recessive Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2025; 37:e2414728. [PMID: 40072288 PMCID: PMC12038538 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202414728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2024] [Revised: 02/26/2025] [Indexed: 04/30/2025]
Abstract
Base editing, a CRISPR-based genome editing technology, enables precise correction of single-nucleotide variants, promising resolutive treatment for monogenic genetic disorders like recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB). However, the application of base editors in cell manufacturing is hindered by inconsistent efficiency and high costs, contributed by suboptimal delivery methods. Nanoneedles have emerged as an effective delivery approach, enabling highly efficient, non-perturbing gene therapies both in vitro and in vivo. Here we demonstrate that nanoneedle delivery of an adenine base editor corrects a heterozygous single-nucleotide pathogenic variant in COL7A1 in primary RDEB fibroblasts in vitro with 96.5% efficiency, without inducing off-target variants. The nanoneedle delivery maintains cell viability and displays modest phenotypical alterations unlike conventional cationic lipid transfection. The nanoneedle-mediated editing significantly increases the production and secretion of full-length type VII collagen protein, contributing to restore functional fibroblasts phenotype by improving cell adhesion. These findings underscore the suitability and safety of nanoneedles for gene editing in a clinically relevant context of cell manufacturing, establishing a foundation for their use in cell therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salman Ahmad Mustfa
- Centre for Craniofacial and Regenerative BiologyKing's College LondonLondonSE1 1ULUK
| | - Marija Dimitrievska
- Centre for Craniofacial and Regenerative BiologyKing's College LondonLondonSE1 1ULUK
- St John's Institute of DermatologySchool of Basic & Medical BiosciencesKing's College LondonLondonSE1 1ULUK
| | - Cong Wang
- Centre for Craniofacial and Regenerative BiologyKing's College LondonLondonSE1 1ULUK
- London Centre for NanotechnologyKing's College LondonLondonSE1 1ULUK
| | - Chenlei Gu
- Centre for Craniofacial and Regenerative BiologyKing's College LondonLondonSE1 1ULUK
- London Centre for NanotechnologyKing's College LondonLondonSE1 1ULUK
| | - Ningjia Sun
- Centre for Craniofacial and Regenerative BiologyKing's College LondonLondonSE1 1ULUK
| | - Katarzyna Romańczuk
- Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental TherapyPolish Academy of SciencesWroclaw53‐114Poland
| | - Pawel Karpinski
- Department of GeneticsWroclaw Medical UniversityWroclaw50‐367Poland
| | - Łukasz Łaczmański
- Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental TherapyPolish Academy of SciencesWroclaw53‐114Poland
| | - John A. McGrath
- St John's Institute of DermatologySchool of Basic & Medical BiosciencesKing's College LondonLondonSE1 1ULUK
| | - Joanna Jacków‐Malinowska
- St John's Institute of DermatologySchool of Basic & Medical BiosciencesKing's College LondonLondonSE1 1ULUK
| | - Ciro Chiappini
- Centre for Craniofacial and Regenerative BiologyKing's College LondonLondonSE1 1ULUK
- London Centre for NanotechnologyKing's College LondonLondonSE1 1ULUK
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5
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Wijeyesinghe S, Chinen J. Gene therapy for inborn errors of immunity: Current clinical progress. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2025:S1081-1206(25)00117-6. [PMID: 40058525 DOI: 10.1016/j.anai.2025.02.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2025] [Revised: 02/24/2025] [Accepted: 02/26/2025] [Indexed: 04/02/2025]
Abstract
Hematopoietic stem cell transplant has been the single curative treatment for inborn errors of immunity (IEI) and is recommended for the most severe IEI conditions, such as severe combined immunodeficiency. However, adverse outcomes primarily due to histocompatibility differences between the donor and the patient are still of concern. Progress in genetic and molecular mechanisms, including new technology to insert DNA sequences in cell genomes, has allowed the development of strategies to treat genetic diseases by correcting gene defect in patients' cells. This technology is named gene therapy. Gene therapy approaches being developed for IEI are mediated by gene insertion, using a retroviral vector, or by gene editing, using a combination of a nuclease and a DNA template. After the unexpected occurrence of oncogenesis associated with the initial retroviral vector designs, significant advances have led to successful gene therapy clinical trials for 3 forms of severe combined immunodeficiency, which demonstrated the safety and efficacy of this approach. Active preclinical and clinical studies are ongoing for diverse IEI, including chronic granulomatous disease, leukocyte adhesion deficiency, severe congenital neutropenia, Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome, X-linked agammaglobulinemia, and familial forms of hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sathi Wijeyesinghe
- Division of Immunology, Allergy and Retrovirology, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston and The Woodlands, Texas
| | - Javier Chinen
- Division of Immunology, Allergy and Retrovirology, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston and The Woodlands, Texas.
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6
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Nakamae K, Suzuki T, Yonezawa S, Yamamoto K, Kakuzaki T, Ono H, Naito Y, Bono H. Risk Prediction of RNA Off-Targets of CRISPR Base Editors in Tissue-Specific Transcriptomes Using Language Models. Int J Mol Sci 2025; 26:1723. [PMID: 40004186 PMCID: PMC11855689 DOI: 10.3390/ijms26041723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2025] [Revised: 02/11/2025] [Accepted: 02/13/2025] [Indexed: 02/27/2025] Open
Abstract
Base-editing technologies, particularly cytosine base editors (CBEs), allow precise gene modification without introducing double-strand breaks; however, unintended RNA off-target effects remain a critical concern and are under studied. To address this gap, we developed the Pipeline for CRISPR-induced Transcriptome-wide Unintended RNA Editing (PiCTURE), a standardized computational pipeline for detecting and quantifying transcriptome-wide CBE-induced RNA off-target events. PiCTURE identifies both canonical ACW (W = A or T/U) motif-dependent and non-canonical RNA off-targets, revealing a broader WCW motif that underlies many unanticipated edits. Additionally, we developed two machine learning models based on the DNABERT-2 language model, termed STL and SNL, which outperformed motif-only approaches in terms of accuracy, precision, recall, and F1 score. To demonstrate the practical application of our predictive model for CBE-induced RNA off-target risk, we integrated PiCTURE outputs with the Predicting RNA Off-target compared with Tissue-specific Expression for Caring for Tissue and Organ (PROTECTiO) pipeline and estimated RNA off-target risk for each transcript showing tissue-specific expression. The analysis revealed differences among tissues: while the brain and ovaries exhibited relatively low off-target burden, the colon and lungs displayed relatively high risks. Our study provides a comprehensive framework for RNA off-target profiling, emphasizing the importance of advanced machine learning-based classifiers in CBE safety evaluations and offering valuable insights to inform the development of safer genome-editing therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuki Nakamae
- Genome Editing Innovation Center, Hiroshima University, Higashi-Hiroshima 739-0046, Japan;
| | - Takayuki Suzuki
- Graduate School of Integrated Sciences for Life, Hiroshima University, Higashi-Hiroshima 739-0046, Japan; (T.S.); (S.Y.)
| | - Sora Yonezawa
- Graduate School of Integrated Sciences for Life, Hiroshima University, Higashi-Hiroshima 739-0046, Japan; (T.S.); (S.Y.)
| | | | | | - Hiromasa Ono
- Genome Editing Innovation Center, Hiroshima University, Higashi-Hiroshima 739-0046, Japan;
- Database Center for Life Science, Joint Support-Center for Data Science Research, Research Organization of Information and Systems, 178-4-4 Wakashiba, Kashiwa 277-0871, Japan;
| | - Yuki Naito
- Database Center for Life Science, Joint Support-Center for Data Science Research, Research Organization of Information and Systems, 178-4-4 Wakashiba, Kashiwa 277-0871, Japan;
| | - Hidemasa Bono
- Genome Editing Innovation Center, Hiroshima University, Higashi-Hiroshima 739-0046, Japan;
- Graduate School of Integrated Sciences for Life, Hiroshima University, Higashi-Hiroshima 739-0046, Japan; (T.S.); (S.Y.)
- Database Center for Life Science, Joint Support-Center for Data Science Research, Research Organization of Information and Systems, 178-4-4 Wakashiba, Kashiwa 277-0871, Japan;
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7
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Lei Q, Deng H, Sun S. Pluripotent stem cell-based immunotherapy: advances in translational research, cell differentiation, and gene modifications. LIFE MEDICINE 2025; 4:lnaf002. [PMID: 40110110 PMCID: PMC11916900 DOI: 10.1093/lifemedi/lnaf002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/16/2025] [Indexed: 03/22/2025]
Abstract
Cell-based immunotherapy, recognized as living drugs, is revolutionizing clinical treatment to advanced cancer and shaping the landscape of biomedical research for complex diseases. The differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) emerges as a novel platform with the potential to generate an unlimited supply of therapeutic immune cells, especially when coupled with gene modification techniques. PSC-based immunotherapy is expected to meet the vast clinical demand for living drugs. Here, we examine recent preclinical and clinical advances in PSC-based immunotherapy, focusing on PSC gene modification strategies and differentiation methods for producing therapeutic immune cells. We also discuss opportunities in this field and challenges in cell quality and safety and stresses the need for further research and transparency to unlock the full potential of PSC immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Lei
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Stem Cell Research Center, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Hongkui Deng
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Stem Cell Research Center, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, China
- Changping Laboratory, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Shicheng Sun
- Changping Laboratory, Beijing 102206, China
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, The Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
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8
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Xu W, Zhang S, Qin H, Yao K. From bench to bedside: cutting-edge applications of base editing and prime editing in precision medicine. J Transl Med 2024; 22:1133. [PMID: 39707395 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-05957-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2024] [Accepted: 12/08/2024] [Indexed: 12/23/2024] Open
Abstract
CRISPR-based gene editing technology theoretically allows for precise manipulation of any genetic target within living cells, achieving the desired sequence modifications. This revolutionary advancement has fundamentally transformed the field of biomedicine, offering immense clinical potential for treating and correcting genetic disorders. In the treatment of most genetic diseases, precise genome editing that avoids the generation of mixed editing byproducts is considered the ideal approach. This article reviews the current progress of base editors and prime editors, elaborating on specific examples of their applications in the therapeutic field, and highlights opportunities for improvement. Furthermore, we discuss the specific performance of these technologies in terms of safety and efficacy in clinical applications, and analyze the latest advancements and potential directions that could influence the future development of genome editing technologies. Our goal is to outline the clinical relevance of this rapidly evolving scientific field and preview a roadmap for successful DNA base editing therapies for the treatment of hereditary or idiopathic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weihui Xu
- Institute of Visual Neuroscience and Stem Cell Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430065, China
- College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430065, China
| | - Shiyao Zhang
- Institute of Visual Neuroscience and Stem Cell Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430065, China
- College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430065, China
| | - Huan Qin
- Institute of Visual Neuroscience and Stem Cell Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430065, China.
- College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430065, China.
| | - Kai Yao
- Institute of Visual Neuroscience and Stem Cell Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430065, China.
- College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430065, China.
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9
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Gilioli G, Lankester AC, de Kivit S, Staal FJT, Ott de Bruin LM. Gene therapy strategies for RAG1 deficiency: Challenges and breakthroughs. Immunol Lett 2024; 270:106931. [PMID: 39303994 DOI: 10.1016/j.imlet.2024.106931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2024] [Revised: 09/14/2024] [Accepted: 09/17/2024] [Indexed: 09/22/2024]
Abstract
Mutations in the recombination activating genes (RAG) cause various forms of immune deficiency. Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is the only cure for patients with severe manifestations of RAG deficiency; however, outcomes are suboptimal with mismatched donors. Gene therapy aims to correct autologous hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPC) and is emerging as an alternative to allogeneic HSCT. Gene therapy based on viral gene addition exploits viral vectors to add a correct copy of a mutated gene into the genome of HSPCs. Only recently, after a prolonged phase of development, viral gene addition has been approved for clinical testing in RAG1-SCID patients. In the meantime, a new technology, CRISPR/Cas9, has made its debut to compete with viral gene addition. Gene editing based on CRISPR/Cas9 allows to perform targeted genomic integrations of a correct copy of a mutated gene, circumventing the risk of virus-mediated insertional mutagenesis. In this review, we present the biology of the RAG genes, the challenges faced during the development of viral gene addition for RAG1-SCID, and the current status of gene therapy for RAG1 deficiency. In particular, we highlight the latest advances and challenges in CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing and their potential for the future of gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgio Gilioli
- Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Arjan C Lankester
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Stem Cell Transplantation Program and Laboratory for Pediatric Immunology, Willem-Alexander Children's Hospital, the Netherlands
| | - Sander de Kivit
- Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Frank J T Staal
- Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands.
| | - Lisa M Ott de Bruin
- Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands; Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Stem Cell Transplantation Program and Laboratory for Pediatric Immunology, Willem-Alexander Children's Hospital, the Netherlands
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10
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Yoo SP, Yuan X, Engstrom C, Chang P, Li S, Lathrop L, Lagosh J, Seet C, Kohn DB, Crooks GM. Stage-specific CAR-mediated signaling generates naïve-like, TCR-null CAR T cells from induced pluripotent stem cells. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.11.25.624041. [PMID: 39651198 PMCID: PMC11623545 DOI: 10.1101/2024.11.25.624041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2024]
Abstract
Genetically modified, induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) offer a promising allogeneic source for the generation of functionally enhanced, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells. However, the signaling of CARs during early T cell development and the removal of the endogenous T cell receptor required to prevent alloreactivity pose significant challenges to the production of mature conventional CAR T cells from iPSCs. Here, we show that TCR-null, CD8αβ CAR T cells can be efficiently generated from iPSCs by engineering stage-specific onset of CAR expression and signaling to both permit conventional T cell development and to induce efficient positive selection. CAR T cells produced using this approach displayed a uniform, naïve T cell phenotype and demonstrated superior antigen-specific cytotoxicity compared to iPSC-derived effector memory CAR T cells. Multimodal sequencing revealed CAR-mediated positive selection induced the persistent upregulation of key transcription factors involved in naïve T cell development. Achieving precise control of CAR expression and signaling in developmentally sensitive T precursors will be critical to realizing the full potential for "off-the-shelf", iPSC-derived cellular therapies.
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11
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Cheng H, Deng H, Ma D, Gao M, Zhou Z, Li H, Liu S, Teng T. Insight into the natural regulatory mechanisms and clinical applications of the CRISPR-Cas system. Heliyon 2024; 10:e39538. [PMID: 39502233 PMCID: PMC11535992 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e39538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2024] [Revised: 10/14/2024] [Accepted: 10/16/2024] [Indexed: 11/08/2024] Open
Abstract
CRISPR-Cas, the adaptive immune system exclusive to prokaryotes, confers resistance against foreign mobile genetic elements. The CRISPR-Cas system is now being exploited by scientists in a diverse range of genome editing applications. CRISPR-Cas systems can be categorized into six different types based on their composition and mechanism, and there are also natural regulatory biomolecules in bacteria and bacteriophages that can either enhance or inhibit the immune function of CRISPR-Cas. The CRISPR-Cas systems are currently being trialed as a new tool for gene therapy to treat various human diseases, including cancers and genetic diseases, offering significant therapeutic potential. This paper comprehensively summarizes various aspects of the CRISPR-Cas system, encompassing its diversity, regulatory mechanisms, its clinical applications and the obstacles encountered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Cheng
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, 475004, China
| | - Haoyue Deng
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, 475004, China
| | - Dongdao Ma
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, 475004, China
| | - Mengyuan Gao
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, 475004, China
| | - Zhihan Zhou
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, 475004, China
| | - Heng Li
- School of Medical Laboratory, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, 261053, Shandong, China
| | - Shejuan Liu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, 475004, China
| | - Tieshan Teng
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, 475004, China
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12
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Pala F, Notarangelo LD, Bosticardo M. Rediscovering the human thymus through cutting-edge technologies. J Exp Med 2024; 221:e20230892. [PMID: 39167072 PMCID: PMC11338284 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20230892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2024] [Revised: 06/24/2024] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Recent technological advances have transformed our understanding of the human thymus. Innovations such as high-resolution imaging, single-cell omics, and organoid cultures, including thymic epithelial cell (TEC) differentiation and culture, and improvements in biomaterials, have further elucidated the thymus architecture, cellular dynamics, and molecular mechanisms underlying T cell development, and have unraveled previously unrecognized levels of stromal cell heterogeneity. These advancements offer unprecedented insights into thymic biology and hold promise for the development of novel therapeutic strategies for immune-related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Pala
- Immune Deficiency Genetics Section, Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health , Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Luigi D Notarangelo
- Immune Deficiency Genetics Section, Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health , Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Marita Bosticardo
- Immune Deficiency Genetics Section, Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health , Bethesda, MD, USA
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13
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Li JH. CRISPR-based approaches for studying inborn errors of immunity. Clin Transl Med 2024; 14:e70021. [PMID: 39370702 PMCID: PMC11456690 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.70021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2024] [Accepted: 09/01/2024] [Indexed: 10/08/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Joey H. Li
- Department of MicrobiologyImmunology, and Molecular GeneticsDavid Geffen School of Medicine at UCLALos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
- Molecular Biology InstituteUniversity of CaliforniaLos AngelesLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
- Medical Scientist Training ProgramDavid Geffen School of Medicine at UCLALos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
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14
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Pugliano CM, Berger M, Ray RM, Sapkos K, Wu B, Laird A, Ye Y, Thomson D, DeGottardi MQ, Khan IF, Tatiossian K, Miles BA, Aeschimann F, Pasquier J, Kim MM, Rawlings DJ. DNA-PK inhibition enhances gene editing efficiency in HSPCs for CRISPR-based treatment of X-linked hyper IgM syndrome. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2024; 32:101297. [PMID: 40012884 PMCID: PMC11863497 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2024.101297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2025]
Abstract
Targeted gene editing to restore CD40L expression via homology-directed repair (HDR) in CD34+ hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) represents a potential long-term therapy for X-linked hyper IgM syndrome. However, clinical translation of HSPC editing is limited by inefficient long-term engraftment of HDR-edited HSPCs. Here, we ameliorate this issue by employing a small-molecule inhibitor of DNA-PKcs, AZD7648, to bias DNA repair mechanisms to facilitate HDR upon CRISPR SpCas9-based gene editing. Using AZD7648 treatment and a clinically relevant HSPC source, mobilized peripheral blood CD34+ cells, we achieve ∼60% HDR efficiency at the CD40LG locus and enhanced engraftment of HDR-edited HSPCs in primary and secondary xenotransplants. Specifically, we observed a 1.6-fold increase of HDR-edited long-term HSPCs in primary transplant recipients without disturbing chimerism levels or differentiation capacity. As CD40L is primarily expressed in T cells, we demonstrate T cell differentiation from HDR-edited HSPCs in vivo and in artificial thymic organoid cultures, and endogenously regulated CD40L expression following activation of in-vivo-derived CD4+ T cells. Our combined findings demonstrate HDR editing at the CD40LG locus at potentially clinically beneficial levels. More broadly, these data support using DNA-PKcs inhibition with AZD7648 as a simple and efficacious addition to HSPC editing platforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cole M. Pugliano
- Center for Immunity and Immunotherapies and the Program for Cell and Gene Therapy, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, WA 98101, USA
| | - Mason Berger
- Center for Immunity and Immunotherapies and the Program for Cell and Gene Therapy, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, WA 98101, USA
| | - Roslyn M. Ray
- Gene Therapy Research, CSL Behring, Pasadena, CA 91101, USA
| | - Kai Sapkos
- Gene Therapy Research, CSL Behring, Pasadena, CA 91101, USA
| | - Betty Wu
- Gene Therapy Research, CSL Behring, Pasadena, CA 91101, USA
| | - Aidan Laird
- Center for Immunity and Immunotherapies and the Program for Cell and Gene Therapy, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, WA 98101, USA
| | - Yidian Ye
- Center for Immunity and Immunotherapies and the Program for Cell and Gene Therapy, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, WA 98101, USA
| | - Daniel Thomson
- Center for Immunity and Immunotherapies and the Program for Cell and Gene Therapy, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, WA 98101, USA
| | - M. Quinn DeGottardi
- Center for Immunity and Immunotherapies and the Program for Cell and Gene Therapy, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, WA 98101, USA
| | - Iram F. Khan
- Center for Immunity and Immunotherapies and the Program for Cell and Gene Therapy, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, WA 98101, USA
| | | | | | - Florian Aeschimann
- CSL Behring, Research Bern, 3000 Bern, Switzerland
- Swiss Institute for Translational Medicine, Sitem-insel, 3010 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Jerome Pasquier
- CSL Behring, Research Bern, 3000 Bern, Switzerland
- Swiss Institute for Translational Medicine, Sitem-insel, 3010 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Mihee M. Kim
- Gene Therapy Research, CSL Behring, Pasadena, CA 91101, USA
| | - David J. Rawlings
- Center for Immunity and Immunotherapies and the Program for Cell and Gene Therapy, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, WA 98101, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98105, USA
- Department of Immunology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
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15
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Xu M, Zhang G, Cui T, Liu J, Wang Q, Shang D, Yu T, Guo B, Huang J, Li C. Cross-modal integration of bulk RNA-seq and single-cell RNA sequencing data to reveal T-cell exhaustion in colorectal cancer. J Cell Mol Med 2024; 28:e70101. [PMID: 39344205 PMCID: PMC11439987 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.70101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2024] [Revised: 08/20/2024] [Accepted: 09/09/2024] [Indexed: 10/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a relatively common malignancy clinically and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Recent studies have identified T-cell exhaustion as playing a crucial role in the pathogenesis of CRC. A long-standing challenge in the clinical management of CRC is to understand how T cells function during its progression and metastasis, and whether potential therapeutic targets for CRC treatment can be predicted through T cells. Here, we propose DeepTEX, a multi-omics deep learning approach that integrates cross-model data to investigate the heterogeneity of T-cell exhaustion in CRC. DeepTEX uses a domain adaptation model to align the data distributions from two different modalities and applies a cross-modal knowledge distillation model to predict the heterogeneity of T-cell exhaustion across diverse patients, identifying key functional pathways and genes. DeepTEX offers valuable insights into the application of deep learning in multi-omics, providing crucial data for exploring the stages of T-cell exhaustion associated with CRC and relevant therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingcong Xu
- School of Computer Science and TechnologyHarbin University of Science and TechnologyHarbinChina
- Cardiovascular Lab of Big Data and Imaging Artificial Intelligence, Hengyang Medical School, The First Affiliated Hospital, University of South ChinaHengyangHunanChina
| | - Guorui Zhang
- Cardiovascular Lab of Big Data and Imaging Artificial Intelligence, Hengyang Medical School, The First Affiliated Hospital, University of South ChinaHengyangHunanChina
- Insititute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Hengyang Medical College, University of South ChinaHengyangHunanChina
| | - Ting Cui
- Cardiovascular Lab of Big Data and Imaging Artificial Intelligence, Hengyang Medical School, The First Affiliated Hospital, University of South ChinaHengyangHunanChina
- Insititute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Hengyang Medical College, University of South ChinaHengyangHunanChina
| | - Jiaqi Liu
- Cardiovascular Lab of Big Data and Imaging Artificial Intelligence, Hengyang Medical School, The First Affiliated Hospital, University of South ChinaHengyangHunanChina
- Insititute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Hengyang Medical College, University of South ChinaHengyangHunanChina
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Multi‐Omics and Artificial Intelligence of Cardiovascular DiseasesUniversity of South ChinaHengyangHunanChina
| | - Qiuyu Wang
- Cardiovascular Lab of Big Data and Imaging Artificial Intelligence, Hengyang Medical School, The First Affiliated Hospital, University of South ChinaHengyangHunanChina
- Insititute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Hengyang Medical College, University of South ChinaHengyangHunanChina
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Multi‐Omics and Artificial Intelligence of Cardiovascular DiseasesUniversity of South ChinaHengyangHunanChina
| | - Desi Shang
- Cardiovascular Lab of Big Data and Imaging Artificial Intelligence, Hengyang Medical School, The First Affiliated Hospital, University of South ChinaHengyangHunanChina
- Insititute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Hengyang Medical College, University of South ChinaHengyangHunanChina
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Multi‐Omics and Artificial Intelligence of Cardiovascular DiseasesUniversity of South ChinaHengyangHunanChina
| | - Tingting Yu
- Cardiovascular Lab of Big Data and Imaging Artificial Intelligence, Hengyang Medical School, The First Affiliated Hospital, University of South ChinaHengyangHunanChina
| | - Bingzhou Guo
- College of Artificial Intelligence and Big Data for Medical Sciences, Shandong First Medical UniversityJinanShandongChina
| | - Jinjie Huang
- School of Computer Science and TechnologyHarbin University of Science and TechnologyHarbinChina
| | - Chunquan Li
- Cardiovascular Lab of Big Data and Imaging Artificial Intelligence, Hengyang Medical School, The First Affiliated Hospital, University of South ChinaHengyangHunanChina
- Insititute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Hengyang Medical College, University of South ChinaHengyangHunanChina
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Multi‐Omics and Artificial Intelligence of Cardiovascular DiseasesUniversity of South ChinaHengyangHunanChina
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16
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Liu D, Hu X, Chen Z, Wei W, Wu Y. Key links in the physiological regulation of the immune system and disease induction: T cell receptor -CD3 complex. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 227:116441. [PMID: 39029632 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2024.116441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2024] [Revised: 07/12/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/21/2024]
Abstract
T cell receptor (TCR) is a kind of surface marker that are specific to T cells. The TCR regulates T cell function and participates in the body's immunological response to prevent immune dysregulation and inflammatory reactions by identifying and binding exogenous antigens. Due to its brief intracellular segment, TCR requires intracellular molecules to assist with signaling. Among these, the CD3 molecule is one of the most important. The CD3 molecule involves in TCR structural stability as well as T cell activation signaling. A TCR-CD3 complex is created when TCR and CD3 form a non-covalent bond. Antigen recognition and T cell signaling are both facilitated by the TCR-CD3 complex. When a CD3 subunit is absent, a TCR-CD3 complex cannot form, and none of the subunits is transported to the cell surface. Thus, T cells cannot develop. Consequently, research on the physiological functions and potential pathogenicity of CD3 subunits can clarify the pathogenesis of immune system diseases and can offer fresh approaches to the treatment of it. In this review, the structure and function of the TCR-CD3 complex in the immune system was summarized, the pathogenicity of each CD3 subunit and therapeutic approaches to related diseases was explored and research directions for the development of new targeted drugs was provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danyan Liu
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Xiaoxi Hu
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Zhaoying Chen
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Wei Wei
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, Hefei 230032, China.
| | - Yujing Wu
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, Hefei 230032, China.
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17
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Zhang C, Xu J, Wu Y, Xu C, Xu P. Base Editors-Mediated Gene Therapy in Hematopoietic Stem Cells for Hematologic Diseases. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2024; 20:1387-1405. [PMID: 38644403 PMCID: PMC11319617 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-024-10715-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
Base editors, developed from the CRISPR/Cas system, consist of components such as deaminase and Cas variants. Since their emergence in 2016, the precision, efficiency, and safety of base editors have been gradually optimized. The feasibility of using base editors in gene therapy has been demonstrated in several disease models. Compared with the CRISPR/Cas system, base editors have shown great potential in hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) and HSC-based gene therapy, because they do not generate double-stranded breaks (DSBs) while achieving the precise realization of single-base substitutions. This precise editing mechanism allows for the permanent correction of genetic defects directly at their source within HSCs, thus promising a lasting therapeutic effect. Recent advances in base editors are expected to significantly increase the number of clinical trials for HSC-based gene therapies. In this review, we summarize the development and recent progress of DNA base editors, discuss their applications in HSC gene therapy, and highlight the prospects and challenges of future clinical stem cell therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengpeng Zhang
- Cyrus Tang Medical Institute, National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Soochow Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Jinchao Xu
- Cyrus Tang Medical Institute, National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Soochow Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yikang Wu
- Cyrus Tang Medical Institute, National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Soochow Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Can Xu
- Cyrus Tang Medical Institute, National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Soochow Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Peng Xu
- Cyrus Tang Medical Institute, National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Soochow Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, Jiangsu Province, China.
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18
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Liu Y, Kong J, Liu G, Li Z, Xiao Y. Precise Gene Knock-In Tools with Minimized Risk of DSBs: A Trend for Gene Manipulation. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2401797. [PMID: 38728624 PMCID: PMC11267366 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202401797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
Gene knock-in refers to the insertion of exogenous functional genes into a target genome to achieve continuous expression. Currently, most knock-in tools are based on site-directed nucleases, which can induce double-strand breaks (DSBs) at the target, following which the designed donors carrying functional genes can be inserted via the endogenous gene repair pathway. The size of donor genes is limited by the characteristics of gene repair, and the DSBs induce risks like genotoxicity. New generation tools, such as prime editing, transposase, and integrase, can insert larger gene fragments while minimizing or eliminating the risk of DSBs, opening new avenues in the development of animal models and gene therapy. However, the elimination of off-target events and the production of delivery carriers with precise requirements remain challenging, restricting the application of the current knock-in treatments to mainly in vitro settings. Here, a comprehensive review of the knock-in tools that do not/minimally rely on DSBs and use other mechanisms is provided. Moreover, the challenges and recent advances of in vivo knock-in treatments in terms of the therapeutic process is discussed. Collectively, the new generation of DSBs-minimizing and large-fragment knock-in tools has revolutionized the field of gene editing, from basic research to clinical treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongfeng Liu
- Department of PharmacologySchool of PharmacyChina Pharmaceutical UniversityNanjing210009China
- State Key Laboratory of Natural MedicinesChina Pharmaceutical UniversityNanjing210009China
- Mudi Meng Honors CollegeChina Pharmaceutical UniversityNanjing210009China
| | - Jianping Kong
- Department of PharmacologySchool of PharmacyChina Pharmaceutical UniversityNanjing210009China
- State Key Laboratory of Natural MedicinesChina Pharmaceutical UniversityNanjing210009China
| | - Gongyu Liu
- Department of PharmacologySchool of PharmacyChina Pharmaceutical UniversityNanjing210009China
- State Key Laboratory of Natural MedicinesChina Pharmaceutical UniversityNanjing210009China
| | - Zhaoxing Li
- Department of PharmacologySchool of PharmacyChina Pharmaceutical UniversityNanjing210009China
- State Key Laboratory of Natural MedicinesChina Pharmaceutical UniversityNanjing210009China
- Chongqing Innovation Institute of China Pharmaceutical UniversityChongqing401135China
| | - Yibei Xiao
- Department of PharmacologySchool of PharmacyChina Pharmaceutical UniversityNanjing210009China
- State Key Laboratory of Natural MedicinesChina Pharmaceutical UniversityNanjing210009China
- Chongqing Innovation Institute of China Pharmaceutical UniversityChongqing401135China
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19
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Somekh I, Hendel A, Somech R. Evolution of Gene Therapy for Inborn Errors of Immunity. JAMA Pediatr 2024; 178:645-646. [PMID: 38767875 DOI: 10.1001/jamapediatrics.2024.1116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
This Viewpoint reviews the history and current state of gene therapy for inborn errors of immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ido Somekh
- Pediatric Department A and the Immunology Service, Jeffrey Modell Foundation Center, Tel-Aviv, Israel
- Faculty of Medicine, Edmond and Lily Safra Children's Hospital, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Ayal Hendel
- Institute of Nanotechnology and Advanced Materials, The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan, Israel
| | - Raz Somech
- Pediatric Department A and the Immunology Service, Jeffrey Modell Foundation Center, Tel-Aviv, Israel
- Faculty of Medicine, Edmond and Lily Safra Children's Hospital, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
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20
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Kansal R. The CRISPR-Cas System and Clinical Applications of CRISPR-Based Gene Editing in Hematology with a Focus on Inherited Germline Predisposition to Hematologic Malignancies. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:863. [PMID: 39062641 PMCID: PMC11276294 DOI: 10.3390/genes15070863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2024] [Revised: 06/27/2024] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-based gene editing has begun to transform the treatment landscape of genetic diseases. The history of the discovery of CRISPR/CRISPR-associated (Cas) proteins/single-guide RNA (sgRNA)-based gene editing since the first report of repetitive sequences of unknown significance in 1987 is fascinating, highly instructive, and inspiring for future advances in medicine. The recent approval of CRISPR-Cas9-based gene therapy to treat patients with severe sickle cell anemia and transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia has renewed hope for treating other hematologic diseases, including patients with a germline predisposition to hematologic malignancies, who would benefit greatly from the development of CRISPR-inspired gene therapies. The purpose of this paper is three-fold: first, a chronological description of the history of CRISPR-Cas9-sgRNA-based gene editing; second, a brief description of the current state of clinical research in hematologic diseases, including selected applications in treating hematologic diseases with CRISPR-based gene therapy, preceded by a brief description of the current tools being used in clinical genome editing; and third, a presentation of the current progress in gene therapies in inherited hematologic diseases and bone marrow failure syndromes, to hopefully stimulate efforts towards developing these therapies for patients with inherited bone marrow failure syndromes and other inherited conditions with a germline predisposition to hematologic malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rina Kansal
- Molecular Oncology and Genetics, Diagnostic Laboratories, Versiti Blood Center of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53233, USA;
- Department of Pathology and Anatomical Sciences, The University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14260, USA
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21
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Van Nieuwenhove E. Highlight of 2023: Advances in pediatric immunology. Immunol Cell Biol 2024; 102:460-462. [PMID: 38847186 DOI: 10.1111/imcb.12790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
In this article for the Highlights of 2023 Series, significant advancements in pediatric immunology are discussed, focusing on new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. Key studies include the integration of genomic and proteomic profiling for better diagnosis of inborn errors of immunity, the impact of nongenetic factors such as autoantibodies on immune responses, the promising use of Janus kinase inhibitors and chimeric antigen receptor-T cell therapy for treating immune deficiencies and autoimmune diseases and the potential for a curative approach using prime editing. These developments mark a shift toward personalized and precision medicine in pediatric immunology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika Van Nieuwenhove
- Department of Pediatric Rheumatology and Immunology, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
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22
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Zhang L, Li K, Liu Z, An L, Wei H, Pang S, Cao Z, Huang X, Jin X, Ma X. Restoring T and B cell generation in X-linked severe combined immunodeficiency mice through hematopoietic stem cells adenine base editing. Mol Ther 2024; 32:1658-1671. [PMID: 38532630 PMCID: PMC11184316 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2024.03.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Base editing of hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells (HSPCs) is an attractive strategy for treating immunohematologic diseases. However, the feasibility of using adenine-base-edited HSPCs for treating X-linked severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID-X1), the influence of dose-response relationships on immune cell generation, and the potential risks have not been demonstrated in vivo. Here, a humanized SCID-X1 mouse model was established, and 86.67% ± 2.52% (n = 3) of mouse hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) pathogenic mutations were corrected, with no single-guide-RNA (sgRNA)-dependent off-target effects detected. Analysis of peripheral blood over 16 weeks post-transplantation in mice with different immunodeficiency backgrounds revealed efficient immune cell generation following transplantation of different amounts of modified HSCs. Therefore, a large-scale infusion of gene-corrected HSCs within a safe range can achieve rapid, stable, and durable immune cell regeneration. Tissue-section staining further demonstrated the restoration of immune organ tissue structures, with no tumor formation in multiple organs. Collectively, these data suggest that base-edited HSCs are a potential therapeutic approach for SCID-X1 and that a threshold infusion dose of gene-corrected cells is required for immune cell regeneration. This study lays a theoretical foundation for the clinical application of base-edited HSCs in treating SCID-X1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Zhang
- National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing 100081, China; National Human Genetic Resources Center, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Kai Li
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering and Collaborative Innovation Center for Genetics and Development, School of Life Sciences, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Human Phenome Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Zhiwei Liu
- Cambridge-Suda Genomic Resource Center, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Lisha An
- National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing 100081, China; National Human Genetic Resources Center, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Haikun Wei
- National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing 100081, China; National Human Genetic Resources Center, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Shanshan Pang
- National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing 100081, China; National Human Genetic Resources Center, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Zongfu Cao
- National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing 100081, China; National Human Genetic Resources Center, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Xingxu Huang
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Xiaohua Jin
- National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing 100081, China; National Human Genetic Resources Center, Beijing 102206, China.
| | - Xu Ma
- National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing 100081, China; National Human Genetic Resources Center, Beijing 102206, China.
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23
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McIvor RS, Eaton EJ, Webber BR, Moriarity BS. Advancing gene targeting for primary immune deficiencies: Adenine base editing of the human IL2RG locus for correction of SCID-X1. Mol Ther 2024; 32:1606-1608. [PMID: 38781958 PMCID: PMC11184398 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2024.05.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- R Scott McIvor
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA; Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA; Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA; Stem Cell Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.
| | - Ella J Eaton
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA; Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Beau R Webber
- Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA; Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA; Stem Cell Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA; Institute for Engineering in Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Branden S Moriarity
- Center for Genome Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA; Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA; Stem Cell Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA; Institute for Engineering in Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
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24
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Laurent M, Geoffroy M, Pavani G, Guiraud S. CRISPR-Based Gene Therapies: From Preclinical to Clinical Treatments. Cells 2024; 13:800. [PMID: 38786024 PMCID: PMC11119143 DOI: 10.3390/cells13100800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
In recent years, clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPRs) and CRISPR-associated (Cas) protein have emerged as a revolutionary gene editing tool to treat inherited disorders affecting different organ systems, such as blood and muscles. Both hematological and neuromuscular genetic disorders benefit from genome editing approaches but face different challenges in their clinical translation. The ability of CRISPR/Cas9 technologies to modify hematopoietic stem cells ex vivo has greatly accelerated the development of genetic therapies for blood disorders. In the last decade, many clinical trials were initiated and are now delivering encouraging results. The recent FDA approval of Casgevy, the first CRISPR/Cas9-based drug for severe sickle cell disease and transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia, represents a significant milestone in the field and highlights the great potential of this technology. Similar preclinical efforts are currently expanding CRISPR therapies to other hematologic disorders such as primary immunodeficiencies. In the neuromuscular field, the versatility of CRISPR/Cas9 has been instrumental for the generation of new cellular and animal models of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), offering innovative platforms to speed up preclinical development of therapeutic solutions. Several corrective interventions have been proposed to genetically restore dystrophin production using the CRISPR toolbox and have demonstrated promising results in different DMD animal models. Although these advances represent a significant step forward to the clinical translation of CRISPR/Cas9 therapies to DMD, there are still many hurdles to overcome, such as in vivo delivery methods associated with high viral vector doses, together with safety and immunological concerns. Collectively, the results obtained in the hematological and neuromuscular fields emphasize the transformative impact of CRISPR/Cas9 for patients affected by these debilitating conditions. As each field suffers from different and specific challenges, the clinical translation of CRISPR therapies may progress differentially depending on the genetic disorder. Ongoing investigations and clinical trials will address risks and limitations of these therapies, including long-term efficacy, potential genotoxicity, and adverse immune reactions. This review provides insights into the diverse applications of CRISPR-based technologies in both preclinical and clinical settings for monogenic blood disorders and muscular dystrophy and compare advances in both fields while highlighting current trends, difficulties, and challenges to overcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marine Laurent
- INTEGRARE, UMR_S951, Genethon, Inserm, Univ Evry, Université Paris-Saclay, 91190 Evry, France
| | | | - Giulia Pavani
- Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Simon Guiraud
- SQY Therapeutics, 78180 Montigny-le-Bretonneux, France
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25
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Mudde ACA, Kuo CY, Kohn DB, Booth C. What a Clinician Needs to Know About Genome Editing: Status and Opportunities for Inborn Errors of Immunity. THE JOURNAL OF ALLERGY AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY. IN PRACTICE 2024; 12:1139-1149. [PMID: 38246560 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaip.2024.01.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
During the past 20 years, gene editing has emerged as a novel form of gene therapy. Since the publication of the first potentially therapeutic gene editing platform for genetic disorders, increasingly sophisticated editing technologies have been developed. As with viral vector-mediated gene addition, inborn errors of immunity are excellent candidate diseases for a corrective autologous hematopoietic stem cell gene editing strategy. Research on gene editing for inborn errors of immunity is still entirely preclinical, with no trials yet underway. However, with editing techniques maturing, scientists are investigating this novel form of gene therapy in context of an increasing number of inborn errors of immunity. Here, we present an overview of these studies and the recent progress moving these technologies closer to clinical benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne C A Mudde
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, United Kingdom
| | - Caroline Y Kuo
- Department of Pediatrics, UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, Calif
| | - Donald B Kohn
- Department of Pediatrics, UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, Calif; Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, Calif
| | - Claire Booth
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, United Kingdom; Department of Paediatric Immunology and Gene Therapy, Great Ormond Street Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom.
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26
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Li JH, Zhou A, Lee CD, Shah SN, Ji JH, Senthilkumar V, Padilla ET, Ball AB, Feng Q, Bustillos CG, Riggan L, Greige A, Divakaruni AS, Annese F, Cooley Coleman JA, Skinner SA, Cowan CW, O'Sullivan TE. MEF2C regulates NK cell effector functions through control of lipid metabolism. Nat Immunol 2024; 25:778-789. [PMID: 38589619 DOI: 10.1038/s41590-024-01811-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are a critical first line of defense against viral infection. Rare mutations in a small subset of transcription factors can result in decreased NK cell numbers and function in humans, with an associated increased susceptibility to viral infection. However, our understanding of the specific transcription factors governing mature human NK cell function is limited. Here we use a non-viral CRISPR-Cas9 knockout screen targeting genes encoding 31 transcription factors differentially expressed during human NK cell development. We identify myocyte enhancer factor 2C (MEF2C) as a master regulator of human NK cell functionality ex vivo. MEF2C-haploinsufficient patients and mice displayed defects in NK cell development and effector function, with an increased susceptibility to viral infection. Mechanistically, MEF2C was required for an interleukin (IL)-2- and IL-15-mediated increase in lipid content through regulation of sterol regulatory element-binding protein (SREBP) pathways. Supplementation with oleic acid restored MEF2C-deficient and MEF2C-haploinsufficient patient NK cell cytotoxic function. Therefore, MEF2C is a critical orchestrator of NK cell antiviral immunity by regulating SREBP-mediated lipid metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joey H Li
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Adalia Zhou
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Cassidy D Lee
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Siya N Shah
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jeong Hyun Ji
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Vignesh Senthilkumar
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Eddie T Padilla
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Andréa B Ball
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Qinyan Feng
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Christian G Bustillos
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Luke Riggan
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Alain Greige
- Department of Neuroscience, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Ajit S Divakaruni
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Fran Annese
- Greenwood Genetic Center, Greenwood, SC, USA
| | | | | | - Christopher W Cowan
- Department of Neuroscience, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Timothy E O'Sullivan
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
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27
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Deneault E. Recent Therapeutic Gene Editing Applications to Genetic Disorders. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2024; 46:4147-4185. [PMID: 38785523 PMCID: PMC11119904 DOI: 10.3390/cimb46050255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Recent years have witnessed unprecedented progress in therapeutic gene editing, revolutionizing the approach to treating genetic disorders. In this comprehensive review, we discuss the progression of milestones leading to the emergence of the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-based technology as a powerful tool for precise and targeted modifications of the human genome. CRISPR-Cas9 nuclease, base editing, and prime editing have taken center stage, demonstrating remarkable precision and efficacy in targeted ex vivo and in vivo genomic modifications. Enhanced delivery systems, including viral vectors and nanoparticles, have further improved the efficiency and safety of therapeutic gene editing, advancing their clinical translatability. The exploration of CRISPR-Cas systems beyond the commonly used Cas9, such as the development of Cas12 and Cas13 variants, has expanded the repertoire of gene editing tools, enabling more intricate modifications and therapeutic interventions. Outstandingly, prime editing represents a significant leap forward, given its unparalleled versatility and minimization of off-target effects. These innovations have paved the way for therapeutic gene editing in a multitude of previously incurable genetic disorders, ranging from monogenic diseases to complex polygenic conditions. This review highlights the latest innovative studies in the field, emphasizing breakthrough technologies in preclinical and clinical trials, and their applications in the realm of precision medicine. However, challenges such as off-target effects and ethical considerations remain, necessitating continued research to refine safety profiles and ethical frameworks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Deneault
- Regulatory Research Division, Centre for Oncology, Radiopharmaceuticals and Research, Biologic and Radiopharmaceutical Drugs Directorate, Health Products and Food Branch, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON K1A 0K9, Canada
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28
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Hicks ED, Keller MD. Mending RAG2: gene editing for treatment of RAG2 deficiency. Blood Adv 2024; 8:1817-1819. [PMID: 38592712 PMCID: PMC11006806 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2023012079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth D Hicks
- Division of Allergy & Immunology, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC
| | - Michael D Keller
- Division of Allergy & Immunology, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC
- Center for Cancer and Immunology Research, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC
- GW Cancer Center, George Washington University School of Medicine, Washington, DC
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29
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Rai R, Steinberg Z, Romito M, Zinghirino F, Hu YT, White N, Naseem A, Thrasher AJ, Turchiano G, Cavazza A. CRISPR/Cas9-Based Disease Modeling and Functional Correction of Interleukin 7 Receptor Alpha Severe Combined Immunodeficiency in T-Lymphocytes and Hematopoietic Stem Cells. Hum Gene Ther 2024; 35:269-283. [PMID: 38251667 PMCID: PMC11698663 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2023.100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Interleukin 7 Receptor alpha Severe Combined Immunodeficiency (IL7R-SCID) is a life-threatening disorder caused by homozygous mutations in the IL7RA gene. Defective IL7R expression in humans hampers T cell precursors' proliferation and differentiation during lymphopoiesis resulting in the absence of T cells in newborns, who succumb to severe infections and death early after birth. Previous attempts to tackle IL7R-SCID by viral gene therapy have shown that unregulated IL7R expression predisposes to leukemia, suggesting the application of targeted gene editing to insert a correct copy of the IL7RA gene in its genomic locus and mediate its physiological expression as a more feasible therapeutic approach. To this aim, we have first developed a CRISPR/Cas9-based IL7R-SCID disease modeling system that recapitulates the disease phenotype in primary human T cells and hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs). Then, we have designed a knockin strategy that targets IL7RA exon 1 and introduces through homology-directed repair a corrective, promoterless IL7RA cDNA followed by a reporter cassette through AAV6 transduction. Targeted integration of the corrective cassette in primary T cells restored IL7R expression and rescued functional downstream IL7R signaling. When applied to HSPCs further induced to differentiate into T cells in an Artificial Thymic Organoid system, our gene editing strategy overcame the T cell developmental block observed in IL7R-SCID patients, while promoting full maturation of T cells with physiological and developmentally regulated IL7R expression. Finally, genotoxicity assessment of the CRISPR/Cas9 platform in HSPCs using biased and unbiased technologies confirmed the safety of the strategy, paving the way for a new, efficient, and safe therapeutic option for IL7R-SCID patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajeev Rai
- Infection, Immunity, and Inflammation Teaching and Research Department, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Zohar Steinberg
- Infection, Immunity, and Inflammation Teaching and Research Department, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Marianna Romito
- Infection, Immunity, and Inflammation Teaching and Research Department, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Federica Zinghirino
- Infection, Immunity, and Inflammation Teaching and Research Department, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Yi-Ting Hu
- Infection, Immunity, and Inflammation Teaching and Research Department, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Nathan White
- Infection, Immunity, and Inflammation Teaching and Research Department, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Asma Naseem
- Infection, Immunity, and Inflammation Teaching and Research Department, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Adrian J. Thrasher
- Infection, Immunity, and Inflammation Teaching and Research Department, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research Center, London, United Kingdom
| | - Giandomenico Turchiano
- Infection, Immunity, and Inflammation Teaching and Research Department, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Alessia Cavazza
- Infection, Immunity, and Inflammation Teaching and Research Department, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research Center, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children and Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia School of Medicine, Modena, Italy
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30
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Lazzarotto CR, Katta V, Li Y, Urbina E, Lee G, Tsai SQ. CHANGE-seq-BE enables simultaneously sensitive and unbiased in vitro profiling of base editor genome-wide activity. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.03.28.586621. [PMID: 38585919 PMCID: PMC10996588 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.28.586621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Base editors ( BE ) enable programmable conversion of nucleotides in genomic DNA without double-stranded breaks and have substantial promise to become new transformative genome editing medicines. Sensitive and unbiased detection of base editor off-target effects is important for identifying safety risks unique to base editors and translation to human therapeutics, as well as accurate use in life sciences research. However, current methods for understanding the global activities of base editors have limitations in terms of sensitivity or bias. Here we present CHANGE-seq-BE, a novel method to directly assess the off-target profile of base editors that is simultaneously sensitive and unbiased. CHANGE-seq-BE is based on the principle of selective sequencing of adenine base editor modified genomic DNA in vitro , and provides an accessible, rapid, and comprehensive method for identifying genome-wide off-target mutations of base editors.
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31
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Xu F, Zheng C, Xu W, Zhang S, Liu S, Chen X, Yao K. Breaking genetic shackles: The advance of base editing in genetic disorder treatment. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1364135. [PMID: 38510648 PMCID: PMC10953296 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1364135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
The rapid evolution of gene editing technology has markedly improved the outlook for treating genetic diseases. Base editing, recognized as an exceptionally precise genetic modification tool, is emerging as a focus in the realm of genetic disease therapy. We provide a comprehensive overview of the fundamental principles and delivery methods of cytosine base editors (CBE), adenine base editors (ABE), and RNA base editors, with a particular focus on their applications and recent research advances in the treatment of genetic diseases. We have also explored the potential challenges faced by base editing technology in treatment, including aspects such as targeting specificity, safety, and efficacy, and have enumerated a series of possible solutions to propel the clinical translation of base editing technology. In conclusion, this article not only underscores the present state of base editing technology but also envisions its tremendous potential in the future, providing a novel perspective on the treatment of genetic diseases. It underscores the vast potential of base editing technology in the realm of genetic medicine, providing support for the progression of gene medicine and the development of innovative approaches to genetic disease therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Xu
- Institute of Visual Neuroscience and Stem Cell Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Caiyan Zheng
- Institute of Visual Neuroscience and Stem Cell Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Weihui Xu
- Institute of Visual Neuroscience and Stem Cell Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Shiyao Zhang
- Institute of Visual Neuroscience and Stem Cell Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Shanshan Liu
- Institute of Visual Neuroscience and Stem Cell Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaopeng Chen
- Institute of Visual Neuroscience and Stem Cell Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Kai Yao
- Institute of Visual Neuroscience and Stem Cell Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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32
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Aranda CS, Gouveia-Pereira MP, da Silva CJM, Rizzo MCFV, Ishizuka E, de Oliveira EB, Condino-Neto A. Severe combined immunodeficiency diagnosis and genetic defects. Immunol Rev 2024; 322:138-147. [PMID: 38287514 DOI: 10.1111/imr.13310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Abstract
Severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) is a rare and life-threatening genetic disorder that severely impairs the immune system's ability to defend the body against infections. Often referred to as the "bubble boy" disease, SCID gained widespread recognition due to the case of David Vetter, a young boy who lived in a sterile plastic bubble to protect him from germs. SCID is typically present at birth, and it results from genetic mutations that affect the development and function of immune cells, particularly T cells and B cells. These immune cells are essential for identifying and fighting off infections caused by viruses, bacteria, and fungi. In SCID patients, the immune system is virtually non-existent, leaving them highly susceptible to recurrent, severe infections. There are several forms of SCID, with varying degrees of severity, but all share common features. Newborns with SCID often exhibit symptoms such as chronic diarrhea, thrush, skin rashes, and persistent infections that do not respond to standard treatments. Without prompt diagnosis and intervention, SCID can lead to life-threatening complications and a high risk of mortality. There are over 20 possible affected genes. Treatment options for SCID primarily involve immune reconstitution, with the most well-known approach being hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Alternatively, gene therapy is also available for some forms of SCID. Once treated successfully, SCID patients can lead relatively normal lives, but they may still require vigilant infection control measures and lifelong medical follow-up to manage potential complications. In conclusion, severe combined immunodeficiency is a rare but life-threatening genetic disorder that severely compromises the immune system's function, rendering affected individuals highly vulnerable to infections. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are fundamental. With this respect, newborn screening is progressively and dramatically improving the prognosis of SCID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Sanchez Aranda
- Division of Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Federal University of São Paulo Medical School-UNIFESP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mariana Pimentel Gouveia-Pereira
- Division of Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Federal University of São Paulo Medical School-UNIFESP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Celso Jose Mendanha da Silva
- Division of Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Federal University of São Paulo Medical School-UNIFESP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maria Candida Faria Varanda Rizzo
- Division of Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Federal University of São Paulo Medical School-UNIFESP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | - Antonio Condino-Neto
- Department of Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, Instituto Jo Clemente, and Immunogenic Laboratories, São Paulo, Brazil
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Castiello MC, Brandas C, Ferrari S, Porcellini S, Sacchetti N, Canarutto D, Draghici E, Merelli I, Barcella M, Pelosi G, Vavassori V, Varesi A, Jacob A, Scala S, Basso Ricci L, Paulis M, Strina D, Di Verniere M, Sergi Sergi L, Serafini M, Holland SM, Bergerson JRE, De Ravin SS, Malech HL, Pala F, Bosticardo M, Brombin C, Cugnata F, Calzoni E, Crooks GM, Notarangelo LD, Genovese P, Naldini L, Villa A. Exonic knockout and knockin gene editing in hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells rescues RAG1 immunodeficiency. Sci Transl Med 2024; 16:eadh8162. [PMID: 38324638 PMCID: PMC11149094 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.adh8162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
Recombination activating genes (RAGs) are tightly regulated during lymphoid differentiation, and their mutations cause a spectrum of severe immunological disorders. Hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell (HSPC) transplantation is the treatment of choice but is limited by donor availability and toxicity. To overcome these issues, we developed gene editing strategies targeting a corrective sequence into the human RAG1 gene by homology-directed repair (HDR) and validated them by tailored two-dimensional, three-dimensional, and in vivo xenotransplant platforms to assess rescue of expression and function. Whereas integration into intron 1 of RAG1 achieved suboptimal correction, in-frame insertion into exon 2 drove physiologic human RAG1 expression and activity, allowing disruption of the dominant-negative effects of unrepaired hypomorphic alleles. Enhanced HDR-mediated gene editing enabled the correction of human RAG1 in HSPCs from patients with hypomorphic RAG1 mutations to overcome T and B cell differentiation blocks. Gene correction efficiency exceeded the minimal proportion of functional HSPCs required to rescue immunodeficiency in Rag1-/- mice, supporting the clinical translation of HSPC gene editing for the treatment of RAG1 deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Carmina Castiello
- San Raffaele-Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-Tiget), IRCSS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan 20132, Italy
- Milan Unit, Istituto di Ricerca Genetica e Biomedica (IRGB), Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), Rozzano (MI) 20089, Italy
| | - Chiara Brandas
- San Raffaele-Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-Tiget), IRCSS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan 20132, Italy
- Translational and Molecular Medicine (DIMET), University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza 20900, Italy
| | - Samuele Ferrari
- San Raffaele-Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-Tiget), IRCSS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan 20132, Italy
| | - Simona Porcellini
- San Raffaele-Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-Tiget), IRCSS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan 20132, Italy
| | - Nicolò Sacchetti
- San Raffaele-Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-Tiget), IRCSS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan 20132, Italy
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan 20132, Italy
| | - Daniele Canarutto
- San Raffaele-Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-Tiget), IRCSS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan 20132, Italy
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan 20132, Italy
- Pediatric Immunohematology Unit and BMT Program, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan 20132, Italy
| | - Elena Draghici
- San Raffaele-Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-Tiget), IRCSS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan 20132, Italy
| | - Ivan Merelli
- San Raffaele-Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-Tiget), IRCSS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan 20132, Italy
- National Research Council (CNR), Institute for Biomedical Technologies, Segrate (MI) 20054, Italy
| | - Matteo Barcella
- San Raffaele-Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-Tiget), IRCSS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan 20132, Italy
- National Research Council (CNR), Institute for Biomedical Technologies, Segrate (MI) 20054, Italy
| | - Gabriele Pelosi
- San Raffaele-Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-Tiget), IRCSS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan 20132, Italy
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan 20132, Italy
| | - Valentina Vavassori
- San Raffaele-Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-Tiget), IRCSS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan 20132, Italy
| | - Angelica Varesi
- San Raffaele-Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-Tiget), IRCSS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan 20132, Italy
| | - Aurelien Jacob
- San Raffaele-Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-Tiget), IRCSS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan 20132, Italy
| | - Serena Scala
- San Raffaele-Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-Tiget), IRCSS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan 20132, Italy
| | - Luca Basso Ricci
- San Raffaele-Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-Tiget), IRCSS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan 20132, Italy
| | - Marianna Paulis
- Milan Unit, Istituto di Ricerca Genetica e Biomedica (IRGB), Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), Rozzano (MI) 20089, Italy
- Humanitas Clinical and Research Center IRCCS, Rozzano (MI) 20089, Italy
| | - Dario Strina
- Milan Unit, Istituto di Ricerca Genetica e Biomedica (IRGB), Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), Rozzano (MI) 20089, Italy
- Humanitas Clinical and Research Center IRCCS, Rozzano (MI) 20089, Italy
| | - Martina Di Verniere
- San Raffaele-Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-Tiget), IRCSS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan 20132, Italy
- Milan Unit, Istituto di Ricerca Genetica e Biomedica (IRGB), Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), Rozzano (MI) 20089, Italy
| | - Lucia Sergi Sergi
- San Raffaele-Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-Tiget), IRCSS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan 20132, Italy
| | - Marta Serafini
- Translational and Molecular Medicine (DIMET), University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza 20900, Italy
- Tettamanti Center, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza (MI) 20900, Italy
| | - Steven M Holland
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, NIAID, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Jenna R E Bergerson
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, NIAID, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Suk See De Ravin
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, NIAID, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Harry L Malech
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, NIAID, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Francesca Pala
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, NIAID, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Marita Bosticardo
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, NIAID, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Chiara Brombin
- University Center for Statistics in the Biomedical Sciences, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan 20132, Italy
| | - Federica Cugnata
- University Center for Statistics in the Biomedical Sciences, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan 20132, Italy
| | - Enrica Calzoni
- San Raffaele-Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-Tiget), IRCSS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan 20132, Italy
| | - Gay M Crooks
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Luigi D Notarangelo
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, NIAID, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Pietro Genovese
- San Raffaele-Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-Tiget), IRCSS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan 20132, Italy
- Gene Therapy Program, Dana-Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Luigi Naldini
- San Raffaele-Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-Tiget), IRCSS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan 20132, Italy
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan 20132, Italy
| | - Anna Villa
- San Raffaele-Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-Tiget), IRCSS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan 20132, Italy
- Milan Unit, Istituto di Ricerca Genetica e Biomedica (IRGB), Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), Rozzano (MI) 20089, Italy
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34
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Chen Y, Luo X, Kang R, Cui K, Ou J, Zhang X, Liang P. Current therapies for osteoarthritis and prospects of CRISPR-based genome, epigenome, and RNA editing in osteoarthritis treatment. J Genet Genomics 2024; 51:159-183. [PMID: 37516348 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgg.2023.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/31/2023]
Abstract
Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common degenerative joint diseases worldwide, causing pain, disability, and decreased quality of life. The balance between regeneration and inflammation-induced degradation results in multiple etiologies and complex pathogenesis of OA. Currently, there is a lack of effective therapeutic strategies for OA treatment. With the development of CRISPR-based genome, epigenome, and RNA editing tools, OA treatment has been improved by targeting genetic risk factors, activating chondrogenic elements, and modulating inflammatory regulators. Supported by cell therapy and in vivo delivery vectors, genome, epigenome, and RNA editing tools may provide a promising approach for personalized OA therapy. This review summarizes CRISPR-based genome, epigenome, and RNA editing tools that can be applied to the treatment of OA and provides insights into the development of CRISPR-based therapeutics for OA treatment. Moreover, in-depth evaluations of the efficacy and safety of these tools in human OA treatment are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxi Chen
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510275, China
| | - Xiao Luo
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510275, China
| | - Rui Kang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510275, China
| | - Kaixin Cui
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510275, China
| | - Jianping Ou
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510630, China
| | - Xiya Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510630, China.
| | - Puping Liang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510275, China.
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35
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Park CS, Habib O, Lee Y, Hur JK. Applications of CRISPR technologies to the development of gene and cell therapy. BMB Rep 2024; 57:2-11. [PMID: 38178651 PMCID: PMC10828430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Advancements in gene and cell therapy have resulted in novel therapeutics for diseases previously considered incurable or challenging to treat. Among the various contributing technologies, genome editing stands out as one of the most crucial for the progress in gene and cell therapy. The discovery of CRISPR (Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats) and the subsequent evolution of genetic engineering technology have markedly expanded the field of target-specific gene editing. Originally studied in the immune systems of bacteria and archaea, the CRISPR system has demonstrated wide applicability to effective genome editing of various biological systems including human cells. The development of CRISPR-based base editing has enabled directional cytosine-tothymine and adenine-to-guanine substitutions of select DNA bases at the target locus. Subsequent advances in prime editing further elevated the flexibility of the edit multiple consecutive bases to desired sequences. The recent CRISPR technologies also have been actively utilized for the development of in vivo and ex vivo gene and cell therapies. We anticipate that the medical applications of CRISPR will rapidly progress to provide unprecedented possibilities to develop novel therapeutics towards various diseases. [BMB Reports 2024; 57(1): 2-11].
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Affiliation(s)
- Chul-Sung Park
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Korea
| | - Omer Habib
- Division of R&D, RedGene Inc., Seoul 08790, Korea
| | - Younsu Lee
- Division of R&D, RedGene Inc., Seoul 08790, Korea
| | - Junho K. Hur
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Korea
- Department of Genetics, College of Medicine, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Korea
- Hanyang Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Korea
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36
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From AI to the Y chromosome (and everything in between). Nat Biotechnol 2023; 41:1661-1662. [PMID: 38049559 DOI: 10.1038/s41587-023-02076-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/06/2023]
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37
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Zhou X, Renauer PA, Zhou L, Fang SY, Chen S. Applications of CRISPR technology in cellular immunotherapy. Immunol Rev 2023; 320:199-216. [PMID: 37449673 PMCID: PMC10787818 DOI: 10.1111/imr.13241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
CRISPR technology has transformed multiple fields, including cancer and immunology. CRISPR-based gene editing and screening empowers direct genomic manipulation of immune cells, opening doors to unbiased functional genetic screens. These screens aid in the discovery of novel factors that regulate and reprogram immune responses, offering novel drug targets. The engineering of immune cells using CRISPR has sparked a transformation in the cellular immunotherapy field, resulting in a multitude of ongoing clinical trials. In this review, we discuss the development and applications of CRISPR and related gene editing technologies in immune cells, focusing on functional genomics screening, gene editing-based cell therapies, as well as future directions in this rapidly advancing field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyu Zhou
- Department of Genetics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- System Biology Institute, Yale University, West Haven, CT, USA
- Center for Cancer Systems Biology, Yale University, West Haven, CT, USA
| | - Paul A. Renauer
- Department of Genetics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- System Biology Institute, Yale University, West Haven, CT, USA
- Center for Cancer Systems Biology, Yale University, West Haven, CT, USA
| | - Liqun Zhou
- Department of Genetics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- System Biology Institute, Yale University, West Haven, CT, USA
- Center for Cancer Systems Biology, Yale University, West Haven, CT, USA
- Immunobiology Program, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Shao-Yu Fang
- Department of Genetics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- System Biology Institute, Yale University, West Haven, CT, USA
- Center for Cancer Systems Biology, Yale University, West Haven, CT, USA
| | - Sidi Chen
- Department of Genetics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- System Biology Institute, Yale University, West Haven, CT, USA
- Center for Cancer Systems Biology, Yale University, West Haven, CT, USA
- Immunobiology Program, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
- Molecular Cell Biology, Genetics, and Development Program, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Stem Cell Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Center for Biomedical Data Science, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
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38
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Zhu WS, Wheeler BD, Ansel KM. RNA circuits and RNA-binding proteins in T cells. Trends Immunol 2023; 44:792-806. [PMID: 37599172 PMCID: PMC10890840 DOI: 10.1016/j.it.2023.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
RNA is integral to the regulatory circuits that control cell identity and behavior. Cis-regulatory elements in mRNAs interact with RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) that can alter RNA sequence, stability, and translation into protein. Similarly, long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) scaffold ribonucleoprotein complexes that mediate transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression. Indeed, cell programming is fundamental to multicellular life and, in this era of cellular therapies, it is of particular interest in T cells. Here, we review key concepts and recent advances in our understanding of the RNA circuits and RBPs that govern mammalian T cell differentiation and immune function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wandi S Zhu
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Sandler Asthma Basic Research Center, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Benjamin D Wheeler
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Sandler Asthma Basic Research Center, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - K Mark Ansel
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Sandler Asthma Basic Research Center, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA.
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39
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Ha TC, Morgan M, Schambach A. Base editing: a novel cure for severe combined immunodeficiency. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:354. [PMID: 37718346 PMCID: PMC10505606 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01586-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Teng-Cheong Ha
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, 30625, Germany
- REBIRTH Research Center for Translational Regenerative Medicine, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, 30625, Germany
| | - Michael Morgan
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, 30625, Germany
- REBIRTH Research Center for Translational Regenerative Medicine, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, 30625, Germany
| | - Axel Schambach
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, 30625, Germany.
- REBIRTH Research Center for Translational Regenerative Medicine, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, 30625, Germany.
- Division of Hematology / Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
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40
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Frost I, Mendoza AM, Chiou TT, Kim P, Aizenberg J, Kohn DB, De Oliveira SN, Weiss PS, Jonas SJ. Fluorinated Silane-Modified Filtroporation Devices Enable Gene Knockout in Human Hematopoietic Stem and Progenitor Cells. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2023; 15:41299-41309. [PMID: 37616579 PMCID: PMC10485797 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c07045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
Intracellular delivery technologies that are cost-effective, non-cytotoxic, efficient, and cargo-agnostic are needed to enable the manufacturing of cell-based therapies as well as gene manipulation for research applications. Current technologies capable of delivering large cargoes, such as plasmids and CRISPR-Cas9 ribonucleoproteins (RNPs), are plagued with high costs and/or cytotoxicity and often require substantial specialized equipment and reagents, which may not be available in resource-limited settings. Here, we report an intracellular delivery technology that can be assembled from materials available in most research laboratories, thus democratizing access to intracellular delivery for researchers and clinicians in low-resource areas of the world. These filtroporation devices permeabilize cells by pulling them through the pores of a cell culture insert by the application of vacuum available in biosafety cabinets. In a format that costs less than $10 in materials per experiment, we demonstrate the delivery of fluorescently labeled dextran, expression plasmids, and RNPs for gene knockout to Jurkat cells and human CD34+ hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell populations with delivery efficiencies of up to 40% for RNP knockout and viabilities of >80%. We show that functionalizing the surfaces of the filters with fluorinated silane moieties further enhances the delivery efficiency. These devices are capable of processing 500,000 to 4 million cells per experiment, and when combined with a 3D-printed vacuum application chamber, this throughput can be straightforwardly increased 6-12-fold in parallel experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isaura
M. Frost
- Department
of Bioengineering, University of California,
Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
- UCLA
Medical Scientist Training Program, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
- Department
of Pediatrics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
| | - Alexandra M. Mendoza
- Department
of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University
of California, Los Angeles, Los
Angeles, California 90095, United States
- California
NanoSystems Institute, University of California,
Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
| | - Tzu-Ting Chiou
- Department
of Pediatrics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
| | - Philseok Kim
- John A. Paulson
School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02138, United States
| | - Joanna Aizenberg
- John A. Paulson
School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02138, United States
| | - Donald B. Kohn
- Department
of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, University
of California, Los Angeles, Los
Angeles, California 90095, United States
- Department
of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
- Eli
and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
| | - Satiro N. De Oliveira
- Department
of Pediatrics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
| | - Paul S. Weiss
- Department
of Bioengineering, University of California,
Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
- Department
of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University
of California, Los Angeles, Los
Angeles, California 90095, United States
- California
NanoSystems Institute, University of California,
Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
- Department
of Materials Science and Engineering, University
of California, Los Angeles, Los
Angeles, California 90095, United States
| | - Steven J. Jonas
- Department
of Pediatrics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
- California
NanoSystems Institute, University of California,
Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
- Eli
and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
- Children’s
Discovery and Innovation Institute, University
of California, Los Angeles, Los
Angeles, California 90095, United States
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41
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Cao G, Zhu X, Lin Y, Fang J, Shen X, Wang S, Kong N. A novel homozygous variant in PADI6 is associate with human cleavage-stage embryonic arrest. Front Genet 2023; 14:1243230. [PMID: 37712067 PMCID: PMC10497744 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2023.1243230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Repeated absence of useable embryos is a difficult problem for infertility patients. Among them, embryonic developmental arrest is more common, but the genetic cause is not known. The embryos of a patient who came to our hospital three times could not develop beyond the four-cell stage. In addition to recording the developmental details of the embryos by daily photo-taking, the PADI6 R132C homozygous variants was further confirmed by whole-exome sequencing. Subsequently, PADI6 R132C was analyzed by bioinformatics methods for conservativeness across species. In addition, the possible impact of the pathogenic mutation on the structure of the protein PADI6 were also assessed. Generally, we identified a homozygous variants [NM_207421.4, c.394C>T(p.R132C] in the middle protein-arginine deiminase domain in PADI6 gene. The homozygous variant is highly conserved across species. Homozygous variant in PADI6 R132C could cause a human cleavage-stage embryonic arrest in female patients. These findings provide further evidence for the important roles of the homozygous PADI6R132C variant in embryonic development. Our findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the molecular genetic basis of female infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guangyi Cao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
- Center for Molecular Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiangyu Zhu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuling Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Junshun Fang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
- Center for Molecular Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaoyue Shen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
- Center for Molecular Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Shanshan Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
- Center for Molecular Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Na Kong
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
- Center for Molecular Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
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42
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Qin H, Xu W, Yao K. CRISPR-based genome editing in disease treatment. Trends Mol Med 2023:S1471-4914(23)00093-X. [PMID: 37263857 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2023.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2023] [Revised: 05/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Huan Qin
- Institute of Visual Neuroscience and Stem Cell Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Weihui Xu
- Institute of Visual Neuroscience and Stem Cell Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Kai Yao
- Institute of Visual Neuroscience and Stem Cell Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
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43
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Malech HL, Notarangelo LD. Gene therapy for inborn errors of immunity: Base editing comes into play. Cell 2023; 186:1302-1304. [PMID: 37001495 PMCID: PMC10364572 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2023.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
CRISPR-Cas9-based base editing allows precise base editing to achieve conversion of adenosine to guanine or cytosine to thymidine. In this issue of Cell, McAuley et al. use adenine base editing to correct a single base-pair mutation causing human CD3δ deficiency, demonstrating superior efficiency of genetic correction with reduced undesired genetic alterations compared with standard CRISPR-Cas9 editing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harry L Malech
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
| | - Luigi D Notarangelo
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
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