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Moyo B, Brown LBC, Khondaker II, Bao G. Engineering adeno-associated viral vectors for CRISPR/Cas based in vivo therapeutic genome editing. Biomaterials 2025; 321:123314. [PMID: 40203649 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2025.123314] [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: 12/23/2024] [Revised: 03/30/2025] [Accepted: 04/01/2025] [Indexed: 04/11/2025]
Abstract
The recent approval of the first gene editing therapy for sickle cell disease and transfusion-dependent beta-thalassemia by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) demonstrates the immense potential of CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats) technologies to treat patients with genetic disorders that were previously considered incurable. While significant advancements have been made with ex vivo gene editing approaches, the development of in vivo CRISPR/Cas gene editing therapies has not progressed as rapidly due to significant challenges in achieving highly efficient and specific in vivo delivery. Adeno-associated viral (AAV) vectors have shown great promise in clinical trials as vehicles for delivering therapeutic transgenes and other cargos but currently face multiple limitations for effective delivery of gene editing machineries. This review elucidates these challenges and highlights the latest engineering strategies aimed at improving the efficiency, specificity, and safety profiles of AAV-packaged CRISPR/Cas systems (AAV-CRISPR) to enhance their clinical utility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Buhle Moyo
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Lucas B C Brown
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, 77030, USA; Graduate Program in Systems, Synthetic, and Physical Biology, Rice University, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Ishika I Khondaker
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, 77030, USA; Medical Scientist Training Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Gang Bao
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
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2
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Biber J, Gandor C, Becirovic E, Michalakis S. Retina-directed gene therapy: Achievements and remaining challenges. Pharmacol Ther 2025; 271:108862. [PMID: 40268248 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2025.108862] [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: 10/07/2024] [Revised: 02/07/2025] [Accepted: 04/14/2025] [Indexed: 04/25/2025]
Abstract
Gene therapy is an innovative medical approach that offers new treatment options for congenital and acquired diseases by transferring, correcting, inactivating or regulating genes to supplement, replace or modify a gene function. The approval of voretigene neparvovec (Luxturna), a gene therapy for RPE65-associated retinopathy, has marked a milestone for the field of retinal gene therapy, but has also helped to accelerate the development of gene therapies for genetic diseases affecting other organs. Voretigene neparvovec is a vector based on adeno-associated virus (AAV) that delivers a functional copy of RPE65 to supplement the missing function of this gene. The AAV-based gene delivery has proven to be versatile and safe for the transfer of genetic material to retinal cells. However, challenges remain in treating additional inherited as well as acquired retinopathies with this technology. Despite the high level of activity in this field, no other AAV gene therapy for retinal diseases has been approved since voretigene neparvovec. Ongoing research focuses on overcoming the current restraints through innovative strategies like AAV capsid engineering, dual-AAV vector systems, or CRISPR/Cas-mediated genome editing. Additionally, AAV gene therapy is being explored for the treatment of complex acquired diseases like age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and diabetic retinopathy (DR) by targeting molecules involved in the pathobiology of the degenerative processes. This review outlines the current state of retinal gene therapy, highlighting ongoing challenges and future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josef Biber
- Department of Ophthalmology, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, 80336 Munich, Germany
| | - Catharina Gandor
- Laboratory for Retinal Gene Therapy, Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Schlieren 8952, Switzerland
| | - Elvir Becirovic
- Laboratory for Retinal Gene Therapy, Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Schlieren 8952, Switzerland
| | - Stylianos Michalakis
- Department of Ophthalmology, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, 80336 Munich, Germany.
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3
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Jiao B, Yan L, Zhang R, Huang W, Wang X, Liu C, Wang P, Xu P, Wang J, Fang Z, Li D, Xia Z, Li J, Ji S, Zhang Q, Wu M, Wang S, Liu P, Ren R. Loss of Golga7 Suppresses Oncogenic Nras-Driven Leukemogenesis without Detectable Toxicity in Adult Mice. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2025; 12:e2412208. [PMID: 40091521 PMCID: PMC12079550 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202412208] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2024] [Revised: 01/24/2025] [Indexed: 03/19/2025]
Abstract
NRAS mutations are prevalent in human hematological malignancies and are also common in certain solid tumors, including melanoma and colon cancer. Despite their crucial role in oncogenesis, no effective therapies targeting NRAS have been developed. Inhibiting NRAS localization to the plasma membrane (PM) represents a promising strategy for cancer therapy, as its oncogenic signaling relies on PM localization. Knocking out Golgin subfamily A member 7 (Golga7), an accessory protein of RAS palmitoyltransferases, through a conditional gene editing approach drastically suppresses the development of myeloid leukemia induced by the activation of NrasG12D/G12D knock-in alleles in mice. The loss of Golga7 disrupts NRASG12D PM localization in bone marrow cells without altering the level of NRASG12D palmitoylation. Notably, Golga7 is dispensable for normal hematopoiesis in adult mice. While constitutive Golga7 knockout leads to embryonic lethality, the ubiquitous knockout of Golga7 induced in adult mice does not manifest any measurable toxic effects. These findings indicate that GOLGA7 is an effective and safe therapeutic target for NRAS-driven leukemias.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Jiao
- Shanghai Institute of HematologyState Key Laboratory of Medical GenomicsNational Research Center for Translational Medicine at ShanghaiRuijin HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai200025China
| | - Lei Yan
- Shanghai Institute of HematologyState Key Laboratory of Medical GenomicsNational Research Center for Translational Medicine at ShanghaiRuijin HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai200025China
| | - Rui Zhang
- Shanghai Institute of HematologyState Key Laboratory of Medical GenomicsNational Research Center for Translational Medicine at ShanghaiRuijin HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai200025China
| | - Wei Huang
- Shanghai Institute of HematologyState Key Laboratory of Medical GenomicsNational Research Center for Translational Medicine at ShanghaiRuijin HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai200025China
| | - Xinru Wang
- Shanghai Institute of HematologyState Key Laboratory of Medical GenomicsNational Research Center for Translational Medicine at ShanghaiRuijin HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai200025China
| | - Chenxuan Liu
- Shanghai Institute of HematologyState Key Laboratory of Medical GenomicsNational Research Center for Translational Medicine at ShanghaiRuijin HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai200025China
| | - Peihong Wang
- Shanghai Institute of HematologyState Key Laboratory of Medical GenomicsNational Research Center for Translational Medicine at ShanghaiRuijin HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai200025China
| | - Pengfei Xu
- Shanghai Institute of HematologyState Key Laboratory of Medical GenomicsNational Research Center for Translational Medicine at ShanghaiRuijin HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai200025China
| | - Jinzeng Wang
- Shanghai Institute of HematologyState Key Laboratory of Medical GenomicsNational Research Center for Translational Medicine at ShanghaiRuijin HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai200025China
| | - Zhou Fang
- Shanghai Institute of HematologyState Key Laboratory of Medical GenomicsNational Research Center for Translational Medicine at ShanghaiRuijin HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai200025China
| | - Donghe Li
- Shanghai Institute of HematologyState Key Laboratory of Medical GenomicsNational Research Center for Translational Medicine at ShanghaiRuijin HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai200025China
| | - Zhizhou Xia
- Shanghai Institute of HematologyState Key Laboratory of Medical GenomicsNational Research Center for Translational Medicine at ShanghaiRuijin HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai200025China
| | - Jiaoyang Li
- Shanghai Institute of HematologyState Key Laboratory of Medical GenomicsNational Research Center for Translational Medicine at ShanghaiRuijin HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai200025China
| | - Shiyu Ji
- Shanghai Institute of HematologyState Key Laboratory of Medical GenomicsNational Research Center for Translational Medicine at ShanghaiRuijin HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai200025China
| | - Qianqian Zhang
- Shanghai Institute of HematologyState Key Laboratory of Medical GenomicsNational Research Center for Translational Medicine at ShanghaiRuijin HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai200025China
| | - Min Wu
- Shanghai Institute of HematologyState Key Laboratory of Medical GenomicsNational Research Center for Translational Medicine at ShanghaiRuijin HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai200025China
| | - Shengyue Wang
- Shanghai Institute of HematologyState Key Laboratory of Medical GenomicsNational Research Center for Translational Medicine at ShanghaiRuijin HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai200025China
| | - Ping Liu
- Shanghai Institute of HematologyState Key Laboratory of Medical GenomicsNational Research Center for Translational Medicine at ShanghaiRuijin HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai200025China
| | - Ruibao Ren
- Shanghai Institute of HematologyState Key Laboratory of Medical GenomicsNational Research Center for Translational Medicine at ShanghaiRuijin HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai200025China
- International Center for Aging and CancerDepartment of Hematology of The First Affiliated HospitalHainan Medical UniversityHaikou571199China
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Becker J, Domenger C, Choksi P, Krämer C, Baumgartl C, Maiakovska O, Kim JJ, Weinmann J, Huber G, Schmidt F, Thirion C, Müller OJ, Willenbring H, Grimm D. Identification of a robust promoter in mouse and human hepatocytes by in vivo biopanning of a barcoded AAV library. Mol Ther 2025:S1525-0016(25)00301-6. [PMID: 40263935 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2025.04.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2025] [Revised: 03/21/2025] [Accepted: 04/16/2025] [Indexed: 04/24/2025] Open
Abstract
Recombinant adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) are leading vectors for in vivo human gene therapy. An integral vector element is promoters, which control transgene expression in either a ubiquitous or cell-type-selective manner. Identifying optimal capsid-promoter combinations is challenging, especially when considering on- versus off-target expression. Here, we report a pipeline for in vivo promoter biopanning in AAV building on our AAV capsid barcoding technology and illustrate its potential by screening 53 promoters in 16 murine tissues using an AAV9 vector. Surprisingly, the 2.2-kb human glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) promoter was the top hit in the liver, where it outperformed robust benchmarks such as the human α-1-antitrypsin promoter or the clinically used liver-specific promoter 1 (LP1). Analysis of hepatic cell populations revealed preferred GFAP promoter activity in hepatocytes. Notably, the GFAP promoter also surpassed the LP1 and cytomegalovirus promoters in human hepatocytes engrafted in an immune-deficient mouse. These findings establish the GFAP promoter as an exciting alternative for research and clinical applications requiring efficient and specific transgene expression in hepatocytes. Our pipeline expands the arsenal of technologies for high-throughput in vivo screening of viral vector components and is compatible with capsid barcoding, facilitating the combinatorial interrogation of complex AAV libraries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Becker
- Department of Infectious Diseases/Virology, Section Viral Vector Technologies, Medical Faculty, University of Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; BioQuant, Center for Integrative Infectious Diseases (CIID), University of Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Claire Domenger
- Department of Infectious Diseases/Virology, Section Viral Vector Technologies, Medical Faculty, University of Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; BioQuant, Center for Integrative Infectious Diseases (CIID), University of Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Pervinder Choksi
- Department of Surgery, Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Chiara Krämer
- Department of Infectious Diseases/Virology, Section Viral Vector Technologies, Medical Faculty, University of Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; BioQuant, Center for Integrative Infectious Diseases (CIID), University of Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Conradin Baumgartl
- Department of Infectious Diseases/Virology, Section Viral Vector Technologies, Medical Faculty, University of Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; BioQuant, Center for Integrative Infectious Diseases (CIID), University of Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Olena Maiakovska
- Department of Infectious Diseases/Virology, Section Viral Vector Technologies, Medical Faculty, University of Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; BioQuant, Center for Integrative Infectious Diseases (CIID), University of Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jae-Jun Kim
- Department of Surgery, Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jonas Weinmann
- Department of Infectious Diseases/Virology, Section Viral Vector Technologies, Medical Faculty, University of Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; BioQuant, Center for Integrative Infectious Diseases (CIID), University of Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Georg Huber
- Revvity Gene Delivery GmbH, 82166 Gräfelfing, Germany
| | - Florian Schmidt
- Department of Infectious Diseases/Virology, Section Viral Vector Technologies, Medical Faculty, University of Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; BioQuant, Center for Integrative Infectious Diseases (CIID), University of Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | - Oliver J Müller
- Department of Internal Medicine V, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein and University of Kiel, 24105 Kiel, Germany; German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), partner site Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, 24105 Kiel, Germany
| | - Holger Willenbring
- Department of Surgery, Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Dirk Grimm
- Department of Infectious Diseases/Virology, Section Viral Vector Technologies, Medical Faculty, University of Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; BioQuant, Center for Integrative Infectious Diseases (CIID), University of Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; German Center for Infection Research (DZIF) and German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), partner site Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; Faculty of Engineering Sciences, University of Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany.
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5
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Luo N, Lin K, Cai Y, Zhang Z, Sui X, Han Z, Yuan W, Xing J, Gui Z, Liu G, Wang J, Xu F. An engineered adeno-associated virus mediates efficient blood-brain barrier penetration with enhanced neurotropism and reduced hepatotropism. J Control Release 2025; 379:303-315. [PMID: 39798705 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2025.01.021] [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: 08/08/2024] [Revised: 12/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/08/2025] [Indexed: 01/15/2025]
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a formidable barrier that restricts the entry of substances into the brain, complicating the study of brain function and the treatment of neurological conditions. Traditional methods of delivering genes from the periphery to the central nervous system (CNS) using adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) often require high doses, which can trigger immune responses and hepatotoxicity. Here, we developed a new AAV variant named AAVhu.32-PLUS based on a rational strategy. Following intravenous injection, AAVhu.32-PLUS can cross the BBB and exhibits higher efficiency and specificity in transducing neurons and significantly reduced hepatotropism compared to the extensively used AAV-PHP.eB. Furthermore, through in vitro cell experiments, we identified that AAVhu.32-PLUS may rely on the LY6A receptor for crossing the BBB. Finally, our research indicates that AAVhu.32-PLUS, while having lower transduction efficiency in astrocytes compared to AAV-PHP.eB, is still capable of efficiently transducing glioblastoma after intravenous injection. These properties make AAVhu.32-PLUS a promising tool for neuroscience research and targeted therapies of brain disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nengsong Luo
- Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 430074 Wuhan, PR China; Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Viral Vectors for Biomedicine, Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 518055 Shenzhen, PR China; Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems, State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, National Center for Magnetic Resonance in Wuhan, Innovation Academy for Precision Measurement Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 430071 Wuhan, PR China
| | - Kunzhang Lin
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Viral Vectors for Biomedicine, Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 518055 Shenzhen, PR China; Key Laboratory of Quality Control Technology for Virus-Based Therapeutics, Guangdong Provincial Medical Products Administration, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Viral Vector Technology in Cell and Gene Therapy Medicinal Products, The Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 518055 Shenzhen, PR China.
| | - Yuxiang Cai
- Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 430074 Wuhan, PR China
| | - Zilian Zhang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Viral Vectors for Biomedicine, Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 518055 Shenzhen, PR China; Key Laboratory of Quality Control Technology for Virus-Based Therapeutics, Guangdong Provincial Medical Products Administration, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Viral Vector Technology in Cell and Gene Therapy Medicinal Products, The Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 518055 Shenzhen, PR China
| | - Xiaokai Sui
- Zhongnan Hospital, Wuhan University, 430072 Wuhan, PR China
| | - Zengpeng Han
- Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Wenjia Yuan
- Brain Case Biotechnology Co., Ltd., 518107 Shenzhen, PR China
| | - Jiayong Xing
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Viral Vectors for Biomedicine, Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 518055 Shenzhen, PR China
| | - Zhu Gui
- Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems, State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, National Center for Magnetic Resonance in Wuhan, Innovation Academy for Precision Measurement Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 430071 Wuhan, PR China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100049 Beijing, PR China
| | - Gangning Liu
- College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, 430072 Wuhan, PR China
| | - Jie Wang
- Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems, State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, National Center for Magnetic Resonance in Wuhan, Innovation Academy for Precision Measurement Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 430071 Wuhan, PR China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100049 Beijing, PR China
| | - Fuqiang Xu
- Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 430074 Wuhan, PR China; Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Viral Vectors for Biomedicine, Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 518055 Shenzhen, PR China; Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems, State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, National Center for Magnetic Resonance in Wuhan, Innovation Academy for Precision Measurement Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 430071 Wuhan, PR China; Key Laboratory of Quality Control Technology for Virus-Based Therapeutics, Guangdong Provincial Medical Products Administration, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Viral Vector Technology in Cell and Gene Therapy Medicinal Products, The Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 518055 Shenzhen, PR China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100049 Beijing, PR China; Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 200031 Shanghai, PR China.
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6
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Tan F, Dong Y, Qi J, Yu W, Chai R. Artificial Intelligence-Based Approaches for AAV Vector Engineering. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2025; 12:e2411062. [PMID: 39932449 PMCID: PMC11884542 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202411062] [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: 09/10/2024] [Revised: 12/31/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2025]
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV) has emerged as a leading vector for gene therapy due to its broad host range, low pathogenicity, and ability to facilitate long-term gene expression. However, AAV vectors face limitations, including immunogenicity and insufficient targeting specificity. To enhance the efficacy of gene therapy, researchers have been modifying the AAV vector using various methods. Traditional experimental approaches for optimizing AAV vector are often time-consuming, resource-intensive, and difficult to replicate. The advancement of artificial intelligence (AI), particularly machine learning, offers significant potential to accelerate capsid optimization while reducing development time and manufacturing costs. This review compares traditional and AI-based methods of AAV vector engineering and highlights recent research in AAV engineering using AI algorithms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangzhi Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Digital Medical EngineeringDepartment of Otolaryngology Head and Neck SurgeryZhongda HospitalSchool of Life Sciences and TechnologySchool of MedicineAdvanced Institute for Life and HealthJiangsu Province High‐Tech Key Laboratory for Bio‐Medical ResearchSoutheast UniversityNanjing210096China
| | - Yue Dong
- Immunowake, Inc.Shanghai201210China
| | - Jieyu Qi
- Department of NeurologyAerospace Center HospitalSchool of Life ScienceBeijing Institute of TechnologyBeijing100081China
- State Key Laboratory of Hearing and Balance ScienceBeijing Institute of TechnologyBeijing100081China
- School of Medical EngineeringAffiliated Zhuhai People's HospitalBeijing Institute of TechnologyZhuhai519088China
- Advanced Technology Research InstituteBeijing Institute of TechnologyJinan250300China
| | - Wenwu Yu
- School of MathematicsSoutheast UniversityNanjing210096China
| | - Renjie Chai
- State Key Laboratory of Digital Medical EngineeringDepartment of Otolaryngology Head and Neck SurgeryZhongda HospitalSchool of Life Sciences and TechnologySchool of MedicineAdvanced Institute for Life and HealthJiangsu Province High‐Tech Key Laboratory for Bio‐Medical ResearchSoutheast UniversityNanjing210096China
- Department of NeurologyAerospace Center HospitalSchool of Life ScienceBeijing Institute of TechnologyBeijing100081China
- Co‐Innovation Center of NeuroregenerationNantong UniversityNantong226001China
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck SurgerySichuan Provincial People's HospitalSchool of MedicineUniversity of Electronic Science and Technology of ChinaChengdu610072China
- Southeast University Shenzhen Research InstituteShenzhen518063China
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Zwi-Dantsis L, Mohamed S, Massaro G, Moeendarbary E. Adeno-Associated Virus Vectors: Principles, Practices, and Prospects in Gene Therapy. Viruses 2025; 17:239. [PMID: 40006994 PMCID: PMC11861813 DOI: 10.3390/v17020239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2024] [Revised: 01/27/2025] [Accepted: 02/04/2025] [Indexed: 02/27/2025] Open
Abstract
Gene therapy offers promising potential as an efficacious and long-lasting therapeutic option for genetic conditions, by correcting defective mutations using engineered vectors to deliver genetic material to host cells. Among these vectors, adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) stand out for their efficiency, versatility, and safety, making them one of the leading platforms in gene therapy. The enormous potential of AAVs has been demonstrated through their use in over 225 clinical trials and the FDA's approval of six AAV-based gene therapy products, positioning these vectors at the forefront of the field. This review highlights the evolution and current applications of AAVs in gene therapy, focusing on their clinical successes, ongoing developments, and the manufacturing processes required for the rapid commercial growth anticipated in the AAV therapy market. It also discusses the broader implications of these advancements for future therapeutic strategies targeting more complex and multi-systemic conditions and biological processes such as aging. Finally, we explore some of the major challenges currently confronting the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Limor Zwi-Dantsis
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Roberts Building, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Saira Mohamed
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Roberts Building, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Giulia Massaro
- UCL School of Pharmacy, University College London, London WC1N 1AX, UK
| | - Emad Moeendarbary
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Roberts Building, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
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8
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Zhang A, Zhang X, Chen J, Shi X, Yu X, He Z, Sun J, Sun M, Liu Z. Approaches and applications in transdermal and transpulmonary gene drug delivery. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2025; 12:1519557. [PMID: 39881959 PMCID: PMC11775749 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2024.1519557] [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: 11/01/2024] [Accepted: 12/20/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2025] Open
Abstract
Gene therapy has emerged as a pivotal component in the treatment of diverse genetic and acquired human diseases. However, effective gene delivery remains a formidable challenge to overcome. The presence of degrading enzymes, acidic pH conditions, and the gastrointestinal mucus layer pose significant barriers for genetic therapy, necessitating exploration of alternative therapeutic options. In recent years, transdermal and transpulmonary gene delivery modalities offer promising avenues with multiple advantages, such as non-invasion, avoided liver first-pass effect and improved patient compliance. Considering the rapid development of gene therapeutics via transdermal and transpulmonary administration, here we aim to summarize the nearest advances in transdermal and transpulmonary gene drug delivery. In this review, we firstly elaborate on current delivery carrier in gene therapy. We, further, describe approaches and applications for enhancing transdermal and transpulmonary gene delivery encompassing microneedles, chemical enhancers, physical methods for transdermal administration as well as nebulized formulations, dry powder formulations, and pressurized metered dose formulations for efficient transpulmonary delivery. Last but not least, the opportunities and outlooks of gene therapy through both administrated routes are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anni Zhang
- Department of Ultrasound, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Xuran Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, Fuxin Center Hospital, Fuxin, Liaoning, China
| | - Jiahui Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Xianbao Shi
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning, China
| | - Xijuan Yu
- Department of Ultrasound, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Zhonggui He
- Wuya College of Innovation, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Intelligent Drug Delivery Systems, Ministry of Education, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Jin Sun
- Wuya College of Innovation, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Intelligent Drug Delivery Systems, Ministry of Education, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Mengchi Sun
- School of Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Intelligent Drug Delivery Systems, Ministry of Education, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Zhijun Liu
- Department of Ultrasound, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
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9
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Ozgür-Gunes Y, Le Stunff C, Bougnères P. Oligodendrocytes, the Forgotten Target of Gene Therapy. Cells 2024; 13:1973. [PMID: 39682723 PMCID: PMC11640421 DOI: 10.3390/cells13231973] [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: 10/29/2024] [Revised: 11/22/2024] [Accepted: 11/26/2024] [Indexed: 12/18/2024] Open
Abstract
If the billions of oligodendrocytes (OLs) populating the central nervous system (CNS) of patients could express their feelings, they would undoubtedly tell gene therapists about their frustration with the other neural cell populations, neurons, microglia, or astrocytes, which have been the favorite targets of gene transfer experiments. This review questions why OLs have been left out of most gene therapy attempts. The first explanation is that the pathogenic role of OLs is still discussed in most CNS diseases. Another reason is that the so-called ubiquitous CAG, CBA, CBh, or CMV promoters-widely used in gene therapy studies-are unable or poorly able to activate the transcription of episomal transgene copies brought by adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors in OLs. Accordingly, transgene expression in OLs has either not been found or not been evaluated in most gene therapy studies in rodents or non-human primates. The aims of the current review are to give OLs their rightful place among the neural cells that future gene therapy could target and to encourage researchers to test the effect of OL transduction in various CNS diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasemin Ozgür-Gunes
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA;
| | - Catherine Le Stunff
- MIRCen Institute, Laboratoire des Maladies Neurodégénératives, Commissariat à l’Energie Atomique, 92260 Fontenay-aux-Roses, France;
- NEURATRIS at MIRCen, 92260 Fontenay-aux-Roses, France
- UMR1195 Inserm and University Paris Saclay, 94270 Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Pierre Bougnères
- MIRCen Institute, Laboratoire des Maladies Neurodégénératives, Commissariat à l’Energie Atomique, 92260 Fontenay-aux-Roses, France;
- NEURATRIS at MIRCen, 92260 Fontenay-aux-Roses, France
- Therapy Design Consulting, 94300 Vincennes, France
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10
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Goens MM, Howard EL, Warner BM, Susta L, Wootton SK. Rapid Development of Small Rodent Animal Models for Infectious Disease Research Through Vectorized Receptor Molecule Expression. Viruses 2024; 16:1794. [PMID: 39599908 PMCID: PMC11599079 DOI: 10.3390/v16111794] [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: 09/25/2024] [Revised: 11/09/2024] [Accepted: 11/16/2024] [Indexed: 11/29/2024] Open
Abstract
The emergence and re-emergence of pathogens with pandemic potential has been a persistent issue throughout history. Recent decades have seen significant outbreaks of zoonotic viruses from members of the Coronaviridae, Filoviridae, Paramyxoviridae, Flaviviridae, and Togaviridae families, resulting in widespread infections. The continual emergence of zoonotic viral pathogens and associated infections highlights the need for prevention strategies and effective treatments. Central to this effort is the availability of suitable animal models, which are essential for understanding pathogenesis and assessing transmission dynamics. These animals are also critical for evaluating the safety and efficacy of novel vaccines or therapeutics and are essential in facilitating regulatory approval of new products. Rapid development of animal models is an integral aspect of pandemic response and preparedness; however, their establishment is fraught by several rate-limiting steps, including selection of a suitable species, the logistical challenges associated with sharing and disseminating transgenic animals (e.g., the time-intensive nature of breeding and maintaining colonies), the availability of technical expertise, as well as ethical and regulatory approvals. A method for the rapid development of relevant animal models that has recently gained traction, in large part due to the COVID-19 pandemic, is the use of gene therapy vectors to express human viral receptors in readily accessible laboratory animals to enable virus infection and development of clinical disease. These models can be developed rapidly on any genetic background, making mechanistic studies and accelerated evaluation of novel countermeasures possible. In this review, we will discuss important considerations for the effective development of animal models using viral vector approaches and review the current vector-based animal models for studying viral pathogenesis and evaluating prophylactic and therapeutic strategies, with an emphasis on models of SARS-CoV-2 infection based on the vectorized expression of human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie M. Goens
- Department of Pathobiology, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Erin L. Howard
- Department of Pathobiology, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Bryce M. Warner
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization, University of Saskatchewan, 120 Veterinary Rd, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5E3, Canada;
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Immunology, University of Saskatchewan, 107 Wiggins Rd, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - Leonardo Susta
- Department of Pathobiology, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Sarah K. Wootton
- Department of Pathobiology, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
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11
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Yuan F, Lerman LO. Targeted therapeutic strategies for the kidney. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2024; 28:979-989. [PMID: 39491501 PMCID: PMC11617265 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2024.2421756] [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: 09/20/2024] [Accepted: 10/23/2024] [Indexed: 11/05/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Kidney diseases impose a significant burden with high incidence and mortality rates. Current treatment options for kidney diseases are limited, necessitating urgent development of novel and effective therapeutic strategies to delay or reverse disease progression. Targeted therapies for the kidney hold promise in significantly enhancing treatment outcomes, offering hope to patients afflicted with renal disorders. AREAS COVERED This review summarized advances in kidney-targeted therapies including genes, peptides and proteins, cell-based, nanoparticles, and localized delivery routes. We also explored the potential clinical applications, prospects, and challenges of targeted therapies for renal disorders. EXPERT OPINION Advances in targeted therapies for renal conditions have enhanced therapeutic outcomes. Clinical application of kidney-targeted therapies is currently limited by renal structure and the scarcity of robust biomarkers. Bridging the gap from basic and pre-clinical research targeting the kidney to achieving clinical translation remains a formidable challenge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Yuan
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Mayo Clinic; Rochester, MN, USA
- Department of Urology, National Children’s Medical Center, Shanghai Children’s Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lilach O. Lerman
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Mayo Clinic; Rochester, MN, USA
- Department of Cardiovascular Diseases, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
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12
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Ebberink EH, Ruisinger A, Nuebel M, Meyer-Berg H, Ferreira IR, Thomann M, Heck AJ. Probing recombinant AAV capsid integrity and genome release after thermal stress by mass photometry. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2024; 32:101293. [PMID: 39100914 PMCID: PMC11295964 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2024.101293] [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: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024]
Abstract
Adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) are gaining traction as delivery vehicles for gene therapy although the molecular understanding of AAV-transgene release is still limited. Typically, the process of viral uncoating is investigated (in vitro) through thermal stress, revealing capsid disintegration at elevated temperatures. To assess the (in)stability of different empty and filled AAV preparations, we used the light-scattering-based interferometric microscopy technique of mass photometry that, on a single-particle basis, determines the molecular weight of AAVs. By introducing a heat-stable DNA plasmid as an internal standard, we quantitatively probed the impact of heat on AAVs. Generally, empty AAVs exhibited greater heat resistance than genome-filled particles. Our data also indicate that upon DNA release, the capsids do not transform into empty AAVs, but seem to aggregate or disintegrate. Strikingly, some AAVs exhibited an intermediate state with disrupted capsids but preserved bound genome, a feature that experimentally only emerged following incubation with a nuclease. Our data demonstrate that the thermal uncoating process is highly AAV specific (i.e., can be influenced by serotype, genome, host system). We argue that nuclease treatment in combination with MP can be used as an additional analytical tool for assessing structural integrity of recombinant and/or clinical AAV vectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduard H.T.M. Ebberink
- Biomolecular Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics, Bijvoet Center for Biomolecular Research and Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Utrecht, Padualaan 8, Utrecht 3584 CH, the Netherlands
- Netherlands Proteomics Center, Padualaan 8, Utrecht 3584 CH, the Netherlands
| | - Alisa Ruisinger
- Gene Therapy Technical Development Analytics, Roche Diagnostics GmbH, Nonnenwald 2, 82377 Penzberg, Germany
| | - Markus Nuebel
- Gene Therapy Technical Development Analytics, Roche Diagnostics GmbH, Nonnenwald 2, 82377 Penzberg, Germany
| | | | | | - Marco Thomann
- Gene Therapy Technical Development Analytics, Roche Diagnostics GmbH, Nonnenwald 2, 82377 Penzberg, Germany
| | - Albert J.R. Heck
- Biomolecular Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics, Bijvoet Center for Biomolecular Research and Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Utrecht, Padualaan 8, Utrecht 3584 CH, the Netherlands
- Netherlands Proteomics Center, Padualaan 8, Utrecht 3584 CH, the Netherlands
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13
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Shay TF, Jang S, Brittain TJ, Chen X, Walker B, Tebbutt C, Fan Y, Wolfe DA, Arokiaraj CM, Sullivan EE, Ding X, Wang TY, Lei Y, Chuapoco MR, Chou TF, Gradinaru V. Human cell surface-AAV interactomes identify LRP6 as blood-brain barrier transcytosis receptor and immune cytokine IL3 as AAV9 binder. Nat Commun 2024; 15:7853. [PMID: 39245720 PMCID: PMC11381518 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-52149-0] [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: 06/06/2024] [Accepted: 08/27/2024] [Indexed: 09/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) are foundational gene delivery tools for basic science and clinical therapeutics. However, lack of mechanistic insight, especially for engineered vectors created by directed evolution, can hamper their application. Here, we adapt an unbiased human cell microarray platform to determine the extracellular and cell surface interactomes of natural and engineered AAVs. We identify a naturally-evolved and serotype-specific interaction between the AAV9 capsid and human interleukin 3 (IL3), with possible roles in host immune modulation, as well as lab-evolved low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 6 (LRP6) interactions specific to engineered capsids with enhanced blood-brain barrier crossing in non-human primates after intravenous administration. The unbiased cell microarray screening approach also allows us to identify off-target tissue binding interactions of engineered brain-enriched AAV capsids that may inform vectors' peripheral organ tropism and side effects. Our cryo-electron tomography and AlphaFold modeling of capsid-interactor complexes reveal LRP6 and IL3 binding sites. These results allow confident application of engineered AAVs in diverse organisms and unlock future target-informed engineering of improved viral and non-viral vectors for non-invasive therapeutic delivery to the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy F Shay
- Division of Biology & Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, 91125, USA.
| | - Seongmin Jang
- Division of Biology & Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, 91125, USA
| | - Tyler J Brittain
- Division of Biology & Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, 91125, USA
| | - Xinhong Chen
- Division of Biology & Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, 91125, USA
| | - Beth Walker
- Charles River Laboratories, High Peak Business Park, Buxton Road, Chinley, SK23 6FJ, UK
| | - Claire Tebbutt
- Charles River Laboratories, High Peak Business Park, Buxton Road, Chinley, SK23 6FJ, UK
| | - Yujie Fan
- Division of Biology & Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, 91125, USA
| | - Damien A Wolfe
- Division of Biology & Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, 91125, USA
| | - Cynthia M Arokiaraj
- Division of Biology & Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, 91125, USA
| | - Erin E Sullivan
- Division of Biology & Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, 91125, USA
| | - Xiaozhe Ding
- Division of Biology & Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, 91125, USA
| | - Ting-Yu Wang
- Division of Biology & Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, 91125, USA
| | - Yaping Lei
- Division of Biology & Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, 91125, USA
| | - Miguel R Chuapoco
- Division of Biology & Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, 91125, USA
| | - Tsui-Fen Chou
- Division of Biology & Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, 91125, USA
| | - Viviana Gradinaru
- Division of Biology & Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, 91125, USA.
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14
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Busskamp V, Roska B, Sahel JA. Optogenetic Vision Restoration. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2024; 14:a041660. [PMID: 37734866 PMCID: PMC11293536 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a041660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
Optogenetics has emerged over the past 20 years as a powerful tool to investigate the various circuits underlying numerous functions, especially in neuroscience. The ability to control by light the activity of neurons has enabled the development of therapeutic strategies aimed at restoring some level of vision in blinding retinal conditions. Promising preclinical and initial clinical data support such expectations. Numerous challenges remain to be tackled (e.g., confirmation of safety, cell and circuit specificity, patterns, intensity and mode of stimulation, rehabilitation programs) on the path toward useful vision restoration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Volker Busskamp
- Degenerative Retinal Diseases, University Hospital Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Botond Roska
- Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology Basel, 4031 Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Basel, 4001 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jose-Alain Sahel
- Department of Ophthalmology, UPMC Vision Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213, USA
- Institut Hospitalo-Universitaire FOReSIGHT, Sorbonne Universite, Inserm, Quinze-Vingts Hopital de la Vision, 75012 Paris, France
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15
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Kuz CA, McFarlin S, Qiu J. The Expression and Function of the Small Nonstructural Proteins of Adeno-Associated Viruses (AAVs). Viruses 2024; 16:1215. [PMID: 39205189 PMCID: PMC11359079 DOI: 10.3390/v16081215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2024] [Revised: 07/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/26/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) are small, non-enveloped viruses that package a single-stranded (ss)DNA genome of 4.7 kilobases (kb) within their T = 1 icosahedral capsid. AAVs are replication-deficient viruses that require a helper virus to complete their life cycle. Recombinant (r)AAVs have been utilized as gene delivery vectors for decades in gene therapy applications. So far, six rAAV-based gene medicines have been approved by the US FDA. The 4.7 kb ssDNA genome of AAV encodes nine proteins, including three viral structural/capsid proteins, VP1, VP2, and VP3; four large nonstructural proteins (replication-related proteins), Rep78/68 and Rep52/40; and two small nonstructural proteins. The two nonstructured proteins are viral accessory proteins, namely the assembly associated protein (AAP) and membrane-associated accessory protein (MAAP). Although the accessory proteins are conserved within AAV serotypes, their functions are largely obscure. In this review, we focus on the expression strategy and functional properties of the small nonstructural proteins of AAVs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jianming Qiu
- Department of Microbiology, Molecular Genetics and Immunology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA; (C.A.K.); (S.M.)
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16
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Pham Q, Glicksman J, Chatterjee A. Chemical approaches to probe and engineer AAV vectors. NANOSCALE 2024; 16:13820-13833. [PMID: 38978480 PMCID: PMC11271820 DOI: 10.1039/d4nr01300j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV) has emerged as the most promising vector for in vivo human gene therapy, with several therapeutic approvals in the last few years and countless more under development. Underlying this remarkable success are several attractive features that AAV offers, including lack of pathogenicity, low immunogenicity, long-term gene expression without genomic integration, the ability to infect both dividing and non-dividing cells, etc. However, the commonly used wild-type AAV capsids in therapeutic development present significant challenges, including inadequate tissue specificity and the need for large doses to attain therapeutic effectiveness, raising safety concerns. Additionally, significant preexisting adaptive immunity against most natural capsids, and the development of such anti-capsid immunity after the first treatment, represent major challenges. Strategies to engineer the AAV capsid are critically needed to address these challenges and unlock the full promise of AAV gene therapy. Chemical modification of the AAV capsid has recently emerged as a powerful new approach to engineer its properties. Unlike genetic strategies, which can be more disruptive to the delicate capsid assembly and packaging processes, "late-stage" chemical modification of the assembled capsid-whether at natural amino acid residues or site-specifically installed noncanonical amino acid residues-often enables a versatile approach to introducing new properties to the capsid. This review summarizes the significant recent progress in AAV capsid engineering strategies, with a particular focus on chemical modifications in advancing the next generation of AAV-based gene therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quan Pham
- Department of Chemistry, Boston College, 2609 Beacon Street, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467, USA.
| | - Jake Glicksman
- Department of Chemistry, Boston College, 2609 Beacon Street, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467, USA.
| | - Abhishek Chatterjee
- Department of Chemistry, Boston College, 2609 Beacon Street, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467, USA.
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17
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Som M, Gikanga B, Kanapuram V, Yadav S. Drug product Formulation and Fill/Finish Manufacturing Process Considerations for AAV-Based Genomic Medicines. J Pharm Sci 2024; 113:1711-1725. [PMID: 38570073 DOI: 10.1016/j.xphs.2024.03.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) have become the delivery medium of choice for a variety of genomic medicine applications i.e., gene therapy, gene editing/regulation, and ex-vivo cell therapy. AAVs are protein-DNA complexes which have unique stability characteristics that are susceptible to various stress exposure conditions commonly seen in the drug product (DP) life cycle. This review takes a comprehensive look at AAV DP formulation and process development considerations that could impact critical quality attributes (CQAs) during manufacturing, packaging, shipping, and clinical use. Additional aspects related to AAV development reviewed herein are: (1) Different AAV serotypes with unique protein sequences and charge characteristics potentially leading to discrete stability profiles; (2) Manufacturing process challenges and optimization efforts to improve yield, recovery and purity especially during early development activities; and (3) Defining and identifying CQAs with analytical methods which are constantly evolving and present unique characterization challenges for AAV-based products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madhura Som
- Sangamo Therapeutics, 7000 Marina Boulevard, Brisbane, CA 94005, United States.
| | - Benson Gikanga
- Sangamo Therapeutics, 7000 Marina Boulevard, Brisbane, CA 94005, United States
| | - Varna Kanapuram
- Sangamo Therapeutics, 7000 Marina Boulevard, Brisbane, CA 94005, United States
| | - Sandeep Yadav
- Sangamo Therapeutics, 7000 Marina Boulevard, Brisbane, CA 94005, United States.
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18
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Neumann EN, Bertozzi TM, Wu E, Serack F, Harvey JW, Brauer PP, Pirtle CP, Coffey A, Howard M, Kamath N, Lenz K, Guzman K, Raymond MH, Khalil AS, Deverman BE, Minikel EV, Vallabh SM, Weissman JS. Brainwide silencing of prion protein by AAV-mediated delivery of an engineered compact epigenetic editor. Science 2024; 384:ado7082. [PMID: 38935715 PMCID: PMC11875203 DOI: 10.1126/science.ado7082] [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: 02/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Prion disease is caused by misfolding of the prion protein (PrP) into pathogenic self-propagating conformations, leading to rapid-onset dementia and death. However, elimination of endogenous PrP halts prion disease progression. In this study, we describe Coupled Histone tail for Autoinhibition Release of Methyltransferase (CHARM), a compact, enzyme-free epigenetic editor capable of silencing transcription through programmable DNA methylation. Using a histone H3 tail-Dnmt3l fusion, CHARM recruits and activates endogenous DNA methyltransferases, thereby reducing transgene size and cytotoxicity. When delivered to the mouse brain by systemic injection of adeno-associated virus (AAV), Prnp-targeted CHARM ablates PrP expression across the brain. Furthermore, we have temporally limited editor expression by implementing a kinetically tuned self-silencing approach. CHARM potentially represents a broadly applicable strategy to suppress pathogenic proteins, including those implicated in other neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edwin N. Neumann
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research; Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology; Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Tessa M. Bertozzi
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research; Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Massachusetts Institute of Technology; Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Elaine Wu
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research; Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Fiona Serack
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard; Cambridge, MA02142, USA
| | - John W. Harvey
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard; Cambridge, MA02142, USA
| | - Pamela P. Brauer
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard; Cambridge, MA02142, USA
| | - Catherine P. Pirtle
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard; Cambridge, MA02142, USA
| | - Alissa Coffey
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard; Cambridge, MA02142, USA
| | - Michael Howard
- Comparative Medicine, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard; Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Nikita Kamath
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard; Cambridge, MA02142, USA
| | - Kenney Lenz
- Comparative Medicine, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard; Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Kenia Guzman
- Comparative Medicine, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard; Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Michael H. Raymond
- Biological Design Center, Boston University; Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University; Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Ahmad S. Khalil
- Biological Design Center, Boston University; Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University; Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University; Boston, MA 02115. USA
| | - Benjamin E. Deverman
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard; Cambridge, MA02142, USA
| | - Eric Vallabh Minikel
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard; Cambridge, MA02142, USA
- McCance Center for Brain Health and Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital; Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Sonia M. Vallabh
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard; Cambridge, MA02142, USA
- McCance Center for Brain Health and Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital; Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Jonathan S. Weissman
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research; Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Massachusetts Institute of Technology; Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
- Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology; Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology; Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
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19
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Luo S, Jiang H, Li Q, Qin Y, Yang S, Li J, Xu L, Gou Y, Zhang Y, Liu F, Ke X, Zheng Q, Sun X. An adeno-associated virus variant enabling efficient ocular-directed gene delivery across species. Nat Commun 2024; 15:3780. [PMID: 38710714 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-48221-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Recombinant adeno-associated viruses (rAAVs) have emerged as promising gene therapy vectors due to their proven efficacy and safety in clinical applications. In non-human primates (NHPs), rAAVs are administered via suprachoroidal injection at a higher dose. However, high doses of rAAVs tend to increase additional safety risks. Here, we present a novel AAV capsid (AAVv128), which exhibits significantly enhanced transduction efficiency for photoreceptors and retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells, along with a broader distribution across the layers of retinal tissues in different animal models (mice, rabbits, and NHPs) following intraocular injection. Notably, the suprachoroidal delivery of AAVv128-anti-VEGF vector completely suppresses the Grade IV lesions in a laser-induced choroidal neovascularization (CNV) NHP model for neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD). Furthermore, cryo-EM analysis at 2.1 Å resolution reveals that the critical residues of AAVv128 exhibit a more robust advantage in AAV binding, the nuclear uptake and endosome escaping. Collectively, our findings highlight the potential of AAVv128 as a next generation ocular gene therapy vector, particularly using the suprachoroidal delivery route.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuang Luo
- Chengdu Origen Biotechnology Co. Ltd, Chengdu, 610036, China
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Biomedicine, Chengdu, 610036, China
| | - Hao Jiang
- Chengdu Origen Biotechnology Co. Ltd, Chengdu, 610036, China
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Biomedicine, Chengdu, 610036, China
| | - Qingwei Li
- Chengdu Origen Biotechnology Co. Ltd, Chengdu, 610036, China
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Biomedicine, Chengdu, 610036, China
| | - Yingfei Qin
- Chengdu Origen Biotechnology Co. Ltd, Chengdu, 610036, China
| | - Shiping Yang
- Chengdu Origen Biotechnology Co. Ltd, Chengdu, 610036, China
| | - Jing Li
- Chengdu Origen Biotechnology Co. Ltd, Chengdu, 610036, China
| | - Lingli Xu
- Chengdu Origen Biotechnology Co. Ltd, Chengdu, 610036, China
| | - Yan Gou
- Chengdu Origen Biotechnology Co. Ltd, Chengdu, 610036, China
| | - Yafei Zhang
- Chengdu Origen Biotechnology Co. Ltd, Chengdu, 610036, China
| | - Fengjiang Liu
- Innovative Center for Pathogen Research, Guangzhou Laboratory, Guangzhou, 510005, China
| | - Xiao Ke
- Chengdu Origen Biotechnology Co. Ltd, Chengdu, 610036, China.
- Chengdu Kanghong Pharmaceuticals Group Co Ltd, Chengdu, 610036, China.
| | - Qiang Zheng
- Chengdu Origen Biotechnology Co. Ltd, Chengdu, 610036, China.
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Biomedicine, Chengdu, 610036, China.
| | - Xun Sun
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
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20
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Zhang Z, Counsell JR. Non-canonical capsid engineering highlights new possibilities for AAV vectorology. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2024; 32:101221. [PMID: 38487107 PMCID: PMC10937956 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2024.101221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Zehan Zhang
- Research Department of Targeted Intervention, UCL Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, Charles Bell House, London, UK
| | - John R. Counsell
- Research Department of Targeted Intervention, UCL Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, Charles Bell House, London, UK
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21
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Yu DL, van Lieshout LP, Stevens BAY, Near KJ(J, Stodola JK, Stinson KJ, Slavic D, Wootton SK. AAV Vectors Pseudotyped with Capsids from Porcine and Bovine Species Mediate In Vitro and In Vivo Gene Delivery. Viruses 2023; 16:57. [PMID: 38257756 PMCID: PMC10820940 DOI: 10.3390/v16010057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors are among the most widely used delivery vehicles for in vivo gene therapy as they mediate robust and sustained transgene expression with limited toxicity. However, a significant impediment to the broad clinical success of AAV-based therapies is the widespread presence of pre-existing humoral immunity to AAVs in the human population. This immunity arises from the circulation of non-pathogenic endemic human AAV serotypes. One possible solution is to use non-human AAV capsids to pseudotype transgene-containing AAV vector genomes of interest. Due to the low probability of human exposure to animal AAVs, pre-existing immunity to animal-derived AAV capsids should be low. Here, we characterize two novel AAV capsid sequences: one derived from porcine colon tissue and the other from a caprine adenovirus stock. Both AAV capsids proved to be effective transducers of HeLa and HEK293T cells in vitro. In vivo, both capsids were able to transduce the murine nose, lung, and liver after either intranasal or intraperitoneal administration. In addition, we demonstrate that the porcine AAV capsid likely arose from multiple recombination events involving human- and animal-derived AAV sequences. We hypothesize that recurrent recombination events with similar and distantly related AAV sequences represent an effective mechanism for enhancing the fitness of wildtype AAV populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darrick L. Yu
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | | | | | | | - Jenny K. Stodola
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Kevin J. Stinson
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Durda Slavic
- Animal Health Laboratory, Laboratory Services Division, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Sarah K. Wootton
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
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22
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Xu S, Cai J, Cheng H, Wang W. Sustained release of therapeutic gene by injectable hydrogel for hepatocellular carcinoma. Int J Pharm X 2023; 6:100195. [PMID: 37448985 PMCID: PMC10336675 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpx.2023.100195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Gene therapy has shown remarkable effectiveness in the management of disease like cancer and inflammation as a revolutionary therapeutic. Nonetheless, therapeutic drug target discovery, efficient gene delivery, and gene delivery vehicles continue to be significant obstacles. Due to their effective gene transport capabilities and low immunogenicity, supramolecular polymers have garnered significant interest. Herein, ABHD5 is identified as a potential therapeutic target since it is dysregulated in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Interestingly, the downregulation of ABHD5 could induce programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression in liver cancer, which may contribute to the immunosuppression. To overcome the immunosuppression caused by PD-L1, an injectable hydrogel is designed to achieve efficient abhydrolase domain containing 5 (ABHD5) gene delivery via the host-guest interaction with branched polyethyleneimine-g-poly (ethylene glycol), poly (ethylene oxide) and poly (propylene oxide) block copolymers and α-CD (PPA/CD), demonstrating the capability for sustained gene release. The co-assembly hydrogel demonstrates good biocompatibility and enhanced gene transfection efficiency, efficiently triggering tumor cell apoptosis. Overall, the results of this study suggest that ABHD5 is a potential therapeutic target, and that a host-guest-based supramolecular hydrogel could serve as a promising platform for the inhibition of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuangta Xu
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou 362000, China
| | - Jianya Cai
- Department of Surgery, Quanzhou Medical College, Quanzhou 362000, China
| | - Hongwei Cheng
- Center of molecular imaging and translational medicine, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361002, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Hepatic-biliary-pancreatic-Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou 362000, China
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23
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Pfeiffer LS, Stafforst T. Precision RNA base editing with engineered and endogenous effectors. Nat Biotechnol 2023; 41:1526-1542. [PMID: 37735261 DOI: 10.1038/s41587-023-01927-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
RNA base editing refers to the rewriting of genetic information within an intact RNA molecule and serves various functions, such as evasion of the endogenous immune system and regulation of protein function. To achieve this, certain enzymes have been discovered in human cells that catalyze the conversion of one nucleobase into another. This natural process could be exploited to manipulate and recode any base in a target transcript. In contrast to DNA base editing, analogous changes introduced in RNA are not permanent or inheritable but rather allow reversible and doseable effects that appeal to various therapeutic applications. The current practice of RNA base editing involves the deamination of adenosines and cytidines, which are converted to inosines and uridines, respectively. In this Review, we summarize current site-directed RNA base-editing strategies and highlight recent achievements to improve editing efficiency, precision, codon-targeting scope and in vivo delivery into disease-relevant tissues. Besides engineered editing effectors, we focus on strategies to harness endogenous adenosine deaminases acting on RNA (ADAR) enzymes and discuss limitations and future perspectives to apply the tools in basic research and as a therapeutic modality. We expect the field to realize the first RNA base-editing drug soon, likely on a well-defined genetic disease. However, the long-term challenge will be to carve out the sweet spot of the technology where its unique ability is exploited to modulate signaling cues, metabolism or other clinically relevant processes in a safe and doseable manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura S Pfeiffer
- Interfaculty Institute of Biochemistry, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Thorsten Stafforst
- Interfaculty Institute of Biochemistry, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.
- Gene and RNA Therapy Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.
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24
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Gonzalez TJ, Mitchell-Dick A, Blondel LO, Fanous MM, Hull JA, Oh DK, Moller-Tank S, Castellanos Rivera RM, Piedrahita JA, Asokan A. Structure-guided AAV capsid evolution strategies for enhanced CNS gene delivery. Nat Protoc 2023; 18:3413-3459. [PMID: 37735235 DOI: 10.1038/s41596-023-00875-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
Over the past 5 years, our laboratory has systematically developed a structure-guided library approach to evolve new adeno-associated virus (AAV) capsids with altered tissue tropism, higher transduction efficiency and the ability to evade pre-existing humoral immunity. Here, we provide a detailed protocol describing two distinct evolution strategies using structurally divergent AAV serotypes as templates, exemplified by improving CNS gene transfer efficiency in vivo. We outline four major components of our strategy: (i) structure-guided design of AAV capsid libraries, (ii) AAV library production, (iii) library cycling in single versus multiple animal models, followed by (iv) evaluation of lead AAV vector candidates in vivo. The protocol spans ~95 d, excluding gene expression analysis in vivo, and can vary depending on user experience, resources and experimental design. A distinguishing attribute of the current protocol is the focus on providing biomedical researchers with 3D structural information to guide evolution of precise 'hotspots' on AAV capsids. Furthermore, the protocol outlines two distinct methods for AAV library evolution consisting of adenovirus-enabled infectious cycling in a single species and noninfectious cycling in a cross-species manner. Notably, our workflow can be seamlessly merged with other RNA transcript-based library strategies and tailored for tissue-specific capsid selection. Overall, the procedures outlined herein can be adapted to expand the AAV vector toolkit for genetic manipulation of animal models and development of human gene therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trevor J Gonzalez
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | - Leo O Blondel
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Marco M Fanous
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Joshua A Hull
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Daniel K Oh
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Sven Moller-Tank
- Gene Therapy Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | | | - Jorge A Piedrahita
- North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Aravind Asokan
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA.
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA.
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25
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Campos LJ, Arokiaraj CM, Chuapoco MR, Chen X, Goeden N, Gradinaru V, Fox AS. Advances in AAV technology for delivering genetically encoded cargo to the nonhuman primate nervous system. CURRENT RESEARCH IN NEUROBIOLOGY 2023; 4:100086. [PMID: 37397806 PMCID: PMC10313870 DOI: 10.1016/j.crneur.2023.100086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 02/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Modern neuroscience approaches including optogenetics, calcium imaging, and other genetic manipulations have facilitated our ability to dissect specific circuits in rodent models to study their role in neurological disease. These approaches regularly use viral vectors to deliver genetic cargo (e.g., opsins) to specific tissues and genetically-engineered rodents to achieve cell-type specificity. However, the translatability of these rodent models, cross-species validation of identified targets, and translational efficacy of potential therapeutics in larger animal models like nonhuman primates remains difficult due to the lack of efficient primate viral vectors. A refined understanding of the nonhuman primate nervous system promises to deliver insights that can guide the development of treatments for neurological and neurodegenerative diseases. Here, we outline recent advances in the development of adeno-associated viral vectors for optimized use in nonhuman primates. These tools promise to help open new avenues for study in translational neuroscience and further our understanding of the primate brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lillian J. Campos
- Department of Psychology and the California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, CA, 05616, USA
- Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, 20815, USA
| | - Cynthia M. Arokiaraj
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, 91125, USA
- Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, 20815, USA
| | - Miguel R. Chuapoco
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, 91125, USA
- Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, 20815, USA
| | - Xinhong Chen
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, 91125, USA
| | - Nick Goeden
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, 91125, USA
- Capsida Biotherapeutics, Thousand Oaks, CA, 91320, USA
| | - Viviana Gradinaru
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, 91125, USA
- Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, 20815, USA
| | - Andrew S. Fox
- Department of Psychology and the California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, CA, 05616, USA
- Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, 20815, USA
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26
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Peek JL, Wilson MH. Cell and gene therapy for kidney disease. Nat Rev Nephrol 2023:10.1038/s41581-023-00702-3. [PMID: 36973494 DOI: 10.1038/s41581-023-00702-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
Kidney disease is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality across the globe. Current interventions for kidney disease include dialysis and renal transplantation, which have limited efficacy or availability and are often associated with complications such as cardiovascular disease and immunosuppression. There is therefore a pressing need for novel therapies for kidney disease. Notably, as many as 30% of kidney disease cases are caused by monogenic disease and are thus potentially amenable to genetic medicine, such as cell and gene therapy. Systemic disease that affects the kidney, such as diabetes and hypertension, might also be targetable by cell and gene therapy. However, although there are now several approved gene and cell therapies for inherited diseases that affect other organs, none targets the kidney. Promising recent advances in cell and gene therapy have been made, including in the kidney research field, suggesting that this form of therapy might represent a potential solution for kidney disease in the future. In this Review, we describe the potential for cell and gene therapy in treating kidney disease, focusing on recent genetic studies, key advances and emerging technologies, and we describe several crucial considerations for renal genetic and cell therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L Peek
- Medical Scientist Training Program, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, USA
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Matthew H Wilson
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA.
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA.
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA.
- Department of Veterans Affairs, Tennessee Valley Health Services, Nashville, TN, USA.
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27
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Han Z, Luo N, Wang F, Cai Y, Yang X, Feng W, Zhu Z, Wang J, Wu Y, Ye C, Lin K, Xu F. Computer-Aided Directed Evolution Generates Novel AAV Variants with High Transduction Efficiency. Viruses 2023; 15:848. [PMID: 37112829 PMCID: PMC10143561 DOI: 10.3390/v15040848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) have become safe and effective tools for therapeutic in vivo gene drug delivery. Among many AAV serotypes, AAV2 is the most well-characterized. Although many studies have been carried out on the engineering of the capsid VR-VIII region, few attempts have been made in the VR-IV region. Here, we targeted amino acid positions 442-469 of the VR-IV region and established an engineering paradigm of computer-aided directed evolution, based on training samples from previous datasets, to obtain a viral vector library with high diversity (~95,089). We further examined two variants selected from the library. The transduction efficiency of these two novel AAV variants, AAV2.A1 and AAV2.A2, in the central nervous system was 10-15 times higher than that of AAV2. This finding provides new vehicles for delivering gene drugs to the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zengpeng Han
- State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems, Wuhan Center for Magnetic Resonance, Innovation Academy for Precision Measurement Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Viral Vectors for Biomedicine, Key Laboratory of Quality Control Technology for Virus-Based Therapeutics, Guangdong Provincial Medical Products Administration, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Viral Vector Technology in Cell and Gene Therapy Medicinal Products, the Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute (BCBDI), Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Nengsong Luo
- Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Fei Wang
- iDrugDance Technology Co., Ltd., Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Yuxiang Cai
- Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Xin Yang
- ZhunAo Biotechnology Co., Ltd., Wuhan 430056, China
| | - Weiwei Feng
- ZhunAo Biotechnology Co., Ltd., Wuhan 430056, China
| | - Zhenxiang Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems, Wuhan Center for Magnetic Resonance, Innovation Academy for Precision Measurement Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Viral Vectors for Biomedicine, Key Laboratory of Quality Control Technology for Virus-Based Therapeutics, Guangdong Provincial Medical Products Administration, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Viral Vector Technology in Cell and Gene Therapy Medicinal Products, the Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute (BCBDI), Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Jie Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems, Wuhan Center for Magnetic Resonance, Innovation Academy for Precision Measurement Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yang Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems, Wuhan Center for Magnetic Resonance, Innovation Academy for Precision Measurement Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Chaohui Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems, Wuhan Center for Magnetic Resonance, Innovation Academy for Precision Measurement Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Kunzhang Lin
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Viral Vectors for Biomedicine, Key Laboratory of Quality Control Technology for Virus-Based Therapeutics, Guangdong Provincial Medical Products Administration, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Viral Vector Technology in Cell and Gene Therapy Medicinal Products, the Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute (BCBDI), Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Fuqiang Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems, Wuhan Center for Magnetic Resonance, Innovation Academy for Precision Measurement Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Viral Vectors for Biomedicine, Key Laboratory of Quality Control Technology for Virus-Based Therapeutics, Guangdong Provincial Medical Products Administration, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Viral Vector Technology in Cell and Gene Therapy Medicinal Products, the Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute (BCBDI), Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen 518055, China
- Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
- Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
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28
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Tumor antigen-loaded AAV vaccine drives protective immunity in a melanoma animal model. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2023; 28:301-311. [PMID: 36851984 PMCID: PMC9957711 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2023.01.006] [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: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
We previously described therapeutic opportunities provided by capsid- and expression cassette-optimized adeno-associated virus serotype 6 (AAV6) vectors to suppress tumor growth in both solid and metastatic mouse models by using artificial ovalbumin (OVA) immunogen. In the current study, we further elucidated the mechanism of function of a novel AAV-based vaccine loaded with the melanoma tumor-associated antigens premelanosome protein gp100, tyrosinase (Tyr), tyrosinase-related protein 1 (TRP1), and dopachrome tautomerase (TRP2). We showed that the AAV6-based vaccine creates cellular and humoral antigen-specific responses, while antigen expression at the site of vaccine injection was temporal, and the clearance of antigen coincided with T cell infiltration. Our data revealed the superior protective immune response of optimized AAV6-TRP1 compared with other self-antigens in a disease-free mouse model. We further assessed the ability of AAV6-TRP1 to protect animals from metastatic spread in the lungs and to extend animal survival by inhibiting solid tumor growth. Flow cytometry-based analysis indicated significant infiltration of CD8+ T cells and natural killer (NK) cells in the tumor site, as well as changes in the polarization of intratumoral macrophages. Altogether, our data strongly support the use of optimized AAV vectors for cancer vaccine development.
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29
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Cabanes-Creus M, Navarro RG, Liao SH, Scott S, Carlessi R, Roca-Pinilla R, Knight M, Baltazar G, Zhu E, Jones M, Denisenko E, Forrest AR, Alexander IE, Tirnitz-Parker JE, Lisowski L. Characterization of the humanized FRG mouse model and development of an AAV-LK03 variant with improved liver lobular biodistribution. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2023; 28:220-237. [PMID: 36700121 PMCID: PMC9860073 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2022.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Recent clinical successes have intensified interest in using adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors for therapeutic gene delivery. The liver is a key clinical target, given its critical physiological functions and involvement in a wide range of genetic diseases. In the present study, we first investigated the validity of a liver xenograft mouse model repopulated with primary hepatocytes using single-nucleus RNA sequencing (sn-RNA-seq) by studying the transcriptomic profile of human hepatocytes pre- and post-engraftment. Complementary immunofluorescence analyses performed in highly engrafted animals confirmed that the human hepatocytes organize and present appropriate patterns of zone-dependent enzyme expression in this model. Next, we tested a set of rationally designed HSPG de-targeted AAV-LK03 variants for relative transduction performance in human hepatocytes. We used immunofluorescence, next-generation sequencing, and single-nucleus transcriptomics data from highly engrafted FRG mice to demonstrate that the optimally HSPG de-targeted AAV-LK03 displayed a significantly improved lobular transduction profile in this model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marti Cabanes-Creus
- Translational Vectorology Research Unit, Children’s Medical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Renina Gale Navarro
- Translational Vectorology Research Unit, Children’s Medical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Sophia H.Y. Liao
- Translational Vectorology Research Unit, Children’s Medical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Suzanne Scott
- Translational Vectorology Research Unit, Children’s Medical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Rodrigo Carlessi
- Curtin Medical School, Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin University, Bentley, WA 6102, Australia
- Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, QEII Medical Centre and Centre for Medical Research, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Ramon Roca-Pinilla
- Translational Vectorology Research Unit, Children’s Medical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Maddison Knight
- Translational Vectorology Research Unit, Children’s Medical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Grober Baltazar
- Translational Vectorology Research Unit, Children’s Medical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Erhua Zhu
- Gene Therapy Research Unit, Children’s Medical Research Institute and The Children’s Hospital at Westmead, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, and Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Matthew Jones
- Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, QEII Medical Centre and Centre for Medical Research, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Elena Denisenko
- Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, QEII Medical Centre and Centre for Medical Research, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Alistair R.R. Forrest
- Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, QEII Medical Centre and Centre for Medical Research, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Ian E. Alexander
- Gene Therapy Research Unit, Children’s Medical Research Institute and The Children’s Hospital at Westmead, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, and Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
- Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Janina E.E. Tirnitz-Parker
- Curtin Medical School, Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin University, Bentley, WA 6102, Australia
- UWA Centre for Medical Research, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Leszek Lisowski
- Translational Vectorology Research Unit, Children’s Medical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Innovative Therapies, Military Institute of Medicine, 04-141 Warsaw, Poland
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30
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Szumska J, Grimm D. Boosters for adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector (r)evolution. Cytotherapy 2023; 25:254-260. [PMID: 35999132 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2022.07.005] [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: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV) is one of the most exciting and most versatile templates for engineering of gene-delivery vectors for use in human gene therapy, owing to the existence of numerous naturally occurring capsid variants and their amenability to directed molecular evolution. As a result, the field has witnessed an explosion of novel "designer" AAV capsids and ensuing vectors over the last two decades, which have been isolated from comprehensive capsid libraries generated through technologies such as DNA shuffling or peptide display, and stratified under stringent positive and/or negative selection pressures. Here, we briefly highlight a panel of recent, innovative and transformative methodologies that we consider to have exceptional potential to advance directed AAV capsid evolution and to thereby accelerate AAV vector revolution. These avenues comprise original technologies for (i) barcoding and high-throughput screening of individual AAV variants or entire capsid libraries, (ii) selection of transduction-competent AAV vectors on the DNA level, (iii) enrichment of expression-competent AAV variants on the RNA level, as well as (iv) high-resolution stratification of focused AAV capsid libraries on the single-cell level. Together with other emerging AAV engineering stratagems, such as rational design or machine learning, these pioneering techniques promise to provide an urgently needed booster for AAV (r)evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Szumska
- Department of Infectious Diseases/Virology, Section Viral Vector Technologies, Medical Faculty, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany; BioQuant Center and Center for Integrative Infectious Diseases Research (CIID), University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Dirk Grimm
- Department of Infectious Diseases/Virology, Section Viral Vector Technologies, Medical Faculty, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany; BioQuant Center and Center for Integrative Infectious Diseases Research (CIID), University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany; German Center for Infection Research (Deutsches Zentrum für Infektionsforschung, DZIF) and German Center for Cardiovascular Research (Deutsches Zentrum für Herz-Kreislauf-Erkrankungen, DZHK), partner site Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.
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Ghauri MS, Ou L. AAV Engineering for Improving Tropism to the Central Nervous System. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:186. [PMID: 36829465 PMCID: PMC9953251 DOI: 10.3390/biology12020186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2023] [Revised: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV) is a non-pathogenic virus that mainly infects primates with the help of adenoviruses. AAV is being widely used as a delivery vector for in vivo gene therapy, as evidenced by five currently approved drugs and more than 255 clinical trials across the world. Due to its relatively low immunogenicity and toxicity, sustained efficacy, and broad tropism, AAV holds great promise for treating many indications, including central nervous system (CNS), ocular, muscular, and liver diseases. However, low delivery efficiency, especially for the CNS due to the blood-brain barrier (BBB), remains a significant challenge for more clinical application of AAV gene therapy. Thus, there is an urgent need for utilizing AAV engineering to discover next-generation capsids with improved properties, e.g., enhanced BBB penetrance, lower immunogenicity, and higher packaging efficiency. AAV engineering methods, including directed evolution, rational design, and in silico design, have been developed, resulting in the discovery of novel capsids (e.g., PhP.B, B10, PAL1A/B/C). In this review, we discuss key studies that identified engineered CNS capsids and/or established methodological improvements. Further, we also discussed important issues that need to be addressed, including cross-species translatability, cell specificity, and modular engineering to improve multiple properties simultaneously.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad S. Ghauri
- School of Medicine, California University of Science and Medicine, Colton, CA 92324, USA
| | - Li Ou
- Genemagic Biosciences, Media, PA 19086, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55454, USA
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Abstract
Gene therapy is poised to revolutionize modern medicine, with seemingly unlimited potential for treating and curing genetic disorders. For otherwise incurable indications, including most inherited metabolic liver disorders, gene therapy provides a realistic therapeutic option. In this Review, we discuss gene supplementation and gene editing involving the use of recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) vectors for the treatment of inherited liver diseases, including updates on several ongoing clinical trials that are producing promising results. Clinical testing has been essential in highlighting many key translational challenges associated with this transformative therapy. In particular, the interaction of a patient's immune system with the vector raises issues of safety and the duration of treatment efficacy. Furthermore, several serious adverse events after the administration of high doses of rAAVs suggest greater involvement of innate immune responses and pre-existing hepatic conditions than initially anticipated. Finally, permanent modification of the host genome associated with rAAV genome integration and gene editing raises concerns about the risk of oncogenicity that require careful evaluation. We summarize the main progress, challenges and pathways forward for gene therapy for liver diseases.
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Burr A, Erickson P, Bento R, Shama K, Roth C, Parekkadan B. Allometric-like scaling of AAV gene therapy for systemic protein delivery. MOLECULAR THERAPY - METHODS & CLINICAL DEVELOPMENT 2022; 27:368-379. [DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2022.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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Suoranta T, Laham-Karam N, Ylä-Herttuala S. Strategies to improve safety profile of AAV vectors. FRONTIERS IN MOLECULAR MEDICINE 2022; 2:1054069. [PMID: 39086961 PMCID: PMC11285686 DOI: 10.3389/fmmed.2022.1054069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors are currently used in four approved gene therapies for Leber congenital amaurosis (Luxturna), spinal muscular atrophy (Zolgensma), aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase deficiency (Upstaza) and Haemophilia A (Roctavian), with several more therapies being investigated in clinical trials. AAV gene therapy has long been considered extremely safe both in the context of immunotoxicity and genotoxicity, but recent tragic deaths in the clinical trials for X-linked myotubular myopathy and Duchenne's muscular dystrophy, together with increasing reports of potential hepatic oncogenicity in animal models have prompted re-evaluation of how much trust we can place on the safety of AAV gene therapy, especially at high doses. In this review we cover genome and capsid engineering strategies that can be used to improve safety of the next generation AAV vectors both in the context of immunogenicity and genotoxicity and discuss the gaps that need filling in our current knowledge about AAV vectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuisku Suoranta
- A. I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Nihay Laham-Karam
- A. I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Seppo Ylä-Herttuala
- A. I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
- Heart Center, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland
- Gene Therapy Unit, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland
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Gonzalez TJ, Simon KE, Blondel LO, Fanous MM, Roger AL, Maysonet MS, Devlin GW, Smith TJ, Oh DK, Havlik LP, Castellanos Rivera RM, Piedrahita JA, ElMallah MK, Gersbach CA, Asokan A. Cross-species evolution of a highly potent AAV variant for therapeutic gene transfer and genome editing. Nat Commun 2022; 13:5947. [PMID: 36210364 PMCID: PMC9548504 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-33745-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Recombinant adeno-associated viral (AAV) vectors are a promising gene delivery platform, but ongoing clinical trials continue to highlight a relatively narrow therapeutic window. Effective clinical translation is confounded, at least in part, by differences in AAV biology across animal species. Here, we tackle this challenge by sequentially evolving AAV capsid libraries in mice, pigs and macaques. We discover a highly potent, cross-species compatible variant (AAV.cc47) that shows improved attributes benchmarked against AAV serotype 9 as evidenced by robust reporter and therapeutic gene expression, Cre recombination and CRISPR genome editing in normal and diseased mouse models. Enhanced transduction efficiency of AAV.cc47 vectors is further corroborated in macaques and pigs, providing a strong rationale for potential clinical translation into human gene therapies. We envision that ccAAV vectors may not only improve predictive modeling in preclinical studies, but also clinical translatability by broadening the therapeutic window of AAV based gene therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trevor J Gonzalez
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Katherine E Simon
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
- North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Leo O Blondel
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Marco M Fanous
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Angela L Roger
- Department of Pediatrics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | - Garth W Devlin
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Timothy J Smith
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Daniel K Oh
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - L Patrick Havlik
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | - Jorge A Piedrahita
- North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Mai K ElMallah
- Department of Pediatrics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Charles A Gersbach
- Duke Regeneration Center, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Aravind Asokan
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA.
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA.
- Duke Regeneration Center, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA.
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Tang H, Zhu W, Cao L, Zhang J, Li J, Ma D, Guo C. miR-210-3p protects against osteoarthritis through inhibiting subchondral angiogenesis by targeting the expression of TGFBR1 and ID4. Front Immunol 2022; 13:982278. [PMID: 36263050 PMCID: PMC9575949 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.982278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Excessive subchondral angiogenesis is a key pathological feature of osteoarthritis (OA), as it alters the balance of subchondral bone remodeling and causes progressive cartilage degradation. We previously found that miR-210-3p correlates negatively with angiogenesis, though the specific mechanism of miR-210-3p-related angiogenesis in subchondral bone during OA progression remains unclear. This study was conducted to identify the miR-210-3p-modulating subchondral angiogenesis mechanism in OA and investigate its therapeutic effect. We found that miR-210-3p expression correlated negatively with subchondral endomucin positive (Emcn+) vasculature in the knee joints of OA mice. miR-210-3p overexpression regulated the angiogenic ability of endothelial cells (ECs) under hypoxic conditions in vitro. Mechanistically, miR-210-3p inhibited ECs angiogenesis by suppressing transforming growth factor beta receptor 1 (TGFBR1) mRNA translation and degrading DNA-binding inhibitor 4 (ID4) mRNA. In addition, TGFBR1 downregulated the expression of ID4. Reduced ID4 levels led to a negative feedback regulation of TGFBR1, enhancing the inhibitory effect of miR-210-3p on angiogenesis. In OA mice, miR-210-3p overexpression in ECs via adeno-associated virus (AAV) alleviated cartilage degradation, suppressed the type 17 immune response and relieved symptoms by attenuating subchondral Emcn+ vasculature and subchondral bone remodeling. In conclusion, we identified a miR-210-3p/TGFBR1/ID4 axis in subchondral ECs that modulates OA progression via subchondral angiogenesis, representing a potential OA therapy target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Tang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenrun Zhu
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lu Cao
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jin Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Ministry of Education, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Juncheng Li
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Duan Ma
- Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Ministry of Education, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Changan Guo, ; Duan Ma,
| | - Changan Guo
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Changan Guo, ; Duan Ma,
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Jäschke N, Büning H. Adeno-Associated Virus Vector Design-Moving the Adeno-Associated Virus to a Bioengineered Therapeutic Nanoparticle. Hematol Oncol Clin North Am 2022; 36:667-685. [PMID: 35778330 DOI: 10.1016/j.hoc.2022.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Although the number of market-approved gene therapies is still low, this new class of therapeutics has become an integral part of modern medicine. The success and safety of gene therapy depend on the vectors used to deliver the therapeutic material. Adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors have emerged as the most frequently used delivery system for in vivo gene therapy. This success was achieved with first-generation vectors, using capsids derived from natural AAV serotypes. Their broad tropism, the high seroprevalence for many of the AAV serotypes in the human population, and the high vector doses needed to transduce a sufficient number of therapy-relevant target cells are challenges that are addressed by engineering the capsid and the vector genome, improving the efficacy of these biological nanoparticles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nico Jäschke
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, Carl-Neuberg-Str.1, Hannover 30625, Germany
| | - Hildegard Büning
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, Carl-Neuberg-Str.1, Hannover 30625, Germany; REBIRTH Research Center for Translational Regenerative Medicine, Hannover Medical School, Carl-Neuberg-Str.1, Hannover 30625, Germany; German Center for Infection Research, Partner Site Hannover-Braunschweig.
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Becker J, Fakhiri J, Grimm D. Fantastic AAV Gene Therapy Vectors and How to Find Them—Random Diversification, Rational Design and Machine Learning. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11070756. [PMID: 35890005 PMCID: PMC9318892 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11070756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Parvoviruses are a diverse family of small, non-enveloped DNA viruses that infect a wide variety of species, tissues and cell types. For over half a century, their intriguing biology and pathophysiology has fueled intensive research aimed at dissecting the underlying viral and cellular mechanisms. Concurrently, their broad host specificity (tropism) has motivated efforts to develop parvoviruses as gene delivery vectors for human cancer or gene therapy applications. While the sum of preclinical and clinical data consistently demonstrates the great potential of these vectors, these findings also illustrate the importance of enhancing and restricting in vivo transgene expression in desired cell types. To this end, major progress has been made especially with vectors based on Adeno-associated virus (AAV), whose capsid is highly amenable to bioengineering, repurposing and expansion of its natural tropism. Here, we provide an overview of the state-of-the-art approaches to create new AAV variants with higher specificity and efficiency of gene transfer in on-target cells. We first review traditional and novel directed evolution approaches, including high-throughput screening of AAV capsid libraries. Next, we discuss programmable receptor-mediated targeting with a focus on two recent technologies that utilize high-affinity binders. Finally, we highlight one of the latest stratagems for rational AAV vector characterization and optimization, namely, machine learning, which promises to facilitate and accelerate the identification of next-generation, safe and precise gene delivery vehicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Becker
- Department of Infectious Diseases/Virology, Medical Faculty, University of Heidelberg, Center for Integrative Infectious Diseases Research (CIID), BioQuant, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany;
- Faculty of Biosciences, University of Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Julia Fakhiri
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Therapeutic Modalities, Roche Innovation Center Munich, Roche Diagnostics GmbH, Nonnenwald 2, 82377 Penzberg, Germany
- Correspondence: (J.F.); (D.G.); Tel.: +49-174-3486203 (J.F.); +49-6221-5451331 (D.G.)
| | - Dirk Grimm
- Department of Infectious Diseases/Virology, Medical Faculty, University of Heidelberg, Center for Integrative Infectious Diseases Research (CIID), BioQuant, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany;
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Correspondence: (J.F.); (D.G.); Tel.: +49-174-3486203 (J.F.); +49-6221-5451331 (D.G.)
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