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Maji D, Miguela V, Cameron AD, Campbell DA, Sasset L, Yao X, Thompson AT, Sussman C, Yang D, Miller R, Drozdz MM, Liberatore RA. Enhancing In Vivo Electroporation Efficiency through Hyaluronidase: Insights into Plasmid Distribution and Optimization Strategies. Pharmaceutics 2024; 16:547. [PMID: 38675208 PMCID: PMC11053992 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16040547] [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: 03/01/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Electroporation (EP) stands out as a promising non-viral plasmid delivery strategy, although achieving optimal transfection efficiency in vivo remains a challenge. A noteworthy advancement in the field of in vivo EP is the application of hyaluronidase, an enzyme with the capacity to degrade hyaluronic acid in the extracellular matrix, which thereby enhances DNA transfer efficiency by 2- to 3-fold. This paper focuses on elucidating the mechanism of hyaluronidase's impact on transfection efficiency. We demonstrate that hyaluronidase promotes a more uniform distribution of plasmid DNA (pDNA) within skeletal muscle. Additionally, our study investigates the effect of the timing of hyaluronidase pretreatment on EP efficiency by including time intervals of 0, 5, and 30 min between hyaluronidase treatment and the application of pulses. Serum levels of the pDNA-encoded transgene reveal a minimal influence of the hyaluronidase pretreatment time on the final serum protein levels following delivery in both mice and rabbit models. Leveraging bioimpedance measurements, we capture morphological changes in muscle induced by hyaluronidase treatment, which result in a varied pDNA distribution. Subsequently, these findings are employed to optimize EP electrical parameters following hyaluronidase treatment in animal models. This paper offers novel insights into the potential of hyaluronidase in enhancing the effectiveness of in vivo EP, as well as guides optimized electroporation strategies following hyaluronidase use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debnath Maji
- RenBio Inc., Long Island City, New York, NY 11101, USA
| | - Verónica Miguela
- RenBio Inc., Long Island City, New York, NY 11101, USA
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas—Universidad Miguel Hernández de Elche, Sant Joan d’Alacant, 03550 Alicante, Spain
| | | | | | - Linda Sasset
- RenBio Inc., Long Island City, New York, NY 11101, USA
| | - Xin Yao
- RenBio Inc., Long Island City, New York, NY 11101, USA
| | | | | | - David Yang
- RenBio Inc., Long Island City, New York, NY 11101, USA
- Department of Genetics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Robert Miller
- RenBio Inc., Long Island City, New York, NY 11101, USA
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Shi Y, Weng W, Chen M, Huang H, Chen X, Peng Y, Hu Y. Improving DNA vaccination performance through a new microbubble design and an optimized sonoporation protocol. ULTRASONICS SONOCHEMISTRY 2023; 101:106685. [PMID: 37976565 PMCID: PMC10692915 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultsonch.2023.106685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
As a non-viral transfection method, ultrasound and microbubble-induced sonoporation can achieve spatially targeted gene delivery with synergistic immunostimulatory effects. Here, we report for the first time the application of sonoporation for improving DNA vaccination performance. This study developed a new microbubble design with nanoscale DNA/PEI complexes loaded onto cationic microbubbles to attain significant increases in DNA-loading capacity (0.25 pg per microbubble) and in vitro transfection efficiency. Using live-cell imaging, we revealed the membrane perforation and cellular delivery characteristics of sonoporation. Using luciferase reporter gene for in vivo transfection, we showed that sonoporation increased the transfection efficiency by 40.9-fold when compared with intramuscular injection. Moreover, we comprehensively optimized the sonoporation protocol and further increased the transfection efficiency by 43.6-fold. Immunofluorescent staining results showed that sonoporation effectively activated the MHC-II+ immune cells. Using a hepatitis B DNA vaccine, sonoporation induced significantly higher serum antibody levels when compared with intramuscular injection, and the antibodies sustained for 56 weeks. In addition, we recorded the longest reported expression period (400 days) of the sonoporation-delivered gene. Whole genome resequencing confirmed that the gene with stable expression existed in an extrachromosomal state without integration. Our results demonstrated the potential of sonoporation for efficient and safe DNA vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanchao Shi
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518055, Guangdong, China; National-regional Key Technology Engineering Laboratory for Medical Ultrasound, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518055, Guangdong, China
| | - Weixiong Weng
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518055, Guangdong, China; National-regional Key Technology Engineering Laboratory for Medical Ultrasound, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518055, Guangdong, China
| | - Mengting Chen
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518055, Guangdong, China; National-regional Key Technology Engineering Laboratory for Medical Ultrasound, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518055, Guangdong, China
| | - Haoqiang Huang
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518055, Guangdong, China; National-regional Key Technology Engineering Laboratory for Medical Ultrasound, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518055, Guangdong, China
| | - Xin Chen
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518055, Guangdong, China; National-regional Key Technology Engineering Laboratory for Medical Ultrasound, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518055, Guangdong, China
| | - Yin Peng
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518055, Guangdong, China
| | - Yaxin Hu
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518055, Guangdong, China; National-regional Key Technology Engineering Laboratory for Medical Ultrasound, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518055, Guangdong, China.
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Nakamura S, Morohoshi K, Inada E, Sato Y, Watanabe S, Saitoh I, Sato M. Recent Advances in In Vivo Somatic Cell Gene Modification in Newborn Pups. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15301. [PMID: 37894981 PMCID: PMC10607593 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242015301] [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: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Germline manipulation at the zygote stage using the CRISPR/Cas9 system has been extensively employed for creating genetically modified animals and maintaining established lines. However, this approach requires a long and laborious task. Recently, many researchers have attempted to overcome these limitations by generating somatic mutations in the adult stage through tail vein injection or local administration of CRISPR reagents, as a new strategy called "in vivo somatic cell genome editing". This approach does not require manipulation of early embryos or strain maintenance, and it can test the results of genome editing in a short period. The newborn is an ideal stage to perform in vivo somatic cell genome editing because it is immune-privileged, easily accessible, and only a small amount of CRISPR reagents is required to achieve somatic cell genome editing throughout the entire body, owing to its small size. In this review, we summarize in vivo genome engineering strategies that have been successfully demonstrated in newborns. We also report successful in vivo genome editing through the neonatal introduction of genome editing reagents into various sites in newborns (as exemplified by intravenous injection via the facial vein), which will be helpful for creating models for genetic diseases or treating many genetic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shingo Nakamura
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, National Defense Medical College Research Institute, Tokorozawa 359-8513, Japan;
| | - Kazunori Morohoshi
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, National Defense Medical College Research Institute, Tokorozawa 359-8513, Japan;
| | - Emi Inada
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-8544, Japan;
| | - Yoko Sato
- Graduate School of Public Health, Shizuoka Graduate University of Public Health, Aoi-ku, Shizuoka 420-0881, Japan;
| | - Satoshi Watanabe
- Institute of Livestock and Grassland Science, NARO, Tsukuba 305-0901, Japan;
| | - Issei Saitoh
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Asahi University School of Dentistry, Mizuho 501-0296, Japan;
| | - Masahiro Sato
- Department of Genome Medicine, National Center for Child Health and Development, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 157-8535, Japan;
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Cuypers ML, Geukens N, Hollevoet K, Declerck P, Dewilde M. Exploring the Fate of Antibody-Encoding pDNA after Intramuscular Electroporation in Mice. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15041160. [PMID: 37111645 PMCID: PMC10146361 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15041160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
DNA-based antibody therapy seeks to administer the encoding nucleotide sequence rather than the antibody protein. To further improve the in vivo monoclonal antibody (mAb) expression, a better understanding of what happens after the administration of the encoding plasmid DNA (pDNA) is required. This study reports the quantitative evaluation and localization of the administered pDNA over time and its association with corresponding mRNA levels and systemic protein concentrations. pDNA encoding the murine anti-HER2 4D5 mAb was administered to BALB/c mice via intramuscular injection followed by electroporation. Muscle biopsies and blood samples were taken at different time points (up to 3 months). In muscle, pDNA levels decreased 90% between 24 h and one week post treatment (p < 0.0001). In contrast, mRNA levels remained stable over time. The 4D5 antibody plasma concentrations reached peak levels at week two followed by a slow decrease (50% after 12 weeks, p < 0.0001). Evaluation of pDNA localization revealed that extranuclear pDNA was cleared fast, whereas the nuclear fraction remained relatively stable. This is in line with the observed mRNA and protein levels over time and indicates that only a minor fraction of the administered pDNA is ultimately responsible for the observed systemic mAb levels. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that durable expression is dependent on the nuclear uptake of the pDNA. Therefore, efforts to increase the protein levels upon pDNA-based gene therapy should focus on strategies to increase both cellular entry and migration of the pDNA into the nucleus. The currently applied methodology can be used to guide the design and evaluation of novel plasmid-based vectors or alternative delivery methods in order to achieve a robust and prolonged protein expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Lynn Cuypers
- Laboratory for Therapeutic and Diagnostic Antibodies, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven-University of Leuven, O&N II Herestraat 49 Box 820, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Nick Geukens
- PharmAbs-The KU Leuven Antibody Center, KU Leuven-University of Leuven, O&N II Herestraat 49 Box 820, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Kevin Hollevoet
- PharmAbs-The KU Leuven Antibody Center, KU Leuven-University of Leuven, O&N II Herestraat 49 Box 820, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Paul Declerck
- Laboratory for Therapeutic and Diagnostic Antibodies, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven-University of Leuven, O&N II Herestraat 49 Box 820, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- PharmAbs-The KU Leuven Antibody Center, KU Leuven-University of Leuven, O&N II Herestraat 49 Box 820, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Maarten Dewilde
- Laboratory for Therapeutic and Diagnostic Antibodies, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven-University of Leuven, O&N II Herestraat 49 Box 820, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- PharmAbs-The KU Leuven Antibody Center, KU Leuven-University of Leuven, O&N II Herestraat 49 Box 820, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
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5
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Potočnik T, Maček Lebar A, Kos Š, Reberšek M, Pirc E, Serša G, Miklavčič D. Effect of Experimental Electrical and Biological Parameters on Gene Transfer by Electroporation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14122700. [PMID: 36559197 PMCID: PMC9786189 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14122700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The exact mechanisms of nucleic acid (NA) delivery with gene electrotransfer (GET) are still unknown, which represents a limitation for its broader use. Further, not knowing the effects that different experimental electrical and biological parameters have on GET additionally hinders GET optimization, resulting in the majority of research being performed using a trial-and-error approach. To explore the current state of knowledge, we conducted a systematic literature review of GET papers in in vitro conditions and performed meta-analyses of the reported GET efficiency. For now, there is no universal GET strategy that would be appropriate for all experimental aims. Apart from the availability of the required electroporation device and electrodes, the choice of an optimal GET approach depends on parameters such as the electroporation medium; type and origin of cells; and the size, concentration, promoter, and type of the NA to be transfected. Equally important are appropriate controls and the measurement or evaluation of the output pulses to allow a fair and unbiased evaluation of the experimental results. Since many experimental electrical and biological parameters can affect GET, it is important that all used parameters are adequately reported to enable the comparison of results, as well as potentially faster and more efficient experiment planning and optimization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tjaša Potočnik
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering, University of Ljubljana, Tržaška 25, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Alenka Maček Lebar
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering, University of Ljubljana, Tržaška 25, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Špela Kos
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Zaloška cesta 2, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Matej Reberšek
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering, University of Ljubljana, Tržaška 25, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Eva Pirc
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering, University of Ljubljana, Tržaška 25, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Gregor Serša
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Zaloška cesta 2, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Damijan Miklavčič
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering, University of Ljubljana, Tržaška 25, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Correspondence:
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6
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Hughes DC, Hardee JP, Waddell DS, Goodman CA. CORP: Gene delivery into murine skeletal muscle using in vivo electroporation. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2022; 133:41-59. [PMID: 35511722 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00088.2022] [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: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The strategy of gene delivery into skeletal muscles has provided exciting avenues in identifying new potential therapeutics towards muscular disorders and addressing basic research questions in muscle physiology through overexpression and knockdown studies. In vivo electroporation methodology offers a simple, rapidly effective technique for the delivery of plasmid DNA into post-mitotic skeletal muscle fibers and the ability to easily explore the molecular mechanisms of skeletal muscle plasticity. The purpose of this review is to describe how to robustly electroporate plasmid DNA into different hindlimb muscles of rodent models. Further, key parameters (e.g., voltage, hyaluronidase, plasmid concentration) which contribute to the successful introduction of plasmid DNA into skeletal muscle fibers will be discussed. In addition, details on processing tissue for immunohistochemistry and fiber cross-sectional area (CSA) analysis will be outlined. The overall goal of this review is to provide the basic and necessary information needed for successful implementation of in vivo electroporation of plasmid DNA and thus open new avenues of discovery research in skeletal muscle physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- David C Hughes
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
| | - Justin P Hardee
- Centre for Muscle Research (CMR), Department of Anatomy and Physiology, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - David S Waddell
- Department of Biology, University of North Florida, Jacksonville, FL, United States
| | - Craig A Goodman
- Centre for Muscle Research (CMR), Department of Anatomy and Physiology, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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7
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Florio F, Accordini S, Libergoli M, Biressi S. Targeting Muscle-Resident Single Cells Through in vivo Electro-Enhanced Plasmid Transfer in Healthy and Compromised Skeletal Muscle. Front Physiol 2022; 13:834705. [PMID: 35431987 PMCID: PMC9010744 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.834705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Skeletal muscle is composed of syncytial muscle fibers, and by various mononucleated cellular types, such as muscle stem cells, immune cells, interstitial and stromal progenitors. These cell populations play a crucial role during muscle regeneration, and alterations of their phenotypic properties have been associated with defective repair and fibrosis in aging and dystrophic muscle. Studies involving in vivo gene modulation are valuable to investigate the mechanisms underlining cell function and dysfunction in complex pathophysiological settings. Electro-enhanced transfer of plasmids using square-wave generating devices represents a cost-effective approach that is widely used to transport DNA to muscle fibers efficiently. Still, it is not clear if this method can also be applied to mononuclear cells present in muscle. We demonstrate here that it is possible to efficiently deliver DNA into different muscle–resident cell populations in vivo. We evaluated the efficiency of this approach not only in healthy muscle but also in muscles of aging and dystrophic animal models. As an exemplificative application of this method, we used a strategy relying on a reporter gene-based plasmid containing regulatory sequences from the collagen 1 locus, and we determined collagen expression in various cell types reportedly involved in the production of fibrotic tissue in the dystrophic settings. The results enclosed in this manuscript reveal the suitability in applying electro-enhanced transfer of plasmid DNA to mononucleated muscle-resident cells to get insights into the molecular events governing diseased muscle physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Florio
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology (CIBIO), University of Trento, Trento, Italy
- Dulbecco Telethon Institute at University of Trento, Trento, Italy
| | - Silvia Accordini
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology (CIBIO), University of Trento, Trento, Italy
| | - Michela Libergoli
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology (CIBIO), University of Trento, Trento, Italy
- Dulbecco Telethon Institute at University of Trento, Trento, Italy
| | - Stefano Biressi
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology (CIBIO), University of Trento, Trento, Italy
- Dulbecco Telethon Institute at University of Trento, Trento, Italy
- *Correspondence: Stefano Biressi,
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8
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Holloway GP, Nickerson JG, Lally JSV, Petrick HL, Dennis KMJH, Jain SS, Alkhateeb H, Bonen A. Co-overexpression of CD36 and FABPpm increases fatty acid transport additively, not synergistically, within muscle. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2022; 322:C546-C553. [PMID: 35138177 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00435.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
We aimed to determine the combined effects of over-expressing FABPpm and CD36 on skeletal muscle fatty acid transport to establish if these transport proteins function collaboratively. Electrotransfection with either FABPpm or CD36 increased their protein content at the plasma membrane (+75% and +64%), increased fatty acid transport rates +24% for FABPpm and +62% for CD36, resulting in a calculated transport efficiency of ~0.019 and ~0.053 per unit protein change for FABPpm and CD36, respectively. We subsequently used these data to determine if increasing both proteins additively or synergistically increased fatty acid transport. Co-transfection of FABPpm and CD36 simultaneously increased protein content in whole muscle (FABPpm, +46%; CD36, +45%) and at the sarcolemma (FABPpm, +41% and CD36, +42%), as well as fatty acid transport rates (+50%). Since the relative effects of changing FABPpm and CD36 content had been independently determined, we were able to a predict a change in fatty acid transport based on the overexpression of plasmalemmal transporters in the co-transfection experiments. This prediction yielded an increase in fatty acid transport of +0.984 and +1.722 pmol/mg prot/15sec for FABPpm and CD36, respectively, for a total increase of +2.96 pmol/mg prot/15sec. This calculated determination was remarkably consistent with the measured change in transport, namely +2.89 pmol/mg prot/15sec. Altogether, these data indicate that increasing CD36 and FABPpm alters fatty acid transport rates additively, but not synergistically, suggesting an independent mechanism-of-action within muscle for each transporter. This conclusion was further supported by the observation that plasmalemmal CD36 and FABPpm did not co-immunoprecipitate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Graham P Holloway
- Human Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canad
| | | | - James S V Lally
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Heather L Petrick
- Human Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canad
| | - Kaitlyn M J H Dennis
- Human Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canad
| | - Swati S Jain
- Human Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canad
| | | | - Arend Bonen
- Human Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canad
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9
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Transcriptional effects of electroporation on Echinococcus multilocularis primary cell culture. Parasitol Res 2022; 121:1155-1168. [DOI: 10.1007/s00436-022-07427-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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10
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Pagant S, Liberatore RA. In Vivo Electroporation of Plasmid DNA: A Promising Strategy for Rapid, Inexpensive, and Flexible Delivery of Anti-Viral Monoclonal Antibodies. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:1882. [PMID: 34834297 PMCID: PMC8618954 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13111882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the first approval of monoclonal antibodies by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1986, therapeutic antibodies have become one of the predominant classes of drugs in oncology and immunology. Despite their natural function in contributing to antiviral immunity, antibodies as drugs have only more recently been thought of as tools for combating infectious diseases. Passive immunization, or the delivery of the products of an immune response, offers near-immediate protection, unlike the active immune processes triggered by traditional vaccines, which rely on the time it takes for the host's immune system to develop an effective defense. This rapid onset of protection is particularly well suited to containing outbreaks of emerging viral diseases. Despite these positive attributes, the high cost associated with antibody manufacture and the need for a cold chain for storage and transport limit their deployment on a global scale, especially in areas with limited resources. The in vivo transfer of nucleic acid-based technologies encoding optimized therapeutic antibodies transform the body into a bioreactor for rapid and sustained production of biologics and hold great promise for circumventing the obstacles faced by the traditional delivery of antibodies. In this review, we provide an overview of the different antibody delivery strategies that are currently being developed, with particular emphasis on in vivo transfection of naked plasmid DNA facilitated by electroporation.
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11
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Ramot Y, Caselli G, Aurisicchio L, Andreini I, Marra E, Luberto L, Stoppoloni D, Pacello ML, Monetini L, Nyska A. Toxicity and Local Tolerance of COVID- eVax, a Plasmid DNA Vaccine for SARS-CoV-2, Delivered by Electroporation. Toxicol Pathol 2021; 49:1255-1268. [PMID: 34493107 DOI: 10.1177/01926233211042263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
COVID-19 is a rapidly spreading disease, posing a huge hazard to global health. The plasmid vaccine pTK1A-TPA-SpikeA (named COVID-eVax) encodes the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 S protein receptor-binding domain, developed for intramuscular injection followed by electroporation (EP). The aim of this study was to assess the systemic toxicity and local tolerance of COVID-eVax delivered intramuscularly followed by EP in Sprague Dawley (SD) rats. The animals were killed 2 days and 4 weeks after the last injection (30-day and 57-day, respectively). No mortality was observed, and no signs of toxicity were evident, including injection site reactions. A lasting and specific immune response was observed in all treated animals, confirming the relevance of the rat as a toxicological model for this vaccine. Histopathological evaluation revealed muscle fiber necrosis associated with subchronic inflammation at the injection sites (at the 30-day time point), with a clear trend for recovery at the 57-day time point, which is expected following EP, and considered a desirable effect to mount the immune response against the target antigen. In conclusion, the intramuscular EP-assisted DNA vaccine, COVID-eVax showed an excellent safety profile in SD rats under these experimental conditions and supports its further development for use in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuval Ramot
- Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel.,Department of Dermatology, 58884Hadassah Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
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12
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Chong ZX, Yeap SK, Ho WY. Transfection types, methods and strategies: a technical review. PeerJ 2021; 9:e11165. [PMID: 33976969 PMCID: PMC8067914 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.11165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2020] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Transfection is a modern and powerful method used to insert foreign nucleic acids into eukaryotic cells. The ability to modify host cells’ genetic content enables the broad application of this process in studying normal cellular processes, disease molecular mechanism and gene therapeutic effect. In this review, we summarized and compared the findings from various reported literature on the characteristics, strengths, and limitations of various transfection methods, type of transfected nucleic acids, transfection controls and approaches to assess transfection efficiency. With the vast choices of approaches available, we hope that this review will help researchers, especially those new to the field, in their decision making over the transfection protocol or strategy appropriate for their experimental aims.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi Xiong Chong
- School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham Malaysia, Semenyih, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Swee Keong Yeap
- China-ASEAN College of Marine Sciences, Xiamen University Malaysia, Sepang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Wan Yong Ho
- School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham Malaysia, Semenyih, Selangor, Malaysia
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13
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Biological factors of the tumour response to electrochemotherapy: Review of the evidence and a research roadmap. Eur J Surg Oncol 2021; 47:1836-1846. [PMID: 33726951 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejso.2021.03.229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Revised: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The beneficial effects of electrochemotherapy (ECT) for superficial tumours and, more recently, deep-seated malignancies in terms of local control and quality of life are widely accepted. However, the variability in responses across histotypes needs to be explored. Currently, patient selection for ECT is based on clinical factors (tumour size, histotype, and exposure to previous oncological treatments), whereas there are no biomarkers to predict the response to treatment. In this field, two major areas of investigation can be identified, i.e., tumour cell characteristics and the tumour microenvironment (vasculature, extracellular matrix, and immune infiltrate). For each of these areas, we describe the current knowledge and discuss how to foster further investigation. This review aims to provide a summary of the currently used guiding clinical factors and delineates a research roadmap for future studies to identify putative biomarkers of response to ECT. These biomarkers may allow researchers to improve ECT practice by customising treatment parameters, manipulating the tumour and its microenvironment, and exploring novel therapeutic combinations.
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14
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Deal CE, Carfi A, Plante OJ. Advancements in mRNA Encoded Antibodies for Passive Immunotherapy. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:vaccines9020108. [PMID: 33572679 PMCID: PMC7910832 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9020108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2021] [Revised: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Monoclonal antibodies are the fastest growing therapeutic class in medicine today. They hold great promise for a myriad of indications, including cancer, allergy, autoimmune and infectious diseases. However, the wide accessibility of these therapeutics is hindered by manufacturing and purification challenges that result in high costs and long lead times. Efforts are being made to find alternative ways to produce and deliver antibodies in more expedient and cost-effective platforms. The field of mRNA has made significant progress in the last ten years and has emerged as a highly attractive means of encoding and producing any protein of interest in vivo. Through the natural role of mRNA as a transient carrier of genetic information for translation into proteins, in vivo expression of mRNA-encoded antibodies offer many advantages over recombinantly produced antibodies. In this review, we examine both preclinical and clinical studies that demonstrate the feasibility of mRNA-encoded antibodies and discuss the remaining challenges ahead.
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15
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Gantenbein B, Tang S, Guerrero J, Higuita-Castro N, Salazar-Puerta AI, Croft AS, Gazdhar A, Purmessur D. Non-viral Gene Delivery Methods for Bone and Joints. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2020; 8:598466. [PMID: 33330428 PMCID: PMC7711090 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.598466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Viral carrier transport efficiency of gene delivery is high, depending on the type of vector. However, viral delivery poses significant safety concerns such as inefficient/unpredictable reprogramming outcomes, genomic integration, as well as unwarranted immune responses and toxicity. Thus, non-viral gene delivery methods are more feasible for translation as these allow safer delivery of genes and can modulate gene expression transiently both in vivo, ex vivo, and in vitro. Based on current studies, the efficiency of these technologies appears to be more limited, but they are appealing for clinical translation. This review presents a summary of recent advancements in orthopedics, where primarily bone and joints from the musculoskeletal apparatus were targeted. In connective tissues, which are known to have a poor healing capacity, and have a relatively low cell-density, i.e., articular cartilage, bone, and the intervertebral disk (IVD) several approaches have recently been undertaken. We provide a brief overview of the existing technologies, using nano-spheres/engineered vesicles, lipofection, and in vivo electroporation. Here, delivery for microRNA (miRNA), and silencing RNA (siRNA) and DNA plasmids will be discussed. Recent studies will be summarized that aimed to improve regeneration of these tissues, involving the delivery of bone morphogenic proteins (BMPs), such as BMP2 for improvement of bone healing. For articular cartilage/osteochondral junction, non-viral methods concentrate on targeted delivery to chondrocytes or MSCs for tissue engineering-based approaches. For the IVD, growth factors such as GDF5 or GDF6 or developmental transcription factors such as Brachyury or FOXF1 seem to be of high clinical interest. However, the most efficient method of gene transfer is still elusive, as several preclinical studies have reported many different non-viral methods and clinical translation of these techniques still needs to be validated. Here we discuss the non-viral methods applied for bone and joint and propose methods that can be promising in clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Gantenbein
- Tissue Engineering for Orthopaedics and Mechanobiology, Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), Faculty of Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Shirley Tang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Department of Orthopaedics, Spine Research Institute Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Julien Guerrero
- Tissue Engineering for Orthopaedics and Mechanobiology, Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), Faculty of Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Natalia Higuita-Castro
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Department of Surgery, Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Ana I Salazar-Puerta
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Department of Surgery, Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Andreas S Croft
- Tissue Engineering for Orthopaedics and Mechanobiology, Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), Faculty of Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Amiq Gazdhar
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Inselspital, University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Devina Purmessur
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Department of Orthopaedics, Spine Research Institute Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
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Definition of a Novel Plasmid-Based Gene Transfection Protocol of Mammalian Skeletal Muscles by Means of In Vivo Electroporation. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21186494. [PMID: 32899477 PMCID: PMC7555604 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21186494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2020] [Revised: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
We describe an original electroporation protocol for in vivo plasmid DNA transfection. The right hind limbs of C57 mice are exposed to a specifically designed train of permeabilizing electric pulses by transcutaneous application of tailored needle electrodes, immediately after the injection of pEGFP-C1 plasmid encoding GFP (Green Fluorescente Protein). The electroporated rodents show a greater GFP expression than the controls at three different time points (4, 10, and 15 days). The electroporated muscles display only mild interstitial myositis, with a significant increase in inflammatory cell infiltrates. Finally, mild gait abnormalities are registered in electroporated mice only in the first 48 h after the treatment. This protocol has proven to be highly efficient in terms of expression levels of the construct, is easy to apply since it does not require surgical exposure of the muscle and is well tolerated by the animals because it does not cause evident morphological and functional damage to the electroporated muscle.
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17
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Andrews CD, Huang Y, Ho DD, Liberatore RA. In vivo expressed biologics for infectious disease prophylaxis: rapid delivery of DNA-based antiviral antibodies. Emerg Microbes Infect 2020; 9:1523-1533. [PMID: 32579067 PMCID: PMC7473320 DOI: 10.1080/22221751.2020.1787108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
With increasing frequency, humans are facing outbreaks of emerging infectious diseases (EIDs) with the potential to cause significant morbidity and mortality. In the most extreme instances, such outbreaks can become pandemics, as we are now witnessing with COVID-19. According to the World Health Organization, this new disease, caused by the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, has already infected more than 10 million people worldwide and led to 499,913 deaths as of 29 June, 2020. How high these numbers will eventually go depends on many factors, including policies on travel and movement, availability of medical support, and, because there is no vaccine or highly effective treatment, the pace of biomedical research. Other than an approved antiviral drug that can be repurposed, monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) hold the most promise for providing a stopgap measure to lessen the impact of an outbreak while vaccines are in development. Technical advances in mAb identification, combined with the flexibility and clinical experience of mAbs in general, make them ideal candidates for rapid deployment. Furthermore, the development of mAb cocktails can provide a faster route to developing a robust medical intervention than searching for a single, outstanding mAb. In addition, mAbs are well-suited for integration into platform technologies for delivery, in which minimal components need to be changed in order to be redirected against a novel pathogen. In particular, utilizing the manufacturing and logistical benefits of DNA-based platform technologies in order to deliver one or more antiviral mAbs has the potential to revolutionize EID responses.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yaoxing Huang
- Aaron Diamond AIDS Research Center, New York, NY, USA.,Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicans and Surgeons, New York, NY, USA
| | - David D Ho
- Aaron Diamond AIDS Research Center, New York, NY, USA.,Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicans and Surgeons, New York, NY, USA
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18
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Induction of a local muscular dystrophy using electroporation in vivo: an easy tool for screening therapeutics. Sci Rep 2020; 10:11301. [PMID: 32647247 PMCID: PMC7347864 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-68135-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2020] [Accepted: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Intramuscular injection and electroporation of naked plasmid DNA (IMEP) has emerged as a potential alternative to viral vector injection for transgene expression into skeletal muscles. In this study, IMEP was used to express the DUX4 gene into mouse tibialis anterior muscle. DUX4 is normally expressed in germ cells and early embryo, and silenced in adult muscle cells where its pathological reactivation leads to Facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy. DUX4 encodes a potent transcription factor causing a large deregulation cascade. Its high toxicity but sporadic expression constitutes major issues for testing emerging therapeutics. The IMEP method appeared as a convenient technique to locally express DUX4 in mouse muscles. Histological analyses revealed well delineated muscle lesions 1-week after DUX4 IMEP. We have therefore developed a convenient outcome measure by quantification of the damaged muscle area using color thresholding. This method was used to characterize lesion distribution and to assess plasmid recirculation and dose–response. DUX4 expression and activity were confirmed at the mRNA and protein levels and through a quantification of target gene expression. Finally, this study gives a proof of concept of IMEP model usefulness for the rapid screening of therapeutic strategies, as demonstrated using antisense oligonucleotides against DUX4 mRNA.
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19
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Kim NY, Son WR, Choi JY, Yu CH, Hur GH, Jeong ST, Shin YK, Hong SY, Shin S. Immunogenicity and Biodistribution of Anthrax DNA Vaccine Delivered by Intradermal Electroporation. Curr Drug Deliv 2020; 17:414-421. [PMID: 32286944 DOI: 10.2174/1567201817666200414144550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2019] [Revised: 02/17/2020] [Accepted: 03/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Anthrax is a lethal bacterial disease caused by gram-positive bacterium Bacillus anthracis and vaccination is a desirable method to prevent anthrax infections. In the present study, DNA vaccine encoding a protective antigen of Bacillus anthracis was prepared and we investigated the influence of DNA electrotransfer in the skin on the induced immune response and biodistribution. METHODS AND RESULTS The tdTomato reporter gene for the whole animal in vivo imaging was used to assess gene transfer efficiency into the skin as a function of electrical parameters. Compared to that with 25 V, the transgene expression of red fluorescent protein increased significantly when a voltage of 90 V was used. Delivery of DNA vaccines expressing Bacillus anthracis protective antigen domain 4 (PAD4) with an applied voltage of 90 V induced robust PA-D4-specific antibody responses. In addition, the in vivo fate of anthrax DNA vaccine was studied after intradermal administration into the mouse. DNA plasmids remained at the skin injection site for an appropriate period of time after immunization. Intradermal administration of DNA vaccine resulted in detection in various organs (viz., lung, heart, kidney, spleen, brain, and liver), although the levels were significantly reduced. CONCLUSION Our results offer important insights into how anthrax DNA vaccine delivery by intradermal electroporation affects the immune response and biodistribution of DNA vaccine. Therefore, it may provide valuable information for the development of effective DNA vaccines against anthrax infection.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Chi Ho Yu
- The 4th R & D Institute Directorate, Agency for Defense Development, Daejon, Korea
| | - Gyeung Haeng Hur
- The 4th R & D Institute Directorate, Agency for Defense Development, Daejon, Korea
| | - Seong Tae Jeong
- The 4th R & D Institute Directorate, Agency for Defense Development, Daejon, Korea
| | - Young Kee Shin
- Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sung Youl Hong
- Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sungho Shin
- Bio-MAX/N-Bio, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
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20
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BDNF is a mediator of glycolytic fiber-type specification in mouse skeletal muscle. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2019; 116:16111-16120. [PMID: 31320589 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1900544116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) influences the differentiation, plasticity, and survival of central neurons and likewise, affects the development of the neuromuscular system. Besides its neuronal origin, BDNF is also a member of the myokine family. However, the role of skeletal muscle-derived BDNF in regulating neuromuscular physiology in vivo remains unclear. Using gain- and loss-of-function animal models, we show that muscle-specific ablation of BDNF shifts the proportion of muscle fibers from type IIB to IIX, concomitant with elevated slow muscle-type gene expression. Furthermore, BDNF deletion reduces motor end plate volume without affecting neuromuscular junction (NMJ) integrity. These morphological changes are associated with slow muscle function and a greater resistance to contraction-induced fatigue. Conversely, BDNF overexpression promotes a fast muscle-type gene program and elevates glycolytic fiber number. These findings indicate that BDNF is required for fiber-type specification and provide insights into its potential modulation as a therapeutic target in muscle diseases.
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21
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Sokołowska E, Błachnio-Zabielska AU. A Critical Review of Electroporation as A Plasmid Delivery System in Mouse Skeletal Muscle. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20112776. [PMID: 31174257 PMCID: PMC6600476 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20112776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2019] [Revised: 06/03/2019] [Accepted: 06/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The gene delivery to skeletal muscles is a promising strategy for the treatment of both muscular disorders (by silencing or overexpression of specific gene) and systemic secretion of therapeutic proteins. The use of a physical method like electroporation with plate or needle electrodes facilitates long-lasting gene silencing in situ. It has been reported that electroporation enhances the expression of the naked DNA gene in the skeletal muscle up to 100 times and decreases the changeability of the intramuscular expression. Coelectransfer of reporter genes such as green fluorescent protein (GFP), luciferase or beta-galactosidase allows the observation of correctly performed silencing in the muscles. Appropriate selection of plasmid injection volume and concentration, as well as electrotransfer parameters, such as the voltage, the length and the number of electrical pulses do not cause long-term damage to myocytes. In this review, we summarized the electroporation methodology as well as the procedure of electrotransfer to the gastrocnemius, tibialis, soleus and foot muscles and compare their advantages and disadvantages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilia Sokołowska
- Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Metabolic Disorders, Medical University of Bialystok, 15-222 Bialystok, Poland.
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22
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Reza M, Laval SH, Roos A, Carr S, Lochmüller H. Optimization of Internally Deleted Dystrophin Constructs. Hum Gene Ther Methods 2016; 27:174-186. [PMID: 27477497 DOI: 10.1089/hgtb.2016.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a severe, genetic muscle disease caused by the absence of the sarcolemmal protein dystrophin. Gene replacement therapy is considered a potential strategy for the treatment of DMD, aiming to restore the missing protein. Although the elements of the dystrophin molecule have been identified and studies in transgenic mdx mice have explored the importance of a number of these structural domains, the resulting modified dystrophin protein products that have been developed so far are only partially characterized in relation to their structure and function in vivo. To optimize a dystrophin cDNA construct for therapeutic application we designed and produced four human minidystrophins within the packaging capacity of lentiviral vectors. Two novel minidystrophins retained the centrally located neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS)-anchoring domain in order to achieve sarcolemmal nNOS restoration, which is lost in most internally deleted dystrophin constructs. Functionality of the resulting truncated dystrophin proteins was investigated in muscle of adult dystrophin-deficient mdx mice followed by a battery of detailed immunohistochemical and morphometric tests. This initial assessment aimed to determine the overall suitability of various constructs for cloning into lentiviral vectors for ex vivo gene delivery to stem cells for future preclinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mojgan Reza
- 1 John Walton Muscular Dystrophy Research Centre, MRC Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, Institute of Genetic Medicine, University of Newcastle , Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Steve H Laval
- 1 John Walton Muscular Dystrophy Research Centre, MRC Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, Institute of Genetic Medicine, University of Newcastle , Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Andreas Roos
- 1 John Walton Muscular Dystrophy Research Centre, MRC Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, Institute of Genetic Medicine, University of Newcastle , Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom .,2 Leibniz-Institut für Analytische Wissenschaften (ISAS) , Dortmund, Germany
| | - Stephanie Carr
- 1 John Walton Muscular Dystrophy Research Centre, MRC Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, Institute of Genetic Medicine, University of Newcastle , Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Hanns Lochmüller
- 1 John Walton Muscular Dystrophy Research Centre, MRC Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, Institute of Genetic Medicine, University of Newcastle , Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
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23
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Akerstrom T, Vedel K, Needham J, Hojman P, Kontou E, Hellsten Y, Wojtaszewski JF. Optimizing hyaluronidase dose and plasmid DNA delivery greatly improves gene electrotransfer efficiency in rat skeletal muscle. Biochem Biophys Rep 2015; 4:342-350. [PMID: 29124223 PMCID: PMC5669402 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrep.2015.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2015] [Revised: 10/12/2015] [Accepted: 10/20/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Transfection of rat skeletal muscle in vivo is a widely used research model. However, gene electrotransfer protocols have been developed for mice and yield variable results in rats. We investigated whether changes in hyaluronidase pre-treatment and plasmid DNA delivery can improve transfection efficiency in rat skeletal muscle. We found that pre-treating the muscle with a hyaluronidase dose suitable for rats (0.56 U/g b.w.) prior to plasmid DNA injection increased transfection efficiency by >200% whereas timing of the pre-treatment did not affect efficiency. Uniformly distributing plasmid DNA delivery across the muscle by increasing the number of plasmid DNA injections further enhanced transfection efficiency whereas increasing plasmid dose from 0.2 to 1.6 µg/g b.w. or vehicle volume had no effect. The optimized protocol resulted in ~80% (CI95%: 79–84%) transfected muscle fibers with a homogenous distribution. We also show that transfection was stable over five weeks of regular exercise or inactivity. Our findings show that species-specific plasmid DNA delivery and hyaluronidase pre-treatment greatly improves transfection efficiency in rat skeletal muscle. Parameters for effective in vivo skeletal muscle transfection are species specific. Pre-treatment with a rat-specific hyaluronidase dose greatly improves transfection efficiency. Delivering plasmid DNA more uniformly enhances transfection efficiency in rat skeletal muscle. Transfection efficiency is not improved by increasing plasmid DNA dose. Exercise training does not affect transfection stability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thorbjorn Akerstrom
- The August Krogh Centre, Section of Integrative Physiology, Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Correspondence to: The August Krogh Centre, Section of Integrative Physiology, Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 13, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark. Fax: +4535320870.The August Krogh Centre, Section of Integrative Physiology, Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of CopenhagenUniversitetsparken 13CopenhagenDK-2100Denmark
| | - Kenneth Vedel
- The August Krogh Centre, Section of Integrative Physiology, Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Josefine Needham
- The August Krogh Centre, Section of Integrative Physiology, Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Pernille Hojman
- Centre of Inflammation and Metabolism, Centre for Physical Activity Research, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Eftychia Kontou
- The August Krogh Centre, Section of Integrative Physiology, Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ylva Hellsten
- The August Krogh Centre, Section of Integrative Physiology, Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jørgen F.P. Wojtaszewski
- The August Krogh Centre, Section of Molecular Physiology, Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Kapoor M, Burgess DJ. Targeted Delivery of Nucleic Acid Therapeutics via Nonviral Vectors. ADVANCES IN DELIVERY SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-11355-5_8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
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25
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A PiggyBac-mediated approach for muscle gene transfer or cell therapy. Stem Cell Res 2014; 13:390-403. [PMID: 25310255 DOI: 10.1016/j.scr.2014.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2014] [Revised: 08/27/2014] [Accepted: 08/29/2014] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
An emerging therapeutic approach for Duchenne muscular dystrophy is the transplantation of autologous myogenic progenitor cells genetically modified to express dystrophin. The use of this approach is challenged by the difficulty in maintaining these cells ex vivo while keeping their myogenic potential, and ensuring sufficient transgene expression following their transplantation and myogenic differentiation in vivo. We investigated the use of the piggyBac transposon system to achieve stable gene expression when transferred to cultured mesoangioblasts and into murine muscles. Without selection, up to 8% of the mesoangioblasts expressed the transgene from 1 to 2 genomic copies of the piggyBac vector. Integration occurred mostly in intergenic genomic DNA and transgene expression was stable in vitro. Intramuscular transplantation of mouse Tibialis anterior muscles with mesoangioblasts containing the transposon led to sustained myofiber GFP expression in vivo. In contrast, the direct electroporation of the transposon-donor plasmids in the mouse Tibialis muscles in vivo did not lead to sustained transgene expression despite molecular evidence of piggyBac transposition in vivo. Together these findings provide a proof-of-principle that piggyBac transposon may be considered for mesoangioblast cell-based therapies of muscular dystrophies.
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26
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siRNA delivery via electropulsation: a review of the basic processes. Methods Mol Biol 2014; 1121:81-98. [PMID: 24510814 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4614-9632-8_7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/27/2023]
Abstract
Due to their capacity for inducing strong and sequence specific gene silencing in cells, small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) are now recognized not only as powerful experimental tools for basic research in Molecular biology but with promising potentials in therapeutic development. Delivery is a bottleneck in many studies. There is a common opinion that full potential of siRNA as therapeutic agent will not be attained until better methodologies for its targeted intracellular delivery to cells and tissues are developed. Electropulsation (EP) is one of the physical methods successfully used to transfer siRNA into living cells in vitro and in vivo. This review will describe how siRNA electrotransfer obeys characterized biophysical processes (cell-size-dependent electropermeabilization, electrophoretic drag) with a strong control of a low loss of viability. Protocols can be easily adjusted by a proper setting of the electrical parameters and pulsing buffers. EP can be easily directly applied on animals. Preclinical studies showed that electropermeabilization brings a direct cytoplasmic distribution of siRNA and an efficient silencing of the targeted protein expression. EP appears as a promising tool for clinical applications of gene silencing. A panel of successful trials will be given.
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27
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Kósa M, Zádor E. Transfection efficiency along the regenerating soleus muscle of the rat. Mol Biotechnol 2013; 54:220-7. [PMID: 22580850 DOI: 10.1007/s12033-012-9555-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
We investigated the efficiency of a single plasmid transfection along the longitudinal axis of the regenerating soleus of young rats. This also reflected transfection efficiency along the fibers because the soleus is a nearly fusiform muscle in young animals. The complete regeneration was induced by notexin and the transfection was made by intramuscular injection of enhanced green fluorescent protein- or Discosoma red-coding plasmids after 4 days. One week after transfection the number of transfected fibers was higher at the place of injection (i.e., in the muscle belly) and lower or absent at the ends of the muscle. The inspection of longitudinal sections and neuromuscular endplates indicated that one of the reasons of uneven transfection might be the shortness of transfected myotubes and the other reason might be the limit of diffusion of transgenic proteins from the expressing nuclei. As a result, the efficiency of transfection in the whole regenerating muscle was much lower than it could be estimated from the most successfully transfected part.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdolna Kósa
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary.
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28
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In vivo electroporation of minicircle DNA as a novel method of vaccine delivery to enhance HIV-1-specific immune responses. J Virol 2013; 88:1924-34. [PMID: 24284319 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.02757-13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
DNA vaccines offer advantage over conventional vaccines, as they are safer to use, easier to produce, and able to induce humoral as well cellular immune responses. Unfortunately, no DNA vaccines have been licensed for human use for the difficulties in developing an efficient and safe in vivo gene delivery system. In vivo electroporation (EP)-based DNA delivery has attracted great attention for its potency to enhance cellular uptake of DNA vaccines and function as an adjuvant. Minicircle DNA (a new form of DNA containing only a gene expression cassette and lacking a backbone of bacterial plasmid DNA) is a powerful candidate of gene delivery in terms of improving the levels and the duration of transgene expression in vivo. In this study, as a novel vaccine delivery system, we combined in vivo EP and the minicircle DNA carrying a codon-optimized HIV-1 gag gene (minicircle-gag) to evaluate the immunogenicity of this system. We found that minicircle-gag conferred persistent and high levels of gag expression in vitro and in vivo. The use of EP delivery further increased minicircle-based gene expression. Moreover, when delivered by EP, minicircle-gag vaccination elicited a 2- to 3-fold increase in cellular immune response and a 1.5- to 3-fold augmentation of humoral immune responses compared with those elicited by a pVAX1-gag positive control. Increased immunogenicity of EP-assisted minicircle-gag may benefit from increasing local antigen expression, upregulating inflammatory genes, and recruiting immune cells. Collectively, in vivo EP of minicircle DNA functions as a novel vaccine platform that can enhance efficacy and immunogenicity of DNA vaccines.
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Meacham JM, Durvasula K, Degertekin FL, Fedorov AG. Physical methods for intracellular delivery: practical aspects from laboratory use to industrial-scale processing. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 19:1-18. [PMID: 23813915 DOI: 10.1177/2211068213494388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Effective intracellular delivery is a significant impediment to research and therapeutic applications at all processing scales. Physical delivery methods have long demonstrated the ability to deliver cargo molecules directly to the cytoplasm or nucleus, and the mechanisms underlying the most common approaches (microinjection, electroporation, and sonoporation) have been extensively investigated. In this review, we discuss established approaches, as well as emerging techniques (magnetofection, optoinjection, and combined modalities). In addition to operating principles and implementation strategies, we address applicability and limitations of various in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo platforms. Importantly, we perform critical assessments regarding (1) treatment efficacy with diverse cell types and delivered cargo molecules, (2) suitability to different processing scales (from single cell to large populations), (3) suitability for automation/integration with existing workflows, and (4) multiplexing potential and flexibility/adaptability to enable rapid changeover between treatments of varied cell types. Existing techniques typically fall short in one or more of these criteria; however, introduction of micro-/nanotechnology concepts, as well as synergistic coupling of complementary method(s), can improve performance and applicability of a particular approach, overcoming barriers to practical implementation. For this reason, we emphasize these strategies in examining recent advances in development of delivery systems.
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Robert MA, Lin Y, Bendjelloul M, Zeng Y, Dessolin S, Broussau S, Larochelle N, Nalbantoglu J, Massie B, Gilbert R. Strength and muscle specificity of a compact promoter derived from the slow troponin I gene in the context of episomal (gutless adenovirus) and integrating (lentiviral) vectors. J Gene Med 2013; 14:746-60. [PMID: 23071006 DOI: 10.1002/jgm.2675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2012] [Revised: 08/16/2012] [Accepted: 10/12/2012] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gutless adenovirus (helper-dependent adenoviral vector; HDAd) and lentiviral vectors (LV) are attractive vectors for the gene therapy of muscle diseases. Because the organization of their DNA (episomal versus integrated) differs, we investigated whether the strength and specificity of ΔUSEx3, a novel muscle-specific promoter previously tested with plasmid, were maintained in the context of these vectors. METHODS Two HDAds expressing β-galactosidase regulated by ΔUSEx3 or CAG [cytomegalovirus (CMV) enhancer/β-actin promoter], and three LV expressing green fluorescent protein regulated by ΔUSEx3, CMV or a modified skeletal α-actin promoter (SPcΔ5-12), were constructed. Gene expression was compared in cell culture and after intravenous (HDAd only) and intramuscular injection of mice. RESULTS Irrespective of the vector used, ΔUSEx3 remained poorly active in nonmuscle cells and tissues. In myotubes, ΔUSEx3 was as strong as CMV and SPcΔ5-12, although it was ten-fold weaker than CAG, a proven powerful promoter in muscle. In cell culture, ΔUSEx3 activity in the context of LV was more stable than CMV, indicating it is less prone to silencing. In the context of HDAd, the behavior of ΔUSEx3 in skeletal muscle mirrored that of cell culture (10% of the CAG activity and half the number of transduced fibers). Surprisingly, in muscles treated with LV, ΔUSEx3 activity was five-fold lower than SPcΔ5-12. CONCLUSIONS The data obtained in the present study confirm that ΔUSEx3 is a strong and robust muscle-specific promoter in the context of HDAd (cell culture and in vivo) and LV (cell culture). However, it was less efficient in vivo in the context of LV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc-André Robert
- Biotechnology Research Institute, National Research Council Canada, Montreal, Québec, Canada. renald
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Dietz WM, Skinner NEB, Hamilton SE, Jund MD, Heitfeld SM, Litterman AJ, Hwu P, Chen ZY, Salazar AM, Ohlfest JR, Blazar BR, Pennell CA, Osborn MJ. Minicircle DNA is superior to plasmid DNA in eliciting antigen-specific CD8+ T-cell responses. Mol Ther 2013; 21:1526-35. [PMID: 23689601 DOI: 10.1038/mt.2013.85] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2012] [Accepted: 04/10/2013] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Clinical trials reveal that plasmid DNA (pDNA)-based gene delivery must be improved to realize its potential to treat human disease. Current pDNA platforms suffer from brief transgene expression, primarily due to the spread of transcriptionally repressive chromatin initially deposited on plasmid bacterial backbone sequences. Minicircle (MC) DNA lacks plasmid backbone sequences and correspondingly confers higher levels of sustained transgene expression upon delivery, accounting for its success in preclinical gene therapy models. In this study, we show for the first time that MC DNA also functions as a vaccine platform. We used a luciferase reporter transgene to demonstrate that intradermal delivery of MC DNA, relative to pDNA, resulted in significantly higher and persistent levels of luciferase expression in mouse skin. Next, we immunized mice intradermally with DNA encoding a peptide that, when presented by the appropriate major histocompatibility complex class I molecule, was recognized by endogenous CD8(+) T cells. Finally, immunization with peptide-encoding MC DNA, but not the corresponding full-length (FL) pDNA, conferred significant protection in mice challenged with Listeria monocytogenes expressing the model peptide. Together, our results suggest intradermal delivery of MC DNA may prove more efficacious for prophylaxis than traditional pDNA vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wynette M Dietz
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Center for Immunology and Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota School of Medicine, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
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Konieczny P, Swiderski K, Chamberlain JS. Gene and cell-mediated therapies for muscular dystrophy. Muscle Nerve 2013; 47:649-63. [PMID: 23553671 DOI: 10.1002/mus.23738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/23/2012] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a devastating muscle disorder that affects 1 in 3,500 boys. Despite years of research and considerable progress in understanding the molecular mechanism of the disease and advancement of therapeutic approaches, there is no cure for DMD. The current treatment options are limited to physiotherapy and corticosteroids, and although they provide a substantial improvement in affected children, they only slow the course of the disorder. On a more optimistic note, more recent approaches either significantly alleviate or eliminate muscular dystrophy in murine and canine models of DMD and importantly, many of them are being tested in early phase human clinical trials. This review summarizes advancements that have been made in viral and nonviral gene therapy as well as stem cell therapy for DMD with a focus on the replacement and repair of the affected dystrophin gene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patryk Konieczny
- Department of Neurology, The University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington 98105, USA
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Chiarella P, De Santis S, Fazio VM, Signori E. Hyaluronidase contributes to early inflammatory events induced by electrotransfer in mouse skeletal muscle. Hum Gene Ther 2013; 24:406-16. [PMID: 23360544 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2012.215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Electrotransfer of genes is one of the preferred strategies used to deliver plasmid DNA into skeletal muscle. In our experience, the combination of hyaluronidase (HYA) with electrotransfer (ET) of DNA vaccine enhances transfection of muscular fibers and increases expression of the encoded antigen. However, the contribution of HYA to the inflammatory reaction induced by ET, and its role in supporting ET adjuvancy, has never been investigated. We analyzed the events occurring in the first 2 weeks after electrotransfer to mouse muscle in the presence of HYA, to verify whether HYA contributes to the local inflammatory response induced by ET. Our results demonstrate that HYA amplifies the ET effect in terms of inflammatory cell recruitment enhancing the early release of interleukin (IL)-1β, tumor necrosis factor-α, and IL-6 cytokines. In contrast, HYA does not induce helper T cell type 1 and 2 cytokine production, confirming that the DNA vaccine is indispensable to induce mediators of antigen-specific immune responses. We observed inflammatory cell migration in the muscle treated with HYA plus ET in a time window between days 4 and 7 after cytokine induction. These observations are important in the choice of prime-boost intervals for optimizing ET-based DNA vaccination protocols. Because HYA contributes to vaccine spread and enhances the proinflammatory effect of ET in muscle we strongly support the use of HYA to potentiate DNA vaccine efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pieranna Chiarella
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology and Experimental Oncology, Institute of Translational Pharmacology, National Research Council, 00133 Rome, Italy
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Godin R, Daussin F, Matecki S, Li T, Petrof BJ, Burelle Y. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator1- gene α transfer restores mitochondrial biomass and improves mitochondrial calcium handling in post-necrotic mdx mouse skeletal muscle. J Physiol 2012; 590:5487-502. [PMID: 22907054 DOI: 10.1113/jphysiol.2012.240390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Alterations of mitochondrial function have been implicated in the pathogenesis of Duchenne muscular dystrophy. In the present study, mitochondrial respiratory function, reactive oxygen species (ROS) dynamics and susceptibility to Ca(2+)-induced permeability transition pore (PTP) opening were investigated in permeabilized skeletal muscle fibres of 6-week-old mdx mice, in order to characterize the magnitude and nature of mitochondrial dysfunction at an early post-necrotic stage of the disease. Short-term overexpression of the transcriptional co-activator PGC1α, achieved by in vivo plasmid transfection, was then performed to determine whether this intervention could prevent mitochondrial impairment and mitigate associated biochemical abnormalities. Compared with normal mice, mdx mice exhibited a lower mitochondrial biomass and oxidative capacity, greater ROS buffering capabilities, and an increased vulnerability to Ca(2+)-induced opening of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore complex. PGC1α gene transfer restored mitochondrial biomass, normalized the susceptibility to PTP opening and increased the capacity of mitochondria to buffer Ca(2+)(.) This was associated with reductions in the activity levels of the Ca(2+)-dependent protease calpain as well as caspases 3 and 9. Overall, these results suggest that overexpression of PGC1α in dystrophin-deficient muscles, after the onset of necrosis, has direct beneficial effects upon multiple aspects of mitochondrial function, which may in turn mitigate the activation of proteolytic and apoptotic signalling pathways associated with disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Godin
- Department of Kinesiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Université de Montréal, PO Box 6128, Succursalle Centre Ville, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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van Roeyen CRC, Boor P, Borkham-Kamphorst E, Rong S, Kunter U, Martin IV, Kaitovic A, Fleckenstein S, Perbal B, Trautwein C, Weiskirchen R, Ostendorf T, Floege J. A novel, dual role of CCN3 in experimental glomerulonephritis: pro-angiogenic and antimesangioproliferative effects. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2012; 180:1979-90. [PMID: 22538190 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2012.01.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2011] [Revised: 12/02/2011] [Accepted: 01/20/2012] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
In contrast to factors that promote mesangial cell proliferation, little is known about their endogenous inhibitors. During experimental mesangioproliferative nephritis, expression of the glomerular CCN3 (nephroblastoma overexpressed gene [NOV]) gene is reduced before the proliferative phase and increased in glomeruli and serum when mesangial cell proliferation subsides. To further elucidate its role in mesangioproliferative glomerulonephritis, CCN3 systemically was overexpressed by muscle electroporation in healthy or nephritic rats. This increased CCN3 serum concentrations more than threefold for up to 56 days. At day 5 after disease induction, CCN3-transfected rats showed an increase in glomerular endothelial area and in mRNA levels of the pro-angiogenic factors vascular endothelial growth factor and PDGF-C. At day 7, CCN3 overexpression decreased mesangial cell proliferation, including expression of α-smooth muscle actin and matrix accumulation of fibronectin and type IV collagen. In progressive nephritis (day 56), overexpression of CCN3 resulted in decreased albuminuria, glomerulosclerosis, and reduced cortical collagen type I accumulation. In healthy rat kidneys, overexpression of CCN3 induced no morphologic changes but regulated glomerular gene transcripts (reduced transcription of PDGF-B, PDGF-D, PDGF-receptor-β, and fibronectin, and increased PDGF-receptor-α and PDGF-C mRNA). These data identify a dual role for CCN3 in experimental glomerulonephritis with pro-angiogenic and antimesangioproliferative effects. Manipulation of CCN3 may represent a novel approach to help repair glomerular endothelial damage and mesangioproliferative changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia R C van Roeyen
- Division of Nephrology and Clinical Immunology, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany.
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Influenza A vaccines using linear expression cassettes delivered via electroporation afford full protection against challenge in a mouse model. Vaccine 2012; 30:6946-54. [PMID: 22406460 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2012.02.071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2011] [Revised: 02/24/2012] [Accepted: 02/25/2012] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Alternative DNA vaccine constructs such as fully synthetic linear expressing cassettes (LECs) offer the advantage of accelerated manufacturing techniques as well as the lack of both antibiotic resistance genes and bacterial contaminants. The speed of manufacture makes LEC technology a possible future vaccination strategy for pandemic influenza outbreaks. Previously, we reported on a novel concept of DNA delivery to dermal tissue by a minimally invasive electroporation (EP) surface device powered using low voltage parameters. This device allows electroporation without penetration of electrodes into the skin. In addition to enhancing the delivery of traditional plasmid DNA vaccines, this device may also offer a safe, tolerable and efficient method to administer LECs. To assess immunogenicity and efficacy of EP-enhanced LEC delivery in mice, we designed and tested two influenza antigens in the form of LEC constructs delivered using the newly developed surface dermal EP device. Strong CTL and antibody responses were induced by the LEC versions of the DNA vaccine. When challenged with A/Canada/AB/RV1532/2009 viruses, mice immunized with LEC encoding the M2 and NP antigens recovered faster than naïve or mice immunized ID without EP. Mice immunized with equal-molar doses of LEC encoding the M2 and NP antigens demonstrated 100% survival following a lethal (100× LD50) challenge of the heterologuos and highly pathogenic H5N1 influenza virus (A/Vietnam/1203/04). These results suggest that influenza DNA vaccines based on LEC technology combined with the surface delivery platform are capable of fully protecting mice in a lethal challenge and the LEC based DNA constructs may serve as viable vaccine candidates.
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IJIRI D, SAEGUSA A, MATSUBARA T, KANAI Y, HIRABAYASHI M. In vivo gene transfer into skeletal muscle of neonatal chicks by electroporation. Anim Sci J 2011; 83:504-9. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1740-0929.2011.00983.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Cohen M, Braun E, Tsalenchuck Y, Panet A, Steiner I. Restrictions that control herpes simplex virus type 1 infection in mouse brain ex vivo. J Gen Virol 2011; 92:2383-2393. [DOI: 10.1099/vir.0.031013-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Elucidating the cellular and molecular factors governing herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) neurotropism is a prerequisite for understanding HSV-1 encephalitis and for targeting HSV-1-derived vectors for gene transfer to the brain. Earlier we had described an ex vivo system of mouse brain slices and demonstrated a selective and unique infection pattern, mostly around the ventricles. Here, we examined tissue factors controlling HSV-1 infection of brain slices. We demonstrated that heparan sulphate, while an important factor, does not determine the infection pattern. Hyaluronic acid, but not collagen, appears to enhance HSV-1 brain infection. To investigate whether tissue distribution of viral receptors determines the infection pattern, we examined transcription of herpes virus entry mediator and nectin-1 receptor genes in infected and uninfected brain regions. Both the infected and the uninfected regions express the receptors. We also explored the influence of intra-cellular factors. HSV-1 does not preferentially infect proliferating cells in the brain slices, despite its predilection to the ventricular zones. To delineate the step at which the HSV-1 infection cascade is restricted, mRNA was isolated following tissue infection, and transcription of the immediate-early and late viral genes was evaluated. The results indicated that HSV-1 genes are not expressed in regions that do not express a viral reporter gene. Therefore, we conclude that tissue resistance to infection is associated with a block at or prior to the immediate-early mRNA synthesis. Taken together, using the ex vivo system of organotypic culture we describe here extra-cellular and intra-cellular restriction levels of HSV-1 brain infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meytal Cohen
- Department of Biochemistry, IMRIC, The Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel
- Laboratory of Neurovirology, IMRIC, The Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Efrat Braun
- Department of Biochemistry, IMRIC, The Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel
- Laboratory of Neurovirology, IMRIC, The Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Yael Tsalenchuck
- Department of Biochemistry, IMRIC, The Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel
- Laboratory of Neurovirology, IMRIC, The Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Amos Panet
- Department of Biochemistry, IMRIC, The Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Israel Steiner
- Department of Neurology, Rabin Medical Center, Campus Beilinson, Petach Tikva, Israel
- Laboratory of Neurovirology, IMRIC, The Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel
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Cemazar M, Golzio M, Sersa G, Escoffre JM, Coer A, Vidic S, Teissie J. Hyaluronidase and collagenase increase the transfection efficiency of gene electrotransfer in various murine tumors. Hum Gene Ther 2011; 23:128-37. [PMID: 21797718 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2011.073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
One of the applications of electroporation/electropulsation in biomedicine is gene electrotransfer, the wider use of which is hindered by low transfection efficiency in vivo compared with viral vectors. The aim of our study was to determine whether modulation of the extracellular matrix in solid tumors, using collagenase and hyaluronidase, could increase the transfection efficiency of gene electrotransfer in histologically different solid subcutaneous tumors in mice. Tumors were treated with enzymes before electrotransfer of plasmid DNA encoding either green fluorescent protein or luciferase. Transfection efficiency was determined 3, 9, and 15 days posttransfection. We demonstrated that pretreatment of tumors with a combination of enzymes significantly increased the transfection efficiency of electrotransfer in tumors with a high extracellular matrix area (LPB fibrosarcoma). In tumors with a smaller extracellular matrix area and less organized collagen lattice, the increase was not so pronounced (SA-1 fibrosarcoma and EAT carcinoma), whereas in B16 melanoma, in which only traces of collagen are present, pretreatment of tumors with hyaluronidase alone was more efficient than pretreatment with both enzymes. In conclusion, our results suggest that modification of the extracellular matrix could improve distribution of plasmid DNA in solid subcutaneous tumors, demonstrated by an increase in transfection efficiency, and thus have important clinical implications for electrogene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maja Cemazar
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana , SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
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Yao S, Gutierrez DL, Ring S, Liu D, Wise GE. Electroporation to deliver plasmid DNA into rat dental tissues. J Gene Med 2011; 12:981-9. [PMID: 21157822 DOI: 10.1002/jgm.1521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Delivery of DNA into the target tissues is an important technique in gene function studies and gene therapy. Surgical treatment of tooth eruption disorders, such as impacted third molars, is a major healthcare cost. Because the dental follicle (DF) is essential for regulating tooth eruption, establishment of local gene transfer protocols is needed to determine the effect of various genes on eruption and to develop gene therapy approaches for inducing the eruption of impacted molars. METHODS Plasmids containing lacZ reporter gene were injected into rat mandibles and then electroporated at the designated settings. Mandibles were collected 24 h after electroporation for X-gal staining to evaluate the transfection efficiency. Tissues were collected at various days post-electroporation to determine the expression of the transgene. RESULTS For the DF, depth of injection and pulse number appear to be important. Six pulses can achieve above 80% transfection of the DF at 50 V or 120 V. For alveolar bone (AB) transfection, voltages are important, with 120 V being optimal. Regarding pulse durations, we determined that durations of 20 and 30 ms achieve the maximum transfection in AB and DF, respectively. CONCLUSIONS The present study demonstrates for the first time the feasibility of electroporation to locally deliver plasmids into dental tissues. Parameters affecting electroporation to deliver plasmids into the dental tissues were optimized. This protocol could be used to deliver short hairpin RNA or genes of interest into the dental tissues to regulate tooth eruption. Thus, it may be possible to develop nonsurgical treatments for inducing the eruption of impacted teeth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaomian Yao
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA.
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Carnes AE, Luke JM, Vincent JM, Anderson S, Schukar A, Hodgson CP, Williams JA. Critical design criteria for minimal antibiotic-free plasmid vectors necessary to combine robust RNA Pol II and Pol III-mediated eukaryotic expression with high bacterial production yields. J Gene Med 2011; 12:818-31. [PMID: 20806425 DOI: 10.1002/jgm.1499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND For safety considerations, regulatory agencies recommend the elimination of antibiotic resistance markers and non-essential sequences from plasmid DNA-based gene medicines. In the present study, we analyzed antibiotic-free (AF) vector design criteria impacting upon bacterial production and mammalian transgene expression. METHODS Both CMV-HTLV-I R RNA Pol II promoter (protein transgene) and murine U6 RNA Pol III promoter (RNA transgene) vector designs were studied. Plasmid production yield was assessed through inducible fed-batch fermentation. RNA Pol II-directed enhanced green fluorescent protein and RNA Pol III-directed RNA expression were quantified by fluorometry and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, respectively, after transfection of human HEK293 cells. RESULTS Sucrose-selectable minimalized protein and therapeutic RNA expression vector designs that combined an RNA-based AF selection with highly productive fermentation manufacturing (>1000 mg/l plasmid DNA) and high-level in vivo expression of encoded products were identified. The AF selectable marker was also successfully applied to convert existing kanamycin-resistant DNA vaccine plasmids gWIZ and pVAX1 into AF vectors, demonstrating a general utility for retrofitting existing vectors. A minimum vector size for high yield plasmid fermentation was identified. A strategy for stable fermentation of plasmid dimers with improved vector potency and fermentation yields up to 1740 mg/l was developed. CONCLUSIONS We report the development of potent high yield AF gene medicine expression vectors for protein or RNA (e.g. short hairpin RNA or microRNA) products. These AF expression vectors were optimized to exceed a newly-identified size threshold for high copy plasmid replication and direct higher transgene expression levels than alternative vectors.
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Abstract
Methods to improve plasmid-mediated transgene expression are needed for gene medicine and gene vaccination applications. To maintain a low risk of insertional mutagenesis-mediated gene activation, expression-augmenting sequences would ideally function to improve transgene expression from transiently transfected intact plasmid, but not from spurious genomically integrated vectors. We report herein the development of potent minimal, antibiotic-free, high-manufacturing-yield mammalian expression vectors incorporating rationally designed additive combinations of expression enhancers. The SV40 72 bp enhancer incorporated upstream of the cytomegalovirus (CMV) enhancer selectively improved extrachromosomal transgene expression. The human T-lymphotropic virus type I (HTLV-I) R region, incorporated downstream of the CMV promoter, dramatically increased mRNA translation efficiency, but not overall mRNA levels, after transient transfection. A similar mRNA translation efficiency increase was observed with plasmid vectors incorporating and expressing the protein kinase R-inhibiting adenoviral viral associated (VA)1 RNA. Strikingly, HTLV-I R and VA1 did not increase transgene expression or mRNA translation efficiency from plasmid DNA after genomic integration. The vector platform, when combined with electroporation delivery, further increased transgene expression and improved HIV-1 gp120 DNA vaccine-induced neutralizing antibody titers in rabbits. These antibiotic-free vectors incorporating transient expression enhancers are safer, more potent alternatives to improve transgene expression for DNA therapy or vaccination.
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Touchard E, Kowalczuk L, Bloquel C, Naud MC, Bigey P, Behar-Cohen F. The ciliary smooth muscle electrotransfer: basic principles and potential for sustained intraocular production of therapeutic proteins. J Gene Med 2010; 12:904-19. [DOI: 10.1002/jgm.1517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
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Krammer F, Pontiller J, Tauer C, Palmberger D, Maccani A, Baumann M, Grabherr R. Evaluation of the influenza A replicon for transient expression of recombinant proteins in mammalian cells. PLoS One 2010; 5:e13265. [PMID: 20949004 PMCID: PMC2952591 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0013265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2010] [Accepted: 09/14/2010] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Recombinant protein expression in mammalian cells has become a very important technique over the last twenty years. It is mainly used for production of complex proteins for biopharmaceutical applications. Transient recombinant protein expression is a possible strategy to produce high quality material for preclinical trials within days. Viral replicon based expression systems have been established over the years and are ideal for transient protein expression. In this study we describe the evaluation of an influenza A replicon for the expression of recombinant proteins. We investigated transfection and expression levels in HEK-293 cells with EGFP and firefly luciferase as reporter proteins. Furthermore, we studied the influence of different influenza non-coding regions and temperature optima for protein expression as well. Additionally, we exploited the viral replication machinery for the expression of an antiviral protein, the human monoclonal anti-HIV-gp41 antibody 3D6. Finally we could demonstrate that the expression of a single secreted protein, an antibody light chain, by the influenza replicon, resulted in fivefold higher expression levels compared to the usually used CMV promoter based expression. We emphasize that the influenza A replicon system is feasible for high level expression of complex proteins in mammalian cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian Krammer
- Department of Biotechnology, Vienna Institute of BioTechnology, University of Natural Resources and Applied Life Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | - Jens Pontiller
- Department of Biotechnology, Vienna Institute of BioTechnology, University of Natural Resources and Applied Life Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | - Christopher Tauer
- Department of Biotechnology, Vienna Institute of BioTechnology, University of Natural Resources and Applied Life Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | - Dieter Palmberger
- Department of Biotechnology, Vienna Institute of BioTechnology, University of Natural Resources and Applied Life Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | - Andreas Maccani
- Department of Biotechnology, Vienna Institute of BioTechnology, University of Natural Resources and Applied Life Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | - Martina Baumann
- Department of Biotechnology, Vienna Institute of BioTechnology, University of Natural Resources and Applied Life Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | - Reingard Grabherr
- Department of Biotechnology, Vienna Institute of BioTechnology, University of Natural Resources and Applied Life Sciences, Vienna, Austria
- * E-mail:
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Park KS, Oh D. Gene therapy for muscular dystrophies: progress and challenges. J Clin Neurol 2010; 6:111-6. [PMID: 20944811 PMCID: PMC2950915 DOI: 10.3988/jcn.2010.6.3.111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2010] [Revised: 06/24/2010] [Accepted: 06/24/2010] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Muscular dystrophies are groups of inherited progressive diseases of the muscle caused by mutations of diverse genes related to normal muscle function. Although there is no current effective treatment for these devastating diseases, various molecular strategies have been developed to restore the expressions of the associated defective proteins. In preclinical animal models, both viral and nonviral vectors have been shown to deliver recombinant versions of defective genes. Antisense oligonucleotides have been shown to modify the splicing mechanism of mesenger ribonucleic acid to produce an internally deleted but partially functional dystrophin in an experimental model of Duchenne muscular dystrophy. In addition, chemicals can induce readthrough of the premature stop codon in nonsense mutations of the dystrophin gene. On the basis of these preclinical data, several experimental clinical trials are underway that aim to demonstrate efficacy in treating these devastating diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyung Seok Park
- Department of Neurology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seongnam, Korea
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Fernandez CA, Baumhover NJ, Duskey JT, Khargharia S, Kizzire K, Ericson MD, Rice KG. Metabolically stabilized long-circulating PEGylated polyacridine peptide polyplexes mediate hydrodynamically stimulated gene expression in liver. Gene Ther 2010; 18:23-37. [PMID: 20720577 PMCID: PMC2990782 DOI: 10.1038/gt.2010.117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
A novel class of PEGylated polyacridine peptides was developed that mediate potent stimulated gene transfer in the liver of mice. Polyacridine peptides, (Acr-X)n-Cys-PEG, possessing 2–6 repeats of Lys-acridine (Acr) spaced by either Lys, Arg, Leu or Glu, were Cys derivatized with polyethylene glycol (PEG 5000 Da) and evaluated as in vivo gene transfer agents. An optimal peptide of (Acr-Lys)6-Cys-PEG was able to bind to plasmid DNA (pGL3) with high affinity by polyintercalation, stabilize DNA from metabolism by DNAse and extend the pharmacokinetic half-life of DNA in the circulation for up to 2 hrs. A tail vein dose of PEGylated polyacridine peptide pGL3 polyplexes (1 μg in 50 μl), followed by a stimulatory hydrodynamic dose of normal saline at times ranging from 5–60 min post-DNA administration, led to a high level of luciferase expression in the liver, equivalent to levels mediated by direct hydrodynamic dosing of 1 μg of pGL3. The results establish the unique properties of PEGylated polyacridine peptides as a new and promising class of gene delivery peptides that facilitate reversible binding to plasmid DNA, protecting it from DNase in vivo resulting in an extended circulatory half-life, and release of transfection-competent DNA into the liver to mediate a high-level of gene expression upon hydrodynamic boost.
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Affiliation(s)
- C A Fernandez
- Divisions of Pharmaceutics and Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
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Durko M, Allen C, Nalbantoglu J, Karpati G. CT-GalNAc transferase overexpression in adult mice is associated with extrasynaptic utrophin in skeletal muscle fibres. J Muscle Res Cell Motil 2010; 31:181-93. [DOI: 10.1007/s10974-010-9222-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2010] [Accepted: 07/16/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Fernandez CA, Baumhover NJ, Anderson K, Rice KG. Discovery of metabolically stabilized electronegative polyacridine-PEG peptide DNA open polyplexes. Bioconjug Chem 2010; 21:723-30. [PMID: 20218669 DOI: 10.1021/bc900514s] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Cationic condensing peptides and polymers bind electrostatically to DNA to form cationic polyplexes. While many cationic polyplexes are able to achieve in vitro transfection mediated through electrostatic interactions, few have been able to mediate gene transfer in vivo. The present study describes the development and testing of polyacridine PEG-peptides that bind to plasmid DNA by intercalation resulting in electronegative open polyplex DNA. Polyacridine PEG-peptides were prepared by chemically conjugating 6-(9-acridinylamino) hexanoic acid onto side chains of Lys in PEG-Cys-Trp-(Lys)(3, 4, or 5). The resulting PEG-Cys-Trp-(Lys-(Acr))(3, 4, or 5) peptides bound tightly to DNA by polyintercalation, rather than electrostatic binding. Unlike polycationic polyplexes, polyacridine PEG-peptide polyplexes were anionic and open coiled, as revealed by zeta potential and atomic force microscopy. PEG-Cys-Trp-(Lys-(Acr))(5) showed the highest DNA binding affinity and the greatest ability to protect DNA from metabolism by DNase. Polyacridine PEG-peptide DNA open polyplexes were dosed intramuscularly and electroporated in mice to demonstrate their functional activity in gene transfer. These results establish polyacridine PEG-peptide DNA open polyplexes as a novel gene delivery method for in vivo use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian A Fernandez
- Divisions of Pharmaceutics and Medicinal & Natural Products Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa 52242, USA
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49
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Gene Transfer: How Can the Biological Barriers Be Overcome? J Membr Biol 2010; 236:61-74. [DOI: 10.1007/s00232-010-9275-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2010] [Accepted: 06/11/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Faurez F, Dory D, Le Moigne V, Gravier R, Jestin A. Biosafety of DNA vaccines: New generation of DNA vectors and current knowledge on the fate of plasmids after injection. Vaccine 2010; 28:3888-95. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2010.03.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2009] [Revised: 03/09/2010] [Accepted: 03/21/2010] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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