1
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Li S, Hu Y, Lin J, Schneiderman Z, Shao F, Wei L, Li A, Hsieh K, Kokkoli E, Curk T, Mao HQ, Wang TH. Single-Particle Spectroscopic Chromatography Reveals Heterogeneous RNA Loading and Size Correlations in Lipid Nanoparticles. ACS NANO 2024. [PMID: 38839059 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.4c02341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
Lipid nanoparticles (LNP) have emerged as pivotal delivery vehicles for RNA therapeutics. Previous research and development usually assumed that LNPs are homogeneous in population, loading density, and composition. Such perspectives are difficult to examine due to the lack of suitable tools to characterize these physicochemical properties at the single-nanoparticle level. Here, we report an integrated spectroscopy-chromatography approach as a generalizable strategy to dissect the complexities of multicomponent LNP assembly. Our platform couples cylindrical illumination confocal spectroscopy (CICS) with single-nanoparticle free solution hydrodynamic separation (SN-FSHS) to simultaneously profile population identity, hydrodynamic size, RNA loading levels, and distributions of helper lipid and PEGylated lipid of LNPs at the single-particle level and in a high-throughput manner. Using a benchmark siRNA LNP formulation, we demonstrate the capability of this platform by distinguishing seven distinct LNP populations, quantitatively characterizing size distribution and RNA loading level in wide ranges, and more importantly, resolving composition-size correlations. This SN-FSHS-CICS analysis provides critical insights into a substantial degree of heterogeneity in the packing density of RNA in LNPs and size-dependent loading-size correlations, explained by kinetics-driven assembly mechanisms of RNA LNPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sixuan Li
- Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
| | - Yizong Hu
- Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
- Translational Tissue Engineering Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
| | - Jinghan Lin
- Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
- Translational Tissue Engineering Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
| | - Zachary Schneiderman
- Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
| | - Fangchi Shao
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
| | - Lai Wei
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
| | - Andrew Li
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
| | - Kuangwen Hsieh
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
| | - Efrosini Kokkoli
- Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
| | - Tine Curk
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
| | - Hai-Quan Mao
- Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
- Translational Tissue Engineering Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
| | - Tza-Huei Wang
- Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
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2
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De Peña AC, Zimmer D, Gutterman-Johns E, Chen NM, Tripathi A, Bailey-Hytholt CM. Electrophoretic Microfluidic Characterization of mRNA- and pDNA-Loaded Lipid Nanoparticles. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:26984-26997. [PMID: 38753459 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.4c00208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) are clinically advanced nonviral gene delivery vehicles with a demonstrated ability to address viral, oncological, and genetic diseases. However, the further development of LNP therapies requires rapid analytical techniques to support their development and manufacturing. The method developed and described in this paper presents an approach to rapidly and accurately analyze LNPs for optimized therapeutic loading by utilizing an electrophoresis microfluidic platform to analyze the composition of LNPs with different clinical lipid compositions (Onpattro, Comirnaty, and Spikevax) and nucleic acid (plasmid DNA (pDNA) and messenger RNA (mRNA)) formulations. This method enables the high-throughput screening of LNPs using a 96- or 384-well plate with approximate times of 2-4 min per sample using a total volume of 11 μL. The lipid analysis requires concentrations approximately between 109 and 1010 particles/mL and has an average precision error of 10.4% and a prediction error of 19.1% when compared to using a NanoSight, while the nucleic acid analysis requires low concentrations of 1.17 ng/μL for pDNA and 0.17 ng/μL for mRNA and has an average precision error of 4.8% and a prediction error of 9.4% when compared to using a PicoGreen and RiboGreen assay. In addition, our method quantifies the relative concentration of nucleic acid per LNP. Utilizing this approach, we observed an average of 263 ± 62.2 mRNA per LNP and 126.3 ± 21.2 pDNA per LNP for the LNP formulations used in this study, where the accuracy of these estimations is dependent on reference standards. We foresee the utility of this technique in the high-throughput characterization of LNPs during manufacturing and formulation research and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Coll De Peña
- Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912, United States
| | - Daniel Zimmer
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester, Massachusetts 01609, United States
| | - Everett Gutterman-Johns
- Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, and Biochemistry, Division of Biology and Medicine, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912, United States
| | - Nicole M Chen
- Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, and Biochemistry, Division of Biology and Medicine, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912, United States
| | - Anubhav Tripathi
- Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912, United States
| | - Christina M Bailey-Hytholt
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester, Massachusetts 01609, United States
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3
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Simonsen JB. Lipid nanoparticle-based strategies for extrahepatic delivery of nucleic acid therapies - challenges and opportunities. J Control Release 2024; 370:763-772. [PMID: 38621638 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.04.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2024] [Revised: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
The advent of lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) containing ionizable cationic lipids has enabled the encapsulation, stabilization, and intracellular delivery of nucleic acid payloads, leading to FDA-approved siRNA-based therapy and mRNA-based vaccines. Other nucleic acid-based therapeutic modalities, including protein replacement and CRISPR-mediated gene knockout and editing, are being tested in clinical trials, in many cases, for the treatment of liver-related diseases. However, to fully exploit these therapies beyond the liver, improvements in their delivery to extrahepatic targets are needed. Towards this end, both active targeting strategies based on targeting ligands grafted onto LNPs and passive targeting relying on physicochemical LNP parameters such as surface composition, charge, and size are being evaluated. Often, the latter strategy depends on the interaction of LNPs with blood components, forming what is known as the biomolecular corona. Here, I discuss potential challenges related to current LNP-based targeting strategies and the studies of the biomolecular corona on LNPs. I propose potential solutions to overcome some of these obstacles and present approaches currently being tested in preclinical and clinical studies, which face fewer biological barriers than traditional organ-targeting approaches.
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4
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Nogueira SS, Samaridou E, Simon J, Frank S, Beck-Broichsitter M, Mehta A. Analytical techniques for the characterization of nanoparticles for mRNA delivery. Eur J Pharm Biopharm 2024; 198:114235. [PMID: 38401742 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2024.114235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
Nanotechnology-assisted RNA delivery has gotten a tremendous boost over the last decade and made a significant impact in the development of life-changing vaccines and therapeutics. With increasing numbers of emerging lipid- and polymer-based RNA nanoparticles progressing towards the clinic, it has become apparent that the safety and efficacy of these medications depend on the comprehensive understanding of their critical quality attributes (CQAs). However, despite the rapid advancements in the field, the identification and reliable quantification of CQAs remain a significant challenge. To support these efforts, this review aims to summarize the present knowledge on CQAs based on the regulatory guidelines and to provide insights into the available analytical characterization techniques for RNA-loaded nanoparticles. In this context, routine and emerging analytical techniques are categorized and discussed, focusing on the operation principle, strengths, and potential limitations. Furthermore, the importance of complementary and orthogonal techniques for the measurement of CQAs is discussed in order to ensure the quality and consistency of analytical methods used, and address potential technique-based differences.
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5
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Vaidya A, Parande D, Khadse N, Vargas-Montoya N, Agarwal V, Ortiz C, Ellis G, Kaushal N, Sarode A, Karve S, DeRosa F. Analytical Characterization of Heterogeneities in mRNA-Lipid Nanoparticles Using Sucrose Density Gradient Ultracentrifugation. Anal Chem 2024; 96:5570-5579. [PMID: 38529613 PMCID: PMC11007679 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.4c00031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
Rational design and robust formulation processes are critical for optimal delivery of mRNA by lipid nanoparticles (LNPs). Varying degrees of heterogeneity in mRNA-LNPs can affect their biophysical and functional properties. Given the profound complexity of mRNA-LNPs, it is critical to develop comprehensive and orthogonal analytical techniques for a better understanding of these formulations. To this end, we developed a robust ultracentrifugation method for density-based separation of subpopulations of mRNA-LNPs. Four LNP formulations encapsulating human erythropoietin (hEPO) with varying functionalities were synthesized using two ionizable lipids, A and B, and two helper lipids, 1,2-dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine (DOPE) and 1,2-dierucoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine (DEPE), along with cholesterol and DMG-PEG-2K. Upon ultracentrifugation on a sucrose gradient, a distinct pattern of "fractions" was observed across the gradient, from the less dense topmost fraction to the increasingly denser bottom fractions, which were harvested for comprehensive analyses. Parent LNPs, A-DOPE and B-DOPE, were resolved into three density-based fractions, each differing significantly in the hEPO expression following intravenous and intramuscular routes of administration. Parent B-DEPE LNPs resolved into two density-based fractions, with most of the payload and lipid content being attributed to the topmost fraction compared to the lower one, indicating some degree of heterogeneity, while parent A-DEPE LNPs showed remarkable homogeneity, as indicated by comparable in vivo potency, lipid numbers, and particle count among the three density-based fractions. This study is the first to demonstrate the application of density gradient-based ultracentrifugation (DGC) for a head-to-head comparison of heterogeneity as a function of biological performance and biophysical characteristics of parent mRNA-LNPs and their subpopulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amita Vaidya
- mRNA Center of Excellence,
Sanofi, Waltham, Massachusetts 02451, United States
| | - Dipen Parande
- mRNA Center of Excellence,
Sanofi, Waltham, Massachusetts 02451, United States
| | - Nikita Khadse
- mRNA Center of Excellence,
Sanofi, Waltham, Massachusetts 02451, United States
| | | | - Vikram Agarwal
- mRNA Center of Excellence,
Sanofi, Waltham, Massachusetts 02451, United States
| | - Christian Ortiz
- mRNA Center of Excellence,
Sanofi, Waltham, Massachusetts 02451, United States
| | - Gordon Ellis
- mRNA Center of Excellence,
Sanofi, Waltham, Massachusetts 02451, United States
| | - Neha Kaushal
- mRNA Center of Excellence,
Sanofi, Waltham, Massachusetts 02451, United States
| | - Ashish Sarode
- mRNA Center of Excellence,
Sanofi, Waltham, Massachusetts 02451, United States
| | - Shrirang Karve
- mRNA Center of Excellence,
Sanofi, Waltham, Massachusetts 02451, United States
| | - Frank DeRosa
- mRNA Center of Excellence,
Sanofi, Waltham, Massachusetts 02451, United States
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6
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Yarawsky AE, Gough ES, Zai-Rose V, Figueroa NI, Cunningham HM, Burgner JW, DeLion MT, Paul LN. BASIS: BioAnalysis SEDFIT integrated software for cGMP analysis of SV-AUC data. EUROPEAN BIOPHYSICS JOURNAL : EBJ 2024; 53:111-121. [PMID: 38329496 DOI: 10.1007/s00249-024-01700-4] [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: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
Sedimentation velocity analytical ultracentrifugation (SV-AUC) has long been an important method for characterization of antibody therapeutics. Recently, SV-AUC has experienced a wave of new interest and usage from the gene and cell therapy industry, where SV-AUC has proven itself to be the "gold standard" analytical approach for determining capsid loading ratios for adeno-associated virus (AAV) and other viral vectors. While other more common approaches have existed in the realm of cGMP-compliant techniques for years, SV-AUC has long been used strictly for characterization, but not for release testing. This manuscript describes the challenges faced in bringing SV-AUC to a cGMP environment and describes a new program, "BASIS", which allows for 21 CFR Part 11-compliant data handling and data analysis using the well-known and frequently cited SEDFIT analysis software.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Erik S Gough
- BioAnalysis, LLC, 3401 I Street Suite 206, Philadelphia, PA, 19134, USA
| | - Valeria Zai-Rose
- BioAnalysis, LLC, 3401 I Street Suite 206, Philadelphia, PA, 19134, USA
| | | | | | - John W Burgner
- BioAnalysis, LLC, 3401 I Street Suite 206, Philadelphia, PA, 19134, USA
| | - Michael T DeLion
- BioAnalysis, LLC, 3401 I Street Suite 206, Philadelphia, PA, 19134, USA
| | - Lake N Paul
- BioAnalysis, LLC, 3401 I Street Suite 206, Philadelphia, PA, 19134, USA.
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7
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Witten J, Hu Y, Langer R, Anderson DG. Recent advances in nanoparticulate RNA delivery systems. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2307798120. [PMID: 38437569 PMCID: PMC10945842 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2307798120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Nanoparticle-based RNA delivery has shown great progress in recent years with the approval of two mRNA vaccines for Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and a liver-targeted siRNA therapy. Here, we discuss the preclinical and clinical advancement of new generations of RNA delivery therapies along multiple axes. Improvements in cargo design such as RNA circularization and data-driven untranslated region optimization can drive better mRNA expression. New materials discovery research has driven improved delivery to extrahepatic targets such as the lung and splenic immune cells, which could lead to pulmonary gene therapy and better cancer vaccines, respectively. Other organs and even specific cell types can be targeted for delivery via conjugation of small molecule ligands, antibodies, or peptides to RNA delivery nanoparticles. Moreover, the immune response to any RNA delivery nanoparticle plays a crucial role in determining efficacy. Targeting increased immunogenicity without induction of reactogenic side effects is crucial for vaccines, while minimization of immune response is important for gene therapies. New developments have addressed each of these priorities. Last, we discuss the range of RNA delivery clinical trials targeting diverse organs, cell types, and diseases and suggest some key advances that may play a role in the next wave of therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob Witten
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA02139
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA02139
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA02139
| | - Yizong Hu
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA02139
| | - Robert Langer
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA02139
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA02139
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA02139
- Harvard and Massachusetts Institute of Technology Division of Health Science and Technology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA02139
- Department of Anesthesiology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA02115
- Institute for Medical Engineering and Science, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA02139
| | - Daniel G. Anderson
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA02139
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA02139
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA02139
- Harvard and Massachusetts Institute of Technology Division of Health Science and Technology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA02139
- Department of Anesthesiology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA02115
- Institute for Medical Engineering and Science, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA02139
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8
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Parot J, Mehn D, Jankevics H, Markova N, Carboni M, Olaisen C, Hoel AD, Sigfúsdóttir MS, Meier F, Drexel R, Vella G, McDonagh B, Hansen T, Bui H, Klinkenberg G, Visnes T, Gioria S, Urban-Lopez P, Prina-Mello A, Borgos SE, Caputo F, Calzolai L. Quality assessment of LNP-RNA therapeutics with orthogonal analytical techniques. J Control Release 2024; 367:385-401. [PMID: 38253203 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.01.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
The availability of analytical methods for the characterization of lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) for in-vivo intracellular delivery of nucleic acids is critical for the fast development of innovative RNA therapies. In this study, analytical protocols to measure (i) chemical composition, (ii) drug loading, (iii) particle size, concentration, and stability as well as (iv) structure and morphology were evaluated and compared based on a comprehensive characterization strategy linking key physical and chemical properties to in-vitro efficacy and toxicity. Furthermore, the measurement protocols were assessed either by testing the reproducibility and robustness of the same technique in different laboratories, or by a correlative approach, comparing measurement results of the same attribute with orthogonal techniques. The characterization strategy and the analytical measurements described here will have an important role during formulation development and in determining robust quality attributes ultimately supporting the quality assessment of these innovative RNA therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremie Parot
- Department of Biotechnology and Nanomedicine, SINTEF Industry, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Dora Mehn
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), Ispra, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Camilla Olaisen
- Department of Biotechnology and Nanomedicine, SINTEF Industry, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Andrea D Hoel
- Department of Biotechnology and Nanomedicine, SINTEF Industry, Trondheim, Norway
| | | | | | | | - Gabriele Vella
- Laboratory for Biological Characterisation of Advanced Materials (LBCAM), Trinity College Dublin, Ireland
| | - Birgitte McDonagh
- Department of Biotechnology and Nanomedicine, SINTEF Industry, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Terkel Hansen
- Department of Biotechnology and Nanomedicine, SINTEF Industry, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Huong Bui
- Department of Biotechnology and Nanomedicine, SINTEF Industry, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Geir Klinkenberg
- Department of Biotechnology and Nanomedicine, SINTEF Industry, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Torkild Visnes
- Department of Biotechnology and Nanomedicine, SINTEF Industry, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Sabrina Gioria
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), Ispra, Italy
| | | | - Adriele Prina-Mello
- Laboratory for Biological Characterisation of Advanced Materials (LBCAM), Trinity College Dublin, Ireland
| | - Sven Even Borgos
- Department of Biotechnology and Nanomedicine, SINTEF Industry, Trondheim, Norway.
| | - Fanny Caputo
- Department of Biotechnology and Nanomedicine, SINTEF Industry, Trondheim, Norway; LNE - Centre for Scientific and Industrial Metrology, Trappes, France.
| | - Luigi Calzolai
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), Ispra, Italy.
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9
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Demeler B. Methods for the Design and Analysis of Analytical Ultracentrifugation Experiments. Curr Protoc 2024; 4:e974. [PMID: 38319042 PMCID: PMC10857736 DOI: 10.1002/cpz1.974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Analytical ultracentrifugation experiments play an integral role in the solution-phase characterization of biological macromolecules and their interactions. This unit discusses the design of sedimentation velocity and sedimentation equilibrium experiments performed with a Beckman Proteomelab XL-A or XL-I analytical ultracentrifuge and with a Beckman Optima AUC. Instrument settings and experimental design considerations are explained, and strategies for the analysis of experimental data with the UltraScan data analysis software package are presented. Special attention is paid to the strengths and weaknesses of the available detectors, and guidance is provided on how to extract maximum information from analytical ultracentrifugation experiments. © 2024 The Authors. Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Borries Demeler
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Montana, Missoula, Montana
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10
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Fletcher RB, Stokes LD, Kelly IB, Henderson KM, Vallecillo-Viejo IC, Colazo JM, Wong BV, Yu F, d'Arcy R, Struthers MN, Evans BC, Ayers J, Castanon M, Weirich MJ, Reilly SK, Patel SS, Ivanova YI, Silvera Batista CA, Weiss SM, Gersbach CA, Brunger JM, Duvall CL. Nonviral In Vivo Delivery of CRISPR-Cas9 Using Protein-Agnostic, High-Loading Porous Silicon and Polymer Nanoparticles. ACS NANO 2023; 17:16412-16431. [PMID: 37582231 PMCID: PMC11129837 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.2c12261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/17/2023]
Abstract
The complexity of CRISPR machinery is a challenge to its application for nonviral in vivo therapeutic gene editing. Here, we demonstrate that proteins, regardless of size or charge, efficiently load into porous silicon nanoparticles (PSiNPs). Optimizing the loading strategy yields formulations that are ultrahigh loading─>40% cargo by volume─and highly active. Further tuning of a polymeric coating on the loaded PSiNPs yields nanocomposites that achieve colloidal stability under cryopreservation, endosome escape, and gene editing efficiencies twice that of the commercial standard Lipofectamine CRISPRMAX. In a mouse model of arthritis, PSiNPs edit cells in both the cartilage and synovium of knee joints, and achieve 60% reduction in expression of the therapeutically relevant MMP13 gene. Administered intramuscularly, they are active over a broad dose range, with the highest tested dose yielding nearly 100% muscle fiber editing at the injection site. The nanocomposite PSiNPs are also amenable to systemic delivery. Administered intravenously in a model that mimics muscular dystrophy, they edit sites of inflamed muscle. Collectively, the results demonstrate that the PSiNP nanocomposites are a versatile system that can achieve high loading of diverse cargoes and can be applied for gene editing in both local and systemic delivery applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Brock Fletcher
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37235-1631, United States
| | - Larry D Stokes
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37235-1631, United States
| | - Isom B Kelly
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37235-1631, United States
| | - Katelyn M Henderson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37235-1631, United States
| | - Isabel C Vallecillo-Viejo
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37235-1631, United States
| | - Juan M Colazo
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37235-1631, United States
| | - Benjamin V Wong
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37235-1631, United States
| | - Fang Yu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37235-1631, United States
| | - Richard d'Arcy
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37235-1631, United States
| | - Morgan N Struthers
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37235-1631, United States
| | - Brian C Evans
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37235-1631, United States
| | - Jacob Ayers
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37235-1631, United States
| | - Matthew Castanon
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37235-1631, United States
| | - Michael J Weirich
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37235-1631, United States
| | - Sarah K Reilly
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37235-1631, United States
| | - Shrusti S Patel
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37235-1631, United States
| | - Yoanna I Ivanova
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37235-1631, United States
| | - Carlos A Silvera Batista
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37235-1631, United States
| | - Sharon M Weiss
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37235-1631, United States
| | - Charles A Gersbach
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States
| | - Jonathan M Brunger
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37235-1631, United States
| | - Craig L Duvall
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37235-1631, United States
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11
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Liang Y, Zhang J, Xu C, Wang J, Han W, Yang J, Wu S, An J, Liu J, Zhang Z, Shi J, Zhang K. Biomimetic Mineralized CRISPR/Cas RNA Nanoparticles for Efficient Tumor-Specific Multiplex Gene Editing. ACS NANO 2023; 17:15025-15043. [PMID: 37481734 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c04116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
CRISPR/Cas9 systems have great potential to achieve sophisticated gene therapy and cell engineering by editing multiple genomic loci. However, to achieve efficient multiplex gene editing, the delivery system needs adequate capacity to transfect all CRISPR/Cas9 RNA species at the required stoichiometry into the cytosol of each individual cell. Herein, inspired by biomineralization in nature, we develop an all-in-one biomimetic mineralized CRISPR/Cas9 RNA delivery system. This system allows for precise control over the coencapsulation ratio between Cas9 mRNA and multiple sgRNAs, while also exhibiting a high RNA loading capacity. In addition, it enhances the storage stability of RNA at 4 °C for up to one month, and the surface of the nanoparticles can be easily functionalized for precise targeting of RNA nanoparticles in vivo at nonliver sites. Based on the above characteristics, as a proof-of-concept, our system was able to achieve significant gene-editing at each target gene (Survivin: 31.9%, PLK1: 24.41%, HPV: 23.2%) and promote apoptosis of HeLa cells in the mouse model, inhibiting tumor growth without obvious off-target effects in liver tissue. This system addresses various challenges associated with multicomponent RNA delivery in vivo, providing an innovative strategy for the RNA-based CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Liang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases Collaborative Innovation Center of New Drug Research and Safety Evaluation, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, P. R. China
| | - Jingge Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases Collaborative Innovation Center of New Drug Research and Safety Evaluation, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, P. R. China
| | - Chenlu Xu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases Collaborative Innovation Center of New Drug Research and Safety Evaluation, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, P. R. China
| | - Jinjin Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases Collaborative Innovation Center of New Drug Research and Safety Evaluation, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, P. R. China
| | - Wenshuai Han
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases Collaborative Innovation Center of New Drug Research and Safety Evaluation, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, P. R. China
| | - Jiali Yang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases Collaborative Innovation Center of New Drug Research and Safety Evaluation, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, P. R. China
| | - Sixuan Wu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases Collaborative Innovation Center of New Drug Research and Safety Evaluation, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, P. R. China
| | - Jingyi An
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases Collaborative Innovation Center of New Drug Research and Safety Evaluation, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, P. R. China
| | - Junjie Liu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases Collaborative Innovation Center of New Drug Research and Safety Evaluation, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, P. R. China
| | - Zhenzhong Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases Collaborative Innovation Center of New Drug Research and Safety Evaluation, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, P. R. China
| | - Jinjin Shi
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases Collaborative Innovation Center of New Drug Research and Safety Evaluation, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, P. R. China
| | - Kaixiang Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases Collaborative Innovation Center of New Drug Research and Safety Evaluation, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, P. R. China
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12
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Bepperling A, Best J. Comparison of three AUC techniques for the determination of the loading status and capsid titer of AAVs. EUROPEAN BIOPHYSICS JOURNAL : EBJ 2023; 52:401-413. [PMID: 37245172 DOI: 10.1007/s00249-023-01661-0] [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: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Due to the rise of adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) as gene therapy delivery vectors, boundary sedimentation velocity analytical ultracentrifugation (boundary SV-AUC) has been developed into a widely used quality control assay even for release analytics. It can be considered as the "gold standard" for the determination of the loading status of empty, partially filled, and full capsids especially when conducted in multiwavelength (MWL) mode. It can be considered to provide the most accurate determination of the loading status, and it also provides information on the capsid titer, aggregates, and potential contaminants such as free DNA. MWL boundary SV-AUC can be regarded as a multi-attribute (MAM) method for the characterization of AAVs. One major drawback of the method is the high sample consumption both in terms of concentration and volume. Here, we compare two alternative AUC techniques, band SV-AUC and analytical CsCl density gradient sedimentation equilibrium AUC (CsCl SE-AUC) with the boundary SV-AUC and the MWL-SV-AUC experiment. Our data show a high consistency of the determined full/empty ratios between these techniques if the appropriate wavelengths and extinction coefficients are used.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Janine Best
- Novartis TRD, Keltenring 1+3, 82041, Oberhaching, Germany
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13
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Bepperling A, Richter G. Determination of mRNA copy number in degradable lipid nanoparticles via density contrast analytical ultracentrifugation. EUROPEAN BIOPHYSICS JOURNAL : EBJ 2023; 52:393-400. [PMID: 37289289 PMCID: PMC10248324 DOI: 10.1007/s00249-023-01663-y] [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: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Lipid nanoparticles as delivery system for mRNA have recently attracted attention to a broader audience as COVID-19 mRNA vaccines. Their low immunogenicity and capability to deliver a variety of nucleic acids renders them an interesting and complementary alternative to gene therapy vectors like AAVs. An important quality attribute of LNPs is the copy number of the encapsulated cargo molecule. This work describes how density and molecular weight distributions obtained by density contrast sedimentation velocity can be used to calculate the mRNA copy number of a degradable lipid nanoparticle formulation. The determined average copy number of 5 mRNA molecules per LNP is consistent with the previous studies using other biophysical techniques, such as single particle imaging microscopy and multi-laser cylindrical illumination confocal spectroscopy (CICS).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gesa Richter
- Novartis TRD, Keltenring 1+3, 82041, Oberhaching, Germany
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14
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Wawra S, Kessler S, Egel A, Solzin J, Burkert O, Hochdorfer D. Hydrodynamic characterization of a vesicular stomatitis virus-based oncolytic virus using analytical ultracentrifugation. EUROPEAN BIOPHYSICS JOURNAL : EBJ 2023; 52:379-386. [PMID: 37133524 PMCID: PMC10444643 DOI: 10.1007/s00249-023-01649-w] [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: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Determination of the size, density, and mass of viral particles can provide valuable information to support process and formulation studies in clinical development. Analytical ultracentrifugation (AUC), as a first principal method, has been shown to be a beneficial tool for the characterization of the non-enveloped adeno associated virus (AAV). Here, we demonstrate the suitability of AUC for the challenging characterization of a representative for enveloped viruses, which usually are expected to exhibit higher dispersity than non-enveloped viruses. Specifically, the vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV)-based oncolytic virus VSV-GP was used to evaluate potential occurrence of non-ideal sedimentation by testing different rotor speeds and loading concentrations. The partial specific volume was determined via density gradients and density contrast experiments. Additionally, nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA) was used to determine the hydrodynamic diameter of VSV-GP particles to calculate their molecular weight via the Svedberg equation. Overall, this study demonstrates the applicability of AUC and NTA for the characterization of size, density, and molar mass of an enveloped virus, namely VSV-GP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Wawra
- Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Innovation Unit, Analytical Development Biologicals, Biberach, Germany.
| | - Sophia Kessler
- Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Innovation Unit, Viral Therapeutics Center, Biberach, Germany
| | - Arina Egel
- Boehringer Ingelheim Therapeutics GmbH, Innovation Unit, Viral Therapeutics Center, Ochsenhausen, Germany
| | - Johannes Solzin
- Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Innovation Unit, Viral Therapeutics Center, Biberach, Germany
| | - Oliver Burkert
- Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Innovation Unit, Analytical Development Biologicals, Biberach, Germany
| | - Daniel Hochdorfer
- Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Innovation Unit, Viral Therapeutics Center, Biberach, Germany
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15
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SV-AUC as a stability-indicating method for the characterization of mRNA-LNPs. Eur J Pharm Biopharm 2023; 182:152-156. [PMID: 36410586 PMCID: PMC9678208 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2022.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
During the SARS-CoV2 pandemic mRNA vaccines in the form of lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) containing the mRNA, have set the stage for a new area of vaccines. Analytical methods to quantify changes in size and structure of LNPs are crucial, as changes in these parameters could have implications for potency. We investigated the application of sedimentation velocity analytical ultracentrifugation (SV-AUC) as quantitative stability-indicating method to detect structural changes of mRNA-LNP vaccines upon relevant stress factors (freeze/thaw, heat and mechanical stress), in comparison to qualitative dynamic light scattering (DLS) analysis. DLS was capable to qualitatively determine size and homogeneity of mRNA-LNPs with sufficient precision. Stress factors, in particular freeze/thaw and mechanical stress, led to increased particle size and content of larger species in DLS and SV-AUC. Changes upon heat stress at 50 °C were only detected as increased flotation rates by SV-AUC. In addition, SV-AUC was able to observe changes in particle density, which cannot be detected by DLS. In conclusion, SV-AUC can be used as a highly valuable quantitative stability-indicating method for characterization of LNPs.
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16
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Li Z, Zhang XQ, Ho W, Li F, Gao M, Bai X, Xu X. Enzyme-Catalyzed One-Step Synthesis of Ionizable Cationic Lipids for Lipid Nanoparticle-Based mRNA COVID-19 Vaccines. ACS NANO 2022; 16:18936-18950. [PMID: 36269150 PMCID: PMC9589590 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.2c07822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Ionizable cationic lipid-containing lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) are the most clinically advanced non-viral gene delivery platforms, holding great potential for gene therapeutics. This is exemplified by the two COVID-19 vaccines employing mRNA-LNP technology from Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna. Herein, we develop a chemical library of ionizable cationic lipids through a one-step chemical-biological enzyme-catalyzed esterification method, and the synthesized ionizable lipids were further prepared to be LNPs for mRNA delivery. Through orthogonal design of experiment methodology screening, the top-performing AA3-DLin LNPs show outstanding mRNA delivery efficacy and long-term storage capability. Furthermore, the AA3-DLin LNP COVID-19 vaccines encapsulating SARS-CoV-2 spike mRNAs successfully induced strong immunogenicity in a BALB/c mouse model demonstrated by the antibody titers, virus challenge, and T cell immune response studies. The developed AA3-DLin LNPs are an excellent mRNA delivery platform, and this study provides an overall perspective of the ionizable cationic lipids, from aspects of lipid design, synthesis, screening, optimization, fabrication, characterization, and application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongyu Li
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering,
New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, New Jersey07102,
United States
| | - Xue-Qing Zhang
- Engineering Research Center of Cell & Therapeutic
Antibody Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong
University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai200240, P. R.
China
| | - William Ho
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering,
New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, New Jersey07102,
United States
| | - Fengqiao Li
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering,
New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, New Jersey07102,
United States
| | - Mingzhu Gao
- Engineering Research Center of Cell & Therapeutic
Antibody Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong
University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai200240, P. R.
China
| | - Xin Bai
- Engineering Research Center of Cell & Therapeutic
Antibody Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong
University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai200240, P. R.
China
| | - Xiaoyang Xu
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering,
New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, New Jersey07102,
United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, New
Jersey Institute of Technology, 323 Dr Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Newark,
New Jersey07102, United States
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17
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Li S, Hu Y, Li A, Lin J, Hsieh K, Schneiderman Z, Zhang P, Zhu Y, Qiu C, Kokkoli E, Wang TH, Mao HQ. Payload distribution and capacity of mRNA lipid nanoparticles. Nat Commun 2022; 13:5561. [PMID: 36151112 PMCID: PMC9508184 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-33157-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) are effective vehicles to deliver mRNA vaccines and therapeutics. It has been challenging to assess mRNA packaging characteristics in LNPs, including payload distribution and capacity, which are critical to understanding structure-property-function relationships for further carrier development. Here, we report a method based on the multi-laser cylindrical illumination confocal spectroscopy (CICS) technique to examine mRNA and lipid contents in LNP formulations at the single-nanoparticle level. By differentiating unencapsulated mRNAs, empty LNPs and mRNA-loaded LNPs via coincidence analysis of fluorescent tags on different LNP components, and quantitatively resolving single-mRNA fluorescence, we reveal that a commonly referenced benchmark formulation using DLin-MC3 as the ionizable lipid contains mostly 2 mRNAs per loaded LNP with a presence of 40%–80% empty LNPs depending on the assembly conditions. Systematic analysis of different formulations with control variables reveals a kinetically controlled assembly mechanism that governs the payload distribution and capacity in LNPs. These results form the foundation for a holistic understanding of the molecular assembly of mRNA LNPs. Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) are effective vehicles to deliver mRNA vaccines and therapeutics but assessing the mRNA packaging characteristics in LNPs is challenging. Here, the authors report that mRNA and lipid contents in LNP formulations can be quantitatively examined by multi-laser cylindrical illumination confocal spectroscopy at the single-nanoparticle level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sixuan Li
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Yizong Hu
- Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA. .,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA. .,Translational Tissue Engineering Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Andrew Li
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jinghan Lin
- Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Kuangwen Hsieh
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Zachary Schneiderman
- Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Pengfei Zhang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Yining Zhu
- Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Translational Tissue Engineering Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Chenhu Qiu
- Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Efrosini Kokkoli
- Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Tza-Huei Wang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA. .,Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA. .,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Hai-Quan Mao
- Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA. .,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA. .,Translational Tissue Engineering Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA. .,Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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18
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Particles in Biopharmaceutical Formulations, Part 2: An Update on Analytical Techniques and Applications for Therapeutic Proteins, Viruses, Vaccines and Cells. J Pharm Sci 2021; 111:933-950. [PMID: 34919969 DOI: 10.1016/j.xphs.2021.12.011] [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: 12/07/2021] [Revised: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Particles in biopharmaceutical formulations remain a hot topic in drug product development. With new product classes emerging it is crucial to discriminate particulate active pharmaceutical ingredients from particulate impurities. Technical improvements, new analytical developments and emerging tools (e.g., machine learning tools) increase the amount of information generated for particles. For a proper interpretation and judgment of the generated data a thorough understanding of the measurement principle, suitable application fields and potential limitations and pitfalls is required. Our review provides a comprehensive overview of novel particle analysis techniques emerging in the last decade for particulate impurities in therapeutic protein formulations (protein-related, excipient-related and primary packaging material-related), as well as particulate biopharmaceutical formulations (virus particles, virus-like particles, lipid nanoparticles and cell-based medicinal products). In addition, we review the literature on applications, describe specific analytical approaches and illustrate advantages and drawbacks of currently available techniques for particulate biopharmaceutical formulations.
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19
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Valderrama OJ, Nischang I. Reincarnation of the Analytical Ultracentrifuge: Emerging Opportunities for Nanomedicine. Anal Chem 2021; 93:15805-15815. [PMID: 34806364 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.1c03116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The analytical ultracentrifuge (AUC) and the modern field of analytical ultracentrifugation found its inception approximately a century ago. We highlight the scope of its major experimental opportunities as a transport-based method, contemporary and up-and-coming investigation potential for polymers, polymer-drug conjugates, polymer assemblies, as well as medical nanoparticles. Special focus lies on molar mass estimates of unimeric polymeric species, self-assemblies in solution, and (co)localization of multicomponent systems in solution alongside the material-biofluid interactions. We close with present challenges and incentives for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olenka Jibaja Valderrama
- Laboratory of Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry (IOMC), Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Humboldtstrasse 10, 07743 Jena, Germany.,Jena Center for Soft Matter, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Philosophenweg 7, 07743 Jena, Germany
| | - Ivo Nischang
- Laboratory of Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry (IOMC), Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Humboldtstrasse 10, 07743 Jena, Germany.,Jena Center for Soft Matter, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Philosophenweg 7, 07743 Jena, Germany
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20
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Berkowitz SA, Laue T. Boundary convection during velocity sedimentation in the Optima analytical ultracentrifuge. Anal Biochem 2021; 631:114306. [PMID: 34274312 DOI: 10.1016/j.ab.2021.114306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2021] [Revised: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Analytical ultracentrifugation (AUC) provides the most widely applicable, precise, and accurate means for characterizing solution hydrodynamic and thermodynamic properties. While generally useful, boundary sedimentation velocity AUC (SV-AUC) analysis has become particularly important in assessing protein aggregation, fragmentation and conformational variants in the same solvents used during drug development and production. In early 2017 the only manufacturer of the analytical ultracentrifuge released its newest analytical ultracentrifuge, the Optima, to replace the aging second-generation XLA/I series ultracentrifuges. However, SV-AUC data from four Optima units used in the characterization of adeno-associated virus (AAV) have shown evidence of sample convection. Further investigation reveals this problem arises from the design of the temperature control system, which makes it prone to producing destabilizing temperature-induced density gradients that can lead to density inversions. The problem is intermittent and variable in severity within a given Optima unit and between Optima units. This convection appears to be associated mainly with low rotor speeds and dilute concentration of solvent components, i.e., AAV analysis conditions. Data features diagnostic for this problem and strategies for its elimination or minimization are provided.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Thomas Laue
- Emeritus, University of New Hampshire, 10 Kelsey Road, Lee, NH, 03861, USA
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21
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Kulkarni JA, Witzigmann D, Thomson SB, Chen S, Leavitt BR, Cullis PR, van der Meel R. The current landscape of nucleic acid therapeutics. NATURE NANOTECHNOLOGY 2021; 16:630-643. [PMID: 34059811 DOI: 10.1038/s41565-021-00898-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 500] [Impact Index Per Article: 166.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
The increasing number of approved nucleic acid therapeutics demonstrates the potential to treat diseases by targeting their genetic blueprints in vivo. Conventional treatments generally induce therapeutic effects that are transient because they target proteins rather than underlying causes. In contrast, nucleic acid therapeutics can achieve long-lasting or even curative effects via gene inhibition, addition, replacement or editing. Their clinical translation, however, depends on delivery technologies that improve stability, facilitate internalization and increase target affinity. Here, we review four platform technologies that have enabled the clinical translation of nucleic acid therapeutics: antisense oligonucleotides, ligand-modified small interfering RNA conjugates, lipid nanoparticles and adeno-associated virus vectors. For each platform, we discuss the current state-of-the-art clinical approaches, explain the rationale behind its development, highlight technological aspects that facilitated clinical translation and provide an example of a clinically relevant genetic drug. In addition, we discuss how these technologies enable the development of cutting-edge genetic drugs, such as tissue-specific nucleic acid bioconjugates, messenger RNA and gene-editing therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jayesh A Kulkarni
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics, Department of Medical Genetics, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- NanoMedicines Innovation Network, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- NanoVation Therapeutics, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Dominik Witzigmann
- NanoMedicines Innovation Network, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- NanoVation Therapeutics, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Sarah B Thomson
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics, Department of Medical Genetics, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Sam Chen
- Integrated Nanotherapeutics, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Blair R Leavitt
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics, Department of Medical Genetics, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Pieter R Cullis
- NanoMedicines Innovation Network, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Roy van der Meel
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, The Netherlands.
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