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Xu X, Han N, Zhao F, Fan R, Guo Q, Han X, Liu Y, Luo G. Inefficacy of anti-VEGF therapy reflected in VEGF-mediated photoreceptor degeneration. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2024; 35:102176. [PMID: 38689803 PMCID: PMC11059333 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2024.102176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Retinal neovascularization (RNV) is primarily driven by vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). However, current anti-VEGF therapies are limited by short half-lives and repeated injections, which reduce patient quality of life and increase medical risks. Additionally, not all patients benefit from anti-VEGF monotherapy, and some problems, such as unsatisfactory vision recovery, persist after long-term treatment. In this study, we constructed a recombinant adeno-associated virus (AAV), AAV2-SPLTH, which encodes an anti-VEGF antibody similar to bevacizumab, and assessed its effects in a doxycycline-induced Tet-opsin-VEGFA mouse model of RNV. AAV2-SPLTH effectively inhibited retinal leakage, RNV progression, and photoreceptor apoptosis in a Tet-opsin-VEGF mouse model. However, proteomic sequencing showed that AAV2-SPLTH failed to rescue the expression of phototransduction-related genes, which corresponded to reduced photoreceptor cell numbers. This study suggests that anti-VEGF monotherapy can significantly inhibit RNV to some extent but may not be enough to save visual function in the long term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Xu
- Institute of Health Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
| | - Ni Han
- Institute of Health Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
| | - Fangkun Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110005, China
| | - Ruoyue Fan
- Bionce Biotechnology, Co., Ltd, Nanjing 210061, China
| | - Qingguo Guo
- Institute of Health Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
| | - Xuefei Han
- Bionce Biotechnology, Co., Ltd, Nanjing 210061, China
| | - Ying Liu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
| | - Guangzuo Luo
- Institute of Health Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
- Bionce Biotechnology, Co., Ltd, Nanjing 210061, China
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2
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Kumbhar P, Kolekar K, Vishwas S, Shetti P, Kumbar V, Andreoli Pinto TDJ, Paiva-Santos AC, Veiga F, Gupta G, Singh SK, Dua K, Disouza J, Patravale V. Treatment avenues for age-related macular degeneration: Breakthroughs and bottlenecks. Ageing Res Rev 2024; 98:102322. [PMID: 38723753 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2024.102322] [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: 08/27/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024]
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a significant factor contributing to serious vision loss in adults above 50. The presence of posterior segment barriers serves as chief roadblocks in the delivery of drugs to treat AMD. The conventional treatment strategies use is limited due to its off-targeted distribution in the eye, shorter drug residence, poor penetration and bioavailability, fatal side effects, etc. The above-mentioned downside necessitates drug delivery using some cutting-edge technology including diverse nanoparticulate systems and microneedles (MNs) which provide the best therapeutic delivery alternative to treat AMD efficiently. Furthermore, cutting-edge treatment modalities including gene therapy and stem cell therapy can control AMD effectively by reducing the boundaries of conventional therapies with a single dose. This review discusses AMD overview, conventional therapies for AMD and their restrictions, repurposed therapeutics and their anti-AMD activity through different mechanisms, and diverse barriers in drug delivery for AMD. Various nanoparticulate-based approaches including polymeric NPs, lipidic NPs, exosomes, active targeted NPs, stimuli-sensitive NPs, cell membrane-coated NPs, inorganic NPs, and MNs are explained. Gene therapy, stem cell therapy, and therapies in clinical trials to treat AMD are also discussed. Further, bottlenecks of cutting-edge (nanoparticulate) technology-based drug delivery are briefed. In a nutshell, cutting-edge technology-based therapies can be an effective way to treat AMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Popat Kumbhar
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Tatyasaheb Kore College of Pharmacy, Warananagar, Tal: Panhala, Kolhapur, Maharashtra 416 113, India
| | - Kaustubh Kolekar
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Tatyasaheb Kore College of Pharmacy, Warananagar, Tal: Panhala, Kolhapur, Maharashtra 416 113, India
| | - Sukriti Vishwas
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab 144 411, India
| | - Priya Shetti
- Dr. Prabhakar Kore Basic Science Research Centre, KLE Academy of Higher Education & Research, Belagavi, India
| | - Vijay Kumbar
- Dr. Prabhakar Kore Basic Science Research Centre, KLE Academy of Higher Education & Research, Belagavi, India.
| | - Terezinha de Jesus Andreoli Pinto
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Professor Lineu Prestes Street, São Paulo 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Ana Cláudia Paiva-Santos
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy of the University of Coimbra, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; REQUIMTE/LAQV, Group of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy of the University of Coimbra, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Francisco Veiga
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy of the University of Coimbra, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; REQUIMTE/LAQV, Group of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy of the University of Coimbra, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Guarav Gupta
- Center for Global Health research (CGHR), Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS), Saveetha University, Chennai, India; Centre of Medical and Bio-allied Health Sciences Research, Ajman University, Ajman, United Arab Emirates
| | - Sachin Kumar Singh
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab 144 411, India; Discipline of Pharmacy, Graduate School of Health, University of Technology Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia; School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, 47500 Sunway City, Malaysia
| | - Kamal Dua
- Discipline of Pharmacy, Graduate School of Health, University of Technology Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia; Faculty of Health, Australian Research Centre in Complementary and Integrative Medicine, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - John Disouza
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Tatyasaheb Kore College of Pharmacy, Warananagar, Tal: Panhala, Kolhapur, Maharashtra 416 113, India.
| | - Vandana Patravale
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Institute of Chemical Technology, Matunga, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400019, India.
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Basyal D, Lee S, Kim HJ. Antioxidants and Mechanistic Insights for Managing Dry Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Antioxidants (Basel) 2024; 13:568. [PMID: 38790673 PMCID: PMC11117704 DOI: 10.3390/antiox13050568] [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: 03/18/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) severely affects central vision due to progressive macular degeneration and its staggering prevalence is rising globally, especially in the elderly population above 55 years. Increased oxidative stress with aging is considered an important contributor to AMD pathogenesis despite multifaceted risk factors including genetic predisposition and environmental agents. Wet AMD can be managed with routine intra-vitreal injection of angiogenesis inhibitors, but no satisfactory medicine has been approved for the successful management of the dry form. The toxic carbonyls due to photo-oxidative degradation of accumulated bisretinoids within lysosomes initiate a series of events including protein adduct formation, impaired autophagy flux, complement activation, and chronic inflammation, which is implicated in dry AMD. Therapy based on antioxidants has been extensively studied for its promising effect in reducing the impact of oxidative stress. This paper reviews the dry AMD pathogenesis, delineates the effectiveness of dietary and nutrition supplements in clinical studies, and explores pre-clinical studies of antioxidant molecules, extracts, and formulations with their mechanistic insights.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Hye Jin Kim
- College of Pharmacy, Keimyung University, Dauge 42601, Republic of Korea
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Berkowitz ST, Finn AP. Gene therapy for age-related macular degeneration: potential, feasibility, and pitfalls. Curr Opin Ophthalmol 2024; 35:170-177. [PMID: 38441066 DOI: 10.1097/icu.0000000000001043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/06/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The landscape for age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is rapidly changing with addition of biosimilars and now United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved nonneovascular AMD (nnAMD) treatment options. These developments have inspired a burgeoning pipeline of gene therapy approaches focused on similar antivascular endothelial growth factors (VEGF) and complement related pathways. Historic and more recent setbacks in the gene therapy pipeline, including intraocular inflammatory reactions, have raised important concerns for adverse events related to AMD therapeutics both for gene and nongene approaches. The specific clinical profile of these therapeutics approaching later stage clinical trials are complex and under active investigation; however, these options hold promise to disrupt the current landscape and change management paradigms for one of the leading causes of vision loss worldwide. RECENT FINDINGS This review covers current gene therapy approaches for neovascular AMD (nAMD) and nnAMD. Intravitreal, suprachoroidal, and subretinal delivery routes are discussed with attention to technical procedure, capabilities for transgene delivery to target tissue, immunogenicity, and collateral effects. Suprachoroidal delivery is an emerging approach which may bridge some of the practical drawbacks for intravitreal and subretinal methods, though with less elaborated immunologic profile. In parallel to delivery modification, viral vectors have been cultivated to target specific cells, with promising enhancements in adeno-associated viral (AAV) vectors and persistent interest in alternate viral and nonviral delivery vectors. Ongoing questions such as steroid or immunosuppressive regimen and economic considerations from a payer and societal perspective are discussed. SUMMARY The present review discusses emerging gene therapy options which could foster new, more durable nAMD and nnAMD therapeutics. These options will need refinement with regards to route, vector, and dosage, and specialists must decipher the specific clinical risk benefit profile for individual patients. Ongoing concerns for immunogenicity or dosage related adverse events could stifle progress, while further vector development and refined delivery techniques have the potential to change the safety and efficacy of currently options in the pipeline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean T Berkowitz
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Department of Ophthalmology, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
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Blasiak J, Pawlowska E, Ciupińska J, Derwich M, Szczepanska J, Kaarniranta K. A New Generation of Gene Therapies as the Future of Wet AMD Treatment. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2386. [PMID: 38397064 PMCID: PMC10888617 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25042386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is an eye disease and the most common cause of vision loss in the Western World. In its advanced stage, AMD occurs in two clinically distinguished forms, dry and wet, but only wet AMD is treatable. However, the treatment based on repeated injections with vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) antagonists may at best stop the disease progression and prevent or delay vision loss but without an improvement of visual dysfunction. Moreover, it is a serious mental and financial burden for patients and may be linked with some complications. The recent first success of intravitreal gene therapy with ADVM-022, which transformed retinal cells to continuous production of aflibercept, a VEGF antagonist, after a single injection, has opened a revolutionary perspective in wet AMD treatment. Promising results obtained so far in other ongoing clinical trials support this perspective. In this narrative/hypothesis review, we present basic information on wet AMD pathogenesis and treatment, the concept of gene therapy in retinal diseases, update evidence on completed and ongoing clinical trials with gene therapy for wet AMD, and perspectives on the progress to the clinic of "one and done" therapy for wet AMD to replace a lifetime of injections. Gene editing targeting the VEGFA gene is also presented as another gene therapy strategy to improve wet AMD management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janusz Blasiak
- Faculty of Medicine, Collegium Medicum, Mazovian Academy in Plock, 09-402 Plock, Poland
| | - Elzbieta Pawlowska
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Medical University of Lodz, 92-217 Lodz, Poland; (E.P.); (M.D.); (J.S.)
| | - Justyna Ciupińska
- Clinical Department of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, H. Bieganski Hospital, 91-347 Lodz, Poland;
| | - Marcin Derwich
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Medical University of Lodz, 92-217 Lodz, Poland; (E.P.); (M.D.); (J.S.)
| | - Joanna Szczepanska
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Medical University of Lodz, 92-217 Lodz, Poland; (E.P.); (M.D.); (J.S.)
| | - Kai Kaarniranta
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Eastern Finland, 70210 Kuopio, Finland;
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kuopio University Hospital, 70210 Kuopio, Finland
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Penha FM, Masud M, Khanani ZA, Thomas M, Fong RD, Smith K, Chand A, Khan M, Gahn G, Melo GB, Khanani AM. Review of real-world evidence of dual inhibition of VEGF-A and ANG-2 with faricimab in NAMD and DME. Int J Retina Vitreous 2024; 10:5. [PMID: 38233896 PMCID: PMC10795384 DOI: 10.1186/s40942-024-00525-9] [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: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Management of vitreoretinal disorders (e.g., neovascular age-related macular degeneration [nAMD] and diabetic macular edema [DME]) have assumed the standard therapy of lifelong anti-VEGF injections with drugs like aflibercept, brolucizumab, ranibizumab and bevacizumab. However, the burden imposed on patients is a major deterrent for continual therapy and recovery. Faricimab, a bispecific antibody, blocking both VEGF-A and Ang-2 molecules, produces a comparable functional and anatomical results, with less injections, significantly reducing patient burden. Visual acuity, safety, adverse effects, and anatomical outcomes are discussed in the pivotal clinical trials (YOSEMITE/RHINE and TENAYA/LUCERNE), and early data from real-world studies (TRUCKEE, TAHOE, FARWIDE-DME, FARETINA and others). In YOSEMITE and RHINE, faricimab demonstrated non-inferior vision gains, better anatomical outcomes compared to aflibercept every 8 weeks. Faricimab in the personalized treatment interval (PTI), after week 96, achieved 12-week interval in 78.1% of the patients and 16-week interval in 62.3%. TENAYA and LUCERNE reported comparable best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) improvement and better anatomic outcomes during head-to-head phase, parallel to aflibercept, at its 8-week treatment schedule. Faricimab in the PTI regimen, after week 96 achieved 12-week interval in 77.8% of the patients and 16-week interval in 63.1%. Safety of faricimab has been comparable to aflibercept in these pivotal trials. Real-world data supports the data from the pivotal studies regarding the efficacy and safety profile of faricimab in heterogenous real world patient population. Moreover, in previously treated patients, it also demonstrated a faster fluid resolution, good safety profile. Considering faricimab has demonstrated anatomic and durability benefit in the treatment of nAMD and DME, additional data from ongoing extension clinical trials, AVONELLE-X and RHONE-X will help understand longer term outcomes for patients treated with faricimab as well as patients switching from aflibercept to faricimab after finishing the pivotal trials. Longer term data from the real-world studies will also continue to contribute to our understanding of long-term efficacy, safety and durability in the real world patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando M Penha
- Fundação Universidade Regional de Blumenau, FURB, Blumenau, SC, Brazil
| | - Maliha Masud
- University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Reno, NV, USA
| | - Zoha A Khanani
- University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Reno, NV, USA
| | - Mathew Thomas
- University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Reno, NV, USA
| | - Rodney D Fong
- University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Reno, NV, USA
| | - Kyler Smith
- University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Reno, NV, USA
| | - Avishay Chand
- University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Reno, NV, USA
| | - Majid Khan
- University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Reno, NV, USA
| | - Greggory Gahn
- University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Reno, NV, USA
| | | | - Arshad M Khanani
- University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Reno, NV, USA.
- Sierra Eye Associates, 950 Ryland St, Reno, NV, 89502, USA.
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Castro BFM, Steel JC, Layton CJ. AAV-Based Strategies for Treatment of Retinal and Choroidal Vascular Diseases: Advances in Age-Related Macular Degeneration and Diabetic Retinopathy Therapies. BioDrugs 2024; 38:73-93. [PMID: 37878215 PMCID: PMC10789843 DOI: 10.1007/s40259-023-00629-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023]
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and diabetic retinopathy (DR) are vascular diseases with high prevalence, ranking among the leading causes of blindness and vision loss worldwide. Despite being effective, current treatments for AMD and DR are burdensome for patients and clinicians, resulting in suboptimal compliance and real risk of vision loss. Thus, there is an unmet need for long-lasting alternatives with improved safety and efficacy. Adeno-associated virus (AAV) is the leading vector for ocular gene delivery, given its ability to enable long-term expression while eliciting relatively mild immune responses. Progress has been made in AAV-based gene therapies for not only inherited retinal diseases but also acquired conditions with preclinical and clinical studies of AMD and DR showing promising results. These studies have explored several pathways involved in the disease pathogenesis, as well as different strategies to optimise gene delivery. These include engineered capsids with enhanced tropism to particular cell types, and expression cassettes incorporating elements for a targeted and controlled expression. Multiple-acting constructs have also been investigated, in addition to gene silencing and editing. Here, we provide an overview of strategies employing AAV-mediated gene delivery to treat AMD and DR. We discuss preclinical efficacy studies and present the latest data from clinical trials for both diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brenda F M Castro
- LVF Ophthalmology Research Centre, Translational Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, 4102, Australia.
- Greenslopes Clinical School, University of Queensland School of Medicine, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
| | - Jason C Steel
- LVF Ophthalmology Research Centre, Translational Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, 4102, Australia
- Greenslopes Clinical School, University of Queensland School of Medicine, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Rockhampton, QLD, Australia
| | - Christopher J Layton
- LVF Ophthalmology Research Centre, Translational Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, 4102, Australia.
- Greenslopes Clinical School, University of Queensland School of Medicine, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
- School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Rockhampton, QLD, Australia.
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Khanani AM, Boyer DS, Wykoff CC, Regillo CD, Busbee BG, Pieramici D, Danzig CJ, Joondeph BC, Major JC, Turpcu A, Kiss S. Safety and efficacy of ixoberogene soroparvovec in neovascular age-related macular degeneration in the United States (OPTIC): a prospective, two-year, multicentre phase 1 study. EClinicalMedicine 2024; 67:102394. [PMID: 38152412 PMCID: PMC10751837 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2023.102394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Gene therapy, successfully used in rare, monogenetic disorders, may prove to be a durable management approach for common, polygenetic conditions, including neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD). Repeated injections, oftentimes monthly, and possibly for decades, of vascular endothelial growth factor antagonists (anti-VEGF), is the standard for nAMD. We hypothesised that an in-office, intravitreal administration of ixoberogene soroparvovec (ixo-vec, formerly ADVM-022), a single-dose gene therapy encoding for the proven anti-VEGF protein, aflibercept, would transform retinal cells to continually produce aflibercept to minimise treatment burden in nAMD. Methods In this two-year, open-label, prospective, multicentre phase 1 study, patients with nAMD responding to anti-VEGF were assigned to four cohorts differing by ixo-vec dose (2 × 1011 vs 6 × 1011 vector genomes (vg/eye)) and prophylactic steroids (oral prednisone vs topical difluprednate). The primary outcome was the type, severity, and incidence of ocular and systemic adverse events (AEs); secondary endpoints included vision, central subfield thickness (CST), and the number of supplemental injections. This study was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03748784. Findings Thirty patients with nAMD were enrolled between November 14, 2018 and June 30, 2020 at nine study sites in the United States. No systemic ixo-vec related AEs were noted. Across both dose groups the most common adverse event was anterior chamber cell, which was reported in 11 participants in the 6 × 1011 dose group and in 7 participants in the 2 × 1011 dose group; intraocular inflammation was responsive to topical corticosteroids, with no anterior chamber cells or vitreous cells observed in 2 × 1011 vg/eye patients at the end of the study. Vision and CST remained stable throughout two years with annualised anti-VEGF injections reduced by 80% (10.0 mean annualised anti-VEGF injections to 1.9) in 2 × 1011 vg/eye and 98% (9.8 mean annualised anti-VEGF injections to 0.2) in 6 × 1011 vg/eye cohorts. Interpretation Ixo-vec was generally well-tolerated, maintained vision, and improved anatomical outcomes in nAMD, with a substantial reduction in anti-VEGF injections. A single administration of an in-office gene therapy, with vectorised protein with an already established clinical benefit, has the potential to revolutionise the management of common ocular disorders requiring ongoing, frequent therapeutic interventions. Funding Adverum Biotechnologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arshad M. Khanani
- Sierra Eye Associates, Reno, NV, USA
- The University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Reno, NV, USA
| | - David S. Boyer
- Retina Vitreous Associates Medical Group, Beverly Hills, CA, USA
| | - Charles C. Wykoff
- Retina Consultants of Texas, Retina Consultants of America, Blanton Eye Institute, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Carl D. Regillo
- Mid Atlantic Retina, Wills Eye Hospital, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | | | - Carl J. Danzig
- Rand Eye Institute, Deerfield Beach, FL, USA
- Florida Atlantic University, Charles E. Schmidt School of Medicine, Boca Raton, FL, USA
| | | | - James C. Major
- Retina Consultants of Texas, Retina Consultants of America, Blanton Eye Institute, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Adam Turpcu
- Adverum Biotechnologies, Redwood City, CA, USA
| | - Szilárd Kiss
- Department of Ophthalmology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York-Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY, USA
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Aziz AA, Khan H, Khanani ZA, Thomas MJ, Khan H, Ahmed A, Gahn GM, Khanani AM. Review of Gene Therapy Clinical Trials for Retinal Diseases. Int Ophthalmol Clin 2024; 64:141-151. [PMID: 38146887 DOI: 10.1097/iio.0000000000000517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2023]
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10
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Mastropasqua R, Gironi M, D’Aloisio R, Pastore V, Boscia G, Vecchiarino L, Perna F, Clemente K, Palladinetti I, Calandra M, Piepoli M, Porreca A, Di Nicola M, Boscia F. Intraoperative Iridectomy in Femto-Laser Assisted Smaller-Incision New Generation Implantable Miniature Telescope. J Clin Med 2023; 13:76. [PMID: 38202083 PMCID: PMC10779865 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13010076] [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: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In this study, we aimed to report the short-term (6 months) effects on visual functionality and safety of femto-laser assisted smaller-incision new-generation implantable miniature telescope (SING-IMT™) implanting, particularly related to postsurgical intraocular pressure increase, in patients suffering from end-stage age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataract. This device, designed for monocular use, aims to minimise the impact of the central scotoma by projecting the images onto a larger area of the photoreceptors surrounding the macula. METHODS In this prospective multicentric observational case series study, 6 eyes of 6 patients who underwent SING-IMT™ implantations were enrolled. At baseline and 6 months follow-up, best corrected distance visual acuity (BCDV) and best corrected near visual acuity (BCNVA), intraocular pressure (IOP), anterior chamber depth, endothelial cells count were assessed. In addition, IOP was also measured at 7, 15, 30, 45 days, and at 3 months follow-up. Finally, the incidence of complications was evaluated. RESULTS At final follow-up, in the study eyes, mean BCDVA improved by +10.0 letters (6.25; 13.8) letters and mean BCNVA improved by -0.30 logMAR (-0.55; -0.20). At postoperative month 6, we reported a mean IOP decrease of 4.50 mmHg (-5.75; -0.25). Interestingly, 83.3% of patients had an increased IOP value in at least one of the first two postoperative follow-ups (7 days and 15 days). In patients in whom intraoperative mechanical iridotomy was not performed, it was necessary to perform a postoperative YAG laser iridotomy to improve IOP management. Compared to the baseline, ECD loss at 6 months follow-up was 12.6%. CONCLUSIONS The SING IMT™ device was found to be effective in the distance and near vision improvement, without serious postoperative complications. We recommend intraoperative mechanical iridectomy in order to easily manage post-operative IOP and to avoid sudden IOP rise with its possible consequences. These good results can be a hope to partially improve the quality of life of patients suffering from severe end stage macular atrophy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodolfo Mastropasqua
- Ophthalmology Clinic, Department of Medicine and Science of Ageing, University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (R.M.); (M.G.); (L.V.); (F.P.); (K.C.); (I.P.); (M.C.)
| | - Matteo Gironi
- Ophthalmology Clinic, Department of Medicine and Science of Ageing, University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (R.M.); (M.G.); (L.V.); (F.P.); (K.C.); (I.P.); (M.C.)
| | - Rossella D’Aloisio
- Ophthalmology Clinic, Department of Medicine and Science of Ageing, University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (R.M.); (M.G.); (L.V.); (F.P.); (K.C.); (I.P.); (M.C.)
| | - Valentina Pastore
- Eye Clinic, Department of Medical Science, Neuroscience and Sense Organs, University of Bari, 70121 Bari, Italy; (V.P.); (G.B.); (M.P.); (F.B.)
| | - Giacomo Boscia
- Eye Clinic, Department of Medical Science, Neuroscience and Sense Organs, University of Bari, 70121 Bari, Italy; (V.P.); (G.B.); (M.P.); (F.B.)
| | - Luca Vecchiarino
- Ophthalmology Clinic, Department of Medicine and Science of Ageing, University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (R.M.); (M.G.); (L.V.); (F.P.); (K.C.); (I.P.); (M.C.)
| | - Fabiana Perna
- Ophthalmology Clinic, Department of Medicine and Science of Ageing, University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (R.M.); (M.G.); (L.V.); (F.P.); (K.C.); (I.P.); (M.C.)
- International Agency of Prevention of Blindness, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Katia Clemente
- Ophthalmology Clinic, Department of Medicine and Science of Ageing, University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (R.M.); (M.G.); (L.V.); (F.P.); (K.C.); (I.P.); (M.C.)
| | - Ilaria Palladinetti
- Ophthalmology Clinic, Department of Medicine and Science of Ageing, University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (R.M.); (M.G.); (L.V.); (F.P.); (K.C.); (I.P.); (M.C.)
| | - Michela Calandra
- Ophthalmology Clinic, Department of Medicine and Science of Ageing, University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (R.M.); (M.G.); (L.V.); (F.P.); (K.C.); (I.P.); (M.C.)
| | - Marina Piepoli
- Eye Clinic, Department of Medical Science, Neuroscience and Sense Organs, University of Bari, 70121 Bari, Italy; (V.P.); (G.B.); (M.P.); (F.B.)
| | - Annamaria Porreca
- Laboratory of Biostatistics, Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences, University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (A.P.); (M.D.N.)
| | - Marta Di Nicola
- Laboratory of Biostatistics, Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences, University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (A.P.); (M.D.N.)
| | - Francesco Boscia
- Eye Clinic, Department of Medical Science, Neuroscience and Sense Organs, University of Bari, 70121 Bari, Italy; (V.P.); (G.B.); (M.P.); (F.B.)
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11
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Han N, Xu X, Liu Y, Luo G. AAV2-antiVEGFscFv gene therapy for retinal neovascularization. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2023; 31:101145. [PMID: 38027065 PMCID: PMC10679950 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2023.101145] [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: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Retinal neovascularization (NV) may lead to irreversible vision impairment, the main treatment for which is the inhibition of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Existing drugs show limited clinical benefits because of their high prices and short half-lives, which increase the financial burden and medical risks to patients. Gene therapy on the basis of adeno-associated viruses is a promising approach to overcome these limitations because of the nonintegrative nature, low immunogenicity, and potential long-term gene expression of adeno-associated viruses. In this study, we constructed a novel recombinant adeno-associated virus with the single-chain fragment variable (scFv) fragment of the anti-VEGF antibody, AAV2-antiVEGFscFv, consisting of the VH and VL structural domains of IgG. AAV2-antiVEGFscFv effectively inhibited NV, retinal leakage, and retinal detachment in oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR) mice, Tet/opsin/VEGF double-transgenic mice, and VEGF-induced rabbit NV models. AAV2-antiVEGFscFv also significantly suppressed VEGF-induced inflammation. Furthermore, we showed that AAV2-antiVEGFscFv could be sustainably expressed for a prolonged period and exhibited low immunotoxicity in vivo. This study indicates that AAV2-antiVEGFscFv could be a potential approach for NV treatment and provides strong support for preclinical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ni Han
- Institute of Health Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
| | - Xin Xu
- Institute of Health Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
| | - Ying Liu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
| | - Guangzuo Luo
- Institute of Health Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
- Bionce Biotechnology, Ltd., Nanjing 210061, China
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12
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Finocchio L, Zeppieri M, Gabai A, Toneatto G, Spadea L, Salati C. Recent Developments in Gene Therapy for Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration: A Review. Biomedicines 2023; 11:3221. [PMID: 38137442 PMCID: PMC10740940 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11123221] [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: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a complex and multifactorial disease and a leading cause of irreversible blindness in the elderly population. The anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) therapy has revolutionized the management and prognosis of neovascular AMD (nAMD) and is currently the standard of care for this disease. However, patients are required to receive repeated injections, imposing substantial social and economic burdens. The implementation of gene therapy methods to achieve sustained delivery of various therapeutic proteins holds the promise of a single treatment that could ameliorate the treatment challenges associated with chronic intravitreal therapy, and potentially improve visual outcomes. Several early-phase trials are currently underway, evaluating the safety and efficacy of gene therapy for nAMD; however, areas of controversy persist, including the therapeutic target, route of administration, and potential safety issues. In this review, we assess the evolution of gene therapy for nAMD and summarize several preclinical and early-stage clinical trials, exploring challenges and future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Finocchio
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Marco Zeppieri
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Andrea Gabai
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Giacomo Toneatto
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Leopoldo Spadea
- Eye Clinic, Policlinico Umberto I, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00142 Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo Salati
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
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13
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Guo S, Liu X, Cheng X, Jiang Y, Ji S, Liang Q, Koval A, Li Y, Owen LA, Kim IK, Aparicio A, Shen JP, Kopetz S, Weinstein JN, DeAngelis MM, Chen R, Wang W. DeMixSC: a deconvolution framework that uses single-cell sequencing plus a small benchmark dataset for improved analysis of cell-type ratios in complex tissue samples. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.10.10.561733. [PMID: 37873318 PMCID: PMC10592762 DOI: 10.1101/2023.10.10.561733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
Bulk deconvolution with single-cell/nucleus RNA-seq data is critical for understanding heterogeneity in complex biological samples, yet the technological discrepancy across sequencing platforms limits deconvolution accuracy. To address this, we introduce an experimental design to match inter-platform biological signals, hence revealing the technological discrepancy, and then develop a deconvolution framework called DeMixSC using the better-matched, i.e., benchmark, data. Built upon a novel weighted nonnegative least-squares framework, DeMixSC identifies and adjusts genes with high technological discrepancy and aligns the benchmark data with large patient cohorts of matched-tissue-type for large-scale deconvolution. Our results using a benchmark dataset of healthy retinas suggest much-improved deconvolution accuracy. Further analysis of a cohort of 453 patients with age-related macular degeneration supports the broad applicability of DeMixSC. Our findings reveal the impact of technological discrepancy on deconvolution performance and underscore the importance of a well-matched dataset to resolve this challenge. The developed DeMixSC framework is generally applicable for deconvolving large cohorts of disease tissues, and potentially cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Guo
- Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
- Authors contributed equally
| | - Xiaoqian Liu
- Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
- Authors contributed equally
| | - Xuesen Cheng
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Authors contributed equally
| | - Yujie Jiang
- Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Statistics, Rice University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Shuangxi Ji
- Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Qingnan Liang
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Andrew Koval
- Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Statistics, Rice University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Yumei Li
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Leah A. Owen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Engineering, SUNY University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
- Department of Population Health Sciences, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Ivana K. Kim
- USA Retina Service, Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ana Aparicio
- Department of Genitourinary Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - John Paul Shen
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Scott Kopetz
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - John N. Weinstein
- Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Systems Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Margaret M. DeAngelis
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Engineering, SUNY University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
- Department of Population Health Sciences, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- VA Western New York Healthcare System, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Rui Chen
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Authors contributed equally
| | - Wenyi Wang
- Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
- Authors contributed equally
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14
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Ke X, Jiang H, Li Q, Luo S, Qin Y, Li J, Xie Q, Zheng Q. Preclinical evaluation of KH631, a novel rAAV8 gene therapy product for neovascular age-related macular degeneration. Mol Ther 2023; 31:3308-3321. [PMID: 37752703 PMCID: PMC10638048 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2023.09.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The upregulation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is strongly associated with the development of choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD). Currently, the standard treatment for nAMD involves frequent intravitreal injections of anti-VEGF agents, which inhibit the growth of new blood vessels and prevent leakage. However, this treatment regimen places a significant burden on patients, their families, and healthcare providers due to the need for repeated visits to the clinic for injections. Gene therapy, which enables the sustained expression of anti-VEGF proteins after a single injection, can dramatically reduce the treatment burden. KH631 is a recombinant adeno-associated virus 8 vector that encodes a human VEGF receptor fusion protein, and it is being developed as a long-term treatment for nAMD. In preclinical studies using non-human primates, subretinal administration of KH631 at a low dose of 3 × 108 vg/eye resulted in remarkable retention of the transgene product in the retina and prevented the formation and progression of grade IV CNV lesions. Furthermore, sustained transgene expression was observed for more than 96 weeks. These findings suggest that a single subretinal injection of KH631 has the potential to offer a one-time, low-dose treatment for nAMD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Ke
- Chengdu Origen Biotechnology Co., Ltd, Chengdu, China; Chengdu Kanghong Pharmaceuticals Group Co Ltd, Chengdu, China
| | - Hao Jiang
- Chengdu Origen Biotechnology Co., Ltd, Chengdu, China; Therapeutic Proteins Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu, China
| | - Qingwei Li
- Chengdu Origen Biotechnology Co., Ltd, Chengdu, China; Therapeutic Proteins Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu, China
| | - Shuang Luo
- Chengdu Origen Biotechnology Co., Ltd, Chengdu, China; Therapeutic Proteins Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu, China
| | - Yingfei Qin
- Chengdu Origen Biotechnology Co., Ltd, Chengdu, China
| | - Jing Li
- Chengdu Origen Biotechnology Co., Ltd, Chengdu, China
| | - Qing Xie
- Chengdu Origen Biotechnology Co., Ltd, Chengdu, China; Therapeutic Proteins Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu, China
| | - Qiang Zheng
- Chengdu Origen Biotechnology Co., Ltd, Chengdu, China; Chengdu Kanghong Pharmaceuticals Group Co Ltd, Chengdu, China; Therapeutic Proteins Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu, China.
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15
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Liang Y, Lan T, Gan Q, Liang H. Successful transduction of target gene mediated by adeno-associated virus 2 into lens epithelial cells in rats. J Virol Methods 2023; 321:114792. [PMID: 37591371 DOI: 10.1016/j.jviromet.2023.114792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023]
Abstract
The Adeno-Associated Virus (AAV) has emerged as a promising candidate for delivery of genetic material, exhibiting significant potential in various clinical applications. Although multiple AAV serotypes have been shown to transduce ocular tissues, there have been few studies of AAV transduction of lens epithelial cells (LECs) in the ocular. In this study, we compared the efficiency of intravitreal injection of six AAV serotypes (AAV2, AAV5, AAV6, AAV8, AAV9, and AAVDJ) to transduce lens and retina in rats, The expression and localization of the reporter gene ZsGreen in the lens and retina were examined using immunofluorescence staining, and the relative expression of ZsGreen mRNA was detected using RT-qPCR. Our results demonstrated that AAV2 had the highest efficiency in transducing LECs. All six AAV serotypes could transduce the retina. To validate this observation, we further constructed an AAV2 vector with exogenous gene senescence marker protein 30 (SMP30) and performed intravitreal injection to successfully overexpress SMP30 in LECs of rats. our results provide a basis for the use of AAV vector-mediated gene therapy for lens diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongshun Liang
- Department of Ophthalmology, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China
| | - Tian Lan
- Department of Ophthalmology, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China
| | - Qingqiao Gan
- Department of Ophthalmology, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China
| | - Hao Liang
- Department of Ophthalmology, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China.
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16
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Rathi S, Hasan R, Ueffing M, Clark SJ. Therapeutic targeting of the complement system in ocular disease. Drug Discov Today 2023; 28:103757. [PMID: 37657753 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2023.103757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/03/2023]
Abstract
The complement system is involved in the pathogenesis of several ocular diseases, providing a rationale for the investigation of complement-targeting therapeutics for these conditions. Dry age-related macular degeneration, as characterised by geographic atrophy (GA), is currently the most active area of research for complement-targeting therapeutics, with a complement C3 inhibitor approved in the United States earlier this year marking the first approved therapy for GA. This review discusses the role of complement in ocular disease, provides an overview of the complement-targeting agents currently under development for ocular conditions, and reflects on the lessons that can be learned from the preclinical investigations and clinical trials conducted in this field to date.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonika Rathi
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Department for Ophthalmology, University Medical Center, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | | | - Marius Ueffing
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Department for Ophthalmology, University Medical Center, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.
| | - Simon J Clark
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Department for Ophthalmology, University Medical Center, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany; University Eye Clinic, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany; Lydia Becker Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, Faculty of Biology, Medicine, and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
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17
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Wu J, Duan C, Yang Y, Wang Z, Tan C, Han C, Hou X. Insights into the liver-eyes connections, from epidemiological, mechanical studies to clinical translation. J Transl Med 2023; 21:712. [PMID: 37817192 PMCID: PMC10566185 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04543-3] [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: 04/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Maintenance of internal homeostasis is a sophisticated process, during which almost all organs get involved. Liver plays a central role in metabolism and involves in endocrine, immunity, detoxification and storage, and therefore it communicates with distant organs through such mechanisms to regulate pathophysiological processes. Dysfunctional liver is often accompanied by pathological phenotypes of distant organs, including the eyes. Many reviews have focused on crosstalk between the liver and gut, the liver and brain, the liver and heart, the liver and kidney, but with no attention paid to the liver and eyes. In this review, we summarized intimate connections between the liver and the eyes from three aspects. Epidemiologically, we suggest liver-related, potential, protective and risk factors for typical eye disease as well as eye indicators connected with liver status. For molecular mechanism aspect, we elaborate their inter-organ crosstalk from metabolism (glucose, lipid, proteins, vitamin, and mineral), detoxification (ammonia and bilirubin), and immunity (complement and inflammation regulation) aspect. In clinical application part, we emphasize the latest advances in utilizing the liver-eye axis in disease diagnosis and therapy, involving artificial intelligence-deep learning-based novel diagnostic tools for detecting liver disease and adeno-associated viral vector-based gene therapy method for curing blinding eye disease. We aim to focus on and provide novel insights into liver and eyes communications and help resolve existed clinically significant issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junhao Wu
- Division of Gastroenterology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022 Hubei China
| | - Caihan Duan
- Division of Gastroenterology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022 Hubei China
| | - Yuanfan Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Centre, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhe Wang
- Division of Gastroenterology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022 Hubei China
| | - Chen Tan
- Division of Gastroenterology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022 Hubei China
| | - Chaoqun Han
- Division of Gastroenterology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022 Hubei China
| | - Xiaohua Hou
- Division of Gastroenterology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022 Hubei China
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18
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Sasseville S, Karami S, Tchatchouang A, Charpentier P, Anney P, Gobert D, Proulx S. Biomaterials used for tissue engineering of barrier-forming cell monolayers in the eye. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1269385. [PMID: 37840667 PMCID: PMC10569698 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1269385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell monolayers that form a barrier between two structures play an important role for the maintenance of tissue functionality. In the anterior portion of the eye, the corneal endothelium forms a barrier that controls fluid exchange between the aqueous humor of the anterior chamber and the corneal stroma. This monolayer is central in the pathogenesis of Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD). FECD is a common corneal disease, in which corneal endothelial cells deposit extracellular matrix that increases the thickness of its basal membrane (Descemet's membrane), and forms excrescences (guttae). With time, there is a decrease in endothelial cell density that generates vision loss. Transplantation of a monolayer of healthy corneal endothelial cells on a Descemet membrane substitute could become an interesting alternative for the treatment of this pathology. In the back of the eye, the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) forms the blood-retinal barrier, controlling fluid exchange between the choriocapillaris and the photoreceptors of the outer retina. In the retinal disease dry age-related macular degeneration (dry AMD), deposits (drusen) form between the RPE and its basal membrane (Bruch's membrane). These deposits hinder fluid exchange, resulting in progressive RPE cell death, which in turn generates photoreceptor cell death, and vision loss. Transplantation of a RPE monolayer on a Bruch's membrane/choroidal stromal substitute to replace the RPE before photoreceptor cell death could become a treatment alternative for this eye disease. This review will present the different biomaterials that are proposed for the engineering of a monolayer of corneal endothelium for the treatment of FECD, and a RPE monolayer for the treatment of dry AMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Sasseville
- Axe Médecine Régénératrice, Hôpital du Saint-Sacrement, Centre de Recherche en Organogénèse Expérimentale de l’Université Laval/LOEX; Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) de Québec-Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
- Département d’ophtalmologie et d’oto-rhino-laryngologie-chirurgie cervico-faciale, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Samira Karami
- Axe Médecine Régénératrice, Hôpital du Saint-Sacrement, Centre de Recherche en Organogénèse Expérimentale de l’Université Laval/LOEX; Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) de Québec-Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
- Département d’ophtalmologie et d’oto-rhino-laryngologie-chirurgie cervico-faciale, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Ange Tchatchouang
- Axe Médecine Régénératrice, Hôpital du Saint-Sacrement, Centre de Recherche en Organogénèse Expérimentale de l’Université Laval/LOEX; Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) de Québec-Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
- Département d’ophtalmologie et d’oto-rhino-laryngologie-chirurgie cervico-faciale, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Pascale Charpentier
- Axe Médecine Régénératrice, Hôpital du Saint-Sacrement, Centre de Recherche en Organogénèse Expérimentale de l’Université Laval/LOEX; Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) de Québec-Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
- Département d’ophtalmologie et d’oto-rhino-laryngologie-chirurgie cervico-faciale, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Princia Anney
- Axe Médecine Régénératrice, Hôpital du Saint-Sacrement, Centre de Recherche en Organogénèse Expérimentale de l’Université Laval/LOEX; Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) de Québec-Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
- Département d’ophtalmologie et d’oto-rhino-laryngologie-chirurgie cervico-faciale, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Delphine Gobert
- Département d’ophtalmologie et d’oto-rhino-laryngologie-chirurgie cervico-faciale, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
- Centre universitaire d’ophtalmologie (CUO), Hôpital du Saint-Sacrement, CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Stéphanie Proulx
- Axe Médecine Régénératrice, Hôpital du Saint-Sacrement, Centre de Recherche en Organogénèse Expérimentale de l’Université Laval/LOEX; Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) de Québec-Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
- Département d’ophtalmologie et d’oto-rhino-laryngologie-chirurgie cervico-faciale, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
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19
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Timtim E, Weng CY, Finn AP. Safety of recent ophthalmic drugs and devices for wet macular degeneration. Curr Opin Ophthalmol 2023; 34:363-368. [PMID: 37326230 DOI: 10.1097/icu.0000000000000974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW With frequent antivascular endothelial growth factors (VEGF) injections well established as the standard of care in neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD), focus has now shifted towards decreasing treatment burden without compromising safety and efficacy. This review summarizes clinical stage and recently approved drugs and devices for nAMD, with an emphasis paid to safety concerns and their implications for product adoption. RECENT FINDINGS Three strategies have emerged to decrease the treatment burden associated with the current standard of care: more durable intravitreal agents, sustained-release modalities and gene therapy. The appearance of biosimilars will further impact drug availability and cost. As patterns of adverse events emerge from clinical trial or postmarketing surveillance data, manufacturers have proactively responded by appointing independent review committees or issuing voluntary recalls. However, the example of one biosimilar approved outside of the USA and European Union demonstrates how early safety concerns, even when addressed by substantive data, can generate lingering uncertainty. SUMMARY As the number of promising new treatments in nAMD continues to grow, so too does the amount of data that providers must sift through. The perception of safety surrounding first movers in each new therapeutic area is sure to affect adoption of that modality more broadly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elise Timtim
- Vanderbilt Eye Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Christina Y Weng
- Cullen Eye Institute, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Avni P Finn
- Vanderbilt Eye Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
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Shughoury A, Sevgi DD, Ciulla TA. The complement system: a novel therapeutic target for age-related macular degeneration. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2023; 24:1887-1899. [PMID: 37691588 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2023.2257604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION With the recent FDA approvals of pegcetacoplan (SYFOVRE, Apellis Pharmaceuticals) and avacincaptad pegol (IZERVAY, Astellas Pharmaceuticals), modulation of the complement system has emerged as a promising therapeutic approach for slowing progression of geographic atrophy (GA) in AMD. AREAS COVERED This article reviews the current understanding of the complement system, its role in AMD, and the various complement-targeting therapies in development for the treatment of GA, including monoclonal antibodies, aptamers, protein analogs, and gene therapies. Approved and investigational agents have largely focused on interfering with the activity of complement components 3 and 5, owing to their central roles in the classical, lectin, and alternative complement pathways. Other investigational therapies have targeted formation of membrane attack complex (a terminal step in the complement cascade which leads to cell lysis), complement factors H and I (which serve regulatory functions in the alternative pathway), complement factors B and D (within the alternative pathway), and complement component 1 (within the classical pathway). Clinical trials investigating these agents are summarized, and the potential benefits and limitations of these therapies are discussed. EXPERT OPINION Targeting the complement system is a promising therapeutic approach for slowing the progression of GA in AMD, potentially improving visual outcomes. However, increased risk of exudative conversion must be considered, and further research is required to identify clinical criteria and best practices for initiating complement inhibitor therapy for GA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aumer Shughoury
- Department of Ophthalmology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Duriye D Sevgi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Thomas A Ciulla
- Department of Ophthalmology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Clearside Biomedical, Inc, Alpharetta, GA, USA
- Midwest Eye Institute, Carmel, IN, USA
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21
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Chiang T, Kurup SK, Hariprasad SM. Immunological and Inflammatory Side Effects of Treatments for Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina 2023; 54:440-445. [PMID: 37603784 DOI: 10.3928/23258160-20230724-01] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/23/2023]
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22
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Priglinger CS, Gerhardt MJ, Rudolph G, Priglinger SG, Michalakis S. [Gene therapy in ophthalmology]. DIE OPHTHALMOLOGIE 2023; 120:867-882. [PMID: 37418021 DOI: 10.1007/s00347-023-01883-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
In 2017 the gene therapy medication voretigene neparvovec-rzyl was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for retinal gene therapy of hereditary retinal dystrophies caused by mutations in the RPE65 gene. Voretigene neparvovec-rzyl is a gene augmentation therapy using an adeno-associated virus-based vector to express a healthy copy of the human RPE65 gene in the patient's retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells. The success of gene augmentation therapy in RPE65-linked retinal dystrophy encouraged research activities on the concept of gene supplementation to be extended to nongenetic diseases, such as age-related macular degeneration; however, it also showed that the principle of success cannot be easily extended to other retinal dystrophies. This review article presents the most commonly used principles and technologies of gene therapy and provides an overview of the current challenges and limitations. Furthermore, practice-relevant aspects of the indications and the treatment procedure are discussed. Particular attention is paid to the consideration of disease stages, especially with respect to patient's expectations and the evaluation of treatment success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia S Priglinger
- Augenklinik, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Mathildenstr. 8, 80336, München, Deutschland.
| | - Maximilian J Gerhardt
- Augenklinik, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Mathildenstr. 8, 80336, München, Deutschland
| | - Günther Rudolph
- Augenklinik, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Mathildenstr. 8, 80336, München, Deutschland
| | - Siegfried G Priglinger
- Augenklinik, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Mathildenstr. 8, 80336, München, Deutschland
| | - Stylianos Michalakis
- Augenklinik, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Mathildenstr. 8, 80336, München, Deutschland
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Huang C, Ji L, Kaur A, Tian H, Waduge P, Webster KA, Li W. Anti-Scg3 Gene Therapy to Treat Choroidal Neovascularization in Mice. Biomedicines 2023; 11:1910. [PMID: 37509549 PMCID: PMC10377229 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11071910] [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: 04/22/2023] [Revised: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) with choroidal neovascularization (CNV) is a leading cause of blindness in the elderly in developed countries. The disease is currently treated with anti-angiogenic biologics, including aflibercept, against vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) but with limited efficacy, treatment resistance and requirement for frequent intravitreal injections. Although anti-VEGF gene therapy may provide sustained therapy that obviates multiple injections, the efficacy and side effects related to VEGF pathway targeting remain, and alternative strategies to block angiogenesis independently of VEGF are needed. We recently reported that secretogranin III (Scg3) induces only pathological angiogenesis through VEGF-independent pathways, and Scg3-neutralizing antibodies selectively inhibit pathological but not physiological angiogenesis in mouse proliferative retinopathy models. Anti-Scg3 antibodies synergize dose-dependently with VEGF inhibitors in a CNV model. Here, we report that an adeno-associated virus-8 (AAV8) vector expressing anti-Scg3 Fab ameliorated CNV with an efficacy similar to that of AAV-aflibercept in a mouse model. This study is the first to test an anti-angiogenic gene therapy protocol that selectively targets pathological angiogenesis via a VEGF-independent mechanism. The findings support further safety/efficacy studies of anti-Scg3 gene therapy as monotherapy or combined with anti-VEGF to treat nAMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengchi Huang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Cullen Eye Institute, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Liyang Ji
- Department of Ophthalmology, Cullen Eye Institute, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Avinash Kaur
- Department of Ophthalmology, Cullen Eye Institute, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Hong Tian
- Everglades Biopharma, LLC, Houston, TX 77098, USA
| | - Prabuddha Waduge
- Department of Ophthalmology, Cullen Eye Institute, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Keith A Webster
- Department of Ophthalmology, Cullen Eye Institute, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Everglades Biopharma, LLC, Houston, TX 77098, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, Vascular Biology Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Cullen Eye Institute, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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Shughoury A, Bhatwadekar A, Jusufbegovic D, Hajrasouliha A, Ciulla TA. The evolving therapeutic landscape of diabetic retinopathy. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2023; 23:969-985. [PMID: 37578843 PMCID: PMC10592121 DOI: 10.1080/14712598.2023.2247987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a leading cause of blindness worldwide. Recent decades have seen rapid progress in the management of diabetic eye disease, evolving from pituitary ablation to photocoagulation and intravitreal pharmacotherapy. The advent of effective intravitreal drugs inhibiting vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) marked a new era in DR therapy. Sustained innovation has since produced several promising biologics targeting angiogenesis, inflammation, oxidative stress, and neurodegeneration. AREAS COVERED This review surveys traditional, contemporary, and emerging therapeutics for DR, with an emphasis on anti-VEGF therapies, receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors, angiopoietin-Tie2 pathway inhibitors, integrin pathway inhibitors, gene therapy 'biofactory' approaches, and novel systemic therapies. Some of these investigational therapies are being delivered intravitreally via sustained release technologies for extended durability. Other investigational agents are being delivered non-invasively via topical and systemic routes. These strategies hold promise for early and long-lasting treatment of DR. EXPERT OPINION The evolving therapeutic landscape of DR is rapidly expanding our toolkit for the effective and durable treatment of blinding eye disease. However, further research is required to validate the efficacy of novel therapeutics and characterize real world outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aumer Shughoury
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eugene and Marilyn Glick Eye Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA 46202
| | - Ashay Bhatwadekar
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eugene and Marilyn Glick Eye Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA 46202
| | - Denis Jusufbegovic
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eugene and Marilyn Glick Eye Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA 46202
| | - Amir Hajrasouliha
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eugene and Marilyn Glick Eye Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA 46202
| | - Thomas A Ciulla
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eugene and Marilyn Glick Eye Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA 46202
- Midwest Eye Institute, Indianapolis, IN, USA 46290
- Clearside Biomedical, Inc., Alpharetta, GA, USA 30005
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Gu F, Jiang J, Sun P. Recent advances of exosomes in age-related macular degeneration. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1204351. [PMID: 37332352 PMCID: PMC10272348 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1204351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Exosomes are 30-150 nm extracellular vesicles that are secreted by almost all types of cells. Exosomes contain a variety of biologically active substances, such as proteins, nucleic acids, and lipids, and are important in the intercellular communication of biological mediators involved in nerve injury and repair, vascular regeneration, immune response, fibrosis formation, and many other pathophysiological processes. Although it has been extensively studied in the field of cancer, the exploration of ocular diseases has only just begun. Here, we discuss the latest developments in exosomes for age-related macular degeneration (AMD), including the pathogenesis of exosomes in age-related macular degeneration, their potential as diagnostic markers, and therapeutic vectors of the disease. Finally, the study of exosomes in age-related macular degeneration is still relatively few, and more detailed basic research and clinical trials are needed to verify its application in treatment and diagnosis, so as to adopt more personalized diagnosis and treatment strategies to stop the progression of age-related macular degeneration.
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Huang X, Zhang L, Fu Y, Zhang M, Yang Q, Peng J. Rethinking the potential and necessity of drug delivery systems in neovascular age-related macular degeneration therapy. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1199922. [PMID: 37288355 PMCID: PMC10242387 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1199922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the predominant threat to human vision and ultimately results in blindness. With the increase in the aging population, it has become a more crucial issue to human health. AMD is a multifactorial disease with the unique feature of uncontrollable angiogenesis during initiation and progression. Although increasing evidence indicates that AMD is largely hereditary, the predominant efficient treatment is antiangiogenesis, which mainly involves VEGF and HIF-α as therapeutic targets. The repeated administration of this treatment over the long term, generally through intravitreal injection, has called for the introduction of long-term drug delivery systems, which are expected to be achieved by biomaterials. However, the clinical results of the port delivery system indicate that the optimization of medical devices toward prolonging the activities of therapeutic biologics in AMD therapy seems more promising. These results indicate that we should rethink the possibility and potential of biomaterials as drug delivery systems in achieving long-term, sustained inhibition of angiogenesis in AMD therapy. In this review, the etiology, categorization, risk factors, pathogenesis, and current clinical treatments of AMD are briefly introduced. Next, the development status of long-term drug delivery systems is discussed, and the drawbacks and shortages of these systems are emphasized. By comprehensively considering the pathological aspect and the recent application of drug delivery systems in AMD therapy, we hope to find a better solution for the further development of long-term therapeutic strategies for AMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Huang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Research Laboratory of Macular Disease, Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Research Laboratory of Macular Disease, Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yanyan Fu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Research Laboratory of Macular Disease, Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Meixia Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Research Laboratory of Macular Disease, Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Qian Yang
- Center of Scientific Research, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Jinrong Peng
- Department of Ophthalmology, Research Laboratory of Macular Disease, Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
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Cedro L, Hoffmann L, Hatz K. Geographic Atrophy in AMD: Prognostic Factors Based on Long-Term Follow-Up. Ophthalmic Res 2023; 66:791-800. [PMID: 37231906 PMCID: PMC10308554 DOI: 10.1159/000530418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The aim of this large-scale long-term retrospective study was to show the enlargement rate (ER) of geographic atrophy (GA) in age-related macular degeneration (AMD), defined as complete retinal pigment epithelium and outer retinal atrophy (cRORA), to find predictors of progression in a clinical routine setting and to compare GA evaluation methods. METHODS All patients available in our database with follow-up of at least 24 months and cRORA in at least one eye, regardless of neovascular AMD being present, were included. SD-OCT and fundus autofluorescence (FAF) evaluations were performed according to a standardized protocol. The cRORA area ER, the cRORA square root area ER, the FAF GA area, and the condition of the outer retina (inner-/outer-segment [IS/OS] line and external limiting membrane [ELM] disruption scores) were determined. RESULTS 204 eyes of 129 patients were included. Mean follow-up time was 4.2 ± 2.2 (range 2-10) years. 109 of 204 (53.4%) eyes were classified as MNV-associated GA in AMD (initially or during follow-up); 95 of 204 (46.6%) eyes were classified as pure GA in AMD. The primary lesion was unifocal in 146 (72%) eyes and multifocal in 58 (28%) eyes. A strong correlation was observed between the area of cRORA (SD-OCT) and the FAF GA area (r = 0.924; p < 0.001). Mean ER was 1.44 ± 1.2 mm2/year, mean square root ER 0.29 ± 0.19 mm/year. There was no significant difference in mean ER between eyes without (pure GA) and with intravitreal anti-VEGF injections (MNV-associated GA) (0.30 ± 0.19 mm/year vs. 0.28 ± 0.20 mm/year; p = 0.466). Eyes with multifocal atrophy pattern at baseline had a significantly higher mean ER compared to eyes with unifocal pattern (0.34 ± 0.19 mm/year vs. 0.27 ± 1.19 mm/year; p = 0.008). There were moderate significant correlations between ELM and IS/OS disruption scores and visual acuity at baseline, 5 and 7 years (all r values ca. -0.5; p < 0.001). In multivariate regression analysis, a multifocal cRORA pattern at baseline (p = 0.022) and a smaller baseline lesion size (p = 0.036) were associated with a higher mean ER. CONCLUSION SD-OCT-evaluated cRORA area might serve as a GA parameter comparable to traditional FAF measurement in clinical routine. The dispersion pattern and baseline lesion size might be predictors of ER, whereas anti-VEGF treatment seems not to be associated with ER.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Cedro
- Vista Augenklinik Binningen, Binningen, Switzerland
| | - Laura Hoffmann
- Vista Augenklinik Binningen, Binningen, Switzerland
- Department of Ophthalmology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Katja Hatz
- Vista Augenklinik Binningen, Binningen, Switzerland
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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28
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Guymer RH, Campbell TG. Age-related macular degeneration. Lancet 2023; 401:1459-1472. [PMID: 36996856 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(22)02609-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 04/01/2023]
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration is an increasingly important public health issue due to ageing populations and increased longevity. Age-related macular degeneration affects individuals older than 55 years and threatens high-acuity central vision required for important tasks such as reading, driving, and recognising faces. Advances in retinal imaging have identified biomarkers of progression to late age-related macular degeneration. New treatments for neovascular age-related macular degeneration offer potentially longer-lasting effects, and progress is being made towards a treatment for atrophic late age-related macular degeneration. An effective intervention to slow progression in the earlier stages of disease, or to prevent late age-related macular degeneration development remains elusive, and our understanding of underlying mechanistic pathways continues to evolve.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robyn H Guymer
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, East Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Department of Surgery (Ophthalmology), The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Thomas G Campbell
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, East Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Department of Surgery (Ophthalmology), The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Department of Ophthalmology, Sunshine Coast University Hospital, Sunshine Coast, QLD, Australia.
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29
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Khan H, Khan H, Aziz AA, Ewing T, Khanani AM. How could gene therapy change the way we treat age-related macular degeneration? EXPERT REVIEW OF OPHTHALMOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/17469899.2022.2147927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Huma Khan
- Sierra Eye Associates, 950 Ryland Street, Reno, NV, USA
| | - Hannah Khan
- University of Nevada, School of Medicine, 1664 Virginia Street, Reno, NV, USA
| | - Aamir A. Aziz
- University of Nevada, School of Medicine, 1664 Virginia Street, Reno, NV, USA
| | - Tyler Ewing
- Sierra Eye Associates, 950 Ryland Street, Reno, NV, USA
| | - Arshad M. Khanani
- Sierra Eye Associates, 950 Ryland Street, Reno, NV, USA
- University of Nevada, School of Medicine, 1664 Virginia Street, Reno, NV, USA
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Stradiotto E, Allegrini D, Fossati G, Raimondi R, Sorrentino T, Tripepi D, Barone G, Inforzato A, Romano MR. Genetic Aspects of Age-Related Macular Degeneration and Their Therapeutic Potential. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:13280. [PMID: 36362067 PMCID: PMC9653831 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232113280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a complex and multifactorial disease, resulting from the interaction of environmental and genetic factors. The continuous discovery of associations between genetic polymorphisms and AMD gives reason for the pivotal role attributed to the genetic component to its development. In that light, genetic tests and polygenic scores have been created to predict the risk of development and response to therapy. Still, none of them have yet been validated. Furthermore, there is no evidence from a clinical trial that the determination of the individual genetic structure can improve treatment outcomes. In this comprehensive review, we summarize the polymorphisms of the main pathogenetic ways involved in AMD development to identify which of them constitutes a potential therapeutic target. As complement overactivation plays a major role, the modulation of targeted complement proteins seems to be a promising therapeutic approach. Herein, we summarize the complement-modulating molecules now undergoing clinical trials, enlightening those in an advanced phase of trial. Gene therapy is a potential innovative one-time treatment, and its relevance is quickly evolving in the field of retinal diseases. We describe the state of the art of gene therapies now undergoing clinical trials both in the field of complement-suppressors and that of anti-VEGF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Stradiotto
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Via Rita Levi Montalcini 4, Pieve Emanuele, 20072 Milan, Italy
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye Unit Humanitas Gavazzeni-Castelli, Via Mazzini 11, 24128 Bergamo, Italy
| | - Davide Allegrini
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye Unit Humanitas Gavazzeni-Castelli, Via Mazzini 11, 24128 Bergamo, Italy
| | - Giovanni Fossati
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Via Rita Levi Montalcini 4, Pieve Emanuele, 20072 Milan, Italy
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye Unit Humanitas Gavazzeni-Castelli, Via Mazzini 11, 24128 Bergamo, Italy
| | - Raffaele Raimondi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Via Rita Levi Montalcini 4, Pieve Emanuele, 20072 Milan, Italy
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye Unit Humanitas Gavazzeni-Castelli, Via Mazzini 11, 24128 Bergamo, Italy
| | - Tania Sorrentino
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Via Rita Levi Montalcini 4, Pieve Emanuele, 20072 Milan, Italy
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye Unit Humanitas Gavazzeni-Castelli, Via Mazzini 11, 24128 Bergamo, Italy
| | - Domenico Tripepi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Via Rita Levi Montalcini 4, Pieve Emanuele, 20072 Milan, Italy
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye Unit Humanitas Gavazzeni-Castelli, Via Mazzini 11, 24128 Bergamo, Italy
| | - Gianmaria Barone
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Via Rita Levi Montalcini 4, Pieve Emanuele, 20072 Milan, Italy
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye Unit Humanitas Gavazzeni-Castelli, Via Mazzini 11, 24128 Bergamo, Italy
| | - Antonio Inforzato
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Via Rita Levi Montalcini 4, Pieve Emanuele, 20072 Milan, Italy
- IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Via Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano-Milan, Italy
| | - Mario R. Romano
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Via Rita Levi Montalcini 4, Pieve Emanuele, 20072 Milan, Italy
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye Unit Humanitas Gavazzeni-Castelli, Via Mazzini 11, 24128 Bergamo, Italy
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Ocular Drug Delivery: Advancements and Innovations. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14091931. [PMID: 36145679 PMCID: PMC9506479 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14091931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Ocular drug delivery has been significantly advanced for not only pharmaceutical compounds, such as steroids, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, immune modulators, antibiotics, and so forth, but also for the rapidly progressed gene therapy products. For conventional non-gene therapy drugs, appropriate surgical approaches and releasing systems are the main deliberation to achieve adequate treatment outcomes, whereas the scope of “drug delivery” for gene therapy drugs further expands to transgene construct optimization, vector selection, and vector engineering. The eye is the particularly well-suited organ as the gene therapy target, owing to multiple advantages. In this review, we will delve into three main aspects of ocular drug delivery for both conventional drugs and adeno-associated virus (AAV)-based gene therapy products: (1) the development of AAV vector systems for ocular gene therapy, (2) the innovative carriers of medication, and (3) administration routes progression.
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Kovacs KD, Ciulla TA, Kiss S. Advancements in ocular gene therapy delivery: vectors and subretinal, intravitreal, and suprachoroidal techniques. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2022; 22:1193-1208. [PMID: 36062410 DOI: 10.1080/14712598.2022.2121646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION : Ocular gene therapy represents fertile ground for rapid innovation, with ever-expanding therapeutic strategies, molecular targets, and indications. AREAS COVERED : Potential indications for ocular gene therapy have classically focused on inherited retinal disease (IRD), but more recently include acquired retinal diseases, such as neovascular age-related macular degeneration, geographic atrophy and diabetic retinopathy. Ocular gene therapy strategies have proliferated recently, and include gene augmentation, gene inactivation, gene editing, RNA modulation, and gene-independent gene augmentation. Viral vector therapeutic constructs include adeno-associated virus and lentivirus and continue to evolve through directed evolution and rationale design. Ocular gene therapy administration techniques have expanded beyond pars plana vitrectomy with subretinal injection to intravitreal injection and suprachoroidal injection. EXPERT OPINION : The success of treatment for IRD, paired with the promise of clinical research in acquired retinal diseases and in administration techniques, has raised the possibility of in-office gene therapy for common retinal disorders within the next five to ten years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle D Kovacs
- Department of Ophthalmology, Retina Service, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Szilárd Kiss
- Department of Ophthalmology, Retina Service, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
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33
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Kularatne RN, Crist RM, Stern ST. The Future of Tissue-Targeted Lipid Nanoparticle-Mediated Nucleic Acid Delivery. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15070897. [PMID: 35890195 PMCID: PMC9322927 DOI: 10.3390/ph15070897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Revised: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The earliest example of in vivo expression of exogenous mRNA is by direct intramuscular injection in mice without the aid of a delivery vehicle. The current state of the art for therapeutic nucleic acid delivery is lipid nanoparticles (LNP), which are composed of cholesterol, a helper lipid, a PEGylated lipid and an ionizable amine-containing lipid. The liver is the primary organ of LNP accumulation following intravenous administration and is also observed to varying degrees following intramuscular and subcutaneous routes. Delivery of nucleic acid to hepatocytes by LNP has therapeutic potential, but there are many disease indications that would benefit from non-hepatic LNP tissue and cell population targeting, such as cancer, and neurological, cardiovascular and infectious diseases. This review will concentrate on the current efforts to develop the next generation of tissue-targeted LNP constructs for therapeutic nucleic acids.
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Xi Z, Öztürk BE, Johnson ME, Turunç S, Stauffer WR, Byrne LC. Quantitative single-cell transcriptome-based ranking of engineered AAVs in human retinal explants. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2022; 25:476-489. [PMID: 35615708 PMCID: PMC9118357 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2022.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Gene therapy is a rapidly developing field, and adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) are a leading viral-vector candidate for therapeutic gene delivery. Newly engineered AAVs with improved abilities are now entering the clinic. It has proven challenging, however, to predict the translational potential of gene therapies developed in animal models due to cross-species differences. Human retinal explants are the only available model of fully developed human retinal tissue and are thus important for the validation of candidate AAV vectors. In this study, we evaluated 18 wild-type and engineered AAV capsids in human retinal explants using a recently developed single-cell RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) AAV engineering pipeline (scAAVengr). Human retinal explants retained the same major cell types as fresh retina, with similar expression of cell-specific markers except for a photoreceptor population with altered expression of photoreceptor-specific genes. The efficiency and tropism of AAVs in human explants were quantified with single-cell resolution. The top-performing serotypes, K91, K912, and 7m8, were further validated in non-human primate and human retinal explants. Together, this study provides detailed information about the transcriptome profiles of retinal explants and quantifies the infectivity of leading AAV serotypes in human retina, accelerating the translation of retinal gene therapies to the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhouhuan Xi
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,Eye Center of Xiangya Hospital, Hunan Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Bilge E Öztürk
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Molly E Johnson
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Serhan Turunç
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | | | - Leah C Byrne
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,Department of Neurobiology, University of Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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Yan R, Zhao J, Zhang X, Wang W, Jiang Z. Association Between Aspirin Usage and Age-Related Macular Degeneration: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:824745. [PMID: 35401184 PMCID: PMC8990128 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.824745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: To investigate the association between long-term use of aspirin and age-related macular degeneration (AMD).Methods: An updated systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Medline, Cochrane Library, and embase from conception to February 26, 2021, without any language restriction. All studies that evaluated the relationship between long-term aspirin use and AMD were included.Results: In the current study, 16 articles were pooled. Overall, no significant association was observed (estimate ratio = 1.108, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.886–1.385). When the subgroups were evaluated according to various standards, aspirin use was significantly correlated with AMD in studies with volunteer participants (estimate ratio = 0.899, 95% CI: 0.830–0.974, p < 0.01), studies followed up for >10 years (estimate ratio = 2.206, 95% CI: 2.124–2.292, p < 0.01), duration of aspirin use >10 years (estimate ratio = 2.323, 95% CI: 2.234–2.416, p < 0.01), and cohort studies (estimate ratio = 1.961, 95% CI: 1.893–2.032, p < 0.01).Conclusion: Therefore, the association of aspirin and AMD can be demonstrated with a long-term follow-up or aspirin use, appropriate study design and participant source. The findings in our study might provide practical information on intervention strategies.
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