1
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Yao R, Xie C, Xia X. Recent progress in mRNA cancer vaccines. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2024; 20:2307187. [PMID: 38282471 PMCID: PMC10826636 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2024.2307187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 01/30/2024] Open
Abstract
The research and development of messenger RNA (mRNA) cancer vaccines have gradually overcome numerous challenges through the application of personalized cancer antigens, structural optimization of mRNA, and the development of alternative RNA-based vectors and efficient targeted delivery vectors. Clinical trials are currently underway for various cancer vaccines that encode tumor-associated antigens (TAAs), tumor-specific antigens (TSAs), or immunomodulators. In this paper, we summarize the optimization of mRNA and the emergence of RNA-based expression vectors in cancer vaccines. We begin by reviewing the advancement and utilization of state-of-the-art targeted lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), followed by presenting the primary classifications and clinical applications of mRNA cancer vaccines. Collectively, mRNA vaccines are emerging as a central focus in cancer immunotherapy, offering the potential to address multiple challenges in cancer treatment, either as standalone therapies or in combination with current cancer treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruhui Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chunyuan Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaojun Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
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2
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Bae SH, Yoo S, Lee J, Park HJ, Kwon SP, Jin H, Park SI, Lee YS, Bang YJ, Roh G, Lee S, Youn SB, Kim IW, Oh HR, El-Damasy AK, Keum G, Kim H, Youn H, Nam JH, Bang EK. A lipid nanoparticle platform incorporating trehalose glycolipid for exceptional mRNA vaccine safety. Bioact Mater 2024; 38:486-498. [PMID: 38779592 PMCID: PMC11109743 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2024.05.012] [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: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The rapid development of messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines formulated with lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) has contributed to control of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, mRNA vaccines have raised concerns about their potential toxicity and clinical safety, including side effects, such as myocarditis, anaphylaxis, and pericarditis. In this study, we investigated the potential of trehalose glycolipids-containing LNP (LNP S050L) to reduce the risks associated with ionizable lipids. Trehalose glycolipids can form hydrogen bonds with polar biomolecules, allowing the formation of a stable LNP structure by replacing half of the ionizable lipids. The efficacy and safety of LNP S050L were evaluated by encapsulating the mRNA encoding the luciferase reporter gene and measuring gene expression and organ toxicity, respectively. Furthermore, mice immunized with an LNP S050L-formulated mRNA vaccine expressing influenza hemagglutinin exhibited a significant reduction in organ toxicity, including in the heart, spleen, and liver, while sustaining gene expression and immune efficiency, compared to conventional LNPs (Con-LNPs). Our findings suggest that LNP S050L, a trehalose glycolipid-based LNP, could facilitate the development of safe mRNA vaccines with improved clinical safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seo-Hyeon Bae
- Department of Medical and Biological Sciences, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Bucheon, Republic of Korea
- BK Four Department of Biotechnology, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Bucheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Soyeon Yoo
- Center for Brain Technology, Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Jisun Lee
- Department of Medical and Biological Sciences, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Bucheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyo-Jung Park
- Department of Medical and Biological Sciences, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Bucheon, Republic of Korea
- BK Four Department of Biotechnology, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Bucheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Pil Kwon
- Center for Brain Technology, Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Harin Jin
- Center for Advanced Biomolecular Recognition, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
- Division of Bio-Medical Science and Technology, KIST School, University of Science and Technology (UST), Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang-In Park
- SML Biopharm, Gwangmyeong, 14353, Republic of Korea
| | - Yu-Sun Lee
- Department of Medical and Biological Sciences, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Bucheon, Republic of Korea
- BK Four Department of Biotechnology, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Bucheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoo-Jin Bang
- Department of Medical and Biological Sciences, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Bucheon, Republic of Korea
- BK Four Department of Biotechnology, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Bucheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Gahyun Roh
- Department of Medical and Biological Sciences, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Bucheon, Republic of Korea
- BK Four Department of Biotechnology, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Bucheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Seonghyun Lee
- Department of Medical and Biological Sciences, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Bucheon, Republic of Korea
- BK Four Department of Biotechnology, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Bucheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Sue Bean Youn
- Department of Medical and Biological Sciences, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Bucheon, Republic of Korea
- BK Four Department of Biotechnology, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Bucheon, Republic of Korea
| | - In Woo Kim
- Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Ho Rim Oh
- Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Ashraf K. El-Damasy
- Center for Brain Technology, Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Gyochang Keum
- Center for Brain Technology, Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Hojun Kim
- Center for Advanced Biomolecular Recognition, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
- Division of Bio-Medical Science and Technology, KIST School, University of Science and Technology (UST), Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyewon Youn
- Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Cancer Imaging Center, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Hwan Nam
- Department of Medical and Biological Sciences, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Bucheon, Republic of Korea
- BK Four Department of Biotechnology, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Bucheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun-Kyoung Bang
- Center for Brain Technology, Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
- KHU-KIST Department of Converging Science and Technology, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea
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3
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Jung O, Jung HY, Thuy LT, Choi M, Kim S, Jeon HG, Yang J, Kim SM, Kim TD, Lee E, Kim Y, Choi JS. Modulating Lipid Nanoparticles with Histidinamide-Conjugated Cholesterol for Improved Intracellular Delivery of mRNA. Adv Healthc Mater 2024; 13:e2303857. [PMID: 38344923 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202303857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2024] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
Recently, mRNA-based therapeutics, including vaccines, have gained significant attention in the field of gene therapy for treating various diseases. Among the various mRNA delivery vehicles, lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) have emerged as promising vehicles for packaging and delivering mRNA with low immunogenicity. However, while mRNA delivery has several advantages, the delivery efficiency and stability of LNPs remain challenging for mRNA therapy. In this study, an ionizable helper cholesterol analog, 3β[L-histidinamide-carbamoyl] cholesterol (Hchol) lipid is developed and incorporated into LNPs instead of cholesterol to enhance the LNP potency. The pKa values of the Hchol-LNPs are ≈6.03 and 6.61 in MC3- and SM102-based lipid formulations. Notably, the Hchol-LNPs significantly improve the delivery efficiency by enhancing the endosomal escape of mRNA. Additionally, the Hchol-LNPs are more effective in a red blood cell hemolysis at pH 5.5, indicating a synergistic effect of the protonated imidazole groups of Hchol and cholesterol on endosomal membrane destabilization. Furthermore, mRNA delivery is substantially enhanced in mice treated with Hchol-LNPs. Importantly, LNP-encapsulated SARS-CoV-2 spike mRNA vaccinations induce potent antigen-specific antibodies against SARS-CoV-2. Overall, incorporating Hchol into LNP formulations enables efficient endosomal escape and stability, leading to an mRNA delivery vehicle with a higher delivery efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Onesun Jung
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Natural Sciences, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye-Youn Jung
- Infectious Disease Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Le Thi Thuy
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Natural Sciences, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Minyoung Choi
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Natural Sciences, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Seongyeon Kim
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Natural Sciences, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Hae-Geun Jeon
- Infectious Disease Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Jihyun Yang
- Infectious Disease Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Seok-Min Kim
- Immunotherapy Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae-Don Kim
- Immunotherapy Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
- Bioscience Major, KRIBB School, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, 34113, Republic of Korea
| | - Eunjung Lee
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Natural Sciences, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoonkyung Kim
- Infectious Disease Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
- Bioscience Major, KRIBB School, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, 34113, Republic of Korea
| | - Joon Sig Choi
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Natural Sciences, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea
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4
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van Os WL, Wielaert L, Alter C, Davidović D, Šachl R, Kock T, González UU, Arias-Alpizar G, Vigario FL, Knol RA, Kuster R, Romeijn S, Mora NL, Detampel P, Hof M, Huwyler J, Kros A. Lipid conjugate dissociation analysis improves the in vivo understanding of lipid-based nanomedicine. J Control Release 2024; 371:85-100. [PMID: 38782063 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.05.034] [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: 03/17/2024] [Revised: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Lipid conjugates have advanced the field of lipid-based nanomedicine by promoting active-targeting (ligand, peptide, antibody), stability (PEGylation), controlled release (lipoid prodrug), and probe-based tracking (fluorophore). Recent findings indicate lipid conjugates dissociating from nanomedicine upon encountering a biological environment. Yet, implications for (pre)clinical outcomes remain unclear. In this study, using the zebrafish model (Danio rerio), we investigated the fate of liposome-incorporated lipid fluorophore conjugates (LFCs) after intravenous (IV) administration. LFCs having a bilayer mismatch and relatively polar fluorophore revealed counter-predictive outcomes for Caelyx/Doxil (clearance vs. circulating) and AmBisome-like liposomes (scavenger endothelial cell vs. macrophage uptake). Findings on LFC (mis)match for Caelyx/Doxil-like liposomes were supported by translational intravital imaging studies in mice. Importantly, contradicting observations suggest to originate from LFC dissociation in vivo, which was investigated by Asymmetric Flow Field-Flow Fractionation (AF4) upon liposome-serum incubation in situ. Our data suggests that LFCs matching with the liposome bilayer composition - that did not dissociate upon serum incubation - revealed improved predictive outcomes for liposome biodistribution profiles. Altogether, this study highlights the critical importance of fatty acid tail length and headgroup moiety when selecting lipid conjugates for lipid-based nanomedicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Winant L van Os
- Department of Supramolecular and Biomaterials Chemistry, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Laura Wielaert
- Department of Supramolecular and Biomaterials Chemistry, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Claudio Alter
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Science, University of Basel, Switzerland
| | - David Davidović
- J. Heyrovský Institute of Physical Chemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Radek Šachl
- J. Heyrovský Institute of Physical Chemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Thomas Kock
- Department of Supramolecular and Biomaterials Chemistry, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Urimare Ugueto González
- Department of Supramolecular and Biomaterials Chemistry, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Gabriela Arias-Alpizar
- Division of BioTherapeutics, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Fernando Lozano Vigario
- Division of BioTherapeutics, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Renzo A Knol
- Department of Supramolecular and Biomaterials Chemistry, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Rick Kuster
- Department of Supramolecular and Biomaterials Chemistry, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Stefan Romeijn
- Division of BioTherapeutics, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Nestor Lopez Mora
- J. Heyrovský Institute of Physical Chemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Pascal Detampel
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Science, University of Basel, Switzerland
| | - Martin Hof
- J. Heyrovský Institute of Physical Chemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jörg Huwyler
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Science, University of Basel, Switzerland
| | - Alexander Kros
- Department of Supramolecular and Biomaterials Chemistry, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands.
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5
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Fedorovskiy AG, Antropov DN, Dome AS, Puchkov PA, Makarova DM, Konopleva MV, Matveeva AM, Panova EA, Shmendel EV, Maslov MA, Dmitriev SE, Stepanov GA, Markov OV. Novel Efficient Lipid-Based Delivery Systems Enable a Delayed Uptake and Sustained Expression of mRNA in Human Cells and Mouse Tissues. Pharmaceutics 2024; 16:684. [PMID: 38794346 PMCID: PMC11125954 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16050684] [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: 04/18/2024] [Revised: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Over the past decade, mRNA-based therapy has displayed significant promise in a wide range of clinical applications. The most striking example of the leap in the development of mRNA technologies was the mass vaccination against COVID-19 during the pandemic. The emergence of large-scale technology and positive experience of mRNA immunization sparked the development of antiviral and anti-cancer mRNA vaccines as well as therapeutic mRNA agents for genetic and other diseases. To facilitate mRNA delivery, lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) have been successfully employed. However, the diverse use of mRNA therapeutic approaches requires the development of adaptable LNP delivery systems that can control the kinetics of mRNA uptake and expression in target cells. Here, we report effective mRNA delivery into cultured mammalian cells (HEK293T, HeLa, DC2.4) and living mouse muscle tissues by liposomes containing either 1,26-bis(cholest-5-en-3β-yloxycarbonylamino)-7,11,16,20-tetraazahexacosane tetrahydrochloride (2X3) or the newly applied 1,30-bis(cholest-5-en-3β-yloxycarbonylamino)-9,13,18,22-tetraaza-3,6,25,28-tetraoxatriacontane tetrahydrochloride (2X7) cationic lipids. Using end-point and real-time monitoring of Fluc mRNA expression, we showed that these LNPs exhibited an unusually delayed (of over 10 h in the case of the 2X7-based system) but had highly efficient and prolonged reporter activity in cells. Accordingly, both LNP formulations decorated with 1,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine-N-[amino(polyethylene glycol)-2000] (DSPE-PEG2000) provided efficient luciferase production in mice, peaking on day 3 after intramuscular injection. Notably, the bioluminescence was observed only at the site of injection in caudal thigh muscles, thereby demonstrating local expression of the model gene of interest. The developed mRNA delivery systems hold promise for prophylactic applications, where sustained synthesis of defensive proteins is required, and open doors to new possibilities in mRNA-based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Artem G. Fedorovskiy
- Belozersky Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Department of Materials Science, Faculty of Bioengineering and Bioinformatics, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119234 Moscow, Russia; (A.G.F.); (M.V.K.); (E.A.P.)
- Lomonosov Institute of Fine Chemical Technologies, MIREA-Russian Technological University, 119571 Moscow, Russia; (P.A.P.); (D.M.M.); (E.V.S.); (M.A.M.)
| | - Denis N. Antropov
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (D.N.A.); (A.S.D.); (A.M.M.); (G.A.S.)
| | - Anton S. Dome
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (D.N.A.); (A.S.D.); (A.M.M.); (G.A.S.)
| | - Pavel A. Puchkov
- Lomonosov Institute of Fine Chemical Technologies, MIREA-Russian Technological University, 119571 Moscow, Russia; (P.A.P.); (D.M.M.); (E.V.S.); (M.A.M.)
| | - Daria M. Makarova
- Lomonosov Institute of Fine Chemical Technologies, MIREA-Russian Technological University, 119571 Moscow, Russia; (P.A.P.); (D.M.M.); (E.V.S.); (M.A.M.)
| | - Maria V. Konopleva
- Belozersky Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Department of Materials Science, Faculty of Bioengineering and Bioinformatics, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119234 Moscow, Russia; (A.G.F.); (M.V.K.); (E.A.P.)
- Lomonosov Institute of Fine Chemical Technologies, MIREA-Russian Technological University, 119571 Moscow, Russia; (P.A.P.); (D.M.M.); (E.V.S.); (M.A.M.)
- Federal State Budget Institution “National Research Centre for Epidemiology and Microbiology Named after Honorary Academician N.F. Gamaleya” of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, 123098 Moscow, Russia
| | - Anastasiya M. Matveeva
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (D.N.A.); (A.S.D.); (A.M.M.); (G.A.S.)
| | - Eugenia A. Panova
- Belozersky Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Department of Materials Science, Faculty of Bioengineering and Bioinformatics, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119234 Moscow, Russia; (A.G.F.); (M.V.K.); (E.A.P.)
| | - Elena V. Shmendel
- Lomonosov Institute of Fine Chemical Technologies, MIREA-Russian Technological University, 119571 Moscow, Russia; (P.A.P.); (D.M.M.); (E.V.S.); (M.A.M.)
| | - Mikhail A. Maslov
- Lomonosov Institute of Fine Chemical Technologies, MIREA-Russian Technological University, 119571 Moscow, Russia; (P.A.P.); (D.M.M.); (E.V.S.); (M.A.M.)
| | - Sergey E. Dmitriev
- Belozersky Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Department of Materials Science, Faculty of Bioengineering and Bioinformatics, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119234 Moscow, Russia; (A.G.F.); (M.V.K.); (E.A.P.)
- Federal State Budget Institution “National Research Centre for Epidemiology and Microbiology Named after Honorary Academician N.F. Gamaleya” of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, 123098 Moscow, Russia
- Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, 141701 Dolgoprudny, Russia
| | - Grigory A. Stepanov
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (D.N.A.); (A.S.D.); (A.M.M.); (G.A.S.)
| | - Oleg V. Markov
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (D.N.A.); (A.S.D.); (A.M.M.); (G.A.S.)
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6
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Scherer D, Burger M, Leroux JC. Revival of Bioengineered Proteins as Carriers for Nucleic Acids. Bioconjug Chem 2024; 35:561-566. [PMID: 38621363 PMCID: PMC11099893 DOI: 10.1021/acs.bioconjchem.4c00079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- David Scherer
- Institute of Pharmaceutical
Sciences, Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich 8093, Switzerland
| | - Michael Burger
- Institute of Pharmaceutical
Sciences, Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich 8093, Switzerland
| | - Jean-Christophe Leroux
- Institute of Pharmaceutical
Sciences, Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich 8093, Switzerland
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7
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Eygeris Y, Henderson MI, Curtis AG, Jozić A, Stoddard J, Reynaga R, Chirco KR, Su GLN, Neuringer M, Lauer AK, Ryals RC, Sahay G. Preformed Vesicle Approach to LNP Manufacturing Enhances Retinal mRNA Delivery. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024:e2400815. [PMID: 38738752 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202400815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 04/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
Complete encapsulation of nucleic acids by lipid-based nanoparticles (LNPs) is often thought to be one of the main prerequisites for successful nucleic acid delivery, as the lipid environment protects mRNA from degradation by external nucleases and assists in initiating delivery processes. However, delivery of mRNA via a preformed vesicle approach (PFV-LNPs) defies this precondition. Unlike traditional LNPs, PFV-LNPs are formed via a solvent-free mixing process, leading to a superficial mRNA localization. While demonstrating low encapsulation efficiency in the RiboGreen assay, PFV-LNPs improved delivery of mRNA to the retina by up to 50% compared to the LNP analogs across several benchmark formulations, suggesting the utility of this approach regardless of the lipid composition. Successful mRNA and gene editors' delivery is observed in the retinal pigment epithelium and photoreceptors and validated in mice, non-human primates, and human retinal organoids. Deploying PFV-LNPs in gene editing experiments result in a similar extent of gene editing compared to analogous LNP (up to 3% on genomic level) in the Ai9 reporter mouse model; but, remarkably, retinal tolerability is significantly improved for PFV-LNP treatment. The study findings indicate that the LNP formulation process can greatly influence mRNA transfection and gene editing outcomes, improving LNP treatment safety without sacrificing efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yulia Eygeris
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, Portland, OR, 97201, USA
| | - Michael I Henderson
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, Portland, OR, 97201, USA
| | - Allison G Curtis
- Department of Ophthalmology, Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, 97201, USA
| | - Antony Jozić
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, Portland, OR, 97201, USA
| | - Jonathan Stoddard
- Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Beaverton, OR, 97006, USA
| | - Rene Reynaga
- Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Beaverton, OR, 97006, USA
| | - Kathleen R Chirco
- Department of Ophthalmology, Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, 97201, USA
| | - Grace Li-Na Su
- Department of Ophthalmology, Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, 97201, USA
| | - Martha Neuringer
- Department of Ophthalmology, Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, 97201, USA
- Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Beaverton, OR, 97006, USA
| | - Andreas K Lauer
- Department of Ophthalmology, Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, 97201, USA
- Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Beaverton, OR, 97006, USA
| | - Renee C Ryals
- Department of Ophthalmology, Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, 97201, USA
| | - Gaurav Sahay
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, Portland, OR, 97201, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, 97201, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, 97201, USA
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8
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Wu M, Hau PM, Li L, Tsang CM, Yang Y, Taghbalout A, Chung GTY, Hui SY, Tang WC, Jillette N, Zhu JJ, Lee HHY, Kong EL, Chan MSA, Chan JYK, Ma BBY, Chen MR, Lee C, To KF, Cheng AW, Lo KW. Synthetic BZLF1-targeted transcriptional activator for efficient lytic induction therapy against EBV-associated epithelial cancers. Nat Commun 2024; 15:3729. [PMID: 38702330 PMCID: PMC11068728 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-48031-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024] Open
Abstract
The unique virus-cell interaction in Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-associated malignancies implies targeting the viral latent-lytic switch is a promising therapeutic strategy. However, the lack of specific and efficient therapeutic agents to induce lytic cycle in these cancers is a major challenge facing clinical implementation. We develop a synthetic transcriptional activator that specifically activates endogenous BZLF1 and efficiently induces lytic reactivation in EBV-positive cancer cells. A lipid nanoparticle encapsulating nucleoside-modified mRNA which encodes a BZLF1-specific transcriptional activator (mTZ3-LNP) is synthesized for EBV-targeted therapy. Compared with conventional chemical inducers, mTZ3-LNP more efficiently activates EBV lytic gene expression in EBV-associated epithelial cancers. Here we show the potency and safety of treatment with mTZ3-LNP to suppress tumor growth in EBV-positive cancer models. The combination of mTZ3-LNP and ganciclovir yields highly selective cytotoxic effects of mRNA-based lytic induction therapy against EBV-positive tumor cells, indicating the potential of mRNA nanomedicine in the treatment of EBV-associated epithelial cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Man Wu
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, Sir YK Pao Centre for Cancer, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Pok Man Hau
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Linxian Li
- Ming Wai Lau Centre for Reparative Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Department of Surgery, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Center for Neuromusculoskeletal Restorative Medicine, Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Chi Man Tsang
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, Sir YK Pao Centre for Cancer, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yike Yang
- Ming Wai Lau Centre for Reparative Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
- College of Chemistry and Green Catalysis Center, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Aziz Taghbalout
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT, 06032, USA
| | - Grace Tin-Yun Chung
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Shin Yee Hui
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Wing Chung Tang
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | | | - Jacqueline Jufen Zhu
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT, 06032, USA
- School of Biological and Health Systems Engineering, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, 85281, USA
| | - Horace Hok Yeung Lee
- Ming Wai Lau Centre for Reparative Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ee Ling Kong
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Melissa Sue Ann Chan
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Jason Ying Kuen Chan
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Brigette Buig Yue Ma
- Department of Clinical Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, Charlie Lee Precision Immuno-oncology program, Sir Y.K. Pao Centre for Cancer, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Mei-Ru Chen
- Graduate Institute and Department of Microbiology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 100233, Taiwan
| | - Charles Lee
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT, 06032, USA
| | - Ka Fai To
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, Sir YK Pao Centre for Cancer, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Albert Wu Cheng
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT, 06032, USA.
- School of Biological and Health Systems Engineering, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, 85281, USA.
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT, 06030, USA.
- Institute for Systems Genomics, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT, 06030, USA.
- The Jackson Laboratory Cancer Center, Bar Harbor, ME, 04609, USA.
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
- Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and Reconstruction, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
| | - Kwok-Wai Lo
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, Sir YK Pao Centre for Cancer, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
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9
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Desai N, Chavda V, Singh TRR, Thorat ND, Vora LK. Cancer Nanovaccines: Nanomaterials and Clinical Perspectives. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024:e2401631. [PMID: 38693099 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202401631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2024] [Revised: 03/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
Cancer nanovaccines represent a promising frontier in cancer immunotherapy, utilizing nanotechnology to augment traditional vaccine efficacy. This review comprehensively examines the current state-of-the-art in cancer nanovaccine development, elucidating innovative strategies and technologies employed in their design. It explores both preclinical and clinical advancements, emphasizing key studies demonstrating their potential to elicit robust anti-tumor immune responses. The study encompasses various facets, including integrating biomaterial-based nanocarriers for antigen delivery, adjuvant selection, and the impact of nanoscale properties on vaccine performance. Detailed insights into the complex interplay between the tumor microenvironment and nanovaccine responses are provided, highlighting challenges and opportunities in optimizing therapeutic outcomes. Additionally, the study presents a thorough analysis of ongoing clinical trials, presenting a snapshot of the current clinical landscape. By curating the latest scientific findings and clinical developments, this study aims to serve as a comprehensive resource for researchers and clinicians engaged in advancing cancer immunotherapy. Integrating nanotechnology into vaccine design holds immense promise for revolutionizing cancer treatment paradigms, and this review provides a timely update on the evolving landscape of cancer nanovaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nimeet Desai
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Telangana, 502285, India
| | - Vivek Chavda
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, L M College of Pharmacy, Ahmedabad, 380009, India
| | | | - Nanasaheb D Thorat
- Limerick Digital Cancer Research Centre (LDCRC), University of Limerick, Castletroy, Limerick, V94T9PX, Ireland
- Department of Physics, Bernal Institute, Castletroy, Limerick, V94T9PX, Ireland
- Nuffield Department of Women's & Reproductive Health, Medical Science Division, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Lalitkumar K Vora
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK
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10
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Shen G, Liu J, Yang H, Xie N, Yang Y. mRNA therapies: Pioneering a new era in rare genetic disease treatment. J Control Release 2024; 369:696-721. [PMID: 38580137 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.03.056] [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: 11/04/2023] [Revised: 03/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/30/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024]
Abstract
Rare genetic diseases, often referred to as orphan diseases due to their low prevalence and limited treatment options, have long posed significant challenges to our medical system. In recent years, Messenger RNA (mRNA) therapy has emerged as a highly promising treatment approach for various diseases caused by genetic mutations. Chemically modified mRNA is introduced into cells using carriers like lipid-based nanoparticles (LNPs), producing functional proteins that compensate for genetic deficiencies. Given the advantages of precise dosing, biocompatibility, transient expression, and minimal risk of genomic integration, mRNA therapies can safely and effectively correct genetic defects in rare diseases and improve symptoms. Currently, dozens of mRNA drugs targeting rare diseases are undergoing clinical trials. This comprehensive review summarizes the progress of mRNA therapy in treating rare genetic diseases. It introduces the development, molecular design, and delivery systems of mRNA therapy, highlighting their research progress in rare genetic diseases based on protein replacement and gene editing. The review also summarizes research progress in various rare disease models and clinical trials. Additionally, it discusses the challenges and future prospects of mRNA therapy. Researchers are encouraged to join this field and collaborate to advance the clinical translation of mRNA therapy, bringing hope to patients with rare genetic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guobo Shen
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Jian Liu
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Hanmei Yang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Na Xie
- West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
| | - Yang Yang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
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11
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Nogueira SS, Samaridou E, Simon J, Frank S, Beck-Broichsitter M, Mehta A. Analytical techniques for the characterization of nanoparticles for mRNA delivery. Eur J Pharm Biopharm 2024; 198:114235. [PMID: 38401742 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2024.114235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
Nanotechnology-assisted RNA delivery has gotten a tremendous boost over the last decade and made a significant impact in the development of life-changing vaccines and therapeutics. With increasing numbers of emerging lipid- and polymer-based RNA nanoparticles progressing towards the clinic, it has become apparent that the safety and efficacy of these medications depend on the comprehensive understanding of their critical quality attributes (CQAs). However, despite the rapid advancements in the field, the identification and reliable quantification of CQAs remain a significant challenge. To support these efforts, this review aims to summarize the present knowledge on CQAs based on the regulatory guidelines and to provide insights into the available analytical characterization techniques for RNA-loaded nanoparticles. In this context, routine and emerging analytical techniques are categorized and discussed, focusing on the operation principle, strengths, and potential limitations. Furthermore, the importance of complementary and orthogonal techniques for the measurement of CQAs is discussed in order to ensure the quality and consistency of analytical methods used, and address potential technique-based differences.
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12
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Nele V, Campani V, Alia Moosavian S, De Rosa G. Lipid nanoparticles for RNA delivery: Self-assembling vs driven-assembling strategies. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2024; 208:115291. [PMID: 38514018 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2024.115291] [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: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
Among non-viral vectors, lipid nanovectors are considered the gold standard for the delivery of RNA therapeutics. The success of lipid nanoparticles for RNA delivery, with three products approved for human use, has stimulated further investigation into RNA therapeutics for different pathologies. This requires decoding the pathological intracellular processes and tailoring the delivery system to the target tissue and cells. The complexity of the lipid nanovectors morphology originates from the assembling of the lipidic components, which can be elicited by various methods able to drive the formation of nanoparticles with the desired organization. In other cases, pre-formed nanoparticles can be mixed with RNA to induce self-assembly and structural reorganization into RNA-loaded nanoparticles. In this review, the most relevant lipid nanovectors and their potentialities for RNA delivery are described on the basis of the assembling mechanism and of the particle architecture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Nele
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Via D. Montesano, 49 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Virginia Campani
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Via D. Montesano, 49 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Seyedeh Alia Moosavian
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Via D. Montesano, 49 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe De Rosa
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Via D. Montesano, 49 80131 Naples, Italy.
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13
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Pawar S, Pingale P, Garkal A, Osmani RAM, Gajbhiye K, Kulkarni M, Pardeshi K, Mehta T, Rajput A. Unlocking the potential of nanocarrier-mediated mRNA delivery across diverse biomedical frontiers: A comprehensive review. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 267:131139. [PMID: 38615863 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.131139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
Messenger RNA (mRNA) has gained marvelous attention for managing and preventing various conditions like cancer, Alzheimer's, infectious diseases, etc. Due to the quick development and success of the COVID-19 mRNA-based vaccines, mRNA has recently grown in prominence. A lot of products are in clinical trials and some are already FDA-approved. However, still improvements in line of optimizing stability and delivery, reducing immunogenicity, increasing efficiency, expanding therapeutic applications, scalability and manufacturing, and long-term safety monitoring are needed. The delivery of mRNA via a nanocarrier system gives a synergistic outcome for managing chronic and complicated conditions. The modified nanocarrier-loaded mRNA has excellent potential as a therapeutic strategy. This emerging platform covers a wide range of diseases, recently, several clinical studies are ongoing and numerous publications are coming out every year. Still, many unexplained physical, biological, and technical problems of mRNA for safer human consumption. These complications were addressed with various nanocarrier formulations. This review systematically summarizes the solved problems and applications of nanocarrier-based mRNA delivery. The modified nanocarrier mRNA meaningfully improved mRNA stability and abridged its immunogenicity issues. Furthermore, several strategies were discussed that can be an effective solution in the future for managing complicated diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Smita Pawar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Institute of Chemical Technology, N.P. Marg, Matunga (E), Mumbai 400019, Maharashtra, India
| | - Prashant Pingale
- Department of Pharmaceutics, GES's Sir Dr. M. S. Gosavi College of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Nashik 422005, Maharashtra, India
| | - Atul Garkal
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Institute of Pharmacy, Nirma University, Ahmedabad 382481, Gujarat, India; Center for Nanomedicine at the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - Riyaz Ali M Osmani
- Department of Pharmaceutics, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru 570015, Karnataka, India
| | - Kavita Gajbhiye
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Bharti Vidyapeeth Deemed University, Poona College of Pharmacy, Erandwane, Pune 411038, Maharashtra, India
| | - Madhur Kulkarni
- SCES's Indira College of Pharmacy, New Pune Mumbai Highway, Tathwade 411033, Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | - Krutika Pardeshi
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sandip University, Nashik 422213, Maharashtra, India
| | - Tejal Mehta
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Institute of Pharmacy, Nirma University, Ahmedabad 382481, Gujarat, India
| | - Amarjitsing Rajput
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Bharti Vidyapeeth Deemed University, Poona College of Pharmacy, Erandwane, Pune 411038, Maharashtra, India.
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14
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Vaidya A, Parande D, Khadse N, Vargas-Montoya N, Agarwal V, Ortiz C, Ellis G, Kaushal N, Sarode A, Karve S, DeRosa F. Analytical Characterization of Heterogeneities in mRNA-Lipid Nanoparticles Using Sucrose Density Gradient Ultracentrifugation. Anal Chem 2024; 96:5570-5579. [PMID: 38529613 PMCID: PMC11007679 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.4c00031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
Rational design and robust formulation processes are critical for optimal delivery of mRNA by lipid nanoparticles (LNPs). Varying degrees of heterogeneity in mRNA-LNPs can affect their biophysical and functional properties. Given the profound complexity of mRNA-LNPs, it is critical to develop comprehensive and orthogonal analytical techniques for a better understanding of these formulations. To this end, we developed a robust ultracentrifugation method for density-based separation of subpopulations of mRNA-LNPs. Four LNP formulations encapsulating human erythropoietin (hEPO) with varying functionalities were synthesized using two ionizable lipids, A and B, and two helper lipids, 1,2-dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine (DOPE) and 1,2-dierucoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine (DEPE), along with cholesterol and DMG-PEG-2K. Upon ultracentrifugation on a sucrose gradient, a distinct pattern of "fractions" was observed across the gradient, from the less dense topmost fraction to the increasingly denser bottom fractions, which were harvested for comprehensive analyses. Parent LNPs, A-DOPE and B-DOPE, were resolved into three density-based fractions, each differing significantly in the hEPO expression following intravenous and intramuscular routes of administration. Parent B-DEPE LNPs resolved into two density-based fractions, with most of the payload and lipid content being attributed to the topmost fraction compared to the lower one, indicating some degree of heterogeneity, while parent A-DEPE LNPs showed remarkable homogeneity, as indicated by comparable in vivo potency, lipid numbers, and particle count among the three density-based fractions. This study is the first to demonstrate the application of density gradient-based ultracentrifugation (DGC) for a head-to-head comparison of heterogeneity as a function of biological performance and biophysical characteristics of parent mRNA-LNPs and their subpopulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amita Vaidya
- mRNA Center of Excellence,
Sanofi, Waltham, Massachusetts 02451, United States
| | - Dipen Parande
- mRNA Center of Excellence,
Sanofi, Waltham, Massachusetts 02451, United States
| | - Nikita Khadse
- mRNA Center of Excellence,
Sanofi, Waltham, Massachusetts 02451, United States
| | | | - Vikram Agarwal
- mRNA Center of Excellence,
Sanofi, Waltham, Massachusetts 02451, United States
| | - Christian Ortiz
- mRNA Center of Excellence,
Sanofi, Waltham, Massachusetts 02451, United States
| | - Gordon Ellis
- mRNA Center of Excellence,
Sanofi, Waltham, Massachusetts 02451, United States
| | - Neha Kaushal
- mRNA Center of Excellence,
Sanofi, Waltham, Massachusetts 02451, United States
| | - Ashish Sarode
- mRNA Center of Excellence,
Sanofi, Waltham, Massachusetts 02451, United States
| | - Shrirang Karve
- mRNA Center of Excellence,
Sanofi, Waltham, Massachusetts 02451, United States
| | - Frank DeRosa
- mRNA Center of Excellence,
Sanofi, Waltham, Massachusetts 02451, United States
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15
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Shaikhutdinov IH, Ilyasov PV, Gribkova OV, Limareva LV. Non-viral systems for intracellular delivery of genome editing tools. Vavilovskii Zhurnal Genet Selektsii 2024; 28:239-248. [PMID: 38680185 PMCID: PMC11043507 DOI: 10.18699/vjgb-24-28] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
A hallmark of the last decades is an extensive development of genome editing systems and technologies propelling genetic engineering to the next level. Specific and efficient delivery of genome editing tools to target cells is one of the key elements of such technologies. Conventional vectors are not always suitable for this purpose due to a limited cargo volume, risks related to cancer and immune reactions, toxicity, a need for high-purity viral material and quality control, as well as a possibility of integration of the virus into the host genome leading to overexpression of the vector components and safety problems. Therefore, the search for novel approaches to delivering proteins and nucleic acids into cells is a relevant priority. This work reviews abiotic vectors and systems for delivering genome editing tools into target cells, including liposomes and solid lipid particles, other membrane-based vesicles, cell-penetrating peptides, micelles, dendrimers, carbon nanotubes, inorganic, polymer, metal and other nanoparticles. It considers advantages, drawbacks and preferred applications of such systems as well as suitability thereof for the delivery of genome editing systems. A particular emphasis is placed on metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and their potential in the targeted intracellular delivery of proteins and polynucleotides. It has been concluded that further development of MOF-based vectors and technologies, as well as combining MOFs with other carriers can result in safe and efficient delivery systems, which would be able to circulate in the body for a long time while recognizing target cells and ensuring cell-specific delivery and release of intact cargoes and, thereby, improving the genome editing outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- I H Shaikhutdinov
- Samara State Medical University of the Ministry of Healthcare of the Russian Federation, Samara, Russia
| | - P V Ilyasov
- Samara State Medical University of the Ministry of Healthcare of the Russian Federation, Samara, Russia
| | - O V Gribkova
- Samara State Medical University of the Ministry of Healthcare of the Russian Federation, Samara, Russia
| | - L V Limareva
- Samara State Medical University of the Ministry of Healthcare of the Russian Federation, Samara, Russia
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16
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Hirai Y, Kawaguchi Y, Kasahara C, Hirose H, Futaki S. Liquid Droplet-Mediated Formulation of Lipid Nanoparticles Encapsulating Immunoglobulin G for Cytosolic Delivery. Mol Pharm 2024; 21:1653-1661. [PMID: 38290425 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.3c00868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
Antibodies are promising biopharmaceuticals that offer new therapeutic options for diseases. Since antibodies are membrane impermeable, approaches that allow immunoglobulin Gs (IgGs) to access intracellular therapeutic targets would open new horizons in antibody therapies. Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) are among the classes of vectors that deliver biopharmaceuticals into cells. Using liquid droplets formed by IgG and polyglutamate, we report here a unique approach to forming LNPs containing IgG via liquid droplets formed in the presence of polyglutamic acid (polyE). The addition of polyE promoted the formation of smaller LNPs with cationic lipids than in its absence, and the formed LNPs were much more efficient in cytosolic IgG delivery and targeting of cellular proteins. This approach also allows for the encapsulation of intact IgG without the need for chemical or sequence modification. The intracellularly delivered IgG retained its target binding ability, as demonstrated by labeling of nuclear pore complex and HRas-GFP and inhibition of antiapoptotic cell death by phosphorylated Akt protein in live cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusuke Hirai
- Institute for Chemical Research, Kyoto University, Uji, Kyoto 611-0011, Japan
| | - Yoshimasa Kawaguchi
- Institute for Chemical Research, Kyoto University, Uji, Kyoto 611-0011, Japan
| | - Chisato Kasahara
- Institute for Chemical Research, Kyoto University, Uji, Kyoto 611-0011, Japan
| | - Hisaaki Hirose
- Institute for Chemical Research, Kyoto University, Uji, Kyoto 611-0011, Japan
| | - Shiroh Futaki
- Institute for Chemical Research, Kyoto University, Uji, Kyoto 611-0011, Japan
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17
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Huang HC, Lin CJ, Sheng YJ, Tsao HK. Instability of membranes containing ionizable cationic lipids: Effects of the repulsive range of headgroups and tail structures. Colloids Surf B Biointerfaces 2024; 236:113807. [PMID: 38417348 DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfb.2024.113807] [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: 01/13/2024] [Revised: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/01/2024]
Abstract
The stability of membranes formed by ionizable cationic lipids, which constitute the primary components in lipid nanoparticles capable of endosomal escape, is explored using coarse-grained dissipative particle dynamics. Three types of ionizable model lipids with different tail structures are considered. Endosome acidification causes the ionization of lipids, leading to an increased repulsive range between their headgroups. When electrostatic repulsion is modeled as a conservative force with a long-range cutoff distance (rc,HH), the membrane and vesicle experience a loss of structural integrity and develop holes as rc,HH is beyond a critical value, which varies with the tail structure. When Coulombic repulsion is explicitly incorporated and intensified, a fully ionized lipid membrane undergoes a loss of structural integrity, displaying a qualitative similarity to the effect observed with the increase in rc,HH on the membrane stability. Qualitatively similar results are obtained for partially ionized membranes as the fraction of charged lipids increases. The stability of a mixed lipid membrane containing both ionizable and conventional lipids is also investigated. The disruption of the bilayer structure occurs for a sufficiently high charged fraction. The membrane instability can be attributed to the decrease in the packing parameter, which significantly deviates from unity as the interaction range increases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao-Chun Huang
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, National Central University, Jhongli 320, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Jung Lin
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei 106, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Jane Sheng
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei 106, Taiwan.
| | - Heng-Kwong Tsao
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, National Central University, Jhongli 320, Taiwan.
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18
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Zhou Q, Liu Q, Wang Y, Chen J, Schmid O, Rehberg M, Yang L. Bridging Smart Nanosystems with Clinically Relevant Models and Advanced Imaging for Precision Drug Delivery. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2308659. [PMID: 38282076 PMCID: PMC11005737 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202308659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
Intracellular delivery of nano-drug-carriers (NDC) to specific cells, diseased regions, or solid tumors has entered the era of precision medicine that requires systematic knowledge of nano-biological interactions from multidisciplinary perspectives. To this end, this review first provides an overview of membrane-disruption methods such as electroporation, sonoporation, photoporation, microfluidic delivery, and microinjection with the merits of high-throughput and enhanced efficiency for in vitro NDC delivery. The impact of NDC characteristics including particle size, shape, charge, hydrophobicity, and elasticity on cellular uptake are elaborated and several types of NDC systems aiming for hierarchical targeting and delivery in vivo are reviewed. Emerging in vitro or ex vivo human/animal-derived pathophysiological models are further explored and highly recommended for use in NDC studies since they might mimic in vivo delivery features and fill the translational gaps from animals to humans. The exploration of modern microscopy techniques for precise nanoparticle (NP) tracking at the cellular, organ, and organismal levels informs the tailored development of NDCs for in vivo application and clinical translation. Overall, the review integrates the latest insights into smart nanosystem engineering, physiological models, imaging-based validation tools, all directed towards enhancing the precise and efficient intracellular delivery of NDCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiaoxia Zhou
- Institute of Lung Health and Immunity (LHI), Helmholtz MunichComprehensive Pneumology Center (CPC‐M)Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL)85764MunichGermany
- Department of Forensic PathologyWest China School of Preclinical and Forensic MedicineSichuan UniversityNo. 17 Third Renmin Road NorthChengdu610041China
- Burning Rock BiotechBuilding 6, Phase 2, Standard Industrial Unit, No. 7 LuoXuan 4th Road, International Biotech IslandGuangzhou510300China
| | - Qiongliang Liu
- Institute of Lung Health and Immunity (LHI), Helmholtz MunichComprehensive Pneumology Center (CPC‐M)Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL)85764MunichGermany
- Department of Thoracic SurgeryShanghai General HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai200080China
| | - Yan Wang
- Qingdao Central HospitalUniversity of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences (Qingdao Central Medical Group)Qingdao266042China
| | - Jie Chen
- Department of Respiratory MedicineNational Key Clinical SpecialtyBranch of National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory DiseaseXiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaHunan410008China
- Center of Respiratory MedicineXiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaHunan410008China
- Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases in Hunan ProvinceChangshaHunan410008China
- Hunan Engineering Research Center for Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment of Respiratory DiseaseChangshaHunan410008China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric DisordersXiangya HospitalChangshaHunan410008P. R. China
| | - Otmar Schmid
- Institute of Lung Health and Immunity (LHI), Helmholtz MunichComprehensive Pneumology Center (CPC‐M)Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL)85764MunichGermany
| | - Markus Rehberg
- Institute of Lung Health and Immunity (LHI), Helmholtz MunichComprehensive Pneumology Center (CPC‐M)Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL)85764MunichGermany
| | - Lin Yang
- Institute of Lung Health and Immunity (LHI), Helmholtz MunichComprehensive Pneumology Center (CPC‐M)Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL)85764MunichGermany
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19
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Bitounis D, Jacquinet E, Rogers MA, Amiji MM. Strategies to reduce the risks of mRNA drug and vaccine toxicity. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2024; 23:281-300. [PMID: 38263456 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-023-00859-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
mRNA formulated with lipid nanoparticles is a transformative technology that has enabled the rapid development and administration of billions of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine doses worldwide. However, avoiding unacceptable toxicity with mRNA drugs and vaccines presents challenges. Lipid nanoparticle structural components, production methods, route of administration and proteins produced from complexed mRNAs all present toxicity concerns. Here, we discuss these concerns, specifically how cell tropism and tissue distribution of mRNA and lipid nanoparticles can lead to toxicity, and their possible reactogenicity. We focus on adverse events from mRNA applications for protein replacement and gene editing therapies as well as vaccines, tracing common biochemical and cellular pathways. The potential and limitations of existing models and tools used to screen for on-target efficacy and de-risk off-target toxicity, including in vivo and next-generation in vitro models, are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitrios Bitounis
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
- Moderna, Inc., Cambridge, MA, USA
| | | | | | - Mansoor M Amiji
- Departments of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Chemical Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA.
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20
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Müller JA, Schäffler N, Kellerer T, Schwake G, Ligon TS, Rädler JO. Kinetics of RNA-LNP delivery and protein expression. Eur J Pharm Biopharm 2024; 197:114222. [PMID: 38387850 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2024.114222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) employing ionizable lipids are the most advanced technology for delivery of RNA, most notably mRNA, to cells. LNPs represent well-defined core-shell particles with efficient nucleic acid encapsulation, low immunogenicity and enhanced efficacy. While much is known about the structure and activity of LNPs, less attention is given to the timing of LNP uptake, cytosolic transfer and protein expression. However, LNP kinetics is a key factor determining delivery efficiency. Hence quantitative insight into the multi-cascaded pathway of LNPs is of interest to elucidate the mechanism of delivery. Here, we review experiments as well as theoretical modeling of the timing of LNP uptake, mRNA-release and protein expression. We describe LNP delivery as a sequence of stochastic transfer processes and review a mathematical model of subsequent protein translation from mRNA. We compile probabilities and numbers obtained from time resolved microscopy. Specifically, live-cell imaging on single cell arrays (LISCA) allows for high-throughput acquisition of thousands of individual GFP reporter expression time courses. The traces yield the distribution of mRNA life-times, expression rates and expression onset. Correlation analysis reveals an inverse dependence of gene expression efficiency and transfection onset-times. Finally, we discuss why timing of mRNA release is critical in the context of codelivery of multiple nucleic acid species as in the case of mRNA co-expression or CRISPR/Cas gene editing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judith A Müller
- Faculty of Physics and Center for NanoScience, Ludwig Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
| | - Nathalie Schäffler
- Faculty of Physics and Center for NanoScience, Ludwig Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
| | - Thomas Kellerer
- Multiphoton Imaging Lab, Munich University of Applied Sciences, Munich, Germany
| | - Gerlinde Schwake
- Faculty of Physics and Center for NanoScience, Ludwig Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
| | | | - Joachim O Rädler
- Faculty of Physics and Center for NanoScience, Ludwig Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany.
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21
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Hsia T, Chen Y. RNA-encapsulating lipid nanoparticles in cancer immunotherapy: From pre-clinical studies to clinical trials. Eur J Pharm Biopharm 2024; 197:114234. [PMID: 38401743 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2024.114234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
Nanoparticle-based delivery systems such as RNA-encapsulating lipid nanoparticles (RNA LNPs) have dramatically advanced in function and capacity over the last few decades. RNA LNPs boast of a diverse array of external and core configurations that enhance targeted delivery and prolong circulatory retention, advancing therapeutic outcomes. Particularly within the realm of cancer immunotherapies, RNA LNPs are increasingly gaining prominence. Pre-clinical in vitro and in vivo studies have laid a robust foundation for new and ongoing clinical trials that are actively enrolling patients for RNA LNP cancer immunotherapy. This review explores RNA LNPs, starting from their core composition to their external membrane formulation, set against a backdrop of recent clinical breakthroughs. We further elucidate the LNP delivery avenues, broach the prevailing challenges, and contemplate the future perspectives of RNA LNP-mediated immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiffaney Hsia
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 30013, Taiwan
| | - Yunching Chen
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 30013, Taiwan; Department of Chemistry, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 30013, Taiwan.
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22
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Kim LJ, Shin D, Leite WC, O’Neill H, Ruebel O, Tritt A, Hura GL. Simple Scattering: Lipid nanoparticle structural data repository. Front Mol Biosci 2024; 11:1321364. [PMID: 38584701 PMCID: PMC10998447 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2024.1321364] [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: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) are being intensively researched and developed to leverage their ability to safely and effectively deliver therapeutics. To achieve optimal therapeutic delivery, a comprehensive understanding of the relationship between formulation, structure, and efficacy is critical. However, the vast chemical space involved in the production of LNPs and the resulting structural complexity make the structure to function relationship challenging to assess and predict. New components and formulation procedures, which provide new opportunities for the use of LNPs, would be best identified and optimized using high-throughput characterization methods. Recently, a high-throughput workflow, consisting of automated mixing, small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS), and cellular assays, demonstrated a link between formulation, internal structure, and efficacy for a library of LNPs. As SAXS data can be rapidly collected, the stage is set for the collection of thousands of SAXS profiles from a myriad of LNP formulations. In addition, correlated LNP small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) datasets, where components are systematically deuterated for additional contrast inside, provide complementary structural information. The centralization of SAXS and SANS datasets from LNPs, with appropriate, standardized metadata describing formulation parameters, into a data repository will provide valuable guidance for the formulation of LNPs with desired properties. To this end, we introduce Simple Scattering, an easy-to-use, open data repository for storing and sharing groups of correlated scattering profiles obtained from LNP screening experiments. Here, we discuss the current state of the repository, including limitations and upcoming changes, and our vision towards future usage in developing our collective knowledge base of LNPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lee Joon Kim
- Molecular Biophysics and Integrated Bioimaging Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, United States
| | - David Shin
- David Shin Consulting, Berkeley, CA, United States
| | - Wellington C. Leite
- Neutron Scattering Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, TN, United States
| | - Hugh O’Neill
- Neutron Scattering Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, TN, United States
| | - Oliver Ruebel
- Scientific Data Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, United States
| | - Andrew Tritt
- Applied Mathematics and Computational Science Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, United States
| | - Greg L. Hura
- Molecular Biophysics and Integrated Bioimaging Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, United States
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, United States
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23
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Zhang H, Gao X, Sun Q, Dong X, Zhu Z, Yang C. Incorporation of poly(γ-glutamic acid) in lipid nanoparticles for enhanced mRNA delivery efficiency in vitro and in vivo. Acta Biomater 2024; 177:361-376. [PMID: 38342193 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2024.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/13/2024]
Abstract
Messenger RNA (mRNA)-based therapy shows immense potential for broad biomedical applications. However, the development of safe and efficacious mRNA delivery vectors remains challenging due to delivery barriers and inefficient intracellular payload release. Herein, we presented a simple strategy to boost the mRNA intracellular release by incorporation of anionic poly(γ-glutamic acid) (PGA) into an ionizable lipid-based LNP/mRNA. We systematically investigated the impact of PGA incorporation on mRNA transfection both in vitro and in vivo. The molecular weights and formulation ratios of PGA greatly affected the transfection efficacy of LNP/mRNA. From in vitro study, the optimized LNP/mRNA/PGA was formulated by incorporation of PGA with the molecular weight of 80 kDa or 200 kDa and the charge ratio (N/P/C) of 25/1/1. The optimized formulation achieved around 3-fold mRNA expression in HeLa cells compared to the bare LNP/mRNA. The intracellular releasing study using specific DNA probe revealed that this enhancement of transfection efficacy was attributed to the elevated mRNA release into cytoplasm. Moreover, the optimized LNP/mRNA/PGA achieved up to 5-fold or 3-fold increase of luciferase mRNA expression in vivo after being injected into mice systematically or intramuscularly, respectively. In addition, the incorporation of PGA did not significantly alter the biodistribution profile of the complexes on both organ and cellular levels. Therefore, our work provides a simple strategy to boost mRNA delivery, which holds great promise to improve the efficacy of mRNA therapeutics for various biomedical applications. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: The process of designing and screening potent mRNA carriers is complicated and time-consuming, while the efficacy is not always satisfying due to the delivery barriers and inefficient mRNA release. This work presented an alternative strategy to boost the mRNA delivery efficacy by incorporating an anionic natural polymer poly(γ-glutamic acid) (PGA) into LNP/mRNA complexes. The optimized LNP/mRNA/PGA achieved up to 3-fold and 5-fold increase in transfection efficacy in vitro and in vivo, respectively. Intracellular releasing analysis revealed that the enhancement of transfection efficacy was mainly attributed to the elevated intracellular release of mRNA. In addition, the incorporation of PGA did not alter the biodistribution or the biosafety profile of the complexes. These findings indicate that PGA incorporation is a promising strategy to improve the efficacy of mRNA therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongqian Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Colloid and Interface Chemistry of the Ministry of Education, and School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan 25010, China
| | - Xue Gao
- Key Laboratory of Colloid and Interface Chemistry of the Ministry of Education, and School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan 25010, China
| | - Qian Sun
- Key Laboratory of Colloid and Interface Chemistry of the Ministry of Education, and School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan 25010, China
| | - Xiaoxue Dong
- Key Laboratory of Colloid and Interface Chemistry of the Ministry of Education, and School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan 25010, China
| | - Zongwei Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Colloid and Interface Chemistry of the Ministry of Education, and School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan 25010, China
| | - Chuanxu Yang
- Key Laboratory of Colloid and Interface Chemistry of the Ministry of Education, and School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan 25010, China.
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24
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Bogaert B, Debisschop A, Ehouarne T, Van Eeckhoutte HP, De Volder J, Jacobs A, Pottie E, De Rycke R, Crabbé A, Mestdagh P, Lentacker I, Brusselle GG, Stove C, Verstraelen S, Maes T, Bracke KR, De Smedt SC, Raemdonck K. Selective Replacement of Cholesterol with Cationic Amphiphilic Drugs Enables the Design of Lipid Nanoparticles with Improved RNA Delivery. NANO LETTERS 2024; 24:2961-2971. [PMID: 38477058 DOI: 10.1021/acs.nanolett.3c03345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
The delivery of RNA across biological barriers can be achieved by encapsulation in lipid nanoparticles (LNPs). Cationic amphiphilic drugs (CADs) are pharmacologically diverse compounds with ionizable lipid-like features. In this work, we applied CADs as a fifth component of state-of-the-art LNPs via microfluidic mixing. Improved cytosolic delivery of both siRNA and mRNA was achieved by partly replacing the cholesterol fraction of LNPs with CADs. The LNPs could cross the mucus layer in a mucus-producing air-liquid interface model of human primary bronchial epithelial cells following nebulization. Moreover, CAD-LNPs demonstrated improved epithelial and endothelial targeting following intranasal administration in mice, without a marked pro-inflammatory signature. Importantly, quantification of the CAD-LNP molar composition, as demonstrated for nortriptyline, revealed a gradual leakage of the CAD from the formulation during LNP dialysis. Altogether, these data suggest that the addition of a CAD prior to the rapid mixing process might have an impact on the composition, structure, and performance of LNPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bram Bogaert
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Aliona Debisschop
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Thomas Ehouarne
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Hannelore P Van Eeckhoutte
- Laboratory for Translational Research in Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases, Department of Respiratory Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent University, C. Heymanslaan 10, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Joyceline De Volder
- Laboratory for Translational Research in Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases, Department of Respiratory Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent University, C. Heymanslaan 10, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - An Jacobs
- Health Unit, Flemish Institute for Technological Research (VITO), Boeretang 200, 2400 Mol, Belgium
| | - Eline Pottie
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Riet De Rycke
- Ghent University Expertise Center for Transmission Electron Microscopy and VIB BioImaging Core, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, VIB Center for Inflammation Research, 9052 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Aurélie Crabbé
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Pieter Mestdagh
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, OncoRNAlab, Ghent University, C. Heymanslaan 10, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Ine Lentacker
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Guy G Brusselle
- Laboratory for Translational Research in Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases, Department of Respiratory Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent University, C. Heymanslaan 10, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Christophe Stove
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Sandra Verstraelen
- Health Unit, Flemish Institute for Technological Research (VITO), Boeretang 200, 2400 Mol, Belgium
| | - Tania Maes
- Laboratory for Translational Research in Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases, Department of Respiratory Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent University, C. Heymanslaan 10, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Ken R Bracke
- Laboratory for Translational Research in Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases, Department of Respiratory Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent University, C. Heymanslaan 10, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Stefaan C De Smedt
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Koen Raemdonck
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
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25
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Chatterjee S, Kon E, Sharma P, Peer D. Endosomal escape: A bottleneck for LNP-mediated therapeutics. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2307800120. [PMID: 38437552 PMCID: PMC10945858 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2307800120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) have recently emerged as a powerful and versatile clinically approved platform for nucleic acid delivery, specifically for mRNA vaccines. A major bottleneck in the field is the release of mRNA-LNPs from the endosomal pathways into the cytosol of cells where they can execute their encoded functions. The data regarding the mechanism of these endosomal escape processes are limited and contradicting. Despite extensive research, there is no consensus regarding the compartment of escape, the cause of the inefficient escape and are currently lacking a robust method to detect the escape. Here, we review the currently known mechanisms of endosomal escape and the available methods to study this process. We critically discuss the limitations and challenges of these methods and the possibilities to overcome these challenges. We propose that the development of currently lacking robust, quantitative high-throughput techniques to study endosomal escape is timely and essential. A better understanding of this process will enable better RNA-LNP designs with improved efficiency to unlock new therapeutic modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sushmita Chatterjee
- Laboratory of Precision Nanomedicine, Shmunis School of Biomedicine and Cancer Research, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
- Department of Materials Sciences and Engineering, Iby and Aladar Fleischman Faculty of Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
- Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
- Cancer Biology Research Center, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Edo Kon
- Laboratory of Precision Nanomedicine, Shmunis School of Biomedicine and Cancer Research, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
- Department of Materials Sciences and Engineering, Iby and Aladar Fleischman Faculty of Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
- Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
- Cancer Biology Research Center, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Preeti Sharma
- Laboratory of Precision Nanomedicine, Shmunis School of Biomedicine and Cancer Research, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
- Department of Materials Sciences and Engineering, Iby and Aladar Fleischman Faculty of Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
- Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
- Cancer Biology Research Center, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Dan Peer
- Laboratory of Precision Nanomedicine, Shmunis School of Biomedicine and Cancer Research, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
- Department of Materials Sciences and Engineering, Iby and Aladar Fleischman Faculty of Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
- Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
- Cancer Biology Research Center, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
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26
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Estapé Senti M, García Del Valle L, Schiffelers RM. mRNA delivery systems for cancer immunotherapy: Lipid nanoparticles and beyond. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2024; 206:115190. [PMID: 38307296 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2024.115190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 01/21/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024]
Abstract
mRNA-based vaccines are emerging as a promising alternative to standard cancer treatments and the conventional vaccines. Moreover, the FDA-approval of three nucleic acid based therapeutics (Onpattro, BNT162b2 and mRNA-1273) has further increased the interest and trust on this type of therapeutics. In order to achieve a significant therapeutic efficacy, the mRNA needs from a drug delivery system. In the last years, several delivery platforms have been explored, being the lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) the most well characterized and studied. A better understanding on how mRNA-based therapeutics operate (both the mRNA itself and the drug delivery system) will help to further improve their efficacy and safety. In this review, we will provide an overview of what mRNA cancer vaccines are and their mode of action and we will highlight the advantages and challenges of the different delivery platforms that are under investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariona Estapé Senti
- CDL Research, University Medical Center Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CX, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Lucía García Del Valle
- CDL Research, University Medical Center Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CX, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Raymond M Schiffelers
- CDL Research, University Medical Center Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CX, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
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27
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Kimura S, Harashima H. Nano-Bio Interactions: Exploring the Biological Behavior and the Fate of Lipid-Based Gene Delivery Systems. BioDrugs 2024; 38:259-273. [PMID: 38345754 DOI: 10.1007/s40259-024-00647-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024]
Abstract
Gene therapy for many diseases is rapidly becoming a reality, as demonstrated by the recent approval of various nucleic acid-based therapeutics. Non-viral systems such as lipid-based carriers, lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), for delivering different payloads including small interfering RNA, plasmid DNA, and messenger RNA have been particularly extensively explored and developed for clinical uses. One of the most important issues in LNP development is delivery to extrahepatic tissues. To achieve this, various lipids and lipid-like materials are being examined and screened. Several LNP formulations that target extrahepatic tissues, such as the spleen and the lungs have been developed by adjusting the lipid compositions of LNPs. However, mechanistic details of how the characteristics of LNPs affect delivery efficiency remains unclear. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of LNP-based nucleic acid delivery focusing on LNP components and their structures, as well as discussing biological factors, such as biomolecular corona and cellular responses related to the delivery efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seigo Kimura
- Integrated Research Consortium on Chemical Sciences, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Nagoya, 464-8602, Japan.
| | - Hideyoshi Harashima
- Laboratory for Innovative Nanomedicine, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, 060-0812, Japan.
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28
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Dao HM, AboulFotouh K, Hussain AF, Marras AE, Johnston KP, Cui Z, Williams RO. Characterization of mRNA Lipid Nanoparticles by Electron Density Mapping Reconstruction: X-ray Scattering with Density from Solution Scattering (DENSS) Algorithm. Pharm Res 2024; 41:501-512. [PMID: 38326530 DOI: 10.1007/s11095-024-03671-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/28/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to test the feasibility of using Small Angle X-ray Scattering (SAXS) coupled with Density from Solution Scattering (DENSS) algorithm to characterize the internal architecture of messenger RNA-containing lipid nanoparticles (mRNA-LNPs). METHODS The DENSS algorithm was employed to construct a three-dimensional model of average individual mRNA-LNP. The reconstructed models were cross validated with cryogenic transmission electron microscopy (cryo-TEM), and dynamic light scattering (DLS) to assess size, morphology, and internal structure. RESULTS Cryo-TEM and DLS complemented SAXS, revealed a core-shell mRNA-LNP structure with electron-rich mRNA-rich region at the core, surrounded by lipids. The reconstructed model, utilizing the DENSS algorithm, effectively distinguishes mRNA and lipids via electron density mapping. Notably, DENSS accurately models the morphology of the mRNA-LNPs as an ellipsoidal shape with a "bleb" architecture or a two-compartment structure with contrasting electron densities, corresponding to mRNA-filled and empty lipid compartments, respectively. Finally, subtle changes in the LNP structure after three freeze-thaw cycles were detected by SAXS, demonstrating an increase in radius of gyration (Rg) associated with mRNA leakage. CONCLUSION Analyzing SAXS profiles based on DENSS algorithm to yield a reconstructed electron density based three-dimensional model can be a useful physicochemical characterization method in the toolbox to study mRNA-LNPs and facilitate their development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huy M Dao
- Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics and Drug Delivery, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Khaled AboulFotouh
- Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics and Drug Delivery, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Aasim Faheem Hussain
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Cockrell School of Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Alexander E Marras
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Cockrell School of Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
- Materials Science and Engineering Graduate Program, Texas Materials Institute, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
- Walker Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Keith P Johnston
- McKetta Department of Chemical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Zhengrong Cui
- Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics and Drug Delivery, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA.
| | - Robert O Williams
- Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics and Drug Delivery, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA.
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29
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Zhang J, Cui B, He T, Hei R, Yang L, Liu C, Wu X, Wang X, Gao Z, Lin F, Zhang H, Dong K. Enhancing Neuroprotection in Mouse Model of Parkinson's Disease through Protein Nanosystem Conjugation with ApoE Peptide for miR-124 Delivery. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:8199-8212. [PMID: 38345297 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c13849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) affects millions of people's lives worldwide. The main pathogenesis of PD is dopaminergic neuron necrosis and neuroinflammation mediated by activated microglia cells. In recent years, the anti-inflammatory ability and neuroprotective effects of miR-124 in PD models were well proved, but the in vivo delivery of miR-124 remains challenging. Herein, we report a protein nanosystem modified with a brain-targeting peptide ApoE that could efficiently deliver miR-124 across the blood-brain barrier (BBB). This nanosystem showed good cell viability on brain endothelial cells and microglia cells, and administration of this nanosystem significantly decreased the neuroinflammation and dopaminergic neuron loss, as well as recovered parts of neurobehavioral deficits. This ApoE peptide-based protein nanosystem holds great promise for the delivery of RNA therapeutics to the brain and for realizing neuron protection in PD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710038, China
| | - Bozhou Cui
- Department of Experimental Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710038, China
| | - Ting He
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710038, China
| | - Ruoxuan Hei
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710038, China
| | - Lan Yang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710038, China
| | - Chong Liu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710038, China
| | - Xianan Wu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710038, China
| | - Xi Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710038, China
| | - Zhaowei Gao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710038, China
| | - Fang Lin
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710038, China
| | - Huizhong Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710038, China
| | - Ke Dong
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710038, China
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30
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Huang Y, Guo X, Wu Y, Chen X, Feng L, Xie N, Shen G. Nanotechnology's frontier in combatting infectious and inflammatory diseases: prevention and treatment. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:34. [PMID: 38378653 PMCID: PMC10879169 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01745-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Inflammation-associated diseases encompass a range of infectious diseases and non-infectious inflammatory diseases, which continuously pose one of the most serious threats to human health, attributed to factors such as the emergence of new pathogens, increasing drug resistance, changes in living environments and lifestyles, and the aging population. Despite rapid advancements in mechanistic research and drug development for these diseases, current treatments often have limited efficacy and notable side effects, necessitating the development of more effective and targeted anti-inflammatory therapies. In recent years, the rapid development of nanotechnology has provided crucial technological support for the prevention, treatment, and detection of inflammation-associated diseases. Various types of nanoparticles (NPs) play significant roles, serving as vaccine vehicles to enhance immunogenicity and as drug carriers to improve targeting and bioavailability. NPs can also directly combat pathogens and inflammation. In addition, nanotechnology has facilitated the development of biosensors for pathogen detection and imaging techniques for inflammatory diseases. This review categorizes and characterizes different types of NPs, summarizes their applications in the prevention, treatment, and detection of infectious and inflammatory diseases. It also discusses the challenges associated with clinical translation in this field and explores the latest developments and prospects. In conclusion, nanotechnology opens up new possibilities for the comprehensive management of infectious and inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujing Huang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, and West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Xiaohan Guo
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, and West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yi Wu
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, and West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Xingyu Chen
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, and West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Lixiang Feng
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, and West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Na Xie
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, and West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| | - Guobo Shen
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, and West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, 610041, China.
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31
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Slezak A, Chang K, Hossainy S, Mansurov A, Rowan SJ, Hubbell JA, Guler MO. Therapeutic synthetic and natural materials for immunoengineering. Chem Soc Rev 2024; 53:1789-1822. [PMID: 38170619 DOI: 10.1039/d3cs00805c] [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: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Immunoengineering is a rapidly evolving field that has been driving innovations in manipulating immune system for new treatment tools and methods. The need for materials for immunoengineering applications has gained significant attention in recent years due to the growing demand for effective therapies that can target and regulate the immune system. Biologics and biomaterials are emerging as promising tools for controlling immune responses, and a wide variety of materials, including proteins, polymers, nanoparticles, and hydrogels, are being developed for this purpose. In this review article, we explore the different types of materials used in immunoengineering applications, their properties and design principles, and highlight the latest therapeutic materials advancements. Recent works in adjuvants, vaccines, immune tolerance, immunotherapy, and tissue models for immunoengineering studies are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Slezak
- The Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA.
| | - Kevin Chang
- The Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA.
| | - Samir Hossainy
- The Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA.
| | - Aslan Mansurov
- The Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA.
| | - Stuart J Rowan
- The Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA.
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Jeffrey A Hubbell
- The Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA.
| | - Mustafa O Guler
- The Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA.
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32
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Rajput S, Malviya R, Uniyal P. Advancements in the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of retinoblastoma. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF OPHTHALMOLOGY 2024:S0008-4182(24)00031-0. [PMID: 38369298 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcjo.2024.01.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Retinoblastoma (RB) is a prevalent primitive intraocular malignancy in children, particularly in those younger than age 3 years. RB is caused by mutations in the RB1 gene. In developing countries, mortality rates for this type of cancer are still high, whereas industrialized countries have achieved a survival rate of >95%-98%. Untreated, the condition can be fatal, underscoring the importance of early diagnosis. The existing treatments primarily consist of surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. The detrimental effects of radiation and chemotherapeutic drugs have been documented as factors that contribute to increased mortality rates and negatively affect the quality of life for patients. MicroRNA (miRNA), a type of noncoding RNA, exerts a substantial influence on RB development and the emergence of treatment resistance by regulating diverse cellular processes. This review highlights recent developments in the involvement of miRNAs in RB. This encompasses the clinical significance of miRNAs in the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of RB. Additionally, this paper examines the regulatory mechanisms of miRNAs in RB and explores potential therapeutic interventions. This paper provides an overview of the current and emerging treatment options for RB, focusing on recent studies investigating the application of different types of nanoparticles for the diagnosis and treatment of this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shivam Rajput
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medical and Allied Sciences, Galgotias University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Rishabha Malviya
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medical and Allied Sciences, Galgotias University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India.
| | - Prerna Uniyal
- School of Pharmacy, Graphic Era Hill University, Dehradun, India
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33
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Zhang X, Li Y, Zhou Z. Lipid Nanoparticle-Based Delivery System-A Competing Place for mRNA Vaccines. ACS OMEGA 2024; 9:6219-6234. [PMID: 38371811 PMCID: PMC10870384 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c08353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 12/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
mRNA, as one of the foci of biomedical research in the past decade, has become a candidate vaccine solution for various infectious diseases and tumors and for regenerative medicine and immunotherapy due to its high efficiency, safety, and effectiveness. A stable and effective delivery system is needed to protect mRNAs from nuclease degradation while also enhancing immunogenicity. The success of mRNA lipid nanoparticles in treating COVID-19, to a certain extent, marks a milestone for mRNA vaccines and also promotes further research on mRNA delivery systems. Here, we explore mRNA vaccine delivery systems, especially lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), considering the current research status, prospects, and challenges of lipid nanoparticles, and explore other mRNA delivery systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyu Zhang
- Research
Center for Infectious Diseases, Tianjin
University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 300193 Tianjin, China
- Institute
for Biological Product Control, National
Institutes for Food and Drug Control (NIFDC) and WHO Collaborating
Center for Standardization and Evaluation of Biologicals, No.31 Huatuo Street, Daxing District, 102629 Beijing, China
- College
of Life Science, Jilin University, 130012 Changchun, China
| | - Yuanfang Li
- Department
of Neurology, Zhongshan Hospital (Xiamen Branch), Fudan University, 361015 Xiamen, Fujian China
| | - Zehua Zhou
- Research
Center for Infectious Diseases, Tianjin
University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 300193 Tianjin, China
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34
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Pattipeiluhu R, Zeng Y, Hendrix MMRM, Voets IK, Kros A, Sharp TH. Liquid crystalline inverted lipid phases encapsulating siRNA enhance lipid nanoparticle mediated transfection. Nat Commun 2024; 15:1303. [PMID: 38347001 PMCID: PMC10861598 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-45666-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Efficient cytosolic delivery of RNA molecules remains a formidable barrier for RNA therapeutic strategies. Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) serve as state-of-the-art carriers that can deliver RNA molecules intracellularly, as exemplified by the recent implementation of several vaccines against SARS-CoV-2. Using a bottom-up rational design approach, we assemble LNPs that contain programmable lipid phases encapsulating small interfering RNA (siRNA). A combination of cryogenic transmission electron microscopy, cryogenic electron tomography and small-angle X-ray scattering reveals that we can form inverse hexagonal structures, which are present in a liquid crystalline nature within the LNP core. Comparison with lamellar LNPs reveals that the presence of inverse hexagonal phases enhances the intracellular silencing efficiency over lamellar structures. We then demonstrate that lamellar LNPs exhibit an in situ transition from a lamellar to inverse hexagonal phase upon interaction with anionic membranes, whereas LNPs containing pre-programmed liquid crystalline hexagonal phases bypass this transition for a more efficient one-step delivery mechanism, explaining the increased silencing effect. This rational design of LNPs with defined lipid structures aids in the understanding of the nano-bio interface and adds substantial value for LNP design, optimization and use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roy Pattipeiluhu
- Supramolecular and Biomaterials Chemistry, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Einsteinweg 55, 2333 CC, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Einthovenweg 20, 2333 ZC, Leiden, The Netherlands
- BioNTech SE, An der Goldgrube 12, 55131, Mainz, Germany
| | - Ye Zeng
- Supramolecular and Biomaterials Chemistry, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Einsteinweg 55, 2333 CC, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Marco M R M Hendrix
- Self-Organizing Soft Matter, Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry & Institute of Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, P.O. Box 513, 5600 MB, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Ilja K Voets
- Self-Organizing Soft Matter, Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry & Institute of Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, P.O. Box 513, 5600 MB, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Alexander Kros
- Supramolecular and Biomaterials Chemistry, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Einsteinweg 55, 2333 CC, Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | - Thomas H Sharp
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Einthovenweg 20, 2333 ZC, Leiden, The Netherlands.
- School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 1TD, United Kingdom.
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35
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VanKeulen-Miller R, Fenton OS. Messenger RNA Therapy for Female Reproductive Health. Mol Pharm 2024; 21:393-409. [PMID: 38189262 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.3c00803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
Female reproductive health has traditionally been an underrepresented area of research in the drug delivery sciences. This disparity is also seen in the emerging field of mRNA therapeutics, a class of medicines that promises to treat and prevent disease by upregulating protein expression in the body. Here, we review advances in mRNA therapies through the lens of improving female reproductive health. Specifically, we begin our review by discussing the fundamental structure and biochemical modifications associated with mRNA-based drugs. Then, we discuss various packaging technologies, including lipid nanoparticles, that can be utilized to protect and transport mRNA drugs to target cells in the body. Last, we conclude our review by discussing the usage of mRNA therapy for addressing pregnancy-related health and vaccination against sexually transmitted diseases in women. Of note, we also highlight relevant clinical trials using mRNA for female reproductive health while also providing their corresponding National Clinical Trial identifiers. In undertaking this review, our aim is to provide a fundamental background understanding of mRNA therapy and its usage to specifically address female health issues with an overarching goal of providing information toward addressing gender disparity in certain aspects of health research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel VanKeulen-Miller
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, United States
| | - Owen S Fenton
- Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, United States
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36
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Papadopoulou P, van der Pol R, van Hilten N, van Os WL, Pattipeiluhu R, Arias-Alpizar G, Knol RA, Noteborn W, Moradi MA, Ferraz MJ, Aerts JMFG, Sommerdijk N, Campbell F, Risselada HJ, Sevink GJA, Kros A. Phase-Separated Lipid-Based Nanoparticles: Selective Behavior at the Nano-Bio Interface. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2310872. [PMID: 37988682 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202310872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
The membrane-protein interface on lipid-based nanoparticles influences their in vivo behavior. Better understanding may evolve current drug delivery methods toward effective targeted nanomedicine. Previously, the cell-selective accumulation of a liposome formulation in vivo is demonstrated, through the recognition of lipid phase-separation by triglyceride lipases. This exemplified how liposome morphology and composition can determine nanoparticle-protein interactions. Here, the lipase-induced compositional and morphological changes of phase-separated liposomes-which bear a lipid droplet in their bilayer- are investigated, and the mechanism upon which lipases recognize and bind to the particles is unravelled. The selective lipolytic degradation of the phase-separated lipid droplet is observed, while nanoparticle integrity remains intact. Next, the Tryptophan-rich loop of the lipase is identified as the region with which the enzymes bind to the particles. This preferential binding is due to lipid packing defects induced on the liposome surface by phase separation. In parallel, the existing knowledge that phase separation leads to in vivo selectivity, is utilized to generate phase-separated mRNA-LNPs that target cell-subsets in zebrafish embryos, with subsequent mRNA delivery and protein expression. Together, these findings can expand the current knowledge on selective nanoparticle-protein communications and in vivo behavior, aspects that will assist to gain control of lipid-based nanoparticles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panagiota Papadopoulou
- Department of Supramolecular & Biomaterials Chemistry, Leiden Institute of Chemistry (LIC), Leiden University, P. O. Box 9502, Leiden, 2300 RA, The Netherlands
| | - Rianne van der Pol
- Department of Supramolecular & Biomaterials Chemistry, Leiden Institute of Chemistry (LIC), Leiden University, P. O. Box 9502, Leiden, 2300 RA, The Netherlands
| | - Niek van Hilten
- Department of Supramolecular & Biomaterials Chemistry, Leiden Institute of Chemistry (LIC), Leiden University, P. O. Box 9502, Leiden, 2300 RA, The Netherlands
| | - Winant L van Os
- Department of Supramolecular & Biomaterials Chemistry, Leiden Institute of Chemistry (LIC), Leiden University, P. O. Box 9502, Leiden, 2300 RA, The Netherlands
| | - Roy Pattipeiluhu
- Department of Supramolecular & Biomaterials Chemistry, Leiden Institute of Chemistry (LIC), Leiden University, P. O. Box 9502, Leiden, 2300 RA, The Netherlands
| | - Gabriela Arias-Alpizar
- Department of Supramolecular & Biomaterials Chemistry, Leiden Institute of Chemistry (LIC), Leiden University, P. O. Box 9502, Leiden, 2300 RA, The Netherlands
| | - Renzo Aron Knol
- Department of Supramolecular & Biomaterials Chemistry, Leiden Institute of Chemistry (LIC), Leiden University, P. O. Box 9502, Leiden, 2300 RA, The Netherlands
| | - Willem Noteborn
- NeCEN, Leiden University, Einsteinweg 55, Leiden, 2333 AL, The Netherlands
| | - Mohammad-Amin Moradi
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven University of Technology, P. O. Box 513, Eindhoven, 5600 MB, The Netherlands
| | - Maria Joao Ferraz
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Leiden Institute of Chemistry (LIC), Leiden University, P. O. Box 9502, Leiden, 2300 RA, The Netherlands
| | | | - Nico Sommerdijk
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven University of Technology, P. O. Box 513, Eindhoven, 5600 MB, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical BioSciences and Radboud Technology Center - Electron Microscopy, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, 6525 GA, The Netherlands
| | - Frederick Campbell
- Department of Supramolecular & Biomaterials Chemistry, Leiden Institute of Chemistry (LIC), Leiden University, P. O. Box 9502, Leiden, 2300 RA, The Netherlands
| | - Herre Jelger Risselada
- Department of Supramolecular & Biomaterials Chemistry, Leiden Institute of Chemistry (LIC), Leiden University, P. O. Box 9502, Leiden, 2300 RA, The Netherlands
- Department of Physics, Technical University Dortmund, 44221, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Geert Jan Agur Sevink
- Department of Biophysical Organic Chemistry, Leiden Institute of Chemistry (LIC), Leiden University, P. O. Box 9502, Leiden, 2300 RA, The Netherlands
| | - Alexander Kros
- Department of Supramolecular & Biomaterials Chemistry, Leiden Institute of Chemistry (LIC), Leiden University, P. O. Box 9502, Leiden, 2300 RA, The Netherlands
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37
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AboulFotouh K, Southard B, Dao HM, Xu H, Moon C, Williams Iii RO, Cui Z. Effect of lipid composition on RNA-Lipid nanoparticle properties and their sensitivity to thin-film freezing and drying. Int J Pharm 2024; 650:123688. [PMID: 38070660 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2023.123688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 12/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
A library of 16 lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulations with orthogonally varying lipid molar ratios was designed and synthesized, using polyadenylic acid [poly(A)] as a model for mRNA, to explore the effect of lipid composition in LNPs on (i) the initial size of the resultant LNPs and encapsulation efficiency of RNA and (ii) the sensitivity of the LNPs to various conditions including cold storage, freezing (slow vs. rapid) and thawing, and drying. Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) regression was employed to identify the optimal lipid molar ratios and interactions that favorably affect the physical properties of the LNPs and enhance their stability in various stress conditions. LNPs exhibited distinct responses under each stress condition, highlighting the effect of lipid molar ratios and lipid interactions on the LNP physical properties and stability. It was then demonstrated that it is feasible to use thin-film freeze-drying to convert poly(A)-LNPs from liquid dispersions to dry powders while maintaining the integrity of the LNPs. Importantly, the residual moisture content in LNP dry powders significantly affected the LNP integrity.Residual moisture content of ≤ 0.5% or > 3-3.5% w/w negatively affected the LNP size and/or RNA encapsulation efficiency, depending on the LNP composition. Finally, it was shown that the thin-film freeze-dried LNP powders have desirable aerosol properties for potential pulmonary delivery. It was concluded that Design of Experiments can be applied to identify mRNA-LNP formulations with the desired physical properties and stability profiles. Additionally, optimizing the residual moisture content in mRNA-LNP dry powders during (thin-film) freeze-drying is crucial to maintain the physical properties of the LNPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khaled AboulFotouh
- Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics and Drug Delivery, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA; Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Assiut University, Assiut 71526, Egypt
| | - Benjamin Southard
- Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics and Drug Delivery, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Huy M Dao
- Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics and Drug Delivery, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Haiyue Xu
- Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics and Drug Delivery, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Chaeho Moon
- Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics and Drug Delivery, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Robert O Williams Iii
- Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics and Drug Delivery, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA.
| | - Zhengrong Cui
- Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics and Drug Delivery, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA.
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38
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Kimura N, Tanaka Y, Yamanishi Y, Takahashi A, Sakuma S. Nanoparticles Based on Natural Lipids Reveal Extent of Impacts of Designed Physical Characteristics on Biological Functions. ACS NANO 2024; 18:1432-1448. [PMID: 38165131 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c07461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Nanoparticles based on lipids (LNPs) are essential in pharmaceuticals and intercellular communication, and their design parameters span a diverse range of molecules and assemblies. In bridging the gap in insight between extracellular vesicles (EVs) and synthetic LNPs, one challenge is understanding their in-cell/in-body behavior when simultaneously assessing more than one physical characteristic. Herein, we demonstrate comprehensive evaluation of LNP behavior by using LNPs based on natural lipids (N-LNPs) with designed physical characteristics: size tuned using microfluidic methods, surface fluidity designed based on EV components, and stiffness tuned using biomolecules. We produce 12 types of N-LNPs having different physical characteristics─two sizes, three membrane fluidities, and two stiffnesses for in vitro evaluation─and evaluate cellular uptake vitality and endocytic pathways of N-LNPs based on the physical characteristics of N-LNPs. To reveal the extent of the impact of the predesigned physical characteristics of N-LNPs on cellular uptakes in vivo, we also carried out animal experiments with four types of N-LNPs having different sizes and fluidities. The use of N-LNPs has helped to clarify the extent of the impact of inextricably related, designed physical characteristics on transportation and provided a bidirectional guidepost for the streamlined design and understanding of the biological functions of LNPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niko Kimura
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Faculty of Engineering, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
| | - Yoko Tanaka
- Division of Cellular Senescence, Cancer Institute, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo 135-8550, Japan
| | - Yoko Yamanishi
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
| | - Akiko Takahashi
- Division of Cellular Senescence, Cancer Institute, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo 135-8550, Japan
- Cancer Cell Communication Project, NEXT-Ganken Program, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo 135-8550, Japan
| | - Shinya Sakuma
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
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39
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Thelen JL, Leite W, Urban VS, O'Neill HM, Grishaev AV, Curtis JE, Krueger S, Castellanos MM. Morphological Characterization of Self-Amplifying mRNA Lipid Nanoparticles. ACS NANO 2024; 18:1464-1476. [PMID: 38175970 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c08014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
The mRNA technology has emerged as a rapid modality to develop vaccines during pandemic situations with the potential to protect against endemic diseases. The success of mRNA in producing an antigen is dependent on the ability to deliver mRNA to the cells using a vehicle, which typically consists of a lipid nanoparticle (LNP). Self-amplifying mRNA (SAM) is a synthetic mRNA platform that, besides encoding for the antigen of interest, includes the replication machinery for mRNA amplification in the cells. Thus, SAM can generate many antigen encoding mRNA copies and prolong expression of the antigen with lower doses than those required for conventional mRNA. This work describes the morphology of LNPs containing encapsulated SAM (SAM LNPs), with SAM being three to four times larger than conventional mRNA. We show evidence that SAM changes its conformational structure when encapsulated in LNPs, becoming more compact than the free SAM form. A characteristic "bleb" structure is observed in SAM LNPs, which consists of a lipid-rich core and an aqueous RNA-rich core, both surrounded by a DSPC-rich lipid shell. We used SANS and SAXS data to confirm that the prevalent morphology of the LNP consists of two-core compartments where components are heterogeneously distributed between the two cores and the shell. A capped cylinder core-shell model with two interior compartments was built to capture the overall morphology of the LNP. These findings provide evidence that bleb two-compartment structures can be a representative morphology in SAM LNPs and highlight the need for additional studies that elucidate the role of spherical and bleb morphologies, their mechanisms of formation, and the parameters that lead to a particular morphology for a rational design of LNPs for mRNA delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob L Thelen
- GSK, Rockville Center for Vaccines Research, 14200 Shady Grove Road, Rockville, Maryland 20850, United States
| | - Wellington Leite
- Neutron Scattering Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, 1 Bethel Valley Road, Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37831, United States
| | - Volker S Urban
- Neutron Scattering Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, 1 Bethel Valley Road, Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37831, United States
| | - Hugh M O'Neill
- Neutron Scattering Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, 1 Bethel Valley Road, Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37831, United States
| | - Alexander V Grishaev
- Institute for Bioscience and Biotechnology Research, University of Maryland, 9600 Gudelsky Drive, Rockville, Maryland 20850, United States
- Material Measurement Laboratory, National Institute of Standards and Technology, 100 Bureau Drive, Gaithersburg, Maryland 20899, United States
| | - Joseph E Curtis
- NIST Center for Neutron Research, National Institute of Standards and Technology, 100 Bureau Drive, Gaithersburg, Maryland 20899, United States
| | - Susan Krueger
- NIST Center for Neutron Research, National Institute of Standards and Technology, 100 Bureau Drive, Gaithersburg, Maryland 20899, United States
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland 20742, United States
| | - Maria Monica Castellanos
- GSK, Rockville Center for Vaccines Research, 14200 Shady Grove Road, Rockville, Maryland 20850, United States
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40
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Mir S, Mir M. The mRNA vaccine, a swift warhead against a moving infectious disease target. Expert Rev Vaccines 2024; 23:336-348. [PMID: 38369742 DOI: 10.1080/14760584.2024.2320327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The rapid development of mRNA vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 has revolutionized vaccinology, offering hope for swift responses to emerging infectious diseases. Initially met with skepticism, mRNA vaccines have proven effective and safe, reducing vaccine hesitancy amid the evolving COVID-19 pandemic. The COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated that the time required to modify mRNA vaccines to counter new mutant strains is significantly shorter than the time it takes for pathogens to mutate and generate new variants that can thrive in vaccinated populations. This highlights the notion that mRNA vaccine technology appears to be outpacing viruses in the ongoing evolutionary race. AREAS COVERED This review article offers valuable insights into several crucial aspects of mRNA vaccine development and deployment, including the fundamentals of mRNA vaccine design and synthesis, the utilization of delivery systems, considerations regarding vaccine safety, the longevity of the immune response, strategies for modifying the original mRNA vaccine to address emerging mutant strains, as well as addressing vaccine hesitancy and potential approaches to mitigate reluctance. EXPERT OPINION Challenges such as stability, storage, manufacturing complexities, production capacity, allergic reactions, long-term effects, accessibility, and misinformation must be addressed. Despite these hurdles, mRNA vaccine technology holds promise for revolutionizing future vaccination strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheema Mir
- College of Veterinary Sciences, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, CA, USA
| | - Mohammad Mir
- College of Veterinary Sciences, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, CA, USA
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Gu J, Xu Z, Liu Q, Tang S, Zhang W, Xie S, Chen X, Chen J, Yong KT, Yang C, Xu G. Building a Better Silver Bullet: Current Status and Perspectives of Non-Viral Vectors for mRNA Vaccines. Adv Healthc Mater 2024; 13:e2302409. [PMID: 37964681 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202302409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 10/22/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines have exhibited great potential to replace conventional vaccines owing to their low risk of insertional mutagenesis, safety and efficacy, rapid and scalable production, and low-cost manufacturing. With the great achievements of chemical modification and sequence optimization methods of mRNA, the key to the success of mRNA vaccines is strictly dependent on safe and efficient gene vectors. Among various delivery platforms, non-viral mRNA vectors could represent perfect choices for future clinical translation regarding their safety, sufficient packaging capability, low immunogenicity, and versatility. In this review, the recent progress in the development of non-viral mRNA vectors is focused on. Various organic vectors including lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), polymers, peptides, and exosomes for efficient mRNA delivery are presented and summarized. Furthermore, the latest advances in clinical trials of mRNA vaccines are described. Finally, the current challenges and future possibilities for the clinical translation of these promising mRNA vectors are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiayu Gu
- Department of Pharmacy, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan, University, The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen, 518020, China
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Biomedical Measurements and Ultrasound Imaging, School of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen, 518060, China
| | - Zhourui Xu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Biomedical Measurements and Ultrasound Imaging, School of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen, 518060, China
| | - Qiqi Liu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Biomedical Measurements and Ultrasound Imaging, School of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen, 518060, China
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine Institute, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Shenzhen Baoan Women's and Children's Hospital, Shenzhen, 518102, China
| | - Shiqi Tang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Biomedical Measurements and Ultrasound Imaging, School of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen, 518060, China
| | - Wenguang Zhang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Biomedical Measurements and Ultrasound Imaging, School of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen, 518060, China
| | - Shouxia Xie
- Department of Pharmacy, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan, University, The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen, 518020, China
- Shenzhen Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Shenzhen People's Hospital, Shenzhen, 518020, China
| | - Xiaoyan Chen
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine Institute, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Shenzhen Baoan Women's and Children's Hospital, Shenzhen, 518102, China
| | - Jiajie Chen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen, 518060, China
| | - Ken-Tye Yong
- School of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, 2006, Australia
| | - Chengbin Yang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Biomedical Measurements and Ultrasound Imaging, School of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen, 518060, China
| | - Gaixia Xu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Biomedical Measurements and Ultrasound Imaging, School of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen, 518060, China
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Jia Y, Wang X, Li L, Li F, Zhang J, Liang XJ. Lipid Nanoparticles Optimized for Targeting and Release of Nucleic Acid. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2305300. [PMID: 37547955 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202305300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) are currently the most promising clinical nucleic acids drug delivery vehicles. LNPs prevent the degradation of cargo nucleic acids during blood circulation. Upon entry into the cell, specific components of the lipid nanoparticles can promote the endosomal escape of nucleic acids. These are the basic properties of lipid nanoparticles as nucleic acid carriers. As LNPs exhibit hepatic aggregation characteristics, enhancing targeting out of the liver is a crucial way to improve LNPs administrated in vivo. Meanwhile, endosomal escape of nucleic acids loaded in LNPs is often considered inadequate, and therefore, much effort is devoted to enhancing the intracellular release efficiency of nucleic acids. Here, different strategies to efficiently deliver nucleic acid delivery from LNPs are concluded and their mechanisms are investigated. In addition, based on the information on LNPs that are in clinical trials or have completed clinical trials, the issues that are necessary to be approached in the clinical translation of LNPs are discussed, which it is hoped will shed light on the development of LNP nucleic acid drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaru Jia
- College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Diagnosis of the Ministry of Education, Chemical Biology Key Laboratory of HeBei University, Baoding, 071002, P. R. China
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology of China, No. 11, First North Road, Zhongguancun, Beijing, 100190, P. R. China
| | - Xiuguang Wang
- College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Diagnosis of the Ministry of Education, Chemical Biology Key Laboratory of HeBei University, Baoding, 071002, P. R. China
| | - Luwei Li
- College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Diagnosis of the Ministry of Education, Chemical Biology Key Laboratory of HeBei University, Baoding, 071002, P. R. China
| | - Fangzhou Li
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology of China, No. 11, First North Road, Zhongguancun, Beijing, 100190, P. R. China
| | - Jinchao Zhang
- College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Diagnosis of the Ministry of Education, Chemical Biology Key Laboratory of HeBei University, Baoding, 071002, P. R. China
| | - Xing-Jie Liang
- College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Diagnosis of the Ministry of Education, Chemical Biology Key Laboratory of HeBei University, Baoding, 071002, P. R. China
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology of China, No. 11, First North Road, Zhongguancun, Beijing, 100190, P. R. China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, P. R. China
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43
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Patel SK, Billingsley MM, Mukalel AJ, Thatte AS, Hamilton AG, Gong N, El-Mayta R, Safford HC, Merolle M, Mitchell MJ. Bile acid-containing lipid nanoparticles enhance extrahepatic mRNA delivery. Theranostics 2024; 14:1-16. [PMID: 38164140 PMCID: PMC10750194 DOI: 10.7150/thno.89913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) have emerged as a viable, clinically-validated platform for the delivery of mRNA therapeutics. LNPs have been utilized as mRNA delivery systems for applications including vaccines, gene therapy, and cancer immunotherapy. However, LNPs, which are typically composed of ionizable lipids, cholesterol, helper lipids, and lipid-anchored polyethylene glycol, often traffic to the liver which limits the therapeutic potential of the platform. Several approaches have been proposed to resolve this tropism such as post-synthesis surface modification or the addition of synthetic cationic lipids. Methods: Here, we present a strategy for achieving extrahepatic delivery of mRNA involving the incorporation of bile acids, a naturally-occurring class of cholesterol analogs, during LNP synthesis. We synthesized a series of bile acid-containing C14-4 LNPs by replacing cholesterol with bile acids (cholic acid, chenodeoxycholic acid, deoxycholic acid, or lithocholic acid) at various ratios. Results: Bile acid-containing LNPs (BA-LNPs) were able to reduce delivery to liver cells in vitro and improve delivery in a variety of other cell types, including T cells, B cells, and epithelial cells. Our subsequent in vivo screening of selected LNP candidates injected intraperitoneally or intravenously identified a highly spleen tropic BA-LNP: CA-100, a four-component LNP containing cholic acid and no cholesterol. These screens also identified BA-LNP candidates demonstrating promise for other mRNA therapeutic applications such as for gastrointestinal or immune cell delivery. We further found that the substitution of cholic acid for cholesterol in an LNP formulation utilizing a different ionizable lipid, C12-200, also shifted mRNA delivery from the liver to the spleen, suggesting that this cholic acid replacement strategy may be generalizable. Conclusion: These results demonstrate the potential of a four-component BA-LNP formulation, CA-100, for extrahepatic mRNA delivery that could potentially be utilized for a range of therapeutic and vaccine applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Savan K. Patel
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | | | - Alvin J. Mukalel
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Ajay S. Thatte
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Alex G. Hamilton
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Ningqiang Gong
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Rakan El-Mayta
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Hannah C. Safford
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Maria Merolle
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Michael J. Mitchell
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Abramson Cancer Center, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Institute for Immunology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Cardiovascular Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Penn Institute for RNA Innovation, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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44
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Silva MJSA, Zhang Y, Vinck R, Santos FMF, António JPM, Gourdon-Grünewaldt L, Zaouter C, Castonguay A, Patten SA, Cariou K, Boscá F, Nájera F, Arteaga JF, Gasser G, Pischel U, Gois PMP. BASHY Dyes Are Highly Efficient Lipid Droplet-Targeting Photosensitizers that Induce Ferroptosis through Lipid Peroxidation. Bioconjug Chem 2023; 34:2337-2344. [PMID: 37948301 DOI: 10.1021/acs.bioconjchem.3c00449] [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: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent lipid-peroxidation-driven mechanism of cell death and a promising therapeutic target to eradicate cancer cells. In this study, we discovered that boronic acid-derived salicylidenehydrazone (BASHY) dyes are highly efficient singlet-oxygen photosensitizers (PSs; ΦΔ up to 0.8) that induce ferroptosis triggered by photodynamic therapy. The best-performing BASHY dye displayed a high phototoxicity against the human glioblastoma multiform U87 cell line, with an IC50 value in the low nanomolar range (4.40 nM) and a remarkable phototoxicity index (PI > 22,700). Importantly, BASHY dyes were shown to accumulate in lipid droplets (LDs) and this intracellular partition was found to be essential for the enhanced phototoxicity and the induction of ferroptosis through lipid peroxidation. The safety and phototoxicity of this platform were validated using an in vivo zebrafish model (Danio rerio).
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria J S A Silva
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa 1649-003, Portugal
- Chimie ParisTech, PSL University, CNRS, Institute of Chemistry for Life and Health Sciences, Laboratory for Inorganic Chemical Biology, Paris F-75005, France
| | - Yiyi Zhang
- Chimie ParisTech, PSL University, CNRS, Institute of Chemistry for Life and Health Sciences, Laboratory for Inorganic Chemical Biology, Paris F-75005, France
| | - Robin Vinck
- Chimie ParisTech, PSL University, CNRS, Institute of Chemistry for Life and Health Sciences, Laboratory for Inorganic Chemical Biology, Paris F-75005, France
| | - Fábio M F Santos
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa 1649-003, Portugal
| | - João P M António
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa 1649-003, Portugal
| | - Lisa Gourdon-Grünewaldt
- Chimie ParisTech, PSL University, CNRS, Institute of Chemistry for Life and Health Sciences, Laboratory for Inorganic Chemical Biology, Paris F-75005, France
- INRS - Institut Armand-Frappier, Université du Québec, 531 boul. des Prairies, Laval , QuebecH7V 1B7, Canada
| | - Charlotte Zaouter
- INRS - Institut Armand-Frappier, Université du Québec, 531 boul. des Prairies, Laval , QuebecH7V 1B7, Canada
| | - Annie Castonguay
- INRS - Institut Armand-Frappier, Université du Québec, 531 boul. des Prairies, Laval , QuebecH7V 1B7, Canada
| | - Shunmoogum A Patten
- INRS - Institut Armand-Frappier, Université du Québec, 531 boul. des Prairies, Laval , QuebecH7V 1B7, Canada
| | - Kevin Cariou
- Chimie ParisTech, PSL University, CNRS, Institute of Chemistry for Life and Health Sciences, Laboratory for Inorganic Chemical Biology, Paris F-75005, France
| | - Francisco Boscá
- Instituto de Tecnología Química, Universitat Politècnica de València - Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Avda. de los Naranjos s/n, Valencia 46022, Spain
| | - Francisco Nájera
- Departamento de Química Orgánica, and Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga y Plataforma en Nanomedicina - IBIMA, Universidad de Málaga, Campus Teatinos s/n, 29071, Plataforma Bionand, Parque Tecnológico de Andalucía, Málaga 29590, Spain
| | - Jesús F Arteaga
- CIQSO-Centre for Research in Sustainable Chemistry and Department of Chemistry, University of Huelva, Campus de El Carmen s/n, Huelva 21071, Spain
| | - Gilles Gasser
- Chimie ParisTech, PSL University, CNRS, Institute of Chemistry for Life and Health Sciences, Laboratory for Inorganic Chemical Biology, Paris F-75005, France
| | - Uwe Pischel
- CIQSO-Centre for Research in Sustainable Chemistry and Department of Chemistry, University of Huelva, Campus de El Carmen s/n, Huelva 21071, Spain
| | - Pedro M P Gois
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa 1649-003, Portugal
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45
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Cheng L, Zhu Y, Ma J, Aggarwal A, Toh WH, Shin C, Sangpachatanaruk W, Weng G, Kumar R, Mao HQ. Machine Learning Elucidates Design Features of Plasmid DNA Lipid Nanoparticles for Cell Type-Preferential Transfection. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.12.07.570602. [PMID: 38106206 PMCID: PMC10723465 DOI: 10.1101/2023.12.07.570602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
For cell and gene therapies to become more broadly accessible, it is critical to develop and optimize non-viral cell type-preferential gene carriers such as lipid nanoparticles (LNPs). Despite the effectiveness of high throughput screening (HTS) approaches in expediting LNP discovery, they are often costly, labor-intensive, and often do not provide actionable LNP design rules that focus screening efforts on the most relevant chemical and formulation parameters. Here we employed a machine learning (ML) workflow using well-curated plasmid DNA LNP transfection datasets across six cell types to maximize chemical insights from HTS studies and has achieved predictions with 5-9% error on average depending on cell type. By applying Shapley additive explanations to our ML models, we unveiled composition-function relationships dictating cell type-preferential LNP transfection efficiency. Notably, we identified consistent LNP composition parameters that enhance in vitro transfection efficiency across diverse cell types, such as ionizable to helper lipid ratios near 1:1 or 10:1 and the incorporation of cationic/zwitterionic helper lipids. In addition, several parameters were found to modulate cell type-preferentiality, including the ionizable and helper lipid total molar percentage, N/P ratio, cholesterol to PEGylated lipid ratio, and the chemical identity of the helper lipid. This study leverages HTS of compositionally diverse LNP libraries and ML analysis to understand the interactions between lipid components in LNP formulations; and offers fundamental insights that contribute to the establishment of unique sets of LNP compositions tailored for cell type-preferential transfection.
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46
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Geng C, Zhou K, Yan Y, Li C, Ni B, Liu J, Wang Y, Zhang X, Wang D, Lv L, Zhou Y, Feng A, Wang Y, Li C. A preparation method for mRNA-LNPs with improved properties. J Control Release 2023; 364:632-643. [PMID: 37956926 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2023.11.017] [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: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/20/2023]
Abstract
The properties of mRNA lipid nanoparticles (mRNA-LNPs), including size, empty particles, morphology, storage stability, and transfection potency, are critically dependent on the preparation methods. Here, a Two-step tangential-flow filtration (TFF) method was successfully employed to improve the properties of mRNA-LNPs during the preparation process. This method involves an additional ethanol removal step prior to the particle fusion process. Notably, this innovative approach has yielded mRNA-LNPs with larger particles, a reduced proportion of empty LNPs, optimized storage stability (at least 6 months at 2-8 °C), improved in vitro transfection efficiency, and minimized distribution in the heart and blood in vivo. In summary, this study represents the implementation of the innovative Two-step TFF method in the preparation of mRNA-LNPs. Our findings indicate substantial enhancements in the properties of our mRNA-LNPs, specifically with regard to the percentage of empty LNPs, stability, transfection efficiency, and in vivo distribution. These improvements have the potential to optimize their industrial applicability and expand their clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cong Geng
- School of Pharmacy, Hebei Medical University, 361 East Zhongshan Road, Shijiazhuang 050017, PR China.
| | - Kefan Zhou
- School of Pharmacy, Hebei Medical University, 361 East Zhongshan Road, Shijiazhuang 050017, PR China.
| | - Ying Yan
- CSPC Pharmaceutical Group Co., Ltd., 896 East Zhongshan Road, Shijiazhuang 050035, PR China.
| | - Chan Li
- CSPC Pharmaceutical Group Co., Ltd., 896 East Zhongshan Road, Shijiazhuang 050035, PR China.
| | - Beibei Ni
- CSPC Pharmaceutical Group Co., Ltd., 896 East Zhongshan Road, Shijiazhuang 050035, PR China.
| | - Jiangman Liu
- CSPC Pharmaceutical Group Co., Ltd., 896 East Zhongshan Road, Shijiazhuang 050035, PR China.
| | - Yeming Wang
- CSPC Pharmaceutical Group Co., Ltd., 896 East Zhongshan Road, Shijiazhuang 050035, PR China.
| | - Xiaoyan Zhang
- CSPC Pharmaceutical Group Co., Ltd., 896 East Zhongshan Road, Shijiazhuang 050035, PR China.
| | - Dazhuang Wang
- CSPC Pharmaceutical Group Co., Ltd., 896 East Zhongshan Road, Shijiazhuang 050035, PR China.
| | - Lu Lv
- CSPC Pharmaceutical Group Co., Ltd., 896 East Zhongshan Road, Shijiazhuang 050035, PR China.
| | - Yongchuan Zhou
- School of Pharmacy, Hebei Medical University, 361 East Zhongshan Road, Shijiazhuang 050017, PR China.
| | - Anhua Feng
- School of Pharmacy, Hebei Medical University, 361 East Zhongshan Road, Shijiazhuang 050017, PR China.
| | - Yajuan Wang
- CSPC Pharmaceutical Group Co., Ltd., 896 East Zhongshan Road, Shijiazhuang 050035, PR China; State Key Laboratory of New Pharmaceutical Preparations and Excipients, Shijiazhuang 050035, PR China.
| | - Chunlei Li
- School of Pharmacy, Hebei Medical University, 361 East Zhongshan Road, Shijiazhuang 050017, PR China; CSPC Pharmaceutical Group Co., Ltd., 896 East Zhongshan Road, Shijiazhuang 050035, PR China; Hebei Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Research and Evaluation, Shijiazhuang 050017, PR China; State Key Laboratory of New Pharmaceutical Preparations and Excipients, Shijiazhuang 050035, PR China.
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Zong Y, Lin Y, Wei T, Cheng Q. Lipid Nanoparticle (LNP) Enables mRNA Delivery for Cancer Therapy. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2303261. [PMID: 37196221 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202303261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Revised: 05/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Messenger RNA (mRNA) has received great attention in the prevention and treatment of various diseases due to the success of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) mRNA vaccines (Comirnaty and Spikevax). To meet the therapeutic purpose, it is required that mRNA must enter the target cells and express sufficient proteins. Therefore, the development of effective delivery systems is necessary and crucial. Lipid nanoparticle (LNP) represents a remarkable vehicle that has indeed accelerated mRNA applications in humans, as several mRNA-based therapies have already been approved or are in clinical trials. In this review, the focus is on mRNA-LNP-mediated anticancer therapy. It summarizes the main development strategies of mRNA-LNP formulations, discusses representative therapeutic approaches in cancer, and points out current challenges and possible future directions of this research field. It is hoped that these delivered messages can help further improve the application of mRNA-LNP technology in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zong
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Future Technology, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Yi Lin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Future Technology, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Tuo Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, 100101, China
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Qiang Cheng
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Future Technology, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
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48
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Wang EY, Sarmadi M, Ying B, Jaklenec A, Langer R. Recent advances in nano- and micro-scale carrier systems for controlled delivery of vaccines. Biomaterials 2023; 303:122345. [PMID: 37918182 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2023.122345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
Vaccines provide substantial safety against infectious diseases, saving millions of lives each year. The recent COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of vaccination in providing mass-scale immunization against outbreaks. However, the delivery of vaccines imposes a unique set of challenges due to their large molecular size and low room temperature stability. Advanced biomaterials and delivery systems such as nano- and mciro-scale carriers are becoming critical components for successful vaccine development. In this review, we provide an updated overview of recent advances in the development of nano- and micro-scale carriers for controlled delivery of vaccines, focusing on carriers compatible with nucleic acid-based vaccines and therapeutics that emerged amid the recent pandemic. We start by detailing nano-scale delivery systems, focusing on nanoparticles, then move on to microscale systems including hydrogels, microparticles, and 3D printed microneedle patches. Additionally, we delve into emerging methods that move beyond traditional needle-based applications utilizing innovative delivery systems. Future challenges for clinical translation and manufacturing in this rapidly advancing field are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika Yan Wang
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Morteza Sarmadi
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Binbin Ying
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA; Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endoscopy, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Ana Jaklenec
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA.
| | - Robert Langer
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA.
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Putri AD, Hsu MJ, Han CL, Chao FC, Hsu CH, Lorenz CD, Hsieh CM. Differential cellular responses to FDA-approved nanomedicines: an exploration of albumin-based nanocarriers and liposomes in protein corona formation. NANOSCALE 2023; 15:17825-17838. [PMID: 37850423 DOI: 10.1039/d3nr04862d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2023]
Abstract
Albumin nanoparticles (NPs) and PEGylated liposomes have garnered tremendous interest as therapeutic drug carriers due to their unique physicochemical properties. These unique properties also have significant effects on the composition and structure of the protein corona formed around these NPs in a biological environment. Herein, protein corona formation on albumin NPs and liposomes was simultaneously evaluated through in vitro and simulation studies. The sizes of both types of NPs increased with more negatively charged interfaces upon being introduced into fetal bovine serum. Gel electrophoresis and label-free quantitative proteomics were performed to identify proteins recruited to the hard corona, and fewer proteins were found in albumin NPs than in liposomes, which is in accordance with isothermal titration calorimetry. The cellular uptake efficiency of the two NPs significantly differed in different serum concentrations, which was further scrutinized by loading an anticancer compound into albumin NPs. The presence of the hard protein corona increased the cellular uptake of albumin NPs in comparison with liposomes. In our simulation study, a specific receptor present in the membrane was greatly attracted to the albumin-apolipoprotein E complex. Overall, this study not only evaluated protein corona formation on albumin NPs, but also made promising advancements toward albumin- and liposome-based therapeutic systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Athika Darumas Putri
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan.
- Semarang College of Pharmaceutical Sciences (STIFAR), Semarang City, 50192, Indonesia
| | - Ming-Jen Hsu
- Department of Pharmacology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Li Han
- Master Program in Clinical Genomics and Proteomics, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan
| | - Fang-Ching Chao
- Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS UMR 8612, Institut Galien Paris-Saclay, Châtenay-Malabry, France
| | - Chun-Hua Hsu
- Department of Agricultural Chemistry, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 10617, Taiwan
| | - Christian D Lorenz
- Biological Physics and Soft Matter Group, Department of Physics, King's College London, London WC2R 2LS, UK
| | - Chien-Ming Hsieh
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan.
- Ph.D. Program in Drug Discovery and Development Industry, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan
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Truzzi E, Bertelli D, Bilia AR, Vanti G, Maretti E, Leo E. Combination of Nanodelivery Systems and Constituents Derived from Novel Foods: A Comprehensive Review. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2614. [PMID: 38004592 PMCID: PMC10674267 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15112614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Novel Food is a new category of food, regulated by the European Union Directive No. 2015/2283. This latter norm defines a food as "Novel" if it was not used "for human consumption to a significant degree within the Union before the date of entry into force of that regulation, namely 15 May 1997". Recently, Novel Foods have received increased interest from researchers worldwide. In this sense, the key areas of interest are the discovery of new benefits for human health and the exploitation of these novel sources of materials in new fields of application. An emerging area in the pharmaceutical and medicinal fields is nanotechnology, which deals with the development of new delivery systems at a nanometric scale. In this context, this review aims to summarize the recent advances on the design and characterization of nanodelivery systems based on materials belonging to the Novel Food list, as well as on nanoceutical products formulated for delivering compounds derived from Novel Foods. Additionally, the safety hazard of using nanoparticles in food products, i.e., food supplements, has been discussed in view of the current European regulation, which considers nanomaterials as Novel Foods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora Truzzi
- Department of Chemical and Geological Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi 103, 41125 Modena, Italy;
| | - Davide Bertelli
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi 103, 41125 Modena, Italy;
| | - Anna Rita Bilia
- Department of Chemistry “Ugo Schiff” (DICUS), University of Florence, Via Ugo Schiff 6, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Italy; (A.R.B.); (G.V.)
| | - Giulia Vanti
- Department of Chemistry “Ugo Schiff” (DICUS), University of Florence, Via Ugo Schiff 6, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Italy; (A.R.B.); (G.V.)
| | - Eleonora Maretti
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi 103, 41125 Modena, Italy;
| | - Eliana Leo
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi 103, 41125 Modena, Italy;
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