1
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Ball JB, Frank MG, Green-Fulgham SM, Watkins LR. Use of adeno-associated viruses for transgenic modulation of microglia structure and function: A review of technical considerations and challenges. Brain Behav Immun 2024; 118:368-379. [PMID: 38471576 PMCID: PMC11103248 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2024.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/03/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Microglia play a central role in the etiology of many neuropathologies. Transgenic tools are a powerful experiment approach to gain reliable and specific control over microglia function. Adeno-associated virus (AAVs) vectors are already an indispensable tool in neuroscience research. Despite ubiquitous use of AAVs and substantial interest in the role of microglia in the study of central nervous system (CNS) function and disease, transduction of microglia using AAVs is seldom reported. This review explores the challenges and advancements made in using AAVs for expressing transgenes in microglia. First, we will examine the functional anatomy of the AAV capsid, which will serve as a basis for subsequent discussions of studies exploring the relationship between capsid mutations and microglia transduction efficacy. After outlining the functional anatomy of AAVs, we will consider the experimental evidence demonstrating AAV-mediated transduction of microglia and microglia-like cell lines followed by an examination of the most promising experimental approaches identified in the literature. Finally, technical limitations will be considered in future applications of AAV experimental approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jayson B Ball
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, and the Center for Neuroscience, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80309, USA.
| | - Matthew G Frank
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, and the Center for Neuroscience, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80309, USA
| | - Suzanne M Green-Fulgham
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, and the Center for Neuroscience, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80309, USA
| | - Linda R Watkins
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, and the Center for Neuroscience, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80309, USA
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2
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Yadav D, Malviya R. Vector-Mediated Delivery of Transgenes and RNA Interference-Based Gene Silencing Sequences to Astrocytes for Disease Management: Advances and Prospectives. Curr Gene Ther 2024; 24:110-121. [PMID: 37921145 DOI: 10.2174/0115665232264527231013072728] [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: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
Astrocytes are a type of important glial cell in the brain that serve crucial functions in regulating neuronal activity, facilitating communication between neurons, and keeping everything in balance. In this abstract, we explore current methods and future approaches for using vectors to precisely target astrocytes in the fight against various illnesses. In order to deliver therapeutic cargo selectively to astrocytes, researchers have made tremendous progress by using viral vectors such as adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) and lentiviruses. It has been established that engineered viral vectors are capable of either crossing the blood-brain barrier (BBB) or being delivered intranasally, which facilitates their entrance into the brain parenchyma. These vectors are able to contain transgenes that code for neuroprotective factors, synaptic modulators, or anti-inflammatory medicines, which pave the way for multiple approaches to disease intervention. Strategies based on RNA interference (RNAi) make vector-mediated astrocyte targeting much more likely to work. Small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) and short hairpin RNAs (shRNAs) are two types of RNA that can be made to silence disease-related genes in astrocytes. Vector-mediated delivery in conjunction with RNAi techniques provides a powerful toolkit for investigating the complex biological pathways that contribute to disease development. However, there are still a number of obstacles to overcome in order to perfect the specificity, safety, and duration of vector-mediated astrocyte targeting. In order to successfully translate research findings into clinical practise, it is essential to minimise off-target effects and the risk of immunogenicity. To demonstrate the therapeutic effectiveness of these strategies, rigorous preclinical investigation and validation are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepika Yadav
- 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
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3
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Rao D, Kwak G, Wang H, Eberhart CG, Hanes J, Suk JS. Bioreducible Gene Delivery Platform that Promotes Intracellular Payload Release and Widespread Brain Dispersion. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2023; 9:4567-4572. [PMID: 37523785 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.3c00799] [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: 08/02/2023]
Abstract
We here introduce a novel bioreducible polymer-based gene delivery platform enabling widespread transgene expression in multiple brain regions with therapeutic relevance following intracranial convection-enhanced delivery. Our bioreducible nanoparticles provide markedly enhanced gene delivery efficacy in vitro and in vivo compared to nonbiodegradable nanoparticles primarily due to the ability to release gene payloads preferentially inside cells. Remarkably, our platform exhibits competitive gene delivery efficacy in a neuron-rich brain region compared to a viral vector under previous and current clinical investigations with demonstrated positive outcomes. Thus, our platform may serve as an attractive alternative for the intracranial gene therapy of neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Divya Rao
- Center for Nanomedicine at Wilmer Eye Institute, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21231, United States
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Whiting School of Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
| | - Gijung Kwak
- Center for Nanomedicine at Wilmer Eye Institute, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21231, United States
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21231, United States
| | - Heng Wang
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Whiting School of Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
| | - Charles G Eberhart
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21231, United States
- Department of Neuropathology, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21231, United States
| | - Justin Hanes
- Center for Nanomedicine at Wilmer Eye Institute, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21231, United States
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Whiting School of Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21231, United States
| | - Jung Soo Suk
- Center for Nanomedicine at Wilmer Eye Institute, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21231, United States
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Whiting School of Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21231, United States
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4
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Ju WK, Perkins GA, Kim KY, Bastola T, Choi WY, Choi SH. Glaucomatous optic neuropathy: Mitochondrial dynamics, dysfunction and protection in retinal ganglion cells. Prog Retin Eye Res 2023; 95:101136. [PMID: 36400670 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2022.101136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Glaucoma is a leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide and is characterized by a slow, progressive, and multifactorial degeneration of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and their axons, resulting in vision loss. Despite its high prevalence in individuals 60 years of age and older, the causing factors contributing to glaucoma progression are currently not well characterized. Intraocular pressure (IOP) is the only proven treatable risk factor. However, lowering IOP is insufficient for preventing disease progression. One of the significant interests in glaucoma pathogenesis is understanding the structural and functional impairment of mitochondria in RGCs and their axons and synapses. Glaucomatous risk factors such as IOP elevation, aging, genetic variation, neuroinflammation, neurotrophic factor deprivation, and vascular dysregulation, are potential inducers for mitochondrial dysfunction in glaucoma. Because oxidative phosphorylation stress-mediated mitochondrial dysfunction is associated with structural and functional impairment of mitochondria in glaucomatous RGCs, understanding the underlying mechanisms and relationship between structural and functional alterations in mitochondria would be beneficial to developing mitochondria-related neuroprotection in RGCs and their axons and synapses against glaucomatous neurodegeneration. Here, we review the current studies focusing on mitochondrial dynamics-based structural and functional alterations in the mitochondria of glaucomatous RGCs and therapeutic strategies to protect RGCs against glaucomatous neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Won-Kyu Ju
- Hamilton Glaucoma Center and Viterbi Family Department of Ophthalmology and Shiley Eye Institute, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA.
| | - Guy A Perkins
- National Center for Microscopy and Imaging Research, Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Keun-Young Kim
- National Center for Microscopy and Imaging Research, Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Tonking Bastola
- Hamilton Glaucoma Center and Viterbi Family Department of Ophthalmology and Shiley Eye Institute, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Woo-Young Choi
- Hamilton Glaucoma Center and Viterbi Family Department of Ophthalmology and Shiley Eye Institute, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA; Department of Plastic Surgery, College of Medicine, Chosun University, Gwang-ju, South Korea
| | - Soo-Ho Choi
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
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5
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Golm SK, Hübner W, Müller KM. Fluorescence Microscopy in Adeno-Associated Virus Research. Viruses 2023; 15:v15051174. [PMID: 37243260 DOI: 10.3390/v15051174] [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: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Research on adeno-associated virus (AAV) and its recombinant vectors as well as on fluorescence microscopy imaging is rapidly progressing driven by clinical applications and new technologies, respectively. The topics converge, since high and super-resolution microscopes facilitate the study of spatial and temporal aspects of cellular virus biology. Labeling methods also evolve and diversify. We review these interdisciplinary developments and provide information on the technologies used and the biological knowledge gained. The emphasis lies on the visualization of AAV proteins by chemical fluorophores, protein fusions and antibodies as well as on methods for the detection of adeno-associated viral DNA. We add a short overview of fluorescent microscope techniques and their advantages and challenges in detecting AAV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne K Golm
- Cellular and Molecular Biotechnology, Faculty of Technology, Bielefeld University, 33615 Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Hübner
- Biomolecular Photonics, Faculty of Physics, Bielefeld University, 33615 Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Kristian M Müller
- Cellular and Molecular Biotechnology, Faculty of Technology, Bielefeld University, 33615 Bielefeld, Germany
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6
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Kato M, Ishikawa S, Shen Q, Du Z, Katashima T, Naito M, Numahata T, Okazaki M, Sakai T, Kurita M. In situ-formable, dynamic crosslinked poly(ethylene glycol) carrier for localized adeno-associated virus infection and reduced off-target effects. Commun Biol 2023; 6:508. [PMID: 37193797 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-04851-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The adeno-associated virus (AAV) is a potent vector for in vivo gene transduction and local therapeutic applications of AAVs, such as for skin ulcers, are expected. Localization of gene expression is important for the safety and efficiency of genetic therapies. We hypothesized that gene expression could be localized by designing biomaterials using poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) as a carrier. Here we show one of the designed PEG carriers effectively localized gene expression on the ulcer surface and reduced off-target effects in the deep skin layer and the liver, as a representative organ to assess distant off-target effects, using a mouse skin ulcer model. The dissolution dynamics resulted in localization of the AAV gene transduction. The designed PEG carrier may be useful for in vivo gene therapies using AAVs, especially for localized expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Motoi Kato
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shohei Ishikawa
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Qi Shen
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Zening Du
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takuya Katashima
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mitsuru Naito
- Center for Disease Biology and Integrative Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takao Numahata
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mutsumi Okazaki
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takamasa Sakai
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Masakazu Kurita
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan.
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7
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Campos LJ, Arokiaraj CM, Chuapoco MR, Chen X, Goeden N, Gradinaru V, Fox AS. Advances in AAV technology for delivering genetically encoded cargo to the nonhuman primate nervous system. CURRENT RESEARCH IN NEUROBIOLOGY 2023; 4:100086. [PMID: 37397806 PMCID: PMC10313870 DOI: 10.1016/j.crneur.2023.100086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 02/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Modern neuroscience approaches including optogenetics, calcium imaging, and other genetic manipulations have facilitated our ability to dissect specific circuits in rodent models to study their role in neurological disease. These approaches regularly use viral vectors to deliver genetic cargo (e.g., opsins) to specific tissues and genetically-engineered rodents to achieve cell-type specificity. However, the translatability of these rodent models, cross-species validation of identified targets, and translational efficacy of potential therapeutics in larger animal models like nonhuman primates remains difficult due to the lack of efficient primate viral vectors. A refined understanding of the nonhuman primate nervous system promises to deliver insights that can guide the development of treatments for neurological and neurodegenerative diseases. Here, we outline recent advances in the development of adeno-associated viral vectors for optimized use in nonhuman primates. These tools promise to help open new avenues for study in translational neuroscience and further our understanding of the primate brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lillian J. Campos
- Department of Psychology and the California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, CA, 05616, USA
- Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, 20815, USA
| | - Cynthia M. Arokiaraj
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, 91125, USA
- Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, 20815, USA
| | - Miguel R. Chuapoco
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, 91125, USA
- Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, 20815, USA
| | - Xinhong Chen
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, 91125, USA
| | - Nick Goeden
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, 91125, USA
- Capsida Biotherapeutics, Thousand Oaks, CA, 91320, USA
| | - Viviana Gradinaru
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, 91125, USA
- Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, 20815, USA
| | - Andrew S. Fox
- Department of Psychology and the California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, CA, 05616, USA
- Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, 20815, USA
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8
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Heller G, Bradbury AM, Sands MS, Bongarzone ER. Preclinical studies in Krabbe disease: A model for the investigation of novel combination therapies for lysosomal storage diseases. Mol Ther 2023; 31:7-23. [PMID: 36196048 PMCID: PMC9840155 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2022.09.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2022] [Revised: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Krabbe disease (KD) is a lysosomal storage disease (LSD) caused by mutations in the galc gene. There are over 50 monogenetic LSDs, which largely impede the normal development of children and often lead to premature death. At present, there are no cures for LSDs and the available treatments are generally insufficient, short acting, and not without co-morbidities or long-term side effects. The last 30 years have seen significant advances in our understanding of LSD pathology as well as treatment options. Two gene therapy-based clinical trials, NCT04693598 and NCT04771416, for KD were recently started based on those advances. This review will discuss how our knowledge of KD got to where it is today, focusing on preclinical investigations, and how what was discovered may prove beneficial for the treatment of other LSDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory Heller
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, 808 S. Wood St M/C 512, Chicago, IL, USA.
| | - Allison M Bradbury
- Center for Gene Therapy, Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA; Abigail Wexner Research Institute Nationwide Children's Hospital Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43205, USA.
| | - Mark S Sands
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, 660 South Euclid Avenue Box 8007, St. Louis, MO, USA; Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, 660 South Euclid Avenue Box 8007, St. Louis, MO, USA.
| | - Ernesto R Bongarzone
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, 808 S. Wood St M/C 512, Chicago, IL, USA.
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9
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Eftekharpour E, Shcholok T. Cre-recombinase systems for induction of neuron-specific knockout models: a guide for biomedical researchers. Neural Regen Res 2023; 18:273-279. [PMID: 35900402 PMCID: PMC9396489 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.346541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Gene deletion has been a valuable tool for unraveling the mysteries of molecular biology. Early approaches included gene trapping and gene targetting to disrupt or delete a gene randomly or at a specific location, respectively. Using these technologies in mouse embryos led to the generation of mouse knockout models and many scientific discoveries. The efficacy and specificity of these approaches have significantly increased with the advent of new technology such as clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats for targetted gene deletion. However, several limitations including unwanted off-target gene deletion have hindered their widespread use in the field. Cre-recombinase technology has provided additional capacity for cell-specific gene deletion. In this review, we provide a summary of currently available literature on the application of this system for targetted deletion of neuronal genes. This article has been constructed to provide some background information for the new trainees on the mechanism and to provide necessary information for the design, and application of the Cre-recombinase system through reviewing the most frequent promoters that are currently available for genetic manipulation of neurons. We additionally will provide a summary of the latest technological developments that can be used for targeting neurons. This may also serve as a general guide for the selection of appropriate models for biomedical research.
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Zhou K, Han J, Wang Y, Zhang Y, Zhu C. Routes of administration for adeno-associated viruses carrying gene therapies for brain diseases. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:988914. [PMID: 36385771 PMCID: PMC9643316 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.988914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Gene therapy is a powerful tool to treat various central nervous system (CNS) diseases ranging from monogenetic diseases to neurodegenerative disorders. Adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) have been widely used as the delivery vehicles for CNS gene therapies due to their safety, CNS tropism, and long-term therapeutic effect. However, several factors, including their ability to cross the blood-brain barrier, the efficiency of transduction, their immunotoxicity, loading capacity, the choice of serotype, and peripheral off-target effects should be carefully considered when designing an optimal AAV delivery strategy for a specific disease. In addition, distinct routes of administration may affect the efficiency and safety of AAV-delivered gene therapies. In this review, we summarize different administration routes of gene therapies delivered by AAVs to the brain in mice and rats. Updated knowledge regarding AAV-delivered gene therapies may facilitate the selection from various administration routes for specific disease models in future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Zhou
- Henan Neurodevelopment Engineering Research Center for Children, Zhengzhou Key Laboratory of Pediatric Neurobehavior, Children’s Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jinming Han
- Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yafeng Wang
- Henan Neurodevelopment Engineering Research Center for Children, Zhengzhou Key Laboratory of Pediatric Neurobehavior, Children’s Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Children’s Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Henan Children’s Hospital, Zhengzhou Children’s Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yaodong Zhang
- Henan Neurodevelopment Engineering Research Center for Children, Zhengzhou Key Laboratory of Pediatric Neurobehavior, Children’s Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Changlian Zhu
- Henan Key Laboratory of Child Brain Injury and Henan Pediatric Clinical Research Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital and Institute of Neuroscience, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Centre for Brain Repair and Rehabilitation, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
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11
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Tkatch T, Rysevaite-Kyguoliene K, Sabeckis I, Sabeckiene D, Pauza DH, Baranauskas G. An efficient rAAV vector for protein expression in cortical parvalbumin expressing interneurons. Sci Rep 2022; 12:17851. [PMID: 36284123 PMCID: PMC9596399 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-21867-0] [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: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Recombinant adeno-associated viruses (rAAV) are extensively used in both research and clinical applications. Despite significant advances, there is a lack of short promoters able to drive the expression of virus delivered genes in specific classes of neurons. We designed an efficient rAAV vector suitable for the rAAV-mediated gene expression in cortical interneurons, mainly in the parvalbumin expressing cells. The vector includes a short parvalbumin promoter and a specialized poly(A) sequence. The degree of conservation of the parvalbumin gene adjoining non-coding regions was used in both the promoter design and the selection of the poly(A) sequence. The specificity was established by co-localizing the fluorescence of the virus delivered eGFP and the antibody for a neuronal marker. rAAV particles were injected in the visual cortex area V1/V2 of adult rats (2-4 months old). Neurons expressing the virus delivered eGFP were mainly positive for interneuronal markers: 66.5 ± 2.8% for parvalbumin, 14.6 ± 2.4% for somatostatin, 7.1 ± 1.2% for vasoactive intestinal peptide, 2.8 ± 0.6% for cholecystokinin. Meanwhile, only 2.1 ± 0.5% were positive for CaMKII, a marker for principal cells in the cortex. The efficiency of the construct was verified by optogenetic experiments: the expression of the virus delivered ChR2 channels was sufficient to evoke by blue light laser high frequency bursts of action potentials in putative fast spiking neurons. We conclude that our promoter allows highly specific expression of the rAAV delivered cDNAs in cortical interneurons with a strong preference for the parvalbumin positive cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatiana Tkatch
- grid.45083.3a0000 0004 0432 6841Neurophysiology Laboratory, Neuroscience Institute, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania ,grid.16753.360000 0001 2299 3507Present Address: Department of Physiology, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL USA
| | | | - Ignas Sabeckis
- grid.45083.3a0000 0004 0432 6841Anatomy Institute, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Deimante Sabeckiene
- grid.45083.3a0000 0004 0432 6841Anatomy Institute, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Dainius H. Pauza
- grid.45083.3a0000 0004 0432 6841Anatomy Institute, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Gytis Baranauskas
- grid.45083.3a0000 0004 0432 6841Neurophysiology Laboratory, Neuroscience Institute, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania
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12
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Naranjo O, Osborne O, Torices S, Toborek M. In Vivo Targeting of the Neurovascular Unit: Challenges and Advancements. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2022; 42:2131-2146. [PMID: 34086179 PMCID: PMC9056891 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-021-01113-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is essential for the homeostasis of the central nervous system (CNS). Functions of the BBB are performed by the neurovascular unit (NVU), which consists of endothelial cells, pericytes, astrocytes, microglia, basement membrane, and neurons. NVU cells interact closely and together are responsible for neurovascular coupling, BBB integrity, and transendothelial fluid transport. Studies have shown that NVU dysfunction is implicated in several acute and chronic neurological diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis, and stroke. The mechanisms of NVU disruption remain poorly understood, partially due to difficulties in selective targeting of NVU cells. In this review, we discuss the relative merits of available protein markers and drivers of the NVU along with recent advancements that have been made in the field to increase efficiency and specificity of NVU research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oandy Naranjo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Olivia Osborne
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Silvia Torices
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Michal Toborek
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, 33136, USA.
- Institute of Physiotherapy and Health Sciences, The Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education, Katowice, Poland.
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Miami School of Medicine, Gautier Bldg., Room 528, 1011 NW 15th Street, Miami, FL, 33136, USA.
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13
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Bauer A, Puglisi M, Nagl D, Schick JA, Werner T, Klingl A, El Andari J, Hornung V, Kessler H, Götz M, Grimm D, Brack‐Werner R. Molecular Signature of Astrocytes for Gene Delivery by the Synthetic Adeno-Associated Viral Vector rAAV9P1. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2022; 9:e2104979. [PMID: 35398994 PMCID: PMC9165502 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202104979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Astrocytes have crucial functions in the central nervous system (CNS) and are major players in many CNS diseases. Research on astrocyte-centered diseases requires efficient and well-characterized gene transfer vectors. Vectors derived from the Adeno-associated virus serotype 9 (AAV9) target astrocytes in the brains of rodents and nonhuman primates. A recombinant (r) synthetic peptide-displaying AAV9 variant, rAAV9P1, that efficiently and selectively transduces cultured human astrocytes, has been described previously. Here, it is shown that rAAV9P1 retains astrocyte-targeting properties upon intravenous injection in mice. Detailed analysis of putative receptors on human astrocytes shows that rAAV9P1 utilizes integrin subunits αv, β8, and either β3 or β5 as well as the AAV receptor AAVR. This receptor pattern is distinct from that of vectors derived from wildtype AAV2 or AAV9. Furthermore, a CRISPR/Cas9 genome-wide knockout screening revealed the involvement of several astrocyte-associated intracellular signaling pathways in the transduction of human astrocytes by rAAV9P1. This study delineates the unique receptor and intracellular pathway signatures utilized by rAAV9P1 for targeting human astrocytes. These results enhance the understanding of the transduction biology of synthetic rAAV vectors for astrocytes and can promote the development of advanced astrocyte-selective gene delivery vehicles for research and clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amelie Bauer
- Institute of VirologyHelmholtz Center MunichNeuherberg85764Germany
| | - Matteo Puglisi
- Physiological GenomicsBiomedical Center (BMC)Ludwig‐Maximilians‐Universität (LMU)Planegg‐Martinsried82152Germany
- Institute for Stem Cell ResearchHelmholtz Center MunichBiomedical Center (BMC)Ludwig‐Maximilians‐Universität (LMU)Planegg‐Martinsried82152Germany
| | - Dennis Nagl
- Gene Center and Department of BiochemistryLudwig‐Maximilians‐UniversitätMunich81377Germany
| | - Joel A Schick
- Institute of Molecular Toxicology and PharmacologyGenetics and Cellular Engineering GroupHelmholtz Center MunichNeuherberg85764Germany
| | - Thomas Werner
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics & Department of Internal MedicineUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMI48109USA
| | - Andreas Klingl
- Plant Development and Electron MicroscopyDepartment Biology IBiocenterLudwig‐Maximilians‐Universität (LMU)Planegg‐Martinsried82152Germany
| | - Jihad El Andari
- BioQuant Center and Cluster of Excellence CellNetworks at Heidelberg UniversityHeidelberg69120Germany
- Department of Infectious DiseasesVirologyMedical FacultyHeidelberg UniversityHeidelberg69120Germany
| | - Veit Hornung
- Gene Center and Department of BiochemistryLudwig‐Maximilians‐UniversitätMunich81377Germany
| | - Horst Kessler
- Institute for Advanced Study and Center of Integrated Protein Science (CIPSM)Department ChemieTechnische Universität MünchenGarching85748Germany
| | - Magdalena Götz
- Physiological GenomicsBiomedical Center (BMC)Ludwig‐Maximilians‐Universität (LMU)Planegg‐Martinsried82152Germany
- Institute for Stem Cell ResearchHelmholtz Center MunichBiomedical Center (BMC)Ludwig‐Maximilians‐Universität (LMU)Planegg‐Martinsried82152Germany
- Excellence Cluster of Systems Neurology (SYNERGY)Munich81377Germany
| | - Dirk Grimm
- BioQuant Center and Cluster of Excellence CellNetworks at Heidelberg UniversityHeidelberg69120Germany
- Department of Infectious DiseasesVirologyMedical FacultyHeidelberg UniversityHeidelberg69120Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF) and German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK)Partner site HeidelbergHeidelberg69120Germany
| | - Ruth Brack‐Werner
- Institute of VirologyHelmholtz Center MunichNeuherberg85764Germany
- Department of Biology IILudwig‐Maximilians‐Universität (LMU)Planegg‐Martinsried82152Germany
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14
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Kuklik J, Michelfelder S, Schiele F, Kreuz S, Lamla T, Müller P, Park JE. Development of a Bispecific Antibody-Based Platform for Retargeting of Capsid Modified AAV Vectors. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22158355. [PMID: 34361120 PMCID: PMC8347852 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22158355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Revised: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
A major limiting factor for systemically delivered gene therapies is the lack of novel tissue specific AAV (Adeno-associated virus) derived vectors. Bispecific antibodies can be used to redirect AAVs to specific target receptors. Here, we demonstrate that the insertion of a short linear epitope “2E3” derived from human proprotein-convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) into different surface loops of the VP capsid proteins can be used for AAV de-targeting from its natural receptor(s), combined with a bispecific antibody-mediated retargeting. We chose to target a set of distinct disease relevant membrane proteins—fibroblast activation protein (FAP), which is upregulated on activated fibroblasts within the tumor stroma and in fibrotic tissues, as well as programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1), which is strongly upregulated in many cancers. Upon incubation with a bispecific antibody recognizing the 2E3 epitope and FAP or PD-L1, the bispecific antibody/rAAV complex was able to selectively transduce receptor positive cells. In summary, we developed a novel, rationally designed vector retargeting platform that can target AAVs to a new set of cellular receptors in a modular fashion. This versatile platform may serve as a valuable tool to investigate the role of disease relevant cell types and basis for novel gene therapy approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliane Kuklik
- Division of Cancer Immunology and Immune Modulation, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, 88387 Biberach an der Riss, Germany;
| | - Stefan Michelfelder
- Division of Research Beyond Borders, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, 88387 Biberach an der Riss, Germany; (S.M.); (S.K.)
| | - Felix Schiele
- Division of Biotherapeutics Discovery, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, 88387 Biberach an der Riss, Germany;
| | - Sebastian Kreuz
- Division of Research Beyond Borders, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, 88387 Biberach an der Riss, Germany; (S.M.); (S.K.)
- Boehringer Ingelheim Venture Fund GmbH, 55216 Ingelheim am Rhein, Germany;
| | - Thorsten Lamla
- Division of Drug Discovery Sciences Biberach, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, 88387 Biberach an der Riss, Germany;
| | - Philipp Müller
- Boehringer Ingelheim Venture Fund GmbH, 55216 Ingelheim am Rhein, Germany;
| | - John E. Park
- Division of Cancer Immunology and Immune Modulation, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, 88387 Biberach an der Riss, Germany;
- Correspondence:
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15
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Abulimiti A, Lai MSL, Chang RCC. Applications of adeno-associated virus vector-mediated gene delivery for neurodegenerative diseases and psychiatric diseases: Progress, advances, and challenges. Mech Ageing Dev 2021; 199:111549. [PMID: 34352323 DOI: 10.1016/j.mad.2021.111549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Neurodegeneration is the most common disease in the elderly population due to its slowly progressive nature of neuronal deterioration, eventually leading to executive dysfunction. The pathological markers of neurological disorders are relatively well-established, however, detailed molecular mechanisms of progression and therapeutic targets are needed to develop novel treatments in human patients. Treating known therapeutic targets of neurological diseases has been aided by recent advancements in adeno-associated virus (AAV) technology. AAVs are known for their low-immunogenicity, blood-brain barrier (BBB) penetrating ability, selective neuronal tropism, stable transgene expression, and pleiotropy. In addition, the usage of AAVs has enormous potential to be optimized. Therefore, AAV can be a powerful tool used to uncover the underlying pathophysiology of neurological disorders and to increase the success in human gene therapy. This review summarizes different optimization approaches of AAV vectors with their current applications in disease modeling, neural tracing and gene therapy, hence exploring progressive mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases as well as effective therapy. Lastly, this review discusses the limitations and future perspectives of the AAV-mediated transgene delivery system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amina Abulimiti
- Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, School of Biomedical Science, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
| | - Michael Siu-Lun Lai
- Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, School of Biomedical Science, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
| | - Raymond Chuen-Chung Chang
- Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, School of Biomedical Science, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region; State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
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16
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von Jonquieres G, Rae CD, Housley GD. Emerging Concepts in Vector Development for Glial Gene Therapy: Implications for Leukodystrophies. Front Cell Neurosci 2021; 15:661857. [PMID: 34239416 PMCID: PMC8258421 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.661857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Central Nervous System (CNS) homeostasis and function rely on intercellular synchronization of metabolic pathways. Developmental and neurochemical imbalances arising from mutations are frequently associated with devastating and often intractable neurological dysfunction. In the absence of pharmacological treatment options, but with knowledge of the genetic cause underlying the pathophysiology, gene therapy holds promise for disease control. Consideration of leukodystrophies provide a case in point; we review cell type – specific expression pattern of the disease – causing genes and reflect on genetic and cellular treatment approaches including ex vivo hematopoietic stem cell gene therapies and in vivo approaches using adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors. We link recent advances in vectorology to glial targeting directed towards gene therapies for specific leukodystrophies and related developmental or neurometabolic disorders affecting the CNS white matter and frame strategies for therapy development in future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georg von Jonquieres
- Translational Neuroscience Facility, Department of Physiology, School of Medical Sciences, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Caroline D Rae
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Randwick, NSW, Australia
| | - Gary D Housley
- Translational Neuroscience Facility, Department of Physiology, School of Medical Sciences, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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17
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Poth KM, Texakalidis P, Boulis NM. Chemogenetics: Beyond Lesions and Electrodes. Neurosurgery 2021; 89:185-195. [PMID: 33913505 PMCID: PMC8279839 DOI: 10.1093/neuros/nyab147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The field of chemogenetics has rapidly expanded over the last decade, and engineered receptors are currently utilized in the lab to better understand molecular interactions in the nervous system. We propose that chemogenetic receptors can be used for far more than investigational purposes. The potential benefit of adding chemogenetic neuromodulation to the current neurosurgical toolkit is substantial. There are several conditions currently treated surgically, electrically, and pharmacologically in clinic, and this review highlights how chemogenetic neuromodulation could improve patient outcomes over current neurosurgical techniques. We aim to emphasize the need to take these techniques from bench to bedside.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly M Poth
- Department of Neurosurgery, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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18
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Brown BL, Zalla RM, Shepard CT, Howard RM, Kopechek JA, Magnuson DSK, Whittemore SR. Dual-Viral Transduction Utilizing Highly Efficient Retrograde Lentivirus Improves Labeling of Long Propriospinal Neurons. Front Neuroanat 2021; 15:635921. [PMID: 33828464 PMCID: PMC8019739 DOI: 10.3389/fnana.2021.635921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The nervous system coordinates pathways and circuits to process sensory information and govern motor behaviors. Mapping these pathways is important to further understand the connectivity throughout the nervous system and is vital for developing treatments for neuronal diseases and disorders. We targeted long ascending propriospinal neurons (LAPNs) in the rat spinal cord utilizing Fluoro-Ruby (FR) [10kD rhodamine dextran amine (RDA)], and two dual-viral systems. Dual-viral tracing utilizing a retrograde adeno-associated virus (retroAAV), which confers robust labeling in the brain, resulted in a small number of LAPNs being labeled, but dual-viral tracing using a highly efficient retrograde (HiRet) lentivirus provided robust labeling similar to FR. Additionally, dual-viral tracing with HiRet lentivirus and tracing with FR may preferentially label different subpopulations of LAPNs. These data demonstrate that dual-viral tracing in the spinal cord employing a HiRet lentivirus provides robust and specific labeling of LAPNs and emphasizes the need to empirically optimize viral systems to target specific neuronal population(s).
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandon L Brown
- Interdisciplinary Program in Translational Neuroscience, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, United States.,Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, United States.,Department of Anatomical Sciences and Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, United States
| | - Rachel M Zalla
- Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, United States.,Department of Bioengineering, J.B. Speed School of Engineering, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, United States
| | - Courtney T Shepard
- Interdisciplinary Program in Translational Neuroscience, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, United States.,Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, United States.,Department of Anatomical Sciences and Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, United States
| | - Russell M Howard
- Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, United States.,Department of Neurological Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, United States
| | - Jonathan A Kopechek
- Department of Bioengineering, J.B. Speed School of Engineering, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, United States
| | - David S K Magnuson
- Interdisciplinary Program in Translational Neuroscience, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, United States.,Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, United States.,Department of Anatomical Sciences and Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, United States.,Department of Bioengineering, J.B. Speed School of Engineering, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, United States.,Department of Neurological Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, United States
| | - Scott R Whittemore
- Interdisciplinary Program in Translational Neuroscience, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, United States.,Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, United States.,Department of Anatomical Sciences and Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, United States.,Department of Neurological Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, United States
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19
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Hu S, Yang T, Wang Y. Widespread labeling and genomic editing of the fetal central nervous system by in utero CRISPR AAV9-PHP.eB administration. Development 2021; 148:dev.195586. [PMID: 33334860 PMCID: PMC7847274 DOI: 10.1242/dev.195586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Efficient genetic manipulation in the developing central nervous system is crucial for investigating mechanisms of neurodevelopmental disorders and the development of promising therapeutics. Common approaches including transgenic mice and in utero electroporation, although powerful in many aspects, have their own limitations. In this study, we delivered vectors based on the AAV9.PHP.eB pseudo-type to the fetal mouse brain, and achieved widespread and extensive transduction of neural cells. When AAV9.PHP.eB-coding gRNA targeting PogZ or Depdc5 was delivered to Cas9 transgenic mice, widespread gene knockout was also achieved at the whole brain level. Our studies provide a useful platform for studying brain development and devising genetic intervention for severe developmental diseases. Summary:In utero CRISPR AAV9-PHP.eB provides a powerful platform to efficiently manipulate gene expression in the developing CNS to investigate mechanisms of neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuntong Hu
- Department of Neurology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410013, China.,Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Tao Yang
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Yu Wang
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
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20
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O'Carroll SJ, Cook WH, Young D. AAV Targeting of Glial Cell Types in the Central and Peripheral Nervous System and Relevance to Human Gene Therapy. Front Mol Neurosci 2021; 13:618020. [PMID: 33505247 PMCID: PMC7829478 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2020.618020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Different glial cell types are found throughout the central (CNS) and peripheral nervous system (PNS), where they have important functions. These cell types are also involved in nervous system pathology, playing roles in neurodegenerative disease and following trauma in the brain and spinal cord (astrocytes, microglia, oligodendrocytes), nerve degeneration and development of pain in peripheral nerves (Schwann cells, satellite cells), retinal diseases (Müller glia) and gut dysbiosis (enteric glia). These cell type have all been proposed as potential targets for treating these conditions. One approach to target these cell types is the use of gene therapy to modify gene expression. Adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors have been shown to be safe and effective in targeting cells in the nervous system and have been used in a number of clinical trials. To date, a number of studies have tested the use of different AAV serotypes and cell-specific promoters to increase glial cell tropism and expression. However, true glial-cell specific targeting for a particular glial cell type remains elusive. This review provides an overview of research into developing glial specific gene therapy and discusses some of the issues that still need to be addressed to make glial cell gene therapy a clinical reality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon J O'Carroll
- Spinal Cord Injury Research Group, Department of Anatomy and Medical Imaging, School of Medical Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - William H Cook
- Molecular Neurotherapeutics Group, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Deborah Young
- Molecular Neurotherapeutics Group, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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21
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Gene delivery to neurons in the auditory brainstem of barn owls using standard recombinant adeno-associated virus vectors. CURRENT RESEARCH IN NEUROBIOLOGY 2020; 1:100001. [PMID: 36249276 PMCID: PMC9559881 DOI: 10.1016/j.crneur.2020.100001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2020] [Revised: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) vectors are a commonly used tool for gene delivery. There is a large choice of different serotypes whose transduction efficiency varies for different animal species. In this study, three rAAV vectors were tested for transduction efficiency in the auditory brainstem of adult barn owls (Tyto alba) which are not standard laboratory animals. Injections with rAAV serotypes 2/1 and 2/5 resulted in reliable expression in various nuclei of the auditory brainstem of barn owls. Both vectors showed evidence of being spread by axonal transport. However, only rAAV2/5 also showed expression in regions far distant from the injection site, suggesting long-range axonal transport in connections along the auditory pathway. In contrast, injections with rAAV2/9 resulted in no expression. Our results demonstrate for the first time that commercially available rAAV vectors can be used for reliable gene expression in the barn owl auditory brainstem and pave the way toward optogenetic manipulation of neural activity in this important animal species in neuroethology and auditory physiology. Standard rAAV vectors effectively mediate gene expression in the barn-owl brain. rAAV2/1 was best suited for confined expression around the targeted injection site. Due to more axonal transport, rAAV2/5 resulted in wider spread of expressed genes. rAAV-mediated expression is expected to remain stable for an extended period of time. rAAV expression and stability are excellent prerequisites for optogenetic experiments.
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22
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Luchicchi A, Pattij T, Viaña JNM, de Kloet S, Marchant N. Tracing goes viral: Viruses that introduce expression of fluorescent proteins in chemically-specific neurons. J Neurosci Methods 2020; 348:109004. [PMID: 33242528 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2020.109004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Over the last century, there has been great progress in understanding how the brain works. In particular, the last two decades have been crucial in gaining more awareness over the complex functioning of neurotransmitter systems. The use of viral vectors in neuroscience has been pivotal for such development. Exploiting the properties of viral particles, modifying them according to the research needs, and making them target chemically-specific neurons, techniques such as optogenetics and chemogenetics have been developed, which could lead to a giant step toward gene therapy for brain disorders. In this review, we aim to provide an overview of some of the most widely used viral techniques in neuroscience. We will discuss advantages and disadvantages of these methods. In particular, attention is dedicated to the pivotal role played by the introduction of adeno-associated virus and the retrograde tracer canine-associated-2 Cre virus in order to achieve optimal visualization, and interrogation, of chemically-specific neuronal populations and their projections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Luchicchi
- Department of Anatomy and Neurosciences, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center, de Boelelaan 1108, 1081HZ, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Tommy Pattij
- Department of Anatomy and Neurosciences, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center, de Boelelaan 1108, 1081HZ, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - John Noel M Viaña
- Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research (CNCR), VU University Amsterdam, de Boelelaan 1085, 1081HZ, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Australian National Centre for the Public Awareness of Science, ANU College of Science, The Australian National University, Linnaeus Way, Acton, ACT 2601, Australia
| | - Sybren de Kloet
- Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research (CNCR), VU University Amsterdam, de Boelelaan 1085, 1081HZ, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Nathan Marchant
- Department of Anatomy and Neurosciences, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center, de Boelelaan 1108, 1081HZ, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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23
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Andrews MR. Gene therapy in the CNS-one size does not fit all. Gene Ther 2020; 28:393-395. [PMID: 32978509 DOI: 10.1038/s41434-020-00196-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Revised: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Melissa R Andrews
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, SO171BJ, UK.
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24
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Chen W, Hu Y, Ju D. Gene therapy for neurodegenerative disorders: advances, insights and prospects. Acta Pharm Sin B 2020; 10:1347-1359. [PMID: 32963936 PMCID: PMC7488363 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2020.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2019] [Revised: 11/09/2019] [Accepted: 12/06/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Gene therapy is rapidly emerging as a powerful therapeutic strategy for a wide range of neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD) and Huntington's disease (HD). Some early clinical trials have failed to achieve satisfactory therapeutic effects. Efforts to enhance effectiveness are now concentrating on three major fields: identification of new vectors, novel therapeutic targets, and reliable of delivery routes for transgenes. These approaches are being assessed closely in preclinical and clinical trials, which may ultimately provide powerful treatments for patients. Here, we discuss advances and challenges of gene therapy for neurodegenerative disorders, highlighting promising technologies, targets, and future prospects.
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Key Words
- AADC, aromatic-l-amino-acid
- AAVs, adeno-associated viruses
- AD, Alzheimer's disease
- ARSA, arylsulfatase A
- ASOs, antisense oligonucleotides
- ASPA, aspartoacylase
- Adeno-associated viruses
- Adv, adenovirus
- BBB, blood–brain barrier
- BCSFB, blood–cerebrospinal fluid barrier
- BRB, blood–retina barrier
- Bip, glucose regulated protein 78
- CHOP, CCAAT/enhancer binding homologous protein
- CLN6, ceroidlipofuscinosis neuronal protein 6
- CNS, central nervous system
- CSF, cerebrospinal fluid
- Central nervous system
- Delivery routes
- ER, endoplasmic reticulum
- FDA, U.S. Food and Drug Administration
- GAA, lysosomal acid α-glucosidase
- GAD, glutamic acid decarboxylase
- GDNF, glial derived neurotrophic factor
- Gene therapy
- HD, Huntington's disease
- HSPGs, heparin sulfate proteoglycans
- HTT, mutant huntingtin
- IDS, iduronate 2-sulfatase
- LVs, retrovirus/lentivirus
- Lamp2a, lysosomal-associated membrane protein 2a
- NGF, nerve growth factor
- Neurodegenerative disorders
- PD, Parkinson's disease
- PGRN, Progranulin
- PINK1, putative kinase 1
- PTEN, phosphatase and tensin homolog
- RGCs, retinal ganglion cells
- RNAi, RNA interference
- RPE, retinal pigmented epithelial
- SGSH, lysosomal heparan-N-sulfamidase gene
- SMN, survival motor neuron
- SOD, superoxide dismutase
- SUMF, sulfatase-modifying factor
- TFEB, transcription factor EB
- TPP1, tripeptidyl peptidase 1
- TREM2, triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 2
- UPR, unfolded protein response
- ZFPs, zinc finger proteins
- mTOR, mammalian target of rapamycin
- siRNA, small interfering RNA
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Chen
- Department of Biological Medicines, Fudan University School of Pharmacy, Shanghai 201203, China
- Department of Ophthalmology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA
| | - Yang Hu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA
| | - Dianwen Ju
- Department of Biological Medicines, Fudan University School of Pharmacy, Shanghai 201203, China
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25
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Nieuwenhuis B, Haenzi B, Hilton S, Carnicer-Lombarte A, Hobo B, Verhaagen J, Fawcett JW. Optimization of adeno-associated viral vector-mediated transduction of the corticospinal tract: comparison of four promoters. Gene Ther 2020; 28:56-74. [PMID: 32576975 PMCID: PMC7902269 DOI: 10.1038/s41434-020-0169-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2020] [Revised: 06/01/2020] [Accepted: 06/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Adeno-associated viral vectors are widely used as vehicles for gene transfer to the nervous system. The promoter and viral vector serotype are two key factors that determine the expression dynamics of the transgene. A previous comparative study has demonstrated that AAV1 displays efficient transduction of layer V corticospinal neurons, but the optimal promoter for transgene expression in corticospinal neurons has not been determined yet. In this paper, we report a side-by-side comparison between four commonly used promoters: the short CMV early enhancer/chicken β actin (sCAG), human cytomegalovirus (hCMV), mouse phosphoglycerate kinase (mPGK) and human synapsin (hSYN) promoter. Reporter constructs with each of these promoters were packaged in AAV1, and were injected in the sensorimotor cortex of rats and mice in order to transduce the corticospinal tract. Transgene expression levels and the cellular transduction profile were examined after 6 weeks. The AAV1 vectors harbouring the hCMV and sCAG promoters resulted in transgene expression in neurons, astrocytes and oligodendrocytes. The mPGK and hSYN promoters directed the strongest transgene expression. The mPGK promoter did drive expression in cortical neurons and oligodendrocytes, while transduction with AAV harbouring the hSYN promoter resulted in neuron-specific expression, including perineuronal net expressing interneurons and layer V corticospinal neurons. This promoter comparison study contributes to improve transgene delivery into the brain and spinal cord. The optimized transduction of the corticospinal tract will be beneficial for spinal cord injury research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bart Nieuwenhuis
- John van Geest Centre for Brain Repair, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Forvie Site, Robinson Way, Cambridge, CB2 0PY, UK. .,Laboratory for Regeneration of Sensorimotor Systems, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW), Meibergdreef 47, 1105 BA, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Barbara Haenzi
- John van Geest Centre for Brain Repair, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Forvie Site, Robinson Way, Cambridge, CB2 0PY, UK
| | - Sam Hilton
- John van Geest Centre for Brain Repair, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Forvie Site, Robinson Way, Cambridge, CB2 0PY, UK
| | - Alejandro Carnicer-Lombarte
- John van Geest Centre for Brain Repair, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Forvie Site, Robinson Way, Cambridge, CB2 0PY, UK
| | - Barbara Hobo
- Laboratory for Regeneration of Sensorimotor Systems, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW), Meibergdreef 47, 1105 BA, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Joost Verhaagen
- Laboratory for Regeneration of Sensorimotor Systems, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW), Meibergdreef 47, 1105 BA, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Centre for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1085, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - James W Fawcett
- John van Geest Centre for Brain Repair, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Forvie Site, Robinson Way, Cambridge, CB2 0PY, UK.,Centre of Reconstructive Neuroscience, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Vídeňská 1083, 142 20, Prague 4, Czech Republic
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Hirbec H, Déglon N, Foo LC, Goshen I, Grutzendler J, Hangen E, Kreisel T, Linck N, Muffat J, Regio S, Rion S, Escartin C. Emerging technologies to study glial cells. Glia 2020; 68:1692-1728. [PMID: 31958188 DOI: 10.1002/glia.23780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2019] [Revised: 12/20/2019] [Accepted: 12/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Development, physiological functions, and pathologies of the brain depend on tight interactions between neurons and different types of glial cells, such as astrocytes, microglia, oligodendrocytes, and oligodendrocyte precursor cells. Assessing the relative contribution of different glial cell types is required for the full understanding of brain function and dysfunction. Over the recent years, several technological breakthroughs were achieved, allowing "glio-scientists" to address new challenging biological questions. These technical developments make it possible to study the roles of specific cell types with medium or high-content workflows and perform fine analysis of their mutual interactions in a preserved environment. This review illustrates the potency of several cutting-edge experimental approaches (advanced cell cultures, induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived human glial cells, viral vectors, in situ glia imaging, opto- and chemogenetic approaches, and high-content molecular analysis) to unravel the role of glial cells in specific brain functions or diseases. It also illustrates the translation of some techniques to the clinics, to monitor glial cells in patients, through specific brain imaging methods. The advantages, pitfalls, and future developments are discussed for each technique, and selected examples are provided to illustrate how specific "gliobiological" questions can now be tackled.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hélène Hirbec
- Institute for Functional Genomics (IGF), University of Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, Montpellier, France
| | - Nicole Déglon
- Laboratory of Neurotherapies and Neuromodulation, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Lausanne University Hospital, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.,Laboratory of Neurotherapies and Neuromodulation, Neuroscience Research Center, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Lynette C Foo
- Neuroimmunology and Neurodegeneration Section, The Neuroscience and Rare Diseases Discovery and Translational Area, F. Hoffman-La Roche, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Inbal Goshen
- Edmond and Lily Safra Center for Brain Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Jaime Grutzendler
- Department of Neurology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA.,Department of Neuroscience, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Emilie Hangen
- Commissariat à l'Energie Atomique et aux Energies Alternatives, Département de la Recherche Fondamentale, Institut de Biologie François Jacob, MIRCen, Fontenay-aux-Roses, France.,Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Neurodegenerative Diseases Laboratory, Université Paris-Sud, Université Paris-Saclay, UMR 9199, Fontenay-aux-Roses, France
| | - Tirzah Kreisel
- Edmond and Lily Safra Center for Brain Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Nathalie Linck
- Institute for Functional Genomics (IGF), University of Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, Montpellier, France
| | - Julien Muffat
- Program in Neurosciences and Mental Health, The Hospital for Sick Children, and Department of Molecular Genetics, The University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Sara Regio
- Laboratory of Neurotherapies and Neuromodulation, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Lausanne University Hospital, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.,Laboratory of Neurotherapies and Neuromodulation, Neuroscience Research Center, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Sybille Rion
- Neuroimmunology and Neurodegeneration Section, The Neuroscience and Rare Diseases Discovery and Translational Area, F. Hoffman-La Roche, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Carole Escartin
- Commissariat à l'Energie Atomique et aux Energies Alternatives, Département de la Recherche Fondamentale, Institut de Biologie François Jacob, MIRCen, Fontenay-aux-Roses, France.,Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Neurodegenerative Diseases Laboratory, Université Paris-Sud, Université Paris-Saclay, UMR 9199, Fontenay-aux-Roses, France
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27
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Maes ME, Colombo G, Schulz R, Siegert S. Targeting microglia with lentivirus and AAV: Recent advances and remaining challenges. Neurosci Lett 2019; 707:134310. [PMID: 31158432 PMCID: PMC6734419 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2019.134310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2018] [Accepted: 05/30/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Microglia have emerged as a critical component of neurodegenerative diseases. Genetic manipulation of microglia can elucidate their functional impact in disease. In neuroscience, recombinant viruses such as lentiviruses and adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) have been successfully used to target various cell types in the brain, although effective transduction of microglia is rare. In this review, we provide a short background of lentiviruses and AAVs, and strategies for designing recombinant viral vectors. Then, we will summarize recent literature on successful microglial transductions in vitro and in vivo, and discuss the current challenges. Finally, we provide guidelines for reporting the efficiency and specificity of viral targeting in microglia, which will enable the microglial research community to assess and improve methodologies for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret E Maes
- Institute of Science and Technology (IST) Austria, Am Campus 1, 3400 Klosterneuburg, Austria
| | - Gloria Colombo
- Institute of Science and Technology (IST) Austria, Am Campus 1, 3400 Klosterneuburg, Austria
| | - Rouven Schulz
- Institute of Science and Technology (IST) Austria, Am Campus 1, 3400 Klosterneuburg, Austria
| | - Sandra Siegert
- Institute of Science and Technology (IST) Austria, Am Campus 1, 3400 Klosterneuburg, Austria.
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28
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Deverman BE, Ravina BM, Bankiewicz KS, Paul SM, Sah DWY. Gene therapy for neurological disorders: progress and prospects. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2018; 17:641-659. [DOI: 10.1038/nrd.2018.110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 175] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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29
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Sullivan JA, Stanek LM, Lukason MJ, Bu J, Osmond SR, Barry EA, O'Riordan CR, Shihabuddin LS, Cheng SH, Scaria A. Rationally designed AAV2 and AAVrh8R capsids provide improved transduction in the retina and brain. Gene Ther 2018; 25:205-219. [PMID: 29785047 DOI: 10.1038/s41434-018-0017-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2017] [Revised: 03/25/2018] [Accepted: 03/27/2018] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
The successful application of adeno-associated virus (AAV) gene delivery vectors as a therapeutic paradigm will require efficient gene delivery to the appropriate cells in affected organs. In this study, we utilized a rational design approach to introduce modifications to the AAV2 and AAVrh8R capsids and the resulting variants were evaluated for transduction activity in the retina and brain. The modifications disrupted either capsid/receptor binding or altered capsid surface charge. Specifically, we mutated AAV2 amino acids R585A and R588A, which are required for binding to its receptor, heparan sulfate proteoglycans, to generate a variant referred to as AAV2-HBKO. In contrast to parental AAV2, the AAV2-HBKO vector displayed low-transduction activity following intravitreal delivery to the mouse eye; however, following its subretinal delivery, AAV2-HBKO resulted in significantly greater photoreceptor transduction. Intrastriatal delivery of AAV2-HBKO to mice facilitated widespread striatal and cortical expression, in contrast to the restricted transduction pattern of the parental AAV2 vector. Furthermore, we found that altering the surface charge on the AAVrh8R capsid by modifying the number of arginine residues on the capsid surface had a profound impact on subretinal transduction. The data further validate the potential of capsid engineering to improve AAV gene therapy vectors for clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lisa M Stanek
- Sanofi, 49 New York Avenue, Framingham, MA, 01701-9322, USA
| | | | - Jie Bu
- Sanofi, 49 New York Avenue, Framingham, MA, 01701-9322, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Seng H Cheng
- Sanofi, 49 New York Avenue, Framingham, MA, 01701-9322, USA
| | - Abraham Scaria
- Sanofi, 49 New York Avenue, Framingham, MA, 01701-9322, USA
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30
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Human Neural Stem Cells with GDNF Site-Specific Integration at AAVS1 by Using AAV Vectors Retained Their Stemness. Neurochem Res 2018; 43:930-937. [PMID: 29435804 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-018-2498-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2017] [Revised: 01/05/2018] [Accepted: 02/07/2018] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
The neural stem cells (NSCs) have the ability to self-renew, and to migrate to pathologically altered regions of the central nervous system. Glial cell derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) could protect dopamine neurons and rescue motor neurons in vivo, which has been proposed as a promising candidate for the treatments of degenerative neurological diseases. In order to combine the advantages of neurotrophic factors and stem cells in clinical therapy, we established the modified hNSCs that has site-specific integration of GDNF gene by using recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) vectors. The hNSCs were co-infected by rAAV2-EGFP-GDNF and rAAV2-SVAV2 which provide integrase to specifically integrate GDNF gene into AAVS1 site. The GDNF-hNSCs maintained their original stem cell characteristics and the ability to differentiate into neurons in vitro. In the animal model, the GDNF-hNSCs were specifically transplanted into CA1 area of hippocampi and could migrate to the dentate gyrus region and differentiate into neuronal cells while maintaining GDNF expression. hNSCs with GDNF gene site-specific integration at AAVS1 by using AAV vectors retained their stemness and effectively expressed GDNF, which indicates the potential of employing transplanted hNPCs for treatment of brain injuries and degenerative neurological diseases.
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31
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Gallent EA, Steward O. Neuronal PTEN deletion in adult cortical neurons triggers progressive growth of cell bodies, dendrites, and axons. Exp Neurol 2018; 303:12-28. [PMID: 29337147 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2018.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2017] [Accepted: 01/08/2018] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Deletion of the phosphatase and tensin (PTEN) gene in neonatal mice leads to enlargement of the cell bodies of cortical motoneurons (CMNs) in adulthood (Gutilla et al., 2016). Here, we assessed whether PTEN deletion in adult mice would trigger growth of mature neurons. PTEN was deleted by injecting AAV-Cre into the sensorimotor cortex of adult transgenic mice with a lox-P flanked exon 5 of the PTEN gene and Cre-dependent reporter gene tdTomato. PTEN-deleted CMN's identified by tdT expression and retrograde labeling with fluorogold (FG) were significantly enlarged four months following PTEN deletion, and continued to increase in size through the latest time intervals examined (12-15 months post-deletion). Sholl analyses of tdT-positive pyramidal neurons revealed increases in dendritic branches at 6 months following adult PTEN deletion, and greater increases at 12 months. 12 months after adult PTEN deletion, axons in the medullary pyramids were significantly larger and G-ratios were higher. Mice with PTEN deletion exhibited no overt neurological symptoms and no seizures. Assessment of motor function on the rotarod and cylinder test revealed slight impairment of coordination with unilateral deletion; however, mice with bilateral PTEN deletion in the motor cortex performed better than controls on the rotarod at 8 and 10 months post-deletion. Our findings demonstrate that robust neuronal growth can be induced in fully mature cortical neurons long after the developmental period has ended and that this continuous growth occurs without obvious functional impairments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin A Gallent
- Reeve-Irvine Research Center, University of California, Irvine, United States; Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, United States; School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, United States
| | - Oswald Steward
- Reeve-Irvine Research Center, University of California, Irvine, United States; Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, United States; Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, United States; Department of Neurosurgery, University of California, Irvine, United States; School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, United States.
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32
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Directly Converted Human Fibroblasts Mature to Neurons and Show Long-Term Survival in Adult Rodent Hippocampus. Stem Cells Int 2018; 2017:5718608. [PMID: 29317869 PMCID: PMC5727793 DOI: 10.1155/2017/5718608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2017] [Revised: 10/16/2017] [Accepted: 10/17/2017] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Direct conversion of human somatic cells to induced neurons (iNs), using lineage-specific transcription factors has opened new opportunities for cell therapy in a number of neurological diseases, including epilepsy. In most severe cases of epilepsy, seizures often originate in the hippocampus, where populations of inhibitory interneurons degenerate. Thus, iNs could be of potential use to replace these lost interneurons. It is not known, however, if iNs survive and maintain functional neuronal properties for prolonged time periods in in vivo. We transplanted human fibroblast-derived iNs into the adult rat hippocampus and observed a progressive morphological differentiation, with more developed dendritic arborisation at six months as compared to one month. This was accompanied by mature electrophysiological properties and fast high amplitude action potentials at six months after transplantation. This proof-of-principle study suggests that human iNs can be developed as a candidate source for cell replacement therapy in temporal lobe epilepsy.
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33
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Tenenbaum L, Peschanski M, Melas C, Rodesh F, Lehtonen E, Stathopoulos A, Velu T, Brotchi J, Levivier M. Efficient Early and Sustained Transduction of Human Fetal Mesencephalon Using Adeno-Associated Virus Type 2 Vectors. Cell Transplant 2017; 13:565-71. [PMID: 15565868 DOI: 10.3727/000000004783983684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The success of transplantation of human fetal mesencephalic tissue into the putamen of patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) is still limited by the poor survival of the graft. In animal models of fetal transplantation for PD, antiapoptotic agents, such as growth factors or caspase inhibitors, or agents counteracting oxidative stress enhance the survival and reinnervation potential of the graft. Genetic modification of the transplant could allow a local and continuous delivery of these factors at physiologically relevant doses. The major challenge remains the development of strategies to achieve both early and sustained gene delivery in the absence of vector-mediated toxicity. We recently reported that E14 rat fetal mesencephalon could be efficiently tranduced by adeno-associated virus type 2 (AAV2) vectors and that gene expression was maintained until at least 3 months after transplantation in the adult rat striatum. Here we report that an AAV2 vector can mediate the expression of the EGFP reporter gene under the control of a CMV promoter in organotypic cultures of freshly explanted solid fragments of human fetal mesencephalic tissue as early as 3 days to at least 6 weeks postinfection. These results suggest that AAV2 vectors could be used to genetically modify the human fetal tissue prior to transplantation to Parkinson's patients to promote graft survival and integration.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Tenenbaum
- Laboratory of Experimental Neurosurgery, Hôpital Erasme, ULB, Belgium.
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34
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Wu SH, Liao ZX, D Rizak J, Zheng N, Zhang LH, Tang H, He XB, Wu Y, He XP, Yang MF, Li ZH, Qin DD, Hu XT. Comparative study of the transfection efficiency of commonly used viral vectors in rhesus monkey ( Macaca mulatta) brains. Zool Res 2017; 38:88-95. [PMID: 28409504 PMCID: PMC5396031 DOI: 10.24272/j.issn.2095-8137.2017.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2017] [Accepted: 03/03/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Viral vector transfection systems are among the simplest of biological agents with the ability to transfer genes into the central nervous system. In brain research, a series of powerful and novel gene editing technologies are based on these systems. Although many viral vectors are used in rodents, their full application has been limited in non-human primates. To identify viral vectors that can stably and effectively express exogenous genes within non-human primates, eleven commonly used recombinant adeno-associated viral and lentiviral vectors, each carrying a gene to express green or red fluorescence, were injected into the parietal cortex of four rhesus monkeys. The expression of fluorescent cells was used to quantify transfection efficiency. Histological results revealed that recombinant adeno-associated viral vectors, especially the serotype 2/9 coupled with the cytomegalovirus, human synapsin I, or Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II promoters, and lentiviral vector coupled with the human ubiquitin C promoter, induced higher expression of fluorescent cells, representing high transfection efficiency. This is the first comparison of transfection efficiencies of different viral vectors carrying different promoters and serotypes in non-human primates (NHPs). These results can be used as an aid to select optimal vectors to transfer exogenous genes into the central nervous system of non-human primates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shi-Hao Wu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of the Chinese Academy of Sciences & Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming Yunnan 650223, China; Nerve System Coding Discipline Group, Kunming College of Life Science, University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming Yunnan 650000, China
| | - Zhi-Xing Liao
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of the Chinese Academy of Sciences & Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming Yunnan 650223, China; Nerve System Coding Discipline Group, Kunming College of Life Science, University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming Yunnan 650000, China
| | - Joshua D Rizak
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of the Chinese Academy of Sciences & Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming Yunnan 650223, China
| | - Na Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of the Chinese Academy of Sciences & Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming Yunnan 650223, China; Nerve System Coding Discipline Group, Kunming College of Life Science, University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming Yunnan 650000, China
| | - Lin-Heng Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of the Chinese Academy of Sciences & Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming Yunnan 650223, China; Nerve System Coding Discipline Group, Kunming College of Life Science, University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming Yunnan 650000, China
| | - Hen Tang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of the Chinese Academy of Sciences & Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming Yunnan 650223, China
| | - Xiao-Bin He
- Center for Excellence in Brain Science, Wuhan Institute of Physics and Mathematics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan Hubei 430071, Chin
| | - Yang Wu
- Center for Excellence in Brain Science, Wuhan Institute of Physics and Mathematics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan Hubei 430071, China
| | - Xia-Ping He
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of the Chinese Academy of Sciences & Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming Yunnan 650223, China; Nerve System Coding Discipline Group, Kunming College of Life Science, University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming Yunnan 650000, China
| | - Mei-Feng Yang
- Department of Anatomy and Histology & Embryology, Faculty of Basic Medical Science, Kunming Medical University, Kunming Yunnan 650500, China
| | - Zheng-Hui Li
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of the Chinese Academy of Sciences & Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming Yunnan 650223, China; Nerve System Coding Discipline Group, Kunming College of Life Science, University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming Yunnan 650000, China
| | - Dong-Dong Qin
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of the Chinese Academy of Sciences & Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming Yunnan 650223, China.
| | - Xin-Tian Hu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of the Chinese Academy of Sciences & Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming Yunnan 650223, China; Kunming Primate Research Center, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming Yunnan 650223, China; CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China.
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Pignataro D, Sucunza D, Vanrell L, Lopez-Franco E, Dopeso-Reyes IG, Vales A, Hommel M, Rico AJ, Lanciego JL, Gonzalez-Aseguinolaza G. Adeno-Associated Viral Vectors Serotype 8 for Cell-Specific Delivery of Therapeutic Genes in the Central Nervous System. Front Neuroanat 2017; 11:2. [PMID: 28239341 PMCID: PMC5301009 DOI: 10.3389/fnana.2017.00002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2016] [Accepted: 01/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) have become highly promising tools for research and clinical applications in the central nervous system (CNS). However, specific delivery of genes to the cell type of interest is essential for the success of gene therapy and therefore a correct selection of the promoter plays a very important role. Here, AAV8 vectors carrying enhanced green fluorescent protein (eGFP) as reporter gene under the transcriptional control of different CNS-specific promoters were used and compared with a strong ubiquitous promoter. Since one of the main limitations of AAV-mediated gene delivery lies in its restricted cloning capacity, we focused our work on small-sized promoters. We tested the transduction efficacy and specificity of each vector after stereotactic injection into the mouse striatum. Three glia-specific AAV vectors were generated using two truncated forms of the human promoter for glial fibrillar acidic protein (GFAP) as well as a truncated form of the murine GFAP promoter. All three vectors resulted in predominantly glial expression; however we also observed eGFP expression in other cell-types such as oligodendrocytes, but never in neurons. In addition, robust and neuron-specific eGFP expression was observed using the minimal promoters for the neural protein BM88 and the neuronal nicotinic receptor β2 (CHRNB2). In summary, we developed a set of AAV vectors designed for specific expression in cells of the CNS using minimal promoters to drive gene expression when the size of the therapeutic gene matters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Pignataro
- Department of Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression, Center for Applied Medical ResearchPamplona, Spain; Department of Neurosciences, Center for Applied Medical ResearchPamplona, Spain
| | - Diego Sucunza
- Department of Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression, Center for Applied Medical ResearchPamplona, Spain; Department of Neurosciences, Center for Applied Medical ResearchPamplona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades NeurodegenerativasSpain
| | - Lucia Vanrell
- Department of Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression, Center for Applied Medical Research Pamplona, Spain
| | | | - Iria G Dopeso-Reyes
- Department of Neurosciences, Center for Applied Medical ResearchPamplona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades NeurodegenerativasSpain; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de NavarraPamplona, Spain
| | - Africa Vales
- Department of Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression, Center for Applied Medical Research Pamplona, Spain
| | - Mirja Hommel
- Department of Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression, Center for Applied Medical ResearchPamplona, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de NavarraPamplona, Spain
| | - Alberto J Rico
- Department of Neurosciences, Center for Applied Medical ResearchPamplona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades NeurodegenerativasSpain; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de NavarraPamplona, Spain
| | - Jose L Lanciego
- Department of Neurosciences, Center for Applied Medical ResearchPamplona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades NeurodegenerativasSpain; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de NavarraPamplona, Spain
| | - Gloria Gonzalez-Aseguinolaza
- Department of Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression, Center for Applied Medical ResearchPamplona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades NeurodegenerativasSpain; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de NavarraPamplona, Spain
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Destination Brain: the Past, Present, and Future of Therapeutic Gene Delivery. J Neuroimmune Pharmacol 2017; 12:51-83. [PMID: 28160121 DOI: 10.1007/s11481-016-9724-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2016] [Accepted: 12/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Neurological diseases and disorders (NDDs) present a significant societal burden and currently available drug- and biological-based therapeutic strategies have proven inadequate to alleviate it. Gene therapy is a suitable alternative to treat NDDs compared to conventional systems since it can be tailored to specifically alter select gene expression, reverse disease phenotype and restore normal function. The scope of gene therapy has broadened over the years with the advent of RNA interference and genome editing technologies. Consequently, encouraging results from central nervous system (CNS)-targeted gene delivery studies have led to their transition from preclinical to clinical trials. As we shift to an exciting gene therapy era, a retrospective of available literature on CNS-associated gene delivery is in order. This review is timely in this regard, since it analyzes key challenges and major findings from the last two decades and evaluates future prospects of brain gene delivery. We emphasize major areas consisting of physiological and pharmacological challenges in gene therapy, function-based selection of a ideal cellular target(s), available therapy modalities, and diversity of viral vectors and nanoparticles as vehicle systems. Further, we present plausible answers to key questions such as strategies to circumvent low blood-brain barrier permeability and most suitable CNS cell types for targeting. We compare and contrast pros and cons of the tested viral vectors in the context of delivery systems used in past and current clinical trials. Gene vector design challenges are also evaluated in the context of cell-specific promoters. Key challenges and findings reported for recent gene therapy clinical trials, assessing viral vectors and nanoparticles are discussed from the perspective of bench to bedside gene therapy translation. We conclude this review by tying together gene delivery challenges, available vehicle systems and comprehensive analyses of neuropathogenesis to outline future prospects of CNS-targeted gene therapies.
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Pignataro D, Sucunza D, Rico AJ, Dopeso-Reyes IG, Roda E, Rodríguez-Perez AI, Labandeira-Garcia JL, Broccoli V, Kato S, Kobayashi K, Lanciego JL. Gene therapy approaches in the non-human primate model of Parkinson's disease. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2017; 125:575-589. [PMID: 28130586 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-017-1681-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2016] [Accepted: 01/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The field of gene therapy has recently witnessed a number of major conceptual changes. Besides the traditional thinking that comprises the use of viral vectors for the delivery of a given therapeutic gene, a number of original approaches have been recently envisaged, focused on using vectors carrying genes to further modify basal ganglia circuits of interest. It is expected that these approaches will ultimately induce a therapeutic potential being sustained by gene-induced changes in brain circuits. Among others, at present, it is technically feasible to use viral vectors to (1) achieve a controlled release of neurotrophic factors, (2) conduct either a transient or permanent silencing of any given basal ganglia circuit of interest, (3) perform an in vivo cellular reprogramming by promoting the conversion of resident cells into dopaminergic-like neurons, and (4) improving levodopa efficacy over time by targeting aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase. Furthermore, extensive research efforts based on viral vectors are currently ongoing in an attempt to better replicate the dopaminergic neurodegeneration phenomena inherent to the progressive intraneuronal aggregation of alpha-synuclein. Finally, a number of incoming strategies will soon emerge over the horizon, these being sustained by the underlying goal of promoting alpha-synuclein clearance, such as, for instance, gene therapy initiatives based on increasing the activity of glucocerebrosidase. To provide adequate proof-of-concept on safety and efficacy and to push forward true translational initiatives based on these different types of gene therapies before entering into clinical trials, the use of non-human primate models undoubtedly plays an instrumental role.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Pignataro
- Department of Neurosciences, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra, Pio XII Ave 55, Edificio CIMA, 31008, Pamplona, Navarra, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdiSNA), Pamplona, Spain
| | - D Sucunza
- Department of Neurosciences, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra, Pio XII Ave 55, Edificio CIMA, 31008, Pamplona, Navarra, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdiSNA), Pamplona, Spain
| | - A J Rico
- Department of Neurosciences, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra, Pio XII Ave 55, Edificio CIMA, 31008, Pamplona, Navarra, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdiSNA), Pamplona, Spain
| | - I G Dopeso-Reyes
- Department of Neurosciences, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra, Pio XII Ave 55, Edificio CIMA, 31008, Pamplona, Navarra, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdiSNA), Pamplona, Spain
| | - E Roda
- Department of Neurosciences, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra, Pio XII Ave 55, Edificio CIMA, 31008, Pamplona, Navarra, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdiSNA), Pamplona, Spain
| | - A I Rodríguez-Perez
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain
- Laboratory of Neuroanatomy and Experimental Neurology, Department of Morphological Sciences, CIMUS, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - J L Labandeira-Garcia
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain
- Laboratory of Neuroanatomy and Experimental Neurology, Department of Morphological Sciences, CIMUS, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - V Broccoli
- Division of Neuroscience, Ospedale San Raffaele, 20132, Milan, Italy
- CNR Institute of Neuroscience, 20129, Milan, Italy
| | - S Kato
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Japan
| | - K Kobayashi
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Japan
| | - José L Lanciego
- Department of Neurosciences, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra, Pio XII Ave 55, Edificio CIMA, 31008, Pamplona, Navarra, Spain.
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain.
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdiSNA), Pamplona, Spain.
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Winner LK, Beard H, Hassiotis S, Lau AA, Luck AJ, Hopwood JJ, Hemsley KM. A Preclinical Study Evaluating AAVrh10-Based Gene Therapy for Sanfilippo Syndrome. Hum Gene Ther 2016; 27:363-75. [PMID: 26975339 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2015.170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Mucopolysaccharidosis type IIIA (MPS IIIA) is predominantly a disorder of the central nervous system, caused by a deficiency of sulfamidase (SGSH) with subsequent storage of heparan sulfate-derived oligosaccharides. No widely available therapy exists, and for this reason, a mouse model has been utilized to carry out a preclinical assessment of the benefit of intraparenchymal administration of a gene vector (AAVrh10-SGSH-IRES-SUMF1) into presymptomatic MPS IIIA mice. The outcome has been assessed with time, measuring primary and secondary storage material, neuroinflammation, and intracellular inclusions, all of which appear as the disease progresses. The vector resulted in predominantly ipsilateral distribution of SGSH, with substantially less detected in the contralateral hemisphere. Vector-derived SGSH enzyme improved heparan sulfate catabolism, reduced microglial activation, and, after a time delay, ameliorated GM3 ganglioside accumulation and halted ubiquitin-positive lesion formation in regions local to, or connected by projections to, the injection site. Improvements were not observed in regions of the brain distant from, or lacking connections with, the injection site. Intraparenchymal gene vector administration therefore has therapeutic potential provided that multiple brain regions are targeted with vector, in order to achieve widespread enzyme distribution and correction of disease pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leanne K Winner
- Lysosomal Diseases Research Unit, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI) , Adelaide, Australia
| | - Helen Beard
- Lysosomal Diseases Research Unit, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI) , Adelaide, Australia
| | - Sofia Hassiotis
- Lysosomal Diseases Research Unit, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI) , Adelaide, Australia
| | - Adeline A Lau
- Lysosomal Diseases Research Unit, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI) , Adelaide, Australia
| | - Amanda J Luck
- Lysosomal Diseases Research Unit, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI) , Adelaide, Australia
| | - John J Hopwood
- Lysosomal Diseases Research Unit, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI) , Adelaide, Australia
| | - Kim M Hemsley
- Lysosomal Diseases Research Unit, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI) , Adelaide, Australia
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Santiago-Ortiz JL, Schaffer DV. Adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors in cancer gene therapy. J Control Release 2016; 240:287-301. [PMID: 26796040 PMCID: PMC4940329 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2016.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2015] [Revised: 12/08/2015] [Accepted: 01/02/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Gene delivery vectors based on adeno-associated virus (AAV) have been utilized in a large number of gene therapy clinical trials, which have demonstrated their strong safety profile and increasingly their therapeutic efficacy for treating monogenic diseases. For cancer applications, AAV vectors have been harnessed for delivery of an extensive repertoire of transgenes to preclinical models and, more recently, clinical trials involving certain cancers. This review describes the applications of AAV vectors to cancer models and presents developments in vector engineering and payload design aimed at tailoring AAV vectors for transduction and treatment of cancer cells. We also discuss the current status of AAV clinical development in oncology and future directions for AAV in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge L Santiago-Ortiz
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - David V Schaffer
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA; Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA; Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA; The Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA.
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van Diemen FR, Kruse EM, Hooykaas MJG, Bruggeling CE, Schürch AC, van Ham PM, Imhof SM, Nijhuis M, Wiertz EJHJ, Lebbink RJ. CRISPR/Cas9-Mediated Genome Editing of Herpesviruses Limits Productive and Latent Infections. PLoS Pathog 2016; 12:e1005701. [PMID: 27362483 PMCID: PMC4928872 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1005701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 189] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2015] [Accepted: 05/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Herpesviruses infect the majority of the human population and can cause significant morbidity and mortality. Herpes simplex virus (HSV) type 1 causes cold sores and herpes simplex keratitis, whereas HSV-2 is responsible for genital herpes. Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is the most common viral cause of congenital defects and is responsible for serious disease in immuno-compromised individuals. Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is associated with infectious mononucleosis and a broad range of malignancies, including Burkitt’s lymphoma, nasopharyngeal carcinoma, Hodgkin’s disease, and post-transplant lymphomas. Herpesviruses persist in their host for life by establishing a latent infection that is interrupted by periodic reactivation events during which replication occurs. Current antiviral drug treatments target the clinical manifestations of this productive stage, but they are ineffective at eliminating these viruses from the infected host. Here, we set out to combat both productive and latent herpesvirus infections by exploiting the CRISPR/Cas9 system to target viral genetic elements important for virus fitness. We show effective abrogation of HCMV and HSV-1 replication by targeting gRNAs to essential viral genes. Simultaneous targeting of HSV-1 with multiple gRNAs completely abolished the production of infectious particles from human cells. Using the same approach, EBV can be almost completely cleared from latently infected EBV-transformed human tumor cells. Our studies indicate that the CRISPR/Cas9 system can be effectively targeted to herpesvirus genomes as a potent prophylactic and therapeutic anti-viral strategy that may be used to impair viral replication and clear latent virus infection. Herpesviruses are large DNA viruses that are carried by almost 100% of the adult human population. Herpesviruses include several important human pathogens, such as herpes simplex viruses (HSV) type 1 and 2 (causing cold sores and genital herpes, respectively), human cytomegalovirus (HCMV; the most common viral cause of congenital defects, and responsible for serious disease in immuno-compromised individuals), and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV; associated with infectious mononucleosis and a wide range of malignancies). Current antiviral drug treatments are not effective in clearing herpesviruses from infected individuals. Therefore, there is a need for alternative strategies to combat these pathogenic viruses and prevent or cure herpesvirus-associated diseases. Here, we have assessed whether a direct attack of herpesvirus genomes within virus-infected cells can inactivate these viruses. For this, we have made use of the recently developed CRISPR/Cas9 genome-engineering system to target and alter specific regions within the genome of these viruses. By targeting sites in the genomes of three different herpesviruses (HSV-1, HCMV, and EBV), we show complete inhibition of viral replication and in some cases even eradication of the viral genomes from infected cells. The findings presented in this study open new avenues for the development of therapeutic strategies to combat pathogenic human herpesviruses using novel genome-engineering technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ferdy R. van Diemen
- Medical Microbiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Elisabeth M. Kruse
- Medical Microbiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Anita C. Schürch
- Medical Microbiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Petra M. van Ham
- Medical Microbiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Saskia M. Imhof
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Monique Nijhuis
- Medical Microbiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Robert Jan Lebbink
- Medical Microbiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- * E-mail:
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Characterization of the Adeno-Associated Virus 1 and 6 Sialic Acid Binding Site. J Virol 2016; 90:5219-5230. [PMID: 26962225 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.00161-16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2016] [Accepted: 03/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED The adeno-associated viruses (AAVs), which are being developed as gene delivery vectors, display differential cell surface glycan binding and subsequent tissue tropisms. For AAV serotype 1 (AAV1), the first viral vector approved as a gene therapy treatment, and its closely related AAV6, sialic acid (SIA) serves as their primary cellular surface receptor. Toward characterizing the SIA binding site(s), the structure of the AAV1-SIA complex was determined by X-ray crystallography to 3.0 Å. Density consistent with SIA was observed in a pocket located at the base of capsid protrusions surrounding icosahedral 3-fold axes. Site-directed mutagenesis substitution of the amino acids forming this pocket with structurally equivalent residues from AAV2, a heparan sulfate binding serotype, followed by cell binding and transduction assays, further mapped the critical residues conferring SIA binding to AAV1 and AAV6. For both viruses five of the six binding pocket residues mutated (N447S, V473D, N500E, T502S, and W503A) abolished SIA binding, whereas S472R increased binding. All six mutations abolished or decreased transduction by at least 50% in AAV1. Surprisingly, the T502S substitution did not affect transduction efficiency of wild-type AAV6. Furthermore, three of the AAV1 SIA binding site mutants-S472R, V473D, and N500E-escaped recognition by the anti-AAV1 capsid antibody ADK1a. These observations demonstrate that common key capsid surface residues dictate both virus binding and entry processes, as well as antigenic reactivity. This study identifies an important functional capsid surface "hot spot" dictating receptor attachment, transduction efficiency, and antigenicity which could prove useful for vector engineering. IMPORTANCE The adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector gene delivery system has shown promise in several clinical trials and an AAV1-based vector has been approved as the first gene therapy treatment. However, limitations still exist with respect to transduction efficiency and the detrimental effects of preexisting host antibodies. This study aimed to identify key capsid regions which can be engineered to overcome these limitations. A sialic glycan receptor recognition pocket was identified in AAV1 and its closely related AAV6, using X-ray crystallography. The site was confirmed by mutagenesis followed by cell binding and transduction assays. Significantly, residues controlling gene expression efficiency, as well as antibody escape variants, were also identified. This study thus provides, at the amino acid level, information for rational structural engineering of AAV vectors with improved therapeutic efficacy.
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Microglia-specific targeting by novel capsid-modified AAV6 vectors. MOLECULAR THERAPY-METHODS & CLINICAL DEVELOPMENT 2016; 3:16026. [PMID: 27308302 PMCID: PMC4909093 DOI: 10.1038/mtm.2016.26] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2015] [Revised: 02/29/2016] [Accepted: 02/29/2016] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Recombinant adeno-associated viruses (rAAV) have been widely used in gene therapy
applications for central nervous system diseases. Though rAAV can efficiently target
neurons and astrocytes in mouse brains, microglia, the immune cells of the brain, are
refractile to rAAV. To identify AAV capsids with microglia-specific transduction
properties, we initially screened the most commonly used serotypes, AAV1–9 and
rh10, on primary mouse microglia cultures. While these capsids were not permissive, we
then tested the microglial targeting properties of a newly characterized set of modified
rAAV6 capsid variants with high tropism for monocytes. Indeed, these newly characterized
rAAV6 capsid variants, specially a triply mutated Y731F/Y705F/T492V form, carrying a
self-complementary genome and microglia-specific promoters (F4/80 or CD68) could
efficiently and selectively transduce microglia in vitro. Delivery of these
constructs in mice brains resulted in microglia-specific expression of green fluorescent
protein, albeit at modest levels. We further show that CD68 promoter–driven
expression of the inflammatory cytokine, interleukin-6, using this capsid variant leads to
increased astrogliosis in the brains of wild-type mice. Our study describes the first
instance of AAV-targeted microglial gene expression leading to functional modulation of
the innate immune system in mice brains. This provides the rationale for utilizing these
unique capsid/promoter combinations for microglia-specific gene targeting for modeling or
functional studies.
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Miro1 Regulates Activity-Driven Positioning of Mitochondria within Astrocytic Processes Apposed to Synapses to Regulate Intracellular Calcium Signaling. J Neurosci 2016; 35:15996-6011. [PMID: 26631479 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2068-15.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
It is fast emerging that maintaining mitochondrial function is important for regulating astrocyte function, although the specific mechanisms that govern astrocyte mitochondrial trafficking and positioning remain poorly understood. The mitochondrial Rho-GTPase 1 protein (Miro1) regulates mitochondrial trafficking and detachment from the microtubule transport network to control activity-dependent mitochondrial positioning in neurons. However, whether Miro proteins are important for regulating signaling-dependent mitochondrial dynamics in astrocytic processes remains unclear. Using live-cell confocal microscopy of rat organotypic hippocampal slices, we find that enhancing neuronal activity induces transient mitochondrial remodeling in astrocytes, with a concomitant, transient reduction in mitochondrial trafficking, mediated by elevations in intracellular Ca(2+). Stimulating neuronal activity also induced mitochondrial confinement within astrocytic processes in close proximity to synapses. Furthermore, we show that the Ca(2+)-sensing EF-hand domains of Miro1 are important for regulating mitochondrial trafficking in astrocytes and required for activity-driven mitochondrial confinement near synapses. Additionally, activity-dependent mitochondrial positioning by Miro1 reciprocally regulates the levels of intracellular Ca(2+) in astrocytic processes. Thus, the regulation of intracellular Ca(2+) signaling, dependent on Miro1-mediated mitochondrial positioning, could have important consequences for astrocyte Ca(2+) wave propagation, gliotransmission, and ultimately neuronal function.
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Cre-dependent selection yields AAV variants for widespread gene transfer to the adult brain. Nat Biotechnol 2016; 34:204-9. [PMID: 26829320 PMCID: PMC5088052 DOI: 10.1038/nbt.3440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 629] [Impact Index Per Article: 78.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2015] [Accepted: 11/23/2015] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Recombinant adeno-associated viruses (rAAVs) are commonly used vehicles for in vivo gene transfer. However, the tropism repertoire of naturally occurring AAVs is limited, prompting a search for novel AAV capsids with desired characteristics. Here we describe a capsid selection method, called Cre recombination-based AAV targeted evolution (CREATE), that enables the development of AAV capsids that more efficiently transduce defined Cre-expressing cell populations in vivo. We use CREATE to generate AAV variants that efficiently and widely transduce the adult mouse central nervous system (CNS) after intravenous injection. One variant, AAV-PHP.B, transfers genes throughout the CNS with an efficiency that is at least 40-fold greater than that of the current standard, AAV9 (refs. 14,15,16,17), and transduces the majority of astrocytes and neurons across multiple CNS regions. In vitro, it transduces human neurons and astrocytes more efficiently than does AAV9, demonstrating the potential of CREATE to produce customized AAV vectors for biomedical applications.
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Su W, Kang J, Sopher B, Gillespie J, Aloi MS, Odom GL, Hopkins S, Case A, Wang DB, Chamberlain JS, Garden GA. Recombinant adeno-associated viral (rAAV) vectors mediate efficient gene transduction in cultured neonatal and adult microglia. J Neurochem 2016; 136 Suppl 1:49-62. [PMID: 25708596 PMCID: PMC4547919 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.13081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2014] [Revised: 02/13/2015] [Accepted: 02/18/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Microglia are a specialized population of myeloid cells that mediate CNS innate immune responses. Efforts to identify the cellular and molecular mechanisms that regulate microglia behaviors have been hampered by the lack of effective tools for manipulating gene expression. Cultured microglia are refractory to most chemical and electrical transfection methods, yielding little or no gene delivery and causing toxicity and/or inflammatory activation. Recombinant adeno-associated viral (rAAVs) vectors are non-enveloped, single-stranded DNA vectors commonly used to transduce many primary cell types and tissues. In this study, we evaluated the feasibility and efficiency of utilizing rAAV serotype 2 (rAAV2) to modulate gene expression in cultured microglia. rAAV2 yields high transduction and causes minimal toxicity or inflammatory response in both neonatal and adult microglia. To demonstrate that rAAV transduction can induce functional protein expression, we used rAAV2 expressing Cre recombinase to successfully excise a LoxP-flanked miR155 gene in cultured microglia. We further evaluated rAAV serotypes 5, 6, 8, and 9, and observed that all efficiently transduced cultured microglia to varying degrees of success and caused little or no alteration in inflammatory gene expression. These results provide strong encouragement for the application of rAAV-mediated gene expression in microglia for mechanistic and therapeutic purposes. Neonatal microglia are functionally distinct from adult microglia, although the majority of in vitro studies utilize rodent neonatal microglia cultures because of difficulties of culturing adult cells. In addition, cultured microglia are refractory to most methods for modifying gene expression. Here, we developed a novel protocol for culturing adult microglia and evaluated the feasibility and efficiency of utilizing Recombinant Adeno-Associated Virus (rAAV) to modulate gene expression in cultured microglia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Su
- Department of Neurology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - John Kang
- Department of Neurology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Bryce Sopher
- Department of Neurology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - James Gillespie
- Department of Neurology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Macarena S. Aloi
- Department of Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Guy L. Odom
- Department of Neurology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Stephanie Hopkins
- Department of Neurology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Amanda Case
- Department of Neurology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - David B. Wang
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | | | - Gwenn A. Garden
- Department of Neurology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Department of Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Center on Human Development and Disability
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Castle MJ, Turunen HT, Vandenberghe LH, Wolfe JH. Controlling AAV Tropism in the Nervous System with Natural and Engineered Capsids. Methods Mol Biol 2016; 1382:133-49. [PMID: 26611584 PMCID: PMC4993104 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-3271-9_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
More than one hundred naturally occurring variants of adeno-associated virus (AAV) have been identified, and this library has been further expanded by an array of techniques for modification of the viral capsid. AAV capsid variants possess unique antigenic profiles and demonstrate distinct cellular tropisms driven by differences in receptor binding. AAV capsids can be chemically modified to alter tropism, can be produced as hybrid vectors that combine the properties of multiple serotypes, and can carry peptide insertions that introduce novel receptor-binding activity. Furthermore, directed evolution of shuffled genome libraries can identify engineered variants with unique properties, and rational modification of the viral capsid can alter tropism, reduce blockage by neutralizing antibodies, or enhance transduction efficiency. This large number of AAV variants and engineered capsids provides a varied toolkit for gene delivery to the CNS and retina, with specialized vectors available for many applications, but selecting a capsid variant from the array of available vectors can be difficult. This chapter describes the unique properties of a range of AAV variants and engineered capsids, and provides a guide for selecting the appropriate vector for specific applications in the CNS and retina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Castle
- Research Institute of the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 502-G Abramson Pediatric Research Building, 3615 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California-San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Heikki T Turunen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - Luk H Vandenberghe
- Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - John H Wolfe
- Research Institute of the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 502-G Abramson Pediatric Research Building, 3615 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
- W.F. Goodman Center for Comparative Medical Genetics, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
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Avaliani N, Sørensen AT, Ledri M, Bengzon J, Koch P, Brüstle O, Deisseroth K, Andersson M, Kokaia M. Optogenetics reveal delayed afferent synaptogenesis on grafted human-induced pluripotent stem cell-derived neural progenitors. Stem Cells 2015; 32:3088-98. [PMID: 25183299 DOI: 10.1002/stem.1823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2014] [Accepted: 07/14/2014] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Reprogramming of somatic cells into pluripotency stem cell state has opened new opportunities in cell replacement therapy and disease modeling in a number of neurological disorders. It still remains unknown, however, to what degree the grafted human-induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) differentiate into a functional neuronal phenotype and if they integrate into the host circuitry. Here, we present a detailed characterization of the functional properties and synaptic integration of hiPSC-derived neurons grafted in an in vitro model of hyperexcitable epileptic tissue, namely organotypic hippocampal slice cultures (OHSCs), and in adult rats in vivo. The hiPSCs were first differentiated into long-term self-renewing neuroepithelial stem (lt-NES) cells, which are known to form primarily GABAergic neurons. When differentiated in OHSCs for 6 weeks, lt-NES cell-derived neurons displayed neuronal properties such as tetrodotoxin-sensitive sodium currents and action potentials (APs), as well as both spontaneous and evoked postsynaptic currents, indicating functional afferent synaptic inputs. The grafted cells had a distinct electrophysiological profile compared to host cells in the OHSCs with higher input resistance, lower resting membrane potential, and APs with lower amplitude and longer duration. To investigate the origin of synaptic afferents to the grafted lt-NES cell-derived neurons, the host neurons were transduced with Channelrhodopsin-2 (ChR2) and optogenetically activated by blue light. Simultaneous recordings of synaptic currents in grafted lt-NES cell-derived neurons using whole-cell patch-clamp technique at 6 weeks after grafting revealed limited synaptic connections from host neurons. Longer differentiation times, up to 24 weeks after grafting in vivo, revealed more mature intrinsic properties and extensive synaptic afferents from host neurons to the lt-NES cell-derived neurons, suggesting that these cells require extended time for differentiation/maturation and synaptogenesis. However, even at this later time point, the grafted cells maintained a higher input resistance. These data indicate that grafted lt-NES cell-derived neurons receive ample afferent input from the host brain. Since the lt-NES cells used in this study show a strong propensity for GABAergic differentiation, the host-to-graft synaptic afferents may facilitate inhibitory neurotransmitter release, and normalize hyperexcitable neuronal networks in brain diseases, for example, such as epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Avaliani
- Epilepsy Center, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Lund University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
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48
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Kotterman MA, Vazin T, Schaffer DV. Enhanced selective gene delivery to neural stem cells in vivo by an adeno-associated viral variant. Development 2015; 142:1885-92. [PMID: 25968319 DOI: 10.1242/dev.115253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Neural stem cells (NSCs) are defined by their ability to self-renew and to differentiate into mature neuronal and glial cell types. NSCs are the subject of intense investigation, owing to their crucial roles in neural development and adult brain function and because they present potential targets for gene and cell replacement therapies following injury or disease. Approaches to specifically genetically perturb or modulate NSC function would be valuable for either motivation. Unfortunately, most gene delivery vectors are incapable of efficient or specific gene delivery to NSCs in vivo. Vectors based on adeno-associated virus (AAV) present a number of advantages and have proven increasingly successful in clinical trials. However, natural AAV variants are inefficient in transducing NSCs. We previously engineered a novel AAV variant (AAV r3.45) capable of efficient transduction of adult NSCs in vitro. Here, to build upon the initial promise of this variant, we investigated its in vitro and in vivo infectivity. AAV r3.45 was more selective for NSCs than mature neurons in a human embryonic stem cell-derived culture containing a mixture of cell types, including NSCs and neurons. It was capable of more efficient and selective transduction of rat and mouse NSCs in vivo than natural AAV serotypes following intracranial vector administration. Delivery of constitutively active β-catenin yielded insights into mechanisms by which this key regulator modulates NSC function, indicating that this engineered AAV variant can be harnessed for preferential modulation of adult NSCs in the hippocampus. The capacity to rapidly genetically modify these cells might greatly accelerate in vivo investigations of adult neurogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa A Kotterman
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA The Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA 4D Molecular Therapeutics, San Francisco, CA 94107, USA
| | - Tandis Vazin
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA The Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - David V Schaffer
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA The Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA 4D Molecular Therapeutics, San Francisco, CA 94107, USA Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720-1462, USA
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49
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Scheyltjens I, Laramée ME, Van den Haute C, Gijsbers R, Debyser Z, Baekelandt V, Vreysen S, Arckens L. Evaluation of the expression pattern of rAAV2/1, 2/5, 2/7, 2/8, and 2/9 serotypes with different promoters in the mouse visual cortex. J Comp Neurol 2015; 523:2019-42. [PMID: 26012540 DOI: 10.1002/cne.23819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2014] [Revised: 12/18/2014] [Accepted: 05/21/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
This study compared the expression pattern, laminar distribution, and cell specificity of several rAAV serotypes (2/1, 2/5, 2/7, 2/8, and 2/9) injected in the primary visual cortex (V1) of adult C57Bl/6J mice. In order to obtain specific expression in certain neuron subtypes, different promoter sequences were evaluated for excitatory cell specificity: a universal cytomegalovirus (CMV) promoter, and two versions of the excitatory neuron-specific Ca(2+) /calmodulin-dependent kinase subunit α (CaMKIIα) promoter, CaMKIIα 0.4 and CaMKIIα 1.3. The spatial distribution as well as the cell type specificity was immunohistochemically verified. Depending on the rAAV serotype used, the transduced volume expressing reporter protein differed substantially (rAAV2/5 ≫ 2/7 ≈ 2/9 ≈ 2/8 ≫ 2/1). Excitatory neuron-specific targeting was promoter-dependent, with a surprising difference between the 1.3 kb and 0.4 kb CaMKIIα promoters. While CaMKIIα 1.3 and CMV carrying vectors were comparable, with 78% of the transduced neurons being excitatory for CMV and 82% for CaMKIIα 1.3, the shorter CaMKIIα 0.4 version resulted in 95% excitatory specificity. This study therefore puts forward the CaMKIIα 0.4 promoter as the best choice to target excitatory neurons with rAAVs. Together, these results can be used as an aid to select the most optimal vector system to deliver transgenes into specific rodent neocortical circuits, allowing further elucidation of their functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabelle Scheyltjens
- KU Leuven, Laboratory of Neuroplasticity and Neuroproteomics, Department of Biology, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Marie-Eve Laramée
- KU Leuven, Laboratory of Neuroplasticity and Neuroproteomics, Department of Biology, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Chris Van den Haute
- KU Leuven, Laboratory for Neurobiology and Gene Therapy, Department of Neurosciences, Leuven, Belgium.,KU Leuven, Leuven Viral Vector Core, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Rik Gijsbers
- KU Leuven, Leuven Viral Vector Core, Leuven, Belgium.,KU Leuven, Laboratory for Molecular Virology and Gene Therapy, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Zeger Debyser
- KU Leuven, Laboratory for Molecular Virology and Gene Therapy, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Veerle Baekelandt
- KU Leuven, Laboratory for Neurobiology and Gene Therapy, Department of Neurosciences, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Samme Vreysen
- KU Leuven, Laboratory of Neuroplasticity and Neuroproteomics, Department of Biology, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Lutgarde Arckens
- KU Leuven, Laboratory of Neuroplasticity and Neuroproteomics, Department of Biology, Leuven, Belgium
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50
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Hastie E, Samulski RJ. Adeno-associated virus at 50: a golden anniversary of discovery, research, and gene therapy success--a personal perspective. Hum Gene Ther 2015; 26:257-65. [PMID: 25807962 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2015.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 169] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Fifty years after the discovery of adeno-associated virus (AAV) and more than 30 years after the first gene transfer experiment was conducted, dozens of gene therapy clinical trials are in progress, one vector is approved for use in Europe, and breakthroughs in virus modification and disease modeling are paving the way for a revolution in the treatment of rare diseases, cancer, as well as HIV. This review will provide a historical perspective on the progression of AAV for gene therapy from discovery to the clinic, focusing on contributions from the Samulski lab regarding basic science and cloning of AAV, optimized large-scale production of vectors, preclinical large animal studies and safety data, vector modifications for improved efficacy, and successful clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Hastie
- 1Gene Therapy Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7352
| | - R Jude Samulski
- 1Gene Therapy Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7352.,2Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7352
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