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Di Grandi D, Dayeh DM, Kaur K, Chen Y, Henderson S, Moon Y, Bhowmick A, Ihnat PM, Fu Y, Muthusamy K, Palackal N, Pyles EA. A single-nucleotide resolution capillary gel electrophoresis workflow for poly(A) tail characterization in the development of mRNA therapeutics and vaccines. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2023; 236:115692. [PMID: 37696189 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2023.115692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
The 3' poly(A) tail is an important component of messenger RNA (mRNA). The length of the poly(A) tail has direct impact on the stability and translation efficiency of the mRNA molecule and is therefore considered to be a critical quality attribute (CQA) of mRNA-based therapeutics and vaccines. Various analytical methods have been developed to monitor this CQA. Methods like ion-pair reversed-phase liquid chromatography (IPRP-LC) can be used to quantify the percentage of mRNA with poly(A) tail but fail to provide further information on the actual length of poly(A). High-resolution methods such as liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (LC-MS) or next generation sequencing (NGS) can separate poly(A) tail length by one nucleotide (n/n + 1 resolution) but are complicated to implement for release testing of manufactured mRNA. In this study, a workflow utilizing capillary gel electrophoresis (CGE) for characterizing the poly(A) tail length of mRNA was developed. The CGE method demonstrated resolution comparable with the LC-MS method. With UV detection and the addition of poly(A) length markers, this method can provide poly(A) tail length information and can also provide quantitation of each poly(A) length, making it a suitable release method to monitor the CQA of poly(A) tail length.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deanna Di Grandi
- Protein Biochemistry, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA
| | - Daniel M Dayeh
- Protein Biochemistry, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA
| | - Keerat Kaur
- Regeneron Genetic Medicines, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA
| | - Yizhuo Chen
- Regeneron Genetic Medicines, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA
| | - Steven Henderson
- Protein Biochemistry, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA
| | - Youmi Moon
- Protein Biochemistry, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA
| | - Arijit Bhowmick
- Regeneron Genetic Medicines, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA
| | - Peter M Ihnat
- Protein Biochemistry, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA
| | - Yue Fu
- Protein Biochemistry, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA.
| | - Kathir Muthusamy
- Protein Biochemistry, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA.
| | - Nisha Palackal
- Protein Biochemistry, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA
| | - Erica A Pyles
- Protein Biochemistry, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA
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2
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Pourseif MM, Masoudi-Sobhanzadeh Y, Azari E, Parvizpour S, Barar J, Ansari R, Omidi Y. Self-amplifying mRNA vaccines: Mode of action, design, development and optimization. Drug Discov Today 2022; 27:103341. [PMID: 35988718 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2022.103341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2021] [Revised: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The mRNA-based vaccines are quality-by-design (QbD) immunotherapies that provide safe, tunable, scalable, streamlined and potent treatment possibilities against different types of diseases. The self-amplifying mRNA (saRNA) vaccines, as a highly advantageous class of mRNA vaccines, are inspired by the intracellular self-multiplication nature of some positive-sense RNA viruses. Such vaccine platforms provide a relatively increased expression level of vaccine antigen(s) together with self-adjuvanticity properties. Lined with the QbD saRNA vaccines, essential optimizations improve the stability, safety, and immunogenicity of the vaccine constructs. Here, we elaborate on the concepts and mode-of-action of mRNA and saRNA vaccines, articulate the potential limitations or technical bottlenecks, and explain possible solutions or optimization methods in the process of their design and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad M Pourseif
- Research Center for Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Biomedicine Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Yosef Masoudi-Sobhanzadeh
- Research Center for Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Biomedicine Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Erfan Azari
- Research Center for Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Biomedicine Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Faculty of Pharmacy, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Sepideh Parvizpour
- Research Center for Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Biomedicine Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Jaleh Barar
- Research Center for Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Biomedicine Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Faculty of Pharmacy, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Rais Ansari
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA
| | - Yadollah Omidi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA.
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3
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Zadory M, Lopez E, Babity S, Gravel SP, Brambilla D. Current knowledge on the tissue distribution of mRNA nanocarriers for therapeutic protein expression. Biomater Sci 2022; 10:6077-6115. [PMID: 36097955 DOI: 10.1039/d2bm00859a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Exogenously delivered mRNA-based drugs are emerging as a new class of therapeutics with the potential to treat several diseases. Over the last decade, advancements in the design of non-viral delivery tools have enabled mRNA to be evaluated for several therapeutic purposes including protein replacement therapies, gene editing, and vaccines. However, in vivo delivery of mRNA to targeted organs and cells remains a critical challenge. Evaluation of the biodistribution of mRNA vehicles is of utmost importance for the development of effective pharmaceutical candidates. In this review, we discuss the recent advances in the design of nanoparticles loaded with mRNA and extrapolate the key factors influencing their biodistribution following administration. Finally, we highlight the latest developments in the preclinical and clinical translation of mRNA therapeutics for protein supplementation therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Zadory
- Faculté de Pharmacie, Université de Montréal, 2940 Chemin de Polytechnique, Montréal, Québec, Canada, H3T 1J4.
| | - Elliot Lopez
- Faculté de Pharmacie, Université de Montréal, 2940 Chemin de Polytechnique, Montréal, Québec, Canada, H3T 1J4.
| | - Samuel Babity
- Faculté de Pharmacie, Université de Montréal, 2940 Chemin de Polytechnique, Montréal, Québec, Canada, H3T 1J4.
| | - Simon-Pierre Gravel
- Faculté de Pharmacie, Université de Montréal, 2940 Chemin de Polytechnique, Montréal, Québec, Canada, H3T 1J4.
| | - Davide Brambilla
- Faculté de Pharmacie, Université de Montréal, 2940 Chemin de Polytechnique, Montréal, Québec, Canada, H3T 1J4.
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4
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Chabanovska O, Galow AM, David R, Lemcke H. mRNA - A game changer in regenerative medicine, cell-based therapy and reprogramming strategies. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2021; 179:114002. [PMID: 34653534 PMCID: PMC9418126 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.114002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Revised: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
After thirty years of intensive research shaping and optimizing the technology, the approval of the first mRNA-based formulation by the EMA and FDA in order to stop the COVID-19 pandemic was a breakthrough in mRNA research. The astonishing success of these vaccines have brought the mRNA platform into the spotlight of the scientific community. The remarkable persistence of the groundwork is mainly attributed to the exceptional benefits of mRNA application, including the biological origin, immediate but transitory mechanism of action, non-integrative properties, safe and relatively simple manufacturing as well as the flexibility to produce any desired protein. Based on these advantages, a practical implementation of in vitro transcribed mRNA has been considered in most areas of medicine. In this review, we discuss the key preconditions for the rise of the mRNA in the medical field, including the unique structural and functional features of the mRNA molecule and its vehicles, which are crucial aspects for a production of potent mRNA-based therapeutics. Further, we focus on the utility of mRNA tools particularly in the scope of regenerative medicine, i.e. cell reprogramming approaches or manipulation strategies for targeted tissue restoration. Finally, we highlight the strong clinical potential but also the remaining hurdles to overcome for the mRNA-based regenerative therapy, which is only a few steps away from becoming a reality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oleksandra Chabanovska
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Reference and Translation Center for Cardiac Stem Cell Therapy (RTC), Rostock University Medical Center, Rostock, Germany,Faculty of Interdisciplinary Research, Department Life, Light & Matter, University Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Anne-Marie Galow
- Institute of Genome Biology, Leibniz Institute for Farm Animal Biology, Dummerstorf, Germany
| | - Robert David
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Reference and Translation Center for Cardiac Stem Cell Therapy (RTC), Rostock University Medical Center, Rostock, Germany,Faculty of Interdisciplinary Research, Department Life, Light & Matter, University Rostock, Rostock, Germany,Corresponding author at: Department of Cardiac Surgery, Reference and Translation Center for Cardiac Stem Cell Therapy (RTC), Rostock University Medical Center, Rostock, Germany
| | - Heiko Lemcke
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Reference and Translation Center for Cardiac Stem Cell Therapy (RTC), Rostock University Medical Center, Rostock, Germany,Faculty of Interdisciplinary Research, Department Life, Light & Matter, University Rostock, Rostock, Germany
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5
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Kim SC, Sekhon SS, Shin WR, Ahn G, Cho BK, Ahn JY, Kim YH. Modifications of mRNA vaccine structural elements for improving mRNA stability and translation efficiency. Mol Cell Toxicol 2021; 18:1-8. [PMID: 34567201 PMCID: PMC8450916 DOI: 10.1007/s13273-021-00171-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Background mRNA vaccines hold great potential as therapeutic techniques against viral infections due to their efficacy, safety,
and large-scale production. mRNA vaccines offer flexibility in development as any protein can be produced from
mRNA without altering the production or application process. Objective This review highlights the iterative optimization of mRNA vaccine structural elements that impact the type,
specificity, and intensity of immune responses leading to higher translational potency and intracellular stability. Results Modifying the mRNA structural elements particularly the 5′ cap, 5′-and 3′-untranslated regions (UTRs), the coding region, and polyadenylation tail help reduce the excessive mRNA immunogenicity and consistently improve its
intracellular stability and translational efficiency. Conclusion Further studies regarding mRNA-structural elements and their optimization are needed to create new opportunities
for engineering mRNA vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sun Chang Kim
- Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, 291 Daehak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 34141 South Korea
| | - Simranjeet Singh Sekhon
- School of Biological Sciences, Chungbuk National University, Chungdae-ro, Seowon-gu, Cheongju, 28644 South Korea
| | - Woo-Ri Shin
- School of Biological Sciences, Chungbuk National University, Chungdae-ro, Seowon-gu, Cheongju, 28644 South Korea.,Department of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk 28644 South Korea
| | - Gna Ahn
- Department of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk 28644 South Korea
| | - Byung-Kwan Cho
- Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, 291 Daehak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 34141 South Korea
| | - Ji-Young Ahn
- School of Biological Sciences, Chungbuk National University, Chungdae-ro, Seowon-gu, Cheongju, 28644 South Korea.,Department of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk 28644 South Korea
| | - Yang-Hoon Kim
- School of Biological Sciences, Chungbuk National University, Chungdae-ro, Seowon-gu, Cheongju, 28644 South Korea.,Department of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk 28644 South Korea
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6
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Kim J, Eygeris Y, Gupta M, Sahay G. Self-assembled mRNA vaccines. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2021; 170:83-112. [PMID: 33400957 PMCID: PMC7837307 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2020.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 223] [Impact Index Per Article: 74.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2020] [Revised: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
mRNA vaccines have evolved from being a mere curiosity to emerging as COVID-19 vaccine front-runners. Recent advancements in the field of RNA technology, vaccinology, and nanotechnology have generated interest in delivering safe and effective mRNA therapeutics. In this review, we discuss design and self-assembly of mRNA vaccines. Self-assembly, a spontaneous organization of individual molecules, allows for design of nanoparticles with customizable properties. We highlight the materials commonly utilized to deliver mRNA, their physicochemical characteristics, and other relevant considerations, such as mRNA optimization, routes of administration, cellular fate, and immune activation, that are important for successful mRNA vaccination. We also examine the COVID-19 mRNA vaccines currently in clinical trials. mRNA vaccines are ready for the clinic, showing tremendous promise in the COVID-19 vaccine race, and have pushed the boundaries of gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeonghwan Kim
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, Robertson Life Science Building, 2730 South Moody Avenue, Portland, Oregon 97201, USA
| | - Yulia Eygeris
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, Robertson Life Science Building, 2730 South Moody Avenue, Portland, Oregon 97201, USA
| | - Mohit Gupta
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, Robertson Life Science Building, 2730 South Moody Avenue, Portland, Oregon 97201, USA
| | - Gaurav Sahay
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, Robertson Life Science Building, 2730 South Moody Avenue, Portland, Oregon 97201, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Oregon Health & Science University, Robertson Life Science Building, 2730 South Moody Avenue, Portland, Oregon 97201, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239, USA.
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7
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Ely A, Singh P, Smith TS, Arbuthnot P. In vitro transcribed mRNA for expression of designer nucleases: Advantages as a novel therapeutic for the management of chronic HBV infection. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2021; 168:134-146. [PMID: 32485207 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2020.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2019] [Revised: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Chronic infection with the hepatitis B virus (HBV) remains a significant worldwide medical problem. While diseases caused by HIV infection, tuberculosis and malaria are on the decline, new cases of chronic hepatitis B are on the rise. Because often fatal complications of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma are associated with chronic hepatitis B, the need for a cure is as urgent as ever. Currently licensed therapeutics fail to eradicate the virus and this is attributable to persistence of the viral replication intermediate comprising covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA). Elimination or inactivation of the viral cccDNA is thus a goal of research aimed at hepatitis B cure. The ability to engineer nucleases that are capable of specific cleavage of a DNA sequence now provides the means to disable cccDNA permanently. The scientific literature is replete with many examples of using designer zinc finger nucleases (ZFNs), transcription activator-like effector nucleases (TALENs) and RNA-guided endonucleases (RGENs) to inactivate HBV. However, important concerns about safety, dose control and efficient delivery need to be addressed before the technology is employed in a clinical setting. Use of in vitro transcribed mRNA to express therapeutic gene editors goes some way to overcoming these concerns. The labile nature of RNA limits off-target effects and enables dose control. Compatibility with hepatotropic non-viral vectors is convenient for the large scale preparation that will be required for advancing gene editing as a mode of curing chronic hepatitis B.
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