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Li M, Liu Z, Wang D, Ye J, Shi Z, Pan C, Zhang Q, Ju R, Zheng Y, Liu Y. Intraocular mRNA delivery with endogenous MmPEG10-based virus-like particles. Exp Eye Res 2024; 243:109899. [PMID: 38636802 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2024.109899] [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: 02/11/2024] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
Virus-like particles (VLP) are a promising tool for intracellular gene delivery, yet their potential in ocular gene therapy remains underexplored. In this study, we bridged this knowledge gap by demonstrating the successful generation and application of vesicular stomatitis virus glycoprotein (VSVG)-pseudotyped mouse PEG10 (MmPEG10)-VLP for intraocular mRNA delivery. Our findings revealed that PEG10-VLP can efficiently deliver GFP mRNA to adult retinal pigment epithelial cell line-19 (ARPE-19) cells, leading to transient expression. Moreover, we showed that MmPEG10-VLP can transfer SMAD7 to inhibit epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in RPE cells effectively. In vivo experiments further substantiated the potential of these vectors, as subretinal delivery into adult mice resulted in efficient transduction of retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells and GFP reporter gene expression without significant immune response. However, intravitreal injection did not yield efficient ocular expression. We also evaluated the transduction characteristics of MmPEG10-VLP following intracameral delivery, revealing transient GFP protein expression in corneal endothelial cells without significant immunotoxicities. In summary, our study established that VSVG pseudotyped MmPEG10-based VLP can transduce mitotically inactive RPE cells and corneal endothelial cells in vivo without triggering an inflammatory response, underscoring their potential utility in ocular gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengke Li
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China; Research Unit of Ocular Development and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100085 China
| | - Zhong Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Dongliang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Jinguo Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Zhuoxing Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Caineng Pan
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Qikai Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Rong Ju
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Yingfeng Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China; Research Unit of Ocular Development and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100085 China.
| | - Yizhi Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China; Research Unit of Ocular Development and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100085 China
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2
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Huayamares SG, Loughrey D, Kim H, Dahlman JE, Sorscher EJ. Nucleic acid-based drugs for patients with solid tumours. Nat Rev Clin Oncol 2024; 21:407-427. [PMID: 38589512 DOI: 10.1038/s41571-024-00883-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
The treatment of patients with advanced-stage solid tumours typically involves a multimodality approach (including surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapy and/or immunotherapy), which is often ultimately ineffective. Nucleic acid-based drugs, either as monotherapies or in combination with standard-of-care therapies, are rapidly emerging as novel treatments capable of generating responses in otherwise refractory tumours. These therapies include those using viral vectors (also referred to as gene therapies), several of which have now been approved by regulatory agencies, and nanoparticles containing mRNAs and a range of other nucleotides. In this Review, we describe the development and clinical activity of viral and non-viral nucleic acid-based treatments, including their mechanisms of action, tolerability and available efficacy data from patients with solid tumours. We also describe the effects of the tumour microenvironment on drug delivery for both systemically administered and locally administered agents. Finally, we discuss important trends resulting from ongoing clinical trials and preclinical testing, and manufacturing and/or stability considerations that are expected to underpin the next generation of nucleic acid agents for patients with solid tumours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian G Huayamares
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - David Loughrey
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Hyejin Kim
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - James E Dahlman
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA.
- Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA.
| | - Eric J Sorscher
- Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.
- Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.
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3
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Prasher P, Sharma M, Agarwal V, Singh SK, Gupta G, Dureja H, Dua K. Cationic cycloamylose based nucleic acid nanocarriers. Chem Biol Interact 2024; 395:111000. [PMID: 38614318 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2024.111000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2023] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024]
Abstract
Nucleic acid delivery by viral and non-viral methods has been a cornerstone for the contemporary gene therapy aimed at correcting the defective genes, replacing of the missing genes, or downregulating the expression of anomalous genes is highly desirable for the management of various diseases. Ostensibly, it becomes paramount for the delivery vectors to intersect the biological barriers for accessing their destined site within the cellular environment. However, the lipophilic nature of biological membranes and their potential to limit the entry of large sized, charged, hydrophilic molecules thus presenting a sizeable challenge for the cellular integration of negatively charged nucleic acids. Furthermore, the susceptibility of nucleic acids towards the degrading enzymes (nucleases) in the lysosomes present in cytoplasm is another matter of concern for their cellular and nuclear delivery. Hence, there is a pressing need for the identification and development of cationic delivery systems which encapsulate the cargo nucleic acids where the charge facilitates their cellular entry by evading the membrane barriers, and the encapsulation shields them from the enzymatic attack in cytoplasm. Cycloamylose bearing a closed loop conformation presents a robust candidature in this regard owing to its remarkable encapsulating tendency towards nucleic acids including siRNA, CpG DNA, and siRNA. The presence of numerous hydroxyl groups on the cycloamylose periphery provides sites for its chemical modification for the introduction of cationic groups, including spermine, (3-Chloro-2 hydroxypropyl) trimethylammonium chloride (Q188), and diethyl aminoethane (DEAE). The resulting cationic cycloamylose possesses a remarkable transfection efficiency and provides stability to cargo oligonucleotides against endonucleases, in addition to modulating the undesirable side effects such as unwanted immune stimulation. Cycloamylose is known to interact with the cell membranes where they release certain membrane components such as phospholipids and cholesterol thereby resulting in membrane destabilization and permeabilization. Furthermore, cycloamylose derivatives also serve as formulation excipients for improving the efficiency of other gene delivery systems. This review delves into the various vector and non-vector-based gene delivery systems, their advantages, and limitations, eventually leading to the identification of cycloamylose as an ideal candidate for nucleic acid delivery. The synthesis of cationic cycloamylose is briefly discussed in each section followed by its application for specific delivery/transfection of a particular nucleic acid.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parteek Prasher
- Department of Chemistry, University of Petroleum & Energy Studies, Energy Acres, Dehradun, 248007, India.
| | - Mousmee Sharma
- Department of Chemistry, Uttaranchal University, Dehradun, 248007, India
| | - Vipul Agarwal
- Cluster for Advanced Macromolecular Design (CAMD), School of Chemical Engineering, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Sachin Kumar Singh
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, 144411, India; Faculty of Health, Australian Research Center in Complementary and Integrative Medicine, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, 2007, Australia; School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, 47500 Sunway City, Malaysia
| | - Gaurav Gupta
- School of Pharmacy, Graphic Era Hill University, Dehradun, 248007, India; Centre of Medical and Bio-allied Health Sciences Research, Ajman University, Ajman 346, United Arab Emirates
| | - Harish Dureja
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Maharishi Dayanand University, Rohtak, 124001, India
| | - Kamal Dua
- Faculty of Health, Australian Research Center in Complementary and Integrative Medicine, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, 2007, Australia; Discipline of Pharmacy, Graduate School of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, 2007, Australia.
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4
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Yuan R, Wang B, Wang Y, Liu P. Gene Therapy for Neurofibromatosis Type 2-Related Schwannomatosis: Recent Progress, Challenges, and Future Directions. Oncol Ther 2024:10.1007/s40487-024-00279-2. [PMID: 38760612 DOI: 10.1007/s40487-024-00279-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2)-related schwannomatosis is a rare autosomal dominant monogenic disorder caused by mutations in the NF2 gene. The hallmarks of NF2-related schwannomatosis are bilateral vestibular schwannomas (VS). The current treatment options for NF2-related schwannomatosis, such as observation with serial imaging, surgery, radiotherapy, and pharmacotherapies, have shown limited effectiveness and serious complications. Therefore, there is a critical demand for novel effective treatments. Gene therapy, which has made significant advancements in treating genetic diseases, holds promise for the treatment of this disease. This review covers the genetic pathogenesis of NF2-related schwannomatosis, the latest progress in gene therapy strategies, current challenges, and future directions of gene therapy for NF2-related schwannomatosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruofei Yuan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tian Tan Hospital, Capital Medical University, No. 119 South Fourth Ring West Road, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100070, China
| | - Bo Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tian Tan Hospital, Capital Medical University, No. 119 South Fourth Ring West Road, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100070, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Neural Reconstruction, Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Pinan Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tian Tan Hospital, Capital Medical University, No. 119 South Fourth Ring West Road, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100070, China.
- Department of Neural Reconstruction, Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
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5
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Sun H, Wang X, Pratt RE, Dzau VJ, Hodgkinson CP. C166 EVs potentiate miR cardiac reprogramming via miR-148a-3p. J Mol Cell Cardiol 2024; 190:48-61. [PMID: 38582260 DOI: 10.1016/j.yjmcc.2024.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
We have demonstrated that directly reprogramming cardiac fibroblasts into new cardiomyocytes via miR combo improves cardiac function in the infarcted heart. However, major challenges exist with delivery and efficacy. During a screening based approach to improve delivery, we discovered that C166-derived EVs were effective delivery agents for miR combo both in vitro and in vivo. In the latter, EV mediated delivery of miR combo induced significant conversion of cardiac fibroblasts into cardiomyocytes (∼20%), reduced fibrosis and improved cardiac function in a myocardial infarction injury model. When compared to lipid-based transfection, C166 EV mediated delivery of miR combo enhanced reprogramming efficacy. Improved reprogramming efficacy was found to result from a miRNA within the exosome: miR-148a-3p. The target of miR-148a-3p was identified as Mdfic. Over-expression and targeted knockdown studies demonstrated that Mdfic was a repressor of cardiomyocyte specific gene expression. In conclusion, we have demonstrated that C166-derived EVs are an effective method for delivering reprogramming factors to cardiac fibroblasts and we have identified a novel miRNA contained within C166-derived EVs which enhances reprogramming efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hualing Sun
- Mandel Center for Heart and Vascular Research, and the Duke Cardiovascular Research Center, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, United States of America; Department of Periodontology, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Hubei Province, China
| | - Xinghua Wang
- Mandel Center for Heart and Vascular Research, and the Duke Cardiovascular Research Center, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, United States of America
| | - Richard E Pratt
- Mandel Center for Heart and Vascular Research, and the Duke Cardiovascular Research Center, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, United States of America
| | - Victor J Dzau
- Mandel Center for Heart and Vascular Research, and the Duke Cardiovascular Research Center, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, United States of America.
| | - Conrad P Hodgkinson
- Mandel Center for Heart and Vascular Research, and the Duke Cardiovascular Research Center, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, United States of America.
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6
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Fischer J, Fedotova A, Bühler C, Darriba L, Schreiner S, Ruzsics Z. Expanding the Scope of Adenoviral Vectors by Utilizing Novel Tools for Recombination and Vector Rescue. Viruses 2024; 16:658. [PMID: 38793540 PMCID: PMC11125593 DOI: 10.3390/v16050658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Recombinant adenoviruses are widely used in clinical and laboratory applications. Despite the wide variety of available sero- and genotypes, only a fraction is utilized in vivo. As adenoviruses are a large group of viruses, displaying many different tropisms, immune epitopes, and replication characteristics, the merits of translating these natural benefits into vector applications are apparent. This translation, however, proves difficult, since while research has investigated the application of these viruses, there are no universally applicable rules in vector design for non-classical adenovirus types. In this paper, we describe a generalized workflow that allows vectorization, rescue, and cloning of all adenoviral species to enable the rapid development of new vector variants. We show this using human and simian adenoviruses, further modifying a selection of them to investigate their gene transfer potential and build potential vector candidates for future applications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Zsolt Ruzsics
- Institute of Virology, University Medical Center Freiburg, Medical Faculty, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany; (J.F.); (A.F.); (S.S.)
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7
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Sun JW, Thomas JS, Monkovic JM, Gibson H, Nagapurkar A, Frezzo JA, Katyal P, Punia K, Mahoudinobar F, Renfrew PD, Montclare JK. Supercharged coiled-coil protein with N-terminal decahistidine tag boosts siRNA complexation and delivery efficiency of a lipoproteoplex. J Pept Sci 2024:e3594. [PMID: 38499991 DOI: 10.1002/psc.3594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
Short interfering RNA (siRNA) therapeutics have soared in popularity due to their highly selective and potent targeting of faulty genes, providing a non-palliative approach to address diseases. Despite their potential, effective transfection of siRNA into cells requires the assistance of an accompanying vector. Vectors constructed from non-viral materials, while offering safer and non-cytotoxic profiles, often grapple with lackluster loading and delivery efficiencies, necessitating substantial milligram quantities of expensive siRNA to confer the desired downstream effects. We detail the recombinant synthesis of a diverse series of coiled-coil supercharged protein (CSP) biomaterials systematically designed to investigate the impact of two arginine point mutations (Q39R and N61R) and decahistidine tags on liposomal siRNA delivery. The most efficacious variant, N8, exhibits a twofold increase in its affinity to siRNA and achieves a twofold enhancement in transfection activity with minimal cytotoxicity in vitro. Subsequent analysis unveils the destabilizing effect of the Q39R and N61R supercharging mutations and the incorporation of C-terminal decahistidine tags on α-helical secondary structure. Cross-correlational regression analyses reveal that the amount of helical character in these mutants is key in N8's enhanced siRNA complexation and downstream delivery efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan W Sun
- Department of Chemistry, New York University, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | - Joseph S Thomas
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, New York, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | - Julia M Monkovic
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | - Halle Gibson
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | - Akash Nagapurkar
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | - Joseph A Frezzo
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | - Priya Katyal
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | - Kamia Punia
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | - Farbod Mahoudinobar
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, New York, USA
- Center for Computational Biology, Flatiron Institute, Simons Foundation, New York, New York, USA
| | - P Douglas Renfrew
- Center for Computational Biology, Flatiron Institute, Simons Foundation, New York, New York, USA
| | - Jin Kim Montclare
- Department of Chemistry, New York University, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, New York, USA
- Department of Radiology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Biomaterials, NYU College of Dentistry, New York, New York, USA
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8
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Daddacha W, Monroe D, Schlafstein A, Withers A, Thompson E, Danelia D, Luong N, Sesay F, Rath S, Usoro E, Essien M, Jung A, Jiang J, Hu J, Mahboubi B, Williams A, Steinbeck J, Yang X, Buchwald Z, Dynan W, Switchenko J, Kim B, Khan M, Jaye D, Yu D. SAMHD1 expression contributes to doxorubicin resistance and predicts survival outcomes in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma patients. NAR Cancer 2024; 6:zcae007. [PMID: 38406263 PMCID: PMC10894040 DOI: 10.1093/narcan/zcae007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is a commonly diagnosed, aggressive non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. While R-CHOP chemoimmunotherapy is potentially curative, about 40% of DLBCL patients will fail, highlighting the need to identify biomarkers to optimize management. SAMHD1 has a dNTPase-independent role in promoting resection to facilitate DNA double-strand break (DSB) repair by homologous recombination. We evaluated the relationship of SAMHD1 levels with sensitivity to DSB-sensitizing agents in DLBCL cells and the association of SAMHD1 expression with clinical outcomes in 79 DLBCL patients treated with definitive therapy and an independent cohort dataset of 234 DLBCL patients. Low SAMHD1 expression, Vpx-mediated, or siRNA-mediated degradation/depletion in DLBCL cells was associated with greater sensitivity to doxorubicin and PARP inhibitors. On Kaplan-Meier log-rank survival analysis, low SAMHD1 expression was associated with improved overall survival (OS), which on subset analysis remained significant only in patients with advanced stage (III-IV) and moderate to high risk (2-5 International Prognostic Index (IPI)). The association of low SAMHD1 expression with improved OS remained significant on multivariate analysis independent of other adverse factors, including IPI, and was validated in an independent cohort. Our findings suggest that SAMHD1 expression mediates doxorubicin resistance and may be an important prognostic biomarker in advanced, higher-risk DLBCL patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Waaqo Daddacha
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Dominique Monroe
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Ashley J Schlafstein
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Allison E Withers
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Elizabeth B Thompson
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Diana Danelia
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Nho C Luong
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Fatmata Sesay
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Sandip K Rath
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Edidiong R Usoro
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Mark E Essien
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Andrew T Jung
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Jinmeng G Jiang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Jiaxuan Hu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Bijan Mahboubi
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Arilyn Williams
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Julia E Steinbeck
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Xiaofeng Yang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Zachary S Buchwald
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - William S Dynan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Jeffrey M Switchenko
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Rollins School of Public Health and Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Baek Kim
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Mohammad K Khan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - David L Jaye
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - David S Yu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
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9
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Guo F, Zhang Y, Cui J. Manufacturing CAR-NK against tumors: Who is the ideal supplier? Chin J Cancer Res 2024; 36:1-16. [PMID: 38455373 PMCID: PMC10915637 DOI: 10.21147/j.issn.1000-9604.2024.01.01] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor-natural killer (CAR-NK) cells have emerged as another prominent player in the realm of tumor immunotherapy following CAR-T cells. The unique features of CAR-NK cells make it possible to compensate for deficiencies in CAR-T therapy, such as the complexity of the manufacturing process, clinical adverse events, and solid tumor challenges. To date, CAR-NK products from different allogeneic sources have exhibited remarkable anti-tumor effects on preclinical studies and have gradually been applied in clinical practice. However, each source has advantages and disadvantages. Selecting a suitable source may help maximize CAR-NK cell efficacy and increase the feasibility of clinical transformation. Therefore, this review discusses the development and challenges of CAR-NK cells from different sources to provide a reference for future exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feifei Guo
- The First Hospital of Jilin University, Cancer Center, Changchun 133021, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- The First Hospital of Jilin University, Cancer Center, Changchun 133021, China
| | - Jiuwei Cui
- The First Hospital of Jilin University, Cancer Center, Changchun 133021, China
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10
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Kitawi R, Ledger S, Kelleher AD, Ahlenstiel CL. Advances in HIV Gene Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2771. [PMID: 38474018 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Early gene therapy studies held great promise for the cure of heritable diseases, but the occurrence of various genotoxic events led to a pause in clinical trials and a more guarded approach to progress. Recent advances in genetic engineering technologies have reignited interest, leading to the approval of the first gene therapy product targeting genetic mutations in 2017. Gene therapy (GT) can be delivered either in vivo or ex vivo. An ex vivo approach to gene therapy is advantageous, as it allows for the characterization of the gene-modified cells and the selection of desired properties before patient administration. Autologous cells can also be used during this process which eliminates the possibility of immune rejection. This review highlights the various stages of ex vivo gene therapy, current research developments that have increased the efficiency and safety of this process, and a comprehensive summary of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) gene therapy studies, the majority of which have employed the ex vivo approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rose Kitawi
- Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Kensington, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Scott Ledger
- Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Kensington, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Anthony D Kelleher
- Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Kensington, NSW 2052, Australia
- St. Vincent's Hospital, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
- UNSW RNA Institute, University of New South Wales, Kensington, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Chantelle L Ahlenstiel
- Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Kensington, NSW 2052, Australia
- UNSW RNA Institute, University of New South Wales, Kensington, NSW 2052, Australia
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11
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Gomis-Fons J, Zee B, Hurwit D, Woo J, Moscariello J, Nilsson B. Mechanistic modeling of empty-full separation in recombinant adeno-associated virus production using anion-exchange membrane chromatography. Biotechnol Bioeng 2024; 121:719-734. [PMID: 37942560 DOI: 10.1002/bit.28595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
Recombinant adeno-associated viral vectors (rAAVs) have become an industry-standard technology in the field of gene therapy, but there are still challenges to be addressed in their biomanufacturing. One of the biggest challenges is the removal of capsid species other than that which contains the gene of interest. In this work, we develop a mechanistic model for the removal of empty capsids-those that contain no genetic material-and enrichment of full rAAV using anion-exchange membrane chromatography. The mechanistic model was calibrated using linear gradient experiments, resulting in good agreement with the experimental data. The model was then applied to optimize the purification process through maximization of yield studying the impact of mobile phase salt concentration and pH, isocratic wash and elution length, flow rate, percent full (purity) requirement, loading density (challenge), and the use of single-step or two-step elution modes. A solution from the optimization with purity of 90% and recovery yield of 84% was selected and successfully validated, as the model could predict the recovery yield with remarkable fidelity and was able to find process conditions that led to significant enrichment. This is, to the best of our knowledge, the first case study of the application of de novo mechanistic modeling for the enrichment of full capsids in rAAV manufacturing, and it serves as demonstration of the potential of mechanistic modeling in rAAV process development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joaquin Gomis-Fons
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Lund University, Lund, Scania, Sweden
| | - Bryan Zee
- Gene Delivery Process and Analytical Development, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Daniel Hurwit
- Gene Delivery Process and Analytical Development, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - James Woo
- Gene Delivery Process and Analytical Development, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - John Moscariello
- Gene Delivery Process and Analytical Development, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Bernt Nilsson
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Lund University, Lund, Scania, Sweden
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12
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Duong HQ, Nguyen TH, Hoang MC, Ngo VL, Le VT. RNA therapeutics for β-thalassemia. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2024; 204:97-107. [PMID: 38458745 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2023.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
β-thalassemia is an autosomal recessive disease, caused by one or more mutations in the β-globin gene that reduces or abolishes β-globin chain synthesis causing an imbalance in the ratio of α- and β-globin chain. Therefore, the ability to target mutations will provide a good result in the treatment of β-thalassemia. RNA therapeutics represents a promising class of drugs inclusive antisense oligonucleotides (ASO), small interfering RNA (siRNA), microRNA (miRNA) and APTAMER have investigated in clinical trials for treatment of human diseases as β-thalassemia; Especially, ASO therapeutics can completely treat β-thalassemia patients by the way of making ASO infiltrating through erythrocyte progenitor cells, migrating to the nucleus and hybridizing with abnormal splicing sites to suppress an abnormal splicing pattern of β-globin pre-mRNA. As a result, the exactly splicing process is restored to increase the expression of β-globin which increases the amount of mature hemoglobin of red blood cells of β-thalassemia patients. Furthermore, current study demonstrates that RNA-based therapeutics get lots of good results for β-thalassemia patients. Then, this chapter focuses on current advances of RNA-based therapeutics and addresses current challenges with their development and application for treatment of β-thalassemia patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Van-Lang Ngo
- Hanoi University of Public Health, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Van-Thu Le
- Hanoi University of Public Health, Hanoi, Vietnam
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13
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Thomas J, Sun J, Montclare JK. Constructing Nucleic Acid Delivering Lipoproteoplexes from Coiled-Coil Supercharged Protein and Cationic Liposomes. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2720:191-207. [PMID: 37775667 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3469-1_14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
The safe and efficient delivery of nucleic acids is crucial for both clinical applications of gene therapy and pre-clinical laboratory research. Such delivery strategies rely on vectors to condense nucleic acid payloads and escort them into the cell without being degraded in the extracellular environment; however, the construction and utilization of these vectors can be difficult and time-consuming. Here, we detail the steps involved in the rapid, laboratory-scale production and assessment of a versatile, nucleic acid delivery vehicle, known as the lipoproteoplex. In this chapter, we outline: (1) the recombinant synthesis and subsequent purification of the supercharged coiled-coil protein component known as N8; (2) the synthesis of cationic liposomes from dioleoyl-3-trimethylammonium propane (DOTAP) and sodium cholate; (3) and finally a protocol for the delivery of a model siRNA cargo into a cultured cell line.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Thomas
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, State University of New York Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, NY, USA
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, New York University Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | - Jonathan Sun
- Department of Chemistry, New York University, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Radiology, State University of New York Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | - Jin Kim Montclare
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, New York University Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, NY, USA.
- Department of Chemistry, New York University, New York, NY, USA.
- Department of Radiology, State University of New York Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, USA.
- Department of Biomaterials, New York University College of Dentistry, New York, NY, USA.
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14
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Triantafyllou N, Sarkis M, Krassakopoulou A, Shah N, Papathanasiou MM, Kontoravdi C. Uncertainty quantification for gene delivery methods: A roadmap for pDNA manufacturing from phase I clinical trials to commercialization. Biotechnol J 2024; 19:e2300103. [PMID: 37797343 DOI: 10.1002/biot.202300103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
The fast-growing interest in cell and gene therapy (C>) products has led to a growing demand for the production of plasmid DNA (pDNA) and viral vectors for clinical and commercial use. Manufacturers, regulators, and suppliers need to develop strategies for establishing robust and agile supply chains in the otherwise empirical field of C>. A model-based methodology that has great potential to support the wider adoption of C> is presented, by ensuring efficient timelines, scalability, and cost-effectiveness in the production of key raw materials. Specifically, key process and economic parameters are identified for (1) the production of pDNA for the forward-looking scenario of non-viral-based Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T-cell therapies from clinical (200 doses) to commercial (40,000 doses) scale and (2) the commercial (40,000 doses) production of pDNA and lentiviral vectors for the current state-of-the-art viral vector-based CAR T-cell therapies. By applying a systematic global sensitivity analysis, we quantify uncertainty in the manufacturing process and apportion it to key process and economic parameters, highlighting cost drivers and limitations that steer decision-making. The results underline the cost-efficiency and operational flexibility of non-viral-based therapies in the overall C> supply chain, as well as the importance of economies-of-scale in the production of pDNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niki Triantafyllou
- The Sargent Centre for Process Systems Engineering, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Miriam Sarkis
- The Sargent Centre for Process Systems Engineering, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | | | - Nilay Shah
- The Sargent Centre for Process Systems Engineering, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Maria M Papathanasiou
- The Sargent Centre for Process Systems Engineering, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Cleo Kontoravdi
- The Sargent Centre for Process Systems Engineering, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Imperial College London, London, UK
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15
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Grimsdell B, Saleem A, Volpe A, Fruhwirth GO. Genetic Engineering of Therapeutic Cells with the Sodium Iodide Symporter (NIS) to Enable Noninvasive In Vivo Therapy Tracking. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2729:303-330. [PMID: 38006504 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3499-8_18] [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: 11/27/2023]
Abstract
Noninvasive long-term imaging of therapeutic cells in preclinical models can be achieved through introducing a reporter gene into the cells of interest. Despite important recent developments such as gene editing, cell engineering based on lentiviruses remains a mainstream tool for gene transfer applicable to a variety of different cell types.In this chapter, we describe how to use lentivirus-based genetic engineering to render different candidate cell therapies in vivo traceable by radionuclide imaging. We illustrate this reporter gene technology using the sodium iodide symporter (NIS), which is compatible with both positron emission tomography (PET) and single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT). For preclinical experimentation, we fused NIS with a suitable fluorescent protein such as monomeric GFP or RFP to streamline cell line generation and downstream analyses of ex vivo tissue samples. We present protocols for reporter gene engineering of human cardiac progenitor cells, regulatory T cells, and effector T cells as well as for the characterization experiments required to validate NIS-fluorescent protein reporter function in these candidate therapeutic cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben Grimsdell
- Imaging Therapies and Cancer Group, Comprehensive Cancer Centre, School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Adeel Saleem
- Imaging Therapies and Cancer Group, Comprehensive Cancer Centre, School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Alessia Volpe
- Molecular Imaging Group, Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Gilbert O Fruhwirth
- Imaging Therapies and Cancer Group, Comprehensive Cancer Centre, School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Sciences, King's College London, London, UK.
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16
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Georgieva M, Xenodochidis C, Krasteva N. Old age as a risk factor for liver diseases: Modern therapeutic approaches. Exp Gerontol 2023; 184:112334. [PMID: 37977514 DOI: 10.1016/j.exger.2023.112334] [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: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 11/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Recent scientific interest has been directed towards age-related diseases, driven by the significant increase in global life expectancy and the growing population of individuals aged 65 and above. The ageing process encompasses various biological, physiological, environmental, psychological, behavioural, and social changes, leading to an augmented susceptibility to chronic illnesses. Cardiovascular, neurological, musculoskeletal, liver and oncological diseases are prevalent in the elderly. Moreover, ageing individuals demonstrate reduced regenerative capacity and decreased tolerance towards therapeutic interventions, including organ transplantation. Liver diseases, such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, alcoholic liver disease, hepatitis, fibrosis, and cirrhosis, have emerged as significant public health concerns. Paradoxically, these conditions remain underestimated despite their substantial global impact. Age-related factors are closely associated with the severity and unfavorable prognosis of various liver diseases, warranting further investigation to enhance clinical management and develop novel therapeutic strategies. This comprehensive review focuses specifically on age-related liver diseases, their treatment strategies, and contemporary practices. It provides a detailed account of the global burden, types, molecular mechanisms, and epigenetic alterations underlying these liver pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milena Georgieva
- Institute of Molecular Biology "Acad. Roumen Tsanev", Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria.
| | - Charilaos Xenodochidis
- Institute of Biophysics and Biomedical Engineering, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Natalia Krasteva
- Institute of Biophysics and Biomedical Engineering, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria.
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17
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Dogbey DM, Torres VES, Fajemisin E, Mpondo L, Ngwenya T, Akinrinmade OA, Perriman AW, Barth S. Technological advances in the use of viral and non-viral vectors for delivering genetic and non-genetic cargos for cancer therapy. Drug Deliv Transl Res 2023; 13:2719-2738. [PMID: 37301780 PMCID: PMC10257536 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-023-01362-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The burden of cancer is increasing globally. Several challenges facing its mainstream treatment approaches have formed the basis for the development of targeted delivery systems to carry and distribute anti-cancer payloads to their defined targets. This site-specific delivery of drug molecules and gene payloads to selectively target druggable biomarkers aimed at inducing cell death while sparing normal cells is the principal goal for cancer therapy. An important advantage of a delivery vector either viral or non-viral is the cumulative ability to penetrate the haphazardly arranged and immunosuppressive tumour microenvironment of solid tumours and or withstand antibody-mediated immune response. Biotechnological approaches incorporating rational protein engineering for the development of targeted delivery systems which may serve as vehicles for packaging and distribution of anti-cancer agents to selectively target and kill cancer cells are highly desired. Over the years, these chemically and genetically modified delivery systems have aimed at distribution and selective accumulation of drug molecules at receptor sites resulting in constant maintenance of high drug bioavailability for effective anti-tumour activity. In this review, we highlighted the state-of-the art viral and non-viral drug and gene delivery systems and those under developments focusing on cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dennis Makafui Dogbey
- South African Research Chair in Cancer Biotechnology, Division of Chemical and Systems Biology, Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Emmanuel Fajemisin
- South African Research Chair in Cancer Biotechnology, Division of Chemical and Systems Biology, Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Liyabona Mpondo
- South African Research Chair in Cancer Biotechnology, Division of Chemical and Systems Biology, Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Takunda Ngwenya
- South African Research Chair in Cancer Biotechnology, Division of Chemical and Systems Biology, Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Olusiji Alex Akinrinmade
- South African Research Chair in Cancer Biotechnology, Division of Chemical and Systems Biology, Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Adam W Perriman
- School of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Bristol, BS8 1TD, Bristol, UK
| | - Stefan Barth
- South African Research Chair in Cancer Biotechnology, Division of Chemical and Systems Biology, Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
- Medical Biotechnology and Immunotherapy Research Unit, Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
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18
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Haritoglou C, Boneva S, Schultheiss M, Sebag J, Binder S. [Vitreoretinal surgery in age-related macular degeneration]. DIE OPHTHALMOLOGIE 2023; 120:1004-1013. [PMID: 37728619 DOI: 10.1007/s00347-023-01933-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Abstract
The structure of the vitreous body, its interaction with the retinal surface and tractive alterations of the vitreoretinal interface may play a role in the pathogenesis and the development of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). From clinical trials it can be concluded that posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) or vitreous removal may protect against the development of neovascular AMD. Vitreomacular adhesions may promote neovascular AMD and may have an impact on the efficacy and frequency of intravitreal vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibition. Therefore, vitreomacular surgery may be considered as a treatment option in selected cases. Peeling of epimacular membranes and the internal limiting membrane (ILM) may contribute to stabilizing visual acuity and reducing the treatment burden of current intravitreal pharmacotherapy. At present, surgical interventions in AMD are mainly performed in cases of submacular hemorrhage involving the fovea. The treatment is not standardized and consists of liquefaction of the blood using recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rTPA) and its pneumatic displacement, potentially combined with VEGF inhibition. Other submacular surgical strategies, such as choroidal neovascularization (CNV) extraction, macular translocation or transplantation of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) are currently limited to selected cases as a salvage treatment; however, the development of these submacular surgical interventions has formed the basis for new approaches in the treatment of dry and neovascular AMD including submacular or intravitreal gene and stem cell therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Stefaniya Boneva
- Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum Freiburg, Freiburg, Deutschland
| | | | - J Sebag
- VMR Institute for Vitreous Macula Retina, Huntington Beach, CA, USA
- Doheny Eye Institute, Pasadena, CA, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Susanne Binder
- Lehrstuhl für Ophthalmologie, Sigmund Freud Universität, Wien, Österreich
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19
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Komel T, Bosnjak M, Sersa G, Cemazar M. Expression of GFP and DsRed fluorescent proteins after gene electrotransfer of tumour cells in vitro. Bioelectrochemistry 2023; 153:108490. [PMID: 37356264 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioelechem.2023.108490] [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: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023]
Abstract
Fluorescent reporter genes are widely used to study the transfection of various types of primary cells and cell lines. The aim of our research was to investigate the expression dynamics of GFP and DsRed reporter genes individually and combined after gene electrotransfer of plasmids with two different electroporation protocols in B16F10 and CT26 cells in vitro. The cytotoxicity after gene electrotransfer of both plasmids was first determined. Second, the intensity of fluorescence and the percentage of cells transfected with both plasmids individually and in combination were monitored in real time. The results show that the percentage of viability after gene electrotransfer of plasmids using the EP2 pulses was significantly higher compared to the EP1 pulses. In contrast, the percentage of transfected cells and fluorescence intensity were higher after gene electrotransfer with the EP1 pulse protocol. Moreover, the percentage of transfected cells was higher and started earlier in the B16F10 cell line than in the CT26 cell line. However, fluorescence intensity was higher in CT26 cells. Co-expression of fluorescent proteins was achieved only in a small number of cells. In conclusion, this study elucidated some of the dynamics of reporter gene expression in cancer cell lines after gene electrotransfer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tilen Komel
- Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Department of Experimental Oncology, Zaloska 2, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Medicine, Vrazov trg 2, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Masa Bosnjak
- Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Department of Experimental Oncology, Zaloska 2, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Gregor Sersa
- Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Department of Experimental Oncology, Zaloska 2, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Health Sciences, Zdravstvena pot 5, SI - 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Maja Cemazar
- Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Department of Experimental Oncology, Zaloska 2, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; University of Primorska, Faculty of Health Sciences, Polje 42, SI - 6310 Izola, Slovenia.
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20
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Bangari DS, Lanigan LG, Cramer SD, Grieves JL, Meisner R, Rogers AB, Galbreath EJ, Bolon B. Toxicologic Neuropathology of Novel Biotherapeutics. Toxicol Pathol 2023; 51:414-431. [PMID: 38380881 DOI: 10.1177/01926233241230542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
Biotherapeutic modalities such as cell therapies, gene therapies, nucleic acids, and proteins are increasingly investigated as disease-modifying treatments for severe and life-threatening neurodegenerative disorders. Such diverse bio-derived test articles are fraught with unique and often unpredictable biological consequences, while guidance regarding nonclinical experimental design, neuropathology evaluation, and interpretation is often limited. This paper summarizes key messages offered during a half-day continuing education course on toxicologic neuropathology of neuro-targeted biotherapeutics. Topics included fundamental neurobiology concepts, pharmacology, frequent toxicological findings, and their interpretation including adversity decisions. Covered biotherapeutic classes included cell therapies, gene editing and gene therapy vectors, nucleic acids, and proteins. If agents are administered directly into the central nervous system, initial screening using hematoxylin and eosin (H&E)-stained sections of currently recommended neural organs (brain [7 levels], spinal cord [3 levels], and sciatic nerve) may need to expand to include other components (e.g., more brain levels, ganglia, and/or additional nerves) and/or special neurohistological procedures to characterize possible neural effects (e.g., cell type-specific markers for reactive glial cells). Scientists who evaluate the safety of novel biologics will find this paper to be a practical reference for preclinical safety testing and risk assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - René Meisner
- Denali Therapeutics, South San Francisco, California, USA
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21
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Andretto V, Dusi S, Zilio S, Repellin M, Kryza D, Ugel S, Lollo G. Tackling TNF-α in autoinflammatory disorders and autoimmune diseases: From conventional to cutting edge in biologics and RNA- based nanomedicines. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2023; 201:115080. [PMID: 37660747 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2023.115080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
Autoinflammatory disorders and autoimmune diseases result from abnormal deviations of innate and adaptive immunity that heterogeneously affect organs and clinical phenotypes. Despite having etiologic and phenotypic differences, these two conditions share the onset of an aberrant inflammatory process. Targeting the main drivers controlling inflammation is useful to treat both autoimmune and autoinflammatory syndromes. TNF-α is a major player in the inflammatory immune response, and anti-TNF-α antibodies have been a revolutionary treatment in many autoimmune disorders. However, production difficulties and high development costs hinder their implementation, and accessibility to their use is still limited. Innovative strategies aimed at overcoming the limitations associated with anti-TNF-α antibodies are being explored, including RNA-based therapies. Here we summarize the central role of TNF-α in immune disorders and how anti-TNF-based immunotherapies changed the therapeutic landscape, albeit with important limitations related to side effects, tolerance, and resistance to therapies. We then outline how nanotechnology has provided the final momentum for the use of nucleic acids in the treatment of autoimmune and autoinflammatory diseases, with a focus on inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs). The example of IBDs allows the evaluation and discussion of the nucleic acids-based treatments that have been developed, to identify the role that innovative approaches possess in view of the treatment of autoinflammatory disorders and autoimmune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Andretto
- Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, LAGEPP UMR 5007, 43 Boulevard du 11 Novembre 1918, F-69622 Villeurbanne, France
| | - Silvia Dusi
- Istituto Oncologico Veneto IRCCS, Padova 35128, Italy
| | - Serena Zilio
- Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, LAGEPP UMR 5007, 43 Boulevard du 11 Novembre 1918, F-69622 Villeurbanne, France; SATT Ouest Valorisation, 14C Rue du Patis Tatelin 35708, Rennes, France
| | - Mathieu Repellin
- Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, LAGEPP UMR 5007, 43 Boulevard du 11 Novembre 1918, F-69622 Villeurbanne, France; PULSALYS SATT Lyon-Saint Etienne, 47 Boulevard du 11 Novembre 1918, 69625 Villeurbanne, France
| | - David Kryza
- Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, LAGEPP UMR 5007, 43 Boulevard du 11 Novembre 1918, F-69622 Villeurbanne, France; Hospices Civils de Lyon, 69437 Lyon, France
| | - Stefano Ugel
- Immunology Section, Department of Medicine, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Giovanna Lollo
- Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, LAGEPP UMR 5007, 43 Boulevard du 11 Novembre 1918, F-69622 Villeurbanne, France.
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22
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Wang X, Elbahrawi RT, Abdukadir AM, Ali ZM, Chan V, Corridon PR. A proposed model of xeno-keratoplasty using 3D printing and decellularization. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1193606. [PMID: 37799970 PMCID: PMC10548234 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1193606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Corneal opacity is a leading cause of vision impairment and suffering worldwide. Transplantation can effectively restore vision and reduce chronic discomfort. However, there is a considerable shortage of viable corneal graft tissues. Tissue engineering may address this issue by advancing xeno-keratoplasty as a viable alternative to conventional keratoplasty. In particular, livestock decellularization strategies offer the potential to generate bioartificial ocular prosthetics in sufficient supply to match existing and projected needs. To this end, we have examined the best practices and characterizations that have supported the current state-of-the-art driving preclinical and clinical applications. Identifying the challenges that delimit activities to supplement the donor corneal pool derived from acellular scaffolds allowed us to hypothesize a model for keratoprosthesis applications derived from livestock combining 3D printing and decellularization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyu Wang
- Biomedical Engineering and Healthcare Engineering Innovation Center, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Immunology and Physiology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rawdah Taha Elbahrawi
- Department of Immunology and Physiology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Azhar Mohamud Abdukadir
- Department of Immunology and Physiology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Zehara Mohammed Ali
- Department of Immunology and Physiology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Vincent Chan
- Biomedical Engineering and Healthcare Engineering Innovation Center, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Peter R. Corridon
- Biomedical Engineering and Healthcare Engineering Innovation Center, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Immunology and Physiology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Center for Biotechnology, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Hleathcare, Engineering and Innovation Center, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
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23
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Jong ED, Hacibekiroglu S, Guo L, Sawula E, Li B, Li C, Ho MT, Shoichet MS, Wallace VA, Nagy A. Soluble CX3CL1-expressing retinal pigment epithelium cells protect rod photoreceptors in a mouse model of retinitis pigmentosa. Stem Cell Res Ther 2023; 14:212. [PMID: 37605279 PMCID: PMC10441732 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-023-03434-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is an inherited retinal disease that results in photoreceptor degeneration, leading to severe vision loss or blindness. Due to its genetic heterogeneity, developing a new gene therapy to correct every genetic mutation contributing to its progression is infeasible. Photoreceptor transplantation can be harnessed to restore vision; however, this approach is limited by poor cell survival and synaptic integration into the neural retina. Thus, we developed a combined cell and gene therapy that is expected to protect photoreceptors in most, if not all, cases of RP. METHODS Human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) modified with our FailSafe™ system were genetically engineered to overexpress sCX3CL1, an inhibitor of microglia activation that has been shown to preserve photoreceptor survival and function in mouse models of RP, independent of the genetic cause. These cells were differentiated into human retinal pigment epithelium (hRPE) cells and used as therapeutic cells due to their longevity and safety, both of which have been demonstrated in preclinical and clinical studies. Transgenic hRPE were delivered into the subretinal space of immunodeficient mice and the rd10 mouse model of RP to evaluate donor cell survival and retention of transgene expression. The outer nuclear layer was quantified to assess photoreceptor protection. RESULTS Transgenic FailSafe™ hRPE (FS-hRPE) cells can survive for at least four months in the retina of immunodeficient mice and retain transgene expression. However, these cells do not persist beyond two weeks post-injection in the retina of immunocompetent rd10 recipients, despite Cyclosporine A treatment. Nevertheless, sCX3CL1-expressing FailSafe™ hRPE cells prevented photoreceptor degeneration in a local acting manner during the duration of their presence in the subretinal space. CONCLUSIONS Transgenic hESCs differentiate into hRPE cells and retain sCX3CL1 transgene expression both in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, hRPE cells delivered to the subretinal space of rd10 mice prevented photoreceptor degeneration in a local-acting manner, suggesting that this approach could have applications for preserving photoreceptors in specific subregions of the retina, such as the macula. Overall, our study not only reveals the potential of a combined cell and gene therapy for the treatment of RP, but also the possibility of using hRPE cells to deliver therapeutic biologics in situ to treat diseases over long-term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric D Jong
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Sinai Health System, Toronto25 Orde St, 5Th Floor, Room 5-1015, Toronto, ON, M5T 3H7, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Sabiha Hacibekiroglu
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Sinai Health System, Toronto25 Orde St, 5Th Floor, Room 5-1015, Toronto, ON, M5T 3H7, Canada
| | - Lily Guo
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Sinai Health System, Toronto25 Orde St, 5Th Floor, Room 5-1015, Toronto, ON, M5T 3H7, Canada
| | - Evan Sawula
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Sinai Health System, Toronto25 Orde St, 5Th Floor, Room 5-1015, Toronto, ON, M5T 3H7, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Biao Li
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Sinai Health System, Toronto25 Orde St, 5Th Floor, Room 5-1015, Toronto, ON, M5T 3H7, Canada
| | - Chengjin Li
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Sinai Health System, Toronto25 Orde St, 5Th Floor, Room 5-1015, Toronto, ON, M5T 3H7, Canada
| | - Margaret T Ho
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Terrence Donnelly Centre for Cellular & Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Molly S Shoichet
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Terrence Donnelly Centre for Cellular & Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Valerie A Wallace
- Donald K. Johnson Eye Institute, Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Andras Nagy
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Sinai Health System, Toronto25 Orde St, 5Th Floor, Room 5-1015, Toronto, ON, M5T 3H7, Canada.
- Institute of Medical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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Richter K, Wurm C, Strasser K, Bauer J, Bakou M, VerHeul R, Sternisha S, Hawe A, Salomon M, Menzen T, Bhattacharya A. Purity and DNA content of AAV capsids assessed by analytical ultracentrifugation and orthogonal biophysical techniques. Eur J Pharm Biopharm 2023; 189:68-83. [PMID: 37196871 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2023.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Development and manufacturing adeno-associated virus (AAV)-based vectors for gene therapy requires suitable analytical methods to assess the quality of the formulations during development, as well as the quality of different batches and the consistency of the processes. Here, we compare biophysical methods to characterize purity and DNA content of viral capsids from five different serotypes (AAV2, AAV5, AAV6, AAV8, and AAV9). For this purpose, we apply multiwavelength sedimentation velocity analytical ultracentrifugation (SV-AUC) to obtain the species' contents and to derive the wavelength-specific correction factors for the respective insert-size. In an orthogonal manner we perform anion exchange chromatography (AEX) and UV-spectroscopy and the three methods yield comparable results on empty/filled capsid contents with these correction factors. Whereas AEX and UV-spectroscopy can quantify empty and filled AAVs, only SV-AUC could identify the low amounts of partially filled capsids present in the samples used in this study. Finally, we employ negative-staining transmission electron microscopy and mass photometry to support the empty/filled ratios with methods that classify individual capsids. The obtained ratios are consistent throughout the orthogonal approaches as long as no other impurities and aggregates are present. Our results show that the combination of selected orthogonal methods can deliver consistent empty/filled contents on non-standard genome sizes, as well as information on other relevant critical quality attributes, such as AAV capsid concentration, genome concentration, insert size length and sample purity to characterize and compare AAV preparations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klaus Richter
- Coriolis Pharma Research GmbH, Fraunhoferstr. 18 b, 82152 Martinsried, Germany.
| | - Christine Wurm
- Coriolis Pharma Research GmbH, Fraunhoferstr. 18 b, 82152 Martinsried, Germany
| | - Kim Strasser
- Sirion Biotech GmbH, am Haag 6, 82166 Gräfelfing, Germany
| | - Jana Bauer
- Sirion Biotech GmbH, am Haag 6, 82166 Gräfelfing, Germany
| | - Maria Bakou
- Coriolis Pharma Research GmbH, Fraunhoferstr. 18 b, 82152 Martinsried, Germany
| | - Ross VerHeul
- Beckman Coulter Life Sciences, 5350 Lakeview Pkwy S Dr, Indianapolis, IN 46268, USA
| | - Shawn Sternisha
- Beckman Coulter Life Sciences, 5350 Lakeview Pkwy S Dr, Indianapolis, IN 46268, USA
| | - Andrea Hawe
- Coriolis Pharma Research GmbH, Fraunhoferstr. 18 b, 82152 Martinsried, Germany
| | | | - Tim Menzen
- Coriolis Pharma Research GmbH, Fraunhoferstr. 18 b, 82152 Martinsried, Germany
| | - Akash Bhattacharya
- Beckman Coulter Life Sciences, 5350 Lakeview Pkwy S Dr, Indianapolis, IN 46268, USA.
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25
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De BP, Cram S, Lee H, Rosenberg JB, Sondhi D, Crystal RG, Kaminsky SM. Assessment of Residual Full-Length SV40 Large T Antigen in Clinical-Grade Adeno-Associated Virus Vectors Produced in 293T Cells. Hum Gene Ther 2023; 34:697-704. [PMID: 37171121 PMCID: PMC10457653 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2023.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Efficient production of adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors is a significant challenge. Human embryonic kidney HEK293T cells are widely used in good manufacturing practice facilities, producing higher yield of AAV vectors for clinical applications than HEK293 through the addition of a constitutive expression of SV40 large T antigen (SV40T), which stimulates Rep expression. However, the theoretical potential for tumorigenic consequences of a clinical AAV product containing residual DNA encoding SV40T, which may inhibit p53 growth suppressive functions is a safety concern. Although the risk is theoretical, to assure a low risk/high confidence of safety for clinical drug development, we have established a sensitive assay for assessment of functional full-length transcription competent SV40T DNA in HEK293T cell-produced AAV vectors. Using HEK293T generated 8, 9, and rh.10 serotype AAV vectors, the presence of SV40T in purified vector was assessed in vitro using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) targeting a 129 bp amplicon combined with nested PCR targeting full-length SV40T DNA. Although low levels of the smaller amplicon were present in each AAV serotype, the full-length SV40T was undetectable. No transcription competent full-length SV40T DNA was observed by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction using an in vivo amplification of signal in mouse liver administered (2-10 × 1010 gc) 129 bp amplicon-positive AAV vectors. As a control for gene transfer, high levels of expressed transgene mRNAs were observed from each serotype AAV vector, yet, SV40T mRNA was undetectable. In vivo assessment of these three liver-tropic AAV serotypes, each with amplicon-positive qPCR SV40T DNA, demonstrated high transgene mRNA expression but no SV40T mRNA, that is, detection of small segments of SV40T DNA in 293T cell produced AAV inappropriately leads to the conclusion of residuals with the potential to express SV40T. This sensitive assay can be used to assess the level, if any, of SV40T antigen contaminating AAV vectors generated by HEK293T cells. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03634007; NCT05302271; NCT01414985; NCT01161576.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bishnu P. De
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Sara Cram
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Hyunmi Lee
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | | | - Dolan Sondhi
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Ronald G. Crystal
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Stephen M. Kaminsky
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
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26
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Roy P, Kreofsky NW, Brown ME, Van Bruggen C, Reineke TM. Enhancing pDNA Delivery with Hydroquinine Polymers by Modulating Structure and Composition. JACS AU 2023; 3:1876-1889. [PMID: 37502160 PMCID: PMC10369409 DOI: 10.1021/jacsau.3c00126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Quinine is a promising natural product building block for polymer-based nucleic acid delivery vehicles as its structure enables DNA binding through both intercalation and electrostatic interactions. However, studies exploring the potential of quinine-based polymers for nucleic acid delivery applications (transfection) are limited. In this work, we used a hydroquinine-functionalized monomer, HQ, with 2-hydroxyethyl acrylate to create a family of seven polymers (HQ-X, X = mole percentage of HQ), with mole percentages of HQ ranging from 12 to 100%. We developed a flow cytometer-based assay for studying the polymer-pDNA complexes (polyplex particles) directly and demonstrate that polymer composition and monomer structure influence polyplex characteristics such as the pDNA loading and the extent of adsorption of serum proteins on polyplex particles. Biological delivery experiments revealed that maximum transgene expression, outperforming commercial controls, was achieved with HQ-25 and HQ-35 as these two variants sustained gene expression over 96 h. HQ-44, HQ-60, and HQ-100 were not successful in inducing transgene expression, despite being able to deliver pDNA into the cells, highlighting that the release of pDNA is likely the bottleneck in transfection for polymers with higher HQ content. Using confocal imaging, we quantified the extent of colocalization between pDNA and lysosomes, proving the remarkable endosomal escape capabilities of the HQ-X polymers. Overall, this study demonstrates the advantages of HQ-X polymers as well as provides guiding principles for improving the monomer structure and polymer composition, supporting the development of the next generation of polymer-based nucleic acid delivery vehicles harnessing the power of natural products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Punarbasu Roy
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Nicholas W. Kreofsky
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Mary E. Brown
- University
Imaging Centers, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Craig Van Bruggen
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Theresa M. Reineke
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
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27
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Ghanem B, Seoane-Vazquez E, Brown L, Rodriguez-Monguio R. Analysis of the Gene Therapies Authorized by the United States Food and Drug Administration and the European Medicines Agency. Med Care 2023; 61:438-447. [PMID: 36884030 DOI: 10.1097/mlr.0000000000001840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gene therapy, altering the genes inside human cells, has recently emerged as an alternative for preventing and treating disease. Concerns have been expressed about the clinical value and the high cost of gene therapies. OBJECTIVE This study assessed the characteristics of the clinical trials, authorizations, and prices of gene therapies in the United States and the European Union. RESEARCH DESIGN We collected regulatory information from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and manufacturer-listed prices from the United States, UK, and Germany. Descriptive statistics and t tests were conducted in the study. RESULTS As of January 1, 2022, the FDA and EMA authorized 8 and 10 gene therapies, respectively. The FDA and EMA granted orphan designation to all gene therapies except talimogene laherparepvec. Pivotal clinical trials were nonrandomized, open level, uncontrolled, phase I-III, and included a limited number of patients. Study primary outcomes were mainly surrogate endpoints without demonstration of direct patient benefit. The price of gene therapies at market entry ranged from $200,064 to $2,125,000 million. CONCLUSIONS Gene therapy is used to treat incurable diseases that affect only a small number of patients (orphan diseases). Based on this, they are approved by the EMA and FDA with insufficient clinical evidence to ensure safety and efficacy, in addition to the high cost.
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Affiliation(s)
- Buthainah Ghanem
- Department of Pharmaceutical Economics and Policy, Chapman University School of Pharmacy, Irvine
| | - Enrique Seoane-Vazquez
- Department of Pharmaceutical Economics and Policy, Chapman University School of Pharmacy, Irvine
- Economic Science Institute, Chapman University, Orange
| | - Lawrence Brown
- Department of Pharmaceutical Economics and Policy, Chapman University School of Pharmacy, Irvine
| | - Rosa Rodriguez-Monguio
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy
- Medication Outcomes Center
- Philip R. Lee Institute for Health Policy Studies, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
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28
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Obeng EM, Fulcher AJ, Wagstaff KM. Harnessing sortase A transpeptidation for advanced targeted therapeutics and vaccine engineering. Biotechnol Adv 2023; 64:108108. [PMID: 36740026 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2023.108108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Revised: 01/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The engineering of potent prophylactic and therapeutic complexes has always required careful protein modification techniques with seamless capabilities. In this light, methods that favor unobstructed multivalent targeting and correct antigen presentations remain essential and very demanding. Sortase A (SrtA) transpeptidation has exhibited these attributes in various settings over the years. However, its applications for engineering avidity-inspired therapeutics and potent vaccines have yet to be significantly noticed, especially in this era where active targeting and multivalent nanomedications are in great demand. This review briefly presents the SrtA enzyme and its associated transpeptidation activity and describes interesting sortase-mediated protein engineering and chemistry approaches for achieving multivalent therapeutic and antigenic responses. The review further highlights advanced applications in targeted delivery systems, multivalent therapeutics, adoptive cellular therapy, and vaccine engineering. These innovations show the potential of sortase-mediated techniques in facilitating the development of simple plug-and-play nanomedicine technologies against recalcitrant diseases and pandemics such as cancer and viral infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugene M Obeng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia.
| | - Alex J Fulcher
- Monash Micro Imaging, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Kylie M Wagstaff
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia.
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29
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Thoidingjam S, Sriramulu S, Freytag S, Brown SL, Kim JH, Chetty IJ, Siddiqui F, Movsas B, Nyati S. Oncolytic virus-based suicide gene therapy for cancer treatment: a perspective of the clinical trials conducted at Henry Ford Health. TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE COMMUNICATIONS 2023; 8:11. [PMID: 37065938 PMCID: PMC10088621 DOI: 10.1186/s41231-023-00144-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Gene therapy manipulates or modifies a gene that provides a new cellular function to treat or correct a pathological condition, such as cancer. The approach of using gene manipulation to modify patient's cells to improve cancer therapy and potentially find a cure is gaining popularity. Currently, there are 12 gene therapy products approved by US-FDA, EMA and CFDA for cancer management, these include Rexin-G, Gendicine, Oncorine, Provange among other. The Radiation Biology Research group at Henry Ford Health has been actively developing gene therapy approaches for improving clinical outcome in cancer patients. The team was the first to test a replication-competent oncolytic virus armed with a therapeutic gene in humans, to combine this approach with radiation in humans, and to image replication-competent adenoviral gene expression/activity in humans. The adenoviral gene therapy products developed at Henry Ford Health have been evaluated in more than 6 preclinical studies and evaluated in 9 investigator initiated clinical trials treating more than100 patients. Two phase I clinical trials are currently following patients long term and a phase I trial for recurrent glioma was initiated in November 2022. This systematic review provides an overview of gene therapy approaches and products employed for treating cancer patients including the products developed at Henry Ford Health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shivani Thoidingjam
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Henry Ford Health, 1 Ford Place, 5D-42, Detroit, MI 48202 USA
| | - Sushmitha Sriramulu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Henry Ford Health, 1 Ford Place, 5D-42, Detroit, MI 48202 USA
| | - Svend Freytag
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Henry Ford Health, 1 Ford Place, 5D-42, Detroit, MI 48202 USA
| | - Stephen L. Brown
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Henry Ford Health, 1 Ford Place, 5D-42, Detroit, MI 48202 USA
- College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824 USA
| | - Jae Ho Kim
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Henry Ford Health, 1 Ford Place, 5D-42, Detroit, MI 48202 USA
| | - Indrin J. Chetty
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Henry Ford Health, 1 Ford Place, 5D-42, Detroit, MI 48202 USA
| | - Farzan Siddiqui
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Henry Ford Health, 1 Ford Place, 5D-42, Detroit, MI 48202 USA
| | - Benjamin Movsas
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Henry Ford Health, 1 Ford Place, 5D-42, Detroit, MI 48202 USA
- College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824 USA
| | - Shyam Nyati
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Henry Ford Health, 1 Ford Place, 5D-42, Detroit, MI 48202 USA
- College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824 USA
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30
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Anwar S, Mir F, Yokota T. Enhancing the Effectiveness of Oligonucleotide Therapeutics Using Cell-Penetrating Peptide Conjugation, Chemical Modification, and Carrier-Based Delivery Strategies. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15041130. [PMID: 37111616 PMCID: PMC10140998 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15041130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Oligonucleotide-based therapies are a promising approach for treating a wide range of hard-to-treat diseases, particularly genetic and rare diseases. These therapies involve the use of short synthetic sequences of DNA or RNA that can modulate gene expression or inhibit proteins through various mechanisms. Despite the potential of these therapies, a significant barrier to their widespread use is the difficulty in ensuring their uptake by target cells/tissues. Strategies to overcome this challenge include cell-penetrating peptide conjugation, chemical modification, nanoparticle formulation, and the use of endogenous vesicles, spherical nucleic acids, and smart material-based delivery vehicles. This article provides an overview of these strategies and their potential for the efficient delivery of oligonucleotide drugs, as well as the safety and toxicity considerations, regulatory requirements, and challenges in translating these therapies from the laboratory to the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saeed Anwar
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2H7, Canada
| | - Farin Mir
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2H7, Canada
| | - Toshifumi Yokota
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2H7, Canada
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31
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Yong Joon Kim J, Sang Z, Xiang Y, Shen Z, Shi Y. Nanobodies: Robust miniprotein binders in biomedicine. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2023; 195:114726. [PMID: 36754285 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2023.114726] [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: 05/19/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
Variable domains of heavy chain-only antibodies (VHH), also known as nanobodies (Nbs), are monomeric antigen-binding domains derived from the camelid heavy chain-only antibodies. Nbs are characterized by small size, high target selectivity, and marked solubility and stability, which collectively facilitate high-quality drug development. In addition, Nbs are readily expressed from various expression systems, including E. coli and yeast cells. For these reasons, Nbs have emerged as preferred antibody fragments for protein engineering, disease diagnosis, and treatment. To date, two Nb-based therapies have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Numerous candidates spanning a wide spectrum of diseases such as cancer, immune disorders, infectious diseases, and neurodegenerative disorders are under preclinical and clinical investigation. Here, we discuss the structural features of Nbs that allow for specific, versatile, and strong target binding. We also summarize emerging technologies for identification, structural analysis, and humanization of Nbs. Our main focus is to review recent advances in using Nbs as a modular scaffold to facilitate the engineering of multivalent polymers for cutting-edge applications. Finally, we discuss remaining challenges for Nb development and envision new opportunities in Nb-based research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey Yong Joon Kim
- Center of Protein Engineering and Therapeutics, Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1, Gustave L. Levy Pl, New York, NY 10029, USA; Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Zhe Sang
- Center of Protein Engineering and Therapeutics, Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1, Gustave L. Levy Pl, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Yufei Xiang
- Center of Protein Engineering and Therapeutics, Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1, Gustave L. Levy Pl, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Zhuolun Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yi Shi
- Center of Protein Engineering and Therapeutics, Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1, Gustave L. Levy Pl, New York, NY 10029, USA.
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32
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Borzooee Moghadam N, Avatefi M, Karimi M, Mahmoudifard M. Graphene family in cancer therapy: recent progress in cancer gene/drug delivery applications. J Mater Chem B 2023; 11:2568-2613. [PMID: 36883982 DOI: 10.1039/d2tb01858f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
In the past few years, the development in the construction and architecture of graphene based nanocomplexes has dramatically accelerated the use of nano-graphene for therapeutic and diagnostic purposes, fostering a new area of nano-cancer therapy. To be specific, nano-graphene is increasingly used in cancer therapy, where diagnosis and treatment are coupled to deal with the clinical difficulties and challenges of this lethal disease. As a distinct family of nanomaterials, graphene derivatives exhibit outstanding structural, mechanical, electrical, optical, and thermal capabilities. Concurrently, they can transport a wide variety of synthetic agents, including medicines and biomolecules, such as nucleic acid sequences (DNA and RNA). Herewith, we first provide an overview of the most effective functionalizing agents for graphene derivatives and afterward discuss the significant improvements in the gene and drug delivery composites based on graphene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Negin Borzooee Moghadam
- Department of Industrial and Environmental Biotechnology, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (NIGEB), Tehran, Iran.
| | - Manizheh Avatefi
- Department of Industrial and Environmental Biotechnology, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (NIGEB), Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mahnaz Karimi
- Department of Industrial and Environmental Biotechnology, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (NIGEB), Tehran, Iran.
| | - Matin Mahmoudifard
- Department of Industrial and Environmental Biotechnology, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (NIGEB), Tehran, Iran.
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Yi JY, Kim M, Ahn JH, Kim BG, Son J, Sung C. CRISPR/deadCas9-based high-throughput gene doping analysis (HiGDA): A proof of concept for exogenous human erythropoietin gene doping detection. Talanta 2023; 258:124455. [PMID: 36933297 DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2023.124455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023]
Abstract
A genetic approach targeted toward improving athletic performance is called gene doping and is prohibited by the World Anti-Doping Agency. Currently, the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats-associated protein (Cas)-related assays have been utilized to detect genetic deficiencies or mutations. Among the Cas proteins, deadCas9 (dCas9), a nuclease-deficient mutant of Cas9, acts as a DNA binding protein with a target-specific single guide RNA. On the basis of the principles, we developed a dCas9-based high-throughput gene doping analysis for exogenous gene detection. The assay comprises two distinctive dCas9s, a magnetic bead immobilized capture dCas9 for exogenous gene isolation and a biotinylated dCas9 with streptavidin-polyHRP that enables rapid signal amplification. For efficient biotin labeling via maleimide-thiol chemistry, two cysteine residues of dCas9 were structurally validated, and the Cys574 residue was identified as an essential labeling site. As a result, we succeeded in detecting the target gene in a concentration as low as 12.3 fM (7.41 × 105 copies) and up to 10 nM (6.07 × 1011 copies) in a whole blood sample within 1 h with HiGDA. Assuming an exogenous gene transfer scenario, we added a direct blood amplification step to establish a rapid analytical procedure while detecting target genes with high sensitivity. Finally, we detected the exogenous human erythropoietin gene at concentrations as low as 2.5 copies within 90 min in 5 μL of the blood sample. Herein, we propose that HiGDA is a very fast, highly sensitive, and practical detection method for actual doping field in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joon-Yeop Yi
- Doping Control Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, 02792, South Korea; Interdisciplinary Program of Bioengineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, South Korea; Institute of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, South Korea
| | - Minyoung Kim
- Doping Control Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, 02792, South Korea
| | - Jung Ho Ahn
- Clean Energy Research Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, 02792, South Korea
| | - Byung-Gee Kim
- Interdisciplinary Program of Bioengineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, South Korea; Institute of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, South Korea; Bio-Max/N-Bio Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, South Korea; School of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, South Korea; Institute for Sustainable Development (ISD), Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, South Korea
| | - Junghyun Son
- Doping Control Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, 02792, South Korea
| | - Changmin Sung
- Doping Control Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, 02792, South Korea.
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Moreno-Gutierrez DS, Del Toro-Ríos X, Martinez-Sulvaran NJ, Perez-Altamirano MB, Hernandez-Garcia A. Programming the Cellular Uptake of Protein-Based Viromimetic Nanoparticles for Enhanced Delivery. Biomacromolecules 2023; 24:1563-1573. [PMID: 36877960 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.2c01295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
Viral mimetics is a noteworthy strategy to design efficient delivery systems without the safety drawbacks and engineering difficulties of modifying viral vectors. The triblock polypeptide CSB was previously designed de novo to self-assemble with DNA into nanocomplexes called artificial virus-like particles (AVLPs) due to their similarities to viral particles. Here, we show how we can incorporate new blocks into the CSB polypeptide to enhance its transfection without altering its self-assembly capabilities and the stability and morphology of the AVLPs. The addition of a short peptide (aurein) and/or a large protein (transferrin) to the AVLPs improved their internalization and specific targeting to cells by up to 11 times. Overall, these results show how we can further program the cellular uptake of the AVLPs with a wide range of bioactive blocks. This can pave the way to develop programmable and efficient gene delivery systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- David S Moreno-Gutierrez
- Laboratory of Biomolecular Engineering and Bionanotechnology, Department of Chemistry of Biomacromolecules, Institute of Chemistry, UNAM, 04510 Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Ximena Del Toro-Ríos
- Laboratory of Biomolecular Engineering and Bionanotechnology, Department of Chemistry of Biomacromolecules, Institute of Chemistry, UNAM, 04510 Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Natalia J Martinez-Sulvaran
- Laboratory of Biomolecular Engineering and Bionanotechnology, Department of Chemistry of Biomacromolecules, Institute of Chemistry, UNAM, 04510 Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Mayra B Perez-Altamirano
- Laboratory of Biomolecular Engineering and Bionanotechnology, Department of Chemistry of Biomacromolecules, Institute of Chemistry, UNAM, 04510 Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Armando Hernandez-Garcia
- Laboratory of Biomolecular Engineering and Bionanotechnology, Department of Chemistry of Biomacromolecules, Institute of Chemistry, UNAM, 04510 Mexico City, Mexico
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Genetic advancements in obesity management and CRISPR-Cas9-based gene editing system. Mol Cell Biochem 2023; 478:491-501. [PMID: 35909208 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-022-04518-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
Human genome research has reached new heights in the recent decade thanks to a major advance in genome editing. Genome editing enables scientists to understand better the functions of a single gene and its impact on a wide range of diseases. In brief, genome editing is a technique for introducing alterations into specific DNA sequences, such as insertions, deletions, or base substitutions. Several methods are adopted to perform genome editing and clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated nuclease 9 (Cas9) systems. Unfortunately, despite substantial progress in understanding the molecular pathways behind obesity, anti-obesity medications are now ineffective. If you are obese, a 10% weight decrease would be preferable to healthy body weight for most people. CRISPR-Cas9, on the other hand, has been shown to reduce body weight by an astonishing 20%. Hence, this updated review elaborates on the molecular basis of obesity, risk factors, types of gene therapy, possible mechanisms, and advantages of the CRISPR-Cas9 system over other methods.
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Yang J, Luly KM, Green JJ. Nonviral nanoparticle gene delivery into the CNS for neurological disorders and brain cancer applications. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. NANOMEDICINE AND NANOBIOTECHNOLOGY 2023; 15:e1853. [PMID: 36193561 PMCID: PMC10023321 DOI: 10.1002/wnan.1853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Revised: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 03/15/2023]
Abstract
Nonviral nanoparticles have emerged as an attractive alternative to viral vectors for gene therapy applications, utilizing a range of lipid-based, polymeric, and inorganic materials. These materials can either encapsulate or be functionalized to bind nucleic acids and protect them from degradation. To effectively elicit changes to gene expression, the nanoparticle carrier needs to undergo a series of steps intracellularly, from interacting with the cellular membrane to facilitate cellular uptake to endosomal escape and nucleic acid release. Adjusting physiochemical properties of the nanoparticles, such as size, charge, and targeting ligands, can improve cellular uptake and ultimately gene delivery. Applications in the central nervous system (CNS; i.e., neurological diseases, brain cancers) face further extracellular barriers for a gene-carrying nanoparticle to surpass, with the most significant being the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Approaches to overcome these extracellular challenges to deliver nanoparticles into the CNS include systemic, intracerebroventricular, intrathecal, and intranasal administration. This review describes and compares different biomaterials for nonviral nanoparticle-mediated gene therapy to the CNS and explores challenges and recent preclinical and clinical developments in overcoming barriers to nanoparticle-mediated delivery to the brain. This article is categorized under: Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Nanomedicine for Neurological Disease Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Emerging Technologies Nanotechnology Approaches to Biology > Nanoscale Systems in Biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Yang
- Departments of Biomedical Engineering, Ophthalmology, Oncology, Neurosurgery, Materials Science & Engineering, and Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Kathryn M Luly
- Departments of Biomedical Engineering, Ophthalmology, Oncology, Neurosurgery, Materials Science & Engineering, and Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Jordan J Green
- Departments of Biomedical Engineering, Ophthalmology, Oncology, Neurosurgery, Materials Science & Engineering, and Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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Therapeutic strategies for autism: targeting three levels of the central dogma of molecular biology. Transl Psychiatry 2023; 13:58. [PMID: 36792602 PMCID: PMC9931756 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-023-02356-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The past decade has yielded much success in the identification of risk genes for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), with many studies implicating loss-of-function (LoF) mutations within these genes. Despite this, no significant clinical advances have been made so far in the development of therapeutics for ASD. Given the role of LoF mutations in ASD etiology, many of the therapeutics in development are designed to rescue the haploinsufficient effect of genes at the transcriptional, translational, and protein levels. This review will discuss the various therapeutic techniques being developed from each level of the central dogma with examples including: CRISPR activation (CRISPRa) and gene replacement at the DNA level, antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) at the mRNA level, and small-molecule drugs at the protein level, followed by a review of current delivery methods for these therapeutics. Since central nervous system (CNS) penetrance is of utmost importance for ASD therapeutics, it is especially necessary to evaluate delivery methods that have higher efficiency in crossing the blood-brain barrier (BBB).
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Chavda VP, Bezbaruah R, Valu D, Patel B, Kumar A, Prasad S, Kakoti BB, Kaushik A, Jesawadawala M. Adenoviral Vector-Based Vaccine Platform for COVID-19: Current Status. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:vaccines11020432. [PMID: 36851309 PMCID: PMC9965371 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11020432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) breakout had an unimaginable worldwide effect in the 21st century, claiming millions of lives and putting a huge burden on the global economy. The potential developments in vaccine technologies following the determination of the genetic sequence of SARS-CoV-2 and the increasing global efforts to bring potential vaccines and therapeutics into the market for emergency use have provided a small bright spot to this tragic event. Several intriguing vaccine candidates have been developed using recombinant technology, genetic engineering, and other vaccine development technologies. In the last decade, a vast amount of the vaccine development process has diversified towards the usage of viral vector-based vaccines. The immune response elicited by such vaccines is comparatively higher than other approved vaccine candidates that require a booster dose to provide sufficient immune protection. The non-replicating adenoviral vectors are promising vaccine carriers for infectious diseases due to better yield, cGMP-friendly manufacturing processes, safety, better efficacy, manageable shipping, and storage procedures. As of April 2022, the WHO has approved a total of 10 vaccines around the world for COVID-19 (33 vaccines approved by at least one country), among which three candidates are adenoviral vector-based vaccines. This review sheds light on the developmental summary of all the adenoviral vector-based vaccines that are under emergency use authorization (EUA) or in the different stages of development for COVID-19 management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivek P. Chavda
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, L. M. College of Pharmacy, Ahmedabad 380009, Gujarat, India
- Correspondence: or ; Tel.: +91-7030-919-407
| | - Rajashri Bezbaruah
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Dibrugarh University, Dibrugarh 786004, Assam, India
| | - Disha Valu
- Drug Product Development Laboratory, Biopharma Division, Intas Pharmaceutical Ltd., Moraiya, Ahmedabad 382213, Gujarat, India
| | - Bindra Patel
- Pharmacy Section, L. M. College of Pharmacy, Ahmedabad 380009, Gujarat, India
| | - Anup Kumar
- Pharmacy Section, L. M. College of Pharmacy, Ahmedabad 380009, Gujarat, India
| | - Sanjay Prasad
- Cell and Gene Therapy Drug Product Development Laboratory, Biopharma Division, Intas Pharmaceutical Ltd., Moraiya, Ahmedabad 382213, Gujarat, India
| | - Bibhuti Bhusan Kakoti
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Dibrugarh University, Dibrugarh 786004, Assam, India
| | - Ajeet Kaushik
- NanoBioTech Laboratory, Health Systems Engineering, Department of Environmental Engineering, Florida Polytechnic University, Lakeland, FL 33805-8531, USA
| | - Mariya Jesawadawala
- Pharmacy Section, L. M. College of Pharmacy, Ahmedabad 380009, Gujarat, India
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Research Status and Prospect of Non-Viral Vectors Based on siRNA: A Review. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24043375. [PMID: 36834783 PMCID: PMC9962405 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Gene therapy has attracted much attention because of its unique mechanism of action, non-toxicity, and good tolerance, which can kill cancer cells without damaging healthy tissues. siRNA-based gene therapy can downregulate, enhance, or correct gene expression by introducing some nucleic acid into patient tissues. Routine treatment of hemophilia requires frequent intravenous injections of missing clotting protein. The high cost of combined therapy causes most patients to lack the best treatment resources. siRNA therapy has the potential of lasting treatment and even curing diseases. Compared with traditional surgery and chemotherapy, siRNA has fewer side effects and less damage to normal cells. The available therapies for degenerative diseases can only alleviate the symptoms of patients, while siRNA therapy drugs can upregulate gene expression, modify epigenetic changes, and stop the disease. In addition, siRNA also plays an important role in cardiovascular diseases, gastrointestinal diseases, and hepatitis B. However, free siRNA is easily degraded by nuclease and has a short half-life in the blood. Research has found that siRNA can be delivered to specific cells through appropriate vector selection and design to improve the therapeutic effect. The application of viral vectors is limited because of their high immunogenicity and low capacity, while non-viral vectors are widely used because of their low immunogenicity, low production cost, and high safety. This paper reviews the common non-viral vectors in recent years and introduces their advantages and disadvantages, as well as the latest application examples.
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Penon-Portmann M, Blair DR, Harmatz P. Current and new therapies for mucopolysaccharidoses. Pediatr Neonatol 2023; 64 Suppl 1:S10-S17. [PMID: 36464587 DOI: 10.1016/j.pedneo.2022.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The mucopolysaccharidoses (MPSs) are a subset of lysosomal storage diseases caused by deficiencies in the enzymes required to metabolize glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), a group of extracellular heteropolysaccharides that play diverse roles in human physiology. As a result, GAGs accumulate in multiple tissues, and affected patients typically develop progressive, multi-systemic symptoms in early childhood. Over the last 30 years, the treatments available for the MPSs have evolved tremendously. There are now multiple therapies that delay the progression of these debilitating disorders, although their effectiveness varies according to MPS sub-type. In this review, we discuss the basic principle underlying MPS treatment (enzymatic "cross correction"), and we review the three general modalities currently available: hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, enzymatic replacement, and gene therapy. For each treatment type, we discuss its effectiveness across the MPS subtypes, its inherent risks, and future directions. Long term, we suspect that treatment for the MPSs will continue to evolve, and through a combination of early diagnosis and effective management, these patients will continue to live longer lives with improved outcomes for quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Penon-Portmann
- UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital Oakland, Oakland, CA, USA; Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, WA, USA.
| | - David R Blair
- UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital Oakland, Oakland, CA, USA; Division of Medical Genetics and Genomics, Department of Pediatrics, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Paul Harmatz
- UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital Oakland, Oakland, CA, USA
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da Silva TN, de Lima EV, Barradas TN, Testa CG, Picciani PH, Figueiredo CP, do Carmo FA, Clarke JR. Nanosystems for gene therapy targeting brain damage caused by viral infections. Mater Today Bio 2023; 18:100525. [PMID: 36619201 PMCID: PMC9816812 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2022.100525] [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: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Several human pathogens can cause long-lasting neurological damage. Despite the increasing clinical knowledge about these conditions, most still lack efficient therapeutic interventions. Gene therapy (GT) approaches comprise strategies to modify or adjust the expression or function of a gene, thus providing therapy for human diseases. Since recombinant nucleic acids used in GT have physicochemical limitations and can fail to reach the desired tissue, viral and non-viral vectors are applied to mediate gene delivery. Although viral vectors are associated to high levels of transfection, non-viral vectors are safer and have been further explored. Different types of nanosystems consisting of lipids, polymeric and inorganic materials are applied as non-viral vectors. In this review, we discuss potential targets for GT intervention in order to prevent neurological damage associated to infectious diseases as well as the role of nanosized non-viral vectors as agents to help the selective delivery of these gene-modifying molecules. Application of non-viral vectors for delivery of GT effectors comprise a promising alternative to treat brain inflammation induced by viral infections.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Emanuelle V. de Lima
- Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941-902, Brazil
| | - Thaís Nogueira Barradas
- Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora, MG, 36036-900, Brazil
| | - Carla G. Testa
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941-902, Brazil
| | - Paulo H.S. Picciani
- Instituto de Macromoléculas Professora Eloisa Mano, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (IMA/UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941-598, Brazil
| | - Claudia P. Figueiredo
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941-902, Brazil
| | - Flavia A. do Carmo
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941-902, Brazil
- Corresponding author.
| | - Julia R. Clarke
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941-902, Brazil
- Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941-902, Brazil
- Corresponding author. Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941-902, Brazil.
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Puhl DL, Funnell JL, Fink TD, Swaminathan A, Oudega M, Zha RH, Gilbert RJ. Electrospun fiber-mediated delivery of neurotrophin-3 mRNA for neural tissue engineering applications. Acta Biomater 2023; 155:370-385. [PMID: 36423820 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2022.11.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2022] [Revised: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Aligned electrospun fibers provide topographical cues and local therapeutic delivery to facilitate robust peripheral nerve regeneration. mRNA delivery enables transient expression of desired proteins that promote axonal regeneration. However, no prior work delivers mRNA from electrospun fibers for peripheral nerve regeneration applications. Here, we developed the first aligned electrospun fibers to deliver pseudouridine-modified (Ψ) neurotrophin-3 (NT-3) mRNA (ΨNT-3mRNA) to primary Schwann cells and assessed NT-3 secretion and bioactivity. We first electrospun aligned poly(L-lactic acid) (PLLA) fibers and coated them with the anionic substrates dextran sulfate sodium salt (DSS) or poly(3,4-dihydroxy-L-phenylalanine) (pDOPA). Cationic lipoplexes containing ΨNT-3mRNA complexed to JetMESSENGER® were then immobilized to the fibers, resulting in detectable ΨNT-3mRNA release for 28 days from all fiber groups investigated (PLLA+mRNA, 0.5DSS4h+mRNA, and 2pDOPA4h+mRNA). The 2pDOPA4h+mRNA group significantly increased Schwann cell secretion of NT-3 for 21 days compared to control PLLA fibers (p < 0.001-0.05) and, on average, increased Schwann cell secretion of NT-3 by ≥ 2-fold compared to bolus mRNA delivery from the 1µgBolus+mRNA and 3µgBolus+mRNA groups. The 2pDOPA4h+mRNA fibers supported Schwann cell secretion of NT-3 at levels that significantly increased dorsal root ganglia (DRG) neurite extension by 44% (p < 0.0001) and neurite area by 64% (p < 0.001) compared to control PLLA fibers. The data show that the 2pDOPA4h+mRNA fibers enhance the ability of Schwann cells to promote neurite growth from DRG, demonstrating this platform's potential capability to improve peripheral nerve regeneration. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Aligned electrospun fibers enhance axonal regeneration by providing structural support and guidance cues, but further therapeutic stimulation is necessary to improve functional outcomes. mRNA delivery enables the transient expression of therapeutic proteins, yet achieving local, sustained delivery remains challenging. Previous work shows that genetic material delivery from electrospun fibers improves regeneration; however, mRNA delivery has not been explored. Here, we examine mRNA delivery from aligned electrospun fibers to enhance neurite outgrowth. We show that immobilization of NT-3mRNA/JetMESSENGER® lipoplexes to aligned electrospun fibers functionalized with pDOPA enables local, sustained NT-3mRNA delivery to Schwann cells, increasing Schwann cell secretion of NT-3 and enhancing DRG neurite outgrowth. This study displays the potential benefits of electrospun fiber-mediated mRNA delivery platforms for neural tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devan L Puhl
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA; Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA
| | - Jessica L Funnell
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA; Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA
| | - Tanner D Fink
- Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA; Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA
| | - Anuj Swaminathan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA; Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA
| | - Martin Oudega
- Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, Chicago, IL, USA; Department of Physical Therapy and Human Movement Sciences, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA; Edward Hines Jr VA Hospital, Hines, IL, USA
| | - R Helen Zha
- Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA; Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA
| | - Ryan J Gilbert
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA; Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA.
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Abstract
Mutations in the TP53 tumour suppressor gene are very frequent in cancer, and attempts to restore the functionality of p53 in tumours as a therapeutic strategy began decades ago. However, very few of these drug development programmes have reached late-stage clinical trials, and no p53-based therapeutics have been approved in the USA or Europe so far. This is probably because, as a nuclear transcription factor, p53 does not possess typical drug target features and has therefore long been considered undruggable. Nevertheless, several promising approaches towards p53-based therapy have emerged in recent years, including improved versions of earlier strategies and novel approaches to make undruggable targets druggable. Small molecules that can either protect p53 from its negative regulators or restore the functionality of mutant p53 proteins are gaining interest, and drugs tailored to specific types of p53 mutants are emerging. In parallel, there is renewed interest in gene therapy strategies and p53-based immunotherapy approaches. However, major concerns still remain to be addressed. This Review re-evaluates the efforts made towards targeting p53-dysfunctional cancers, and discusses the challenges encountered during clinical development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ori Hassin
- grid.13992.300000 0004 0604 7563Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Moshe Oren
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel.
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CRISPR/Cas9 in the era of nanomedicine and synthetic biology. Drug Discov Today 2023; 28:103375. [PMID: 36174966 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2022.103375] [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: 06/19/2022] [Revised: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
The CRISPR/Cas system was first discovered as a defense mechanism in bacteria and is now used as a tool for precise gene-editing applications. Rapidly evolving, it is increasingly applied in therapeutics. However, concerns about safety, specificity, and delivery still limit its potential. In this context, we introduce the concept of nanogenetics and speculate how the rational engineering of the CRISPR/Cas machinery could advance the biomedical field. In nanogenetics, the advantages of traditional approaches of synthetic biology could be expanded by nanotechnology approaches, enabling the design of a new generation of intrinsically safe and specific genome-editing platforms.
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Corridon PR. Still finding ways to augment the existing management of acute and chronic kidney diseases with targeted gene and cell therapies: Opportunities and hurdles. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1143028. [PMID: 36960337 PMCID: PMC10028138 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1143028] [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: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The rising global incidence of acute and chronic kidney diseases has increased the demand for renal replacement therapy. This issue, compounded with the limited availability of viable kidneys for transplantation, has propelled the search for alternative strategies to address the growing health and economic burdens associated with these conditions. In the search for such alternatives, significant efforts have been devised to augment the current and primarily supportive management of renal injury with novel regenerative strategies. For example, gene- and cell-based approaches that utilize recombinant peptides/proteins, gene, cell, organoid, and RNAi technologies have shown promising outcomes primarily in experimental models. Supporting research has also been conducted to improve our understanding of the critical aspects that facilitate the development of efficient gene- and cell-based techniques that the complex structure of the kidney has traditionally limited. This manuscript is intended to communicate efforts that have driven the development of such therapies by identifying the vectors and delivery routes needed to drive exogenous transgene incorporation that may support the treatment of acute and chronic kidney diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter R. Corridon
- Department of Immunology and Physiology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Biomedical Engineering, Healthcare Engineering Innovation Center, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Center for Biotechnology, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- *Correspondence: Peter R. Corridon,
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Enabling Precision Medicine with CRISPR-Cas Genome Editing Technology: A Translational Perspective. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2023; 1396:315-339. [DOI: 10.1007/978-981-19-5642-3_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
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Xu K, Yu L, Wang Z, Lin P, Zhang N, Xing Y, Yang N. Use of gene therapy for optic nerve protection: Current concepts. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1158030. [PMID: 37090805 PMCID: PMC10117674 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1158030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Gene therapy has become an essential treatment for optic nerve injury (ONI) in recent years, and great strides have been made using animal models. ONI, which is characterized by the loss of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and axons, can induce abnormalities in the pupil light reflex, visual field defects, and even vision loss. The eye is a natural organ to target with gene therapy because of its high accessibility and certain immune privilege. As such, numerous gene therapy trials are underway for treating eye diseases such as glaucoma. The aim of this review was to cover research progress made in gene therapy for ONI. Specifically, we focus on the potential of gene therapy to prevent the progression of neurodegenerative diseases and protect both RGCs and axons. We cover the basic information of gene therapy, including the classification of gene therapy, especially focusing on genome editing therapy, and then we introduce common editing tools and vector tools such as Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR) -Cas9 and adeno-associated virus (AAV). We also summarize the progress made on understanding the roles of brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF), phosphatase-tensin homolog (PTEN), suppressor of cytokine signal transduction 3 (SOCS3), histone acetyltransferases (HATs), and other important molecules in optic nerve protection. However, gene therapy still has many challenges, such as misalignment and mutations, immunogenicity of AAV, time it takes and economic cost involved, which means that these issues need to be addressed before clinical trials can be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kexin Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Lu Yu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Department of Ophthalmology, Aier Eye Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Zhiyi Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Pei Lin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Ningzhi Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yiqiao Xing
- Department of Ophthalmology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Department of Ophthalmology, Aier Eye Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- *Correspondence: Yiqiao Xing,
| | - Ning Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Ning Yang,
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Dalal RJ, Ohnsorg ML, Panda S, Reineke TM. Hydrophilic Surface Modification of Cationic Unimolecular Bottlebrush Vectors Moderate pDNA and RNP Bottleplex Stability and Delivery Efficacy. Biomacromolecules 2022; 23:5179-5192. [PMID: 36445696 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.2c00999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
A cationic unimolecular bottlebrush polymer with chemically modified end-groups was synthesized to understand the impact of hydrophilicity on colloidal stability, nucleic acid delivery performance, and toxicity. The bottlebrush polymer template was synthesized using grafting-through techniques and was therefore composed of a polynorbornene backbone with poly(2-(dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate) side chains with dodecyl trithiocarbonate end-groups. Postpolymerization modification was performed to fully remove the end-groups or install hydroxy and methoxy poly(ethylene glycol) functional groups on the bottlebrush exterior. The bottlebrush family was preformulated with biological payloads of pDNA and CRISPR-Cas9 RNP in both water and PBS to understand binding, aggregation kinetics, cytotoxicity, and delivery efficacy. Increasing end-group hydrophilicity and preformulation of bottleplexes in PBS increased colloidal stability and cellular viability; however, this did not always result in increased transfection efficiency. The bottlebrush family exemplifies how formulation conditions, polymer loading, and end-group functionality of bottlebrushes can be tuned to balance expression with cytotoxicity ratios and result in enhanced overall performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rishad J Dalal
- Department of Chemistry, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Monica L Ohnsorg
- Department of Chemistry, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Sidharth Panda
- Department of Chemistry, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Theresa M Reineke
- Department of Chemistry, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
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Pupo A, Fernández A, Low SH, François A, Suárez-Amarán L, Samulski RJ. AAV vectors: The Rubik's cube of human gene therapy. Mol Ther 2022; 30:3515-3541. [PMID: 36203359 PMCID: PMC9734031 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2022.09.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 43.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Defective genes account for ∼80% of the total of more than 7,000 diseases known to date. Gene therapy brings the promise of a one-time treatment option that will fix the errors in patient genetic coding. Recombinant viruses are highly efficient vehicles for in vivo gene delivery. Adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors offer unique advantages, such as tissue tropism, specificity in transduction, eliciting of a relatively low immune responses, no incorporation into the host chromosome, and long-lasting delivered gene expression, making them the most popular viral gene delivery system in clinical trials, with three AAV-based gene therapy drugs already approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or European Medicines Agency (EMA). Despite the success of AAV vectors, their usage in particular scenarios is still limited due to remaining challenges, such as poor transduction efficiency in certain tissues, low organ specificity, pre-existing humoral immunity to AAV capsids, and vector dose-dependent toxicity in patients. In the present review, we address the different approaches to improve AAV vectors for gene therapy with a focus on AAV capsid selection and engineering, strategies to overcome anti-AAV immune response, and vector genome design, ending with a glimpse at vector production methods and the current state of recombinant AAV (rAAV) at the clinical level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amaury Pupo
- R&D Department, Asklepios BioPharmaceutical, Inc. (AskBio), 20 T.W. Alexander, Suite 110 RTP, Durham, NC 27709, USA
| | - Audry Fernández
- R&D Department, Asklepios BioPharmaceutical, Inc. (AskBio), 20 T.W. Alexander, Suite 110 RTP, Durham, NC 27709, USA
| | - Siew Hui Low
- R&D Department, Asklepios BioPharmaceutical, Inc. (AskBio), 20 T.W. Alexander, Suite 110 RTP, Durham, NC 27709, USA
| | - Achille François
- Viralgen. Parque Tecnológico de Guipuzkoa, Edificio Kuatro, Paseo Mikeletegui, 83, 20009 San Sebastián, Spain
| | - Lester Suárez-Amarán
- R&D Department, Asklepios BioPharmaceutical, Inc. (AskBio), 20 T.W. Alexander, Suite 110 RTP, Durham, NC 27709, USA
| | - Richard Jude Samulski
- R&D Department, Asklepios BioPharmaceutical, Inc. (AskBio), 20 T.W. Alexander, Suite 110 RTP, Durham, NC 27709, USA,Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA,Corresponding author: Richard Jude Samulski, R&D Department, Asklepios BioPharmaceutical, Inc. (AskBio), 20 T.W. Alexander, Suite 110 RTP, NC 27709, USA.
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Cationic RGD peptidomimetic nanoconjugates as effective tumor targeting gene delivery vectors with antimicrobial potential. Bioorg Chem 2022; 129:106197. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2022.106197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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