1
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Francia V, Zhang Y, Cheng MHY, Schiffelers RM, Witzigmann D, Cullis PR. A magnetic separation method for isolating and characterizing the biomolecular corona of lipid nanoparticles. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2307803120. [PMID: 38437542 PMCID: PMC10945860 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2307803120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulations are a proven method for the delivery of nucleic acids for gene therapy as exemplified by the worldwide rollout of LNP-based RNAi therapeutics and mRNA vaccines. However, targeting specific tissues or cells is still a major challenge. After LNP administration, LNPs interact with biological fluids (i.e., blood), components of which adsorb onto the LNP surface forming a layer of biomolecules termed the "biomolecular corona (BMC)" which affects LNP stability, biodistribution, and tissue tropism. The mechanisms by which the BMC influences tissue- and cell-specific targeting remains largely unknown, due to the technical challenges in isolating LNPs and their corona from complex biological media. In this study, we present a new technique that utilizes magnetic LNPs to isolate LNP-corona complexes from unbound proteins present in human serum. First, we developed a magnetic LNP formulation, containing >40 superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs)/LNP, the resulting LNPs containing iron oxide nanoparticles (IOLNPs) displayed a similar particle size and morphology as LNPs loaded with nucleic acids. We further demonstrated the isolation of the IOLNPs and their corresponding BMC from unbound proteins using a magnetic separation (MS) system. The BMC profile of LNP from the MS system was compared to size exclusion column chromatography and further analyzed via mass spectrometry, revealing differences in protein abundances. This new approach enabled a mild and versatile isolation of LNPs and its corona, while maintaining its structural integrity. The identification of the BMC associated with an intact LNP provides further insight into LNP interactions with biological fluids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Francia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BCV6T 1Z3, Canada
- Department of Clinical Chemistry and Haematology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht3584, Netherlands
| | - Yao Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BCV6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Miffy Hok Yan Cheng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BCV6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Raymond M. Schiffelers
- Department of Clinical Chemistry and Haematology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht3584, Netherlands
| | - Dominik Witzigmann
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BCV6T 1Z3, Canada
- NanoVation Therapeutics, Vancouver, BCV6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Pieter R. Cullis
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BCV6T 1Z3, Canada
- NanoVation Therapeutics, Vancouver, BCV6T 1Z3, Canada
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2
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Bolsoni J, Liu D, Mohabatpour F, Ebner R, Sadhnani G, Tafech B, Leung J, Shanta S, An K, Morin T, Chen Y, Arguello A, Choate K, Jan E, Ross CJ, Brambilla D, Witzigmann D, Kulkarni J, Cullis PR, Hedtrich S. Lipid Nanoparticle-Mediated Hit-and-Run Approaches Yield Efficient and Safe In Situ Gene Editing in Human Skin. ACS Nano 2023; 17:22046-22059. [PMID: 37918441 PMCID: PMC10655174 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c08644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
Despite exciting advances in gene editing, the efficient delivery of genetic tools to extrahepatic tissues remains challenging. This holds particularly true for the skin, which poses a highly restrictive delivery barrier. In this study, we ran a head-to-head comparison between Cas9 mRNA or ribonucleoprotein (RNP)-loaded lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) to deliver gene editing tools into epidermal layers of human skin, aiming for in situ gene editing. We observed distinct LNP composition and cell-specific effects such as an extended presence of RNP in slow-cycling epithelial cells for up to 72 h. While obtaining similar gene editing rates using Cas9 RNP and mRNA with MC3-based LNPs (10-16%), mRNA-loaded LNPs proved to be more cytotoxic. Interestingly, ionizable lipids with a pKa ∼ 7.1 yielded superior gene editing rates (55%-72%) in two-dimensional (2D) epithelial cells while no single guide RNA-dependent off-target effects were detectable. Unexpectedly, these high 2D editing efficacies did not translate to actual skin tissue where overall gene editing rates between 5%-12% were achieved after a single application and irrespective of the LNP composition. Finally, we successfully base-corrected a disease-causing mutation with an efficacy of ∼5% in autosomal recessive congenital ichthyosis patient cells, showcasing the potential of this strategy for the treatment of monogenic skin diseases. Taken together, this study demonstrates the feasibility of an in situ correction of disease-causing mutations in the skin that could provide effective treatment and potentially even a cure for rare, monogenic, and common skin diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Bolsoni
- Faculty
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of
British Columbia, 2405 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver V6T 1Z3, BC, Canada
| | - Danny Liu
- Faculty
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of
British Columbia, 2405 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver V6T 1Z3, BC, Canada
| | - Fatemeh Mohabatpour
- Faculty
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of
British Columbia, 2405 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver V6T 1Z3, BC, Canada
| | - Ronja Ebner
- Faculty
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of
British Columbia, 2405 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver V6T 1Z3, BC, Canada
| | - Gaurav Sadhnani
- Berlin
Institute of Health @ Charité Universitätsmedizin, Berlin 10117, Germany
| | - Belal Tafech
- Faculty
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of
British Columbia, 2405 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver V6T 1Z3, BC, Canada
| | - Jerry Leung
- Department
of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University
of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver V6T 1Z3, BC, Canada
| | - Selina Shanta
- Faculty
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of
British Columbia, 2405 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver V6T 1Z3, BC, Canada
| | - Kevin An
- NanoVation
Therapeutics, 2405 Wesbrook
Mall, Vancouver V6T 1Z3, BC, Canada
| | - Tessa Morin
- Faculty
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of
British Columbia, 2405 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver V6T 1Z3, BC, Canada
| | - Yihang Chen
- Department
of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University
of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver V6T 1Z3, BC, Canada
| | - Alfonso Arguello
- University
of Montréal, Faculty of Pharmacy, Montréal H3T 1J4, Quebec, Canada
| | - Keith Choate
- Departments
of Dermatology, Genetics, and Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven 06510, Connecticut, United States
| | - Eric Jan
- Department
of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University
of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver V6T 1Z3, BC, Canada
| | - Colin J.D. Ross
- Faculty
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of
British Columbia, 2405 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver V6T 1Z3, BC, Canada
| | - Davide Brambilla
- University
of Montréal, Faculty of Pharmacy, Montréal H3T 1J4, Quebec, Canada
| | - Dominik Witzigmann
- NanoVation
Therapeutics, 2405 Wesbrook
Mall, Vancouver V6T 1Z3, BC, Canada
| | - Jayesh Kulkarni
- NanoVation
Therapeutics, 2405 Wesbrook
Mall, Vancouver V6T 1Z3, BC, Canada
| | - Pieter R. Cullis
- Department
of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University
of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver V6T 1Z3, BC, Canada
| | - Sarah Hedtrich
- Faculty
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of
British Columbia, 2405 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver V6T 1Z3, BC, Canada
- Berlin
Institute of Health @ Charité Universitätsmedizin, Berlin 10117, Germany
- Department
of Infectious Diseases and Respiratory Medicine, Charité -
Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate
member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität, Berlin 10117, Germany
- Max-Delbrück
Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin 13125, Germany
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3
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Chander N, Basha G, Yan Cheng MH, Witzigmann D, Cullis PR. Lipid nanoparticle mRNA systems containing high levels of sphingomyelin engender higher protein expression in hepatic and extra-hepatic tissues. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2023; 30:235-245. [PMID: 37564393 PMCID: PMC10410000 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2023.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) for delivery of mRNA usually contain ionizable lipid/helper lipid/cholesterol/PEG-lipid in molar ratios of 50:10:38.5:1.5, respectively. These LNPs are rapidly cleared from the circulation following intravenous (i.v.) administration, limiting uptake into other tissues. Here, we investigate the properties of LNP mRNA systems prepared with high levels of "helper" lipids such as 1,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphorylcholine (DSPC) or N-(hexadecanoyl)-sphing-4-enine-1-phosphocholine (egg sphingomyelin [ESM]). We show that LNP mRNAs containing 40 mol % DSPC or ESM have a unique morphology with a small interior "solid" core situated in an aqueous compartment that is bounded by a lipid bilayer. The encapsulated mRNA exhibits enhanced stability in the presence of serum. LNP mRNA systems containing 40 mol % DSPC or ESM exhibit significantly improved transfection properties in vitro compared with systems containing 10 mol % DSPC or ESM. When injected i.v., LNP mRNAs containing 40 mol % ESM exhibit extended circulation lifetimes compared with LNP mRNA systems containing 10 mol % DSPC, resulting in improved accumulation in extrahepatic tissues. Systems containing 40 mol % ESM result in significantly improved gene expression in spleen and bone marrow as well as liver post i.v. injection compared with 10 mol % DSPC LNP mRNAs. We conclude that LNP mRNAs containing high levels of helper lipid provide a new approach for transfecting hepatic and extrahepatic tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nisha Chander
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Genc Basha
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Miffy Hok Yan Cheng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Dominik Witzigmann
- NanoVation Therapeutics, 2405 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Pieter R. Cullis
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
- NanoVation Therapeutics, 2405 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
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4
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Cheng MHY, Leung J, Zhang Y, Strong C, Basha G, Momeni A, Chen Y, Jan E, Abdolahzadeh A, Wang X, Kulkarni JA, Witzigmann D, Cullis PR. Induction of Bleb Structures in Lipid Nanoparticle Formulations of mRNA Leads to Improved Transfection Potency. Adv Mater 2023:e2303370. [PMID: 37172950 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202303370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
The transfection potency of lipid nanoparticle (LNP) mRNA systems is critically dependent on the ionizable cationic lipid component. LNP mRNA systems composed of optimized ionizable lipids often display distinctive mRNA rich "bleb" structures. Here we show that such structures can also be induced for LNP containing nominally less active ionizable lipids by formulating in the presence of high concentrations of pH 4 buffers such as sodium citrate, leading to improved transfection potencies both in vitro and in vivo. Induction of bleb structure and improved potency is dependent on the type of pH 4 buffer employed, with LNP mRNA systems prepared using 300 mM sodium citrate buffer displaying maximum transfection. The improved transfection potencies of LNP mRNA systems displaying bleb structure can be attributed, at least in part, to enhanced integrity of the encapsulated mRNA. It is concluded that enhanced transfection can be achieved by optimizing formulation parameters to improve mRNA stability and that optimization of ionizable lipids to achieve enhanced potency may well lead to improvements in mRNA integrity through formation of bleb structure rather than enhanced intracellular delivery. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miffy Hok Yan Cheng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Jerry Leung
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6T 1Z4, Canada
- Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Yao Zhang
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Colton Strong
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6T 1Z4, Canada
- Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Genc Basha
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Arash Momeni
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Yihang Chen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Eric Jan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Amir Abdolahzadeh
- NanoVation Therapeutics Inc., 2405 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Xinying Wang
- NanoVation Therapeutics Inc., 2405 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Jayesh A Kulkarni
- NanoVation Therapeutics Inc., 2405 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Dominik Witzigmann
- NanoVation Therapeutics Inc., 2405 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Pieter R Cullis
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6T 1Z4, Canada
- NanoVation Therapeutics Inc., 2405 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6T 1Z3, Canada
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5
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Zimmermann CM, Baldassi D, Chan K, Adams NBP, Neumann A, Porras-Gonzalez DL, Wei X, Kneidinger N, Stoleriu MG, Burgstaller G, Witzigmann D, Luciani P, Merkel OM. Spray drying siRNA-lipid nanoparticles for dry powder pulmonary delivery. J Control Release 2022; 351:137-150. [PMID: 36126785 PMCID: PMC7613708 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2022.09.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
While all the siRNA drugs on the market target the liver, the lungs offer a variety of currently undruggable targets which could potentially be treated with RNA therapeutics. Hence, local, pulmonary delivery of RNA nanoparticles could finally enable delivery beyond the liver. The administration of RNA drugs via dry powder inhalers offers many advantages related to physical, chemical and microbial stability of RNA and nanosuspensions. The present study was therefore designed to test the feasibility of engineering spray dried lipid nanoparticle (LNP) powders. Spray drying was performed using 5% lactose solution (m/V), and the targets were set to obtain nanoparticle sizes after redispersion of spray-dried powders around 150 nm, a residual moisture level below 5%, and RNA loss below 15% at maintained RNA bioactivity. The LNPs consisted of an ionizable cationic lipid which is a sulfur-containing analog of DLin-MC3-DMA, a helper lipid, cholesterol, and PEG-DMG encapsulating siRNA. Prior to the spray drying, the latter process was simulated with a novel dual emission fluorescence spectroscopy method to preselect the highest possible drying temperature and excipient solution maintaining LNP integrity and stability. Through characterization of physicochemical and aerodynamic properties of the spray dried powders, administration criteria for delivery to the lower respiratory tract were fulfilled. Spray dried LNPs penetrated the lung mucus layer and maintained bioactivity for >90% protein downregulation with a confirmed safety profile in a lung adenocarcinoma cell line. Additionally, the spray dried LNPs successfully achieved up to 50% gene silencing of the house keeping gene GAPDH in ex vivo human precision-cut lung slices at without increasing cytokine levels. This study verifies the successful spray drying procedure of LNP-siRNA systems maintaining their integrity and mediating strong gene silencing efficiency on mRNA and protein levels both in vitro and ex vivo. The successful spray drying procedure of LNP-siRNA formulations in 5% lactose solution creates a novel siRNA-based therapy option to target respiratory diseases such as lung cancer, asthma, COPD, cystic fibrosis and viral infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christoph M Zimmermann
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians Universität München, 81377 Munich, Germany; Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Pharmacy, University Bern, Freiestrasse 3, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Domizia Baldassi
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians Universität München, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Karen Chan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada; NanoMedicines Innovation Network (NMIN), 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Nathan B P Adams
- Nanotemper Technologies GmbH, Flößergasse 4, 81369 Munich, Germany
| | - Alina Neumann
- Nanotemper Technologies GmbH, Flößergasse 4, 81369 Munich, Germany
| | - Diana Leidy Porras-Gonzalez
- Institute of Lung Health and Immunity (LHI) and Comprehensive Pneumology Center (CPC) with the CPC-M bioArchive, Helmholtz Munich, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Munich, Germany
| | - Xin Wei
- Institute of Lung Health and Immunity (LHI) and Comprehensive Pneumology Center (CPC) with the CPC-M bioArchive, Helmholtz Munich, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Munich, Germany
| | - Nikolaus Kneidinger
- Department of Medicine V, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Munich, Germany
| | - Mircea Gabriel Stoleriu
- Center for Thoracic Surgery Munich, Ludwig-Maximilians-University of Munich (LMU) and Asklepios Pulmonary Hospital, Marchioninistraße 15, 81377 Munich and Robert-Koch-Allee 2, 82131 Gauting, Germany
| | - Gerald Burgstaller
- Institute of Lung Health and Immunity (LHI) and Comprehensive Pneumology Center (CPC) with the CPC-M bioArchive, Helmholtz Munich, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Munich, Germany
| | - Dominik Witzigmann
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada; NanoMedicines Innovation Network (NMIN), 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada; NanoVation Therapeutics Inc., 2405 Wesbrook Mall 4th Floor, Vancouver V6T 1Z3, Canada.
| | - Paola Luciani
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Pharmacy, University Bern, Freiestrasse 3, Bern, Switzerland.
| | - Olivia M Merkel
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians Universität München, 81377 Munich, Germany; Institute of Lung Health and Immunity (LHI) and Comprehensive Pneumology Center (CPC) with the CPC-M bioArchive, Helmholtz Munich, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Munich, Germany.
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6
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Basha G, Cottle AG, Pretheeban T, Chan KY, Witzigmann D, Young RN, Rossi FM, Cullis PR. Lipid nanoparticle-mediated silencing of osteogenic suppressor GNAS leads to osteogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells in vivo. Mol Ther 2022; 30:3034-3051. [PMID: 35733339 PMCID: PMC9481989 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2022.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Approved drugs for the treatment of osteoporosis can prevent further bone loss but do not stimulate bone formation. Approaches that improve bone density in metabolic diseases are needed. Therapies that take advantage of the ability of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) to differentiate into various osteogenic lineages to treat bone disorders are of particular interest. Here we examine the ability of small interfering RNA (siRNA) to enhance osteoblast differentiation and bone formation by silencing the negative suppressor gene GNAS in bone MSCs. Using clinically validated lipid nanoparticle (LNP) siRNA delivery systems, we show that silencing the suppressor gene GNAS in vitro in MSCs leads to molecular and phenotypic changes similar to those seen in osteoblasts. Further, we demonstrate that these LNP-siRNAs can transfect a large proportion of mice MSCs in the compact bone following intravenous injection. Transfection of MSCs in various animal models led to silencing of GNAS and enhanced differentiation of MSCs into osteoblasts. These data demonstrate the potential for LNP delivery of siRNA to enhance the differentiation of MSCs into osteoblasts, and suggests that they are a promising approach for the treatment of osteoporosis and other bone diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Genc Basha
- NanoMedicines Research Group, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Life Sciences Institute, University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada.
| | - Andrew G Cottle
- NanoMedicines Research Group, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Life Sciences Institute, University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Thavaneetharajah Pretheeban
- School of Biomedical Engineering and Department of Medical Genetics, Biomedical Research Centre University of British Columbia, 2222 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Karen Yt Chan
- NanoMedicines Research Group, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Life Sciences Institute, University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Dominik Witzigmann
- NanoMedicines Research Group, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Life Sciences Institute, University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada; NanoMedicines Innovation Network (NMIN), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Robert N Young
- Department of Chemistry, Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC V5A 1S6, Canada
| | - Fabio Mv Rossi
- School of Biomedical Engineering and Department of Medical Genetics, Biomedical Research Centre University of British Columbia, 2222 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Pieter R Cullis
- NanoMedicines Research Group, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Life Sciences Institute, University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada; NanoMedicines Innovation Network (NMIN), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
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7
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Al Fayez N, Rouhollahi E, Ong CY, Wu J, Nguyen A, Böttger R, Cullis PR, Witzigmann D, Li SD. Hepatocyte-targeted delivery of imiquimod reduces hepatitis B virus surface antigen. J Control Release 2022; 350:630-641. [PMID: 36058352 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2022.08.058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Revised: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) can rapidly replicate in the hepatocytes after transmission, leading to chronic hepatitis, liver cirrhosis and eventually hepatocellular carcinoma. Interferon-α (IFN-α) is included in the standard treatment for chronic hepatitis B (CHB). However, this therapy causes serious side effects. Delivering IFN-α selectively to the liver may enhance its efficacy and safety. Imiquimod (IMQ), a Toll-Like Receptor (TLR) 7 agonist, stimulates the release of IFN-α that exhibits potent antiviral activity. However, the poor solubility and tissue selectivity of IMQ limits its clinical use. Here, we demonstrated the use of lipid-based nanoparticles (LNPs) to deliver IMQ and increase the production of IFN-α in the liver. We encapsulated IMQ in two liver-targeted LNP formulations: phospholipid-free small unilamellar vesicles (PFSUVs) and DSPG-liposomes targeting the hepatocytes and the Kupffer cells, respectively. In vitro drug release/retention, in vivo pharmacokinetics, intrahepatic distribution, IFN-α production, and suppression of serum HBV surface antigen (HBsAg) were evaluated and compared for these two formulations. PFSUVs provided >95% encapsulation efficiency for IMQ at a drug-to-lipid ratio (D/L) of 1/20 (w/w) and displayed stable drug retention in the presence of serum. DSPG-IMQ showed 79% encapsulation of IMQ at 1/20 (D/L) and exhibited ∼30% burst release when incubated with serum. Within the liver, PFSUVs showed high selectivity for the hepatocytes while DSPG-liposomes targeted the Kupffer cells. Finally, in an experimental HBV mouse model, PFSUVs significantly reduced serum levels of HBsAg by 12-, 6.3- and 2.2-fold compared to the control, IFN-α, and DSPG-IMQ groups, respectively. The results suggest that the hepatocyte-targeted PFSUVs loaded with IMQ exhibit significant potential for enhancing therapy of CHB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nojoud Al Fayez
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada; King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Elham Rouhollahi
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Chun Yat Ong
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Jiamin Wu
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Anne Nguyen
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Roland Böttger
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Pieter R Cullis
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada; NanoMedicines Innovation Network (NMIN), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Dominik Witzigmann
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada; NanoMedicines Innovation Network (NMIN), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Shyh-Dar Li
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada; NanoMedicines Innovation Network (NMIN), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada.
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8
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Al Fayez N, Böttger R, Ghosh S, Nakajima Y, Chao PH, Rouhollahi E, Nguyen A, Cullis PR, Witzigmann D, Li SD. Development of a child-friendly oral drug formulation using liposomal multilamellar vesicle technology. Int J Pharm 2022; 625:122107. [PMID: 35964828 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2022.122107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2022] [Revised: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Many medicines are only available in solid dosage forms suitable for adults, and extemporaneous compounding is required to prepare formulations for children. However, this common practice often results in inaccurate dosing and unpleasant taste, reducing the medication adherence. Here, we report the development of a new method to prepare and compound child-friendly oral formulations based on a liposomal multilamellar vesicle (MLV) platform. MLVs composed of a phospholipid (DSPC) and cholesterol (55/45, molar ratio) were prepared using the standard thin film hydration method with 300 mM citric acid (pH 2), followed by an addition of aqueous sodium carbonate to adjust the exterior pH to 8-10 for creating a transmembrane pH gradient. Weak-base drugs, such as chloroquine (CQ) and hydroxychloroquine (HCQ), could be actively and completely loaded into the MLVs at a drug-to-lipid ratio of 15-20 wt%. This technique formulated weak-base drugs from the powder or tablet form into a liquid preparation, and the complete drug encapsulation would prevent contact between the drug molecules and the taste buds. The gradient MLV formulation could be preserved by lyophilization and stored at room temperature for at least 8 weeks. Upon reconstitution with water, the MLV formulation could completely encapsulate CQ at 20 wt%, which was comparable to the freshly prepared MLVs. The CQ-loaded MLV formulation could be stored at 4 °C for 2 weeks without drug leakage. In vitro release studies indicated that MLV could retain CQ in the simulated saliva, but released up to 50% and 30% of the drug in the simulated gastric and intestinal fluids, respectively. The orally delivered MLV-CQ formulation displayed higher CQ absorption in mice, with a 2-fold increase in the area under the curve (AUC) of the plasma profile compared to CQ solution. Our data suggest that the new MLV method could serve as a platform to prepare child-friendly oral formulation for weak-base drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nojoud Al Fayez
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Roland Böttger
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Sreemoyee Ghosh
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Yushi Nakajima
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Po-Han Chao
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Elham Rouhollahi
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Anne Nguyen
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Pieter R Cullis
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada; NanoMedicines Innovation Network (NMIN), Canada
| | - Dominik Witzigmann
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada; NanoMedicines Innovation Network (NMIN), Canada
| | - Shyh-Dar Li
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada.
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9
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Quick J, Santos ND, Cheng MHY, Chander N, Brimacombe CA, Kulkarni J, van der Meel R, Tam YYC, Witzigmann D, Cullis PR. Lipid nanoparticles to silence androgen receptor variants for prostate cancer therapy. J Control Release 2022; 349:174-183. [PMID: 35780952 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2022.06.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Advanced-stage prostate cancer remains an incurable disease with poor patient prognosis. There is an unmet clinical need to target androgen receptor (AR) splice variants, which are key drivers of the disease. Some AR splice variants are insensitive to conventional hormonal or androgen deprivation therapy due to loss of the androgen ligand binding domain at the C-terminus and are constitutively active. Here we explore the use of RNA interference (RNAi) to target a universally conserved region of all AR splice variants for cleavage and degradation, thereby eliminating protein level resistance mechanisms. To this end, we tested five siRNA sequences designed against exon 1 of the AR mRNA and identified several that induced potent knockdown of full-length and truncated variant ARs in the 22Rv1 human prostate cancer cell line. We then demonstrated that 2'O methyl modification of the top candidate siRNA (siARvm) enhanced AR and AR-V7 mRNA silencing potency in both 22Rv1 and LNCaP cells, which represent two different prostate cancer models. For downstream in vivo delivery, we formulated siARvm-LNPs and functionally validated these in vitro by demonstrating knockdown of AR and AR-V7 mRNA in prostate cancer cells and loss of AR-mediated transcriptional activation of the PSA gene in both cell lines following treatment. We also observed that siARvm-LNP induced cell viability inhibition was more potent compared to LNP containing siRNA targeting full-length AR mRNA (siARfl-LNP) in 22Rv1 cells as their proliferation is more dependent on AR splice variants than LNCaP and PC3 cells. The in vivo biodistribution of siARvm-LNPs was determined in 22Rv1 tumor-bearing mice by incorporating 14C-radiolabelled DSPC in LNP formulation, and we observed a 4.4% ID/g tumor accumulation following intravenous administration. Finally, treatment of 22Rv1 tumor bearing mice with siARvm-LNP resulted in significant tumor growth inhibition and survival benefit compared to siARfl-LNP or the siLUC-LNP control. To best of our knowledge, this is the first report demonstrating therapeutic effects of LNP-siRNA targeting AR splice variants in prostate cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joslyn Quick
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Nancy Dos Santos
- BC Cancer Research Institute, 675 West 10th Avenue, Vancouver, British Columbia V5Z 1L3, Canada
| | - Miffy H Y Cheng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Nisha Chander
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Cedric A Brimacombe
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Jayesh Kulkarni
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Roy van der Meel
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Yuen Yi C Tam
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Dominik Witzigmann
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Pieter R Cullis
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada.
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10
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Hald Albertsen C, Kulkarni JA, Witzigmann D, Lind M, Petersson K, Simonsen JB. The role of lipid components in lipid nanoparticles for vaccines and gene therapy. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2022; 188:114416. [PMID: 35787388 PMCID: PMC9250827 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2022.114416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 151] [Impact Index Per Article: 75.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Revised: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) play an important role in mRNA vaccines against COVID-19. In addition, many preclinical and clinical studies, including the siRNA-LNP product, Onpattro®, highlight that LNPs unlock the potential of nucleic acid-based therapies and vaccines. To understand what is key to the success of LNPs, we need to understand the role of the building blocks that constitute them. In this Review, we discuss what each lipid component adds to the LNP delivery platform in terms of size, structure, stability, apparent pKa, nucleic acid encapsulation efficiency, cellular uptake, and endosomal escape. To explore this, we present findings from the liposome field as well as from landmark and recent articles in the LNP literature. We also discuss challenges and strategies related to in vitro/in vivo studies of LNPs based on fluorescence readouts, immunogenicity/reactogenicity, and LNP delivery beyond the liver. How these fundamental challenges are pursued, including what lipid components are added and combined, will likely determine the scope of LNP-based gene therapies and vaccines for treating various diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilla Hald Albertsen
- Explorative Formulation & Technologies, CMC Design and Development, LEO Pharma A/S, Industriparken 55, 2750 Ballerup, Denmark
| | - Jayesh A Kulkarni
- NanoVation Therapeutics Inc., 2405 Wesbrook Mall, 4th Floor, Vancouver BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Dominik Witzigmann
- NanoVation Therapeutics Inc., 2405 Wesbrook Mall, 4th Floor, Vancouver BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Marianne Lind
- Explorative Formulation & Technologies, CMC Design and Development, LEO Pharma A/S, Industriparken 55, 2750 Ballerup, Denmark
| | - Karsten Petersson
- Explorative Formulation & Technologies, CMC Design and Development, LEO Pharma A/S, Industriparken 55, 2750 Ballerup, Denmark
| | - Jens B Simonsen
- Explorative Formulation & Technologies, CMC Design and Development, LEO Pharma A/S, Industriparken 55, 2750 Ballerup, Denmark.
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11
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Tam A, Kulkarni J, An K, Li L, Dorscheid DR, Singhera GK, Bernatchez P, Reid G, Chan K, Witzigmann D, Cullis PR, Sin DD, Lim CJ. Lipid nanoparticle formulations for optimal RNA-based topical delivery to murine airways. Eur J Pharm Sci 2022; 176:106234. [PMID: 35688311 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2022.106234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Revised: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Lipid nanoparticles (LNP) have been successfully used as a platform technology for delivering nucleic acids to the liver. To broaden the application of LNPs in targeting non-hepatic tissues, we developed LNP-based RNA therapies (siRNA or mRNA) for the respiratory tract. Such optimized LNP systems could offer an early treatment strategy for viral respiratory tract infections such as COVID-19. METHODS We generated a small library of six LNP formulations with varying helper lipid compositions and characterized their hydrodynamic diameter, size distribution and cargo entrapment properties. Next, we screened these LNP formulations for particle uptake and evaluated their potential for transfecting mRNA encoding green fluorescence protein (GFP) or SARS-CoV2 nucleocapsid-GFP fusion reporter gene in a human airway epithelial cell line in vitro. Following LNP-siGFP delivery, GFP protein knockdown efficiency was assessed by flow cytometry to determine %GFP+ cells and median fluorescence intensity (MFI) for GFP. Finally, lead LNP candidates were validated in Friend leukemia virus B (FVB) male mice via intranasal delivery of an mRNA encoding luciferase, using in vivo bioluminescence imaging. RESULTS Dynamic light scattering revealed that all LNP formulations contained particles with an average diameter of <100 nm and a polydispersity index of <0.2. Human airway epithelial cell lines in culture internalized LNPs with differential GFP transfection efficiencies (73-97%). The lead formulation LNP6 entrapping GFP or Nuc-GFP mRNA demonstrated the highest transfection efficiency (97%). Administration of LNP-GFP siRNA resulted in a significant reduction of GFP protein expression. For in vivo studies, intranasal delivery of LNPs containing helper lipids (DSPC, DOPC, ESM or DOPS) with luciferase mRNA showed significant increase in luminescence expression in nasal cavity and lungs by at least 10 times above baseline control. CONCLUSION LNP formulations enable the delivery of RNA payloads into human airway epithelial cells, and in the murine respiratory system; they can be delivered to nasal mucosa and lower respiratory tract via intranasal delivery. The composition of helper lipids in LNPs crucially modulates transfection efficiencies in airway epithelia, highlighting their importance in effective delivery of therapeutic products for airways diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Tam
- NanoVation Therapeutics Inc. Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; Michael Cuccione Childhood Cancer Research Program, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; University of British Columbia (UBC) Center for Heart Lung Innovation, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - J Kulkarni
- NanoVation Therapeutics Inc. Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; NanoMedicines Innovation Network, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; University of British Columbia (UBC), Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - K An
- NanoVation Therapeutics Inc. Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; University of British Columbia (UBC), Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - L Li
- Michael Cuccione Childhood Cancer Research Program, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - D R Dorscheid
- University of British Columbia (UBC) Center for Heart Lung Innovation, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - G K Singhera
- University of British Columbia (UBC) Center for Heart Lung Innovation, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; Department of Medicine (Division of Respirology), UBC, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - P Bernatchez
- University of British Columbia (UBC) Center for Heart Lung Innovation, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; Department of Medicine (Division of Respirology), UBC, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology & Therapeutics, University of British Columbia, 217-2176 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Gsd Reid
- Michael Cuccione Childhood Cancer Research Program, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Kyt Chan
- NanoMedicines Innovation Network, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; University of British Columbia (UBC), Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - D Witzigmann
- NanoVation Therapeutics Inc. Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; NanoMedicines Innovation Network, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; University of British Columbia (UBC), Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - P R Cullis
- NanoVation Therapeutics Inc. Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; NanoMedicines Innovation Network, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; University of British Columbia (UBC), Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - D D Sin
- University of British Columbia (UBC) Center for Heart Lung Innovation, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - C J Lim
- Michael Cuccione Childhood Cancer Research Program, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
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12
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Pattipeiluhu R, Arias-Alpizar G, Basha G, Chan KYT, Bussmann J, Sharp TH, Moradi MA, Sommerdijk N, Harris EN, Cullis PR, Kros A, Witzigmann D, Campbell F. Anionic Lipid Nanoparticles Preferentially Deliver mRNA to the Hepatic Reticuloendothelial System. Adv Mater 2022; 34:e2201095. [PMID: 35218106 PMCID: PMC9461706 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202201095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) are the leading nonviral technologies for the delivery of exogenous RNA to target cells in vivo. As systemic delivery platforms, these technologies are exemplified by Onpattro, an approved LNP-based RNA interference therapy, administered intravenously and targeted to parenchymal liver cells. The discovery of systemically administered LNP technologies capable of preferential RNA delivery beyond hepatocytes has, however, proven more challenging. Here, preceded by comprehensive mechanistic understanding of in vivo nanoparticle biodistribution and bodily clearance, an LNP-based messenger RNA (mRNA) delivery platform is rationally designed to preferentially target the hepatic reticuloendothelial system (RES). Evaluated in embryonic zebrafish, validated in mice, and directly compared to LNP-mRNA systems based on the lipid composition of Onpattro, RES-targeted LNPs significantly enhance mRNA expression both globally within the liver and specifically within hepatic RES cell types. Hepatic RES targeting requires just a single lipid change within the formulation of Onpattro to switch LNP surface charge from neutral to anionic. This technology not only provides new opportunities to treat liver-specific and systemic diseases in which RES cell types play a key role but, more importantly, exemplifies that rational design of advanced RNA therapies must be preceded by a robust understanding of the dominant nano-biointeractions involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roy Pattipeiluhu
- Supramolecular and Biomaterials Chemistry, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, 2333 CC, The Netherlands
- BioNanoPatterning, Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, 2333 RC, The Netherlands
| | - Gabriela Arias-Alpizar
- Supramolecular and Biomaterials Chemistry, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, 2333 CC, The Netherlands
- Division of BioTherapeutics, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden University, Leiden, 2333 CC, The Netherlands
| | - Genc Basha
- NanoMedicines Research Group, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Karen Y T Chan
- NanoMedicines Research Group, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Jeroen Bussmann
- Division of BioTherapeutics, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden University, Leiden, 2333 CC, The Netherlands
| | - Thomas H Sharp
- BioNanoPatterning, Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, 2333 RC, The Netherlands
| | - Mohammad-Amin Moradi
- Materials and Interface Chemistry, Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, 5600 MB, The Netherlands
| | - Nico Sommerdijk
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, 6500 HB, The Netherlands
| | - Edward N Harris
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE, 68588, USA
| | - Pieter R Cullis
- NanoMedicines Research Group, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, V6T 1Z3, Canada
- NanoMedicines Innovation Network (NMIN), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, V6T 1Z3, Canada
- NanoVation Therapeutics Inc., 2405 Wesbrook Mall 4th Floor, Vancouver, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Alexander Kros
- Supramolecular and Biomaterials Chemistry, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, 2333 CC, The Netherlands
| | - Dominik Witzigmann
- NanoMedicines Research Group, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, V6T 1Z3, Canada
- NanoMedicines Innovation Network (NMIN), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, V6T 1Z3, Canada
- NanoVation Therapeutics Inc., 2405 Wesbrook Mall 4th Floor, Vancouver, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Frederick Campbell
- Supramolecular and Biomaterials Chemistry, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, 2333 CC, The Netherlands
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13
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Kamanzi A, Gu Y, Tahvildari R, Friedenberger Z, Zhu X, Berti R, Kurylowicz M, Witzigmann D, Kulkarni JA, Leung J, Andersson J, Dahlin A, Höök F, Sutton M, Cullis PR, Leslie S. Simultaneous, Single-Particle Measurements of Size and Loading Give Insights into the Structure of Drug-Delivery Nanoparticles. ACS Nano 2021; 15:19244-19255. [PMID: 34843205 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.1c04862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Nanoparticles are a promising solution for delivery of a wide range of medicines and vaccines. Optimizing their design depends on being able to resolve, understand, and predict biophysical and therapeutic properties, as a function of design parameters. While existing tools have made great progress, gaps in understanding remain because of the inability to make detailed measurements of multiple correlated properties. Typically, an average measurement is made across a heterogeneous population, obscuring potentially important information. In this work, we develop and apply a method for characterizing nanoparticles with single-particle resolution. We use convex lens-induced confinement (CLiC) microscopy to isolate and quantify the diffusive trajectories and fluorescent intensities of individual nanoparticles trapped in microwells for long times. First, we benchmark detailed measurements of fluorescent polystyrene nanoparticles against prior data to validate our approach. Second, we apply our method to investigate the size and loading properties of lipid nanoparticle (LNP) vehicles containing silencing RNA (siRNA), as a function of lipid formulation, solution pH, and drug-loading. By taking a comprehensive look at the correlation between the intensity and size measurements, we gain insights into LNP structure and how the siRNA is distributed in the LNP. Beyond introducing an analytic for size and loading, this work allows for future studies of dynamics with single-particle resolution, such as LNP fusion and drug-release kinetics. The prime contribution of this work is to better understand the connections between microscopic and macroscopic properties of drug-delivery vehicles, enabling and accelerating their discovery and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert Kamanzi
- Department of Physics, McGill University, 3600 University, Montreal Quebec, Canada H3A2T8
- Department of Physics Astronomy, University of British Columbia, 6224 Agricultural Road, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada V6T 1Z1
- Michael Smith Laboratories and Department of Physics, University of British Columbia, 2329 West Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada V6T 1Z4
| | - Yifei Gu
- Department of Physics, McGill University, 3600 University, Montreal Quebec, Canada H3A2T8
| | - Radin Tahvildari
- Department of Physics, McGill University, 3600 University, Montreal Quebec, Canada H3A2T8
| | - Zachary Friedenberger
- Department of Physics, McGill University, 3600 University, Montreal Quebec, Canada H3A2T8
| | - Xingqi Zhu
- Department of Physics, McGill University, 3600 University, Montreal Quebec, Canada H3A2T8
| | - Romain Berti
- Department of Physics, McGill University, 3600 University, Montreal Quebec, Canada H3A2T8
- Michael Smith Laboratories and Department of Physics, University of British Columbia, 2329 West Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada V6T 1Z4
- ScopeSys Inc., 33 Rue Prince, Montreal, Quebec, Canada H3C 2M7
| | - Marty Kurylowicz
- Department of Physics, McGill University, 3600 University, Montreal Quebec, Canada H3A2T8
- ScopeSys Inc., 33 Rue Prince, Montreal, Quebec, Canada H3C 2M7
| | - Dominik Witzigmann
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada V6T 1Z4
| | - Jayesh A Kulkarni
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada V6T 1Z4
| | - Jerry Leung
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada V6T 1Z4
| | - John Andersson
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Chalmers University of Technology, SE-412 96 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Andreas Dahlin
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Chalmers University of Technology, SE-412 96 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Fredrik Höök
- Department of Physics, Chalmers University of Technology, SE-412 96 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Mark Sutton
- Department of Physics, McGill University, 3600 University, Montreal Quebec, Canada H3A2T8
| | - Pieter R Cullis
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada V6T 1Z4
| | - Sabrina Leslie
- Department of Physics, McGill University, 3600 University, Montreal Quebec, Canada H3A2T8
- Department of Physics Astronomy, University of British Columbia, 6224 Agricultural Road, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada V6T 1Z1
- Michael Smith Laboratories and Department of Physics, University of British Columbia, 2329 West Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada V6T 1Z4
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14
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Al Fayez N, Böttger R, Rouhollahi E, Cullis PR, Witzigmann D, Li SD. Improved Liver Delivery of Primaquine by Phospholipid-Free Small Unilamellar Vesicles with Reduced Hemolytic Toxicity. Mol Pharm 2021; 19:1778-1785. [PMID: 34546758 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.1c00520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Hemolytic toxicity caused by primaquine (PQ) is a high-risk condition that hampers the wide use of PQ to treat liver-stage malaria. This study demonstrated that phospholipid-free small unilamellar vesicles (PFSUVs) composed of Tween80 and cholesterol could encapsulate and deliver PQ to the hepatocytes with reduced exposure to the red blood cells (RBCs). Nonionic surfactant (Tween80) and cholesterol-forming SUVs with a mean diameter of 50 nm were fabricated for delivering PQ. Drug release/retention, drug uptake by RBCs, pharmacokinetics, and liver uptake of PFSUVs-PQ were evaluated in in vitro and in vivo models in comparison to free drugs. Additionally, the stress effect on RBCs induced by free PQ and PFSUVs-PQ was evaluated by examining RBC morphology. PFSUVs provided >95% encapsulation efficiency for PQ at a drug-to-lipid ratio of 1:20 (w/w) and stably retained the drug in the presence of serum. When incubated with RBCs, PQ uptake in the PFSUVs group was reduced by 4- to 8-folds compared to free PQ. As a result, free PQ induced significant RBC morphology changes, while PFSUVs-PQ showed no such adverse effect. Intravenously (i.v.) delivered PFSUVs-PQ produced a comparable plasma profile as free PQ, given i.v. and orally, while the liver uptake was increased by 4.8 and 1.6-folds, respectively, in mice. Within the liver, PFSUVs selectively targeted the hepatocytes, with no significant blood or liver toxicity in mice. PFSUVs effectively targeted PQ to the liver and reduced RBC uptake compared to free PQ, leading to reduced RBC toxicity. PFSUVs exhibited potential in improving the efficacy of PQ for treating liver-stage malaria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nojoud Al Fayez
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Roland Böttger
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Elham Rouhollahi
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Pieter R Cullis
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada.,NanoMedicines Innovation Network (NMIN), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Dominik Witzigmann
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada.,NanoMedicines Innovation Network (NMIN), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Shyh-Dar Li
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada.,NanoMedicines Innovation Network (NMIN), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
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15
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Rothgangl T, Dennis MK, Lin PJC, Oka R, Witzigmann D, Villiger L, Qi W, Hruzova M, Kissling L, Lenggenhager D, Borrelli C, Egli S, Frey N, Bakker N, Walker JA, Kadina AP, Victorov DV, Pacesa M, Kreutzer S, Kontarakis Z, Moor A, Jinek M, Weissman D, Stoffel M, van Boxtel R, Holden K, Pardi N, Thöny B, Häberle J, Tam YK, Semple SC, Schwank G. In vivo adenine base editing of PCSK9 in macaques reduces LDL cholesterol levels. Nat Biotechnol 2021; 39:949-957. [PMID: 34012094 PMCID: PMC8352781 DOI: 10.1038/s41587-021-00933-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 168] [Impact Index Per Article: 56.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Most known pathogenic point mutations in humans are C•G to T•A substitutions, which can be directly repaired by adenine base editors (ABEs). In this study, we investigated the efficacy and safety of ABEs in the livers of mice and cynomolgus macaques for the reduction of blood low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels. Lipid nanoparticle-based delivery of mRNA encoding an ABE and a single-guide RNA targeting PCSK9, a negative regulator of LDL, induced up to 67% editing (on average, 61%) in mice and up to 34% editing (on average, 26%) in macaques. Plasma PCSK9 and LDL levels were stably reduced by 95% and 58% in mice and by 32% and 14% in macaques, respectively. ABE mRNA was cleared rapidly, and no off-target mutations in genomic DNA were found. Re-dosing in macaques did not increase editing, possibly owing to the detected humoral immune response to ABE upon treatment. These findings support further investigation of ABEs to treat patients with monogenic liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanja Rothgangl
- University of Zurich, Institute for Pharmacology and Toxicology, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Rurika Oka
- Oncode Institute, Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Dominik Witzigmann
- University of Zurich, Institute for Pharmacology and Toxicology, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Lukas Villiger
- University of Zurich, Institute for Pharmacology and Toxicology, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Weihong Qi
- Functional Genomics Center Zurich, ETH Zurich/University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Martina Hruzova
- Department of Biology, Institute for Molecular Health Sciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Lucas Kissling
- University of Zurich, Institute for Pharmacology and Toxicology, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Daniela Lenggenhager
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Pathology, University Hospital and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Costanza Borrelli
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Sabina Egli
- University of Zurich, Institute for Pharmacology and Toxicology, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Nina Frey
- Department of Biology, Institute for Molecular Health Sciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Noëlle Bakker
- University of Zurich, Institute for Pharmacology and Toxicology, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | | | | | - Martin Pacesa
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Susanne Kreutzer
- Functional Genomics Center Zurich, ETH Zurich/University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Genome Engineering and Measurement Laboratory, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Zacharias Kontarakis
- Functional Genomics Center Zurich, ETH Zurich/University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Genome Engineering and Measurement Laboratory, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Andreas Moor
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Martin Jinek
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Drew Weissman
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Markus Stoffel
- Department of Biology, Institute for Molecular Health Sciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ruben van Boxtel
- Oncode Institute, Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | | | - Norbert Pardi
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Beat Thöny
- Division of Metabolism and Children's Research Centre, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Zurich Center for Integrative Human Physiology, Zurich, Switzerland
- Neuroscience Center Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Johannes Häberle
- Division of Metabolism and Children's Research Centre, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Zurich Center for Integrative Human Physiology, Zurich, Switzerland
- Institute of Molecular Life Sciences, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ying K Tam
- Acuitas Therapeutics Inc., Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | | | - Gerald Schwank
- University of Zurich, Institute for Pharmacology and Toxicology, Zurich, Switzerland.
- Department of Biology, Institute for Molecular Health Sciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
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16
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Kulkarni JA, Witzigmann D, Thomson SB, Chen S, Leavitt BR, Cullis PR, van der Meel R. Author Correction: The current landscape of nucleic acid therapeutics. Nat Nanotechnol 2021; 16:841. [PMID: 34194013 DOI: 10.1038/s41565-021-00937-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Jayesh A Kulkarni
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics, Department of Medical Genetics, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- NanoMedicines Innovation Network, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- NanoVation Therapeutics, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Dominik Witzigmann
- NanoMedicines Innovation Network, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- NanoVation Therapeutics, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Sarah B Thomson
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics, Department of Medical Genetics, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Sam Chen
- Integrated Nanotherapeutics, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Blair R Leavitt
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics, Department of Medical Genetics, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Pieter R Cullis
- NanoMedicines Innovation Network, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Roy van der Meel
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, The Netherlands.
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17
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Tam A, Leclair P, Li LV, Yang CX, Li X, Witzigmann D, Kulkarni JA, Hackett TL, Dorscheid DR, Singhera GK, Hogg JC, Cullis PR, Sin DD, Lim CJ. FAM13A as potential therapeutic target in modulating TGF-β-induced airway tissue remodeling in COPD. Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol 2021; 321:L377-L391. [PMID: 34105356 DOI: 10.1152/ajplung.00477.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Genome-wide association studies have shown that a gene variant in the Family with sequence similarity 13, member A (FAM13A) is strongly associated with reduced lung function and the appearance of respiratory symptoms in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). A key player in smoking-induced tissue injury and airway remodeling is the transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1). To determine the role of FAM13A in TGF-β1 signaling, FAM13A-/- airway epithelial cells were generated using CRISPR-Cas9, whereas overexpression of FAM13A was achieved using lipid nanoparticles. Wild-type (WT) and FAM13A-/- cells were treated with TGF-β1, followed by gene and/or protein expression analyses. FAM13A-/- cells augmented TGF-β1-induced increase in collagen type 1 (COL1A1), matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2), expression compared with WT cells. This effect was mediated by an increase in β-catenin (CTNNB1) expression in FAM13A-/- cells compared with WT cells after TGF-β1 treatment. FAM13A overexpression was partially protective from TGF-β1-induced COL1A1 expression. Finally, we showed that airway epithelial-specific FAM13A protein expression is significantly increased in patients with severe COPD compared with control nonsmokers, and negatively correlated with lung function. In contrast, β-catenin (CTNNB1), which has previously been linked to be regulated by FAM13A, is decreased in the airway epithelium of smokers with COPD compared with non-COPD subjects. Together, our data showed that FAM13A may be protective from TGF-β1-induced fibrotic response in the airway epithelium via sequestering CTNNB1 from its regulation on downstream targets. Therapeutic increase in FAM13A expression in the airway epithelium of smokers at risk for COPD, and those with mild COPD, may reduce the extent of airway tissue remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Tam
- Department of Pediatrics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Center for Heart Lung Innovation, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Pascal Leclair
- Department of Pediatrics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Ling Vicky Li
- Department of Pathology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Chen X Yang
- Center for Heart Lung Innovation, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Xuan Li
- Center for Heart Lung Innovation, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Dominik Witzigmann
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,NanoMedicines Innovation Network, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Jayesh A Kulkarni
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,NanoMedicines Innovation Network, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Tillie-Louise Hackett
- Center for Heart Lung Innovation, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Delbert R Dorscheid
- Center for Heart Lung Innovation, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Gurpreet K Singhera
- Center for Heart Lung Innovation, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - James C Hogg
- Center for Heart Lung Innovation, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Pieter R Cullis
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,NanoMedicines Innovation Network, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Don D Sin
- Center for Heart Lung Innovation, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Chinten James Lim
- Department of Pediatrics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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18
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Kulkarni JA, Witzigmann D, Thomson SB, Chen S, Leavitt BR, Cullis PR, van der Meel R. The current landscape of nucleic acid therapeutics. Nat Nanotechnol 2021; 16:630-643. [PMID: 34059811 DOI: 10.1038/s41565-021-00898-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 465] [Impact Index Per Article: 155.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
The increasing number of approved nucleic acid therapeutics demonstrates the potential to treat diseases by targeting their genetic blueprints in vivo. Conventional treatments generally induce therapeutic effects that are transient because they target proteins rather than underlying causes. In contrast, nucleic acid therapeutics can achieve long-lasting or even curative effects via gene inhibition, addition, replacement or editing. Their clinical translation, however, depends on delivery technologies that improve stability, facilitate internalization and increase target affinity. Here, we review four platform technologies that have enabled the clinical translation of nucleic acid therapeutics: antisense oligonucleotides, ligand-modified small interfering RNA conjugates, lipid nanoparticles and adeno-associated virus vectors. For each platform, we discuss the current state-of-the-art clinical approaches, explain the rationale behind its development, highlight technological aspects that facilitated clinical translation and provide an example of a clinically relevant genetic drug. In addition, we discuss how these technologies enable the development of cutting-edge genetic drugs, such as tissue-specific nucleic acid bioconjugates, messenger RNA and gene-editing therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jayesh A Kulkarni
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics, Department of Medical Genetics, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- NanoMedicines Innovation Network, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- NanoVation Therapeutics, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Dominik Witzigmann
- NanoMedicines Innovation Network, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- NanoVation Therapeutics, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Sarah B Thomson
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics, Department of Medical Genetics, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Sam Chen
- Integrated Nanotherapeutics, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Blair R Leavitt
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics, Department of Medical Genetics, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Pieter R Cullis
- NanoMedicines Innovation Network, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Roy van der Meel
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, The Netherlands.
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19
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Schoenmaker L, Witzigmann D, Kulkarni JA, Verbeke R, Kersten G, Jiskoot W, Crommelin DJA. mRNA-lipid nanoparticle COVID-19 vaccines: Structure and stability. Int J Pharm 2021; 601:120586. [PMID: 33839230 PMCID: PMC8032477 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2021.120586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 534] [Impact Index Per Article: 178.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Revised: 04/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
A drawback of the current mRNA-lipid nanoparticle (LNP) COVID-19 vaccines is that they have to be stored at (ultra)low temperatures. Understanding the root cause of the instability of these vaccines may help to rationally improve mRNA-LNP product stability and thereby ease the temperature conditions for storage. In this review we discuss proposed structures of mRNA-LNPs, factors that impact mRNA-LNP stability and strategies to optimize mRNA-LNP product stability. Analysis of mRNA-LNP structures reveals that mRNA, the ionizable cationic lipid and water are present in the LNP core. The neutral helper lipids are mainly positioned in the outer, encapsulating, wall. mRNA hydrolysis is the determining factor for mRNA-LNP instability. It is currently unclear how water in the LNP core interacts with the mRNA and to what extent the degradation prone sites of mRNA are protected through a coat of ionizable cationic lipids. To improve the stability of mRNA-LNP vaccines, optimization of the mRNA nucleotide composition should be prioritized. Secondly, a better understanding of the milieu the mRNA is exposed to in the core of LNPs may help to rationalize adjustments to the LNP structure to preserve mRNA integrity. Moreover, drying techniques, such as lyophilization, are promising options still to be explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linde Schoenmaker
- Division of BioTherapeutics, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden University, 2300 RA Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Dominik Witzigmann
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada; NanoMedicines Innovation Network (NMIN), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Jayesh A Kulkarni
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada; NanoMedicines Innovation Network (NMIN), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Rein Verbeke
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Gideon Kersten
- Division of BioTherapeutics, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden University, 2300 RA Leiden, the Netherlands; Coriolis Pharma, Fraunhoferstrasse 18b, 82152 Martinsried, Germany
| | - Wim Jiskoot
- Division of BioTherapeutics, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden University, 2300 RA Leiden, the Netherlands; Coriolis Pharma, Fraunhoferstrasse 18b, 82152 Martinsried, Germany.
| | - Daan J A Crommelin
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences (UIPS), Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
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20
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Vogler J, Böttger R, Al Fayez N, Zhang W, Qin Z, Hohenwarter L, Chao PH, Rouhollahi E, Bilal N, Chen N, Lee B, Chen C, Wilkinson B, Kieffer TJ, Kulkarni JA, Cullis PR, Witzigmann D, Li SD. Altering the intra-liver distribution of phospholipid-free small unilamellar vesicles using temperature-dependent size-tunability. J Control Release 2021; 333:151-161. [PMID: 33771624 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2021.03.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2020] [Revised: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
We demonstrated that phospholipid-free small unilamellar vesicles (PFSUVs) composed of TWEEN 80 and cholesterol (25/75, mol%) could be fabricated using a staggered herringbone micromixer with precise controlling of their mean size between 54 nm and 147 nm. Increasing the temperature or decreasing the flow rate led to an increase in the resulting particle diameter. In zebrafish embryos, 120-nm PFSUVs showed 3-fold higher macrophage clearance compared to the 60-nm particles, which exhibited prolonged blood circulation. In mice, the 60-nm particles showed dominant accumulation in the liver hepatocytes (66% hepatocytes positive), while the 120-nm particles were delivered equally to the liver and spleen macrophages. Accordingly, in a murine model of acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity the 60-nm particles loaded with chlorpromazine reduced the serum alanine aminotransferase level and liver necrosis 2- to 4-fold more efficiently than their 120-nm counterparts and the free drug, respectively. This work showed that the intra-liver distribution of PFSUVs was largely determined by the size. Most other nanoparticles published to date are predominantly cleared by the liver Kupffer cells. The 60-nm PFSUVs, on the other hand, focused the delivery to the hepatocytes with significant advantages for the therapy of liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julian Vogler
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Roland Böttger
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Nojoud Al Fayez
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Wunan Zhang
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Zhu Qin
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Lukas Hohenwarter
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Po-Han Chao
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Elham Rouhollahi
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Nida Bilal
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Naliangzi Chen
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Brandon Lee
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Christine Chen
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Brayden Wilkinson
- Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Timothy J Kieffer
- Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Jayesh A Kulkarni
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada; NanoMedicines Innovation Network (NMIN), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Pieter R Cullis
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada; NanoMedicines Innovation Network (NMIN), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Dominik Witzigmann
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada; NanoMedicines Innovation Network (NMIN), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Shyh-Dar Li
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada; NanoMedicines Innovation Network (NMIN), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
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21
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Chander N, Morstein J, Bolten JS, Shemet A, Cullis PR, Trauner D, Witzigmann D. Optimized Photoactivatable Lipid Nanoparticles Enable Red Light Triggered Drug Release. Small 2021; 17:e2008198. [PMID: 33880882 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202008198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Encapsulation of small molecule drugs in long-circulating lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) can reduce toxic side effects and enhance accumulation at tumor sites. A fundamental problem, however, is the slow release of encapsulated drugs from these liposomal systems at the disease site resulting in limited therapeutic benefit. Methods to trigger release at specific sites are highly warranted. Here, it is demonstrated that incorporation of ultraviolet (UV-A) or red-light photoswitchable-phosphatidylcholine analogs (AzoPC and redAzoPC) in conventional LNPs generates photoactivatable LNPs (paLNPs) having comparable structural integrity, drug loading capacity, and size distribution to the parent DSPC-cholesterol liposomes. It is shown that 65-70% drug release (doxorubicin) can be induced from these systems by irradiation with pulsed light based on trans-to-cis azobenzene isomerization. In vitro it is confirmed that paLNPs are non-toxic in the dark but convey cytotoxicity upon irradiation in a human cancer cell line. In vivo studies in zebrafish embryos demonstrate prolonged blood circulation and extravasation of paLNPs comparable to clinically approved formulations, with enhanced drug release following irradiation with pulsed light. Conclusively, paLNPs closely mimic the properties of clinically approved LNPs with the added benefit of light-induced drug release making them promising candidates for clinical development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nisha Chander
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Johannes Morstein
- Department of Chemistry, New York University, 100 Washington Square East, Room 712, New York, NY, 10003, USA
| | - Jan S Bolten
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50, Basel, 4056, Switzerland
| | - Andrej Shemet
- Department of Chemistry, New York University, 100 Washington Square East, Room 712, New York, NY, 10003, USA
| | - Pieter R Cullis
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada
- NanoMedicines Innovation Network (NMIN), University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Room 5451, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Dirk Trauner
- Department of Chemistry, New York University, 100 Washington Square East, Room 712, New York, NY, 10003, USA
| | - Dominik Witzigmann
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada
- NanoMedicines Innovation Network (NMIN), University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Room 5451, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada
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22
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Abstract
Recently, a lipopeptide derived from the hepatitis B virus (HBV) large surface protein has been developed as an HBV entry inhibitor. This lipopeptide, called MyrcludexB (MyrB), selectively binds to the sodium taurocholate cotransporting polypeptide (NTCP) on the basolateral membrane of hepatocytes. Here, the feasibility of coupling therapeutic enzymes to MyrB was investigated for the development of enzyme delivery strategies. Hepatotropic targeting shall enable enzyme prodrug therapies and detoxification procedures. Here, horseradish peroxidase (HRP) was conjugated to MyrB via maleimide chemistry, and coupling was validated by SDS-PAGE and reversed-phase HPLC. The specificity of the target recognition of HRP-MyrB could be shown in an NTCP-overexpressing liver parenchymal cell line, as demonstrated by competitive inhibition with an excess of free MyrB and displayed a strong linear dependency on the applied HRP-MyrB concentration. In vivo studies in zebrafish embryos revealed a dominating interaction of HRP-MyrB with scavenger endothelial cells vs xenografted NTCP expressing mammalian cells. In mice, radiolabeled 125I-HRP-MyrBy, as well as the non-NTCP targeted control HRP-peptide-construct (125I-HRP-alaMyrBy) demonstrated a strong liver accumulation confirming the nonspecific interaction with scavenger cells. Still, MyrB conjugation to HRP resulted in an increased and NTCP-mediated hepatotropism, as revealed by competitive inhibition. In conclusion, the model enzyme HRP was successfully conjugated to MyrB to achieve NTCP-specific targeting in vitro with the potential for ex vivo diagnostic applications. In vivo, target specificity was reduced by non-NTCP-mediated interactions. Nonetheless, tissue distribution experiments in zebrafish embryos provide mechanistic insight into underlying scavenging processes indicating partial involvement of stabilin receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Pratsinis
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Basel 4056, Switzerland
| | - Philipp Uhl
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg 69120, Germany
| | - Jan Stephan Bolten
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Basel 4056, Switzerland
| | - Patrick Hauswirth
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Basel 4056, Switzerland
| | - Susanne Heidi Schenk
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Basel 4056, Switzerland
| | - Stephan Urban
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg 69120, Germany
| | - Walter Mier
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg 69120, Germany
| | - Dominik Witzigmann
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada.,NanoMedicines Innovation Network (NMIN), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British ColumbiaV6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Jörg Huwyler
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Basel 4056, Switzerland
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23
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Chen KTJ, Militao GGC, Anantha M, Witzigmann D, Leung AWY, Bally MB. Development and characterization of a novel flavopiridol formulation for treatment of acute myeloid leukemia. J Control Release 2021; 333:246-257. [PMID: 33798663 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2021.03.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2019] [Revised: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
For more than 30 years, treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) has remained largely unchanged and reliant on chemotherapeutic drug combinations, specifically cytarabine and daunorubicin (the 7 + 3 regimen). One broad spectrum drug, flavopiridol (also known as Alvocidib) has shown significant activity against AML through the inhibition of cyclin-dependent kinases. Flavopiridol is a semisynthetic flavonoid and our research team recently described methods to formulate another flavonoid, quercetin, through the ability of flavonoids to bind divalent metals. This method relies on use of copper-containing liposomes to enhance the apparent solubility of flavopiridol and to create formulations suitable for intravenous (i.v.) use. Similar to quercetin, flavopiridol is defined as an aqueous-insoluble compound (< 1 mg/mL in water) and this research sought to evaluate whether the copper-binding capabilities of flavopiridol could be used to prepare an injectable formulation that would exhibit enhanced exposure and improved efficacy. Flavopiridol powder was added directly to preformed copper-containing liposomes (DSPC:Chol or DSPC:DSPE-PEG2000) and the resulting formulations were characterized. Pharmacokinetic and efficacy studies were then conducted. The liposomal flavopiridol formulations were well-tolerated in mice following i.v. administration at a dose of 5 mg/kg with no apparent acute or chronic toxicities. In vivo pharmacokinetics of the optimized DSPC/DSPE-PEG2000 liposomal flavopiridol formulation demonstrated a 30-fold increase in AUC (0.804 μg-hr/mL versus 26.92 μg-hr/mL) compared to the free flavopiridol formulation. The resultant liposomal formulation also demonstrated significant therapeutic activity in MV4-11 and MOLM-13 subcutaneous AML models. Additional studies will be required to define whether formulation changes can be made to enhance flavopiridol retention in the selected composition. The results suggest that further increases in flavopiridol retention will result in improved therapeutic activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kent T J Chen
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, BC Cancer Research Centre, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1L3, Canada; Department of Interdisciplinary Oncology, BC Cancer Research Centre, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1L3, Canada.
| | - Gardenia G C Militao
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, BC Cancer Research Centre, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1L3, Canada; Federal University of Pernambuco, PE CEP:50.670-901, Brazil
| | - Malathi Anantha
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, BC Cancer Research Centre, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1L3, Canada
| | - Dominik Witzigmann
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 2B5, Canada; NanoMedicines Innovation Network (NMIN), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Ada W Y Leung
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, BC Cancer Research Centre, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1L3, Canada; Cuprous Pharmaceuticals, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Marcel B Bally
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, BC Cancer Research Centre, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1L3, Canada; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 2B5, Canada; Cuprous Pharmaceuticals, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada; NanoMedicines Innovation Network (NMIN), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 2B5, Canada
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24
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Villiger L, Rothgangl T, Witzigmann D, Oka R, Lin PJC, Qi W, Janjuha S, Berk C, Ringnalda F, Beattie MB, Stoffel M, Thöny B, Hall J, Rehrauer H, van Boxtel R, Tam YK, Schwank G. In vivo cytidine base editing of hepatocytes without detectable off-target mutations in RNA and DNA. Nat Biomed Eng 2021; 5:179-189. [PMID: 33495639 PMCID: PMC7610981 DOI: 10.1038/s41551-020-00671-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Base editors are RNA-programmable deaminases that enable precise single-base conversions in genomic DNA. However, off-target activity is a concern in the potential use of base editors to treat genetic diseases. Here, we report unbiased analyses of transcriptome-wide and genome-wide off-target modifications effected by cytidine base editors in the liver of mice with phenylketonuria. The intravenous delivery of intein-split cytidine base editors by dual adeno-associated viruses led to the repair of the disease-causing mutation without generating off-target mutations in the RNA and DNA of the hepatocytes. Moreover, the transient expression of a cytidine base editor mRNA and a relevant single-guide RNA intravenously delivered by lipid nanoparticles led to ~21% on-target editing and to the reversal of the disease phenotype; there were also no detectable transcriptome-wide and genome-wide off-target edits. Our findings support the feasibility of therapeutic cytidine base editing to treat genetic liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukas Villiger
- Department of Biology, Institute for Molecular Health Sciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Institute for Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Tanja Rothgangl
- Department of Biology, Institute for Molecular Health Sciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Institute for Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Dominik Witzigmann
- Institute for Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Rurika Oka
- Oncode Institute, Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Paulo J C Lin
- Acuitas Therapeutics, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Weihong Qi
- Functional Genomics Center Zurich, ETH Zurich/University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Sharan Janjuha
- Department of Biology, Institute for Molecular Health Sciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Institute for Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Christian Berk
- Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Femke Ringnalda
- Department of Biology, Institute for Molecular Health Sciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | | | - Markus Stoffel
- Department of Biology, Institute for Molecular Health Sciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Beat Thöny
- Zurich Center for Integrative Human Physiology, Zurich, Switzerland
- Neuroscience Center Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Division of Metabolism, University Children's Hospital Zurich and Children's Research Centre, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Jonathan Hall
- Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Hubert Rehrauer
- Functional Genomics Center Zurich, ETH Zurich/University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ruben van Boxtel
- Oncode Institute, Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Ying K Tam
- Acuitas Therapeutics, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Gerald Schwank
- Department of Biology, Institute for Molecular Health Sciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
- Institute for Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
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25
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Uhl P, Sauter M, Hertlein T, Witzigmann D, Laffleur F, Hofhaus G, Fidelj V, Tursch A, Özbek S, Hopke E, Haberkorn U, Bernkop‐Schnürch A, Ohlsen K, Fricker G, Mier W. Overcoming the Mucosal Barrier: Tetraether Lipid‐Stabilized Liposomal Nanocarriers Decorated with Cell‐Penetrating Peptides Enable Oral Delivery of Vancomycin. Adv Therap 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/adtp.202000247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Philipp Uhl
- Department of Nuclear Medicine Heidelberg University Hospital Heidelberg 69120 Germany
| | - Max Sauter
- Department of Nuclear Medicine Heidelberg University Hospital Heidelberg 69120 Germany
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacoepidemiology Heidelberg University Hospital Heidelberg 69120 Germany
| | - Tobias Hertlein
- Institute for Molecular Infection Biology University of Würzburg Würzburg 97080 Germany
| | - Dominik Witzigmann
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology University of British Columbia Vancouver British Columbia V6T 1Z3 Canada
| | - Flavia Laffleur
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology Institute of Pharmacy Center for Molecular Biosciences Innsbruck University of Innsbruck Innsbruck 6020 Austria
| | - Götz Hofhaus
- Bioquant, CellNetWorks University of Heidelberg Heidelberg 69120 Germany
| | - Veronika Fidelj
- Institute of Pharmacy and Molecular Biotechnology Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy Ruprecht‐Karls University Heidelberg 69120 Germany
| | - Anja Tursch
- Centre for Organismal Studies Department of Molecular Evolution and Genomics University of Heidelberg Heidelberg 69120 Germany
| | - Suat Özbek
- Centre for Organismal Studies Department of Molecular Evolution and Genomics University of Heidelberg Heidelberg 69120 Germany
| | - Elisa Hopke
- Institute for Molecular Infection Biology University of Würzburg Würzburg 97080 Germany
| | - Uwe Haberkorn
- Department of Nuclear Medicine Heidelberg University Hospital Heidelberg 69120 Germany
| | - Andreas Bernkop‐Schnürch
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology Institute of Pharmacy Center for Molecular Biosciences Innsbruck University of Innsbruck Innsbruck 6020 Austria
| | - Knut Ohlsen
- Institute for Molecular Infection Biology University of Würzburg Würzburg 97080 Germany
| | - Gert Fricker
- Institute of Pharmacy and Molecular Biotechnology Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy Ruprecht‐Karls University Heidelberg 69120 Germany
| | - Walter Mier
- Department of Nuclear Medicine Heidelberg University Hospital Heidelberg 69120 Germany
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26
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Buck J, Mueller D, Mettal U, Ackermann M, Grisch-Chan HM, Thöny B, Zumbuehl A, Huwyler J, Witzigmann D. Improvement of DNA Vector Delivery of DOTAP Lipoplexes by Short-Chain Aminolipids. ACS Omega 2020; 5:24724-24732. [PMID: 33015490 PMCID: PMC7528285 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.0c03303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Cellular delivery of DNA vectors for the expression of therapeutic proteins is a promising approach to treat monogenic disorders or cancer. Significant efforts in a preclinical and clinical setting have been made to develop potent nonviral gene delivery systems based on lipoplexes composed of permanently cationic lipids. However, transfection efficiency and tolerability of such systems are in most cases not satisfactory. Here, we present a one-pot combinatorial method based on double-reductive amination for the synthesis of short-chain aminolipids. These lipids can be used to maximize the DNA vector delivery when combined with the cationic lipid 1,2-dioleoyl-3-trimethylammonium propane (DOTAP). We incorporated various aminolipids into such lipoplexes to complex minicircle DNA and screened these systems in a human liver-derived cell line (HuH7) for gene expression and cytotoxicity. The lead aminolipid AL-A12 showed twofold enhanced gene delivery and reduced toxicity compared to the native DOTAP:cholesterol lipoplexes. Moreover, AL-A12-containing lipoplexes enabled enhanced transgene expression in vivo in the zebrafish embryo model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Buck
- Division
of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50/70, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Dennis Mueller
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Fribourg, 1700 Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Ute Mettal
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Fribourg, 1700 Fribourg, Switzerland
- Department
of Bioresources of the Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology
and Applied Ecology, Institute for Insect
Biotechnology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany
| | - Miriam Ackermann
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Fribourg, 1700 Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Hiu Man Grisch-Chan
- Division
of Metabolism and Children’s Research Center, University Children’s Hospital Zurich, 8032 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Beat Thöny
- Division
of Metabolism and Children’s Research Center, University Children’s Hospital Zurich, 8032 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Andreas Zumbuehl
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Fribourg, 1700 Fribourg, Switzerland
- Acthera
Therapeutics Ltd., Peter
Merian-Strasse 45, 4052 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jörg Huwyler
- Division
of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50/70, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Dominik Witzigmann
- Division
of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50/70, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
- Department
of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University
of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
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27
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Abstract
Gene therapy holds great potential for treating almost any disease by gene silencing, protein expression, or gene correction. To efficiently deliver the nucleic acid payload to its target tissue, the genetic material needs to be combined with a delivery platform. Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) have proven to be excellent delivery vectors for gene therapy and are increasingly entering into routine clinical practice. Over the past two decades, the optimization of LNP formulations for nucleic acid delivery has led to a well-established body of knowledge culminating in the first-ever RNA interference therapeutic using LNP technology, i.e., Onpattro, and many more in clinical development to deliver various nucleic acid payloads. Screening a lipid library in vivo for optimal gene silencing potency in hepatocytes resulted in the identification of the Onpattro formulation. Subsequent studies discovered that the key to Onpattro's liver tropism is its ability to form a specific "biomolecular corona". In fact, apolipoprotein E (ApoE), among other proteins, adsorbed to the LNP surface enables specific hepatocyte targeting. This proof-of-principle example demonstrates the use of the biomolecular corona for targeting specific receptors and cells, thereby opening up the road to rationally designing LNPs. To date, however, only a few studies have explored in detail the corona of LNPs, and how to efficiently modulate the corona remains poorly understood. In this review, we summarize recent discoveries about the biomolecular corona, expanding the knowledge gained with other nanoparticles to LNPs for nucleic acid delivery. In particular, we address how particle stability, biodistribution, and targeting of LNPs can be influenced by the biological environment. Onpattro is used as a case study to describe both the successful development of an LNP formulation for gene therapy and the key influence of the biological environment. Moreover, we outline the techniques available to isolate and analyze the corona of LNPs, and we highlight their advantages and drawbacks. Finally, we discuss possible implications of the biomolecular corona for LNP delivery and we examine the potential of exploiting the corona as a targeting strategy beyond the liver to develop next-generation gene therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Francia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, V6T 1Z3, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Department of Clinical Chemistry and Haematology, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584 CX, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Raymond M Schiffelers
- Department of Clinical Chemistry and Haematology, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584 CX, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Pieter R Cullis
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, V6T 1Z3, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,NanoMedicines Innovation Network (NMIN), University of British Columbia, V6T 1Z3, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Dominik Witzigmann
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, V6T 1Z3, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,NanoMedicines Innovation Network (NMIN), University of British Columbia, V6T 1Z3, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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28
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Liu J, Craciun I, Belluati A, Wu D, Sieber S, Einfalt T, Witzigmann D, Chami M, Huwyler J, Palivan CG. DNA-directed arrangement of soft synthetic compartments and their behavior in vitro and in vivo. Nanoscale 2020; 12:9786-9799. [PMID: 32328600 DOI: 10.1039/d0nr00361a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
DNA has been widely used as a key tether to promote self-organization of super-assemblies with emergent properties. However, control of this process is still challenging for compartment assemblies and to date the resulting assemblies have unstable membranes precluding in vitro and in vivo testing. Here we present our approach to overcome these limitations, by manipulating molecular factors such as compartment membrane composition and DNA surface density, thereby controlling the size and stability of the resulting DNA-linked compartment clusters. The soft, flexible character of the polymer membrane and low number of ssDNA remaining exposed after cluster formation determine the interaction of these clusters with the cell surface. These clusters exhibit in vivo stability and lack of toxicity in a zebrafish model. To display the breadth of therapeutic applications attainable with our system, we encapsulated the medically established enzyme laccase within the inner compartment and demonstrated its activity within the clustered compartments. Most importantly, these clusters can interact selectively with different cell lines, opening a new strategy to modify and expand cellular functions by attaching such pre-organized soft DNA-mediated compartment clusters on cell surfaces for cell engineering or therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Liu
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 24a, Basel-4058, Switzerland.
| | - Ioana Craciun
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 24a, Basel-4058, Switzerland.
| | - Andrea Belluati
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 24a, Basel-4058, Switzerland.
| | - Dalin Wu
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 24a, Basel-4058, Switzerland.
| | - Sandro Sieber
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50, Basel-4056, Switzerland
| | - Tomaz Einfalt
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50, Basel-4056, Switzerland
| | - Dominik Witzigmann
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50, Basel-4056, Switzerland
| | - Mohamed Chami
- BioEM lab, Biozentrum, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 26, Basel-4058, Switzerland
| | - Jörg Huwyler
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50, Basel-4056, Switzerland
| | - Cornelia G Palivan
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 24a, Basel-4058, Switzerland.
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29
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Einfalt T, Garni M, Witzigmann D, Sieber S, Baltisberger N, Huwyler J, Meier W, Palivan CG. Bioinspired Molecular Factories with Architecture and In Vivo Functionalities as Cell Mimics. Adv Sci (Weinh) 2020; 7:1901923. [PMID: 32099756 PMCID: PMC7029636 DOI: 10.1002/advs.201901923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2019] [Revised: 12/02/2019] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Despite huge need in the medical domain and significant development efforts, artificial cells to date have limited composition and functionality. Although some artificial cells have proven successful for producing therapeutics or performing in vitro specific reactions, they have not been investigated in vivo to determine whether they preserve their architecture and functionality while avoiding toxicity. Here, these limitations are overcome and customizable cell mimic is achieved-molecular factories (MFs)-by supplementing giant plasma membrane vesicles derived from donor cells with nanometer-sized artificial organelles (AOs). MFs inherit the donor cell's natural cytoplasm and membrane, while the AOs house reactive components and provide cell-like architecture and functionality. It is demonstrated that reactions inside AOs take place in a close-to-nature environment due to the unprecedented level of complexity in the composition of the MFs. It is further demonstrated that in a zebrafish vertebrate animal model, these cell mimics show no apparent toxicity and retain their integrity and function. The unique advantages of highly varied composition, multicompartmentalized architecture, and preserved functionality in vivo open new biological avenues ranging from the study of biorelevant processes in robust cell-like environments to the production of specific bioactive compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomaž Einfalt
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of BaselMattenstrasse 24a, BPR 1096, P.O. Box 3350CH‐4002BaselSwitzerland
- Department of Pharmaceutical SciencesDivision of Pharmaceutical TechnologyUniversity of BaselKlingelbergstrasse 50CH‐4056BaselSwitzerland
| | - Martina Garni
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of BaselMattenstrasse 24a, BPR 1096, P.O. Box 3350CH‐4002BaselSwitzerland
| | - Dominik Witzigmann
- Department of Pharmaceutical SciencesDivision of Pharmaceutical TechnologyUniversity of BaselKlingelbergstrasse 50CH‐4056BaselSwitzerland
| | - Sandro Sieber
- Department of Pharmaceutical SciencesDivision of Pharmaceutical TechnologyUniversity of BaselKlingelbergstrasse 50CH‐4056BaselSwitzerland
| | - Niklaus Baltisberger
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of BaselMattenstrasse 24a, BPR 1096, P.O. Box 3350CH‐4002BaselSwitzerland
| | - Jörg Huwyler
- Department of Pharmaceutical SciencesDivision of Pharmaceutical TechnologyUniversity of BaselKlingelbergstrasse 50CH‐4056BaselSwitzerland
| | - Wolfgang Meier
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of BaselMattenstrasse 24a, BPR 1096, P.O. Box 3350CH‐4002BaselSwitzerland
| | - Cornelia G. Palivan
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of BaselMattenstrasse 24a, BPR 1096, P.O. Box 3350CH‐4002BaselSwitzerland
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30
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Sedighi M, Rahimi F, Shahbazi MA, Rezayan AH, Kettiger H, Einfalt T, Huwyler J, Witzigmann D. Controlled Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor Delivery to Liver Cancer Cells by Gate-Capped Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles. ACS Appl Bio Mater 2020; 3:239-251. [PMID: 35019440 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.9b00772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma is the most common type of primary malignancy in the liver and one of the most common types of cancer worldwide. Its readily increasing mortality rate highlights the urgent need for the development of efficient therapeutic strategies. Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) such as sorafenib and sunitinib are used as efficient angiogenesis inhibitors for this purpose. However, despite their pharmacological effects, their transfer into clinical practice is characterized by their poor aqueous solubility and accumulation in off-target tissues, resulting in unfavorable side effects. Here, we report a nanocomposite made of amine-functionalized mesoporous silica nanocomposites (MSNs) that are surface-coated with cerium oxide nanoparticles (CNPs) for the controlled delivery and release of TKIs. Amine-functionalized MSNs were prepared using a sol-gel method and loaded with TKIs. To trap drug molecules into the mesoporous structure, CNPs were covalently conjugated to the surface of MSNs. The synthesis and functionalization steps were controlled using different characterization methods, confirming the desired morphology and structure, the identity of functional groups on the surface, successful coating, and appropriate loading efficiency. Under physiological conditions, CNP-capped MSNs demonstrated a sustained drug release over time as a result of CNPs' gatekeeping effect on the payloads. Strong cellular interactions with different liver cancer cells and enhanced cellular uptake were also observed in vitro for the gate-capped MSNs. Internalization of nanocomposites induced cell death via the production of reactive oxygen species, and subsequent activation of apoptosis pathways. This study demonstrates that gate-capped MSNs are promising chemotherapeutic vehicles characterized by a sustained drug release profile and high cellular internalization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahsa Sedighi
- Division of Nanobiotechnology, Department of Life Sciences Engineering, Faculty of New Sciences and Technologies, University of Tehran, 1439957131 Tehran, Iran.,Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, University of Basel, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Fereshteh Rahimi
- Division of Nanobiotechnology, Department of Life Sciences Engineering, Faculty of New Sciences and Technologies, University of Tehran, 1439957131 Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad-Ali Shahbazi
- Department of Micro- and Nanotechnology, Technical University of Denmark, Ørsteds Plads, DK-2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark.,Department of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, 4513956184 Zanjan, Iran
| | - Ali Hossein Rezayan
- Division of Nanobiotechnology, Department of Life Sciences Engineering, Faculty of New Sciences and Technologies, University of Tehran, 1439957131 Tehran, Iran
| | - Helene Kettiger
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Laboratory, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Åbo Akademi University, Tykistökatu 6A, FI-20520 Turku, Finland
| | - Tomaz Einfalt
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, University of Basel, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jörg Huwyler
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, University of Basel, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Dominik Witzigmann
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, University of Basel, 4056 Basel, Switzerland.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Health Sciences Mall, V6T 1Z3 Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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31
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Witzigmann D, Kulkarni JA, Leung J, Chen S, Cullis PR, van der Meel R. Lipid nanoparticle technology for therapeutic gene regulation in the liver. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2020; 159:344-363. [PMID: 32622021 PMCID: PMC7329694 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2020.06.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 163] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2020] [Revised: 06/12/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Hereditary genetic disorders, cancer, and infectious diseases of the liver affect millions of people around the globe and are a major public health burden. Most contemporary treatments offer limited relief as they generally aim to alleviate disease symptoms. Targeting the root cause of diseases originating in the liver by regulating malfunctioning genes with nucleic acid-based drugs holds great promise as a therapeutic approach. However, employing nucleic acid therapeutics in vivo is challenging due to their unfavorable characteristics. Lipid nanoparticle (LNP) delivery technology is a revolutionary development that has enabled clinical translation of gene therapies. LNPs can deliver siRNA, mRNA, DNA, or gene-editing complexes, providing opportunities to treat hepatic diseases by silencing pathogenic genes, expressing therapeutic proteins, or correcting genetic defects. Here we discuss the state-of-the-art LNP technology for hepatic gene therapy including formulation design parameters, production methods, preclinical development and clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominik Witzigmann
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada,NanoMedicines Innovation Network (NMIN), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Jayesh A. Kulkarni
- NanoMedicines Innovation Network (NMIN), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada,Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics, Department of Medical Genetics, BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada,Evonik Canada, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Jerry Leung
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Sam Chen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada,Integrated Nanotherapeutics, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Pieter R. Cullis
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada,NanoMedicines Innovation Network (NMIN), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada,Corresponding author
| | - Roy van der Meel
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
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32
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Akinc A, Maier MA, Manoharan M, Fitzgerald K, Jayaraman M, Barros S, Ansell S, Du X, Hope MJ, Madden TD, Mui BL, Semple SC, Tam YK, Ciufolini M, Witzigmann D, Kulkarni JA, van der Meel R, Cullis PR. The Onpattro story and the clinical translation of nanomedicines containing nucleic acid-based drugs. Nat Nanotechnol 2019; 14:1084-1087. [PMID: 31802031 DOI: 10.1038/s41565-019-0591-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 678] [Impact Index Per Article: 135.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Akin Akinc
- Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Xinyao Du
- Acuitas Therapeutics, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | - Ying K Tam
- Acuitas Therapeutics, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | - Pieter R Cullis
- University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
- NanoMedicines Innovation Network, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
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33
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Bleher S, Buck J, Muhl C, Sieber S, Barnert S, Witzigmann D, Huwyler J, Barz M, Süss R. Poly(Sarcosine) Surface Modification Imparts Stealth-Like Properties to Liposomes. Small 2019; 15:e1904716. [PMID: 31722126 DOI: 10.1002/smll.201904716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2019] [Revised: 10/23/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Circulation lifetime is a crucial parameter for a successful therapy with nanoparticles. Reduction and alteration of opsonization profiles by surface modification of nanoparticles is the main strategy to achieve this objective. In clinical settings, PEGylation is the most relevant strategy to enhance blood circulation, yet it has drawbacks, including hypersensitivity reactions in some patients treated with PEGylated nanoparticles, which fuel the search for alternative strategies. In this work, lipopolysarcosine derivatives (BA-pSar, bisalkyl polysarcosine) with precise chain lengths and low polydispersity indices are synthesized, characterized, and incorporated into the bilayer of preformed liposomes via a post insertion technique. Successful incorporation of BA-pSar can be realized in a clinically relevant liposomal formulation. Furthermore, BA-pSar provides excellent surface charge shielding potential for charged liposomes and renders their surface neutral. Pharmacokinetic investigations in a zebrafish model show enhanced circulation properties and reduction in macrophage recognition, matching the behavior of PEGylated liposomes. Moreover, complement activation, which is a key factor in hypersensitivity reactions caused by PEGylated liposomes, can be reduced by modifying the surface of liposomes with an acetylated BA-pSar derivative. Hence, this study presents an alternative surface modification strategy with similar benefits as the established PEGylation of nanoparticles, but with the potential of reducing its drawbacks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Bleher
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy and Freiburger Materialforschungszentrum (FMF), Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Albert Ludwig University of Freiburg, 79104, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Jonas Buck
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, 4056, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Christian Muhl
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, 55128, Mainz, Germany
| | - Sandro Sieber
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, 4056, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Sabine Barnert
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy and Freiburger Materialforschungszentrum (FMF), Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Albert Ludwig University of Freiburg, 79104, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Dominik Witzigmann
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, 4056, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, V6T 1Z3, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Jörg Huwyler
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, 4056, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Matthias Barz
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, 55128, Mainz, Germany
| | - Regine Süss
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy and Freiburger Materialforschungszentrum (FMF), Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Albert Ludwig University of Freiburg, 79104, Freiburg, Germany
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34
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Uhl P, Grundmann C, Sauter M, Storck P, Tursch A, Özbek S, Leotta K, Roth R, Witzigmann D, Kulkarni JA, Fidelj V, Kleist C, Cullis PR, Fricker G, Mier W. Coating of PLA-nanoparticles with cyclic, arginine-rich cell penetrating peptides enables oral delivery of liraglutide. Nanomedicine 2019; 24:102132. [PMID: 31783138 DOI: 10.1016/j.nano.2019.102132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2019] [Revised: 09/20/2019] [Accepted: 11/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Until today, the oral delivery of peptide drugs is hampered due to their instability in the gastrointestinal tract and low mucosal penetration. To overcome these hurdles, PLA (polylactide acid)-nanoparticles were coated with a cyclic, polyarginine-rich, cell penetrating peptide (cyclic R9-CPP). These surface-modified nanoparticles showed a size and polydispersity index comparable to standard PLA-nanoparticles. The zeta potential showed a significant increase indicating successful CPP-coupling to the surface of the nanoparticles. Cryo-EM micrographs confirmed the appropriate size and morphology of the modified nanoparticles. A high encapsulation efficiency of liraglutide could be achieved. In vitro tests using Caco-2 cells showed high viability indicating the tolerability of this novel formulation. A strongly enhanced mucosal binding and penetration was demonstrated by a Caco-2 binding and uptake assay. In Wistar rats, the novel nanoparticles showed a substantial, 4.5-fold increase in the oral bioavailability of liraglutide revealing great potential for the oral delivery of peptide drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Uhl
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - C Grundmann
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - M Sauter
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany; Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacoepidemiology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - P Storck
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - A Tursch
- University of Heidelberg, Centre for Organismal Studies, Department of Molecular Evolution and Genomics, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - S Özbek
- University of Heidelberg, Centre for Organismal Studies, Department of Molecular Evolution and Genomics, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - K Leotta
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - R Roth
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - D Witzigmann
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - J A Kulkarni
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - V Fidelj
- Institute of Pharmacy and Molecular Biotechnology, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy, Ruprecht-Karls University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - C Kleist
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - P R Cullis
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - G Fricker
- Institute of Pharmacy and Molecular Biotechnology, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy, Ruprecht-Karls University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - W Mier
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany.
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35
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Kulkarni JA, Witzigmann D, Leung J, Tam YYC, Cullis PR. On the role of helper lipids in lipid nanoparticle formulations of siRNA. Nanoscale 2019; 11:21733-21739. [PMID: 31713568 DOI: 10.1039/c9nr09347h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 149] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Onpattro, the first RNAi-based therapeutic to receive FDA approval, is enabled by a lipid nanoparticle (LNP) system that facilitates siRNA delivery into the cytoplasm of target cells (hepatocytes) following intravenous (i.v.) administration. These LNP-siRNA systems consist of four lipid components (ionizable cationic lipid, distearolyphosphatidycholine or DSPC, cholesterol, and PEG-lipid) and siRNA. The ionizable cationic lipid has been optimised for RNA encapsulation and intracellular delivery, and the PEG-lipids have been engineered to regulate LNP size and transfection potency. The roles of the other "helper" lipids, DSPC and cholesterol, remain less clear. Here we show that in empty LNP systems that do not contain siRNA, DSPC-cholesterol resides in outer layers, whereas in loaded systems a portion of the DSPC-cholesterol is internalised together with siRNA. It is concluded that the presence of internalised helper lipid is vital to the stable encapsulation of siRNA in the LNP and thus to LNP-siRNA function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jayesh A Kulkarni
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia, CanadaV6T 1Z3.
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36
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Sieber S, Grossen P, Bussmann J, Campbell F, Kros A, Witzigmann D, Huwyler J. Zebrafish as a preclinical in vivo screening model for nanomedicines. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2019; 151-152:152-168. [PMID: 30615917 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2019.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2018] [Revised: 12/23/2018] [Accepted: 01/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The interactions of nanomedicines with biological environments is heavily influenced by their physicochemical properties. Formulation design and optimization are therefore key steps towards successful nanomedicine development. Unfortunately, detailed assessment of nanomedicine formulations, at a macromolecular level, in rodents is severely limited by the restricted imaging possibilities within these animals. Moreover, rodent in vivo studies are time consuming and expensive, limiting the number of formulations that can be practically assessed in any one study. Consequently, screening and optimisation of nanomedicine formulations is most commonly performed in surrogate biological model systems, such as human-derived cell cultures. However, despite the time and cost advantages of classical in vitro models, these artificial systems fail to reflect and mimic the complex biological situation a nanomedicine will encounter in vivo. This has acutely hampered the selection of potentially successful nanomedicines for subsequent rodent in vivo studies. Recently, zebrafish have emerged as a promising in vivo model, within nanomedicine development pipelines, by offering opportunities to quickly screen nanomedicines under in vivo conditions and in a cost-effective manner so as to bridge the current gap between in vitro and rodent studies. In this review, we outline several advantageous features of the zebrafish model, such as biological conservation, imaging modalities, availability of genetic tools and disease models, as well as their various applications in nanomedicine development. Critical experimental parameters are discussed and the most beneficial applications of the zebrafish model, in the context of nanomedicine development, are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandro Sieber
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Philip Grossen
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jeroen Bussmann
- Department of Supramolecular and Biomaterials Chemistry, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Frederick Campbell
- Department of Supramolecular and Biomaterials Chemistry, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Alexander Kros
- Department of Supramolecular and Biomaterials Chemistry, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Dominik Witzigmann
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada..
| | - Jörg Huwyler
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
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Abstract
Delivering nucleic acid-based therapeutics to cells is an attractive approach to target the genetic cause of various diseases. In contrast to conventional small molecule drugs that target gene products (i.e., proteins), genetic drugs induce therapeutic effects by modulating gene expression. Gene silencing, the process whereby protein production is prevented by neutralizing its mRNA template, is a potent strategy to induce therapeutic effects in a highly precise manner. Importantly, gene silencing has broad potential as theoretically any disease-causing gene can be targeted. It was demonstrated two decades ago that introducing synthetic small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) into the cytoplasm results in specific degradation of complementary mRNA via a process called RNA interference (RNAi). Since then, significant efforts and investments have been made to exploit RNAi therapeutically and advance siRNA drugs to the clinic. Utilizing (unmodified) siRNA as a therapeutic, however, is challenging due to its limited bioavailability following systemic administration. Nuclease activity and renal filtration result in siRNA's rapid clearance from the circulation and its administration induces (innate) immune responses. Furthermore, siRNA's unfavorable physicochemical characteristics largely prevent its diffusion across cellular membranes, impeding its ability to reach the cytoplasm where it can engage the RNAi machinery. The clinical translation of siRNA therapeutics has therefore been dependent on chemical modifications and developing sophisticated delivery platforms to improve their stability, limit immune activation, facilitate internalization, and increase target affinity. These developments have resulted in last year's approval of the first siRNA therapeutic, called Onpattro (patisiran), for treatment of hereditary amyloidogenic transthyretin (TTR) amyloidosis. This disease is characterized by a mutation in the gene encoding TTR, a serum protein that transports retinol in circulation following secretion by the liver. The mutation leads to production of misfolded proteins that deposit as amyloid fibrils in multiple organs, resulting in progressive neurodegeneration. Patisiran's therapeutic effect relies on siRNA-mediated TTR gene silencing, preventing mutant protein production and halting or even reversing disease progression. For efficient therapeutic siRNA delivery to hepatocytes, patisiran is critically dependent on lipid nanoparticle (LNP) technology. In this Account, we provide an overview of key advances that have been crucial for developing LNP delivery technology, and we explain how these developments have contributed to the clinical translation of siRNA therapeutics for parenteral administration. We discuss optimization of the LNP formulation, particularly focusing on the rational design of ionizable cationic lipids and poly(ethylene glycol) lipids. These components have proven to be instrumental for highly efficient siRNA encapsulation, favorable LNP pharmacokinetic parameters, and hepatocyte internalization. Additionally, we pay attention to the development of rapid mixing-based methods that provide robust and scalable LNP production procedures. Finally, we highlight patisiran's clinical translation and LNP delivery technology's potential to enable the development of genetic drugs beyond the current state-of-the-art, such as mRNA and gene editing therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jayesh A. Kulkarni
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics, Department of Medical Genetics, BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V5Z 4H4, Canada
| | - Dominik Witzigmann
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Sam Chen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
- Integrated Nanotherapeutics, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Pieter R. Cullis
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Roy van der Meel
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
- Department of Clinical Chemistry and Haematology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht 3584 CX, The Netherlands
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven 5612 AE, The Netherlands
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38
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Witzigmann D, Uhl P, Sieber S, Kaufman C, Einfalt T, Schöneweis K, Grossen P, Buck J, Ni Y, Schenk SH, Hussner J, Meyer Zu Schwabedissen HE, Québatte G, Mier W, Urban S, Huwyler J. Optimization-by-design of hepatotropic lipid nanoparticles targeting the sodium-taurocholate cotransporting polypeptide. eLife 2019; 8:42276. [PMID: 31333191 PMCID: PMC6682401 DOI: 10.7554/elife.42276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2018] [Accepted: 07/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Active targeting and specific drug delivery to parenchymal liver cells is a promising strategy to treat various liver disorders. Here, we modified synthetic lipid-based nanoparticles with targeting peptides derived from the hepatitis B virus large envelope protein (HBVpreS) to specifically target the sodium-taurocholate cotransporting polypeptide (NTCP; SLC10A1) on the sinusoidal membrane of hepatocytes. Physicochemical properties of targeted nanoparticles were optimized and NTCP-specific, ligand-dependent binding and internalization was confirmed in vitro. The pharmacokinetics and targeting capacity of selected lead formulations was investigated in vivo using the emerging zebrafish screening model. Liposomal nanoparticles modified with 0.25 mol% of a short myristoylated HBV derived peptide, that is Myr-HBVpreS2-31, showed an optimal balance between systemic circulation, avoidance of blood clearance, and targeting capacity. Pronounced liver enrichment, active NTCP-mediated targeting of hepatocytes and efficient cellular internalization were confirmed in mice by 111In gamma scintigraphy and fluorescence microscopy demonstrating the potential use of our hepatotropic, ligand-modified nanoparticles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominik Witzigmann
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Philipp Uhl
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Sandro Sieber
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Christina Kaufman
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,Department of Infectious Diseases, Molecular Virology, University Hospital Heidelberg, INF, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Tomaz Einfalt
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Katrin Schöneweis
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Molecular Virology, University Hospital Heidelberg, INF, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Philip Grossen
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jonas Buck
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Yi Ni
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Molecular Virology, University Hospital Heidelberg, INF, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Susanne H Schenk
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Janine Hussner
- Division of Biopharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Gabriela Québatte
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Walter Mier
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Stephan Urban
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Molecular Virology, University Hospital Heidelberg, INF, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jörg Huwyler
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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39
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Sedighi M, Sieber S, Rahimi F, Shahbazi MA, Rezayan AH, Huwyler J, Witzigmann D. Rapid optimization of liposome characteristics using a combined microfluidics and design-of-experiment approach. Drug Deliv Transl Res 2019; 9:404-413. [PMID: 30306459 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-018-0587-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Liposomes have attracted much attention as the first nanoformulations entering the clinic. The optimization of physicochemical properties of liposomes during nanomedicine development however is time-consuming and challenging despite great advances in formulation development. Here, we present a systematic approach for the rapid size optimization of liposomes. The combination of microfluidics with a design-of-experiment (DoE) approach offers a strategy to rapidly screen and optimize various liposome formulations, i.e., up to 30 liposome formulations in 1 day. Five representative liposome formulations based on clinically approved lipid compositions were formulated using systematic variations in microfluidics flow rate settings, i.e., flow rate ratio (FRR) and total flow rate (TFR). Interestingly, flow rate-dependent DoE models for the prediction of liposome characteristics could be grouped according to lipid-phase transition temperature and surface characteristics. For all formulations, the FRR had a significant impact (p < 0.001) on hydrodynamic diameter and size distribution of liposomes, while the TFR mainly affected the production rate. Liposome characteristics remained constant for TFRs above 8 mL/min. The stability study revealed an influence of lipid:cholesterol ratio (1:1 and 2:1 ratio) and presence of PEG on liposome characteristics during storage. To validate our DoE models, we formulated liposomes incorporating hydrophobic dodecanethiol-coated gold nanoparticles. This proof-of-concept step showed that flow rate settings predicted by DoE models successfully determined the size of resulting empty liposomes (109.3 ± 15.3 nm) or nanocomposites (111 ± 17.3 nm). This study indicates that a microfluidics-based formulation approach combined with DoE is suitable for the routine development of monodisperse and size-specific liposomes in a reproducible and rapid manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahsa Sedighi
- Division of Nanobiotechnology, Department of Life Sciences Engineering, Faculty of New Sciences and Technologies, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50, 4056, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Sandro Sieber
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50, 4056, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Fereshteh Rahimi
- Division of Nanobiotechnology, Department of Life Sciences Engineering, Faculty of New Sciences and Technologies, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mohammad-Ali Shahbazi
- Department of Micro- and Nanotechnology, Technical University of Denmark, Ørsteds Plads, DK-2800, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark.,Department of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
| | - Ali Hossein Rezayan
- Division of Nanobiotechnology, Department of Life Sciences Engineering, Faculty of New Sciences and Technologies, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Jörg Huwyler
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50, 4056, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Dominik Witzigmann
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50, 4056, Basel, Switzerland.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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40
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Kulkarni JA, Witzigmann D, Leung J, van der Meel R, Zaifman J, Darjuan MM, Grisch-Chan HM, Thöny B, Tam YYC, Cullis PR. Fusion-dependent formation of lipid nanoparticles containing macromolecular payloads. Nanoscale 2019; 11:9023-9031. [PMID: 31021343 DOI: 10.1039/c9nr02004g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
The success of Onpattro™ (patisiran) clearly demonstrates the utility of lipid nanoparticle (LNP) systems for enabling gene therapies. These systems are composed of ionizable cationic lipids, phospholipid, cholesterol, and polyethylene glycol (PEG)-lipids, and are produced through rapid-mixing of an ethanolic-lipid solution with an acidic aqueous solution followed by dialysis into neutralizing buffer. A detailed understanding of the mechanism of LNP formation is crucial to improving LNP design. Here we use cryogenic transmission electron microscopy and fluorescence techniques to further demonstrate that LNP are formed through the fusion of precursor, pH-sensitive liposomes into large electron-dense core structures as the pH is neutralized. Next, we show that the fusion process is limited by the accumulation of PEG-lipid on the emerging particle. Finally, we show that the fusion-dependent mechanism of formation also applies to LNP containing macromolecular payloads including mRNA, DNA vectors, and gold nanoparticles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jayesh A Kulkarni
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada V6T 1Z3.
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41
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Abstract
Gene therapy is a promising strategy for the treatment of monogenic disorders. Non-viral gene delivery systems including lipid-based DNA therapeutics offer the opportunity to deliver an encoding gene sequence specifically to the target tissue and thus enable the expression of therapeutic proteins in diseased cells. Currently, available gene delivery approaches based on DNA are inefficient and require improvements to achieve clinical utility. In this Review, we discuss state-of-the-art lipid-based DNA delivery systems that have been investigated in a preclinical setting. We emphasize factors influencing the delivery and subsequent gene expression in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo. In addition, we cover aspects of nanoparticle engineering and optimization for DNA therapeutics. Finally, we highlight achievements of lipid-based DNA therapies in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Buck
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences , University of Basel , Klingelbergstrasse 50 , 4056 Basel , Switzerland
| | - Philip Grossen
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences , University of Basel , Klingelbergstrasse 50 , 4056 Basel , Switzerland
| | - Pieter R Cullis
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology , University of British Columbia , 2350 Health Sciences Mall , Vancouver , British Columbia V6T 1Z3 , Canada
| | - Jörg Huwyler
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences , University of Basel , Klingelbergstrasse 50 , 4056 Basel , Switzerland
| | - Dominik Witzigmann
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences , University of Basel , Klingelbergstrasse 50 , 4056 Basel , Switzerland
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology , University of British Columbia , 2350 Health Sciences Mall , Vancouver , British Columbia V6T 1Z3 , Canada
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42
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Sieber S, Grossen P, Uhl P, Detampel P, Mier W, Witzigmann D, Huwyler J. Zebrafish as a predictive screening model to assess macrophage clearance of liposomes in vivo. Nanomedicine: Nanotechnology, Biology and Medicine 2019; 17:82-93. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nano.2018.11.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2018] [Revised: 10/11/2018] [Accepted: 11/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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43
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Witzigmann D, Hak S, van der Meel R. Translating nanomedicines: Thinking beyond materials? A young investigator's reply to ‘The Novelty Bubble’. J Control Release 2018; 290:138-140. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2018.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2018] [Revised: 10/05/2018] [Accepted: 10/08/2018] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
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44
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Sieber S, Grossen P, Detampel P, Siegfried S, Witzigmann D, Huwyler J. Zebrafish as an early stage screening tool to study the systemic circulation of nanoparticulate drug delivery systems in vivo. J Control Release 2017; 264:180-191. [PMID: 28851572 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2017.08.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2017] [Revised: 08/20/2017] [Accepted: 08/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Nanomedicines have gained much attention for the delivery of small molecules or nucleic acids as treatment options for many diseases. However, the transfer from experimental systems to in vivo applications remains a challenge since it is difficult to assess their circulation behavior in the body at an early stage of drug discovery. Thus, innovative and improved concepts are urgently needed to overcome this issue and to close the gap between empiric nanoparticle design, in vitro assessment, and first in vivo experiments using rodent animal models. This study was focused on the zebrafish as a vertebrate screening model to assess the circulation in blood and extravasation behavior of nanoparticulate drug delivery systems in vivo. To validate this novel approach, monodisperse preparations of fluorescently labeled liposomes with similar size and zeta potential were injected into transgenic zebrafish lines expressing green fluorescent protein in their vasculature. Phosphatidylcholine-based lipids differed by fatty acid chain length and saturation. Circulation behavior and vascular distribution pattern were evaluated qualitatively and semi-quantitatively using image analysis. Liposomes composed of lipids with lower transition temperature (<28°C) as well as PEGylated liposomes showed longer circulation times and extravasation. In contrast, liposomes composed of lipids with transition temperatures>28°C bound to venous parts of the vasculature. This circulation patterns in the zebrafish model did correlate with published and experimental pharmacokinetic data from mice and rats. Our findings indicate that the zebrafish model is a useful vertebrate screening tool for nanoparticulate drug delivery systems to predict their in vivo circulation behavior with respect to systemic circulation time and exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandro Sieber
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Philip Grossen
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Pascal Detampel
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Salome Siegfried
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Dominik Witzigmann
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Jörg Huwyler
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
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Kiene K, Schenk SH, Porta F, Ernst A, Witzigmann D, Grossen P, Huwyler J. PDMS-b-PMOXA polymersomes for hepatocyte targeting and assessment of toxicity. Eur J Pharm Biopharm 2017; 119:322-332. [PMID: 28720487 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2017.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2017] [Revised: 06/12/2017] [Accepted: 07/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Nanoparticles, such as polymersomes, can be directed to the hepatic asialoglycoprotein receptor to achieve targeted drug delivery. In this study, we prepared asialofetuin conjugated polymersomes based on the amphiphilic di-block copolymer poly(dimethylsiloxane)-b-poly(2-methyloxazoline) (PDMS-b-PMOXA). They had an average diameter of 150nm and formed monodisperse vesicles. Drug encapsulation and sustained release was monitored using the hydrophilic model compound carboxyfluorescein. Asialoglycoprotein receptor specific uptake by HepG2 cells in vitro was energy dependent and could be competitively inhibited by the free targeting ligand. Mechanistic uptake studies revealed intracellular trafficking of asialofetuin conjugated polymersomes from early endosomes and to the lysosomal compartment. Polymersomes showed no toxicity in the MTT assay up to concentrations of 500μg/mL. In addition, acute toxicity and tolerability of our PDMS-b-PMOXA polymersome formulations was assessed in vivo using zebrafish embryos as a vertebrate screening model. In conclusion, a hepatocyte specific drug delivery system was designed, which is safe and biocompatible and which can be used to implement liver-specific targeting strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klara Kiene
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Susanne H Schenk
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Fabiola Porta
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Alexandra Ernst
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Dominik Witzigmann
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Philip Grossen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jörg Huwyler
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50, 4056 Basel, Switzerland.
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Grossen P, Witzigmann D, Sieber S, Huwyler J. PEG-PCL-based nanomedicines: A biodegradable drug delivery system and its application. J Control Release 2017; 260:46-60. [PMID: 28536049 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2017.05.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 260] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2017] [Revised: 05/19/2017] [Accepted: 05/20/2017] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
The lack of efficient therapeutic options for many severe disorders including cancer spurs demand for improved drug delivery technologies. Nanoscale drug delivery systems based on poly(ethylene glycol)-poly(ε-caprolactone) copolymers (PEG-PCL) represent a strategy to implement therapies with enhanced drug accumulation at the site of action and decreased off-target effects. In this review, we discuss state-of-the-art nanomedicines based on PEG-PCL that have been investigated in a preclinical setting. We summarize the various synthesis routes and different preparation methods used for the production of PEG-PCL nanoparticles. Additionally, we review physico-chemical properties including biodegradability, biocompatibility, and drug loading. Finally, we highlight recent therapeutic applications investigated in vitro and in vivo using advanced systems such as triggered release, multi-component therapies, theranostics, or gene delivery systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip Grossen
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Dominik Witzigmann
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Sandro Sieber
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jörg Huwyler
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
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47
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Gliesche DG, Hussner J, Witzigmann D, Porta F, Glatter T, Schmidt A, Huwyler J, Meyer Zu Schwabedissen HE. Secreted Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 of Proliferating Smooth Muscle Cells as a Trigger for Drug Release from Stent Surface Polymers in Coronary Arteries. Mol Pharm 2016; 13:2290-300. [PMID: 27241028 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.6b00033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases are the leading causes of death in industrialized countries. Atherosclerotic coronary arteries are commonly treated with percutaneous transluminal coronary intervention followed by stent deployment. This treatment has significantly improved the clinical outcome. However, triggered vascular smooth muscle cell (SMC) proliferation leads to in-stent restenosis in bare metal stents. In addition, stent thrombosis is a severe side effect of drug eluting stents due to inhibition of endothelialization. The aim of this study was to develop and test a stent surface polymer, where cytotoxic drugs are covalently conjugated to the surface and released by proteases selectively secreted by proliferating smooth muscle cells. Resting and proliferating human coronary artery smooth muscle cells (HCASMC) and endothelial cells (HCAEC) were screened to identify an enzyme exclusively released by proliferating HCASMC. Expression analyses and enzyme activity assays verified selective and exclusive activity of the matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) in proliferating HCASMC. The principle of drug release exclusively triggered by proliferating HCASMC was tested using the biodegradable stent surface polymer poly-l-lactic acid (PLLA) and the MMP-9 cleavable peptide linkers named SRL and AVR. The specific peptide cleavage by MMP-9 was verified by attachment of the model compound fluorescein. Fluorescein release was observed in the presence of MMP-9 secreting HCASMC but not of proliferating HCAEC. Our findings suggest that cytotoxic drug conjugated polymers can be designed to selectively release the attached compound triggered by MMP-9 secreting smooth muscle cells. This novel concept may be beneficial for stent endothelialization thereby reducing the risk of restenosis and thrombosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel G Gliesche
- Biopharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel , 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Janine Hussner
- Biopharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel , 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Dominik Witzigmann
- Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel , Basel 4056, Switzerland
| | - Fabiola Porta
- Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel , Basel 4056, Switzerland
| | - Timo Glatter
- Proteomics Core Facility, Biozentrum, University of Basel , Basel 4056, Switzerland
| | - Alexander Schmidt
- Proteomics Core Facility, Biozentrum, University of Basel , Basel 4056, Switzerland
| | - Jörg Huwyler
- Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel , Basel 4056, Switzerland
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Witzigmann D, Quagliata L, Schenk SH, Quintavalle C, Terracciano LM, Huwyler J. Variable asialoglycoprotein receptor 1 expression in liver disease: Implications for therapeutic intervention. Hepatol Res 2016; 46:686-96. [PMID: 26422581 DOI: 10.1111/hepr.12599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2015] [Revised: 09/07/2015] [Accepted: 09/19/2015] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
AIM One of the most promising strategies for the treatment of liver diseases is targeted drug delivery via the asialoglycoprotein receptor (ASGPR). The success of this approach heavily depends on the ASGPR expression level on parenchymal liver cells. In this study, we assessed the mRNA and protein expression levels of the major receptor subunit, ASGR1, in hepatocytes both in vitro and in vivo. METHODS In vitro, various liver cancer-derived cell lines were evaluated. In vivo, we screened the ASGR1 mRNA on 59 hepatocellular carcinoma and matched non-neoplastic tissue using RNA microarray. In addition, 350 human liver specimens of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma or non-neoplastic liver diseases were screened for ASGR1 protein level using tissue microarray analysis. RESULTS Our data reveal that the ASGR1 mRNA expression directly correlates with the protein level. We demonstrate that the ASGR1 expression is upregulated in cirrhotic specimens and is significantly decreased with increasing hepatocellular carcinoma grade. CONCLUSION Because the ASGR1 expression levels are variable between patients, our findings suggest that ASGPR-based targeting strategies should be combined with ASGPR-companion diagnostics to maximize clinical benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominik Witzigmann
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Luca Quagliata
- Institute of Pathology, Molecular Pathology Division, University Hospital of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Susanne H Schenk
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Cristina Quintavalle
- Institute of Pathology, Molecular Pathology Division, University Hospital of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Luigi M Terracciano
- Institute of Pathology, Molecular Pathology Division, University Hospital of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jörg Huwyler
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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Witzigmann D, Detampel P, Porta F, Huwyler J. Isolation of multiantennary N-glycans from glycoproteins for hepatocyte specific targeting via the asialoglycoprotein receptor. RSC Adv 2016. [DOI: 10.1039/c6ra18297f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The asialoglycoprotein receptor (ASGPR) expressed on parenchymal liver cells specifically binds multivalent carbohydrates from desialylated glycoproteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominik Witzigmann
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences
- University of Basel
- Basel CH-4056
- Switzerland
| | - Pascal Detampel
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences
- University of Basel
- Basel CH-4056
- Switzerland
| | - Fabiola Porta
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences
- University of Basel
- Basel CH-4056
- Switzerland
| | - Jörg Huwyler
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences
- University of Basel
- Basel CH-4056
- Switzerland
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50
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Witzigmann D, Wu D, Schenk SH, Balasubramanian V, Meier W, Huwyler J. Biocompatible polymer-Peptide hybrid-based DNA nanoparticles for gene delivery. ACS Appl Mater Interfaces 2015; 7:10446-10456. [PMID: 25907363 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.5b01684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Currently, research on polymers to be used as gene delivery systems is one of the most important directions in both polymer science and biomedicine. In this report, we describe a five-step procedure to synthesize a novel polymer-peptide hybrid system for gene transfection. The block copolymer based on the biocompatible polymer poly(2-methyl-2-oxazoline) (PMOXA) was combined with the biocleavable peptide block poly(aspartic acid) (PASP) and finally modified with diethylenetriamine (DET). PMOXA-b-PASP(DET) was produced in high yield and characterized by (1)H NMR and FT-IR. Our biopolymer complexed plasmid DNA (pDNA) efficiently, and highly uniform nanoparticles with a slightly negative zeta potential were produced. The polymer-peptide hybrid system was able to efficiently transfect HEK293 and HeLa cells with GFP pDNA in vitro. Unlike the commonly used polymer, 25 kDa branched poly(ethylenimine), our biopolymer had no adverse effects on cell growth and viability. In summary, the present work provides valuable information for the design of new polymer-peptide hybrid-based gene delivery systems with biocompatible and biodegradable properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominik Witzigmann
- †Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50, Basel CH-4056, Switzerland
| | - Dalin Wu
- ‡Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 80, Basel CH-4056, Switzerland
| | - Susanne H Schenk
- †Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50, Basel CH-4056, Switzerland
| | - Vimalkumar Balasubramanian
- †Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50, Basel CH-4056, Switzerland
- §Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Viikinkaari 5E, Helsinki FI-00014, Finland
| | - Wolfgang Meier
- ‡Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 80, Basel CH-4056, Switzerland
| | - Jörg Huwyler
- †Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50, Basel CH-4056, Switzerland
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