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So RB, Li G, Brentville V, Daly JM, Dixon JE. Combined biolistic and cell penetrating peptide delivery for the development of scalable intradermal DNA vaccines. J Control Release 2024; 367:209-222. [PMID: 38244841 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.01.031] [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: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
Physical-based gene delivery via biolistic methods (such as the Helios gene gun) involve precipitation of nucleic acids onto microparticles and direct transfection through cell membranes of exposed tissue (e.g. skin) by high velocity acceleration. The glycosaminoglycan (GAG)-binding enhanced transduction (GET) system exploits novel fusion peptides consisting of cell-binding, nucleic acid condensing, and cell-penetrating domains, which enable enhanced transfection across multiple cell types. In this study, we combined chemical (GET) and physical (gene gun) DNA delivery systems, and hypothesized the combination would generate enhanced distribution and effective uptake in cells not initially transfected by biolistic penetration. Physicochemical characterization, optimization of bullet contents and transfection experiments in vitro in cell monolayers and engineered tissue demonstrated these formulations transfected efficiently, including DC2.4 dendritic cells. We incorporated these formulations into a biolistic format for gene gun by forming fireable dry bullets obtained via lyophilization (freeze drying). This system is simple and with enhanced scalability compared to conventional methods to generate bullets. Flushed GET bullet contents retained their ability to mediate transfection (17-fold greater and 13-fold greater reporter gene expression than standard spermidine bullets in the absence and presence of serum, respectively). Fired GET bullets in vitro (in cells and collagen gels) and in vivo (mice) showed increased reporter gene transfection compared to untreated controls, whilst maintaining cell viability in vitro and having no obvious toxicity in vivo. Lastly, a SARS-CoV-2 plasmid DNA vaccine with spike (S) protein-receptor binding domain (S-RBD) was delivered by gene gun using GET bullets. Specific T cell and antibody responses comparable to the conventional system were generated. The non-physical and physical combination of GET‑gold-DNA carriers using gene gun shows potential as an alternative DNA delivery method that is scalable for mass deployable vaccination and intradermal gene delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roizza Beth So
- Regenerative Medicine & Cellular Therapies (RMCT), Biodiscovery Institute (BDI), School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Gang Li
- Regenerative Medicine & Cellular Therapies (RMCT), Biodiscovery Institute (BDI), School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Victoria Brentville
- Scancell Ltd, University of Nottingham Biodiscovery Institute, University Park, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Janet M Daly
- One Virology, Wolfson Centre for Global Virus Research, School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington, Loughborough LE12 5RD, UK
| | - James E Dixon
- Regenerative Medicine & Cellular Therapies (RMCT), Biodiscovery Institute (BDI), School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK; NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK.
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2
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Pagliari S, Dema B, Sanchez-Martinez A, Montalvo Zurbia-Flores G, Rollier CS. DNA Vaccines: History, Molecular Mechanisms and Future Perspectives. J Mol Biol 2023; 435:168297. [PMID: 37797831 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2023.168297] [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: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
The history of DNA vaccine began as early as the 1960s with the discovery that naked DNA can transfect mammalian cells in vivo. In 1992, the evidence that such transfection could lead to the generation of antigen-specific antibody responses was obtained and supported the development of this technology as a novel vaccine platform. The technology then attracted immense interest and high hopes in vaccinology, as evidence of high immunogenicity and protection against virulent challenges accumulated from several animal models for several diseases. In particular, the capacity to induce T-cell responses was unprecedented in non-live vaccines. However, the technology suffered its major knock when the success in animals failed to translate to humans, where DNA vaccine candidates were shown to be safe but remained poorly immunogenic, or not associated with clinical benefit. Thanks to a thorough exploration of the molecular mechanisms of action of these vaccines, an impressive range of approaches have been and are currently being explored to overcome this major challenge. Despite limited success so far in humans as compared with later genetic vaccine technologies such as viral vectors and mRNA, DNA vaccines are not yet optimised for human use and may still realise their potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sthefany Pagliari
- School of Biosciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK; Jenner Institute, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Barbara Dema
- Pandemic Science Institute, Institute of Developmental and Regenerative Medicine (IDRM), University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | | | - Christine S Rollier
- School of Biosciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK.
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3
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Trempe F, Rossotti MA, Maqbool T, MacKenzie CR, Arbabi-Ghahroudi M. Llama DNA Immunization and Isolation of Functional Single-Domain Antibody Binders. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2446:37-70. [PMID: 35157268 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2075-5_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Genetic immunization is a simple, cost-effective, and powerful tool for inducing innate and adaptive immune responses to combat infectious diseases and difficult-to-treat illnesses. DNA immunization is increasingly used in the generation of monoclonal antibodies against targets for which pure proteins are unavailable or are difficult to express and purify (e.g., ion channels and receptors, transmembrane proteins, and emerging infectious pathogens). Genetic immunization has been successfully utilized in small inbred laboratory animals (mostly rodents); however, low immunogenicity of DNA/RNA injected into large mammals, including humans, is still a major challenge. Here, we provide a method for the genetic immunization of llamas, using a combination of biolistic transfection with a gene gun and intradermal injection with a DERMOJET® device, to elicit heavy-chain IgG responses against epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). We show the technique can be used to generate single-domain antibodies (VHHs) with nanomolar affinities to EGFR. We provide methods for gene gun bullet preparation, llama immunization, serology, phage-display library construction and panning, and VHH characterization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frédéric Trempe
- Human Health Therapeutics Research Centre, National Research Council Canada, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Martin A Rossotti
- Human Health Therapeutics Research Centre, National Research Council Canada, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | | | - C Roger MacKenzie
- Human Health Therapeutics Research Centre, National Research Council Canada, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Mehdi Arbabi-Ghahroudi
- Human Health Therapeutics Research Centre, National Research Council Canada, Ottawa, ON, Canada. .,Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada. .,Department of Biology, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, Canada.
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4
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Fernandez JC, Burch-Smith TM. Investigating Plasmodesmata Function in Arabidopsis Thaliana Using a Low-Pressure Bombardment System and GFP Movement Assay. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2457:273-283. [PMID: 35349147 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2132-5_18] [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] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Plasmodesmata are nanopores in the plant cell wall that allow direct cell-to-cell communication. They are key for plant growth, development, and defense. However, studying these pores is challenging due to their small size, with diameters of 30-50 nm and lengths that match cell wall thickness. One particular challenge is measuring how much cell-to-cell trafficking is facilitated by the plasmodesmata in a tissue or between particular cells. Here, we present an approach for studying plasmodesmata-mediated trafficking in the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana by using an easy-to-build and affordable low-pressure particle bombardment apparatus. Using low-pressure particle bombardment at around 60 psi, we are able to transform individual cells in the leaf epidermis and study by confocal fluorescence microscopy the subsequent cell-to-cell trafficking of the diffusible molecule green fluorescent protein (GFP). The technique and equipment could be used by any plant biologist to measure intercellular trafficking through plasmodesmata under varying growth conditions including exposure to different stresses, light conditions, chemical treatments, or in various mutant backgrounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica C Fernandez
- Department of Biochemistry & Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA
- Department of Botany, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Tessa M Burch-Smith
- Department of Biochemistry & Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA.
- Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, Saint Louis, MO, USA.
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5
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Gotesman M, Hosein RE, Williams SA. Using a Hand-Held Gene Gun for Genetic Transformation of Tetrahymena thermophila. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2364:349-61. [PMID: 34542863 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-1661-1_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register]
Abstract
Biolistic bombardment is widely used as a means of delivering vector-coated microparticles into microorganisms, cultured cells, and tissues. The first particle delivery system contained a helium propulsion unit (the gun) mounted in a vacuum-controlled chamber. In contrast, the hand-held gene gun does not operate within a chamber. It is completely hand-held, easy, and efficient to use, and it requires minimal space on the laboratory bench top. This chapter describes protocols for using a hand-held gene gun to deliver transformation vectors for overexpression of genes or gene replacement into the macronucleus of Tetrahymena thermophila. The protocols provide helpful information for preparing Tetrahymena for biolistic bombardment, preparation of vector-coated microcarriers, and basic gene gun operating procedures.
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6
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Jaishankar D, Cosgrove C, Ramesh P, Mahon J, Shivde R, Dellacecca ER, Yang SF, Mosenson J, Guevara-Patiño JA, Le Poole IC. HSP70i Q435A to subdue autoimmunity and support anti-tumor responses. Cell Stress Chaperones 2021; 26:845-857. [PMID: 34542825 PMCID: PMC8492854 DOI: 10.1007/s12192-021-01229-x] [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: 10/29/2020] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Developing immunosuppressive therapies for autoimmune diseases comes with a caveat that immunosuppression may promote the risk of developing other conditions or diseases. We have previously shown that biolistic delivery of an expression construct encoding inducible HSP70 (HSP70i) with one amino acid modification in the dendritic cell (DC) activating moiety 435-445 (HSP70iQ435A) to mouse skin resulted in significant immunosuppressive activity of autoimmune vitiligo, associated with fewer tissue infiltrating T cells. To prepare HSP70iQ435A as a potential therapeutic for autoimmune vitiligo, in this study we evaluated whether and how biolistic delivery of HSP70iQ435A in mice affects anti-tumor responses. We found that HSP70iQ435A in fact supports anti-tumor responses in melanoma-challenged C57BL/6 mice. Biolistic delivery of the HSP70iQ435A-encoding construct to mice elicited significant anti-HSP70 titers, and anti-HSP70 IgG and IgM antibodies recognize surface-expressed and cytoplasmic HSP70i in human and mouse melanoma cells. A peptide scan revealed that the anti-HSP70 antibodies recognize a specific C-terminal motif within the HSP70i protein. The antibodies elicited surface CD107A expression among mouse NK cells, representative of antibody-mediated cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC), supporting the concept, that HSP70iQ435A-encoding DNA elicits a humoral response to the stress protein expressed selectively on the surface of melanoma cells. Thus, besides limiting autoimmunity and inflammation, HSP70iQ435A elicits humoral responses that limit tumor growth and may be used in conjunction with immune checkpoint inhibitors to not only control tumor but to also limit adverse events following tumor immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dinesh Jaishankar
- Department of Dermatology & Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA.
- Department of Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA.
| | - Cormac Cosgrove
- Department of Dermatology & Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Prathyaya Ramesh
- Department of Dermatology & Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - James Mahon
- Cardinal Bernardin Cancer Center, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Rohan Shivde
- Department of Dermatology & Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Emilia R Dellacecca
- Department of Dermatology & Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Shiayin F Yang
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Loyola University Medical Center, Maywood, IL, USA
| | - Jeffrey Mosenson
- Cardinal Bernardin Cancer Center, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - José A Guevara-Patiño
- Department of Surgery, Loyola University Medical Center, Maywood, IL, USA
- Department of Immunology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - I Caroline Le Poole
- Department of Dermatology & Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA.
- Cardinal Bernardin Cancer Center, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA.
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7
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Wels M, Roels D, Raemdonck K, De Smedt SC, Sauvage F. Challenges and strategies for the delivery of biologics to the cornea. J Control Release 2021; 333:560-78. [PMID: 33857565 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2021.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Revised: 04/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Biologics, like peptides, proteins and nucleic acids, have proven to be promising drugs for the treatment of numerous diseases. However, besides the off label use of the monoclonal antibody bevacizumab for the treatment of corneal neovascularization, to date no other biologics for corneal diseases have reached the market. Indeed, delivering biologics in the eye remains a challenge, especially at the level of the cornea. While it appears to be a rather accessible tissue for the administration of drugs, the cornea in fact presents several anatomical barriers to delivery. In addition, also intracellular delivery barriers need to be overcome to achieve a promising therapeutic outcome with biologics. This review outlines efforts that have been reported to successfully deliver biologics into the cornea. Biochemical and physical methods for achieving delivery of biologics in the cornea are discussed, with a critical view on their efficacy in overcoming corneal barriers.
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8
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Schmoll M, Zeilinger S. Resistance Marker- and Gene Gun-Mediated Transformation of Trichoderma reesei. Methods Mol Biol 2021; 2234:55-62. [PMID: 33165778 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-1048-0_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Transformation enables the transfer of DNA into fungal cells for subsequent integration into the genome. Due to its versatility in industrial application, transformation is of utmost importance in Trichoderma reesei and hence continuously optimized. As one of the most crucial obstacles in fungal transformation efforts, removal of the cell wall is required to efficiently target genome modification cassettes to the genome. Here we describe resistance marker-mediated gene gun (biolistic) transformation of fungal spores of T. reesei as an alternative to protoplast transformation.
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9
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Ghogare R, Ludwig Y, Bueno GM, Slamet-Loedin IH, Dhingra A. Genome editing reagent delivery in plants. Transgenic Res 2021; 30:321-35. [PMID: 33728594 DOI: 10.1007/s11248-021-00239-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Accepted: 02/20/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Genome editing holds the potential for rapid crop improvement to meet the challenge of feeding the planet in a changing climate. The delivery of gene editing reagents into the plant cells has been dominated by plasmid vectors delivered using agrobacterium or particle bombardment. This approach involves the production of genetically engineered plants, which need to undergo regulatory approvals. There are various reagent delivery approaches available that have enabled the delivery of DNA-free editing reagents. They invariably involve the use of ribonucleoproteins (RNPs), especially in the case of CRISPR/Cas9-mediated gene editing. The explant of choice for most of the non-DNA approaches utilizes protoplasts as the recipient explant. While the editing efficiency is high in protoplasts, the ability to regenerate individual plants from edited protoplasts remains a challenge. There are various innovative delivery approaches being utilized to perform in planta edits that can be incorporated in the germline cells or inherited via seed. With the modification and adoption of various novel approaches currently being used in animal systems, it seems likely that non-transgenic genome editing will become routine in higher plants.
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10
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Ozyigit II, Yucebilgili Kurtoglu K. Particle bombardment technology and its applications in plants. Mol Biol Rep 2020; 47:9831-47. [PMID: 33222118 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-020-06001-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2020] [Accepted: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Particle bombardment, or biolistics, has emerged as an excellent alternative approach for plant genetic transformation which circumvents the limitations of Agrobacterium-mediated genetic transformation. The method has no biological constraints and can transform a wide range of plant species. Besides, it has been the most efficient way to achieve organelle transformation (for both chloroplasts and mitochondria) so far. Along with the recent advances in genome editing technologies, conventional gene delivery tools are now being repurposed to deliver targeted gene editing reagents into the plants. One of the key advantages is that the particle bombardment allows DNA-free gene editing of the genome. It enables the direct delivery of proteins, RNAs, and RNPs into plants. Owing to the versatility and wide-range applicability of the particle bombardment, it will likely remain one of the major genetic transformation methods in the future. This article provides an overview of the current status of particle bombardment technology and its applications in the field of plant research and biotechnology.
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11
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Wang K, Zhu H, McCaw M. Biolistic DNA Delivery in Maize Immature Embryos. Methods Mol Biol 2020; 2124:177-95. [PMID: 32277454 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-0356-7_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register]
Abstract
One of the key factors for ensuring a successful genetic transformation is to effectively introduce genetic materials, such as plasmid DNA, into plant cells. A biolistic gun is one of the two best established and most popular tools for delivery of DNA into maize cells. It is the method that generated the first fertile transgenic maize plant. In this chapter, we describe steps involved in introducing single or paired plasmid DNAs into immature embryos of maize Hi II hybrid genotype, using Biolistic® PDS-1000/He particle delivery system. While we focus on the biolistic delivery process in the protocol presented here, we also provide step-by-step information required for successful regeneration of transgenic maize plants.
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Zhou M, Zhao J, Li D, Yuan S, Yuan N, Li Z, Jia H, Gao F, San B, Hu Q, Luo H. Biolistic DNA Delivery in Turfgrass Embryonic Callus Initiated from Mature Seeds. Methods Mol Biol 2020; 2124:251-61. [PMID: 32277458 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-0356-7_13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register]
Abstract
We describe a protocol for the establishment and preparation of creeping bentgrass (Agrostis stolonifera L.) cultivar "Penn A-4" embryonic calli, biolistic transformation, selection, and regeneration of transgenic plants. The embryonic callus is initiated from mature seeds, maintained by visual selection under the dissecting microscope and subjected to bombardment with plasmid DNA containing a bialaphos-resistance (bar) gene. PCR, Southern, and Northern blot analyses are used to confirm the transgene integration and expression.
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Abstract
The following protocol describes the genetic transformation of wheat using the BioRad PDS/1000-He particle delivery system. Immature embryos are isolated 12-16 days post-anthesis, the embryonic axis is removed, and the immature scutella are precultured for 1-2 days prior to particle bombardment. Gold particles are coated with plasmid DNA containing the gene(s) of interest plus a selectable marker gene, in this instance bar (bialaphos resistance), and are fired into the cells to deliver the DNA. Subsequent tissue culture and regeneration steps allow recovery of plantlets, assisted by the inclusion of PPT (phosphinothricin tripeptide), the active ingredient of glufosinate-ammonium containing herbicides, to help select transformants. This updated method introduces selection earlier in the regeneration process which provides a shortened protocol while maintaining high transformation efficiencies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Angela Doherty
- Plant Sciences Department, Rothamsted Research, Hertfordshire, UK
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Abstract
Genetic improvement of rice is crucial to achieve global food security as rice is an important staple crop for more than half of the global population. One of the methodologies for genetic improvement is biolistic delivery of genetic components into plant cells. In this chapter, we describe steps involved in introducing plasmid DNA carrying gene of interest into rice mature embryos using Biolistic® PDS-1000/He particle delivery system. We also provide information required for recovery of transformed plants and production of transgenic seed for next generation analysis. Using this protocol, typical 50-70 putative independent transgenic callus lines can be generated from 100 bombarded embryos. Transgenic rice plantlets can be produced within 2 months after the initiation of seed germination for transformation.
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Allam MA, Saker MM. Microprojectile Bombardment Transformation of Date Palm Using the Insecticidal Cholesterol Oxidase (ChoA) Gene. Methods Mol Biol 2017; 1637:281-93. [PMID: 28755353 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-7156-5_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register]
Abstract
The overall objective of this work is to optimize the transformation system for date palm as a first step toward production of date palm clones resistant to noxious pests. A construct harboring the cholesterol oxidase (ChoA) gene, which renders plant resistance against insect attack, is introduced into embryogenic date palm callus using the PDS-1000/He particle bombardment system. The process involves the establishment of embryogenic callus cultures as well as immature embryo-derived microcalli that are used as target tissues for shooting and optimization of transformation conditions. This chapter in addition explains molecular and histochemical assays conducted to confirm gene integration and expression.
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16
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Hough LH, Brown ME. Labeling of neuronal morphology using custom diolistic techniques. J Neurosci Methods 2017; 282:43-51. [PMID: 28274738 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2017.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [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: 11/28/2016] [Revised: 03/01/2017] [Accepted: 03/03/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diolistic labeling is increasingly utilized in neuroscience as an efficient, reproducible method for visualization of neuronal morphology. The use of lipophilic carbocyanine dyes, combined with particle-mediated biolistic delivery allows for non-toxic fluorescent labeling of multiple neurons in both living and fixed tissue. Since first described, this labeling method has been modified to fit a variety of research goals and laboratory settings. NEW METHOD Diolistic labeling has traditionally relied on commercially available devices for the propulsion of coated micro-particles into tissue sections. Recently, laboratory built biolistic devices have been developed which allow for increased availability and customization. Here, we discuss a custom biolistic device and provide a detailed protocol for its use. RESULTS Using custom diolistic labeling we have characterized alterations in neuronal morphology of the lateral/dentate nucleus of the rat cerebellum. Comparisons were made in developing rat pups exposed to abnormally high levels of 5-methyloxytryptamine (5-MT) pre-and postnatally. Using quantitative software; dendritic morphology, architecture, and synaptic connections, were analyzed. COMPARISON WITH EXISTING METHOD(S) The rapid nature of custom diolistics coupled with passive diffusion of dyes and compatibility with confocal microscopy, provides an unparalleled opportunity to examine features of neuronal cells at high spatial resolution in a three-dimensional tissue environment. CONCLUSIONS While decreasing the associated costs, the laboratory-built device also overcomes many of the obstacles associated with traditional morphological labeling, to allow for reliable and reproducible neuronal labeling. The versatility of this method allows for its adaptation to a variety of laboratory settings and neuroscience related research goals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lyon H Hough
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Missouri State University, Springfield, MO 65897, USA.
| | - Michael E Brown
- Department of Pathology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
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Aps LRMM, Tavares MB, Rozenfeld JHK, Lamy MT, Ferreira LCS, Diniz MO. Bacterial spores as particulate carriers for gene gun delivery of plasmid DNA. J Biotechnol 2016; 228:58-66. [PMID: 27130499 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiotec.2016.04.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [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: 12/03/2015] [Revised: 04/11/2016] [Accepted: 04/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Bacillus subtilis spores represent a suitable platform for the adsorption of proteins, enzymes and viral particles at physiological conditions. In the present work, we demonstrate that purified spores can also adsorb DNA on their surface after treatment with cationic molecules. In addition, we demonstrate that DNA-coated B. subtilis spores can be used as particulate carriers and act as an alternative to gold microparticles for the biolistic (gene gun) administration of plasmid DNA in mice. Gene gun delivery of spores pre-treated with DODAB (dioctadecyldimethylammonium bromide) allowed efficient plasmid DNA absorption and induced protein expression levels similar to those obtained with gold microparticles. More importantly, we demonstrated that a DNA vaccine adsorbed on spores can be loaded into biolistic cartridges and efficiently delivered into mice, which induced specific cellular and antibody responses. Altogether, these data indicate that B. subtilis spores represent a simple and low cost alternative for the in vivo delivery of DNA vaccines by the gene gun technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luana R M M Aps
- Vaccine Development Laboratory, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Milene B Tavares
- Vaccine Development Laboratory, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - M Teresa Lamy
- Institute of Physics, University of São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Luís C S Ferreira
- Vaccine Development Laboratory, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mariana O Diniz
- Vaccine Development Laboratory, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
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Abstract
The transfection of vertebrate inner ear hair cells has proven to be challenging. Therefore, many laboratories attempt to use and improve different transfection methods. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages. A particular researcher's skills in addition to available equipment and the type of experiment (in vivo or in vitro) likely determine the transfection method of choice. Biolistic delivery of exogenous DNA, mRNA, or siRNA, also known as Helios(®) Gene Gun-mediated transfection, uses the mechanical energy of compressed helium gas to bombard tissue with micron- or submicron-sized DNA or RNA-coated gold particles, which can penetrate and transfect cells in vitro or in vivo. Helios(®) Gene Gun-mediated transfection has several advantages: (1) it is simple enough to learn in a short time; (2) it is designed to overcome cell barriers even as tough as plant cell membrane or stratum corneum in the epidermis; (3) it can transfect cells deep inside a tissue such as specific neurons within a brain slice; (4) it can accommodate mRNA, siRNA, or DNA practically of any size to be delivered; and (5) it works well with various cell types including non-dividing, terminally differentiated cells that are difficult to transfect, such as neurons or mammalian inner ear sensory hair cells. The latter advantage is particularly important for inner ear research. The disadvantages of this method are: (1) low efficiency of transfection due to many variables that have to be adjusted and (2) potential mechanical damage of the tissue if the biolistic shot parameters are not optimal. This chapter provides a step-by-step protocol and critical evaluation of the Bio-Rad Helios(®) Gene Gun transfection method used to deliver green fluorescent protein (GFP)-tagged full-length cDNAs of myosin 15a, whirlin, β-actin, and Clic5 into rodent hair cells of the postnatal inner ear sensory epithelia in culture.
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19
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Abstract
This chapter describes protocols for using a handheld gene gun to deliver transformation vectors for overexpression of genes or gene replacement in the macronucleus of Tetrahymena thermophila. The protocols provide helpful information for preparing Tetrahymena for biolistic bombardment, preparation of vector-coated microcarriers, and basic gene gun operating procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Gotesman
- Department of Biology, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Technion, Haifa, 3200003, Israel.
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20
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Abstract
DNA vaccines against infection with Plasmodium have been highly successful in rodent models of malaria and have shown promise in the very limited number of clinical trials conducted so far. The vaccine platform is highly attractive for numerous reasons, such as low cost and a very favorable safety profile. Gene gun delivery of DNA plasmids drastically reduces the vaccine dose and does not only have the potential to make vaccines more accessible and affordable, but also simplifies (a) the testing of novel antigens as vaccine candidates, (b) the testing of antigen combinations, and (c) the co-delivery of antigens with molecular adjuvants such as cytokines or costimulatory molecules. Described in this chapter are the preparation of the inoculum (i.e., DNA plasmids attached to gold particles, coating to the inside of plastic tubing also referred to as gene gun "bullets" or cartridges), the gene gun vaccination procedure, and the challenge of mice with Plasmodium berghei parasites to test the efficacy of the experimental vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elke S Bergmann-Leitner
- Malaria Vaccine Branch, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, MD, 20910, USA.
| | - Wolfgang W Leitner
- National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA.
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21
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Abstract
The key impediment to the successful application of gene therapy in clinics is not the paucity of therapeutic genes. It is rather the lack of nontoxic and efficient strategies to transfer therapeutic genes into target cells. Over the past few decades, considerable progress has been made in gene transfer technologies, and thus far, three different delivery systems have been developed with merits and demerits characterizing each system. Viral and chemical methods of gene transfer utilize specialized carrier to overcome membrane barrier and facilitate gene transfer into cells. Physical methods, on the other hand, utilize various forms of mechanical forces to enforce gene entry into cells. Starting in 1980s, physical methods have been introduced as alternatives to viral and chemical methods to overcome various extra- and intracellular barriers that limit the amount of DNA reaching the intended cells. Accumulating evidence suggests that it is quite feasible to directly translocate genes into cytoplasm or even nuclei of target cells by means of mechanical force, bypassing endocytosis, a common pathway for viral and nonviral vectors. Indeed, several methods have been developed, and the majority of them share the same underlying mechanism of gene transfer, i.e., physically created transient pores in cell membrane through which genes get into cells. Here, we provide an overview of the current status and future research directions in the field of physical methods of gene transfer.
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22
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Zhang D, Rielly CD, Das DB. Microneedle-assisted microparticle delivery by gene guns: experiments and modeling on the effects of particle characteristics. Drug Deliv 2014; 22:335-50. [PMID: 24524342 DOI: 10.3109/10717544.2014.887158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Microneedles (MNs) have been shown to enhance the penetration depths of microparticles delivered by gene gun. This study aims to investigate the penetration of model microparticle materials, namely, tungsten (<1 μm diameter) and stainless steel (18 and 30 μm diameters) into a skin mimicking agarose gel to determine the effects of particle characteristics (mainly particle size). A number of experiments have been processed to analyze the passage percentage and the penetration depth of these microparticles in relation to the operating pressures and MN lengths. A comparison between the stainless steel and tungsten microparticles has been discussed, e.g. passage percentage, penetration depth. The passage percentage of tungsten microparticles is found to be less than the stainless steel. It is worth mentioning that the tungsten microparticles present unfavourable results which show that they cannot penetrate into the skin mimicking agarose gel without the help of MN due to insufficient momentum due to the smaller particle size. This condition does not occur for stainless steel microparticles. In order to further understand the penetration of the microparticles, a mathematical model has been built based on the experimental set up. The penetration depth of the microparticles is analyzed in relation to the size, operating pressure and MN length for conditions that cannot be obtained in the experiments. In addition, the penetration depth difference between stainless steel and tungsten microparticles is studied using the developed model to further understand the effect of an increased particle density and size on the penetration depth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongwei Zhang
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Loughborough University , Loughborough , UK
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23
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Abstract
CONTEXT Gene guns have been used to deliver deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) loaded micro-particle and breach the muscle tissue to target cells of interest to achieve gene transfection. OBJECTIVE This article aims to discuss the potential of microneedle (MN) assisted micro-particle delivery from gene guns, with a view to reducing tissue damage. METHODS Using a range of sources, the main gene guns for micro-particle delivery are reviewed along with the primary features of their technology, e.g. their design configurations, the material selection of the micro-particle, the driving gas type and pressure. Depending on the gene gun system, the achieved penetration depths in the skin are discussed as a function of the gas pressure, the type of the gene gun system and particle size, velocity and density. The concept of MN-assisted micro-particles delivery which consists of three stages (namely, acceleration, separation and decoration stage) is discussed. In this method, solid MNs are inserted into the skin to penetrate the epidermis/dermis layer and create holes for particle injection. Several designs of MN array are discussed and the insertion mechanism is explored, as it determines the feasibility of the MN-based system for particle transfer. RESULTS This review suggests that one of the problems of gene guns is that they need high operating pressures, which may result in direct or indirect tissue/cells damage. MNs seem to be a promising method which if combined with the gene guns may reduce the operating pressures for these devices and reduce tissue/cell damages. CONCLUSIONS There is sufficient potential for MN-assisted particle delivery systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongwei Zhang
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Loughborough University , Loughborough, Leicestershire , UK
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24
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Rezvan H, Rees R, Ali SA. Leishmania mexicana Gp63 cDNA Using Gene Gun Induced Higher Immunity to L. mexicana Infection Compared to Soluble Leishmania Antigen in BALB/C. Iran J Parasitol 2011; 6:60-75. [PMID: 22347315 PMCID: PMC3279899] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2011] [Accepted: 10/23/2011] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Leishmaniasis is a worldwide disease prevalent in tropical and sub tropical countries. Many attempts have been made and different strategies have been approached to develop a potent vaccine against Leishmania. DNA immunisation is a method, which is shown to be effective in Leishmania vaccination. Leishmania Soluble Antigen (SLA) has also recently been used Leishmania vaccination. METHODS The immunity generated by SLA and L. mexicana gp63 cDNA was compared in groups of 6 mice, which were statistically analysed by student t- test with the P-value of 0.05. SLA was administered by two different methods; intramuscular injection and injection of dendritic cells (DCs) loaded with SLA. L. mexicana gp63 cDNA was administered by the gene gun. RESULTS Immunisation of BALB/c mice with L. mexicana gp63 resulted in high levels of Th1-type immune response and cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL) activity, which were accompanied with protection induced by the immunisation against L. mexicana infection. In contrast, administration of SLA, produced a mixed Th1/Th2-type immune responses as well as a high level of CTL activity but did not protect mice from the infection. CONCLUSION The results indicate higher protection by DNA immunisation using L. mexicana gp63 cDNA compared to SLA, which is accompanied by a high level of Th1 immune response. However, the CTL activity does not necessarily correlate with the protection induced by the vaccine. Also, gene gun immunisation is a potential approach in Leishmania vaccination. These findings would be helpful in opening new windows in Leishmania vaccine research.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Rezvan
- Department of Laboratory Science, School of Paraveterinary Sciences, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, Iran
,Corresponding author: Tel: 0811-4227350, Fax: 0811-4227475, E-mail:
| | - R Rees
- School of Science and Technology, Nottingham Trent University, Clifton, Nottingham, UK, NG11 8NS
| | - SA Ali
- School of Science and Technology, Nottingham Trent University, Clifton, Nottingham, UK, NG11 8NS
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25
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Abstract
AIM: To investigate the immunogenicity of a novel DNA vaccine, pSW3891/HBc, based on HBV core gene in Balb/c mice.
METHODS: A novel DNA vaccine, pSW3891/HBc, encoding HBV core gene was constructed using a vector plasmid pSW3891. Balb/c mice were immunized with either pSW3891/HBc or empty vector DNA via gene gun. IgG anti-HBc responses in mouse sera were demonstrated by ELISA. Specific cytotoxicity of cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) of mice was quantitatively measured by lactate dehydrogenase release assay.
RESULTS: HBcAg was expressed effectively in 293T cell line transiently transfected with pSW3891/HBc. Strong IgG anti-HBc responses were elicited in mice immunized with pSW3891/HBc. The end-point titers of anti-HBc reached the highest 1:97 200, 4 wk after the third immunization. The specific CTL killing with the highest specific lysis reached 73.25% at effector:target ratio of 20:1 in mice that received pSW3891/HBc DNA vaccine.
CONCLUSION: pSW3891/HBc vaccination elicits specific anti-HBc response and induces HBc-specific CTL response in immunized Balb/c mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Ping Xing
- Department of Infectious Diseases, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing 210029, Jiangsu Province, China.
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