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Results at 5 Years After Gene Therapy for RPE65-Deficient Retinal Dystrophy.
Pennesi, ME, Weleber, RG, Yang, P, Whitebirch, C, Thean, B, Flotte, TR, Humphries, M, Chegarnov, E, Beasley, KN, Stout, JT, et al
Human gene therapy. 2018;(12):1428-1437
Abstract
Previously, results at 2 years after subretinal injection of a recombinant adeno-associated virus vector expressing RPE65 (rAAV2-CB-hRPE65) in eight adults and four children with retinal degeneration caused by RPE65 mutations were reported. Now, results at 5 years after treatment in 11 of these subjects are reported. Subjects received a subretinal injection of rAAV2-CB-hRPE65 in the poorer-seeing eye, at either of two dose levels, and were followed for 5 years after treatment. The primary safety outcomes were ocular and non-ocular adverse events. Efficacy outcomes included changes in best corrected visual acuity, static perimetry hill of vision measurements for the central 30° (V30), and total (VTOT) visual field and kinetic perimetry visual field area. The only adverse events reported during years 3, 4, and 5 were minor intercurrent illnesses. Pediatric subjects had improvement in visual acuity and static perimetry in the treated eye, sometimes with a smaller improvement in the untreated eye, during the first 2 years of the study that persisted during years 3-5, with no consistent changes in kinetic perimetry during the study. Most adult subjects had no consistent changes in visual acuity or static perimetry during the study. Three adult subjects with markedly abnormal baseline kinetic visual field area had improvement in the treated eye during the first 1-2 years after treatment, but the absolute magnitude of the improvement was small and was not sustained at subsequent visits. There were no clinically significant adverse events. Visual acuity and static perimetry testing results suggest that treating patients at a younger age is associated with better visual function outcomes during 5 years after treatment.
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Molecular aspects of hypercholesterolemia treatment: current perspectives and hopes.
Ahangari, N, Ghayour Mobarhan, M, Sahebkar, A, Pasdar, A
Annals of medicine. 2018;(4):303-311
Abstract
Hypercholesterolemia is a pathological condition which has been reported in 39% of the worlds' adult population. We aimed to review molecular aspects of current and novel therapeutic approaches based on low-density lipoprotein cholesterol lowering strategies. Pathogenic mutations in the LDLR, ApoB, PCSK9 and LDLRAP genes cause deficient clearance of circulating low-density lipoprotein cholesterol particles via hepatic LDL receptor. This leads to increased plasma LDL cholesterol levels from birth, which can cause LDL depositions in the arterial walls. Ultimately, it progresses to atherosclerosis and an increased risk of premature cardiovascular diseases. Currently, statins, Ezetimibe, Bile acid sequestrants and PCSK9 inhibitors are the main therapeutic agents for the treatment of hypercholesterolemia. Moreover, novel RNA-based therapy had a strong impact on therapeutic strategies in recent decades. Additional development in understanding of the molecular basis of hypercholesterolemia will provide opportunities for the development of targeted therapy in the near future. Key Messages The most common genes involved in hypercholesterolemia are LDLR, PCSK9 and ApoB. Pharmacogenetic effects are typically constrained to pathways closely related to the pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics. Change in lifestyle and diet along with treatment of the underlying disease and drug therapy are the current therapeutic strategies.
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Treating pancreatic cancer: more antioxidants more problems?
Alexander, MS, Cullen, JJ
Expert review of gastroenterology & hepatology. 2018;(9):849-851
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Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9: from genetics to clinical trials.
Stoekenbroek, RM, Kastelein, JJP
Current opinion in cardiology. 2018;(3):269-275
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review describes the pivotal role of genetic insights and technologies in the discovery of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) and the rapid development of PCSK9 inhibitors - a revolutionary new class of lipid-lowering agents. RECENT FINDINGS PCSK9 was discovered as a the third gene implicated in familial hypercholesterolemia. Population genetics studies, enabled by technological advances, were instrumental in validating PCSK9 as a therapeutic target. Monoclonal antibodies against PCSK9 were introduced in the clinic after an unprecedently rapid development path, in which clinical trial results confirmed that these drugs robustly lower cholesterol and improve clinical outcomes regardless of disease indication or background therapy. New strategies to PCSK9 inhibition are underway and have delivered promising preliminary results, including inhibition of PCSK9 synthesis by targeting the cellular gene expression machinery and vaccination. The future will tell whether directly targeting the genome through editing techniques will ultimately enable us to virtually eliminate many of the traditional CVD risk factors. SUMMARY The extraordinary PCSK9 narrative highlights the opportunities offered by genetics-driven drug development and holds valuable lessons for future development programs.
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5.
Congenital X-Linked Retinoschisis: An Updated Clinical Review.
Rao, P, Dedania, VS, Drenser, KA
Asia-Pacific journal of ophthalmology (Philadelphia, Pa.). 2018;(3):169-175
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Abstract
We present an updated clinical review of the pathophysiology, progression, and current treatments in pediatric patients with congenital X-linked retinoschisis (CXLRS). CXLRS is an X-linked inherited retinal degeneration characterized by splitting of the superficial layers of the retina. Most recent classification divides CXLRS into 4 distinct clinical phenotypes: type 1, foveal; type 2, foveolamellar; type 3, complex; and type 4, foveoperipheral. The majority of retinoschisis cavities remain stable throughout life and may spontaneously collapse. However, a select number of patients progress to macula-involving peripheral retinoschisis, rhegmatogenous, and combined tractional-rhegmatogenous detachments that require further intervention. Although several advances have been made over the past several decades, medical therapy remains limited to case series‒based carbonic anhydrase therapy and prophylactic laser retinopexy. Recent advances in genetic-based clinical trials with the retinoschisis gene are promising. Vitreoretinal surgical approaches remain complex, case-based, and require careful planning depending on the configuration and location of the retinoschisis cavity.
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6.
Retinal AAV8-RS1 Gene Therapy for X-Linked Retinoschisis: Initial Findings from a Phase I/IIa Trial by Intravitreal Delivery.
Cukras, C, Wiley, HE, Jeffrey, BG, Sen, HN, Turriff, A, Zeng, Y, Vijayasarathy, C, Marangoni, D, Ziccardi, L, Kjellstrom, S, et al
Molecular therapy : the journal of the American Society of Gene Therapy. 2018;(9):2282-2294
Abstract
This study evaluated the safety and tolerability of ocular RS1 adeno-associated virus (AAV8-RS1) gene augmentation therapy to the retina of participants with X-linked retinoschisis (XLRS). XLRS is a monogenic trait affecting only males, caused by mutations in the RS1 gene. Retinoschisin protein is secreted principally in the outer retina, and its absence results in retinal cavities, synaptic dysfunction, reduced visual acuity, and susceptibility to retinal detachment. This phase I/IIa single-center, prospective, open-label, three-dose-escalation clinical trial administered vector to nine participants with pathogenic RS1 mutations. The eye of each participant with worse acuity (≤63 letters; Snellen 20/63) received the AAV8-RS1 gene vector by intravitreal injection. Three participants were assigned to each of three dosage groups: 1e9 vector genomes (vg)/eye, 1e10 vg/eye, and 1e11 vg/eye. The investigational product was generally well tolerated in all but one individual. Ocular events included dose-related inflammation that resolved with topical and oral corticosteroids. Systemic antibodies against AAV8 increased in a dose-related fashion, but no antibodies against RS1 were observed. Retinal cavities closed transiently in one participant. Additional doses and immunosuppressive regimens are being explored to pursue evidence of safety and efficacy (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02317887).
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Current and Emerging Treatment Modalities for Leber's Hereditary Optic Neuropathy: A Review of the Literature.
Theodorou-Kanakari, A, Karampitianis, S, Karageorgou, V, Kampourelli, E, Kapasakis, E, Theodossiadis, P, Chatziralli, I
Advances in therapy. 2018;(10):1510-1518
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION The purpose of this review is to present the current and emerging treatment alternatives for Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON), emphasizing the most recent use of idebenone and stem cells or gene therapy. METHODS A comprehensive literature review was performed at the PubMed database regarding the various treatment modalities for LHON. RESULTS Treatment modalities for LHON include nutritional supplements, activators of mitochondrial biogenesis, brimonidine, and symptomatic and supportive treatment, but nowadays attention is being paid to idebenone and gene therapy or stem cells. CONCLUSION The treatment of LHON remains challenging, given the nature of the disease and its prognosis.
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Understanding the molecular biology of intervertebral disc degeneration and potential gene therapy strategies for regeneration: a review.
Sampara, P, Banala, RR, Vemuri, SK, Av, GR, Gpv, S
Gene therapy. 2018;(2):67-82
Abstract
Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) is a multi-factorial process characterized by phenotypic and genotypic changes, which leads to low back pain and disability. Prolonged imbalance between anabolism and catabolism in discs alters their composition resulting in progressive loss of proteoglycans and hydration leading to IVDD. The current managements for IVDD are only able to relieve the symptoms but do not address the underlying pathology of degeneration. Researchers have tried to find out differences between the aging and degeneration of the disc. Intense attempts are in progress for identifying the various factors responsible for disc degeneration, as well as strategies for regeneration. Recently biological approaches have gained thrust in the field of IVDD. The present review illustrates the current understanding of intervertebral disc degeneration and aims to put forth recent advancements in regeneration strategies involving different biological therapies such as growth factor, cell, and gene therapy. The potentials and consequences of these therapies are also extensively discussed along with citing the most suitable method, that is, the gene therapy in detail. Initially, gene therapy was mediated by viral vectors but recent progress has enabled researchers to opt for non-virus-mediated gene therapy methods, which ensure that there are no risks of mutagenicity and infection in target cells. With constant efforts, non-virus-mediated gene therapy may prove to be an extremely powerful tool in treatment of IVDD in future.
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Targeting Alzheimer's disease with gene and cell therapies.
Loera-Valencia, R, Piras, A, Ismail, MAM, Manchanda, S, Eyjolfsdottir, H, Saido, TC, Johansson, J, Eriksdotter, M, Winblad, B, Nilsson, P
Journal of internal medicine. 2018;(1):2-36
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Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) causes dementia in both young and old people affecting more than 40 million people worldwide. The two neuropathological hallmarks of the disease, amyloid beta (Aβ) plaques and neurofibrillary tangles consisting of protein tau are considered the major contributors to the disease. However, a more complete picture reveals significant neurodegeneration and decreased cell survival, neuroinflammation, changes in protein and energy homeostasis and alterations in lipid and cholesterol metabolism. In addition, gene and cell therapies for severe neurodegenerative disorders have recently improved technically in terms of safety and efficiency and have translated to the clinic showing encouraging results. Here, we review broadly current data within the field for potential targets that could modify AD through gene and cell therapy strategies. We envision that not only Aβ will be targeted in a disease-modifying treatment strategy but rather that a combination of treatments, possibly at different intervention times may prove beneficial in curing this devastating disease. These include decreased tau pathology, neuronal growth factors to support neurons and modulation of neuroinflammation for an appropriate immune response. Furthermore, cell based therapies may represent potential strategies in the future.
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10.
Biophysical Derangements in Genetic Cardiomyopathies.
Lynn, ML, Lehman, SJ, Tardiff, JC
Heart failure clinics. 2018;(2):147-159
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Abstract
This article focuses on three "bins" that comprise sets of biophysical derangements elicited by cardiomyopathy-associated mutations in the myofilament. Current therapies focus on symptom palliation and do not address the disease at its core. We and others have proposed that a more nuanced classification could lead to direct interventions based on early dysregulation changing the trajectory of disease progression in the preclinical cohort. Continued research is necessary to address the complexity of cardiomyopathic progression and develop efficacious therapeutics.