Adenovirus-mediated gene therapy for corneal clouding in mice with mucopolysaccharidosis type VII

Mol Ther. 2001 Oct;4(4):307-12. doi: 10.1006/mthe.2001.0461.

Abstract

Recent advances in systemic treatments for mucopolysaccharidosis have led to therapies that improve the multiple somatic features of this disease, but the therapeutic effect on ocular manifestations such as corneal clouding is not satisfactory. Here, we administered an adenovirus expressing human beta-glucuronidase (AxCAhGUS) into the anterior chamber or intrastromal region of the cornea in mice with mucopolysaccharidosis type VII (B6/MPSVII), and successfully treated corneal clouding of MPSVII. When we injected AxCAhGUS into the anterior chamber of the eyes, cells expressing beta-glucuronidase (GUSB) were located mainly in the trabecular meshwork as well as in all corneal regions, and subsequent pathological corrections in the cornea were achieved. Widespread transgene expression was also observed when we administered AxCAhGUS inside the cornea after lamellar keratotomy, and rapid elimination of the lysosomal storage in the corneal keratocytes occurred. Furthermore, intrastromal vector administration did not generate significant levels of anti-adenovirus neutralizing antibodies, and secondary vector administration was effective. Based on these observations, we conclude that it is worth developing a treatment strategy for corneal clouding in mucopolysaccharidosis based on direct intraocular administration of adenoviral vectors.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adenoviridae / genetics*
  • Adenoviridae / immunology
  • Animals
  • Anterior Chamber / metabolism
  • Antibodies / immunology
  • Cornea / metabolism
  • Cornea / pathology
  • Corneal Diseases / complications
  • Corneal Diseases / genetics*
  • Corneal Diseases / pathology
  • Corneal Diseases / therapy*
  • Gene Expression
  • Gene Transfer Techniques
  • Genetic Therapy / methods*
  • Genetic Vectors / administration & dosage
  • Genetic Vectors / genetics
  • Genetic Vectors / immunology
  • Glucuronidase / genetics
  • Glucuronidase / metabolism
  • Glucuronidase / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Mice
  • Mucopolysaccharidosis VII / complications*
  • Mucopolysaccharidosis VII / genetics
  • Neutralization Tests
  • Time Factors
  • Transgenes / genetics

Substances

  • Antibodies
  • Glucuronidase