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Published on: June 2, 2021
Gene Therapy in Crohn's Disease: Current Preclinical Challenges and Future Translational Avenues
Solafah Abdalla1,2, Antoine Brouquet1,2, Romina Aron-Badin3
1Service de Chirurgie Viscérale et Oncologique, Hôpital de Bicêtre, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, 94270 Paris, France.
Abstract:
Crohn's disease (CD) remains a highly complex disorder, and the progress of preclinical gene therapy for CD has been constrained by several significant challenges. These include the identification of optimal therapeutic gene targets, the difficulty of targeting therapy-resistant cells within a chronic inflammatory microenvironment, particularly in the enteric nervous system (ENS), and the lack of robust animal models that faithfully recapitulate human pathology, as classical models largely rely on toxin-induced colitis. This review synthesizes major preclinical studies on gene therapy for CD and related inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). We critically assess the rationale and biodistribution data for different vector platforms, considering vector type, promoter, and route of administration, in the ileum and colon of both rodent and non-human primate models. Special attention is given to strategies targeting the ENS. Finally, we explore the putative therapeutic aims of these approaches, including direct attenuation of intestinal inflammation and prevention of postoperative recurrence of CD via local intraoperative gene delivery. Although most data derive from chemical colitis models, this review establishes a foundational framework to inform translational research in gene therapy for CD and other IBDs.
Insights
Preclinical gene therapy for Crohn
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Molecular Therapy
- Immunology
Background:
- Crohn's disease (CD) is a complex inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) with limited effective treatments.
- Preclinical gene therapy for CD faces challenges in target identification, delivery to resistant cells, and suitable animal models.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and critically assess preclinical gene therapy studies for Crohn's disease and related IBDs.
- To evaluate vector platforms, biodistribution, and therapeutic strategies, with a focus on the enteric nervous system (ENS).
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of preclinical gene therapy studies for CD and IBD.
- Analysis of vector types, promoters, and administration routes in rodent and non-human primate models.
- Assessment of strategies targeting the ENS and therapeutic aims.
Main Results:
- Gene therapy approaches show potential for attenuating intestinal inflammation and preventing CD recurrence.
- Biodistribution and efficacy data vary significantly based on vector platform and delivery method.
- Targeting the ENS presents unique challenges and opportunities for CD treatment.
Conclusions:
- A foundational framework is established to guide translational research in gene therapy for CD and IBD.
- Further development of robust models and targeted delivery systems is crucial for clinical translation.
- Gene therapy offers promising avenues for managing intestinal inflammation and postoperative recurrence in CD.
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