In vivo selection of synthetic nucleocapsids for tissue targeting

Abstract

Controlling the biodistribution of protein- and nanoparticle-based therapeutic formulations remains challenging. In vivo library selection is an effective method for identifying constructs that exhibit desired distribution behavior; library variants can be selected based on their ability to localize to the tissue or compartment of interest despite complex physiological challenges. Here, we describe further development of an in vivo library selection platform based on self-assembling protein nanoparticles encapsulating their own mRNA genomes (synthetic nucleocapsids or synNCs). We tested two distinct libraries: a low-diversity library composed of synNC surface mutations (45 variants) and a high-diversity library composed of synNCs displaying miniproteins with binder-like properties (6.2 million variants). While we did not identify any variants from the low-diversity surface library that yielded therapeutically relevant changes in biodistribution, the high-diversity miniprotein display library yielded variants that shifted accumulation toward lungs or muscles in just two rounds of in vivo selection. Our approach should contribute to achieving specific tissue homing patterns and identifying targeting ligands for diseases of interest.

Organ- and Cell-Selective Delivery of mRNA In Vivo Using Guanidinylated Serinol Charge-Altering Releasable Transporters

“…7−10 In vivo library selection has also been used to identify targeting ligands that affect biodistribution. 11 "Corona effects", in which LNP surfaces are modified postadministration through association with ligands in the blood, have also effectively participated in organselective delivery (e.g., APOE for liver delivery). 12 More recently, and somewhat unexpectedly, "passive targeting", based on the intrinsic properties of LNP−mRNA complexes, has shown considerable promise for organ-selective delivery.…”

“…Toward this end, one strategy has been to decorate LNP surfaces with ligands that target specific cell surface receptors. This “active targeting” strategy has been shown to improve in vivo LNP–mRNA delivery to leukocytes, T lymphocytes, and cells in the brain when compared to LNPs without targeting ligands. − In vivo library selection has also been used to identify targeting ligands that affect biodistribution . “Corona effects”, in which LNP surfaces are modified postadministration through association with ligands in the blood, have also effectively participated in organ-selective delivery (e.g., APOE for liver delivery) .…”