Grant Award Details

Targeted Gene Editing in the Treatment of X-Linked Hyper-IgM Syndrome
Grant Type: 
Grant Number: 
DISC2-10124
Project Objective: 

  • To develop a gene-corrected HSC therapy for X-linked Hyper IgM Syndrome; will optimize and compare TALEN and CRISPR based approaches to select candidate for translation.

Investigator: 
Disease Focus: 
Blood Disorders
Hyper IgM Syndrome
Human Stem Cell Use: 
Adult Stem Cell
Award Value: 
$1,512,333
Status: 
Closed

Progress Reports

Reporting Period: 
Year 2/NCE

Grant Application Details

Application Title: 
  • Targeted Gene Editing in the Treatment of X-Linked Hyper-IgM Syndrome
Public Abstract: 

Research Objective

We are seeking to develop site-specific hematopoietic stem cell gene therapy with autologous transplant as a definitive treatment option for X-linked Hyper-IgM Syndrome.

Impact

These studies would bring stem cell gene therapy for X-HIGM closer to the clinic, as there are currently no options for those without an HLA match or with infections too severe for allogeneic HSCT.

Major Proposed Activities

  • Identify the optimal CRISPR gRNA, Cas9 variant, and cDNA donor template targeting the CD40L gene.
  • Compare TALENs and CRISPR/Cas9 targeting the CD40L gene in terms of their activity, specificity, and ability to allow homology-directed repair in CD34+ PBSC through short term cultures in vitro.
  • Evaluate methods to maximize gene editing and maintain HSC survival and pluripotency.
  • Evaluate the efficacy of optimized genome-editing reagents in hematopoietic stem cells long term in vitro in the artificial thymic organoid system and in vivo in NSG mice.
  • Assess gene editing of the CD40L gene of X-HIGM patient derived CD34+ cells using the optimal gene editing platform and reagents determined in Milestones 1-4.
Statement of Benefit to California: 

Safe, definitive therapies for X-HIGM represent an unmet medical need. Allogeneic stem cell transplant is frequently complicated by graft-versus-host disease and worsening of pre-existing infections. Successful demonstration that stem cell gene therapy can safely and effectively cure X-HIGM will shift the paradigm by which patients will be treated, led by California’s position as a leader in the field of gene therapy. This will result in improved patient care in the state and around the world.

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