Codon-Optimized SLC6A1 Transgene in rAAV Vectors

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current treatments lack effective solutions for neurological conditions associated with SLC6A1 gene loss or misfunction, such as seizures and intellectual disability, as existing therapies do not adequately address the underlying genetic defects.

Innovation Solution

Development of recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) vectors carrying a transgene sequence encoding for GAT1 polypeptides, which are designed to be delivered to treat or prevent diseases linked to SLC6A1 gene dysfunction, utilizing specific sequences and promoters for enhanced expression.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If existing therapies are used for SLC6A1-related disorders, then treatment options are limited, but they do not adequately address the underlying genetic defects

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveeffectiveness of treatmentVSAvoidability to address genetic defects
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses AAV vectors as intermediary carriers to deliver the SLC6A1 transgene to target cells. The AAV vector acts as a mediator between the therapeutic gene and the cellular machinery, enabling efficient delivery and expression of the functional SLC6A1 protein to correct the underlying genetic defect causing neurological disorders

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs codon optimization to change the nucleotide sequence parameters of the SLC6A1 transgene while maintaining the amino acid sequence. This parameter change at the DNA level enhances translation efficiency and protein expression levels, thereby improving therapeutic effectiveness without altering the functional protein product

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Productivity

If codon optimized nucleic acid sequences are used, then gene expression is significantly increased, but the complexity of vector design increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegene expression levelVSAvoidvector design complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies codon optimization by changing the nucleotide composition and codon usage frequency in the SLC6A1 transgene sequence. This parameter modification at the DNA level aligns the gene sequence with human codon preferences, enhancing translation efficiency and protein expression without altering the encoded amino acid sequence or protein function

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates an optimized copy of the SLC6A1 gene with improved codon usage patterns. This copied and modified transgene sequence maintains the same protein-coding information but incorporates enhanced nucleotide sequences that facilitate more efficient transcription and translation processes in human cells

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Data Source

PatentUS20240376498A1Transgene cassettes, AAV vectors and AAV viral vectors for the expression of human codon-optimized SLC6a1
Publication Date: 2024.11.14 BOARD OF RGT THE UNIV OF TEXAS SYST
  • US20240376498A1 patent drawing
  • US20240376498A1 patent drawing
  • US20240376498A1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure provides methods and compositions for the treatment of diseases and genetic disorders linked to SLC6A1 loss and/or misfunction. The methods and compositions of the present disclosure comprise rAAV vectors and rAAV viral vectors comprising transgene nucleic acid molecules comprising nucleic acid sequences encoding for a GAT1 polypeptide.