Sangamo's ZFN-binding drug blocks HIV infection in harvested T-cells

California, USA-based Sangamo BioSciences, a developer of gene therapeutics, says that its developmental zinc-finger DNA-binding protein protects human T-cells from HIV infection. The firm explained that its ZFP nuclease technology can make T-cells resistant to HIV by altering the DNA sequence encoding the CCR5 cell-surface protein, which is an essential co-receptor for viral entry.

Studies conducted by the firm in collaboration with Carl June, director of translational research at the Abramson Family Center in Pennsylvania, treated isolated T-cells with ZFNs specific for the CCR5 gene. These cells were then implanted into the NOG mouse model. Analysis after 33 days revealed that the proportion of modified cells present was significantly higher in mice exposed to HIV. The researchers concluded that ZFN-treated cells have a selective advantage when exposed to the virus.

Sangamo said that, based on the published findings, it plans to initiate a Phase I trial of ZFN agents before the end of the year.