SEQUENCE LISTING

The instant application contains a Sequence Listing which has been submitted in ASCII format via EFS-Web and is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Said ASCII copy, created on Apr. 30, 2018, is named 370908-3006US2_New_SequeceListing.TXT and is 1498 kilobytes in size.

The present disclosure relates to a modified adenovirus, for example armed with at least one transgene including a therapeutic and/or reporter transgene, in particular a group B virus, such as a serotype 11 adenovirus or a chimeric virus with the fibre, penton and hexon of Ad11, a composition, such as a pharmaceutical formulation comprising the virus, use of the virus and virus formulations, particularly in treatment, especially in the treatment of cancer. The disclosure also extends to processes for preparing the virus.

BACKGROUND

Replication deficient adenoviruses vectors have been investigated for a number of years for the delivery of transgenes. Mostly the genes have been inserted in the E1 region and/or the E3 region because these regions of the viral genome are non-essential for vectors.

Surprisingly relatively little work has been done on alternative locations for inserting transgenes in the adenovirus genome. In addition most of the work has been performed in Ad5.

A new generation of replication competent oncolytic adenoviruses is currently in the clinic. These viruses do not require complementing cell lines to replicate. E1 is an essential region to viral replication and whilst the E3 region in theory can be used as a location to insert a transgene, it would be useful to be able to insert a transgene in more than this location. However, care has to be taken not to disrupt the virus life cycle and/or advantageous viral properties, such as the therapeutic properties of the virus.

Enadenotucirev (EnAd) is a chimeric oncolytic adenovirus, formerly known as EnAd (WO2005/118825), with fibre, penton and hexon from Ad11p, hence it is a subgroup B virus. It has a chimeric E2B region, which comprises DNA from Ad11p and Ad3. Almost all of the E3 region and part of the E4 region is deleted in EnAd. Therefore, it has significant space in the genome to accommodate additional genetic material whilst remaining viable. Furthermore, because EnAd is a subgroup B adenovirus, pre-existing immunity in humans is less common than, for example, Ad5. Other examples of chimeric oncolytic viruses with Ad11 fibre, penton and hexon include OvAd1 and OvAd2 (see WO2006/060314).

EnAd seems to preferentially infect tumour cells, replicates rapidly in these cells and causes cell lysis. This, in turn, can generate inflammatory immune responses thereby stimulating the body to also fight the cancer. Part of the success of EnAd is hypothesised to be related to the fast replication of the virus in vivo.

Whilst EnAd selectively lyses tumour cells, it may be possible to introduce further beneficial properties, for example increasing the therapeutic activity of the virus or reducing side-effects of the virus by arming it with transgenes, such as a transgene which encodes a cell signalling protein or an antibody, or a transgene which encodes an entity which stimulates a cell signalling protein(s).

Advantageously arming a virus, with DNA encoding certain proteins that can be expressed inside the cancer cell, may enable the body's own defences to be employed to combat tumour cells more effectively, for example by making the cells more visible to the immune system or by delivering a therapeutic gene/protein preferentially to target tumour cells.

Furthermore, the ability to insert transgenes that are reporters into the genome can aid clinical or pre-clinical studies.

It is important that expression of the transgenes does not adversely affect the replication or other advantageous properties of the virus. Thus, the gene or genes must be inserted in a location that does not compromise the replication competence and other advantageous properties of the virus. In addition, the genome of adenoviruses is tightly packed and therefore it can be difficult to find a suitable location to insert transgenes. This also limits the size of transgenes that can be accommodated.

In therapeutic products it is important to control precisely the characteristics of the active agent, so it is well characterised and can reproducibly be prepared. Prior art systems using randomly inserting transposons are not well suited for use in pharmaceutical products because the transgene inserts randomly into the virus genome and the site of insertion may be influenced by the transgene itself. It can also be difficult to replace genes inserted by the transposon with alternative genes.

Thus it is desirable to develop a robust and repeatable means of generating armed adenoviruses, which is tolerant to a wide variety of transgenes.

The present inventors have developed a method of arming an adenovirus suitable for accommodating a wide variety of transgenes under the control of an endogenous or exogenous promoter that results in a viable, stable, recoverable virus which expresses the transgene in tumour cells. The method is robust and repeatable and can be strictly controllable.

The transgene is located in the proximity of (adjacent to) the gene encoding the fibre protein, either at the 5′ end and/or the 3′ end of the gene, which does not adversely affect the stability of the virus.

The present inventors have established that complicated proteins in the form of antibodies or antibody fragments and cell signalling proteins can be inserted in this location in the genome of adenoviruses, for example group B viruses, such as Ad11 and Ad11-derived viruses, and successfully expressed, for example under the control of the endogenous E4 or major late promoter, such that the protein is expressed and the replication of the virus is not compromised.

A plasmid developed by the present inventors provides novel restriction sites in the adenovirus genome which can be utilised for insertion of transgene cassettes near to the L5 (fibre) gene to provide viruses of the present disclosure. Alternatively, plasmids containing transgenes or transgene cassettes at these insertion site positions can be directly fully synthesized without a cloning step and thus without a need to use the restriction sites.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

The present disclosure provides an adenovirus comprising a genome comprising the sequence of formula (I):
5′ITR-B1-BA-B2-BX-BB-BY-B3-3′ITR  (I)
wherein:B1is a bond or comprises: E1A, E1B or E1A-E1B;BAis E2B-L1-L2-L3-E2A-L4;B2is a bond or comprises E3;BXis a bond or a DNA sequence comprising: a restriction site, one or more transgenes or both;BBcomprises L5;BYis a bond or a DNA sequence comprising: a restriction site, one or more transgenes or both;B3is a bond or comprises E4;
wherein at least one of BXand BYis not a bond, for example at least one of BXand BYcomprises a transgene, a restriction site or both, such as a transgene.

In one embodiment BXcomprises a restriction site, for example 1, 2, 3 or 4 restriction sites, such as 1 or 2. In one embodiment BXcomprises at least one transgene, for example 1 or 2 transgenes. In one embodiment BXcomprises at least one transgene, for example 1 or 2 transgenes and one or more restriction sites, for example 2 or 3 restriction sites, in particular where the restrict sites sandwich a gene or the DNA sequence comprising the genes to allow it/them to be specifically excised from the genome and/or replaced. Alternatively, the restriction sites may sandwich each gene, for example when there are two transgenes three different restriction sites are required to ensure that the genes can be selectively excised and/or replaced. In one embodiment one or more, for example all the transgenes are in the form a transgene cassette. In one embodiment BXcomprises SEQ ID NO: 10. In one embodiment SEQ ID NO: 10 is interrupted, for example by a transgene. In embodiment SEQ ID NO: 10 is uninterrupted. In one embodiment BXdoes not comprise a restriction site. In one embodiment BXis a bond. In one embodiment Bx comprises or consists of one or more transgenes.

In one embodiment BYcomprises a restriction site, for example 1, 2, 3 or 4 restriction sites, such as 1 or 2. In one embodiment BYcomprises at least one transgene, for example 1 or 2 transgenes. In one embodiment BYcomprises at least one transgene, for example 1 or 2 transgenes and one or more restriction sites, for example 2 or 3 restriction sites, in particular where the restrict sites sandwich a gene or the DNA sequence comprising the genes to allow it/them to be specifically excised from the genome and/or replaced. Alternatively the restriction sites may sandwich each gene, for example when there are two transgenes three different restriction sites are required to ensure that the genes can be selectively excised and/or replaced. In one embodiment one or more, for example all the transgenes are in the form a transgene cassette. In one embodiment BYcomprises SEQ ID NO: 11. In one embodiment SEQ ID NO: 11 is interrupted, for example by a transgene. In embodiment SEQ ID NO: 11 is uninterrupted. In one embodiment BYdoes not comprise a restriction site. In one embodiment BYis a bond. In one embodiment BYcomprises or consists of one or more transgenes.

In one embodiment BXand BYeach comprises a restriction site, for example 1, 2, 3 or 4 restriction sites, such as 1 or 2. In one embodiment BXand BYeach comprises at least one transgene, for example 1 or 2 transgenes. In one embodiment BXand BYeach comprises at least one transgene, for example 1 or 2 transgenes and one or more restriction sites, for example 2 or 3 restriction sites, in particular where the restriction sites sandwich a gene or the DNA sequence comprising the genes to allow it to be specifically excised from the genome and/or replaced. Alternatively the restriction sites may sandwich each gene, for example when there are two transgenes three different restriction sites are required to ensure that the genes can be selectively excised and/or replaced. In one embodiment one or more, for example all the transgenes are in the form a transgene cassette. In one embodiment BXand BYcomprises SEQ ID NO: 10 and SEQ ID NO: 11 respectively. In one embodiment BXand BYdo not comprise a restriction site. In one embodiment BXis a bond and BYis not a bond. In one embodiment BYis a bond and BXis not a bond.

In one embodiment the transgene is located in BXIn one embodiment the transgene or transgene cassette is located in BY. In one embodiment a transgene or transgene cassette is located in BXand BY, for example the transgenes may be the same or different, in each location.

Advantageously, the transgene in the present virus constructs is/are inserted in a location that is removed from the early genes because this reduces the likelihood of affecting virus gene expression or speed of replication.

In one independent aspect there is provided a replication competent oncolytic adenovirus of serotype 11 or virus-derivative thereof wherein the fibre, hexon and capsid are serotype 11, wherein the virus genome comprises a DNA sequence encoding a therapeutic antibody or antibody-binding fragment, said DNA sequence under the control of a promoter endogenous to the adenovirus selected from consisting of E4 and the major late promoter, such that the transgene does not interfere with virus replication, for example wherein the DNA sequence encoding the therapeutic antibody or antibody-binding fragment is under the control of the E4 promoter or alternatively under the control of the major late promoter, in particular wherein the DNA sequence encoding an antibody or antibody-binding fragment in located after L5 in the virus genome sequence (i.e. towards the 3′ end of the virus sequence). Advantageously using an endogenous promoter maximises the amount of space available for inserting transgenes.

Advantageously, when under the control of these promoters the virus remains replication competent and is also able to express the antibody as a full length antibody or a suitable binding fragment or other protein. Thus the antibody or other protein of choice will be expressed by the cancer cell. Employing an endogenous promoter may be advantageous because it reduces the size of the transgene cassette that needs to be incorporated to express the antibody, fragment or other protein, i.e. the cassette can be smaller because no exogenous promoter needs to be included.

Employing an endogenous promoter in the virus may also be advantageous in a therapeutic context because the transgene is only expressed when the virus is replicating as opposed to a constitutive exogenous promoter which will continually transcribe the transgene and may lead to an inappropriate concentration of the antibody or fragment.

In one embodiment expression of the antibody or fragment is under the control of the major late promoter.

In one embodiment the expression of the antibody or fragment is under the control of the E4 promoter.

In one independent aspect there is provided a replication competent oncolytic adenovirus of serotype 11 or virus-derivative thereof wherein the fibre, hexon and capsid are serotype 11, wherein the virus genome comprises a DNA sequence encoding a therapeutic antibody or antibody-binding fragment located in a part of the virus genome which is expressed late in the virus replication cycle and such that the transgene does not interfere with virus replication, wherein said DNA sequence under the control of a promoter exogenous to the adenovirus, for example wherein the DNA sequence encoding the therapeutic antibody or antibody-binding fragment is under the control of the CMV promoter, in particular the DNA sequence encoding an antibody or antibody-binding fragment is located after L5 in the virus genome sequence (i.e. towards the end of the 3′ end of the virus sequence).

Employing an exogenous promoter may be advantageous because it can strongly and constitutively express the antibody or fragment, which may be particularly useful in some situations, for example where the patient has very pervasive cancer.

In one embodiment expression of the antibody or fragment is under the control of a CMV promoter.

In one embodiment the exogenous promoter is associated with this DNA sequence, for example is part of the expression cassette encoding the antibody or fragment.

In one embodiment the DNA sequence encoding the antibody or fragment is located after the L5 gene in the virus sequence. Advantageously, the present inventors have established that a variety of transgenes can be inserted into BXand/or BYunder the control of an exogenous or endogenous promoter, without adversely affecting the life cycle of the virus or the stability of the vector.

In one embodiment the transgene is part of a transgene cassette comprising at least one coding sequence (i.e. at least one transgene) and optionally one or more elements independently selected from:i. a regulator of gene expression, such as an exogenous promoter or splice acceptor;ii. an internal ribosome entry (IRES) DNA sequence;iii. a DNA sequence encoding a high self-cleavage efficiency 2A peptide;iv. a DNA sequence encoding a polyadenylation sequence, andv. combinations of the same.

Thus in one embodiment the transgene cassette comprises i) or ii) or iii) or iv).

In one embodiment the transgene cassette comprises i) and ii), or i) and iii), or i) and iv), or ii) and iii), or ii) and iv), or iii) and iv).

In one embodiment the transgene cassette comprises i) and ii) and iii), or i) and ii) and iv), or i) and iii) and iv), or ii) and iii) and iv).

In one embodiment the transgene cassette comprises i) and ii) and iii) and iv).

In one embodiment the transgene or transgene cassette comprises a Kozak sequence, which assists in the translation of mRNA, for example at the start of a protein coding sequence.

In one embodiment the virus is replication competent.

In one embodiment the virus is replication deficient, i.e. is a vector.

Also provided is a composition comprising a virus or vector according to the present disclosure, in particular a pharmaceutical composition, for example comprising an adenovirus according to the disclosure and a pharmaceutically acceptable excipient.

The present disclosure further relates to an adenovirus or composition according to the disclosure for use in treatment, for example for use in the treatment of cancer.

The disclosure also relates to a method of treatment comprising administering a therapeutically effective amount of a virus as described herein or a composition comprising the same to a patient in need thereof, in particular a human patient.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Transgene as employed herein refers to a gene that has been inserted into the genome sequence, which is a gene that is unnatural to the virus (exogenous) or not normally found in that particular location in the virus. Examples of transgenes are given below. Transgene as employed herein also includes a functional fragment of the gene that is a portion of the gene which when inserted is suitable to perform the function or most of the function of the full-length gene.

Transgene and coding sequence are used interchangeably herein in the context of inserts into the viral genome, unless the context indicates otherwise. Coding sequence as employed herein means, for example a DNA sequence encoding a functional RNA, peptide, polypeptide or protein. Typically the coding sequence is cDNA for the transgene that encodes the functional RNA, peptide, polypeptide or protein of interest. Functional RNA, peptides, polypeptide and proteins of interest are described below.

Clearly the virus genome contains coding sequences of DNA. Endogenous (naturally occurring genes) in the genomic sequence of the virus are not considered a transgene, within the context of the present specification unless then have been modified by recombinant techniques such as that they are in a non-natural location or in a non-natural environment.

In one embodiment transgene as employed herein refers to a segment of DNA containing a gene or cDNA sequence that has been isolated from one organism and is introduced into a different organism i.e. the virus of the present disclosure. In one embodiment this non-native segment of DNA may retain the ability to produce functional RNA, peptide, polypeptide or protein.

Thus in one embodiment the transgene inserted encodes a human or humanised protein, polypeptide or peptide.

In one embodiment the transgene inserted encodes a non-human protein, polypeptide or peptide (such as a non-human mammalian protein, polypeptide or peptide) or RNA molecule, for example from a mouse, rat, rabbit, camel, llama or similar. Advantageously, the viruses of the present disclosure allow the transgenes to be transported inside the cancerous cell. Thus, responses generated by the human patient to a non-human sequence (such as a protein) can be minimised by this intra-cellular deliver

A DNA sequence may comprise more than one transgene, for example, 1, 2, 3 or 4 transgenes, such as 1 or 2.

A transgene cassette may comprise more than one transgene, for example, 1, 2, 3 or 4 transgenes, such as 1 or 2.

In one or more embodiments the cassette is arranged as shown in the one or more of the Figures or the examples.

Transgene cassette as employed herein refers to a DNA sequence encoding one or more transgenes in the form of one or more coding sequences and one or more regulatory elements.

A transgene cassette may encode one or more monocistronic and/or polycistronic mRNA sequences.

In one embodiment the transgene or transgene cassette encodes a monocistronic or polycistronic mRNA, and for example the cassette is suitable for insertion into the adenovirus genome at a location under the control of an endogenous promoter or exogenous promoter or a combination thereof.

Monocistronic mRNA as employed herein refers to an mRNA molecule encoding a single functional RNA, peptide, polypeptide or protein.

In one embodiment the transgene cassette encodes monocistronic mRNA.

In one embodiment the transgene cassette in the context of a cassette encoding monocistronic mRNA means a segment of DNA optionally containing an exogenous promoter (which is a regulatory sequence that will determine where and when the transgene is active) or a splice site (which is a regulatory sequence determining when a mRNA molecule will be cleaved by the spliceosome) a coding sequence (i.e. the transgene), usually derived from the cDNA for the protein of interest, optionally containing a polyA signal sequence and a terminator sequence.

In one embodiment the transgene cassette may encode one or more polycistronic mRNA sequences.

Polycistronic mRNA as employed herein refers to an mRNA molecule encoding two or more functional RNA, peptides or proteins or a combination thereof. In one embodiment the transgene cassette encodes a polycistronic mRNA.

In one embodiment transgene cassette in the context of a cassette encoding polycistronic mRNA includes a segment of DNA optionally containing an exogenous promoter (which is a regulatory sequence that will determine where and when the transgene is active) or a splice site (which is a regulatory sequence determining when a mRNA molecule will be cleaved by the spliceosome) two or more coding sequences (i.e. the transgenes), usually derived from the cDNA for the protein or peptide of interest, for example wherein each coding sequence is separated by either an IRES or a 2A peptide. Following the last coding sequence to be transcribed, the cassette may optionally contain a polyA sequence and a terminator sequence.

In one embodiment the transgene cassette encodes a monocistronic mRNA followed by a polycistronic mRNA. In another embodiment the transgene cassette a polycistronic mRNA followed by a monocistronic mRNA.

In one embodiment the adenovirus is a human adenovirus. “Adenovirus”, “serotype” or adenoviral serotype” as employed herein refers to any adenovirus that can be assigned to any of the over 50 currently known adenoviral serotypes, which are classified into subgroups A-F, and further extends to any, as yet, unidentified or unclassified adenoviral serotypes. See, for example, Strauss, “Adenovirus infections in humans,” in The Adenoviruses, Ginsberg, ea., Plenum Press, New York, N.Y., pp. 451-596 (1984) and Shenk, “Adenoviridae: The Viruses and Their Replication,” in Fields Virology, Vol. 2, Fourth Edition, Knipe, 35ea., Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, pp. 2265-2267 (2001), as shown in

TABLE 1SubGroupAdenoviral SerotypeA12, 18, 31B3, 7, 11, 14, 16, 21, 34, 35, 51C1, 2, 5, 6D8-10, 13, 15, 17, 19, 20, 22-30, 32, 33, 36-39, 42-4950E4F40, 41

In one embodiment the adenovirus is a subgroup B, for example independently selected from the group comprising or consisting of: Ad3, Ad7, Ad11, Ad14, Ad16, Ad21, Ad34 and Ad51, such as Ad11, in particular Ad11p (the Slobitski strain). In one embodiment the adenovirus of the invention has the capsid, such as the hexon and/or fibre of a subgroup B adenovirus, such as Ad11, in particular Ad11p. In one embodiment the adenovirus is Ad11 or has the fibre and/or hexon and/or penton of Ad11, such as Ad11p.

In one embodiment it is not a group A virus

In one embodiment the adenovirus is not a group C virus. In one embodiment the adenovirus is not Ad5. Ad5 as employed herein refers to known adenoviruses designated as serotype 5, it does not extend to genetically engineered viruses that comprises sequences from Ad5. In one embodiment viruses of the present disclosure does not have an Ad5 capsid.

In one embodiment the adenovirus of the present disclosure is chimeric. When an adenovirus is chimeric then the characteristics of the outer capsid will be employed to determine the serotype. Chimeric as employed herein refers to a virus that comprises DNA from at least two different virus serotypes, including different serotypes within the same group.

In one embodiment the oncolytic virus has a fibre, hexon and penton proteins from the same serotype, for example Ad11, in particular Ad11p, for example found at positions 30812-31789, 18254-21100 and 13682-15367 of the genomic sequence of the latter wherein the nucleotide positions are relative to genbank ID 217307399 (accession number: GC689208).

In one embodiment the adenovirus is enadenotucirev (also known as EnAd and formerly as EnAd). Enadenotucirev as employed herein refers the chimeric adenovirus of SEQ ID NO: 12. It is a replication competent oncolytic chimeric adenovirus which has enhanced therapeutic properties compared to wild type adenoviruses (see WO2005/118825). EnAd has a chimeric E2B region, which features DNA from Ad11p and Ad3, and deletions in E3/E4. The structural changes in enadenotucirev result in a genome that is approximately 3.5 kb smaller than Ad11p thereby providing additional “space” for the insertion of transgenes.

OvAd1 and OvAd2 are also chimeric adenoviruses similar to enadenotucirev, which also have additional “space” in the genome (see WO2008/080003). Thus in one embodiment the adenovirus is OvAd1 or OvAd2.

In one embodiment the adenovirus is oncolytic. Oncolytic adenovirus as employed herein means an adenovirus that preferentially kills cancer cells as compared with non-cancer cells.

In one embodiment the oncolytic virus is apoptotic. That is, it hastens programmed cell death.

In one embodiment the oncolytic virus is cytolytic. The cytolytic activity of oncolytic adenoviruses of the disclosure can be determined in representative tumour cell lines and the data converted to a measurement of potency, for example with an adenovirus belonging to subgroup C, such as Ad5, being used as a standard (i.e. given a potency of 1). A suitable method for determining cytolytic activity is an MTS assay (see Example 4, FIG. 2 of WO2005/118825 incorporated herein by reference).

In one embodiment the oncolytic virus is necrolytic. That is, it causes or hastens cell necrosis or immunogenic cell death. In one embodiment necrolytic cell death is advantageous because it triggers, induces the patients (host) immune responses.

Unless the context indicates otherwise, adenovirus as employed herein refers to a replication competent virus and also replication deficient viral vectors.

In one embodiment the virus is replication competent. Replication competent in the context of the present specification refers to a virus that possesses all the necessary machinery to replicate in cells in vitro and in vivo, i.e. without the assistance of a packaging cell line. A viral vector, for example deleted in the E1 region, capable of replicating in a complementary packaging cell line is not a replication competent virus in the present context.

Viral vectors are replication deficient and require a packaging cell to provide a complementary gene to allow replication.

Adenovirus genome as employed herein means the DNA sequence encoding the structural proteins and elements relevant to the function/life cycle of an adenovirus.

All human adenovirus genomes examined to date have the same general organisation i.e., the genes encoding specific functions are located at the same position in the viral genome (referred to herein as structural elements). Each end of the viral genome has a short sequence known as the inverted terminal repeat (or ITR), which is required for viral replication. The viral genome contains five early transcription units (E1A, E1B, E2, E3, and E4), three delayed early units (IX, IVa2 and E2 late) and one late unit (major late) that is processed to generate five families of late mRNAs (L1-L5). Proteins encoded by the early genes are primarily involved in replication and modulation of the host cell response to infection, whereas the late genes encode viral structural proteins. Early genes are prefixed by the letter E and the late genes are prefixed by the letter L.

The genome of adenoviruses is tightly packed, that is, there is little non-coding sequence, and therefore it can be difficult to find a suitable location to insert transgenes. The present inventors have identified two DNA regions where transgenes are tolerated, in particular the sites identified are suitable for accommodating complicated transgenes, such as those encoding antibodies. That is, the transgene is expressed without adversely affecting the virus' viability, native properties such as oncolytic properties or replication.

In one embodiment the oncolytic or partial oncolytic virus according to the disclosure may be as a result of deletion in the E4 and/or E3 region, for example deleted in part of the E4 region or fully deleted in the E3 region, or alternatively deleted in part of the E4 region (such as E4orf4) and fully deleted in the E3 region, for example as exemplified in the sequences disclosed herein.

In one embodiment the oncolytic virus of the disclosure is chimeric. Chimeric as employed herein refers to virus that comprises DNA from two or more different serotypes and has oncolytic virus properties.

In one embodiment the oncolytic virus is EnAd or an active derivate thereof which retains the essential beneficial properties of the virus. EnAd is disclosed in WO2005/118825 (incorporated herein by reference) and the full sequence for the virus is provided herein SEQ ID NO: 12. The chimeric E2B region is disclosed herein as SEQ ID NO: 47.

Alternative oncolytic viruses include OvAd1 and OvAd2, which are respectively disclosed as SEQ ID NO: 2 and 3 in WO2008/080003 and incorporated herein by reference.

Advantageously, the adenoviruses of the present disclosure exhibit similar virus activity, for example replication and/or infectivity, profiles to EnAd following infection of a variety of different colon cancer cell lines in vitro.

Structural Elements of Adenoviruses The present disclosure also relates to the novel sequences of viruses or viral components/constructs, such as plasmids, disclosed herein.

In one embodiment the adenovirus comprises a genome comprising the sequence of formula (I)
5′ITR-B1-BA-B2-BX-BB-BY-B3-3′ITR  (I)
wherein: B1comprises E1A, E1B or E1A-E1B; BAcomprises E2B-L1-L2-L3-E2A-L4; B2is a bond or comprises E3; BXis a bond or a DNA sequence comprising a restriction site, one or more transgenes or both; BBcomprises L5; BYis a bond or a DNA sequence comprising: a restriction site, one or more transgenes or both; B3is a bond or comprises E4; wherein at least one of BXand BYis not a bond and comprises a transgene or a restriction site or both.

In one embodiment the adenovirus comprises a genome comprising the sequence of formula (I) wherein B1comprises E1A, E1B or E1A-E1B; BAcomprises E2B-L1-L2-L3-E2A-L4; B2is a bond or comprises E3; BXis a bond; BBcomprises L5; BYis a DNA sequence comprising: a restriction site, one or more transgenes or both; B3is a bond or compromises E4; wherein at least one of BXand BYis not a bond and comprises a transgene or a restriction site or both.

In one embodiment the adenovirus comprises a genome comprising the sequence of formula (I) wherein: B1comprises E1A, E1B or E1A-E1B; BAcompromises E2B-L1-L2-L3-E2A-L4; B2is a bond or comprises E3; BXis a DNA sequence comprising: a restriction site, one or more transgenes or both; BBis L5; BYis a bond; B3is a bond or comprises E4; wherein at least one of BXand BYis not a bond and comprises a transgene or a restriction site or both.

In one embodiment the adenovirus comprises a genome comprising the sequence of formula (Ia):
5′ITR-BA-B2-BX-BB-BY-B3-3′ITR  (Ia)
wherein: BAcomprises E2B-L1-L2-L3-E2A-L4; B2is a bond or comprises E3; BXis a bond or a DNA sequence comprising a restriction site, one or more transgenes or both; BBcomprises L5; BYis a bond or a DNA sequence comprising: a restriction site, one or more transgenes or both; B3is a bond or comprises E4; wherein at least one of BXand BYis not a bond and at least one comprises a transgene or a restriction site, such as a transgene.

In one embodiment the adenovirus comprises a genome comprising the sequence of formula (Ia) wherein: BAcomprises E2B-L1-L2-L3-E2A-L4; B2is a bond or comprises E3; BXis a bond; BBcomprises L5; BYis a DNA sequence comprising: a restriction site, one or more transgenes or both; B3is a bond or comprises E4; wherein at least one of BXand BYis not a bond and at least one comprises a transgene or a restriction site or both, such as a transgene.

In one embodiment the adenovirus comprises a genome comprising the sequence of formula (Ia) wherein BAcomprises E2B-L1-L2-L3-E2A-L4; B2is a bond or comprises E3; BXis a DNA sequence comprising: a restriction site, one or more transgenes or both; BBcomprises L5; BYis a bond; B3is a bond or comprises E4; wherein at least one of BXand BYis not a bond and comprises a transgene or restriction site or both, such as a transgene.

In one embodiment the adenovirus comprises a genome comprising the sequence of formula (Ib):
5′ITR-BA-BX-BB-BY-B3-3′ITR  (Ib)
wherein: BAcomprises E2B-L1-L2-L3-E2A-L4; BXis a bond or a DNA sequence comprising a restriction site, one or more transgenes or both; BBcomprises L5; BYis a bond or a DNA sequence comprising: a restriction site, one or more transgenes or both; B3is a bond or comprises E4; wherein at least one of BXand BYis not a bond and comprises a transgene or a restriction site or both, such as a transgene.

In one embodiment the adenovirus comprises a genome comprising the sequence of formula (Ib) wherein: BAcompromises E2B-L1-L2-L3-E2A-L4; BXis a bond; BBcompromises L5; BYis a DNA sequence comprising: a restriction site, one or more transgenes or both; B3is a bond or compromises E4; wherein at least one of BXand BYis not a bond and comprises a transgene or a restriction site or both, such as a transgene.

In one embodiment the adenovirus comprises a genome comprising the sequence of formula (Ib) wherein: BAcomprises E2B-L1-L2-L3-E2A-L4; BXis a DNA sequence comprising: a restriction site, one or more transgenes or both; BBcomprises L5; BYis a bond; B3is a bond or comprises E4; wherein at least one of BXand BYis not a bond and comprises a transgene or a restriction site or both, such as a transgene.

In one embodiment the adenovirus comprises a genome comprising the sequence of formula (Ic):
5′ITR-BA-B2-BX-BB-BY-3′ITR  (Ic)
wherein: BAcomprises E2B-L1-L2-L3-E2A-L4; B2is E3; BXis a bond or a DNA sequence comprising a restriction site, one or more transgenes or both; BBcomprises L5; BYis a bond or a DNA sequence comprising: a restriction site, one or more transgenes or both; wherein at least one of BXand BYis not a bond and comprises a transgene or a restriction site or both, such as a transgene.

In one embodiment the adenovirus comprises a genome comprising the sequence of formula (Ic) wherein BAcomprises E2B-L1-L2-L3-E2A-L4; B2comprises E3; BXis a bond; BBcomprises L5; BYis a DNA sequence comprising: a restriction site, one or more transgenes or both; wherein at least one of BXand BYis not a bond and comprises a transgene or a restriction site or both, such as a transgene.

In one embodiment the adenovirus comprises a genome comprising the sequence of formula (Ic) wherein: BAcomprises E2B-L1-L2-L3-E2A-L4; B2E3; BXis a DNA sequence comprising a restriction site, one or more transgenes or both; BBcomprises L5; BYis a bond; wherein at least one of BXand BYis not a bond and comprises a transgene or a restriction site, such as a transgene.

In one embodiment the adenovirus comprises a genome comprising the sequence of formula (Id):
5′ITR-B1-BA-BX-BB-BY-B3-3′ITR  (Id)
wherein: B1comprises E1A, E1B or E1A-E1B; BAcomprises E2B-L1-L2-L3-E2A-L4; BXis a bond or a DNA sequence comprising a restriction site, one or more transgenes or both; BBcomprises L5; BYis a bond or a DNA sequence comprising: a restriction site, one or more transgenes or both; B3is a bond or comprises E4; wherein at least one of BXand BYis not a bond and comprises a transgene a restriction site or both.

In one embodiment the adenovirus comprises a genome comprising the sequence of formula (Id) wherein: B1comprises E1A, E1B or E1A-E1B; BAis E2B-L1-L2-L3-E2A-L4; BXis a bond; BBcomprises L5; BYis a DNA sequence comprising: a restriction site, one or more transgenes or both; B3is a bond or comprises E4; wherein at least one of BXand BYis not a bond and comprises a transgene a restriction site or both, such as a transgene.

In one embodiment the adenovirus comprises a genome comprising the sequence of formula (Id) wherein: B1comprises E1A, E1B or E1A-E1B; BAcomprises E2B-L1-L2-L3-E2A-L4; BXis a DNA sequence comprising a restriction site, one or more transgenes or both; BBcomprises L5; BYis a bond; B3is a bond or comprises E4; wherein at least one of BXand BYis not a bond and comprises a transgene a restriction site or both.

In one embodiment the adenovirus comprises a genome comprising the sequence of formula (Ie):
5′ITR-B1-BA-B2-BX-BB-BY-3′ITR  (Ie)
wherein: B1comprises E1A, E1B or E1A-E1B; BAcomprises E2B-L1-L2-L3-E2A-L4; B2comprises E3; BXis a bond or a DNA sequence comprising a restriction site, one or more transgenes or both; BBcomprises L5; BYis a bond or a DNA sequence comprising: a restriction site, one or more transgenes or both; wherein at least one of BXand BYis not a bond and comprises a transgene a restriction site or both.

In one embodiment the adenovirus comprises a genome comprising the sequence of formula (Ie) wherein: B1comprises E1A, E1B or E1A-E1B; BAcomprises E2B-L1-L2-L3-E2A-L4; B2comprises E3; BXis a bond; BBcomprises L5; BYis a DNA sequence comprising: a restriction site, one or more transgenes or both; wherein at least one of BXand BYis not a bond and comprises a transgene a restriction site or both.

In one embodiment the adenovirus comprises a genome comprising the sequence of formula (Ie) wherein B1comprises E1A, E1B or E1A-E1B; BAcomprises E2B-L1-L2-L3-E2A-L4; B2comprises E3; BXis a DNA sequence comprising: a restriction site, one or more transgenes or both; BBcomprises L5; BYis a bond; wherein at least one of BXand BYis not a bond and comprises a transgene a restriction site or both.

In one embodiment there is provided a compound of formula (I), (Ia), (Ib), (Ic), (Id) or (Ie) wherein BXand BYis not a bond and comprises a transgene a restriction site or both, such as BXand BYare both a transgene.

A bond refers to a co-valent bond connecting the one DNA sequence to another DNA sequence, for example connecting one section of the virus genome to another. Thus when a variable in formula (I) (Ia), (Ib), (Ic), (Id) or (Ie) herein represents a bond the feature or element represented by the bond is absent i.e. deleted.

As the structure of adenoviruses is, in general, similar the elements below are discussed in terms of the structural elements and the commonly used nomenclature referring thereto, which are known to the skilled person. When an element is referred to herein then we refer to the DNA sequence encoding the element or a DNA sequence encoding the same structural protein of the element in an adenovirus. The latter is relevant because of the redundancy of the DNA code. The viruses' preference for codon usage may need to be considered for optimised results.

Any structural element from an adenovirus employed in the viruses of the present disclosure may comprise or consist of the natural sequence or may have similarity over the given length of at least 95%, such as 96%, 97%, 98%, 99% or 100%. The original sequence may be modified to omit 10%, 9%, 8%, 7%, 6%, 5%, 4%, 3%, 2% or 1% of the genetic material. The skilled person is aware that when making changes the reading frames of the virus must be not disrupted such that the expression of structural proteins is disrupted.

In one embodiment the given element is a full-length sequence i.e. the full-length gene.

In one embodiment the given element is less than a full-length and retains the same or corresponding function as the full-length sequence.

In one embodiment for a given element which is optional in the constructs of the present disclosure, the DNA sequence may be less than a full-length and have no functionality.

The structural genes encoding structural or functional proteins of the adenovirus are generally linked by non-coding regions of DNA. Thus there is some flexibility about where to “cut” the genomic sequence of the structural element of interest (especially non-coding regions thereof) for the purpose of inserting a transgene into the viruses of the present disclosure. Thus for the purposes of the present specification, the element will be considered a structural element of reference to the extent that it is fit for purpose and does not encode extraneous material. Thus, if appropriate the gene will be associated with suitable non-coding regions, for example as found in the natural structure of the virus.

Thus in one embodiment an insert, such as DNA encoding a restriction site and/or transgene, is inserted into a non-coding region of genomic virus DNA, such as an intron or intergenic sequence. Having said this some non-coding regions of adenovirus may have a function, for example in alternative splicing, transcription regulation or translation regulation, and this may need to be taken into consideration.

The sites identified herein, that are associated with the L5 region, are suitable for accommodating a variety of DNA sequences encoding complex entities such as RNAi, cytokines, single chain or multimeric proteins, such as antibodies.

Gene as employed herein refers to coding and any non-coding sequences associated therewith, for example introns and associated exons. In one embodiment a gene comprises or consists of only essential structural components, for example coding region.

Below follows a discussion relating to specific structural elements of adenoviruses.

The Inverted Terminal Repeat (ITR) sequences are common to all known adenoviruses and were so named because of their symmetry, and are the viral chromosome origins of replication. Another property of these sequences is their ability to form a hairpin.

The 5′ITR as employed herein refers to part or all of an ITR from the 5′ end of an adenovirus, which retains the function of the ITR when incorporated into an adenovirus in an appropriate location. In one embodiment the 5′ITR comprises or consists of the sequence from about 1 bp to 138 bp of SEQ ID NO: 12 or a sequence 90, 95, 96, 97, 98 or 99% identical thereto along the whole length, in particular the sequence consisting of from about 1 bp to 138 bp of SEQ ID NO: 12.

The 3′ITR as employed herein refers to part or all of an ITR from 3′ end of an adenovirus which retains the function of the ITR when incorporated into an adenovirus in an appropriate location. In one embodiment the 3′ITR comprises or consists of the sequence from about 32189 bp to 32326 bp of SEQ ID NO: 12 or a sequence 90, 95, 96, 97, 98 or 99% identical thereto along the whole length, in particular the sequence consisting of from about 32189 bp to 32326 bp of SEQ ID NO: 12.

B1as employed herein refers to the DNA sequence encoding: part or all of an E1A from an adenovirus, part or all of the E1B region of an adenovirus, and independently part or all of E1A and E1B region of an adenovirus.

When B1is a bond then E1A and E1B sequences will be omitted from the virus. In one embodiment B1is a bond and thus the virus is a vector.

In one embodiment B1further comprises a transgene. It is known in the art that the E1 region can accommodate a transgene which may be inserted in a disruptive way into the E1 region (i.e. in the “middle” of the sequence) or part or all of the E1 region may be deleted to provide more room to accommodate genetic material.

E1A as employed herein refers to the DNA sequence encoding part or all of an adenovirus E1A region. The latter here is referring to the polypeptide/protein E1A. It may be mutated such that the protein encoded by the E1A gene has conservative or non-conservative amino acid changes, such that it has: the same function as wild-type (i.e. the corresponding non-mutated protein); increased function in comparison to wild-type protein; decreased function, such as no function in comparison to wild-type protein; or has a new function in comparison to wild-type protein or a combination of the same as appropriate.

E1B as employed herein refers to the DNA sequence encoding part or all of an adenovirus E1B region (i.e. polypeptide or protein), it may be mutated such that the protein encoded by the E1B gene/region has conservative or non-conservative amino acid changes, such that it has: the same function as wild-type (i.e. the corresponding non-mutated protein); increased function in comparison to wild-type protein; decreased function, such as no function in comparison to wild-type protein; or has a new function in comparison to wild-type protein or a combination of the same as appropriate.

Thus B1can be modified or unmodified relative to a wild-type E1 region, such as a wild-type E1A and/or E1B. The skilled person can easily identify whether E1A and/or E1B are present or (part) deleted or mutated.

Wild-type as employed herein refers to a known adenovirus. A known adenovirus is one that has been identified and named, regardless of whether the sequence is available.

In one embodiment B1has the sequence from 139 bp to 3932 bp of SEQ ID NO: 12.

BAas employed herein refers to the DNA sequence encoding the E2B-L1-L2-L3-E2A-L4 regions including any non-coding sequences, as appropriate. Generally this sequence will not comprise a transgene. In one embodiment the sequence is substantially similar or identical to a contiguous sequence from a known adenovirus, for example a serotype shown in Table 1, in particular a group B virus, for example Ad3, Ad7, Ad11, Ad14, Ad16, Ad21, Ad34, Ad35, Ad51 or a combination thereof, such as Ad3, Ad11 or a combination thereof. In one embodiment is E2B-L1-L2-L3-E2A-L4 refers to comprising these elements and other structural elements associated with the region, for example BAwill generally include the sequence encoding the protein IV2a, for example as follows: IV2A IV2a-E2B-L1-L2-L3-E2A-L4.

In one embodiment the E2B region is chimeric. That is, comprises DNA sequences from two or more different adenoviral serotypes, for example from Ad3 and Ad11, such as Ad11p. In one embodiment the E2B region has the sequence from 5068 bp to 10355 bp of SEQ ID NO: 12 or a sequence 95%, 96%, 97%, 98% or 99% identical thereto over the whole length.

In one embodiment the E2B in component BAcomprises the sequences shown in SEQ ID NO: 47 (which corresponds to SEQ ID NO: 3 disclosed in WO2005/118825).

In one embodiment BAhas the sequence from 3933 bp to 27184 bp of SEQ ID NO: 12.

E3 as employed herein refers to the DNA sequence encoding part or all of an adenovirus E3 region (i.e. protein/polypeptide), it may be mutated such that the protein encoded by the E3 gene has conservative or non-conservative amino acid changes, such that it has the same function as wild-type (the corresponding unmutated protein); increased function in comparison to wild-type protein; decreased function, such as no function in comparison to wild-type protein or has a new function in comparison to wild-type protein or a combination of the same, as appropriate.

In one embodiment the E3 region is form an adenovirus serotype given in Table 1 or a combination thereof, in particular a group B serotype, for example Ad3, Ad7, Ad11 (in particular Ad11p), Ad14, Ad16, Ad21, Ad34, Ad35, Ad51 or a combination thereof, such as Ad3, Ad11 (in particular Ad11p) or a combination thereof.

In one embodiment the E3 region is partially deleted, for example is 95%, 90%, 85%, 80%, 75%, 70%, 65%, 60%, 55%, 50%, 45%, 40%, 35%, 30%, 25%, 20%, 15%, 10%, 5% deleted. In one embodiment B2is a bond, wherein the DNA encoding the E3 region is absent.

In one embodiment the DNA encoding the E3 region can be replaced or interrupted by a transgene. As employed herein “E3 region replaced by a transgene as employed herein includes part or all of the E3 region is replaced with a transgene.

In one embodiment the B2region comprises the sequence from 27185 bp to 28165 bp of SEQ ID NO: 12.

In one embodiment B2consists of the sequence from 27185 bp to 28165 bp of SEQ ID NO: 12.

BXas employed herein refers to the DNA sequence in the vicinity of the 5′ end of the L5 gene in BB. In the vicinity of or proximal to the 5′ end of the L5 gene as employed herein refers to: adjacent (contiguous) to the 5′ end of the L5 gene or a non-coding region inherently associated herewith i.e. abutting or contiguous to the 5′ prime end of the L5 gene or a non-coding region inherently associated therewith. Alternatively, in the vicinity of or proximal to may refer to being close the L5 gene, such that there are no coding sequences between the BXregion and the 5′ end of L5 gene.

Thus in one embodiment BXis joined directly to a base of L5 which represents, for example the start of a coding sequence of the L5 gene.

Thus in one embodiment BXis joined directly to a base of L5 which represents, for example the start of a non-coding sequence, or joined directly to a non-coding region naturally associated with L5. A non-coding region naturally associated L5 as employed herein refers to part of all of a non-coding regions which is part of the L5 gene or contiguous therewith but not part of another gene.

In one embodiment BXcomprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 10. This sequence is an artificial non-coding sequence wherein a DNA sequence, for example comprising a transgene (or transgene cassette), a restriction site or a combination thereof may be inserted therein. This sequence is advantageous because it acts as a buffer in that allows some flexibility on the exact location of the transgene whilst minimising the disruptive effects on virus stability and viability.

The insert(s) can occur anywhere within SEQ ID NO: 10 from the 5′ end, the 3′ end or at any point between bp 1 to 201, for example between base pairs 1/2, 2/3, 3/4, 4/5, 5/6, 6/7, 7/8, 8/9, 9/10, 10/11, 11/12, 12/13, 13/14, 14/15, 15/16, 16/17, 17/18, 18/19, 19/20, 20/21, 21/22, 22/23, 23/24, 24/25, 25/26, 26/27, 27/28, 28/29, 29/30, 30/31, 31/32, 32/33, 33/34, 34/35, 35/36, 36/37, 37/38, 38/39, 39/40, 40/41, 41/42, 42/43, 43/44, 44/45, 45/46, 46/47, 47/48, 48/49, 49/50, 50/51, 51/52, 52/53, 53/54, 54/55, 55/56, 56/57, 57/58, 58/59, 59/60, 60/61, 61/62, 62/63, 63/64, 64/65, 65/66, 66/67, 67/68, 68/69, 69/70, 70/71, 71/72, 72/73, 73/74, 74/75, 75/76, 76/77, 77/78, 78/79, 79/80, 80/81, 81/82, 82/83, 83/84, 84/85, 85/86, 86/87, 87/88, 88/89, 89/90, 90/91, 91/92, 92/93, 93/94, 94/95, 95/96, 96/97, 97/98, 98/99, 99/100, 100/101, 101/102, 102/103, 103/104, 104/105, 105/106, 106/107, 107/108, 108/109, 109/110, 110/111, 111/112, 112/113, 113/114, 114/115, 115/116, 116/117, 117/118, 118/119, 119/120, 120/121, 121/122, 122/123, 123/124, 124/125, 125/126, 126/127, 127/128, 128/129, 129/130, 130/131, 131/132, 132/133, 133/134, 134/135, 135/136, 136/137, 137/138, 138/139, 139/140, 140/141, 141/142, 142/143, 143/144, 144/145, 145/146, 146/147, 147/148, 148/149, 150/151, 151/152, 152/153, 153/154, 154/155, 155/156, 156/157, 157/158, 158/159, 159/160, 160/161, 161/162, 162/163, 163/164, 164/165, 165/166, 166/167, 167/168, 168/169, 169/170, 170/171, 171/172, 172/173, 173/174, 174/175, 175/176, 176/177, 177/178, 178/179, 179/180, 180/181, 181/182, 182/183, 183/184, 184/185, 185/186, 186/187, 187/188, 189/190, 190/191, 191/192, 192/193, 193/194, 194/195, 195/196, 196/197, 197/198, 198/199, 199/200 or 200/201.

In one embodiment BXcomprises SEQ ID NO: 10 with a DNA sequence inserted between bp 27 and bp 28 or a place corresponding to between positions 28192 bp and 28193 bp of SEQ ID NO: 12.

In one embodiment the insert is a restriction site insert. In one embodiment the restriction site insert comprises one or two restriction sites. In one embodiment the restriction site is a 19 bp restriction site insert comprising 2 restriction sites. In one embodiment the restriction site insert is a 9 bp restriction site insert comprising 1 restriction site. In one embodiment the restriction site insert comprises one or two restriction sites and at least one transgene, for example one or two transgenes. In one embodiment the restriction site is a 19 bp restriction site insert comprising 2 restriction sites and at least one transgene, for example one or two transgenes. In one embodiment the restriction site insert is a 9 bp restriction site insert comprising 1 restriction site and at least one transgene, for example one, two or three transgenes, such as one or two. In one embodiment two restriction sites sandwich one or more, such as two transgenes (for example in a transgene cassette). In one embodiment when BXcomprises two restrictions sites the said restriction sites are different from each other. In one embodiment said one or more restrictions sites in BXare non-naturally occurring in the particular adenovirus genome into which they have been inserted. In one embodiment said one or more restrictions sites in BXare different to other restrictions sites located elsewhere in the adenovirus genome, for example different to naturally occurring restrictions sites and/or restriction sites introduced into other parts of the genome, such as a restriction site introduced into BY. Thus in one embodiment the restriction site or sites allow the DNA in the section to be cut specifically.

Advantageously, use of “unique” restriction sites provides selectivity and control over the where the virus genome is cut, simply by using the appropriate restriction enzyme.

Cut specifically as employed herein refers to where use of an enzyme specific to the restriction sites cuts the virus only in the desired location, usually one location, although occasionally it may be a pair of locations. A pair of locations as employed herein refers to two restrictions sites in proximity of each other that are designed to be cut by the same enzyme (i.e. cannot be differentiated from each other).

In one embodiment the restriction site insert is SEQ ID NO: 55.

In one embodiment BXhas the sequence from 28166 bp to 28366 bp of SEQ ID NO: 12.

In one embodiment BXis a bond.

BBas employed herein refers to the DNA sequence encoding the L5 region. As employed herein the L5 region refers to the DNA sequence containing the gene encoding the fibre polypeptide/protein, as appropriate in the context. The fibre gene/region encodes the fibre protein which is a major capsid component of adenoviruses. The fibre functions in receptor recognition and contributes to the adenovirus' ability to selectively bind and infect cells.

In viruses of the present disclosure the fibre can be from any adenovirus serotype and adenoviruses which are chimeric as result of changing the fibre for one of a different serotype are known. In one embodiment the fibre is from a group B virus, in particular Ad11, such as Ad11p. In one embodiment BBhas the sequence from 28367 bp to 29344 bp of SEQ ID NO: 12.

DNA sequence in relation to BYas employed herein refers to the DNA sequence in the vicinity of the 3′ end of the L5 gene of BB. In the vicinity of or proximal to the 3′ end of the L5 gene as employed herein refers to: adjacent (contiguous) to the 3′ end of the L5 gene or a non-coding region inherently associated therewith i.e. abutting or contiguous to the 3′ prime end of the L5 gene or a non-coding region inherently associated therewith (i.e. all or part of an non-coding sequence endogenous to L5). Alternatively, in the vicinity of or proximal to may refer to being close the L5 gene, such that there are no coding sequences between the BYregion and the 3′ end of the L5 gene.

Thus in one embodiment BYis joined directly to a base of L5 which represents the “end” of a coding sequence.

Thus in one embodiment BYis joined directly to a base of L5 which represents the “end” of a non-coding sequence, or joined directly to a non-coding region naturally associated with L5.

Inherently and naturally are used interchangeably herein. In one embodiment BYcomprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 11. This sequence is a non-coding sequence wherein a DNA sequence, for example comprising a transgene (or transgene cassette), a restriction site or a combination thereof may be inserted. This sequence is advantageous because it acts a buffer in that allows some flexibility on the exact location of the transgene whilst minimising the disruptive effects on virus stability and viability.

The insert(s) can occur anywhere within SEQ ID NO: 11 from the 5′ end, the 3′ end or at any point between bp 1 to 35, for example between base pairs 1/2, 2/3, 3/4, 4/5, 5/6, 6/7, 7/8, 8/9, 9/10, 10/11, 11/12, 12/13, 13/14, 14/15, 15/16, 16/17, 17/18, 18/19, 19/20, 20/21, 21/22, 22/23, 23/24, 24/25, 25/26, 26/27, 27/28, 28/29, 29/30, 30/31, 31/32, 32/33, 33/34, or 34/35.

In one embodiment BYcomprises SEQ ID NO: 11 with a DNA sequence inserted between positions bp 12 and 13 or a place corresponding to 29356 bp and 29357 bp in SEQ ID NO: 12. In one embodiment the insert is a restriction site insert. In one embodiment the restriction site insert comprises one or two restriction sites. In one embodiment the restriction site is a 19 bp restriction site insert comprising 2 restriction sites. In one embodiment the restriction site insert is a 9 bp restriction site insert comprising 1 restriction site. In one embodiment the restriction site insert comprises one or two restriction sites and at least one transgene, for example one or two or three transgenes, such as one or two transgenes. In one embodiment the restriction site is a 19 bp restriction site insert comprising 2 restriction sites and at least one transgene, for example one or two transgenes. In one embodiment the restriction site insert is a 9 bp restriction site insert comprising 1 restriction site and at least one transgene, for example one or two transgenes. In one embodiment two restriction sites sandwich one or more, such as two transgenes (for example in a transgene cassette). In one embodiment when BYcomprises two restrictions sites the said restriction sites are different from each other. In one embodiment said one or more restrictions sites in BYare non-naturally occurring (such as unique) in the particular adenovirus genome into which they have been inserted. In one embodiment said one or more restrictions sites in BYare different to other restrictions sites located elsewhere in the adenovirus genome, for example different to naturally occurring restrictions sites or restriction sites introduced into other parts of the genome, such as BX. Thus in one embodiment the restriction site or sites allow the DNA in the section to be cut specifically.

In one embodiment the restriction site insert is SEQ ID NO: 54.

In one embodiment BYhas the sequence from 29345 bp to 29379 bp of SEQ ID NO: 12.

In one embodiment BYis a bond.

In one embodiment the insert is after bp 12 in SEQ ID NO: 11.

In one embodiment the insert is at about position 29356 bp of SEQ ID NO: 12.

In one embodiment the insert is a transgene cassette comprising one or more transgenes, for example 1, 2 or 3, such as 1 or 2.

E4 as employed herein refers to the DNA sequence encoding part or all of an adenovirus E4 region (i.e. polypeptide/protein region), which may be mutated such that the protein encoded by the E4 gene has conservative or non-conservative amino acid changes, and has the same function as wild-type (the corresponding non-mutated protein); increased function in comparison to wild-type protein; decreased function, such as no function in comparison to wild-type protein or has a new function in comparison to wild-type protein or a combination of the same as appropriate.

In one embodiment the E4 region is partially deleted, for example is 95%, 90%, 85%, 80%, 75%, 70%, 65%, 60%, 55%, 50%, 45%, 40%, 35%, 30%, 25%, 20%, 15%, 10% or 5% deleted. In one embodiment the E4 region has the sequence from 32188 bp to 29380 bp of SEQ ID NO: 12.

In one embodiment B3is a bond, i.e. wherein E4 is absent.

In one embodiment B3has the sequence consisting of from 32188 bp to 29380 bp of SEQ ID NO: 12.

As employed herein number ranges are inclusive of the end points.

The skilled person will appreciate that the elements in the formulas herein, such as formula (I), (Ia), (Ib), (Ic), (Id) and (Ie) are contiguous and may embody non-coding DNA sequences as well as the genes and coding DNA sequences (structural features) mentioned herein. In one or more embodiments the formulas of the present disclosure are attempting to describe a naturally occurring sequence in the adenovirus genome. In this context it will be clear to the skilled person that the formula is referring to the major elements characterising the relevant section of genome and is not intended to be an exhaustive description of the genomic stretch of DNA.

E1A, E1B, E3 and E4 as employed herein each independently refer to the wild-type and equivalents thereof, mutated or partially deleted forms of each region as described herein, in particular a wild-type sequence from a known adenovirus.

“Insert” as employed herein refers to a DNA sequence that is incorporated either at the 5′ end, the 3′ end or within a given DNA sequence reference segment such that it interrupts the reference sequence. The latter is a reference sequence employed as a reference point relative to which the insert is located. In the context of the present disclosure inserts generally occur within either SEQ ID NO: 10 or SEQ ID NO: 11. An insert can be either a restriction site insert, a transgene cassette or both. When the sequence is interrupted the virus will still comprise the original sequence, but generally it will be as two fragments sandwiching the insert.

In one embodiment the transgene or transgene cassette does not comprise a non-biased inserting transposon, such as a TN7 transposon or part thereof. Tn7 transposon as employed herein refers to a non-biased insertion transposon as described in WO2008/080003.

Restriction Sites

Restriction sites in the locations disclosed here (for example in BXand/or BY) are useful in viruses and constructs of the present disclosure, such as plasmids, because they allow the transgene to be changed rapidly and, for example selectively when the restriction sites around the transgene(s) are unique.

Unique as employed herein refers to only one occurrence in the whole of the virus or construct.

In one embodiment the transgene or transgene cassette comprises a restriction site at each terminus, thereby allowing the cassette to be replaced.

A restriction site is a location in a DNA sequence that can be cut by a restriction enzyme, usually an enzyme specific to the sequence. In one embodiment the restriction site comprises 3 to 22 base pairs, for example 4 to 22, such as 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21 or 22 base pairs. Examples of restriction sites cut by restriction enzymes include but are not limited to:sequence GCGGCCGC cut by NotI and CciNI leaving 5′-GGCC overhangssequence GGCCGGCC cut by FseI and RigI leaving 3′-CCGG overhangssequence GCGATCGC cut by AsiSI, RgaI, SgfI and SfaAI leaving 3′-AT overhangssequence CCTGCAGG cut by SbfI, SdaI and Sse83871 leaving 3′-TGCA overhangssequence TGATCA cut by BclI, FbaI, Ksp221 and BsiQ1 leaving 5′-GATC overhangssequence CAAAACGTCGTGAGACAGTTTG [SEQ ID NO: 74] cut by I-Cre1 leaving 3′-GTGA overhangssequence TAACTATAACGGTCCTAAGGTAGCGAA [SEQ ID NO: 75] cut by I-CeuI leaving 3′ CTAA overhangssequence TAGGGATAACAGGGTAAT [SEQ ID NO: 76] cut by I-Sce1 leaving 3′ ATAA overhangssequence GCCCGGGC cut by SrfI leaving blunt endssequence GTTTAAAC cut by MssI, PmeI leaving blunt endssequence ATTTAAAT cut by SwaI, SmiI leaving blunt endssequence GGCGCGCC cut by AscI, PaIA1 and SgsI leaving 5′ CGCG overhangs

Other restriction enzymes that cut the same recognition sites may also be suitable.

In one embodiment one or more restrictions sites in BXand BYare independently selected from a restriction site specific to an enzyme described herein, for example NotI, FseI, AsiSI, SgfI and SbfI, in particular the restriction sites inserted are all different, such as sites specific for NotI and sites specific for FseI located in BXand SgfI and SbfI located in BY.

As discussed above in one embodiment the region BXand/or BYdo not comprise a restriction site. Advantageously, the viruses and constructs of the present disclosure can be prepared without restriction sites, for example using synthetic techniques. These techniques allow a great flexibility in the creation of the viruses and constructs. Furthermore, the present inventors have established that the properties of the viruses and constructs are not diminished when they are prepared by synthetic techniques.

Promoters

Promoter as employed herein means a region of DNA that initiates transcription of a particular gene or genes. Promoters are generally located proximal to the genes they transcribe, on the same strand and upstream (i.e. 5′) on the DNA. Proximal as employed in this context means sufficiently close to function as a promoter. In one embodiment the promoter is within 100 bp of the transcription start site. Thus endogenous promoter as employed herein refers to a promoter that naturally occurs in (i.e. is native to) the adenovirus (or construct) into which the transgene, is being inserted. In one or more embodiments the endogenous promoter employed is the naturally occurring promoter in the virus in its original location in the virus genome, in particular this is the primary or only promoter employed in the expression of the transgene or transgenes. In one embodiment the endogenous promoter used to promote the translation and optionally the transcription of the transgene is one resident, i.e. is one integrated in the genome of the adenovirus and not previously introduced by recombinant techniques.

Under the control of an endogenous promoter as employed herein refers to where the transgene/transgene cassette is inserted in the appropriate orientation to be under the control of said endogenous promoter. That is, where the promoter is generally on the antisense strand, the cassette is inserted, for example in the antisense orientation.

Having said this, genes can be expressed in one of two orientations. However, generally one orientation provides increased levels of expression over the other orientation, for a given (particular) transgene.

In one embodiment the cassette is in the sense orientation. That is, is transcribed in a 5′ to 3′ direction. In one embodiment the cassette is in the antisense orientation. That is, transcribed in the 3′ to 5′ orientation.

The endogenous promoters in the virus can, for example, be utilised by employing a gene encoding a transgene and a splice acceptor sequence. Thus in one embodiment the cassette will comprise a splice acceptor sequence when under the control of an endogenous promoter. Thus in one embodiment the coding sequence, for example the sequence encoding the antibody or antibody binding fragment further comprises a splice acceptor sequence.

In one embodiment the transgene, transgenes, or transgene cassette are under the control of an E4 promoter or a major late promoter, such as the major late promoter (ML promoter).

Under the control of as employed herein means that the transgene is activated, i.e. transcribed, when a particular promoter dictates.

The Major Late Promoter (ML promoter or MLP) as employed herein refers to the adenovirus promoter that controls expression of the “late expressed” genes, such as the L5 gene. The MLP is a “sense strand” promoter. That is, the promoter influences genes that are downstream of the promoter in the 5′-3′ direction. The major late promoter as employed herein refers the original major late promoter located in the virus genome.

E4 promoter as employed herein refers to the adenovirus promoter of the E4 region. The E4 region is an antisense region; therefore the promoter is an antisense promoter. That is, the promoter is upstream of the E4 region in the 3′-5′ direction. Therefore any transgene cassette under control of the E4 promoter may need to be oriented appropriately. In one embodiment the cassette under the control of the E4 promoter is in the antisense orientation. In one embodiment the cassette is under the control of the E4 promoter in the sense orientation. The E4 promoter as employed herein refers to the original E4 promoter located in the virus genome.

Thus in one embodiment there is provided a replication competent oncolytic adenovirus serotype 11 (such as Ad11p) or virus-derivative thereof wherein the fibre, hexon and capsid are serotype 11 (such as Ad11p), wherein the virus genome comprises a DNA sequence encoding a therapeutic antibody or antibody-binding fragment, wherein said DNA sequence under the control of a promoter endogenous to the adenovirus selected from consisting of E4 and the major late promoter (i.e. the E4 promoter or the major late promoter), such that the transgene does not interfere with virus replication, for example is associated with the L5 region (i.e. before or after said region), such as located after L5 in the virus genome, for example as shown in SEQ ID NO: 1 to 9, 46, 48 to 53, 56 to 63, 66-69 and 72-73.

In one embodiment an endogenous promoter is introduced into the viral genome at a desired location by recombinant techniques, for example is introduced in the transgene cassette. However, in the context of the present specification this arrangement will generally be referred to as an exogenous promoter.

In one embodiment the transgene cassette comprises an exogenous promoter. Exogenous promoter as employed herein refers to a promoter that is not naturally occurring in the adenovirus into which the transgene is being inserted. Typically exogenous promoters are from other viruses or are mammalian promoters. Exogenous promoter as employed herein means a DNA element, usually located upstream of the gene of interest, that regulates the transcription of the gene.

In one embodiment the regulator of gene expression is an exogenous promoter, for example CMV (cytomegalovirus promoter), CBA (chicken beta actin promoter) or PGK (phosphoglycerate kinase 1 promoter), such as CMV promoter.

In one embodiment the CMV exogenous promoter employed has the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 13. In one embodiment the PGK exogenous promoter employed has the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 14. In one embodiment the CBA exogenous promoter employed has the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 15.

In one embodiment there is provided a replication competent oncolytic adenovirus serotype 11 (such as Ad11p) or virus-derivative thereof wherein the fibre, hexon and capsid are serotype 11 (such as Ad11p), wherein the virus genome comprises a DNA sequence encoding a therapeutic antibody or antibody-binding fragment located in a part of the virus genome which is expressed late in the virus replication cycle and such that the transgene does not interfere with virus replication, wherein said DNA sequence under the control of a promoter exogenous to the adenovirus (for example the CMV promoter). In one embodiment the DNA sequence encoding an antibody or fragment is associated with the L5 region as described elsewhere herein.

In one embodiment the exogenous promoter is an antigen-presenting cell promoter. Antigen-presenting cell promoter as employed herein refers to a promoter for a gene that is selectively expressed by antigen-presenting cells, such as dendritic cells or macrophages. Such genes include but are not limited to: FLT-3, FLT-3 ligand, TLRs, CD1a, CD1c, CD11b, CD11c, CD80, CD83, CD86, CD123, CD172a, CD205, CD207, CD209, CD273, CD281, CD283, CD286, CD289, CD287, CXCR4, GITR Ligand, IFN-α2, IL-12, IL-23, ILT1, ILT2, ILT3, ILT4, ILT5, ILT7, TSLP Receptor, CD141, CD303, CADM1, CLEC9a, XCR1 or CD304; antigen processing and presentation mediators such as CTIIA or GILT. Thus in one embodiment the exogenous promoter is suitable for selective expression of transgenes in said antigen-presenting cells.

Other Regulatory Sequences

“Regulator of gene expression” (or regulator/regulatory element) as employed herein refers to a genetic feature, such as a promoter, enhancer or a splice acceptor sequence that plays a role in gene expression, typically by initiating or enhancing transcription or translation.

“Splice acceptor sequence”, “splice acceptor” or “splice site” as employed herein refers to a regulatory sequence determining when an mRNA molecule will be recognised by small nuclear ribonucleoproteins of the spliceosome complex. Once assembled the spliceosome catalyses splicing between the splice acceptor site of the mRNA molecule to an upstream splice donor site producing a mature mRNA molecule that can be translated to produce a single polypeptide or protein.

Different sized splice acceptor sequences may be employed in the present invention and these can be described as short splice acceptor (small), splice acceptor (medium) and branched splice acceptor (large).

SSA as employed herein means a short splice acceptor, typically comprising just the splice site, for example 4 bp. SA as employed herein means a splice acceptor, typically comprising the short splice acceptor and the polypyrimidine tract, for example 16 bp. bSA as employed herein means a branched splice acceptor, typically comprising the short splice acceptor, polypyrimidine tract and the branch point, for example 26 bp.

In one embodiment the splice acceptor employed in the constructs of the disclosure are shown in SEQ ID NO: 16 to 18. In one embodiment the SSA has the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 16. In one embodiment the SA has the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 17. In one embodiment the bSA has the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 18. In one embodiment the splice acceptor sequence is independently selected from the group comprising: TGCTAATCTT CCTTTCTCTC TTCAGG (SEQ ID NO: 18), CCTTTCTCTCTT CAGG (SEQ ID NO: 17), and CAGG (SEQ ID NO: 16).

In one embodiment the splice site is immediately proceeded (i.e. followed in a 5′ to 3′ direction) by a consensus Kozak sequence comprising CCACC. In one embodiment the splice site and the Kozak sequence are interspersed by up to 100 or less bp. In one embodiment the Kozak sequence has the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 45.

Typically, when under the control of an endogenous or exogenous promoter (such as an endogenous promoter), the coding sequence will be immediately preceded by a Kozak sequence. The start of the coding region is indicated by the initiation codon (AUG), for example is in the context of the sequence (gcc)gccRccAUGg [SEQ ID NO: 77] the start of the start of the coding sequences is indicated by the bases in bold. A lower case letter denotes common bases at this position (which can nevertheless vary) and upper case letters indicate highly-conserved bases, i.e. the ‘AUGG’ sequence is constant or rarely, if ever, changes; ‘R’ indicates that a purine (adenine or guanine) is usually observed at this position and the sequence in brackets (gcc) is of uncertain significance. Thus in one embodiment the initiation codon AUG is incorporated into a Kozak sequence.

Internal Ribosome Entry DNA Sequence as employed herein refers to a DNA sequence encoding an Internal Ribosome Entry Sequence (IRES). IRES as employed herein means a nucleotide sequence that allows for initiation of translation a messenger RNA (mRNA) sequence, including initiation starting within an mRNA sequence. This is particularly useful when the cassette encodes polycistronic mRNA. Using an IRES results in a polycistronic mRNA that is translated into multiple individual proteins or peptides. In one embodiment the Internal Ribosome Entry DNA sequence has the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 19. In one embodiment a particular IRES is only used once in the genome. This may have benefits with respect to stability of the genome.

“High self-cleavage efficiency 2A peptide” or “2A peptide” as employed herein refers to a peptide which is efficiently cleaved following translation. Suitable 2A peptides include P2A, F2A, E2A and T2A. The present inventors have noted that once a specific DNA sequence encoding a given 2A peptide is used once, the same specific DNA sequence may not be used a second time. However, redundancy in the DNA code may be utilised to generate a DNA sequence that is translated into the same 2A peptide. Using 2A peptides is particularly useful when the cassette encodes polycistronic mRNA. Using 2A peptides results in a single polypeptide chain being translated which is modified post-translation to generate multiple individual proteins or peptides.

In one embodiment the encoded P2A peptide employed has the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 25. In one embodiment the encoded F2A peptide employed has the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 26. In one embodiment the encoded E2A peptide employed has the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 27. In one embodiment the encoded T2A peptide employed has the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 28.

In one embodiment an mRNA or each mRNA encoded by transgene is/are comprise a polyadenylation signal sequence, such as typically at the end of an mRNA sequence, for example as shown in SEQ ID NO: 20. Thus one embodiment the transgene or the transgene cassette comprises at least one sequence encoding a polyadenylation signal sequence.

“PolyA”, “Polyadenylation signal” or “polyadenylation sequence” as employed herein means a DNA sequence, usually containing an AATAAA site, that once transcribed can be recognised by a multiprotein complex that cleaves and polyadenylates the nascent mRNA molecule.

In one embodiment the polyadenylation sequence has the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 20.

In one embodiment the construct does not include a polyadenylation sequence. In one embodiment the regulator of gene expression is a splice acceptor sequence.

In one embodiment the sequence encoding a protein/polypeptide/peptide, such as an antibody or antibody fragment further comprises a polyadenylation signal.

Transgene Encodes

In one embodiment the transgene or transgenes independently encode a protein, peptide, RNA molecule, such as an RNA molecule. Advantageously the transgene can be delivered intra-cellularly and can subsequently be transcribed and if appropriate translated. Examples of genetic material encoded by a transgene include, for example antibodies or binding fragments thereof, chemokines, cytokines, immunomodulators, enzymes (for example capable of converting pro-drug in the active agent) and an RNAi molecule.

Peptide as employed herein refers to an amino acid sequence of 2 to 50 residues, for example 5 to 20 residues. Polypeptide as employed herein refers to an amino acid sequence of more than 50 residues without tertiary structure, in particular without secondary and tertiary structure. Protein refers to an amino acid sequence of more than 50 residues, with secondary and/or tertiary structure, in particular with second and tertiary structure.

In one embodiment the coding sequence encodes a therapeutic RNA, therapeutic peptide, therapeutic polypeptide or therapeutic protein (i.e. is a therapeutic gene).

Therapeutic gene as employed herein means a gene that encodes an entity that may be useful in the treatment, amelioration or prevention of disease, for example the gene expresses a therapeutic protein, polypeptide, peptide or RNA, which at least slows down, halts or reverses the progression of a disease, such as cancer.

In one embodiment the entity encoded by the transgene when transcribed or translated in a cell, such as a cancer cell, increases production of danger signals by the cell. “Danger signals” as employed herein refers to a variety of molecules produced by cells undergoing injury, stress or non-apoptotic death that act as alarm signals, for example by stimulating cells of the innate immune system to respond directly as well as serving to enhance activation of cells of the adaptive immune system.

It is known that the microenvironment of tumours often changes such that natural human immune responses are down regulated. Thus the ability to re-start the immune responses from within the tumour is potentially very interesting in the treatment of cancer.

In one embodiment the encoded therapeutic peptide or protein is designed to be secreted into the extracellular environment. In one embodiment the functional RNA, peptide, polypeptide or protein, such as the antibody is released into the external microenvironment of the cell, for example into the culture supernatant, or in vivo: tissue, stroma, circulation, blood and/or lymphatic system.

In one embodiment the peptide, polypeptide or protein, encoded by the transgene, comprises a signal sequence. Signal peptide as employed herein refers to a short 13-36 residue peptide sequence located at the N-terminal of proteins which assist the entry of the protein into the secretory pathway for secretion or membrane expression. In one embodiment the leader sequence (signal peptide) has the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 21 or 22.

In another embodiment the encoded therapeutic peptide or protein, such as an antibody is designed to be expressed as a membrane-anchored form in the surface membrane of the cell, for example by including encoding a transmembrane domain in the protein or a site for attachment of a lipid membrane anchor.

In one embodiment the functional RNA, peptide, polypeptide or protein, such as an antibody is released from the cell infected by the adenovirus, for example by active secretion or as a result of cell lysis. Thus in one embodiment the adenovirus lyses the cell, thereby releasing the functional RNA, peptide, polypeptide or protein, such as the antibody.

In another embodiment the encoded therapeutic peptide or protein, such as an antibody is designed to be retained within the intact cell.

Advantageously, functional RNA, peptide, polypeptide or protein, such as antibodies expressed by adenoviruses of the present disclosure can be detected in tissue in vivo as both mRNA (seeFIGS. 16A-16B,FIG. 41C) and antibody protein (seeFIG. 17A,FIG. 35B). Furthermore, the expressed functional RNA, peptide or protein, such as the antibody can bind its ligand in ELISA (seeFIG. 17B). Yet further, the functional RNA, peptide, polypeptide or protein, such as the antibody is detectable early (within 3 days of infection seeFIG. 18B) and the expression is sustained over several weeks (seeFIGS. 1A-17B7and18B).

In one embodiment adenoviruses of the present disclosure express functional RNA, peptide, polypeptide or protein, such as antibodies within about 3 days or more of infection, such as within about 36, 48, 60 or 72 hours, or such as 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6 days.

In one embodiment adenoviruses of the present disclosure express functional RNA, peptide, polypeptide or protein, such as antibodies for several weeks, such as about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6 weeks. Such as 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41 or 42 days.

Advantageously, functional RNA, peptide or protein expression, such as antibody expression is sufficiently high to be able to detect the functional RNA, peptide, polypeptide or protein, such as the antibody in the blood (seeFIG. 19,FIG. 35B).

In one embodiment, functional RNA, peptide or protein, such as antibodies expressed by the adenovirus of the present disclosure enter the blood stream and/or lymphatic system.

In one embodiment the adenovirus of the present disclosure is an oncolytic virus which has an enhanced therapeutic index for cancer cells.

In one embodiment the coding sequence encodes functional RNA, for example therapeutic RNA.

Functional RNA as employed herein refers to RNA which has a function other than to encode a protein or peptide and includes for examples include RNA constructs suitable for inhibiting or reducing gene activity, including RNAi, such as shRNA and miRNA. shRNA as employed herein refers to short hairpin RNA which is a sequence of RNA that makes a tight hairpin turn that can be used to silence target gene expression via RNA interference (RNAi). miRNA (microRNA) as employed herein refers to a small non-coding RNA molecule (containing about 22 nucleotides) which functions, via base-pairing with complementary sequences within mRNA molecules, to regulate gene expression at the transcriptional or post-transcriptional level. mRNA strands bound by miRNA are silenced because they can no longer be translated into proteins by ribosomes, and such complexes are often actively disassembled by the cell.

In one embodiment the transgene encodes a protein. Protein as employed herein includes a protein ligand, a protein receptor, or an antibody molecule.

Protein ligand as employed herein refers to cell surface membrane or secreted proteins binding fragments thereof, that bind to or otherwise engage with the cellular receptors to influence the function of the cell, for example by stimulating intracellular signalling and modulating gene transcription within the cell. In one embodiment the protein expressed is engineered to be expressed on the surface of the cell and/or secreted from the cell.

In one embodiment the protein encoded is an enzyme, for example an enzyme that assists in degrading the extra-cellular matrix of the tumour, for example a DNAse, a collagenase, a matrix metalloproteinase (such as MMP2 or 14) or similar.

Suitable antibodies and antibody fragments may be agonistic or antagonistic and include those with anticancer activity and those which modify host cell responses to the cancer, for example: an agonist or antagonistic antibody or antibody fragment may decrease vascularization or normalise vascularization of the tumour. In one embodiment agonistic antibodies or other encoded proteins may render the host cell more visible to the host's innate and adaptive immune responses, for example by expressing antigens, danger signals, cytokines or chemokines to attract and activate the same, or by binding to co-stimulatory or checkpoint pathway molecules to enhance adaptive immune responses.

Therapeutic antibody or antibody-binding fragment as employed herein refers to antibody or antibody-binding fragment which, when inserted in to the oncolytic virus, has a beneficial impact on a pathology in the patient, for example on the cancer being treated.

Beneficial impact as employed herein refers to a desirable and/or advantageous effect of the antibody being expressed in vivo.

Classes of therapeutic antibodies and antibody-binding fragments include: anti-EGF antibodies, anti-VEGF antibodies, anti-PDGF antibodies, anti-CTLA antibodies, anti-PD1 antibodies, anti-PDL1 antibodies and anti-FGF antibodies.

Registered therapeutic antibodies suitable for incorporation into viruses of the present disclosure include: abciximab, adalimumab, alemtzumab, basiliximab, belimumab, bevacizumab, brentuximab vedotin, canakinumab, cetuximab, certolzumab, daclizumab, denosumab, eculzumab, efalixumab, gemtuzumab, golimumab, ibritumomab tiuxetan, infliximab, ipilimumab, muromonab-CD3, ofatumumab, palivizumab, panitumumab, ranibizumab, rituximab, tocilizumab, tositumomab and trastuzumab.

In one embodiment the antibody variable region sequences of an antibody or antibody fragment employed are between 95 and 100% similar or identical to the variable regions of bevacizumab (also known as Avastin®), such as 96, 97, 98 or 99% similar or identical.

Also suitable for incorporation into viruses of the present disclosure are the coding sequences for those antibodies and binding fragments thereof which are approved for a cancer indications, for example trastuzumab, tositumomab, rituximab, panitumumab, ofatumumab, ipilimumab, ibritumomab tiuxetan, gemtuzumab, denosumab, cetuximab, brentuximab vedotin, avastin and adalimumab.

In one embodiment the antibody variable region sequences of an antibody or antibody fragment employed are between 95 and 100% similar or identical to the variable regions of a known antibody or an antibody disclosed herein.

As used herein “antibody molecule” includes antibodies and binding fragments thereof.

Antibody as employed herein generally refers to a full length antibody and bispecific or multi-specific formats comprising the same.

Antibody-binding fragments includes an antibody fragment able to target the antigen with the same, similar or better specificity to the original “antibody” from which it was derived. Antibody fragments include: Fab, modified Fab, Fab′, modified Fab′, F(ab′)2, Fv, single domain antibodies (e.g. VH or VL or VHH), scFv, bi, tri or tetra-valent antibodies, Bis-scFv, diabodies, triabodies, tetrabodies and epitope-binding fragments of any of the above (see for example Holliger and Hudson, 2005, Nature Biotech. 23(9):1126-1136; Adair and Lawson, 2005, Drug Design Reviews—Online 2(3), 209-217). The methods for creating and manufacturing these antibody fragments are well known in the art (see for example Verma et al., 1998, Journal of Immunological Methods, 216, 165-181). Other antibody fragments for use in the present invention include the Fab and Fab′ fragments described in international patent applications WO2005/003169, WO2005/003170 and WO2005/003171. Multi-valent antibodies may comprise multiple specificities e.g. bispecific or may be monospecific (see for example WO 92/22853, WO05/113605, WO2009/040562 and WO2010/035012).

Specific as employed herein is intended to refer to an antibody or fragment that only recognises the antigen to which it is specific or to an antibody or fragment that has significantly higher binding affinity to the antigen to which is specific in comparison to its binding affinity to antigens to which it is not specific, for example 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 times higher binding affinity.

Known antibodies or antibody-binding fragments can be employed to generate alternative antibody formats with the same CDRs or the same variable regions, for example, a full-length antibody can readily be converted into a Fab, Fab′ or scFv fragment.

A wide range of different forms of antibody may be employed in constructs of the present disclosure including antibody molecules from non-human animals, human antibody molecules, humanised antibody molecules and chimeric antibody molecules.

In one embodiment the antibody or binding fragment is monoclonal. Monoclonal antibodies may be prepared by any method known in the art such as the hybridoma technique (Kohler & Milstein, 1975, Nature, 256:495-497), the trioma technique, the human B-cell hybridoma technique (Kozbor et al., 1983, Immunology Today, 4:72) and the EBV-hybridoma technique (Cole et al., Monoclonal Antibodies and Cancer Therapy, pp 77-96, Alan R Liss, Inc., 1985).

In one embodiment the antibody or binding fragment is non-human, i.e. completely from non-human origin. This is possible because the antibodies and fragments can be delivered inside the cancer cell by the virus.

In one embodiment the antibody is chimeric, for example has human constant region(s) and non-human variable regions.

In one embodiment the antibody or binding fragment is human, i.e. from completely human origin.

In one embodiment the antibody or binding fragment is humanised. Humanised antibodies (which include CDR-grafted antibodies) are antibody molecules having one or more complementarity determining regions (CDRs) from a non-human species and a framework region from a human immunoglobulin molecule (see, for example U.S. Pat. No. 5,585,089; WO91/09967). It will be appreciated that it may only be necessary to transfer the specificity determining residues of the CDRs rather than the entire CDR (see for example, Kashmiri et al., 2005, Methods, 36, 25-34). Humanised antibodies may optionally further comprise one or more framework residues derived from the non-human species, for example from which the CDRs were derived.

In one embodiment the coding sequence encodes an antibody heavy chain an antibody light chain or an antibody fragment. Heavy chain (HC) as employed herein refers to the large polypeptide subunit of an antibody. Light chain (LC) as employed herein refers to the small polypeptide subunit of an antibody. In one embodiment the antibody light chain comprises a CL domain, either kappa or lambda.

Antibodies for use in the present disclosure may be obtained using any suitable a method known in the art. The antigen polypeptide/protein including fusion proteins, including cells (recombinantly or naturally) expressing the polypeptide (such as activated T cells) can be used to produce antibodies which specifically recognise the antigen. The polypeptide may be the ‘mature’ polypeptide or a biologically active fragment or derivative thereof.

Polypeptides, for use to immunise a host animal, may be prepared by processes well known in the art from genetically engineered host cells comprising expression systems or they may be recovered from natural biological sources. In the present application, the term “polypeptides” includes peptides, polypeptides and proteins. These are used interchangeably unless otherwise specified. The antigen polypeptide may in some instances be part of a larger protein such as a fusion protein for example fused to an affinity tag.

Antibodies generated against the antigen polypeptide may be obtained, where immunisation of an animal is necessary, by administering the polypeptides to an animal, preferably a non-human animal, using well-known and routine protocols, see for example Handbook of Experimental Immunology, D. M. Weir (ed.), Vol 4, Blackwell Scientific Publishers, Oxford, England, 1986). Many warm-blooded animals, such as rabbits, mice, rats, sheep, cows, camels or pigs may be immunised. However, mice, rabbits, pigs and rats are generally most suitable.

Antibodies for use in the invention may also be generated using single lymphocyte antibody methods by cloning and expressing immunoglobulin variable region cDNAs generated from single lymphocytes selected for the production of specific antibodies by, for example, the methods described by Babcook, J. et al., 1996, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 93(15):7843-78481; WO92/02551; WO2004/051268 and International Patent Application number WO2004/106377.

Screening for antibodies can be performed using assays to measure binding to antigen and/or assays to measure the ability to antagonise the receptor. An example of a binding assay is an ELISA, in particular, using a fusion protein (optionally comprising a reporter), which is immobilized on plates, and employing a conjugated secondary antibody to detect anti-antigen antibody bound to the fusion protein.

The constant region domains of the antibody molecule of the present invention, if present, may be selected having regard to the proposed function of the antibody molecule, and in particular the effector functions which may be required. For example, the constant region domains may be human IgA, IgD, IgE, IgG or IgM domains. In particular, human IgG constant region domains may be used, especially of the IgG1 and IgG3 isotypes when the antibody molecule is intended for therapeutic uses and antibody effector functions are required. Alternatively, IgG2 and IgG4 isotypes may be used when the antibody molecule is intended for therapeutic purposes and antibody effector functions are not required, e.g. for simply agonising activity or for target neutralization. It will be appreciated that sequence variants of these constant region domains may also be used. For example IgG4 molecules in which the serine at position 241 has been changed to proline as described in Angal et al., Molecular Immunology, 1993, 30 (1), 105-108 may be used.

For certain antibody functions, for example for delivering activation signals to cells bearing the antibody's target molecule, such as cells of the immune system, it may be advantageous to use membrane-anchored versions of the antibody such that the antibody will be expressed on the surface of the expressing cell. Such cell surface expressed binding molecules enable efficient multimeric interactions between the target signalling molecule on the surface of another cell which enhances delivery of activation signals from the target molecule into the recipient cell.

Advantageously, the adenoviruses of the present disclosure can express full length and scFv forms of antibodies.

In one embodiment the sequence encoding the antibody or antibody fragment comprise or further comprises an internal ribosome entry sequence. Internal ribosome entry sequence (IRES) as employed herein means a nucleotide sequence that allows for translation initiation in the middle of a messenger RNA (mRNA) sequence.

In one embodiment the encoded therapeutic proteins or peptides are target specific proteins, polypeptides or peptides.

Target specific proteins or peptides as employed herein refers to either the target proteins themselves, or different proteins or peptides that directly bind (for example are specific to the target) to or otherwise modify the levels of the target proteins or peptides. An example of the former would be a cytokine, whilst an example of the latter would be an antibody against that cytokine.

Targets of interest generally relate to particular cells, cellular products, antigens or signalling pathways associated with disease, particularly cancer. Target, depending on the context, also relates to mRNA or similar transcribed from the gene encoding the protein or polypeptide, which for example can be inhibited by RNAi type technology. Thus in the context of RNA, such as RNAi technology the target is the mRNA which is encoded by the gene of the target.

Examples of targets of interest include, but are not limited to, stimulatory T-cell co-receptors and ligands thereto, checkpoint inhibitory T-cell co-receptor molecules and ligands thereto, receptors and ligands thereto expressed by regulatory T-cells, myeloid derived suppressor cells and immunosuppressive immune cells, dendritic cell and antigen-presenting cell receptors and ligands thereto, antigen processing and presentation mediators, cytokines and cytokine receptors, chemokines and chemokine receptors, transcription factors and regulators of transcription, intracellular trafficking molecules and regulators of cell function, tumour cell and tumour microenvironmental receptors and products, intracellular tumour cell enzymes such as IDO, antigens for recognition by immune cells.

Thus in one embodiment target as employed herein refers to a protein or polypeptide which can, for example be inhibited, neutralised or activated by, for example an antibody or binding fragment there, as appropriate. Target in the context of cytokines refers to a cytokine per se or an antibody or binding fragment thereof specific to the cytokine. Thus, the virus may encode and express the cytokine itself as release of thereof may stimulate “host” immune responses. In the context of ligands, mutated forms of the ligand can be encoded by the virus which compete with the natural ligand to bind the receptor. The mutated ligand may have increased binding affinity for the receptor, for example such that it has a slow off-rate thereby occupying the receptor and increasing or decreasing signalling therefrom. Alternatively, the activity of the mutated ligand may be reduced in comparison to the wild-type ligand, thereby reducing the binding and overall activity through the receptor from the natural ligand.

In one embodiment the virus or construct according to the present disclosure encodes a pro-drug, an immunomodulator and/or an enzyme.

Pro-drug as employed herein means a molecule that is administered as an inactive (or less than fully active) derivative that is subsequently converted to an active pharmacological agent in the body, often through normal metabolic processes. A pro-drug serves as a type of precursor to the intended drug. A pro-drug converting enzyme serves as the enzyme that converts a pro-drug to its pharmacologically active form.

Immunomodulator as employed herein means a modulator of immune response. Immunomodulators function in adjustment of the immune response to a desired level, as in immunopotentiation, immunosuppression, or induction of immunologic tolerance.

Enzyme as employed herein means a substance that acts as a catalyst in living organisms, regulating the rate at which chemical reactions proceed without itself being altered in the process.

The following is a non-exhaustive discussion of exemplary target peptides/polypeptides and proteins.

In one embodiment the target is one or more independently selected from the group comprising: CTLA-4, PD-1, PD-L1, PD-L2, VISTA, B7-H3, B7-H4, HVEM, ILT-2, ILT-3, ILT-4, TIM-3, LAG-3, BTLA, LIGHT or CD160, for example CTLA-4, PD-1, PD-L1 and PD-L2. In one embodiment there is provided an antibody or binding fragment thereof which is specific to one of the same. Thus in one embodiment a transgene or transgene cassette encodes an antibody or antibody fragment specific to CTLA-4, PD-1, PD-L1 or PD-L2. In one embodiment the adenovirus expresses an antibody or antibody fragment specific to CTLA-4, PD-1, PD-L1 or PD-L2.

In one embodiment the antibody is a checkpoint inhibitor antibody, for example anti-PD-L1. In one embodiment the adenovirus expresses full length anti-human PD-L1 antibody. In one embodiment the expression of full length anti-human PD-L1 antibody is under the control of an endogenous promoter, such as the major late promoter (MLP), in particular in position BY. In one embodiment the adenovirus expresses the scFv form of anti-human PD-L1 antibody. In one embodiment the expression of a scFv form of anti-human PD-L1 antibody is under the control of an endogenous promoter, such as the Major late promoter, in particular in position BY.

In one embodiment the amino acid sequence of the anti-PD-L1 antibody VH chain encoded by a virus or construction of the present disclosure is SEQ ID NO: 30. In one embodiment the amino acid sequence of the anti-PD-L1 antibody constant heavy chain is SEQ ID NO: 33 or 34. In one embodiment the amino acid sequence of the anti-PD-L1 antibody VL chain is SEQ ID NO: 32. In one embodiment the amino acid sequence of the anti-PD-L1 antibody constant light chain is SEQ ID NO: 35. In one embodiment amino acid sequence of the anti-PD-L1 scFv antibody fragment is SEQ ID NO: 37.

In one embodiment there is provided a virus or construct according to the present disclosure encoding an antibody or binding fragment thereof, for a full-length antibody or scFv specific to CTLA-4, for example as exemplified herein.

In one embodiment the target, is one or more independently selected from the group comprising CD16, CD25, CD33, CD332, CD127, CD31, CD43, CD44, CD162, CD301a, CD301b and Galectin-3. In one embodiment there is provided an antibody or binding fragment thereof specific thereto, for example a full-length antibody or a scFv.

In one embodiment the target, for example which may be targeted by an antibody or binding fragment, is one or more independently selected from the group comprising: FLT-3, FLT-3 ligand, TLRs, TLR ligands, CCR7, CD1a, CD1c, CD11b, CD11c, CD80, CD83, CD86, CD123, CD172a, CD205, CD207, CD209, CD273, CD281, CD283, CD286, CD289, CD287, CXCR4, GITR Ligand, IFN-α2, IL-12, IL-23, ILT1, ILT2, ILT3, ILT4, ILT5, ILT7, TSLP Receptor, CD141, CD303, CADM1, CLEC9a, XCR1 and CD304.

Certain TLR ligands have the ability to stimulate immune responses and, for example are employed as adjuvants. In one embodiment the virus encodes and secretes a TRL ligand.

In one embodiment the target is selected from an antigen processor and antigen presentation mediator, for example CTIIA or GILT.

In one embodiment the target, for example which may be targeted by an antibody or binding fragment, is a cancer target.

In one embodiment the target is one or more independently selected from the group comprising: OX40, OX40 ligand, CD27, CD28, CD30, CD40, CD40 ligand, CD70, CD137, GITR, 4-1BB, ICOS or ICOS ligand, for example CD40 and CD40 ligand.

In one embodiment the transgene cassette encodes a ligand comprising CD40 or CD40 ligand, or an antibody, antibody fragment or shRNA targeted to CD40 or CD40 ligand. In one embodiment the adenovirus expresses a ligand comprising CD40 or CD40 ligand, or an antibody, antibody fragment or shRNA targeted to (specific to) CD40 or CD40 ligand.

In one embodiment the target is one or more independently selected from the group comprising: IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-9, IL-12, IL-13, IL-17, IL-18, IL-22, IL-23, IL-24, IL-25, IL-26, IL-27, IL-33, IL-35. Interleukin-2 (IL-2), IL-4, IL-5, IL-7, IL-10, IL-15, IL-21, IL-25, IL-1RA, IFNα, IFNβ, IFNγ, TNFα, TGFβ, lymphotoxin α (LTA) and GM-CSF.

In one embodiment the transgene cassette encodes an antibody or antibody fragment specific to IL-12, IL-18, IL-22, IL-7, IL-15, IL-21, IFNα, IFNγ, TNFα, TGFβ or lymphotoxin α (LTA). In one embodiment the adenovirus expresses IL-12, IL-18, IL-22, IL-7, IL-15, IL-21, IFNα, IFNγ, TNFα, TGFβ or lymphotoxin α (LTA).

In one embodiment the amino acid sequence of IFNγ is SEQ ID NO: 41. In one embodiment the amino acid sequence of IFNα is SEQ ID NO: 42. In one embodiment the amino acid sequence of TNFα is SEQ ID NO: 40.

In one embodiment the target is a chemokine, for example one or more independently selected from the group comprising: IL-8, CCL5, CCL17, CCL20, CCL22, CXCL9, CXCL10, CXCL11, CXCL13, CXCL12, CCL2, CCL19, CCL21, CXCR2, CCR2, CCR4, CCR5, CCR6, CCR7, CCR8, CXCR3, CXCR4, CXCR5 and CRTH2.

In one embodiment the transgene cassette encodes an antibody or antibody fragment specific to CCL5, CXCL9, CXCL12, CCL2, CCL19, CCL21, CXCR2, CCR2, CCR4 or CXCR4. In the context of the chemokines target includes where the viruses encodes and expresses the chemokine, for example to induce or augment host immune responses to the cancer.

In one embodiment the adenovirus expresses an antibody or antibody fragment specific to CCL5, CXCL9, CXCL12, CCL2, CCL19, CCL21, CXCR2, CCR2, CCR4 or CXCR4.

In one embodiment the target is one or more independently selected from the group comprising: STAT3, STAT1, STAT4, STAT6, CTIIA, MyD88 and NFκB family members, for example the protein is targeted with an inhibitor, for example an antibody or bind fragment thereof, or mRNA transcribed from the relevant gene is inhibited by a mechanism, such as RNAi.

In one embodiment the target is HSp70 or a regulator of cell survival and death such as survivin, for example the protein is targeted with an inhibitor, for example an antibody or bind fragment thereof, or mRNA transcribed from the relevant gene is inhibited by a mechanism, such as RNAi.

In one embodiment the target is one or more independently selected from the group comprising: amphiregulin, BTC, NRG1a, NRG1b, NRG3, TGFα, LRIG1, LRIG3, EGF, EGF-L6, Epigen, HB-EGF, EGFR, Her2, Her3 and Her4, for example the protein is targeted with an inhibitor, for example an antibody or bind fragment thereof, or mRNA transcribed from the relevant gene is inhibited by a mechanism, such as RNAi.

In one embodiment the target is a ligand or receptor for one or more independently selected from the group comprising: hedgehog, FGF, IGF, Wnt, VEGF, TNF, TGFβ, PDGF and Notch.

In one embodiment the adenovirus expresses an antibody or antibody fragment specific to VEGF. In one embodiment the antibody is an anti-VEGF antibody. For example, such as an antibody having the amino acid sequence of the antibody Bevacizumab or equivalent thereto. In one embodiment the adenovirus expresses full length anti-human VEGF antibody. In one embodiment the expression of full length anti-human VEGF antibody is under the control of an endogenous promoter, such as the Major late promoter (MLP), in particular in position BY. In one embodiment the adenovirus expresses the scFv form of anti-human VEGF antibody. In one embodiment the expression of the scFv form of anti-human VEGF antibody is under the control of an endogenous promoter, such as the Major late promoter, in particular in position BY. In one embodiment the amino acid sequence of the anti-VEGF antibody VH chain is SEQ ID NO: 29. In one embodiment the amino acid sequence of the anti-VEGF antibody constant heavy chain is SEQ ID NO: 33 or 34. In one embodiment the amino acid sequence of the anti-VEGF antibody VL chain is SEQ ID NO: 31. In one embodiment the amino acid sequence of the anti-VEGF antibody constant light chain is SEQ ID NO: 35. In one embodiment amino acid sequence of the anti-VEGF scFv antibody fragment is SEQ ID NO: 36.

In one embodiment the target is IDO.

In one embodiment the target is an antigen for recognition by immune cells for one or more proteins or peptides independently selected from the group comprising: immunogenic proteins from infectious organisms, such as cytomegalovirus antigens, influenza antigens, hepatitis B surface and core antigens, diphtheria toxoid, Crm197, tetanus toxoid; peptides derived from such antigens which are known T-cell or antibody epitopes, or genetically engineered composites or multimers of such antigens; tumour-derived proteins as antigens; peptides derived from such antigens which are known T-cell or antibody epitopes; and genetically engineered composites or multimers of such antigens for example WT1, MUC1, LMP2, idiotype, HPV E6&E7, EGFRvIII, HER-2/neu, MAGE A3, p53 nonmutant, p53 mutant, NY-ESO-1, GD2, PSMA, PCSA, PSA, gp100, CEA, MelanA/MART1, Ras mutant, proteinase3 (PR1), bcr-abl, tyrosinase, survivin, PSA, hTERT, particularly WT1, MUC1, HER-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, survivin or hTERT.

The skilled person will appreciate that many possibilities exist for nucleic acid sequences that encode a given amino acid sequence due to codon redundancy, that silent nucleic acid base pair mutations are tolerated and all nucleic acid sequences that encode a given amino acid sequence as defined in any of the SEQ ID NO's are envisioned by the present disclosure.

In one embodiment the peptide, polypeptide or protein encoded by a transgene is a mimotope. As employed herein a mimotope is a molecule, often a peptide, which mimics the structure of an epitope. The latter property causes an antibody response similar to the one elicited by the epitope. An antibody for a given epitope antigen will recognize a mimotope which mimics that epitope. Mimotopes are commonly obtained from phage display libraries through biopanning. Vaccines utilizing mimotopes are being developed. Thus antibodies of known specificity may be used to screen libraries (e.g. peptide libraries in phage display—for example Ab sequence libraries or non-antibody peptide libraries, particularly those optimized for producing peptides with more stable 3D conformations)—Generation of mimotopes is well described in the art (see Tribbick G, Rodda S. Combinatorial methods for discovery of peptide ligands which bind to antibody-like molecules. J Mol Recognit. 2002 15(5):306-10; Masuko T, Ohno Y, Masuko K, Yagi H, Uejima S, Takechi M, Hashimoto Y. Towards therapeutic antibodies to membrane oncoproteins by a robust strategy using rats immunized with transfectants expressing target molecules fused to green fluorescent protein. Cancer Sci. 2011 102(1):25-35).

In one embodiment a mimotope or other designed vaccine antigens are encoded by a transgene and expressed in order to induce an antibody response in the recipient patient, wherein the antibodies induced have the desired therapeutic effect. In one embodiment GFP-peptide fusion proteins, with peptide sequences from desired human ligand, are used to induce anti-self target antibody responses, for example a peptide region of PD-L1 that is known to be important for binding to target molecule PD-1 may be genetically linked with GFP or other highly immunogenic foreign carrier proteins such that an immune antibody response to the peptide includes antibodies that cross-react with the native PDL1 molecule and thus serve to block PD-L1:PD-1 interactions in the same way as directly encoding an anti-PDL1 antibody would. Concepts for vaccines inducing ant-self therapeutic antibody responses are well described in the art (see Spohn G, Bachmann M F. Therapeutic vaccination to block receptor-ligand interactions. Expert Opin Biol Ther. 2003 3(3):469-76; Link A, Bachmann M F. Immunodrugs: breaking B- but not T-cell tolerance with therapeutic anticytokine vaccines. Immunotherapy 2010 2(4):561-74; Delavallée L, Assier E, Semerano L, Bessis N, Boissier M C. Emerging applications of anticytokine vaccines. Expert Rev Vaccines. 2008 7(10):1507-17).

In one or more embodiments the transgene employed encodes a sequence shown in any one of SEQ ID NO: 29 to 44, 67 & 70-71.

Advantageously adenoviruses of the present disclosure express and release antibody forms and other proteins such as cytokines encoded by a transgene therein into the culture supernatant in vitro or into tumour tissue stroma in vivo (seeFIGS. 4A-8, 11A-12, 16A-19B, 28A-29D, 33A-33B, 35A-35C, 38A-40D, 42A-43C, 47A-47D, 49A-49C, 51A-51D).

Leader sequences may assist the encoded proteins/polypeptide or peptide exiting the cancer cell. Therefore, in one embodiment the encoded “protein” comprises a leader sequence. Leader sequence as employed herein refers to a polynucleotide sequence located between the promoter sequence and the coding region which can regulate gene expression at the level of transcription or translation.

In one embodiment the coding sequence encodes a peptide. Peptide as employed herein refers to an amino acid chain which is not a complete functional protein. Typically a fragment which retains some or all of the function of the protein that it is a fragment of, or can be recognized by the immune system, for example peptides of 8 or more amino acids that can be recognized by T-cells.

In one embodiment the transgene is a reporter gene encoding, for example an imaging agent including bioluminescent, fluorescent imaging agents (including activatable fluorescent imaging agents), such as luciferase, GFP or eGFP or red fluorescent protein.

Reporter gene or reporter sequence as employed herein means a gene or DNA sequence that produces a product easily detected in eukaryotic cells and may be used as a marker to determine the activity of another gene with which its DNA has been closely linked or combined. Reporter genes confer characteristics on cells or organisms expressing them that are easily identified and measured, or are selectable markers. Reporter genes are often used as an indication of whether a certain gene has been taken up by or expressed in the cell or organism population. Examples of common reporter genes include, but are not limited to, LacZ, luciferase, GFP, eGFP, neomycin phosphotransferase, chloramphenicol acetyltransferase, sodium iodide symporter (NIS), nitroreductase (e.g. NfsA, NfsB) intracellular metalloproteins, HSV1-tk or oestrogen receptor.

In one embodiment the genetic material (in particular the transgene) does not encode or express a reporter gene such as an imaging agent, luciferase, GFP or eGFP.

In one embodiment the amino acid sequence of NIS is SEQ ID NO: 67.

Viruses according to the present disclosure can be investigated for their preference for a specific tumour type by examination of its lytic potential in a panel of tumor cells, for example colon tumor cell lines include HT-29, DLD-1, LS174T, LS1034, SW403, HCT116, SW48, and Colo320DM. Any available colon tumour cell lines would be equally useful for such an evaluation.

Prostate cell lines include DU145 and PC-3 cells. Pancreatic cell lines include Panc-1 cells. Breast tumour cell lines include MDA231 cell line and ovarian cell lines include the OVCAR-3 cell line. Hemopoietic cell lines include, but are not limited to, the Raji and Daudi B-lymphoid cells, K562 erythroblastoid cells, U937 myeloid cells, and HSB2 T-lymphoid cells. Other available tumour cell lines are equally useful.

The present disclosure also extends to novel sequences disclosed herein. In one embodiment the virus is shown in any one of sequences discloses herein, for example SEQ ID NOs: 1 to 9, SEQ ID NOs: 48-53 SEQ ID NO: 56-63, SEQ ID NO: 66, SEQ ID NO: 68-69 and SEQ ID NO: 72-73.

Formulations

The present disclosure relates also extends to a pharmaceutical formulation of a virus as described herein.

In one embodiment there is provided a liquid parenteral formulation, for example for infusion or injection, of a replication capable oncolytic according to the present disclosure wherein the formulation provides a dose in the range of 1×1010to 1×1014viral particles per volume of dose.

Parenteral formulation means a formulation designed not to be delivered through the GI tract. Typical parenteral delivery routes include injection, implantation or infusion. In one embodiment the formulation is provided in a form for bolus delivery.

In one embodiment the parenteral formulation is in the form of an injection. Injection includes intravenous, subcutaneous, intra-tumoral or intramuscular injection. Injection as employed herein means the insertion of liquid into the body via a syringe. In one embodiment the method of the present disclosure does not involve intra-tumoral injection.

In one embodiment the parenteral formulation is in the form of an infusion.

Infusion as employed herein means the administration of fluids at a slower rate by drip, infusion pump, syringe driver or equivalent device. In one embodiment the infusion is administered over a period in the range of 1.5 minutes to 120 minutes, such as about 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 15, 16, 17, 18, 19 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 65, 80, 85, 90, 95, 100, 105, 110 or 115 minutes.

In one embodiment one dose of the formulation less than 100 mls, for example 30 mls, such as administered by a syringe driver.

In one embodiment the injection is administered as a slow injection, for example over a period of 1.5 to 30 minutes.

In one embodiment the formulation is for intravenous (i.v.) administration. This route is particularly effective for delivery of oncolytic virus because it allows rapid access to the majority of the organs and tissue and is particular useful for the treatment of metastases, for example established metastases especially those located in highly vascularised regions such as the liver and lungs.

Therapeutic formulations typically will be sterile and stable under the conditions of manufacture and storage. The composition can be formulated as a solution, microemulsion, liposome, or other parenteral formulation suitable for administration to a human and may be formulated as a pre-filled device such as a syringe or vial, particular as a single dose.

The formulation will generally comprise a pharmaceutically acceptable diluent or carrier, for example a non-toxic, isotonic carrier that is compatible with the virus, and in which the virus is stable for the requisite period of time.

The carrier can be a solvent or dispersion medium containing, for example, water, ethanol, polyol (for example, glycerol, propylene glycol, and liquid polyethylene glycol, and the like), and suitable mixtures thereof. The proper fluidity can be maintained, for example, by the use of a dispersant or surfactant such as lecithin or a non-ionic surfactant such as polysorbate 80 or 40. In dispersions the maintenance of the required particle size may be assisted by the presence of a surfactant. Examples of isotonic agents include sugars, polyalcohols such as mannitol, sorbitol, or sodium chloride in the composition.

In one embodiment parenteral formulations employed may comprise one or more of the following a buffer, for example 4-(2-hydroxyethyl)-1-piperazineethanesulfonic acid, a phosphate buffer and/or a Tris buffer, a sugar for example dextrose, mannose, sucrose or similar, a salt such as sodium chloride, magnesium chloride or potassium chloride, a detergent such as a non-ionic surfactant such as briji, PS-80, PS-40 or similar. The formulation may also comprise a preservative such as EDTA or ethanol or a combination of EDTA and ethanol, which are thought to prevent one or more pathways of possible degradation.

In one embodiment the formulation will comprise purified oncolytic virus according to the present disclosure, for example 1×1010to 1×1014viral particles per dose, such as 1×1010to 1×1012viral particles per dose. In one embodiment the concentration of virus in the formulation is in the range 2×108to 2×1014vp/mL, such as 2×1012vp/ml.

In one embodiment the parenteral formulation comprises glycerol.

In one embodiment the formulation comprises oncolytic adenovirus as described herein, HEPES (N-2-hydroxyethylpiperazine-N′-2-ethanesulfonic acid), glycerol and buffer.

In one embodiment the parenteral formulation consists of virus of the disclosure, HEPES for example 5 mM, glycerol for example 5-20% (v/v), hydrochloric acid, for example to adjust the pH into the range 7-8 and water for injection.

In one embodiment 0.7 mL of virus of the disclosure at a concentration of 2×1012vp/mL is formulated in 5 mM HEPES, 20% glycerol with a final pH of 7.8.

A thorough discussion of pharmaceutically acceptable carriers is available in Remington's Pharmaceutical Sciences (Mack Publishing Company, N.J. 1991).

In one embodiment the formulation is provided as a formulation for topical administrations including inhalation.

Suitable inhalable preparations include inhalable powders, metering aerosols containing propellant gases or inhalable solutions free from propellant gases. Inhalable powders according to the disclosure will generally contain a virus as described herein with a physiologically acceptable excipient.

These inhalable powders may include monosaccharides (e.g. glucose or arabinose), disaccharides (e.g. lactose, saccharose, maltose), oligo- and polysaccharides (e.g. dextranes), polyalcohols (e.g. sorbitol, mannitol, xylitol), salts (e.g. sodium chloride, calcium carbonate) or mixtures of these with one another. Mono- or disaccharides are suitably used, the use of lactose or glucose, particularly but not exclusively in the form of their hydrates.

Particles for deposition in the lung require a particle size less than 10 microns, such as 1-9 microns for example from 0.1 to 5 μm, in particular from 1 to 5 μm. The particle size of the carrying the virus is of primary importance and thus in one embodiment the virus according to the present disclosure may be adsorbed or absorbed onto a particle, such as a lactose particle of the given size.

The propellant gases which can be used to prepare the inhalable aerosols are known in the art. Suitable propellant gases are selected from among hydrocarbons such as n-propane, n-butane or isobutane and halohydrocarbons such as chlorinated and/or fluorinated derivatives of methane, ethane, propane, butane, cyclopropane or cyclobutane. The above-mentioned propellant gases may be used on their own or in mixtures thereof.

Particularly suitable propellant gases are halogenated alkane derivatives selected from among TG 11, TG 12, TG 134a and TG227. Of the abovementioned halogenated hydrocarbons, TG134a (1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane) and TG227 (1,1,1,2,3,3,3-heptafluoropropane) and mixtures thereof are particularly suitable.

The propellant gas-containing inhalable aerosols may also contain other ingredients, such as cosolvents, stabilisers, surface-active agents (surfactants), antioxidants, lubricants and means for adjusting the pH. All these ingredients are known in the art.

The propellant gas-containing inhalable aerosols according to the invention may contain up to 5% by weight of active substance. Aerosols according to the invention contain, for example, 0.002 to 5% by weight, 0.01 to 3% by weight, 0.015 to 2% by weight, 0.1 to 2% by weight, 0.5 to 2% by weight or 0.5 to 1% by weight of active ingredient.

Alternatively topical administrations to the lung may also be by administration of a liquid solution or suspension formulation, for example employing a device such as a nebulizer, for example, a nebulizer connected to a compressor (e.g., the Pari LC-Jet Plus® nebulizer connected to a Pari Master® compressor manufactured by Pari Respiratory Equipment, Inc., Richmond, Va.).

The virus of the invention can be delivered dispersed in a solvent, e.g. in the form of a solution or a suspension, for example as already described above for parenteral formulations. It can be suspended in an appropriate physiological solution, e.g., saline or other pharmacologically acceptable solvent or a buffered solution. Buffered solutions known in the art may contain 0.05 mg to 0.15 mg disodium edetate, 8.0 mg to 9.0 mg NaCl, 0.15 mg to 0.25 mg polysorbate, 0.25 mg to 0.30 mg anhydrous citric acid, and 0.45 mg to 0.55 mg sodium citrate per 1 ml of water so as to achieve a pH of about 4.0 to 5.0.

The therapeutic suspensions or solution formulations can also contain one or more excipients. Excipients are well known in the art and include buffers (e.g., citrate buffer, phosphate buffer, acetate buffer and bicarbonate buffer), amino acids, urea, alcohols, ascorbic acid, phospholipids, proteins (e.g., serum albumin), EDTA, sodium chloride, liposomes, mannitol, sorbitol, and glycerol. Solutions or suspensions can be encapsulated in liposomes or biodegradable microspheres. The formulation will generally be provided in a substantially sterile form employing sterile manufacture processes.

This may include production and sterilization by filtration of the buffered solvent/solution used for the formulation, aseptic suspension of the antibody in the sterile buffered solvent solution and dispensing of the formulation into sterile receptacles by methods familiar to those of ordinary skill in the art.

Nebulisable formulation according to the present disclosure may be provided, for example, as single dose units (e.g., sealed plastic containers or vials) packed in foil envelopes. Each vial contains a unit dose in a volume, e.g., 2 mL, of solvent/solution buffer.

Treatment

In a further aspect the present disclosure extends to a virus or a formulation thereof as described herein for use in treatment, in particular for the treatment of cancer.

In one embodiment the method of treatment is for use in the treatment of a tumour.

Tumour as employed herein is intended to refer to an abnormal mass of tissue that results from excessive cell division that is uncontrolled and progressive, also called a neoplasm. Tumours may be either benign (not cancerous) or malignant. Tumour encompasses all forms of cancer and metastases.

In one embodiment the tumour is a solid tumour. The solid tumour may be localised or metastasised.

In one embodiment the tumour is of epithelial origin.

In one embodiment the tumour is a malignancy, such as colorectal cancer, hepatoma, prostate cancer, pancreatic cancer, breast cancer, ovarian cancer, thyroid cancer, renal cancer, bladder cancer, head and neck cancer or lung cancer.

In one embodiment the tumour is a colorectal malignancy.

Malignancy as employed herein means cancerous cells.

In one embodiment the oncolytic adenovirus is employed in the treatment or prevention of metastasis.

In one embodiment the method or formulation herein is employed in the treatment of drug resistant cancers.

In one embodiment the virus is administered in combination with the administration of a further cancer treatment or therapy.

In one embodiment there is provided a virus or formulation according to the present disclosure for use in the manufacture of a medicament for the treatment of cancer, for example a cancer described above.

In a further aspect there is provide a method of treating cancer comprising administering a therapeutically effective amount of a virus or formulation according to the present disclosure to a patient in need thereof, for example a human patient.

In one embodiment the oncolytic virus or formulation herein is administered in combination with another therapy.

“In combination” as employed herein is intended to encompass where the oncolytic virus is administered before, concurrently and/or post cancer treatment or therapy.

Cancer therapy includes surgery, radiation therapy, targeted therapy and/or chemotherapy. Cancer treatment as employed herein refers to treatment with a therapeutic compound or biological agent, for example an antibody intended to treat the cancer and/or maintenance therapy thereof.

In one embodiment the cancer treatment is selected from any other anti-cancer therapy including a chemotherapeutic agent, a targeted anticancer agent, radiotherapy, radio-isotope therapy or any combination thereof.

In one embodiment the virus of the present disclosure such as an oncolytic adenovirus may be used as a pre-treatment to the therapy, such as a surgery (neoadjuvant therapy), to shrink the tumour, to treat metastasis and/or prevent metastasis or further metastasis. The oncolytic adenovirus may be used after the therapy, such as a surgery (adjuvant therapy), to treat metastasis and/or prevent metastasis or further metastasis.

Concurrently as employed herein is the administration of the additional cancer treatment at the same time or approximately the same time as the oncolytic adenovirus formulation. The treatment may be contained within the same formulation or administered as a separate formulation.

In one embodiment the virus is administered in combination with the administration of a chemotherapeutic agent.

Chemotherapeutic agent as employed herein is intended to refer to specific antineoplastic chemical agents or drugs that are selectively destructive to malignant cells and tissues. For example, alkylating agents, antimetabolites, anthracyclines, plant alkaloids, topoisomerase inhibitors, and other antitumour agents. Other examples of chemotherapy include doxorubicin, 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), paclitaxel, capecitabine, irinotecan, and platins such as cisplatin and oxaliplatin. The preferred dose may be chosen by the practitioner based on the nature of the cancer being treated.

In one embodiment the therapeutic agent is ganciclovir, which may assist in controlling immune responses and/or tumour vascularisation.

In one embodiment one or more therapies employed in the method herein are metronomic, that is a continuous or frequent treatment with low doses of anticancer drugs, often given concomitant with other methods of therapy.

Subgroup B oncolytic adenoviruses, in particular Ad11 and those derived therefrom such as EnAd may be particularly synergistic with chemotherapeutics because they seem to have a mechanism of action that is largely independent of apoptosis, killing cancer cells by a predominantly necrolytic mechanism. Moreover, the immunosuppression that occurs during chemotherapy may allow the oncolytic virus to function with greater efficiency.

Therapeutic dose as employed herein refers to the amount of virus, such as oncolytic adenovirus that is suitable for achieving the intended therapeutic effect when employed in a suitable treatment regimen, for example ameliorates symptoms or conditions of a disease. A dose may be considered a therapeutic dose in the treatment of cancer or metastases when the number of viral particles may be sufficient to result in the following: tumour or metastatic growth is slowed or stopped, or the tumour or metastasis is found to shrink in size, and/or the life span of the patient is extended. Suitable therapeutic doses are generally a balance between therapeutic effect and tolerable toxicity, for example where the side-effect and toxicity are tolerable given the benefit achieved by the therapy.

In one embodiment a virus or therapeutic construct according to the present disclosure (including a formulation comprising same) is administered weekly, for example one week 1 the dose is administered on day 1, 3, 5, followed by one dose each subsequent week.

In one embodiment a virus or therapeutic construct according to the present disclosure (including a formulation comprising same) is administered bi-weekly or tri-weekly, for example is administered in week 1 one on days 1, 3 and 5, and on week 2 or 3 is also administered on days 1, 3 and 5 thereof. This dosing regimen may be repeated as many times as appropriate.

In one embodiment a virus or therapeutic construct according to the present disclosure (including a formulation comprising same) is administered monthly.

In one embodiment the viruses and constructs of the present disclosure are prepared by recombinant techniques. The skilled person will appreciate that the armed adenovirus genome can be manufactured by other technical means, including entirely synthesising the genome or a plasmid comprising part of all of the genome. The skilled person will appreciate that in the event of synthesising the genome the region of insertion may not comprise the restriction site nucleotides as the latter are artefacts following insertion of genes using cloning methods.

In one embodiment the armed adenovirus genome is entirely synthetically manufactured, for example as per SEQ ID NO: 63.

The disclosure herein further extends to an adenovirus of formula (I) or a subformula thereof, obtained or obtainable from inserting a transgene or transgene cassette.

“Is” as employed herein means comprising.

In the context of this specification “comprising” is to be interpreted as “including”.

Embodiments of the invention comprising certain features/elements are also intended to extend to alternative embodiments “consisting” or “consisting essentially” of the relevant elements/features.

Where technically appropriate, embodiments of the invention may be combined.

Technical references such as patents and applications are incorporated herein by reference. Any embodiments specifically and explicitly recited herein may form the basis of a disclaimer either alone or in combination with one or more further embodiments.

The present invention is further described by way of illustration only in the following examples, which refer to the accompanying Figures, in which:

