NZ787417A

NZ787417A - Methods and compositions to enhance the anti-inflammatory effects of interleukin 10

Info

Publication number: NZ787417A
Application number: NZ787417A
Authority: NZ
Inventors: John Forsayeth; Raymond Chavez; Linda Watkins; Peter Grace
Original assignee: The Regents Of The University Of Colorado A Body Corporate; Xalud Therapeutics Inc
Filing date: 2017-04-21
Publication date: 2022-04-29

Abstract

This invention relates to methods and compositions for overcoming the dose- dependent down regulation of interleukin 10 (IL-10) by expressing, in addition to an interleukin 10 (IL-10) peptide, an IL-10 receptor type 1 (IL-10R1) peptide. The methods have use in treating a variety of diseases and symptoms, including but not limited to neuropathic or chronic pain; symptoms and physiological damage associated with multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury, ALS, neuroinflammation, arthritis and other diseases of the joint; and autoimmune diseases.

Description

METHODS AND COMPOSITIONS TO ENHANCE THE FLAMMATORY EFFECTS OF INTERLEUKIN 10 CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This is a divisional ation of New Zealand Patent Application No. 747633, which is the National Phase Application of , which claims priority from United States Patent Application Number 62/326,082, filed 22 April 2016, the entire contents are herein incorporated by nce.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION This invention relates to methods and compositions for attenuating deactivation of inflammatory signaling by expressing, in addition to an interleukin 10 (IL-10) peptide, an IL- receptor type 1 (IL-lORl) peptide. The methods have use in treating a variety of conditions including but not limited to athic pain; symptoms associated with multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury, ALS, neuroinflammation, arthritis and other diseases of the joint, as well as autoimmune diseases.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION In the following discussion certain es and methods will be described for background and introductory purposes. Nothing contained herein is to be construed as an "admission" of prior art. ant expressly reserves the right to demonstrate, where appropriate, that the articles and methods referenced herein do not constitute prior art under applicable statutory provisions.

Inflammation is associated with the release of nhancing pro-inflammatory cytokines and radicals, such as H202 and NO. In order to limit inflammation and damage, antiinflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-10 are also released; for example, in inflamed s, IL-10 is elevated to concentrations sufficient to cap excessive inflammation. Previous studies have shown that plasmid-directed expression of human eukin-10 (hIL-10) is lodynic when injected intrathecally in rodent models of neuropathic pain (see Watkins, USSN 14/066,581), and multiple sclerosis (MS) (see Watkins, et al., USSN 14/370,724), as well as intra-articularly in large animals with either naturally occurring (dogs) or ally-induced (horse) osteoarthritis (OA) (see Chavez, et al., USSN ,915). IND-enabling studies conducted over the past several years have provided convincing evidence that this approach to the treatment of chronic pain is likely to be both safe and effective in humans. In the course of these studies, however, it has become clear [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM that IL-10 s maximum signaling efficiency when present at concentrations below 1 ng/ml, and that increasing concentrations of IL-10 paradoxically result in down-regulation of IL-10. There is a need in the art for methods and compositions that can overcome the down- regulation of IL-10 signaling to achieve a more powerful IL-lO-mediated suppression of inﬂammation that is not dose-dependent. The present invention addresses this need.

Y OF THE INVENTION This invention relates to methods and compositions for overcoming dose-dependent egulation of IL-10 by expressing, in addition to an interleukin 10 (IL-10) peptide, an IL-lO receptor type 1 (IL-lORl) peptide (herein an "IL-lO/IL-lORl expression vector") in an antigen-presenting cell. The methods have use in treating chronic or neuropathic pain; symptoms and physiological damage associated with multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury, neuroinﬂammation, ALS, and tis and other diseases of the joint; as well as autoimmune diseases.

Thus, the present invention es in one embodiment a method for treating inﬂammation in a t comprising expression from one or more ial, viral, phage, cosmid or artificial chromosome vectors interleukin-10 (IL-10) peptide and interleukin 10 type 1 receptor (IL-lORl) peptide in antigen-presenting cells in the subject. In some aspects of this embodiment, the IL-lO peptide expressed in the antigen-presenting cells comprises a mutation in a hinge region of the IL-lO peptide, and in some aspects, the IL-lO peptide comprises a mutation where a phenylalanine at position 129 of an IL-lO wildtype sequence has been replaced with serine, threonine, alanine or cysteine. In some preferred aspects, the phenylalanine at position 129 of a wildtype sequence has been replaced with serine.

In some embodiments, the IL-10 and IL-lORl peptides are expressed from a single vector, and in some aspects, the vector is a viral , the viral vector is an adeno- associated virus vector, or the viral vector is a lentivirus vector. In some aspects, the IL-10 and l coding sequences are transcribed as a single mRNA, and the vector comprises a coding sequence for an internal ribosome entry site n the IL-10 and the IL-lORl coding sequences or a coding ce for a self-cleaving 2a peptide between the IL-10 and IL-lORl coding ces.

In some embodiments, the inﬂammation is caused by neuropathic or c pain and the one or more vectors are delivered by intrathecal injection. In yet other embodiments, the inﬂammation is caused by MS and the one or more vectors are red by intrathecal E [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM injection. In yet other embodiments, the inﬂammation is caused by an autoimmune disease and the one or more vectors are delivered by intrathecal injection. In further embodiments, the ation is located in a joint and the one or more vectors are delivered by intra- articular injection. In yet other embodiments, the inﬂammation is neuroinﬂammation.

In some embodiments, the n-presenting cells are selected from the group of monoblasts, monocytes, ytes, oligodendrocytes, lia, macrophages, B cells, dendritic cells, foam cells, lymphoblasts, and B lymphocytes. In some aspects of this embodiment, the antigen-presenting cells are removed from a subject to be treated, transduced with the one or more s in vitro, and administered back to the subject; however, in some aspects, the antigen-presenting cells are stably transformed with the one or more vectors and are maintained in culture.

Yet other embodiments of the invention provide a single viral or bacterial expression vector comprising the coding regions for eukin 10 (IL-10) and interleukin 10 type 1 receptor (IL-lORl). In some aspects of this ment, the vector is a viral vector comprising a single promoter driving the ription of the IL-10 and IL-lORl peptides, and further comprises a self-cleaving 2a peptide positioned between the coding region of the IL-lO peptide and the coding region of the IL-lORl peptide.

These and other aspects and uses of the invention will be described in the detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES Figure l is a plot of te old (g) versus days after injection for results obtained from injecting rats with AAVhIL-10 in a chronic constriction injury model of neuropathic pain.

Figure 2 is a plot of absolute threshold (g) versus days post injection for results obtained from injecting rats with a 1:1 mixture of AAV9-hIL-10 and AAV9-hIL10Rl in a chronic iction injury model of neuropathic pain.

Figure 3 is a plot of motor score versus time post onset of motor symptoms (days) for s obtained from intrathecally injecting rats with IL-10 encapsulated in PLGA microparticles (circles) in relapsing-remitting EAE rats. Motor scores: 0 = normal; 1 = tail tip paralysis; 2 = full tail paralysis; 3 = hind leg weak; 4 = hind-leg paralysis; 5 = full hind- leg paralysis; 6 — partial foreleg paralysis. N = 6 per group.

E [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM Figure 4 shows the s of microinjection of IL-10 plasmid into the brains of normal mice and an inﬂammatory mouse model of Down Syndrome (Dpl6).

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Definitions Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. All publications, published patent applications and patents mentioned herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety for the purpose of describing and disclosing devices, animal models, formulations and methodologies that may be used in connection with the presently described invention.

As used herein, en-presenting cell" refers to any one of various cells that display n complexed with major histocompatibility class II complexes (MHCs) on their surfaces en presentation) and that express IL-lO receptor type 2 (IL-10R2). Antigenpresenting cells of the present invention include but are not limited to astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, microglia, macrophages, B cells, dendritic cells and precursors thereof.

The term "anti-inﬂammatory" as used herein refers to sing the action or production of one or more pro-inﬂammatory nes produced by nerves, neurons, glial cells, endothelial cells, fibroblasts, muscle, immune cells or other cell types.

The term "anti-inﬂammatory cytokine" as used herein refers to a protein that decreases the action or production of one or more ﬂammatory cytokines or proteins produced by nerves, s, glial cells, elial cells, fibroblasts, muscle, immune cells or other cell types. atory cytokines and proteins include, without limitation, interleukin-1 beta (IL-1B), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-oc), interleukin-6 (IL-6), inducible nitric oxide tase (iNOS) and the like. The anti-inﬂammatory cytokine of st in the present invention is interleukin-10 (IL-10), full-length molecules and fragments of IL-10, as well as modified IL-lO peptides including those with deletions, additions and substitutions (either vative or non-conservative in nature), to the native sequence so long as the anti-inﬂammatory cytokine is therapeutically effective. Modifications may be deliberate, as through site-directed mutagenesis, or may be ntal, such as through mutations of hosts which produce the proteins or errors due to PCR amplification. ingly, active proteins are typically substantially homologous to the parent sequence, e. g., proteins are typically more than 70%, identical to the parent sequence.

E [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM The term "autoimmune disease" as used herein, refers to a pathologic state arising from an abnormal immune response of the body against substances and tissues normally t in the body.

"Chronic pain" as used herein refers to pain that persists longer than the temporal course of natural healing associated with a particular type of injury or disease process.

] The term DNA ol sequences" refers collectively to promoter sequences, polyadenylation signals, transcription termination sequences, upstream regulatory domains, origins of replication, internal me entry sites, enhancers, and the like, which collectively provide for the replication, transcription and translation of a coding sequence in a ent cell. Not all of these types of control sequences need to be present so long as the ed coding ce is capable of being replicated, transcribed and translated in an appropriate host cell.

A "coding sequence" of, e.g., IL-10 or IL-lORl or a sequence that "encodes" IL-10 or IL-lORl is a nucleic acid molecule that is transcribed (in the case of DNA) and translated (in the case of mRNA) into a polypeptide in viva when placed under the control of appropriate l sequences. The boundaries of the coding sequence are determined by nucleotides corresponding to a start codon at the amino terminus and nucleotides corresponding to a translation stop codon at the carboxy-terminus.

The terms "effective amount" or "therapeutically effective amount" of a eutic microparticle composition used in the methods of the invention refer to a nontoxic but sufficient amount of the therapeutic article ition to provide the d response, such as a decrease in pain, a decrease in inﬂammation, relief from symptoms caused by inﬂammatory diseases and/or preventing progression of physiological damage due to inﬂammatory es, and/or relief from symptoms caused by, e.g., MS, chronic pain, joint inﬂammation, neuroinﬂammation, and autoimmune diseases. The exact amount of the therapeutic anti-inﬂammatory composition of the present invention ed will vary from subject to subject, depending on the species, age, and general condition of the subject, the severity of the condition being treated, the particular IL-lO/IL-lORl expression vector to be delivered, mode of administration, and the like. Dosage parameters for the present methods are provided herein; however, optimization of an appropriate "effective" amount in any individual case may be determined by one of ordinary skill in the art via the methods set forth herein and routine experimentation.

] The term "excipient" refers to an inert substance added to a pharmaceutical composition of the invention to further facilitate administration of the therapeutic E [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM ed set by KIM microparticle composition. Examples, without limitation, of excipients e saline, calcium carbonate, calcium ate, various sugars and types of starch, cellulose derivatives, gelatin, hyaluronic acid optionally ated with a surfactant, Pluronic F-68, vegetable oils and polyethylene glycols.

The term "in vitro" refers to events that occur in an cial environment, e.g., in a test tube or reaction vessel, in cell culture, etc., rather than within an organism.

The term "joint" refers to an anatomical structure where two bones meet, ing the ligaments that connect the bones to one another, the s that attach muscles to the bones, the joint capsule, bursa and synovium. Joints that can be treated with the s herein include fixed, hinge, pivot or ball-and-socket joints.

The term "joint inﬂammation" or "joint pain" refers to all types of arthritis caused by inﬂammation, where rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis are the most common, as well as other conditions caused by inﬂammation of the joints including tendonitis, bursitis, inﬂammation of the ligament, synovitis, gout, and systemic lupus erythematosus.

As used herein, the term "multiple sclerosis" or "MS", refers to a progressive, neurodegenerative disease of the central nervous system, which occurs most often in a ing/remitting form in which a period of demyelination is followed by a period of functional recovery. The recovery stage involves remyelination via migration and maturation of endrocyte precursor cells or oligodendrocyte progenitor cells. However, as the disease progresses, remyelination fails with progressive loss of function. Possible explanations for remyelination failure of intact axons include defects in oligodendrocyte precursor cell recruitment to the site of demyelination or defects in oligodendrocyte precursor cell differentiation into myelinating oligodendrocytes. Although studies indicate that both aspects of oligodendrocyte precursor cell biology are altered in MS, the molecular mechanisms that orchestrate these processes within the adult central nervous system are incompletely understood but are known to include inﬂammation.

The term "nuclear ing ce" refers to a nucleic acid ce which functions to improve the expression efficiency of the anti-inﬂammatory cytokine in a cell.

] "Operably linked" refers to an arrangement of elements where the components so described are configured so as to m their usual function. Thus, control sequences operably linked to a coding sequence are capable of effecting the expression of the coding sequence. Control sequences need not be uous with the coding sequence so long as they on to direct the expression thereof. Thus, for e, intervening untranslated yet transcribed sequences can be present between a promoter sequence and the coding E ation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM sequence and the promoter sequence can still be considered "operably linked" to the coding sequence.

The term "promoter" is used herein in its ordinary sense to refer to a nucleotide region sing a DNA regulatory sequence, wherein the regulatory sequence is derived from a gene that is capable of binding RNA polymerase and initiating ription of a downstream (3'—direction) coding sequence. Transcription promoters can include "inducible promoters" (where expression of a polynucleotide sequence operably linked to the promoter is induced by an analyte, cofactor, regulatory protein, etc.), "repressible promoters" (where expression of a polynucleotide sequence operably linked to the promoter is induced by an analyte, cofactor, regulatory protein, etc.), and "constitutive promoters".

For the purpose of describing the relative on of nucleotide sequences in a particular c acid molecule throughout the instant application, such as when a particular nucleotide sequence is described as being ed eam," "downstream," "3 prime (3')" or "5 prime (5')" relative to another sequence, it is to be understood that it is the position of the sequences in the "sense" or "coding" strand of a DNA molecule that is being referred to as is conventional in the art.

The term rch tool" as used herein refers to any methods of the invention that uses the therapeutic microparticle composition for scientific inquiry, either academic or commercial in nature, including the development of other pharmaceutical and/or biological therapeutics. The research tools of the invention are not intended to be therapeutic or to be subject to regulatory al; rather, the research tools of the invention are intended to facilitate research and aid in such development activities, ing any activities performed with the intention to produce information to support a tory sion.

As used herein the term "selectable marker" refers to a gene introduced into a cell, particularly in the context of this invention into cells in culture that s a trait suitable for artificial selection. General use selectable markers are well-known to those of ordinary skill in the art.

The terms ct", "individual" or "patient" may be used interchangeably herein and refer to a vertebrate, preferably a mammal.

The term "therapeutic ition" or "therapeutic anti-inﬂammatory composition" as used herein refers to an IL-lORl expression vector composition that has the ability to decrease the concentration and/or inﬂammatory action of atory cytokines. The therapeutic compositions of the present invention are useful in treating, e.g., MS, chronic E [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM ed set by KIM ation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM pain, joint inﬂammation, neuroinﬂammation, and autoimmune diseases as measured in any of the known animal models or by assessment performed in humans.

"Treatment" or "treating" ation includes: (1) decreasing inﬂammation or causing the inﬂammation to occur with less intensity in a subject that may be predisposed to inﬂammation but does not yet experience or display symptoms, (2) inhibiting inﬂammation, i.e., arresting the development of or reversing symptoms or physiological damage caused by inﬂammation, or (3) decreasing or reversing the physiological damage resulting from inﬂammation.

A "vector" is a replicon, such as plasmid, phage, viral construct, cosmid, bacterial artificial chromosome, human-derived artificial some or yeast cial chromosome to which r heterologous DNA segment may be inserted. Vectors herein are used to transduce and s the IL-10 and IL-10R1 peptides.

The practice of the techniques bed herein may employ, unless otherwise indicated, conventional techniques and ptions of organic chemistry, polymer logy, molecular biology (including recombinant ques), cell biology, biochemistry, and sequencing technology, which are within the skill of those who practice in the art. Specific illustrations of suitable techniques can be had by reference to the examples herein. However, other lent conventional procedures can, of course, also be used. Such conventional techniques and descriptions can be found in standard laboratory manuals such as LeDoux (Ed.) (2005), Animal Models ofMovement ers (Academic Press); Chow, et al., (2008), Using Animal Models in Biomedical Research (World Scientific Publishing Co.); Weir and Blackwell (Eds.), Handbook of Experimental Immunology, Vols. I—IV (Blackwell Scientific Publications); Creighton , Proteins: Structures and Molecular Properties (W.H. Freeman and Company); Sambrook and Russell (2006), Condensed Protocols from Molecular Cloning: A Laboratory Manual; and Sambrook and l (2002), lar Cloning: A Laboratory Manual (both from Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press); , L. (1995) Biochemistry, Fourth Ed. (W.H. Freeman); Gait (1984), "Oligonucleotide Synthesis: A Practical Approach" (IRL Press); Nelson and Cox (2000), Lehninger, Principles of Biochemistry, Third Ed. (W. H. Freeman); and Berg et al. (2002) Biochemistry, Fifth Ed.

(W.H. Freeman); all of which are herein orated in their entirety by reference for all purposes.

Note that as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms "a, H H an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

E [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM ed set by KIM Where a range of values is provided, it is understood that each intervening value, between the upper and lower limit of that range and any other stated or ening value in that stated range is encompassed within the ion. The upper and lower limits of these r ranges may independently be included in the smaller ranges, and are also encompassed within the invention, subject to any specifically excluded limit in the stated range. Where the stated range includes one or both of the limits, ranges excluding either both of those included limits are also included in the invention.

In the following description, numerous ic details are set forth to provide a more thorough understanding of the present invention. However, it will be apparent to one of skill in the art that the present invention may be practiced without one or more of these specific details. In other instances, nown features and ures well known to those skilled in the art have not been described in order to avoid obscuring the invention.

Methods of the Invention The present ion provides methods for treating diseases and conditions associated with inﬂammation by administering to a subject a vector expressing an interleukin-10 (IL-10) coding ce and an interleukin-10 receptor type 1 (IL-lORl) coding sequence. In red embodiments, the IL-10 and IL-lORl peptides are expressed from a single expression vector; however, in alternative embodiments, the IL-10 and IL-lORl coding sequences are expressed from ent expression vectors. In some embodiments, the IL-lO/IL-lORl expression vector(s) is administered to a subject via, e.g., hecal administration (for treating, e.g., chronic pain, ammation, MS or autoimmune diseases) or by intra-articular injection (for treating joint inﬂammation). In yet other ments, the IL-lO/IL-lORl expression vector is administered to a subject via cell therapy; that is, the IL-lO/IL-lORl expression vector is first used to transform or transduce antigen-presenting cells—including antigen-presenting cells taken from a subject—then the antigen-presenting cells are administered to a subject. The methods of the present invention may be used to treat ation and physiological damage caused by inﬂammation associated with any disease or condition including but not limited to chronic pain, MS, autoimmune diseases, neuroinﬂammation, and joint inﬂammation.

It has been found that significant suppression of a large um of inﬂammatory mediators can be achieved through the actions of the anti-inﬂammatory cytokine interleukin (IL-10). IL-10 is a natural product of both astrocytes and microglia, and binds to receptors E [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM ation] KIM ed set by KIM expressed by these cells producing autocrine regulation of localized inﬂammatory responses produced by these cells. Because of the complexity of inﬂammation, any agent with the capacity to ablish normal microglial function must be able to target many different sub- systems simultaneously. IL-10 forms a tripartite complex with two receptors: IL-10R1 and IL-10R2; binding primarily to 1 (Ding et al., J. Immunol., 167(12):6884-92 (2001)) where this complex then engages IL-10R2. IL-10R2 is a more abundant and promiscuous signaling subunit than IL-10R1 that also complexes with IL-22 and its primary receptor (Kotenko et al., J. Biol. Chem., :2725-32 (2001)). IL-10R1 is present at low levels in the cell membrane of antigen-presenting cells and is lated by IL-10 signaling and by inﬂammatory mediators like LPS (Ledeboer et al., Eur. J. Neurosci., 16(7):1175-85 (2002)).

The upregulation enhances signaling h the IL-10R2 receptor ting downstream or molecules, such as JAK1, TYK2 and STAT 1 and STAT 3, and enhances signaling indirectly through PI3K-AKT. This coordinated signaling is responsible for the anti- inﬂammatory effect of IL-10 as well as its ability to stimulate IgG production and B-cell proliferation, even as it down-regulates antigen presentation on antigen-presenting cells, such as macrophages and T-cells. When IL-10 over-stimulates target cells, two members of a class of eight proteins called Suppressor of Cytokine Signaling (SOCS) are induced (Ding et al., J. l., 170(3):1383-91 (2003), Kazi et al., Cell Mol. LIfe Sci., 71(17):3297—3310 ). SOCSl and SOCS3 are induced by IL-10 in a concentration-dependent manner, but SOCSl specifically inhibits IL-10 signaling (Ding et al. 2003, supra) and IL-10R1 is ubiquitinated by SOCS3, an E3 ubiquitin , thereby down-regulating membrane-bound 1 by proteasomal targeting (Wei et al., J. Interferon Cytokine Res., 26(5):281-90 (2006)). The present inventors have found that, at concentrations that exceed about 0.5 ng/mL, IL-10 paradoxically inhibits its own activity. t being bound by any one theory, this inhibition may explain why virally-mediated IL-10 expression, gh constitutive, has an early therapeutic effect on neuropathic pain that wears off relatively quickly, whereas intrathecal plasmid IL-10 provides up to 12 weeks of effect. That is, it is this phenomenon that explains why very high levels of adenovirus-driven cerebrospinal ﬂuid IL-10 concentrations (~10 ng/mL) result in a lack of therapeutic effect on pain in contrast to the greater effect on pain from much lower concentrations of cerebrospinal ﬂuid IL-10 (~150 pg/mL) seen after IL-10 plasmid injection. The t invention thus provides a second generation therapy that dramatically widens the therapeutic window of IL-10 by co- expressing IL-10 with its primary receptor IL-10R1 to achieve constitutive autocrine signaling on antigen-presenting (IL-10R2-positive) cells.

E [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM The invention lly es methods and therapeutic anti-inﬂammatory compositions for treating inﬂammatory diseases and conditions, as well as the symptoms and physiological damage associated with inﬂammatory es. The invention also provides for using the s and therapeutic anti-inﬂammatory compositions of the invention in research of inﬂammatory diseases, including identifying pharmaceuticals, small molecules and/or biologics that may be used in conjunction in a "cocktail" with the therapeutic compositions of the present invention. The methods comprise the step of administering to a subject an IL-lO/IL-lORl expression vector comprising an IL-lO coding sequence and an IL- lORl coding sequence. The IL-lO/IL-lORl expression vectors of the present invention are generally suspended in a t to form a therapeutic composition. The anti-inﬂammatory therapeutic compositions may consist of a single "naked" bacterial vector or viral vector capable of expressing both of the IL-10 and IL-lORl coding ces and transforming or transducing n-presenting cells in a subject, two ial or viral vectors where one vector encodes the IL-lO peptide and the vector encodes the IL-lORl peptide, encapsulated vectors, or transduced antigen-presenting cells expressing IL-10 and IL-lORl.

Vectors and vector components The IL-lORl expression vector used in some embodiments of the methods of the present invention comprises a bacterial backbone id DNA) or a viral backbone; an IL-lO coding sequence; an IL-lORl coding sequence; optionally, at least one nuclear ing ce 5' (upstream), 3' (downstream) or both of the IL-lO coding sequence and/or the IL-lORl coding sequence; an internal ribosome entry site (IRES) or self-cleaving peptide; and at least one promoter and one or more other DNA control sequences. Though the ment where the IL-10 and IL-lORl peptides are expressed from a single vector is preferred and is the embodiment detailed in the instant specification, it is to be understood that the IL-lO peptide and the IL-lORl peptide can be encoded on separate vectors and co- delivered ly to a subject, or to a recipient antigen-presenting cell that is then delivered to a subject. Optionally, the IL-lO/IL-lORl expression vector also comprises one or more marker sequences to allow for selection of transformed cells during preparation of the IL- lO/IL-lORl expression vector or after delivery into recipient antigen-presenting cells.

The IL-lO/IL-lORl expression vector comprises at least one IL-lO coding ce.

IL-lO may be used in wild-type form, or the IL-lO may be a mutant IL-lO. One mutant IL-lO of particular interest contains one or more mutations that cause amino acid substitutions, E [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM additions or deletions as compared to wildtype IL-10 in the "hinge" region of the IL-10 n. The human IL-10 protein is a homodimer, where each monomer comprises six alpha helices A—>F, the length of which are 21, 8, 19, 20, 12 and 23 amino acids, tively.

Helices A—>D of one monomer non-covalently interact with s E and F of a second monomer, forming a non-covalent V-shaped homodimer. The "hinge" region targeted for mutation according to the present invention comprises the amino acids between the D and E alpha s on one or both monomers of wildtype IL-10. For example, mutant rat and human IL-10 proteins have been described in which the phenylalanine at position 129 of the pe sequence has been replaced with a serine residue. (See, e. g., Sommer, et al., WO2006/1305 80 and Milligan, et al., Pain, 126:294-308 (2006).) The resulting mutant IL-10 is referred to as IL-10F1293. Other substitutions for the wildtype phenylalanine at amino acid on 129 may be, e. g., threonine, alanine, or cysteine. Thus the present ion in yet another aspect encompasses one or more substitutions at amino acid position 129 or at other amino acids within the hinge region of the IL-10 protein.

IL-10R1 (NCBI Reference Sequence for human: NP_001549.2) is a glycoprotein with a single transmembrane domain expressed on the surface of certain cell types, chieﬂy antigen-presenting cells. IL-10R1 binds IL-10 and is essential for the biological activity of IL-10. The binding of IL-10 to its cell surface receptors activates the JAK-STAT signal transduction pathway. Following the ligand-receptor interaction, Jak1 (associated with IL- 10R1) and Tyk2 (associated with IL-10R2), members of the receptor-associated Janus tyrosine kinases (JAK) family, are orylated. IL-10R1 is t to proteasomal degradation after ubiquitination by SOCS3.

In some embodiments, the vector can be a bacterial, phage or cosmid vector. A bacterial vector can utilize any bacterial backbone known to those with skill in the art.

Backbones typically selected are those that, e.g., contain or lack riate restriction sites to allow ease of cloning, may be produced and isolated with ease, are not immunogenic, and the like. Exemplary vectors that may be used include but are not limited to those derived from recombinant bacteriophage DNA, d DNA or cosmid DNA. For example, plasmid vectors such as pBR322, pUC 19/18, pUC 118, 119 and the M13 mp series of vectors may be used. Bacteriophage vectors may e kgt10, kgtll, kgt18-23, XZAP/R and the EMBL series of bacteriophage vectors. Cosmid vectors that may be utilized e, but are not limited to, pJB8, pCV 103, pCV 107, pCV 108, pTM, pMCS, pNNL, 4, COS202, COS203, pWE15, pWE16 and the charomid 9 series of vectors. Additional vectors include bacterial cial chromosomes (BACs) based on a functional fertility plasmid (F- E ation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM ed set by KIM plasmid), yeast artificial chromosomes (YACs), and DNA constructs derived from the DNA of P1 bacteriophage (PACS).

In alternative embodiments the vector is a viral vector. In general, the five most commonly used classes of viral systems used in gene therapy can be categorized into two groups according to whether their genomes integrate into host cellular chromatin (oncoretroviruses and lentiviruses) or persist in the cell nucleus predominantly as extrachromosomal episomes -associated virus, adenoviruses and viruses).

One viral delivery system useful with the IL-10 sion constructs of the present ion is a system based on viruses from the family Retroviridae. iruses comprise single-stranded RNA animal viruses that are characterized by two unique es. First, the genome of a retrovirus is diploid, consisting of two copies of the RNA. Second, this RNA is transcribed by the virion-associated enzyme reverse transcriptase into double-stranded DNA.

This double-stranded DNA or provirus can then integrate into the host genome and-be passed from parent cell to progeny cells as a stably-integrated ent of the host genome.

] In some embodiments, lentiviruses are the preferred members of the retrovirus family for use in the present invention particularly in embodiments where transduced antigen- presenting cells are the therapeutic anti-inﬂammatory composition that is administered to a subject. Lentivirus vectors are often pseudotyped with vesicular stomatitis virus glycoprotein (VSV-G), and have been derived from the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the etiologic agent of the human acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS); Visna Maedi virus, which causes encephalitis (Visna) or nia in sheep; equine infectious anemia virus (EIAV), which causes autoimmune hemolytic anemia and encephalopathy in horses; feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), which causes immune deficiency in cats; bovine immunodeficiency virus (BIV) which causes lymphadenopathy and lymphocytosis in cattle; and simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV), which causes immune ency and encephalopathy in non-human es. s that are based on HIV generally retain <5% of the parental genome, and <25% of the genome is incorporated into packaging constructs, which minimizes the possibility of the generation of reverting replication-competent HIV.

Biosafety has been further increased by the development of self-inactivating vectors that contain deletions of the regulatory ts in the downstream long-terminal-repeat sequence, eliminating transcription of the packaging signal that is required for vector mobilization. The main advantage to the use of lentiviral vectors is that gene transfer is persistent in most tissues or cell types.

E [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM In another ment of the present invention, viruses from the Parvoviridae family are utilized. The Parvoviridae comprises a family of small single-stranded, non-enveloped DNA viruses with genomes imately 5000 nucleotides long. Included among the family members is adeno-associated virus (AAV), a dependent parvovirus that by definition requires ection with another virus ally an adenovirus or herpesvirus) to initiate and sustain a productive infectious cycle. In the absence of such a helper virus, AAV is still competent to infect or transduce a target cell by receptor-mediated binding and internalization, penetrating the nucleus in both viding and ng cells.

Adenoviruses (Ads) are a relatively well characterized homogenous group of viruses, including over 50 serotypes. See, e.g., International PCT Application No. WO 95/27071.

Adenoviruses are medium-sized (90—100 nm), nonenveloped (without an outer lipid bilayer) icosahedral viruses composed of a nucleocapsid and a double-stranded linear DNA genome.

There are 57 described serotypes in humans, which are responsible for 5—10% of upper respiratory infections in children, and many ions in adults as well. They are classified as group I under the ore classification scheme, meaning their genomes consist of -stranded DNA, and are the largest non-enveloped viruses. Because of their large size, they are able to be transported through the endosome (i.e., envelope fusion is not necessary).

The virion also has a unique "spike" or fiber associated with each penton base of the capsid that aids in attachment to the host cell via the coxsackie-adenovirus receptor on the surface of the host cell. The adenovirus genome is linear, non-segmented double-stranded (ds) DNA that is between 26 and 45 kb, allowing the virus to theoretically carry 22 to 40 genes.

Although this is icantly larger than other viruses in its ore group, it is still a very simple virus and is heavily reliant on the host cell for survival and replication. Once the virus has gained entry into the host cell, the endosome acidifies, which alters virus topology by causing capsid components to disassociate. With the help of cellular microtubules, the virus is transported to the nuclear pore complex, where the adenovirus particle disassembles. Viral DNA is subsequently ed, which can enter the nucleus via the nuclear pore. After this the DNA associates with e molecules. Thus, viral gene expression can occur and new virus particles can be generated.

Unlike iruses, adenoviral DNA does not integrate into the genome and is not replicated during cell on. Recombinant adenovirus-derived vectors, particularly those that reduce the ial for recombination and generation of wild-type virus, have also been constructed. See, International PCT Application Nos. WO 95/00655 and WO 95/11984.

E [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM Other viral or non-viral systems known to those skilled in the art also may be used to r IL-lO/IL-lORl expression vectors of the present invention to a subject, including but not d to gene-deleted adenovirus-transposon vectors that stably maintain virus-encoded transgenes in vivo through integration into host cells (see Yant, et al., Nature Biotech. :999-1004 (2002)); systems derived from Sindbis virus or Semliki forest virus (see Perri, et al., J. Virol. 74(20):9802-07 (2002)); systems derived from Newcastle disease virus or Sendai virus; or mini-circle DNA vectors devoid of ial DNA sequences (see Chen, et al., Molecular Therapy. 8(3):495-500 (2003)). Mini-circle DNA as described in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2004/0214329 discloses s that provide for tently high levels of nucleic acid transcription.

In addition to the IL-10 and IL-10Rl coding sequences, nuclear targeting sequences may be present in the IL-lO/IL-lORl expression vectors of the present invention. Nuclear targeting sequences are ces that promote expression of the proteins encoded by the IL- coding sequence and the IL-10R1 coding sequences. For example, in one aspect the nuclear targeting sequences may bind to nuclear transport chaperone proteins, facilitating uptake of the plasmid DNA by the cell nucleus. Such sequences include but are not limited to interspersed (or dispersed) DNA repeats or repetitive sequences such as transposable elements, ﬂanking or al repeats such as the long al repeats (LTRs) on retrovirus genomes such as SV40s, tandem s, and the inverted terminal repeats (ITRs) of viral genomes such as Adeno-Associated Virus and irus. In other aspects, the nuclear targeting sequences are sequences that act to bind transcription factors for import into the nucleus, such as enhancer sequences.

In addition to a vector backbone, IL-10 and IL-10Rl coding sequences and, ally, one or more r targeting sequences, the IL-lO/IL-lORl expression vector of the t invention comprises one or more DNA control ces, such as promoter sequences, polyadenylation signals, transcription termination sequences, upstream regulatory domains, s of replication, internal ribosome entry sites and the like, which collectively provide for the replication, transcription and translation of the IL-lO/IL-lORl coding sequences in a recipient cell. Not all of these control sequences need always be present so long as IL-lO/IL-lORl coding sequences are e of being replicated, transcribed and ated in an appropriate host cell.

In particular, the IL-lO/IL-lORl expression vectors of the present invention se at least one promoter driving transcription of the IL-10 and Il-10Rl coding sequences. In preferred embodiments, this promoter is a constitutive promoter. The term "constitutive" E [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM ionNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM when made in reference to a promoter means that the promoter directs transcription of an operably linked nucleic acid sequence in the absence of a specific stimulus (e.g., heat shock, chemicals, light, etc.). Typically, tutive promoters are capable of directing expression of a coding sequence in substantially any cell and any tissue. The ers used to transcribe the IL-lO/Il-lORl peptides ably are constitutive ers, such as the promoters for ubiquitin, CMV, B-actin, histone H4, EF-loc or PGK genes controlled by RNA polymerase II, or promoter elements controlled by RNA polymerase I. In preferred embodiments, promoter elements controlled by RNA polymerase III are used, such as the U6 promoters (U6-l, U6-8, U6-9, e.g), H1 promoter, 7SL er, the human Y promoters (hYl, hY3, hY4 and hY5), the human MRP2 promoter, Adenovirus VAl promoter, human tRNA promoters, the 5s ribosomal RNA promoters, as well as functional hybrids and combinations of any of these promoters.

] In alternative ments, the IL-lO/Il-lORl coding sequences may be under the l of an inducible promoter, such as tetracycline-controlled transcriptional activation where transcription is reversibly turned on (Tet-On) or off (Tet-Off) in the presence of the otic tetracycline or a tive thereof, such as doxycycline. In a Tet-Off system, expression of tetracycline response element-controlled genes can be repressed by tetracycline and its derivatives. Tetracycline binds the tetracycline transactivator protein, rendering it incapable of binding to the tetracycline response element sequences, preventing transactivation of ycline response element-controlled genes. In a Tet-On system on the other hand, the tetracycline transactivator protein is capable of initiating expression only if bound by tetracycline; thus, introduction of tetracycline or doxycycline initiates the transcription of IL-lO/Il-lORl peptides. Another inducible promoter system known in the art is the en receptor conditional gene expression system. Compared to the Tet , the estrogen receptor system is not as tightly lled; however, because the Tet system depends on transcription and subsequent translation of a target gene, the Tet system is not as cting as the estrogen receptor system.

The s of the present invention are drawn to co-expression of the IL-10 and IL- lORl peptides in the same antigen-presenting cell. To achieve this, one of ordinary skill in the art may employ a number of techniques including co-transfection of two or more plasmids, the use of multiple or bidirectional ers, or, preferably, the creation of bicistronic or multicistronic vectors. Unlike promoters that create unique mRNA transcripts for each gene that is expressed, multicistronic vectors simultaneously express two or more E [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM ation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM ation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM separate peptides—in this case the IL-10 and IL-lORl peptides—from the same mRNA.

Translation in eukaryotes usually begins at the 5' cap so that only a single translation event occurs for each mRNA. However, some bicistronic vectors take advantage of an element called an Internal Ribosome Entry Site (IRES) to allow for initiation of translation from an internal region of the mRNA.

Alternatively, "self-cleaving" 2A peptides may be used in lieu of IRES elements in muliticistronic s. Self-cleaving es are short (about 20 amino acids) and e equimolar levels of multiple genes from the same, single, mRNA. The "cleavage" occurs between the glycine and e residues found on the C-terminus of the self-cleaving peptide which is positioned between the coding regions of the two different peptides. Common 2A self-cleaving peptides include peptides T2A, P2A, E2A and F2A.

Optionally, the vector of the present ion also comprises a selection marker gene, such as that coding for antibiotic resistance. Marker genes of use in the present invention include but are not limited to human nerve growth factor receptor (detected with a monoclonal antibody (MAb), such as described in US. Pat. No. 6,365,373); truncated human growth factor receptor (detected with a MAb); mutant human dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR; ﬂuorescent MTX substrate available); secreted alkaline phosphatase (SEAP; ﬂuorescent substrate available); human thymidylate synthase (TS; confers resistance to anti- cancer agent ﬂuorodeoxyuridine); human glutathione S-transferase alpha (GSTAl; conjugates glutathione to the stem cell selective tor busulfan; rotective selectable marker in CD34+ cells); CD24 cell surface antigen in hematopoietic stem cells; human CAD gene to confer resistance to N-phosphonacetyl-L-aspartate (PALA); human multi-drug resistance-l (MDR-l; P-glycoprotein surface protein selectable by increased drug resistance or enriched by FACS); human CD25 (IL-20L; detectable by MAb-FITC); Methylguanine-DNA transferase (MGMT; selectable by carmustine); and ne deaminase (CD; able by Ara-C). Drug selectable markers such as puromycin, hygromycin, blasticidin, G418, tetracycline may also be employed. In on, using FACs sorting, any ﬂuorescent marker gene may be used for positive selection, as may chemiluminescent markers (e.g. Halotags), and the like Where delivery of the IL-lO/IL-lORl expression vector directly to a subject via intrathecal or intra-articular injection is contemplated, the IL-lO/Il-lORl expression vector ably is viral-based as described supra. However, in ments where ormed or transduced antigen-presenting cells are stered to a subject as described in more detail infra, it is also contemplated that antigen-presenting cells of choice can be engineered to E [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM ionNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM produce human cial somes that s the IL-10 and IL-10R1 peptides. Fully- functional human artificial chromosomes offer several advantages over viral-based delivery systems including increased payload size, the fact that extrachromosomal maintenance avoids ell disruption, and transcriptional silencing of introduced genes and possible immunological complications are avoided. Currently, there are several methods for engineering human artificial somes, including the "top down" , the "bottom up" method, creating minichromosomes, and d de novo chromosome generation. The "bottom up" approach of artificial chromosome formation relies on cell-mediated de novo chromosome formation following transfection of a permissive cell line with cloned ellite sequences, which comprise typical host cell-appropriate centromeres and selectable marker gene(s), with or without telomeric and genomic DNA. (For ols and a detailed ption of these methods see, e.g., Henning, et al., PNAS USA, 96:592-97 ; Grimes, et al., EMBO Rep. 2:910-14 (2001); Mejia, et al., Genomics, 79:297-304 (2002); and , et al., Mol. Ther., 5:798-805 (2002).) The "top down" approach of ing artificial chromosomes involves sequential rounds of random and/or targeted truncation of pre-existing chromosome arms to result in a pared down artificial chromosome comprising a mere, res, and DNA replication origins. (For protocols and a detailed description of these methods see, e.g., Choo, Trends Mol. Med., 7:235-37 (2001); Barnett, et al., Nuc. Ac. Res., 21:27-36 ; and Katoh, et al., Biochem. Biophys. Res. Commun., 321:280-90 (2004).) "Top down" artificial chromosomes are constructed optimally to be devoid of naturally-occuring expressed genes and are engineered to contain DNA sequences that permit site-specific integration of target DNA sequences onto the ted chromosome, mediated, e.g., by site-specific DNA integrases.

A third method of producing artificial chromosomes known in the art is engineering of naturally occurring minichromosomes. This production method typically involves irradiation-induced fragmentation of a chromosome containing a functional, e. g., human neo- centromere possessing centromere function yet lacking (x-satellite DNA sequences and engineered to be devoid of non-essential DNA. (For ols and a detailed description of these methods see, e.g., Auriche, et al., EMBO Rep. 2:102-07 (2001); Moralli, et al., Cytogenet. Cell Genet., 94:113-20 (2001); and Carine, et al., Somat. Cell Mol. Genet., :445-460 (1989).) As with other methods for generating artificial chromosomes, engineered mini-chromosomes can be engineered to contain DNA sequences that permit sitespecific integration of target DNA ces such as the IL-10 and IL-10R1 sequences. The fourth approach for production of artificial chromosomes involves induced de novo [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM ation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM chromosome generation by targeted amplification of specific somal segments. This approach involves large-scale amplification of peri-centromeric/ribosomal DNA regions situated on acrocentric chromosomes. The amplification is triggered by co-transfection of excess DNA specific to the pericentric region of chromosomes, such as ribosomal RNA, along with DNA ces that allow for site-specific integration of the, e.g., IL-10 and IL- 10Rl coding sequences and also a drug selectable marker which integrates into the pericentric regions of the chromosomes. (For protocols and a detailed description of these methods see, e.g., Csonka, et al., J. Cell Sci 113:3207-16 (2002); Hadlaczky, et al., Curr.

Opini. Mol. Ther., 3:125-32 (2001); and Lindenbaum and Perkins, et al., Nuc. Ac. Res., :el72 (2004).) During this process, targeting to the pericentric s of acrocentric chromosomes with co-transfected DNA induces large-scale chromosomal DNA amplification, duplication/activation of centromere sequences, and subsequent breakage and resolution of dicentric somes resulting in a "break-off" satellite DNA-based artificial chromosome containing multiple site-specific integration sites.

Delivery The IL-lO/IL-lORl expression s can be introduced into a subject either in vivo or in vitro (also termed ex vivo). In vivo introduction comprises administering the IL-lO/IL- 10Rl sion vectors directly to a subject, and in-vitro introduction comprises administering antigen-presenting cells that have been engineered to ress IL-10 and IL- 10Rl to a subject.

The preferred method of delivery for treating joint inﬂammation is joint injection (intra-articular injection), where a hypodermic needle is injected into the affected joint delivering a dose of the therapeutic anti-inﬂammatory composition of the present invention.

In treating chronic or athic pain, MS, neuroinﬂammation, or an autoimmune disease, intrathecal administration is red. Intrathecal injection involves ion of the therapeutic anti-inﬂammatory composition into the spinal canal or the subarachnoid space so that it reaches the cerebrospinal ﬂuid.

Alternatively, if transduced in vitro, the desired antigen-presenting recipient cells are preferably removed from a subject, ormed or transduced with the IL-lO/IL-lORl expression vector and reintroduced into the subject (that is, the antigen-presenting cells are autologous). Alternatively, however, syngeneic or xenogeneic antigen-presenting cells (such as from an established antigen-presenting cell line that has been stably ormed with the IL-lO/IL-lORl expression vector) can be transformed or transduced for delivery in the E [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM subject. Antigen-presenting cells or precursors thereof that may be ormed or transduced include any cells from the monocyte family, including monoblasts, monocytes, astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, microglia, macrophages, B cells, dendritic cells foam cells, lymphoblasts, and B lymphocytes. sor n-presenting cells may be transduced and cultured in the erentiated state, then differentiated in vitro before delivery to the subject.

The IL-lO/IL-lORl expression vector can be delivered to the antigen-presenting cells to be engineered by any method known in the art. The terms transfection and transformation refer to the taking up of ous nucleic acid, e.g., an expression vector, by a host cell whether or not any coding sequences are, in fact, expressed. Numerous methods of transfection are known to the ordinarily skilled n, for example, by cterium- mediated transformation, protoplast transformation (including hylene glycol (PEG)- ed transformation, electroporation, protoplast fusion, and ell fusion), lipid- mediated ry, liposomes, electroporation, sonoporation, microinjection, particle bombardment and silicon carbide whisker-mediated transformation and combinations thereof; direct uptake using calcium phosphate; polyethylene glycol mediated DNA uptake; lipofection; microcell fusion; lipid-mediated carrier systems; or other suitable methods.

Successful transfection is generally recognized by detection of the presence of IL-lO/IL-lORl gene transcripts or IL-lORlpeptides within the transfected cell. {00071} Because viral vectors are a preferred embodiment of the invention, antigen-presenting cells are preferably transduced using the viral vector. The use of viral infection is unique in that a virus' naturally occurring means of introducing its c material into a cell is taken age of to er a nucleic acid molecule of interest into a cell. As discussed supra, examples of viruses modified and applied to such techniques include adenoviruses, adeno- associated viruses, and retroviruses. Generally, nucleic acid molecules of interest may be cloned into a viral genome. Upon replication and packaging of the viral genome, the resultant viral particle is capable of delivering the nucleic acid, of interest into a cell via the viral entry mechanism. ly, the viral genome is first made replication deficient by nucleic acid manipulation before the addition of the nucleic acid of interest. The resultant viral genome, or viral vector, requires the use of a helper virus or a packaging system to complete viral le assembly and, release from a cell.

If the IL-lO/IL-lORl expression vectors are to be administered to a subject directly, via, e.g., intrathecal or intra-articular injection, the expression vectors may optionally be encapsulated for delivery. Techniques for encapsulating the IL-lO/IL-lORlexpression vector E [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM vary depending on the type of microparticles used and such techniques are described in, e.g., Chavez, et al., USSN. 14/905,915. The microparticles may be sed of any biodegradable polymer. To be used successfully as a biodegradable polymer in the controlled drug delivery formulations of the present invention, the material must be chemically inert and free of leachable impurities. Ideally the polymer also has an appropriate physical structure, with minimal undesired aging, and is readily processable. Some of the materials include poly(2-hydroxy ethyl methacrylate), poly(N-vinyl idone), poly(methyl methacrylate), poly(vinyl alcohol), poly(acrylic acid), polyacrylamide, poly(ethylene-co-vinyl acetate), thylene glycol), and poly(methacrylic acid). radable polymers of particular use in the t invention include polylactides (PLA), polyglycolides (PGA), poly(lactide-co- ides) (PLGA), polyanhydrides, polycaprolactone, -hydroxybutyrate and polyorthoesters. Such biodegradable polymers have been characterized extensively and can be formulated to exhibit desired degradation ties as is known in the art (see, e. g., Edlund & Albertsson, Degradable tic Polyesters, pp. 67-112 (2002), Barman, et al., J. of Controlled Release, 69:337-344 ; Cohen, et al., Pharmaceutical Res., (8): 713-720 (1991)).

In one particular embodiment of the invention, the polymer comprises poly(lactide- co-glycolides) (PLGA). PLGA is a copolymer which is used in a host of FDA ed therapeutic devices, owing to its biodegradability and biocompatibility. Depending on the ratio of lactide to glycolide used for the polymerization, different forms of PLGA can be ed: these are usually identified in regard to the monomers' ratio used (e. g., PLGA 75:25 identifies a copolymer whose composition is 75% (molar percent) lactic acid and 25% (molar percent) glycolic acid). PLGA degrades by ysis of its ester linkages in the presence of water. It has been shown that the time required for degradation of PLGA is related to the rs' ratio used in production: the higher the content of glycolide units, the lower the time required for degradation. An exception to this rule is the copolymer with 50:50 monomers' ratio which exhibits the faster degradation (about two ). In addition, polymers that are end-capped with esters (as opposed to the free carboxylic acid) demonstrate longer degradation half-lives. Alternatively, the IL-10/IL-10R1 sion vector may be encapsulated in batches of microparticles having different release profiles; for example, 10% of the expression vector to be delivered may be encapsulated in microparticles having, e. g., a one day to four week release profile; 30% of the expression vector to be delivered may be encapsulated in microparticles having, e. g., a three week to six week release e; 30% of the expression vector to be red may be encapsulated in microparticles having, e. g., a six E [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM week to ten week release profile; and 30% of the expression vector to be delivered may be encapsulated in microparticles having, e. g., an eight week to twelve week release profile. In such an embodiment, a single type of radable polymer may be used, but used in formulations with different release profiles; alternatively, ent biodegradable polymers having different release teristics may be used.

Once microparticles are obtained, they are suspended in an acceptable diluent to form a eutic composition for stration to an animal. Such diluents (or excipients) include any pharmaceutical agent that does not itself induce the production of antibodies harmful to the individual ing the composition, and that may be administered without undue toxicity. Pharmaceutically acceptable diluents may comprise sorbitol, alum, dextran, sulfate, large polymeric anions, any of the various TWEEN compounds, and liquids such as water, saline, glycerol or ethanol, oil and water ons, or adjuvants such as Freund's adjuvant. e the methods and therapeutic anti-inﬂammatory compositions of the invention do not icantly induce an immune response or dose tolerance in subjects, the can be used and/or administered as needed for therapeutic effect. That is, the therapeutic anti- inflammatory composition can be delivered approximately every 30-90 days (or as required according to, e.g., the vector type (bacterial, viral (integrative or not), artificial chromosome), and the degradation profile of the biodegradable polymer) as needed for therapeutic effect for shorter-term therapy. For example, when -term therapy is desired, the therapeutic ition can be delivered approximately every 90 days as needed for therapeutic effect for greater than one year; and if necessary, for the life of the subject.

Dosage ranges of the therapeutic anti-inﬂammatory compositions used in the methods of the present invention vary from subject to t, depending on the species, age, and l condition of the subject, the severity of the condition being treated and the particular IL-lO/IL-lORl sion vector to be delivered, mode of administration, and the like. For example, dosage ranges include a eutically effective dose at 10-1000 ug vector DNA per kg, 20-500 ug vector DNA per kg, 25-250 ug vector DNA per kg, or 50-100 ug vector DNA per kg depending on the desired duration and anatomical location of the injection.

The IL-lO/IL-lORl expression vectors or articles containing the IL-lO/IL- lORl sion vectors used in the methods of the present invention may be co- administered in a "cocktail" with other eutic agents useful in treating inﬂammation including but not limited to glucocorticoids; methotrexate; hydroxychlolquine; sulfasalazine; lefunomide; anti-TNF agents such as etanercept, infliximab and adalimumab; abatacept; E [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM ed set by KIM nonsteroidal anti-inﬂammatory drugs (NSAIDs); Glatiramer acetate and interferon B, Mitoxantrone, and Natalizumab. Additionally, the IL-lO/IL-lORl sion vectors used in the methods of the present invention may be co-administered with cells, such as stem cells bioengineered to express IL-lO/IL-lORl expression vector. Generally, any method known in the art can be used to monitor success of treatment in humans, including both clinical and phenotypic indicators.

Conditions to be d Because the itions and therapeutic nﬂammatory compositions of the present invention overcome the down-regulation of IL-10 to achieve robust IL-lO-mediated suppression of inﬂammation, they thus are efficacious in treating a number of diseases and conditions. For example, the methods and therapeutic anti-inﬂammatory compositions of the present invention can be used to treat symptoms and damages caused by multiple sclerosis (MS). MS is a chronic, often debilitating autoimmune disease of the central nervous system.

The disease afﬂicts imately 2.5—3 million people ide, and ~400K people in the US, with 200 people per week being diagnosed. At onset, ~85% of patients present with a relapsing remitting disease , 10% with primary progressive disease (PPMS) and 5% with progressive relapsing disease (PRMS). Full neurological recovery usually occurs after the first episode of RRMS, but ~50% of those patients over a lO-year period will late increasingly persistent neurological deficits at subsequent relapses and convert to a secondary progressive phase of the e which becomes increasingly disabling. The clinical symptoms of MS are highly variable from patient to patient. The list of symptoms includes impairment of ion, function, loss of vision, weakness, spasticity, lack of coordination, imbalance, fatigue, sexual, bowel and bladder dysfunction, paresthesias and pain. Clinically significant pain is experienced by as many as 65% of patients over the course of their disease and represents one of the most disabling, though under recognized and frequently inadequately d ms. The pain is usually neuropathic, and can vary in nature dependent on the damaged s involved. It should also be noted that pain is a prominent MS symptom that is poorly treated by current therapies.

In addition to MS, other conditions ed by a loss of myelin can be d using the methods and therapeutic anti-inﬂammatory compositions of the present invention. These conditions include neuroinﬂammation (i.e., neuroinﬂammation caused by trisomy 21), ischemic demyelination conditions, inﬂammatory demyelination conditions, ric leukodystrophies, mucopolysaccharidosis, perinatal germinal matrix hemorrhage, cerebral [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM palsy, periventricular leukoinalacia, radiation-induced conditions, and subcortical leukoencephalopathy due to various etiologies, as well as mental illnesses such as schizophrenia. Ischemic demyelination conditions include cortical stroke, lacunar infarct, post-hypoxic leukoencephalopathy, ic leukoencephalopathy, and hypertensive leukoencephalopathy. Inﬂammatory demyelination ions include le sclerosis, Schilder's Disease, transverse myelitis, optic neuritis, post-vaccination encephalomyelitis, and nfectious encephalomyelitis. Pediatric leukodystrophy conditions include lysosomal storage es (e. g., Tay-Sachs Disease), n's Disease, Pelizaeus- Merzbacher Disease, and Crabbe's d body leukodystrophy. An example of mucopolysaccharidosis is Sly's e. Radiation-induced conditions include radiationinduced leukoencephalopathy and ion induced myelitis. Etiologies causing subcortical leukoencephalopathy e HIV/AIDS, head , and multi-infarct states.

] Additionally, the s and therapeutic anti-inﬂammatory itions of the present invention also may be used to treat joint inﬂammation is in the knee, elbow, wrist, ankle, hip, er, or spine. Conditions treatable by the methods and therapeutic anti- inﬂammatory compositions of the present invention include rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, as well as tendonitis, bursitis, inﬂammation of the ligament, synovitis, gout, and systemic lupus erythematosus.

Yet another use of the methods and therapeutic anti-inﬂammatory compositions of the present invention is the treatment of autoimmune diseases. Autoimmune diseases represent an attack by the host immune system on specific targets in host tissues leading to critical loss of function and pathological symptoms. The classic example of this phenomenon is the presence in patients with Myasthenia Gravis of antibodies directed at the nicotinic choline receptor present at the neuromuscular junction. Because this receptor is so important in transmitting signals from motor neurons to muscles, such antibodies cause partial paralysis and other neuromuscular deficits. It is unclear why such auto-antibodies arise but the only treatment with any efficacy has been plasmapheresis; that is, replacement of the plasma fraction of blood to reduce the circulating concentration of the ogic antibody.

Although in many cases, dominant antibodies have been identified that explain the specific disease pathology, there has been no real progress in ng such diseases. This may be in part because investigators persist in focusing on the pathogenic antibodies and their effects rather than thinking of autoimmune diseases as a failure of tolerance.

Immune tolerance is defined as a curtailed response to administration of an n in animals previously seropositive for antibodies t that antigen. The adaptive immune E [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM ation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM ation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM system can be taught to ignore a given antigen by exposing the animal to escalating doses of antigen. This is called desensitization and it is used primarily in humans to treat allergies of various kinds, e.g. peanut allergy. However, this is a slow and uncertain process, ntly ineffective. How reactive the immune system is to a particular n is driven in part by the balance between reactive, cytotoxic B- & T-lymphocytes and more recently discovered regulatory B- & T-cells. Stimulation of these cells with IL-10 induces a switch from cytotoxic to tolerant phenotype. In fact this switch s in secretion of IL-10 from these same cells, called regulatory B- and T-cells. Thus exposure of T- and B-cells to exogenous IL-10 is predicted to induce tolerance to antigens. In practice, however, getting the concentration of exogenous IL-lO at the right concentration to effect this tion is difficult. ed IL-10 and IL-lORl expression in these cells is predicted to induce ype switching that is somewhat independent of IL-10 concentration.

Autoimmune diseases that can be treated or ameliorated with the methods and therapeutic anti-inﬂammatory compositions of the present invention include but are not limited to ditis, lupus nephritis and other lupus disorders, interstitial systitis, autoimmune hepatitis, alopecia areata, molysis bullosa acquisita, Addison’s disease, es us type 1, Grave’s e, Celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, aplastic anemia and other anemias, ankylosing spondylitis, Felty syndrome, psoriatic arthritis, systemic lupus, Schnitzler syndrome, fibromyalgia, myasthenia gravis, Guillain-Barre syndrome, t-Eason myasthenic syndrome, autoimmune retinopathy, Cogan syndrome, Grave’s ophthalmopathy, scleritis, Meniere’s disease, Churg-Strauss syndrome, Kawasaki’s disease, rheumatoid vasculitis, and polyarteritis nodosa. In addition, conditions that are common to autoimmune diseases such as chronic fatigue syndrome, complex regional pain syndrome, eosinophilic esophagitis, gastritis, POEMS me, Raynaud’s phenomenon, primary immunodeficiency, and pyoderma gangrenosum may be treated with the methods and therapeutic anti-inﬂammatory compositions of the present invention.

Additional objects, advantages, and novel es of this invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon examination of the following examples thereof, which are not intended to be limiting. In the Examples, procedures that are constructively reduced to ce are described in the present tense, and procedures that have been carried out in the laboratory are set forth in the past tense.

E [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM ionNone set by KIM ation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM EXAMPLES The ing es are put forth so as to provide those of ordinary skill in the art with a te disclosure and description of how to make and use the present invention, and are not intended to limit the scope of what the inventors regard as their invention, nor are they intended to represent or imply that the experiments below are all of or the only experiments performed. It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that numerous variations and/or modifications may be made to the invention as shown in the specific embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention as broadly described. The present embodiments are, therefore, to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive.

Efforts have been made to ensure accuracy with respect to numbers used (e. g., amounts, temperature, etc.) but some experimental errors and deviations should be accounted for. Unless indicated otherwise, parts are parts by weight, molecular weight is weight average molecular weight, temperature is in degrees centigrade, and pressure is at or near atmospheric.

Example l-Expression s XT-250 is an expression plasmid that contains the rat IL-lO cDNA, used in these studies simply because rIL-lO engages with the rat IL-lORl or considerably better than human IL-lO (hIL-lO). XT-250, like its hIL-lO counterpart—XT-150—is a solution of DNA in D-mannose. less of species, all of the IL-lO cDNAs used contain a point mutation yielding an amino acid change, F129S, that has been found to yield significantly longer duration of efficacy in pain models (Milligan et al., Pain, 126(1-3):294-308 (2006)). The plasmid backbone contains a Kanamycin resistance gene, CMV promoter, B-globin intron, growth hormone polyA and 2 AAV2 ITRs. This plasmid was also used to make AAV9 ] LV02 is an expression plasmid that contains the above control elements with a cDNA ream of the CMV er comprised of the hIL-lORl coding sequence followed by a 2a, self-cleaving peptide, and the hIL-lO coding sequence. Test transfection of HT-1080 cells ed surface expression of IL-lORl and secretion of IL-10 into the medium (2.1 ng/mL).

Example 2-Supp0rting Data E [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM It should be noted that IL-10 displays some idiosyncrasies in terms of sspecificity.

For example, mouse IL-lO does not interact with the human IL-lO receptor, although human IL-lO does bind to the mouse IL-lO receptor, and human IL-lO binds weakly with the rat IL-lO receptor. For this reason, rat IL-lO (rIL-lO) has lly been used in rat experiments, and human IL-lO (hIL-lO) has been used in mouse, dog and horse studies. The fact that hIL-lO tes the rat IL-lO receptor only at high concentrations is a very useful feature, because co-expression of human IL-lORl in target rat tissues results in full response to human IL-lO. In order to fy delivery, adeno-associated viruses (AAV) encoding rIL- , hIL-lO, or hIL-lORl were constructed. Serotype 9 was chosen e AAV9 distributes very well when injected intrathecally and transduces a wide y of cells including antigen-presenting cells such as astrocytes that themselves express IL-lORl. As shown in Fig. l, AAV9-hIL-10 is anti-allodynic in the rat c Constriction Injury (CCI) model of neuropathic pain, but the effect wears off. However, a 1:1 mixture of AAV9-hIL-10 and AAV9-hIL10R1 directs stable elimination of allodynia in this model (Fig. 2), consistent with the hypothesis that combined IL-10 and IL-lORl expression permits much higher intrathecal dosing to drive widespread ssion of inﬂammation throughout the spinal cord and white matter tracts. Open circles = AAV9-hIL-10R1; closed circles = AAV9-hIL-10 + XR-lOl; closed squares = AAV9-hIL-10Ra + AAV9-hIL-10.

In order to simplify administration of the two cDNAs, a bicistronic vector was constructed in which the EFlOt promoter directs expression of hIL-lORl and . The primary translation product contains a 2a self-cleaving peptide. When this plasmid was transiently transfected into HT-180 cells, hIL-lO was easily detected in the medium by ELISA (R&D s) at imately 2 ng/mL. In addition, surface IL-lORl was detected by immunoﬂuorescence in transfected but not control cells.

Plasmid-based gene transfer of IL-10 in relapsing-remitting EAE rats has been found to be effective (Sloane et al., Brain, Behavior and ty, 23(1):92-100 (2009)). In this study, plasmid encapsulated in PLGA microparticles was injected intrathecally at a time when tail paralysis had y occurred (Fig. 3). ably, IL-lO reversed tail paralysis and extinguished MS-like pathology. Motor scores: 0 = normal; 1 = tail tip paralysis; 2 = full tail paralysis; 3 = hind leg weak; 4 = hind-leg paralysis; 5 = full hind-leg paralysis; 6 — partial foreleg paralysis. N = 6 per group.

Example 3—Treatment with the IL-10/IL-10R1 expression vector to assess motor disability E [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM ed set by KIM ation] KIM None set by KIM ation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM Rats treated with MOG to induce a mild relapsing-remitting MS-like pathology are ed intrathecally with doses of IL-10 plasmid previously shown to be efficacious in this model (Sloane et al. 2009) at a time when symptoms such as tail paralysis are visible. In addition to IL-10 plasmid, separate cohorts of rats are dosed with equal amounts of almost cal plasmid in which the IL-10 cDNA is replaced with the IL-lO/IL-lORl cassette named LV02. The goal of this 30-day experiment is to establish whether LV02 works better than XT-250 (IL-10 sion only) at higher doses. At low plasmid doses (3 ug), little difference is expected between the two formulations. However, at high doses (~100 ug), where loss of XT-250 efficacy is seen, continued efficacy of LV02 is expected.

Adult male Dark Agouti rats (250—300 g; Envigo), can be used to induce EAE via intradermal injection of 35 ug MOG in 0.01 M Na-Acetate (pH 3.0) emulsified in incomplete Freund’s adjuvant (1:1 ratio). Approximately 1 week after injection, rats evince progressive motor impairment (and allodynia), starting with tail paralysis (motor score = 1) that leads ultimately to a score of 7 where they are euthanized. However, in the intermediate period animals spontaneously improve before relapsing. Rats (N=5 per group) are injected intrathecally (via lumbar 4/5; L4/5) with either XT-250 or LV02 in a volume of approximately 40 ul when they present with tail paralysis. Groups of 5 rats are injected with PBS (control) or DNA (1, 3, 7, 10, 30 or 100 ug) either XT-250 or LV02. Animals are scored for motor disability over the next 30 days.

Example 4—Treatment with the IL-10/IL-10R1 expression vector to assess reduction of supra-spinal lesions ] A anging experiment is conducted in which doses of LV02 are achieved in which efficacy in terms of motor deficit is maintained but supra-spinal lesions are significantly reduced (H&E) and demyelination is decreased (Luxol Fast Blue). LV02, XT- 250 or PBS are injected hecally into EAE rats (N=5 per group) at the t doses found to be efficacious in the experiments performed in Example 3. The e phase of this ment concludes when animals return to a score of 0 (normal), usually <2 weeks.

Samples of CSF are taken from naive animals, the same animals at the time of LV02 administration and immediately prior to perfusion/fixation. Animals are perfused with PBS followed by PBS/4% paraformaldehyde. Spinal cords and brains are transferred to cryoprotectant (30% sucrose in PBS) prior to sectioning. Sections (40 micron) of spinal cord tudinal) and brain (coronal) are stained with Hematoxylin-Eosin (H&E) to identify E [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM ation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM lesions and lymphocytic infiltrates. Adjacent sections are stained with Luxol Blue to identify zones of demyelination. Sections are also stained for human IL-lORl (Millipore # 06-1067), Ibal (microglia), GFAP (astrocytes), and NeuN (neurons). Co-staining with MHC-II antibodies identifies tion of antigen-presenting cells. At each level of spinal cord (lumbar, thoracic, cervical), s identified by H&E in longitudinal sections are counted.

Similarly, sections from brainstem, cerebellum, occipital cortex and frontal cortex are scored for the presence of lesions by H&E. Significant (unpaired t-test) reductions in lesions are expected in both XT-250 and LV02 in spinal cord compared to PBS controls. If LV02 works better than XT-250 in brainstem and cortical white matter tracts, a significant difference in lesions per n should be detected.

Example 5- Treatment with the IL-10/IL-10R1 expression vector to assess biodistribution Biodistribution of plasmid DNA throughout the brain at various doses of LV02 is evaluated. This experiment is designed to understand how plasmid distributes hout white matter tracts and spinal cord over time. The highest le dose of LV02 (300 ug) is injected intrathecally via L4/5 of naive rats (N=3 per oint). Tissues are isolated from spinal cord (lumbar, thoracic, cervical), brainstem, tal cortex and frontal cortex 4 h, 7 and 30 days after injection. DNA is extracted from these tissues and subjected to quantitative PCR. This experiment reveal hows LV02 distributes through the brain and whether it persists over an extended period.

Example 6-Statistical Analysis All statistical comparisons of motor deficit score and immuno- hemical analysis data were ed with statistical software. Motor deficit scores are analyzed via a non- parametric Wilcoxon rank sum test. The repeated measures ANOVA statistic examines group effects across time-points tested throughout experiments. Immunohistochemistry markers will be ed by two-tailed t-test statistic.

Example 7: Detection of neuroinﬂammation in Down Syndrome model mice ] In r example (Figure 4), injection of expression plasmid encoding mouse IL-10F129S into the brains of normal mice and mice ered to mimic Down’s Syndrome (dpl6) showed that over-expression of IL-10 ically reduced expression of E [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM IL-10R1 mRNA in support of other data both from the inventors’ laboratory and published findings (see, ing, et al., J Immunol 167(12): 6884-6892 (2001)). Figure 2 shows levels of mRNA for the signaling receptor of IL-10 (IL-10R1). . Compared to no injection controls, LlO treatment dramatically suppressed gene expression of IL-10R1 in both wild type and Down Syndrome mouse .

The preceding merely illustrates the principles of the invention. It will be appreciated that those skilled in the art will be able to devise various arrangements which, although not explicitly described or shown herein, embody the principles of the invention and are included within its spirit and scope. Furthermore, all examples and ional language recited herein are principally intended to aid the reader in understanding the principles of the invention and the concepts contributed by the inventors to furthering the art, and are to be construed as being without limitation to such specifically recited examples and conditions. Moreover, all statements herein reciting principles, aspects, and embodiments of the invention as well as specific examples thereof, are intended to encompass both structural and functional equivalents thereof.

Additionally, it is intended that such equivalents include both currently known equivalents and equivalents developed in the , i.e., any elements developed that perform the same function, regardless of structure. The scope of the t ion, therefore, is not ed to be limited to the exemplary embodiments shown and bed herein. Rather, the scope and spirit of t invention is embodied by the appended claims. In the claims that follow, unless the term " is used, none of the es or elements recited therein should be construed as means-plus-function limitations pursuant to 35 U.S.C. §112, ‘][6.

[Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM We

Claims

claim:

1. A method for ng inﬂammation in a subject comprising expressing from one or more bacterial, viral, phage, cosmid or artificial chromosome vectors interleukin 10 (IL-10) peptide and interleukin 10 type 1 receptor (IL-lORl) peptide in antigen-presenting cells in the t.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the IL-lO peptide expressed in the n-presenting cells comprises a mutation in a hinge region of the IL-lO peptide.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein the IL-lO peptide comprises a mutation where a phenylalanine at position 129 of an IL-lO wildtype ce has been replaced with serine, threonine, alanine or cysteine.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein the phenylalanine at position 129 of a wildtype sequence has been replaced with serine.

5. The method of claim 1, n the IL-10 and IL-lORl are expressed from a single vector.

6. The method of claim 5, wherein the vector is a viral vector.

7. The method of claim 6, wherein the viral vector is an adeno-associated virus vector.

8., The method of claim 6, n the viral vector is a lentivirus vector.

9. The method of claim 5, wherein the IL-10 and IL-lORl coding sequences are transcribed as a single mRNA.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein the vector further comprises a coding sequence for an internal ribosome entry site between the IL-10 and the IL-lORl coding sequences.

11. The method of claim 9, wherein the vector further comprises a coding sequence for a self- cleaving 2a peptide between the IL-10 and IL-lORl coding sequences.

12. The method of claim 1, wherein the ation is caused by neuropathic or c pain and the one or more vectors are red by intrathecal ion.

13. The method of claim 1, wherein the inﬂammation is caused by MS and the one or more vectors are delivered by intrathecal injection.

14. The method of claim 1, wherein the inﬂammation is caused by an autoimmune disease and the one or more vectors are delivered by intrathecal injection.

15. The method of claim 1, wherein the inﬂammation is located in a joint and the one or more vectors are delivered by intra-articular injection.

16. The method of claim 1, wherein the inﬂammation is neuroinﬂammation.

17. The method of claim 1, wherein the antigen-presenting cells are selected from the group of monoblasts, tes, astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, microglia, hages, B cells, dendritic cells, foam cells, lymphoblasts, and B lymphocytes. E [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM ation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM

18. The method of claim 17, wherein the antigen-presenting cells are removed from a subject to be treated, transduced with the one or more vectors in vitro, and administered back to the t.

19. The method of claim 17, wherein the antigen-presenting cells are stably transformed with the one or more vectors and are ined in culture.

20. A single viral or bacterial expression vector comprising the coding regions for interleukin 10 (IL-10) and interleukin 10 type 1 receptor (IL-10R1).

21. The single expression vector of claim 20, wherein the vector is a viral vector comprising a single promoter driving the transcription of the IL-10 and IL-10R1 peptides, and r comprising a self-cleaving 2a e positioned between the coding region of the IL-10 peptide and the coding region of the IL-10R1 peptide. [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM ionNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM THRESHOLD ABSOLUTE 0.6 BL 7 14 21 28 35 42 DAYS POST INJECTION THRESHOLD ABSOLUTE 0.6 0.4 000000000 BL 0 3 7 9121621283542 DAYS POST INJECTION [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM [Annotation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM [Annotation] KIM None set by KIM [Annotation] KIM MigrationNone set by KIM ation] KIM Unmarked set by KIM SCORE MOTOR IJ mAAAALALLALAA -20 2 4 6 8 10 12 141618 20 TIME POST ONSET OF MOTOR SYMPTOMS (DAYS) 30.00 25.00 20.00 15.00 10.00 NO INJECTION p|L10 Dp16 WILD-TYPE FIG. 4