Robert McKenna

AAV2 Crosslinks Actin Filaments: Implications for AAV Gene Therapy Vector Design

This study identifies AAV2's ability to bundle actin filaments, suggesting a new class of actin-binding viruses and offering insights for improving AAV gene therapy.

Acetylation mimetic and null mutations within the filament core of P301L tau have varied effects on susceptibility to seeding and aggregation

This study examines how acetylation and phosphorylation mutations affect tau aggregation and seeding in Alzheimer's and PSP models.

Mechanisms of AAV neutralization by human alpha-defensins

This study identifies how human alpha-defensins neutralize AAV2 and AAV6 by blocking viral entry and nuclear trafficking, revealing a common mechanism for inhibiting non-enveloped viruses.

Structural characterization of antibody-responses from Zolgensma treatment provides the blueprint for the engineering of an AAV capsid suitable for redosing

This study uses cryo-EM to analyze antibodies against AAV9 vectors, identifying residues that enable capsid engineering to avoid neutralization and allow redosing.

Improved Genome Packaging Efficiency of AAV Vectors Using Rep Hybrids

This study improves AAV vector genome packaging efficiency by engineering Rep hybrid proteins, reducing empty capsids and increasing full capsid yields across non-AAV2 serotypes.