NZ718174B2 - Methods And Compositions For Regulation Of Transgene Expression - Google Patents

Abstract

Directed toward an isolated cell which comprises a non-naturally occurring nuclease that cleaves an endogenous albumin gene, and a transgene that encodes Factor VIII, Factor IX, Factor XI and/or alpha-I antitrypsin. Also provides methods of expressing said transgenes and the use of the isolated cell in the manufacture of a medicament for the treatment of haemophilia/COPD/liver disorders in the manufacture of a medicament for the treatment of haemophilia/COPD/liver disorders

Description

METHODS AND ITIONS FOR REGULATION OF TRANSGENE EXPRESSION CROSS—REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS The present ation claims the benefit of US. Provisional Application Nos. 61/537,349 filed September 21, 2011; US. ional Application 61/560,506 filed November 16, 2011; and US. ional Application 61/670,490 filed July 11, 2012, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD The present disclosure is in the field of genome editing.

BACKGROUND Gene therapy holds enormous potential for a new era of human eutics. These methodologies will allow ent for ions that have not been addressable by standard medical practice. Gene therapy can include the many variations of genome editing techniques such as tion or tion of a gene locus, and insertion of an expressible transgene that can be controlled either by a specific exogenous promoter fused to the transgene, or by the endogenous promoter found at the site of insertion into the genome.

Delivery and insertion of the ene are examples of hurdles that must be solved for any real implementation of this technology. For example, although a variety of gene ry methods are potentially available for therapeutic use, all involve substantial tradeoffs between safety, durability and level of expression. Methods that provide the transgene as an episome (e. g. basic adenovirus, AAV and plasmid-based systems) are generally safe and can yield high initial expression levels, however, these methods lack robust episome replication, which may limit the duration of expression in mitotically active tissues. In contrast, delivery methods that result in the random integration of the desired transgene (e. g. integrating lentivirus) provide more durable expression but, due to the untargeted nature of the random insertion, may provoke unregulated growth in the recipient cells, potentially leading to malignancy via activation of oncogenes in the vicinity of the randomly integrated transgene cassette. Moreover, although transgene integration avoids ation-driven loss, it does not prevent eventual silencing of the exogenous promoter fused to the ene. Over time, such silencing results in reduced transgene sion for the majority of random insertion events. In addition, integration of a transgene rarely occurs in every target cell, which can make it difficult to achieve a high enough sion level of the transgene of interest to achieve the desired therapeutic effect.

In recent years, a new strategy for transgene integration has been developed that uses ge with site-specific ses to bias insertion into a chosen genomic locus (see, e.g., co—owned US Patent 7,888,121). This approach offers the prospect of improved transgene expression, increased safety and expressional durability, as compared to classic integration approaches, since it allows exact transgene positioning for a minimal risk of gene silencing or activation of nearby oncogenes.

One approach involves the integration of a transgene into its e locus, for example, insertion of a wild type transgene into the endogenous locus to correct a mutant gene. atively, the transgene may be inserted into a non— cognate locus chosen specifically for its beneficial properties. See, e.g., US. Patent Publication No. 20120128635 relating to targeted insertion of a factor IX (FIX) transgene. Targeting the cognate locus can be useful if one wishes to replace expression of the nous gene with the transgene while still maintaining the sional control exerted by the nous regulatory elements. Specific nucleases can be used that cleave Within or near the endogenous locus and the transgene can be integrated at the site of cleavage through homology directed repair (HDR) or by end capture during non-homologous end g (NHEJ). The integration process is determined by the use or non—use of regions of homology in the transgene donors between the donor and the endogenous locus.

Alternatively, the transgene may be inserted into a specific “safe harbor” location in the genome that may either utilize the er found at that safe harbor locus, or allow the expressional regulation of the transgene by an exogenous promoter that is fused to the transgene prior to insertion. Several such “safe harbor” loci have been described, including the AAVSl and CCR5 genes in human cells, and 2012/056539 Rosa26 in murine cells (see, e.g., co-owned United States patent applications nos. 99580; 20080159996 and 201000218264). As described above, nucleases specific for the safe harbor can be utilized such that the transgene construct is inserted by either HDR- or NHEJ— driven ses.

An especially attractive ation of gene therapy involves the treatment of disorders that are either caused by an insufficiency of a secreted gene product or that are treatable by secretion of a therapeutic protein. Such disorders are potentially addressable Via delivery of a therapeutic ene to a modest number of cells, provided that each recipient cell expresses a high level of the therapeutic gene product. In such a io, relief from the need for gene delivery to a large number of cells can enable the successful development of gene therapies for otherwise intractable indications. Such applications would require permanent, safe, and very high levels of transgene expression. Thus the development of a safe harbor which exhibits these properties would provide substantial utility in the field of gene therapy.

[0009] A considerable number of disorders are either caused by an insufficiency of a ed gene product or are treatable by secretion of a therapeutic protein. Clotting disorders, for example, are fairly common genetic disorders where factors in the clotting cascade are aberrant in some manner, 1'. e., lack of expression or production of a mutant protein. Most clotting disorders result in hemophilias such as hemophilia A (factor VIII ncy), hemophilia B (factor IX deficiency), or hemophilia C (factor XI deficiency). Treatment for these disorders is often related to the severity. For mild hemophilias, treatments can involve therapeutics designed to increase expression of the under-expressed factor, while for more severe ilias, therapy involves regular infusion of the g ng factor (often 2-3 times a week) to prevent bleeding episodes. Patients with severe hemophilia are often discouraged from participating in many types of sports and must take extra precautions to avoid everyday injuries.

Alpha-1 antitrypsin(A1AT) deficiency is an autosomal recessive disease caused by defective production of alpha l-antitrypsin which leads to inadequate AlAT levels in the blood and lungs. It can be associated with the development of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and liver disorders.

Currently, treatment of the es ated with this deficiency can involve on of exogenous AlAT and lung or liver transplant.

Lysosomal storage diseases (LSDs) are a group of rare metabolic monogenic diseases characterized by the lack of functional dual lysosomal ns normally involved in the breakdown of waste lipids, glycoproteins and mucopolysaccharides. These diseases are terized by a buildup of these compounds in the cell since it is unable to process them for recycling due to the misfunctioning of a specific enzyme. Common examples include Gaucher’s (glucocerebrosidase deficiency- gene name: GBA), s (0L galactosidase deficiency- GLA), Hunter’s (iduronate—Z—sulfatase deficiency—IDS), Hurler’s (alpha—L idase ncy— IDUA), and Niemann—Pick’s gomyelin phosphodiesterase ldeficiency— SMPDl) diseases. When grouped er, LSDs have an nce in the population of about 1 in 7000 births. These diseases have devastating effects on those afflicted with them. They are usually first diagnosed in babies who may have characteristic facial and body growth patterns and may have moderate to severe mental retardation. Treatment options include enzyme replacement y (ERT) where the missing enzyme is given to the patient, usually h intravenous injection in large doses. Such treatment is only to treat the symptoms and is not curative, thus the patient must be given repeated dosing of these proteins for the rest of their lives, and potentially may develop neutralizing dies to the injected protein. Often these proteins have a short serum half-life, and so the patient must also endure frequent infusions of the protein. For example, Gaucher’s disease patients receiving the Cerezyme® product (imiglucerase) must have infusions three times per week. Production and purification of the enzymes is also problematic, and so the treatments are very costly (>$100,000 per year per patient).

Type I diabetes is a disorder in which immune-mediated destruction of pancreatic beta cells results in a profound deficiency of insulin, which is the primary secreted product of these cells. Restoration of baseline insulin levels provide substantial relief from many of the more serious complications of this disorder which can include “macrovascular” complications ing the large s: ischemic heart disease (angina and myocardial infarction), stroke and peripheral vascular disease, as well as "microvascular" complications from damage to the small blood vessels. ascular complications may include diabetic retinopathy, which affects blood vessel formation in the retina of the eye, and can lead to visual symptoms, reduced vision, and potentially blindness, and diabetic nephropathy, which may involve scarring changes in the kidney tissue, loss of small or progressively larger amounts of protein in the urine, and eventually chronic kidney disease requiring dialysis. Diabetic neuropathy can cause numbness, tingling and pain in the feet and, together with vascular disease in the legs, contributes to the risk of diabetes-related foot problems (such as diabetic foot ulcers) that can be difficult to treat and occasionally require amputation as a result of ated infections.

Antibodies are secreted protein products whose binding plasticity has been exploited for pment of a diverse range of therapies. Therapeutic antibodies can be used for neutralization of target proteins that directly cause disease (e. g. VEGF in macular degeneration) as well as highly selective killing of cells whose persistence and replication endanger the hose (e.g. cancer cells, as well as certain immune cells in autoimmune diseases). In such applications, therapeutic antibodies take advantage of the body’s normal response to its own dies to achieve selective killing, neutralization, or clearance of target proteins or cells bearing the antibody’s target n. Thus antibody therapy has been widely applied to many human ions including gy, rheumatology, transplant, and ocular disease Examples of antibody therapeutics include Lucentis® (Genentech) for the treatment of r degeneration, n® (Biogen Idec) for the treatment ofNon—Hodgkin lymphoma, and Herceptin® tech) for the treatment of breast cancer. Albumin is a n that is produced in the liver and secreted into the blood. In humans, serum albumin comprises 60% of the protein found in blood, and its function seems to be to regulate blood volume by regulating the colloid osmotic pressure. It also serves as a r for molecules with low solubility, for e lipid soluble hormones, bile salts, free fatty acids, calcium and transferrin. In addition, serum albumin carries therapeutics, including warfarin, phenobutazone, clofibrate and phenytoin. In humans, the albumin locus is highly expressed, resulting in the production of approximately 15 g of albumin protein each day. Albumin has no ine function, and there does not appear to be any phenotype associated with monoallelic knockouts and only mild phenotypic observations are found for biallelic knockouts (see s et al (1994) Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 91 :9417).

Albumin has also been used when coupled to therapeutic reagents to increase the serum half-life of the therapeutic. For example, Osborn et al (JPharm Exp Thera (2002) :540) disclose the pharmacokinetics of a serum albumin- interferon alpha fusion protein and demonstrate that the fusion n had an approximate 140-fold slower clearance such that the half-life of the fusion was 18- fold longer than for the interferon alpha protein alone. Other examples of therapeutic proteins recently under development that are albumin fusions include Albulin-G™, Cardeva™ and anin™ (Teva Pharmaceutical Industries, fused to Insulin, b- type natriuretic, or GCSF, tively), Syncria® (GlaxoSmithKline, fused to on-like e-1) and Albuferon α-2B, fused to IFN-alpha (see Current Opinion in Drug Discovery and Development, (2009), vol 12, No. 2. p. 288). In these cases, Albulin-G™, Cardeva™ and Syncria® are all fusion proteins where the albumin is found on the N-terminus of the fusion, while Albugranin™ and Albuferon alpha 2G are fusions where the albumin is on the C-terminus of the fusion.

Thus, there remains a need for onal methods and compositions that can be used to s a desired transgene at a therapeutically relevant level, while avoiding any associated toxicity, and which may limit expression of the transgene to the desired tissue type, for example to treat genetic diseases such as hemophilias, diabetes, mal storage diseases and A1AT deficiency.

Additionally, there remains a need for additional methods and compositions to express a desired transgene at a therapeutically relevant level for the treatment of other diseases such as cancers.

SUMMARY [0016A] sed herein are methods and compositions for creating a safe harbor in the genome of cells, for ed insertion and subsequence expression of a transgene, for example expression of the transgene from a secretory tissue such as liver. In one aspect, described herein is a non-naturally occurring zinc-finger protein (ZFP) that binds to target site in a region of interest (e.g., an albumin gene) in a genome, wherein the ZFP comprises one or more engineered zinc-finger binding domains. In one embodiment, the ZFP is a zinc-finger nuclease (ZFN) that cleaves a target c region of st, wherein the ZFN comprises one or more engineered zinc-finger binding domains and a nuclease cleavage domain or cleavage half-domain.

Cleavage domains and cleavage half domains can be obtained, for example, from various restriction endonucleases and/or homing endonucleases. In one embodiment, the cleavage omains are derived from a Type IIS restriction endonuclease (e.g., Fok I). In certain embodiments, the zinc finger domain recognises a target site in an albumin gene, for example a zinc finger protein with the recognition helix domains ordered as shown in a single row of Tables 1, 3, 5 or 8. [0016B] In one embodiment, the present ion provides an isolated cell comprising (a) a non-naturally occurring nuclease that cleaves an endogenous albumin gene; and (b) a transgene encoding Factor VIII, Factor IX, Factor XI and/or 1 antitrypsin (A1AT).

In another aspect, described herein is a Transcription Activator Like or (TALE) protein that binds to target site in a region of st (e.g., an n gene) in a , wherein the TALE comprises one or more engineered TALE g domains. In one embodiment, the TALE is a nuclease (TALEN) that cleaves a target genomic region of interest, wherein the TALEN comprises one or more engineered TALE DNA binding domains and a nuclease cleavage domain or cleavage half-domain. Cleavage domains and cleavage half domains can be obtained, for example, from various restriction endonucleases and/or homing cleases. In one embodiment, the cleavage half-domains are derived from a Type IIS restriction endonuclease (e.g., Fok I). In certain embodiments, the TALE DNA binding domain recognizes a target site in an albumin gene, for example TALE DNA binding domain having the target sequence shown in a single row of Table 12.

[0018] The ZFN and/or TALEN as described herein may bind to and/or cleave the region of interest in a coding or non-coding region within or adjacent to the gene, such as, for example, a leader sequence, trailer sequence or intron, or within a nontranscribed region, either am or downstream of the coding region. In certain embodiments, the ZFN binds to and/or cleaves an albumin gene. In other embodiments, the ZFN and/or TALEN binds to and/or cleaves a arbor gene, for example a CCR5 gene, a PPP1R12C (also known as AAVS1) gene or a Rosa gene.

See, e.g., U.S. Patent Publication Nos. 20080299580; 20080159996 and 201000218264. In another aspect, described herein are compositions comprising one or more of the zinc-finger and/or TALE nucleases bed herein. In certain embodiments, the ition comprises one or more zinc-finger and/or TALE nucleases in combination with a pharmaceutically acceptable excipient.

In another aspect, described herein is a polynucleotide encoding one or more ZFNs and/or TALENs bed herein. The polynucleotide may be, for example, mRNA. In some aspects, the mRNA may be chemically modified (See e.g.

Kormann et al, (2011) Nature Biotechnology 29(2):154-157).

In another aspect, described herein is a ZFN and/or TALEN expression vector sing a polynucleotide, encoding one or more ZFNs and/or TALENs [Text continued on page 8] 2012/056539 described herein, operably linked to a promoter. In one ment, the expression vector is a Viral vector. In one aspect, the Viral vector exhibits tissue specific tropism.

In another , described herein is a host cell comprising one or more ZFN and/or TALEN expression vectors. The host cell may be stably transformed or transiently transfected or a combination thereof with one or more ZFP or TALEN expression vectors. In one embodiment, the host cell is an embryonic stem cell. In other embodiments, the one or more ZFP and/or TALEN expression vectors express one or more ZFNs and/or TALENS in the host cell. In another embodiment, the host cell may further comprise an exogenous polynucleotide donor sequence. Non-limiting es of suitable host cells include eukaryotic cells or cell lines such as secretory cells (e. g, liver cells, mucosal cells, salivary gland cells, pituitary cells, etc.), blood cells (red blood cells), stem cells, etc. In any of the embodiments described herein the host cell can comprise an embryo cell, for example, of a mouse, rat, rabbit or other mammal cell embryo.

[0022] In another aspect, described herein is a method for cleaving an albumin gene in a cell, the method comprising: introducing, into the cell, one or more polynucleotides encoding one or more ZFNs and/or TALENs that bind to a target site in the one or more n genes under conditions such that the ZFN(s) is (are) or TALENs is (are) expressed and the one or more albumin genes are cleaved.

[0023] In other embodiments, a genomic sequence in any target gene is replaced, for example using a ZFN or TALEN (or vector encoding said ZFN or TALEN) as described herein and a “donor” sequence (e.g, transgene) that is inserted into the gene ing targeted cleavage with the ZFN and/or TALEN. The donor sequence may be present in the ZFN or TALEN vector, present in a separate vector (e. g., Ad or LV ) or, alternatively, may be introduced into the cell using a ent nucleic acid delivery mechanism. Such insertion of a donor nucleotide sequence into the target locus (e.g., n gene, other safe-harbor gene, etc.) results in the expression of the ene carried by the donor under control of the target locus’s (e. g. albumin) genetic control elements. In some aspects, insertion of the transgene of interest, for example into an albumin gene results in expression of an intact exogenous n sequence and lacks any n encoded amino acids. In other aspects, the expressed exogenous protein is a fusion protein and comprises amino acids d by the transgene and by an albumin gene (6. g., from the endogenous target locus or, alternatively from albumin—encoding sequences on the transgene). In some instances, the albumin ces will be present on the amino (N)—terminal portion of the exogenous protein, while in , the n sequences will be present on the carboxy (C)- terminal portion of the exogenous protein. In other instances, n sequences will be present on both the N— and C—terminal portions of the exogenous protein. The albumin sequences may include full—length wild—type or mutant albumin sequences or, alternatively, may include partial albumin amino acid ces. In n embodiments, the albumin sequences (full-length or partial) serve to increase the serum half-life of the polypeptide expressed by the transgene to which it is fused and/or as a carrier. In some embodiments, the albumin- transgene fusion is located at the nous locus Within the cell while in other embodiments, the albumin-transgene coding sequence is inserted into a safe harbor within a genome. In some aspects, the safe harbor is selected from the AAVSl, Rosa, HPRT or CCRS locus (see co—owned US patent publications Nos. 20080299580; 20080159996 and 201000218264, and US Provisional patent application No. 61/556,691).

In'another aspect, the ion describes methods and compositions that can be used to express a transgene under the l of an n promoter in vivo (e.g, nous or exogenous albumin promoter). In some aspects, the transgene may encode a therapeutic protein of interest. The transgene may encode a protein such that the s of the invention can be used for production of protein that is deficient or lacking (e. g, “protein replacement”). In some instances, the protein may be involved treatment for a lysosomal storage disease. Other therapeutic proteins may be expressed, including protein therapeutics for conditions as diverse as epidermolysis bullosa or AAT deficient emphysema. In other aspects, the ene may comprise sequences (e. g., engineered sequences) such that the expressed n has characteristics which give it novel and desirable features (increased half-life, changed plasma clearance characteristics etc.) Engineered sequences can also include amino acids derived from the n sequence. In some aspects, the transgenes encode therapeutic proteins, therapeutic hormones, plasma proteins, antibodies and the like. In some aspects, the transgenes may encode ns involved in blood disorders such as clotting disorders. In some aspects, the transgenes encode structural nucleic acids (shRNAs, miRNAs and the like).

In some embodiments, the methods of the invention may be used in vivo in transgenic animal systems. In some aspects, the transgenic animal may be used in model development where the transgene encodes a human gene. In some instances, the transgenic animal may be knocked out at the ponding endogenous locus, allowing the development of an in viva system where the human protein may be d in ion. Such transgenic models may be used for screening purposes to identify small molecule, large biomolecules or other entities which may interact or modify the human protein of interest. In other aspects, the enic animals may be used for production purposes, for example, to e antibodies or other biomolecules of interest. In certain embodiments, the animal is a small mammal, for example a dog, rabbit or a rodent such as rat, a mouse or a guinea pig. In other embodiments, the animal is a man primate. In yet filrther embodiments, the animal is a farm animal such as a cow, goat or pig. In some aspects, the ene is integrated into the selected locus (e. g, albumin or safe-harbor) into a stem cell (e.g., an embryonic stem cell, an induced pluripotent stem cell, a hepatic stem cell, etc.) or animal embryo obtained by any of the s described herein, and then the embryo is ted such that a live animal is born. The animal is then raised to sexual maturity and allowed to produce offspring wherein at least some of the offspring comprise the integrated transgene.

[0026] In a still further aspect, ed herein is a method for site specific integration of a nucleic acid sequence into an endogenous locus (e. g., albumin gene) of a chromosome, for example into the chromosome of an . In certain embodiments, the method comprises: (a) injecting an embryo with (i) at least one DNA vector, wherein the DNA vector comprises an upstream sequence and a downstream sequence flanking the nucleic acid sequence to be integrated, and (ii) at least one RNA molecule encoding a Zinc finger and/or TALE nuclease that recognizes the site of integration in the target locus (e. g, albumin locus), and (b) culturing the embryo to allow expression of the zinc finger and/or TALE nuclease, wherein a double stranded break introduced into the site of integration by the zinc finger nuclease or TALEN is repaired, via homologous recombination with the DNA vector, so as to integrate the nucleic acid sequence into the chromosome.

Suitable embryos may be derived from several different vertebrate species, including mammalian, bird, reptile, amphibian, and fish species. Generally speaking, a suitable embryo is an embryo that may be ted, injected, and cultured to allow the sion of a zinc finger or TALE nuclease. In some embodiments, suitable embryos may include embryos from small mammals (e.g., rodents, rabbits, etc), companion animals, livestock, and primates. Non-limiting examples of rodents may include mice, rats, rs, gerbils, and guinea pigs. Non-limiting examples of companion animals may include cats, dogs, s, hedgehogs, and ferrets. Non- ng examples of livestock may include horses, goats, sheep, swine, llamas, alpacas, and cattle. Non-limiting examples ofprimates may include capuchin monkeys, chimpanzees, lemurs, macaques, marmosets, tamarins, spider monkeys, squirrel monkeys, and vervet monkeys. In other embodiments, suitable embryos may include embryos from fish, es, amphibians, or birds. Alternatively, suitable embryos may be insect embryos, for instance, a Drosophz'la embryo or a mosquito embryo.

In any of the methods or compositions described herein, the cell containing the engineered locus (e. g., albumin locus) can be a stem cell. Specific stem cell types that may be used with the methods and compositions of the invention e embryonic stem cells (ESC), induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) and hepatic or liver stem cells. The iPSCs can be derived from patient s and from normal controls n the t derived iPSC can be mutated to normal gene sequence at the gene of interest, or normal cells can be altered to the known disease allele at the gene of interest. Similarly, the hepatic stem cells can be isolated from a patient. These cells are then engineered to express the transgene of interest, expanded and then reintroduced into the patient.

In any of the methods described herein, the polynucleotide encoding the zinc finger nuclease(s) and/or TALEN(s) can comprise DNA, RNA or ations thereof. In certain embodiments, the polynucleotide comprises a d. In other embodiments, the polynucleotide encoding the nuclease comprises mRNA.

Also provided is an embryo comprising at least one DNA vector, wherein the DNA vector comprises an am sequence and a downstream sequence flanking the nucleic acid sequence to be integrated, and at least one RNA molecule encoding a zinc finger nuclease that recognizes the chromosomal site of integration. Organisms derived from any of the s as described herein are also ed (e.g, embryos that are allowed to develop to sexual maturity and produce progeny).

In another aspect provided by the methods and compositions of the invention is the use of cells, cell lines and animals (6. g., transgenic s) in the screening of drug libraries and/or other therapeutic compositions (i.e., antibodies, ural RNAs, etc.) for use in treatment of an animal afflicted with a clotting factor disorder. Such screens can begin at the cellular level with manipulated cell lines or y cells, and can progress up to the level of treatment of a whole animal (6.g, human).

[0032] A kit, comprising the ZFPs and/or TALENs of the invention, is also provided. The kit may comprise nucleic acids ng the ZFPs or TALENs, (e. g, RNA molecules or ZFP or TALEN encoding genes contained in a suitable expression vector), donor molecules, suitable host cell lines, instructions for performing the methods of the invention, and the like.

[0033] Thus, the disclosure herein includes, but is not limited to, the following embodiments: l. A non—naturally occurring fitsion protein comprising a DNA- binding protein that binds to an endogenous n gene and a cleavage domain, wherein the fusion protein modifies the endogenous albumin gene.

[0035] 2. The fusion protein of embodiment 1, wherein the nding protein comprises a zinc finger protein. 3. The fusion protein of embodiment 2, n the zinc finger protein comprises 4, 5 or 6 Zinc finger s comprising a recognition helix region, wherein the zinc finger ns comprise the recognition helix regions shown in a single row of Table 1, Table 3, Table 5 or Table 8. 4. The fusion protein of embodiment 1, wherein the nding protein comprises a TALE DNA—binding domain. 5. The fusion protein of embodiment 4, wherein the TALE DNA- binding domain binds to a target sequence shown in a single row of Table 12.

[0039] 6. A polynucleotide encoding one or more fiJsion proteins of embodiments 1 to 5. 7. An isolated cell comprising one or more fusion proteins according to embodiments l to 5 or one or more polynucleotides according to embodiment 6. 8. The cell of ment 7, wherein the cell is a stem cell or an embryo cell. 9. The cell of embodiment 8, wherein the stem cell is ed from the group consisting of an embryonic stem cell (ESC), an induced otent stem cell , a hepatic stem cell and a liver stem cell. 10. A kit comprising a fusion protein according to embodiments 1 to 5 or a polynucleotide ing to embodiment 6 or a cell according to embodiment 7— 11. A method of cleaving an endogenous albumin gene in a cell, the method comprising: introducing, into the cell, one or more expression vectors comprising at least one polynucleotide according to embodiment 6, under conditions such that the one or more fusion proteins are expressed and the albumin gene is cleaved. 12. The method of ment 11, wherein the polynucleotide comprises an AAV' vector. 13. The method of embodiment 11, wherein the cell is a liver cell. 14. A method of introducing a transgene into an endogenous albumin gene, the method comprising: cleaving the endogenous albumin gene according to the method of any of embodiments 15-17 in the presence of an exogenous polynucleotide comprising the transgene such that the transgene is integrated into the endogenous albumin gene. 15. The method of embodiment 14, n the transgene expresses a therapeutic n. 16. The method of embodiment 15, wherein the therapeutic protein is involved in ng a lysosomal storage disease, epidermolysis bullosa, AAT deficient emphysema or blood disorders such as clotting disorders. 17. The method of embodiments 15 or 16, wherein expression ofthe transgene is driven by the endogenous albumin control sequences. 18. The method of any of embodiments 15-17, wherein the transgene further ses albumin sequences. 19. The method of embodiment 18, wherein the albumin sequences are present on the amino (N)—terminal and/or carboxy (C)—terminal portion of the protein. 20. A method of increasing the serum half-life of a polypeptide expressed from a transgene integrated into an endogenous albumin gene, the method comprising introducing the transgene into the endogenous albumin gene according to the method of embodiment 18 or embodiment 19, wherein the ene expresses the polypeptide and albumin sequences such that the serum half—life of the polypeptide in increased. 21. A method of treating a subject having a disease caused by a deficiency of a polypeptide, the method comprising, introducing a ene encoding the polypeptide into an isolated cell according to the method of embodiments 14-19 such that the transgene is expressed in the isolated cell; and introducing the isolated cell into the subject, thereby treating the disease. 22. The method of ment 21, n the cell is a liver cell or a stem cell. 23. The cell of embodiment 22, wherein the stem cell is selected from the group consisting of an embryonic stem cell (ESC), an induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC), a hepatic stem cell and a liver stem cell.

These and other aspects will be readily apparent to the skilled artisan in light of disclosure as a Whole.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figure 1, panels A and B, are gels depicting the results of a Cel-I mismatch assay (SurveyorTM, Transgenomic) that quantifies the degree to which ZFN cleavage of an endogenous chromosomal target, followed by imperfect repair Via NHEJ, has d small insertions or deletions ls") of the targeted locus. For a ption of the assay see Horton et al. Methods Mol Biol. (2010) 649:247-56.

Figure 1A shows results using expression constructs for ZFNs targeted to the mouse n gene which were transfected into A cells, where the cells were treated for 3 days at 37°C following transfection, and then analyzed for the fraction of modified target sites via Cel-I is. Figure 13 shows results for the same ZFNs and cells as Figure 1A except cells were ted to hypothermic shock (30°C) during their 3 days of growth following transfection. The percent mismatch, or % indels shown at the bottom on the lanes, is a measure of the ZFN activity and demonstrates that the mouse albumin specific ZFNs are able to induce up to 53% indels following cleavage of their endogenous chromosomal target in Neuro 2A cells.

Figure 2, panels A and B, are gels depicting the results of a Cel-I mismatch assay carried out on canine D17 cells transfected with constructs expressing the canine albumin specific ZFN pair SBS 33115/SBS34077 at two concentrations of plasmid DNA, 20 or 40 ng. Figure 2A depicts the s after 3 days while Figure 2B depicts the results after 10 days. This ZFN pair was able to induce indels in ~25-30% of target site sequences at day 3.

Figure 3, panels A and B, show alignments of the albumin genes from a variety of species of interest. Figure 3A shows an alignment of exon 1 and the 5’ region of intron 1 of human (H. sapiens, SEQ ID NO:160), rhesus e monkeys (M mulatta, SEQ ID NO:73), marmoset (C. jacchus, SEQ ID NO:74), dog (C. aris, SEQ ID , rat (R. norvegicus, SEQ ID NO:75) and mouse (M musculus, SEQ ID NO:76). 3B Shows an alignment of the remainder of intron 1 and a small fragment of exon 2. This region es the Locus 1 to Locus 5 of human (SEQ ID N01161), rhesus macaque monkeys (SEQ ID NO:77), marmoset (SEQ ID NO:78), dog (SEQ ID NO:79), rat (SEQ ID NO:80) and mouse (M musculus, SEQ ID NO:81) which are loci in the albumin gene chosen for ZFN targeting. The sequences ed show the starting codon ATG (large box in Figure 3A) and the ries of exonl and intron 1 (Figure 3A) and intron 1 and exon 2 (Figure 3B).

Figure 4, panels A and B, depict the results of a Cel—I mismatch assay carried out on genomic DNA from liver tissue biopsied from mice injected with albumin—specific ZFNs expressed from a hepatotrophic AAV8 vector. The results are from 10 wild type mice rs 273- 282) injected intravenously via tail vein injection with two sets ofZFN pairs (pair 1: SBS3 0724 and 25 and pair 2: SBS30872 and SBS30873). Figure 4A is a gel that quantifies the indels present in the amplicon encompassing the pair 1 site and Figure 4B is another gel that quantifies the indels present in the amplicon that encompasses the pair 2 site. The percent of albumin genes bearing ZFN-induced ations in the liver biopsies is indicated at the bottom ofthe lanes, and demonstrates that the albumin ZFN pairs are capable of modifying up to 17% of targets when the nucleases are delivered in viva.

Figure 5, panels A and B, show the results of a Cel-I mismatch assay carried out on genomic DNA from liver tissue biopsied from mice injected with albumin-specific ZFNs expressed from different chimeric AAV s.

Experimental details are provided in Example 5. Figure 5A demonstrates that the ZFNs are able to cleave the albumin target in the liver in vivo when introduced into the animal via AAV—mediated gene delivery. The percent of albumin genes bearing duced ations in the liver biopsies ranged up to 16 percent. Figure 5B shows a Western blot of liver tissue using either anti-Flag antibodies or anti—p65. The open reading frames encoding the ZFNs were fused to a ce encoding a polypeptide FLAG—tag. Thus, the anti-Flag antibody detected the ZFNs and demonstrated ZFN expression in the mice receiving ZFNs. The anti-p65 antibody served as a loading l in these experiments and indicated that comparable amounts of protein were loaded in each lane.

Figure 6 shows s from a mouse study in which groups of mice were treated with the mouse albumin specific ZFN pair 30724/30725 via delivery of differing doses of different AAV serotypes, and then assessed for gene ation using the Cel—I assay. The AAV serotypes tested in this study were AAVZ/S, AAV2/6, AAVZ/8.2 and AAV2/8 (see text for details). The dose levels ranged from 5e10 to 1e12 viral genomes, and three mice were injected per group. Viral genomes present per diploid cell were also calculated and are indicated at the bottom of each lane. The percent indels induced by each treatment is also indicated below each lane and demonstrates that this ZFN pair is e of cleaving the albumin locus. Control mice were injected with ate buffered . A non—specific band is also indicated in the figure.

Figure 7 is a graph depicting the expression of human factor IX (FIX) from a transgene inserted into the mouse albumin locus in vivo. A human F.1X donor transgene was inserted into either the mouse albumin locus at intron 1 or intron 12 following cleavage with mouse albumin-specific ZFNs in wild type mice. The graph shows expression levels of FIX over a period of 8 weeks following injection of the vectors. ZFN pairs targeting either intron 1 or intron 12 of mouse albumin were used in this experiment, as well as ZFNs targeted to a human gene as a control. The donor F.IX gene was designed to be used following ion into intron 1, and thus is not expressed properly when inserted into intron 12. The human F.IX transgene is expressed at a robust level for at least 8 weeks following insertion into the mouse albumin intron 1 locus.

WO 44008 Figure 8, panels A and B, are graphs depicting the expression and functionality of the human F.IX gene in the plasma of hemophilic mice following ZFN—induced F.1Xtransgene insertion. The experiment described in Figure 7 was repeated in hemophilic mice using the albumin intron 1 c ZFNs and the human F.IX donor. Two weeks ing treatment, expression level in the serum (Figure 8A) and clotting time e 8B) were analyzed. The expression ofthe human F.IX transgene in hemophilic mice was able to restore clotting time to that of normal mice.

Figure 9 (SEQ ID N0282) provides a segment of the human albumin gene sequence encompassing parts of exon 1 and intron 1. ntal bars over the sequence indicate the target sites of the zinc finger nucleases.

Figure 10 shows an alignment of a segment of the albumin genes in intron 1 from a variety of primate species including human, H. sapiens (SEQ ID N02154), cynologous monkey variants (where sequences ‘C’ and ‘S’ derive from two different genome sequence sources): M fascicularis_c (SEQ ID NO:155) and M fascicularis_s (SEQ ID N02156) and rhesus, M mulatta (SEQ ID N02157). The figure depicts the DNA target locations of the albumin specific TALENs (indicated by the horizontal bars above the sequence).

Figure 11, panels A to C, show the s of a Cel-I assay carried out on genomic DNA ed from HepG2 cells d with TALENs or ZFNs targeted to human albumin (Figures 11A and B) and NHEJ activity of TALENs with different gap spacings (Figure 11C). The nucleases were introduced into HepG2 cells via transient plasmid transfection and quantified 3 days later for target modification via the Cel-I assay. Two variations of the TALE DNA binding domain were used, which differed in the location of their inal truncation points, the +17 version and the +63 version (see text). Pairs used are described in Table 10. In addition, three ZFN pairs were also tested and the % indels detected by the Cel 1 assay is indicated at the bottom of the lanes. Figure llC is a graph depicting NHEJ activity in terms of the gap spacing (bp) between TALEN g sites.

Figure 12, panels A, B and C depict the s ofZFN pairs directed to the rhesus macaque albumin locus. Figure 12A shows the percent ofNHEJ activity for the 35396/36806 pair in comparison with the 353 96/3 6797 pair, tested in RF/6A cells in 3 independent experiments all done using a ZFN concentration of 400 ng.

Figure 12B depicts a dose titration for the two pairs, from 50 ng of each ZFN to 400 ng where the samples were analyzed at day 3 following transduction. The lower half of Figure 12B depicts r experiment comparing the two pairs at day 3 or day 10 using 400 ng of ZFN. Figure 12C depicts the results of the SELEX analysis (done at 100 mM salt concentration) of the three ZFNs that were being compared where the size of the bar above the middle line shows the results for that position that were expected (i.e., a single bar with a value of 1.0 above the line would mean that every base at that position analyzed in the SELEX analysis was the expected base), while bars below the line te the presence of non-expected bases. Bars that are d indicate the relative contributions of other bases.

[0070] Figure 13, panels A and B, demonstrate the insertion of a huGLa transgene donor ent in ts afflicted with Fabry’s disease) into the albumin locus in mice. Figure 13A shows a Western blot t the huGLa protein encoded by the transgene, where the arrow indicates the presumed protein. Comparison of the mouse samples from those mice that received both ZFN and donor (samples 1—1, 1-2 and 1—3) with the samples that either received only ZFN (4-1, 4—2, 4—3) or those that only received the huGLa donor (“hu Fabry donor”), samples 5-1 and 5-2 leads to identification of a band that coincides with the human liver lysate control. Figure 13B depicts ELISA results using a huGLa c ELISA kit, where samples were analyzed from mice either 14 or 30 days following virus introduction (see text for details). Error bars represent standard deviations (n=3). The results demonstrate that the mice that received both the ZFN and donor had higher amounts ofhuGLa signal that those that only received ZFN or only received donor.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0071] Disclosed herein are compositions and methods for modifying an endogenous n gene, for example, for expressing a transgene in a secretory tissue. In some embodiments, the transgene is inserted into an endogenous albumin gene to allow for very high expression levels that are moreover limited to hepatic tissue. The transgene can encode any protein or peptide including those providing eutic benefit.

Thus, the methods and compositions of the invention can be used to express therapeutically ial proteins (from a transgene) from highly expressed loci in secretory tissues. For example, the transgene can encode a protein involved in disorders of the blood, for example, clotting disorders, and a variety of other monogenic diseases. In some embodiments, the transgene can be inserted into the endogenous n locus such that expression of the transgene is controlled by the albumin expressional l elements, resulting in liver—specific expression of the transgene encoded protein at high concentrations. Proteins that may be expressed may include clotting s such as Factor VII, Factor VIII, Factor IX, Factor X, Factor XI, Factor XIII, vWF and the like, antibodies, proteins relevant to lyososomal storage, insulin, alpha 1—antitrypsin, and indeed any peptide or protein that when so expressed provides benefit.

[0073] In addition, any transgene can be introduced into patient d cells, 6. g. patient derived d pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) or other types Of stem cells (embryonic, pOietic, neural, or mesenchymal as a non-limiting set) for use in al implantation into secretory tissues. The transgene can be introduced into any region of st in these cells, including, but not limited to, into an n gene or a safe harbor gene. These altered stem cells can be differentiated for example, into hepatocytes and implanted into the liver. Alternately, the transgene can be directed to the secretory tissue as desired through the use of viral or other delivery systems that target specific tissues. For example, use of the liver—trophic adenovirus associated virus (AAV) vector AAV8 as a delivery vehicle can result in the integration of the transgene at the desired locus when specific nucleases are co—delivered with the transgene.

General ce Of the methods, as well as preparation and use of the compositions disclosed herein employ, unless otherwise indicated, conventional techniques in molecular biology, biochemistry, chromatin ure and analysis, ational chemistry, cell culture, recombinant DNA and related fields as are Within the skill of the art. These techniques are fully explained in the ture. See, for example, Sambrook et al. MOLECULAR CLONING: A LABORATORY MANUAL, Second edition, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press, 1989 and Third edition, 2001; Ausubel et al., CURRENT PROTOCOLS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY, John Wiley & Sons, New York, 1987 and periodic updates; the series METHODS IN ENZYMOLOGY, Academic Press, San Diego; Wolffe, CHROMATIN URE AND FUNCTION, Third n, Academic Press, San Diego, 1998; METHODS IN ENZYMOLOGY, Vol. 304, “Chromatin” (PM. Wassarman and A. P. Wolffe, eds), Academic Press, San Diego, 1999; and METHODS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY, Vol. 119, “Chromatin ols” (P.B. Becker, ed.) Humana Press, Totowa, 1999.

Definitions The terms "nucleic acid," "polynucleotide," and "oligonucleotide" are used interchangeably and refer to a deoxyribonucleotide or ribonucleotide polymer, in linear or circular conformation, and in either single- or double-stranded form. For the purposes of the present disclosure, these terms are not to be construed as limiting with respect to the length of a polymer. The terms can encompass known analogues of natural nucleotides, as well as nucleotides that are modified in the base, sugar and/or phosphate moieties (e. g. phosphorothioate backbones). In general, an analogue of a particular nucleotide has the same base-pairing specificity; i. e. an ue ofA will base-pair with T.

[0076] The terms "polypeptide," "peptide" and "protein" are used interchangeably to refer to a polymer of amino acid es. The term also applies to amino acid polymers in which one or more amino acids are chemical analogues or modified derivatives of corresponding naturally-occurring amino acids.

"Binding" refers to a sequence-specific, valent interaction between olecules (e. g. between a protein and a c acid). Not all ents of a binding interaction need be sequence-specific (e.g, contacts with ate residues in a DNA backbone), as long as the ction as a whole is sequence-specific. Such interactions are generally characterized by a iation constant (Kd) of 10'6 M'1 or lower. “Affinity” refers to the strength of binding: increased binding affinity being correlated with a lower Kd.

A "binding protein" is a protein that is able to bind non—covalently to another molecule. A binding protein can bind to, for example, a DNA molecule (a DNA- binding protein), an RNA molecule (an RNA-binding protein) and/or a protein molecule (a protein—binding protein). In the case of a protein-binding protein, it can bind to itself (to form homodimers, homotrimers, etc.) and/or it can bind to one or more molecules of a different protein or proteins. A g protein can have more than one type of binding activity. For example, zinc finger proteins have DNA-binding, RNA—binding and protein- binding activity.

A "zinc finger DNA binding protein" (or binding domain) is a n, or a domain within a larger protein, that binds DNA in a sequence-specific manner through one or more zinc fingers, which are s of amino acid sequence Within the binding domain whose structure is stabilized through coordination of a zinc ion. The term zinc finger DNA binding protein is often abbreviated as zinc finger protein or ZFP.

A “TALE DNA binding domain” or “TALE” is a polypeptide comprising one or more TALE repeat domains/units. The repeat domains are involved in binding of the TALE to its cognate target DNA sequence. A single “repeat unit” (also referred to as a “repea ”) is typically 33-35 amino acids in length and exhibits at least some ce homology with other TALE repeat sequences within a naturally occurring TALE protein.

See, 6. g., US. Patent Publication No. 20110301073, incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

Zinc finger and TALE binding domains can be "engineered" to bind to a predetermined nucleotide ce, for example via engineering ing one or more amino acids) ofthe recognition helix region of a naturally occurring zinc finger or TALE protein. Therefore, engineered DNA binding proteins (zinc fingers or TALES) are proteins that are non—naturally occurring. miting es of methods for engineering DNA—binding proteins are design and selection. A designed DNA binding protein is a protein not occurring in nature whose design/composition results pally from rational criteria. Rational criteria for design include application of substitution rules and computerized thms for processing information in a database storing information of existing ZFP and/or TALE designs and binding data. See, for example, US Patents 6,140,081; 6,453,242; and 6,534,261; see also W0 98/53058; W0 98/53059; W0 60; WO 02/016536 and W0 03/016496 and US. Publication No. 20110301073.

A "selected" zinc finger protein or TALE is a n not found in nature whose production results primarily from an empirical process such as phage display, interaction trap or hybrid ion. See e.g., US 5,789,538; US 523; US 6,007,988; US 6,013,453; US 6,200,759; W0 95/19431; W0 96/06166; WO 98/53057; WO 98/54311; WO 00/27878; W0 01/60970 W0 01/88197; WO 02/099084 and US. Publication No. 01073.

"Recombination" refers to a process of exchange of genetic information between two polynucleotides. For the purposes of this disclosure, ogous recombination (HR)" refers to the specialized form of such exchange that takes place, for example, during repair of -strand breaks in cells via homology—directed repair isms. This process requires nucleotide sequence homology, uses a "donor" molecule to template repair of a "target" molecule (126., the one that experienced the double—strand break), and is sly known as "non- ver gene conversion" or "short tract gene conversion," because it leads to the transfer of genetic information from the donor to the target. Without Wishing to be bound by any particular theory, such transfer can involve mismatch correction of heteroduplex DNA that forms between the broken target and the donor, and/or "synthesis-dependent strand annealing," in which the donor is used to re-synthesize genetic information that will become part of the target, and/or related processes. Such specialized HR often results in an alteration of the sequence of the target molecule such that part or all of the sequence of the donor polynucleotide is orated into the target polynucleotide.

[0084] In the methods ofthe disclosure, one or more targeted nucleases as described herein create a double—stranded break in the target sequence (e.g, ar chromatin) at a predetermined site, and a “donor” polynucleotide, having gy to the nucleotide sequence in the region of the break, can be introduced into the cell.

The presence ofthe double-stranded break has been shown to facilitate integration of the donor sequence. The donor sequence may be physically integrated or, alternatively, the donor polynucleotide is used as a template for repair of the break via homologous recombination, resulting in the introduction of all or part of the nucleotide sequence as in the donor into the cellular chromatin. Thus, a first sequence in cellular chromatin can be altered and, in certain embodiments, can be converted into a sequence t in a donor polynucleotide. Thus, the use of the terms “replace” or “replacemen ” can be understood to represent replacement of one nucleotide sequence by another, (1‘. e. , replacement of a ce in the informational sense), and does not necessarily e al or chemical replacement of one polynucleotide by another.

[0085] In any of the methods described , additional pairs of zinc-finger or TALEN proteins can be used for additional double-stranded cleavage of additional target sites within the cell.

In certain embodiments of methods for targeted recombination and/or replacement and/or alteration of a sequence in a region of interest in cellular chromatin, a chromosomal sequence is altered by homologous recombination with an exogenous “donor” nucleotide sequence. Such homologous recombination is stimulated by the presence of a double—stranded break in cellular chromatin, if sequences homologous to the region of the break are present.

In any of the methods described herein, the first nucleotide sequence (the “donor sequence”) can contain sequences that are homologous, but not cal, to genomic sequences in the region of interest, thereby stimulating homologous recombination to insert a non—identical sequence in the region of interest. Thus, in certain embodiments, portions of the donor sequence that are homologous to sequences in the region of interest exhibit between about 80 to 99% (or any value therebetween) sequence identity to the genomic sequence that is replaced. In other embodiments, the homology between the donor and genomic sequence is higher than 99%, for example if only 1 nucleotide differs as n donor and genomic sequences of over 101 contiguous base pairs. In certain cases, a non—homologous portion of the donor ce can contain sequences not present in the region of interest, such that new sequences are introduced into the region of interest. In these instances, the non—homologous sequence is generally flanked by sequences of 50— 1,000 base pairs (or any integral value therebetween) or any number of base pairs greater than 1,000, that are gous or identical to sequences in the region of interest. In other embodiments, the donor sequence is non—homologous to the first sequence, and is ed into the genome by non-homologous recombination mechanisms.

[0088] Any of the methods described herein can be used for l or complete inactivation of one or more target ces in a cell by targeted integration of donor sequence that disrupts expression of the gene(s) of interest. Cell lines with lly or completely inactivated genes are also ed.

Furthermore, the methods eted integration as described herein can also be used to integrate one or more exogenous sequences. The exogenous nucleic acid sequence can comprise, for example, one or more genes or cDNA molecules, or any type of coding or non—coding sequence, as well as one or more control elements (e.g., ers). In addition, the ous c acid sequence WO 44008 may produce one or more RNA molecules (e.g., small hairpin RNAs (shRNAs), inhibitory RNAS (RNAis), microRNAs (miRNAs), eta).

"Cleavage" refers to the breakage of the nt backbone of a DNA molecule. Cleavage can be ted by a variety of methods ing, but not limited to, enzymatic or chemical hydrolysis of a phosphodiester bond. Both single—stranded cleavage and double—stranded ge are possible, and double—stranded cleavage can occur as a result of two distinct single-stranded cleavage events. DNA cleavage can result in the production of either blunt ends or staggered ends. In certain embodiments, fusion polypeptides are used for ed double-stranded DNA ge.

[0091] A "cleavage half-domain" is a polypeptide sequence which, in conjunction with a second polypeptide (either identical or different) forms a complex having cleavage activity (preferably double-strand cleavage activity). The terms “first and second cleavage half—domains,” “+ and — cleavage half-domains” and “right and left cleavage half-domains” are used interchangeably to refer to pairs of cleavage half— domains that dimerize.

An “engineered cleavage half-domain” is a cleavage half-domain that has been modified so as to form obligate heterodimers with r cleavage half— domain (e.g., another engineered cleavage half-domain). See, also, US. Patent Publication Nos. 2005/0064474, 20070218528, 2008/0131962 and 2011/0201055, incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

The term "sequence" refers to a tide sequence of any length, which can be DNA or RNA; can be linear, circular or branched and can be either single—stranded or double stranded. The term "donor sequence" refers to a nucleotide sequence that is inserted into a . A donor sequence can be of any length, for example between 2 and 10,000 nucleotides in length (or any integer value therebetween or thereabove), preferably between about 100 and 1,000 nucleotides in length (or any integer therebetween), more preferably between about 200 and 500 nucleotides in length.

[0094] "Chromatin" is the nucleoprotein structure comprising the cellular . Cellular chromatin comprises nucleic acid, primarily DNA, and protein, including histones and stone chromosomal proteins. The majority of eukaryotic ar chromatin exists in the form of nucleosomes, wherein a nucleosome core comprises approximately 150 base pairs ofDNA associated with an octamer comprising two each of histones H2A, H2B, H3 and H4; and linker DNA (of variable length depending on the organism) extends between nucleosome cores. A molecule of histone H1 is generally associated with the linker DNA. For the purposes of the present disclosure, the term “chromatin” is meant to encompass all types of cellular nucleoprotein, both prokaryotic and eukaryotic. Cellular chromatin es both chromosomal and al chromatin.

A "chromosome," is a chromatin complex comprising all or a n of the genome of a cell. The genome of a cell is often characterized by its karyotype, which is the collection of all the chromosomes that comprise the genome of the cell.

The genome of a cell can comprise one or more chromosomes.

An "episome" is a replicating nucleic acid, nucleoprotein complex or other structure comprising a nucleic acid that is not part of the chromosomal ype of a cell. es of episomes include plasmids and certain viral genomes.

A "target site" or "target sequence" is a nucleic acid sequence that defines a portion of a nucleic acid to which a binding molecule will bind, provided sufficient conditions for binding exist.

An nous" molecule is a molecule that is not normally present in a cell, but can be introduced into a cell by one or more genetic, biochemical or other methods. l presence in the cell” is determined with respect to the particular developmental stage and environmental conditions of the cell. Thus, for example, a le that is present only during nic development of muscle is an exogenous molecule with respect to an adult muscle cell. Similarly, a molecule induced by heat shock is an exogenous molecule with respect to a non-heat—shocked cell. An exogenous molecule can se, for example, a oning version of a malfunctioning endogenous molecule or a malfunctioning version of a normally- functioning endogenous molecule.

An exogenous le can be, among other things, a small molecule, such as is generated by a combinatorial chemistry process, or a macromolecule such as a protein, nucleic acid, carbohydrate, lipid, rotein, otein, polysaccharide, any modified derivative of the above molecules, or any complex comprising one or more of the above molecules. Nucleic acids include DNA and RNA, can be single- or -stranded; can be linear, ed or circular; and can be of any length. Nucleic acids include those capable of forming duplexes, as well as triplex-forming nucleic acids. See, for example, US. Patent Nos. 5,176,996 and ,422,251. Proteins e, but are not limited to, DNA-binding proteins, transcription factors, chromatin remodeling factors, methylated DNA binding proteins, polymerases, methylases, demethylases, acetylases, deacetylases, kinases, phosphatases, integrases, inases, ligases, topoisomerases, gyrases and helicases.

An exogenous molecule can be the same type of le as an endogenous molecule, e. g. an exogenous protein or nucleic acid.

, For e, an exogenous nucleic acid can comprise an infecting viral genome, a plasmid or episome introduced into a cell, or a chromosome that is not normally present in the cell.

Methods for the introduction of exogenous molecules into cells are known to those of skill in the art and include, but are not d to, lipid-mediated transfer (i. e. , liposomes, including neutral and ic lipids), electroporation, direct injection, cell fusion, particle bombardment, calcium ate co-precipitation, DEAE-dextran— mediated transfer and Viral vector—mediated transfer. An exogenous molecule can also be the same type of molecule as an endogenous molecule but derived from a different species than the cell is derived from. For example, a human c acid sequence may be introduced into a cell line originally d from a mouse or hamster.

By contrast, an "endogenous" molecule is one that is normally present in a particular cell at a particular developmental stage under ular environmental ions. For example, an endogenous nucleic acid can comprise a chromosome, the genome of a mitochondrion, chloroplast or other organelle, or a naturally- occurring al c acid. Additional endogenous molecules can include ns, for example, transcription factors and enzymes.

A "fusion" molecule is a molecule in which two or more subunit les are linked, preferably covalently. The subunit molecules can be the same chemical type of molecule, or can be different chemical types of molecules.

Examples ofthe first type of fiision molecule include, but are not limited to, fusion proteins (for example, a fusion between a ZFP or TALE DNA-binding domain and one or more activation domains) and fusion nucleic acids (for example, a nucleic acid encoding the fusion protein described supra). Examples of the second type of fusion WO 44008 molecule include, but are not limited to, a fusion between a triplex-forming nucleic acid and a ptide, and a fusion between a minor groove binder and a nucleic acid.

Expression of a fusion protein in a cell can result from delivery of the fusion protein to the cell or by ry of a polynucleotide encoding the fiision protein to a cell, wherein the polynucleotide is transcribed, and the transcript is translated, to generate the fusion n. Trans-splicing, polypeptide cleavage and polypeptide ligation can also be involved in expression of a protein in a cell. Methods for cleotide and polypeptide delivery to cells are presented elsewhere in this disclosure.

A "gene," for the purposes of the present disclosure, es a DNA region encoding a gene product (see infia), as well as all DNA s which regulate the production of the gene product, whether or not such regulatory sequences are adjacent to coding and/or transcribed sequences. Accordingly, a gene includes, but is not necessarily limited to, promoter ces, terminators, translational regulatory sequences such as ribosome binding sites and internal ribosome entry sites, enhancers, silencers, insulators, boundary elements, replication origins, matrix attachment sites and locus control regions.

"Gene expression" refers to the conversion of the information, contained in a gene, into a gene product. A gene product can be the direct transcriptional product of a gene (e. g. , mRNA, tRNA, rRNA, antisense RNA, ribozyrne, structural RNA or any other type of RNA) or a protein produced by translation of an mRNA. Gene products also include RNAs which are modified, by processes such as capping, polyadenylation, methylation, and editing, and proteins modified by, for example, methylation, acetylation, phosphorylation, ubiquitination, ADP-ribosylation, myristilation, and glycosylation.

"Modulation" of gene sion refers to a change in the activity of a gene. Modulation of expression can include, but is not limited to, gene activation and gene repression. Genome editing (e.g, cleavage, alteration, inactivation, random on) can be used to modulate expression. Gene inactivation refers to any reduction in gene expression as compared to a cell that does not e a ZFP or TALEN as described herein. Thus, gene inactivation may be partial or complete. 2012/056539 A "region of interest" is any region of cellular chromatin, such as, for example, a gene or a non-coding sequence within or adjacent to a gene, in which it is desirable to bind an ous molecule. Binding can be for the es of ed DNA cleavage and/or targeted recombination. A region of interest can be present in a chromosome, an episome, an organellar genome (e.g, mitochondrial, chloroplast), or an ing Viral genome, for example. A region of interest can be within the coding region of a gene, within transcribed non-coding regions such as, for example, leader sequences, trailer sequences or introns, or within non—transcribed regions, either upstream or downstream of the coding region. A region of interest can be as small as a single nucleotide pair or up to 2,000 nucleotide pairs in , or any integral value of nucleotide pairs.

"Eukaryotic" cells include, but are not limited to, fungal cells (such as yeast), plant cells, animal cells, mammalian cells and human cells (e.g, T-cells).

“Secretory tissues” are those tissues that secrete products. Examples of secretory tissues that are localized to the gastrointestinal tract include the cells that line the gut, the pancreas, and the gallbladder. Other secretory tissues include the liver, tissues associated with the eye and mucous membranes such as salivary glands, mammary glands, the prostate gland, the pituitary gland and other members of the endocrine system. Additionally, secretory tissues include dual cells of a tissue type which are capable of secretion.

The terms "operative linkage" and "operatively linked" (or “operably ”) are used interchangeably with reference to a juxtaposition of two or more ents (such as sequence ts), in which the components are arranged such that both components function normally and allow the possibility that at least one of the components can mediate a function that is exerted upon at least one of the other components. By way of illustration, a transcriptional tory sequence, such as a promoter, is ively linked to a coding sequence if the transcriptional regulatory sequence ls the level of transcription of the coding sequence in response to the presence or absence of one or more transcriptional regulatory factors. A riptional regulatory sequence is generally operatively linked in cis with a coding sequence, but need not be directly adjacent to it. For example, an enhancer is a transcriptional regulatory sequence that is operatively linked to a coding sequence, even though they are not contiguous.

With respect to fusion polypeptides, the term "operatively linked" can refer to the fact that each of the components performs the same function in linkage to the other component as it would if it were not so . For example, with respect to a fiision polypeptide in which a ZFP or TALE DNA—binding domain is fused to an activation domain, the ZFP or TALE nding domain and the activation domain are in operative linkage if, in the fusion polypeptide, the ZFP or TALE DNA—binding domain portion is able to bind its target site and/or its binding site, while the activation domain is able to up-regulate gene expression. When a fusion polypeptide in which a ZFP or TALE DNA-binding domain is fused to a cleavage domain, the ZFP or TALE DNA—binding domain and the cleavage domain are in operative linkage if, in the fiision polypeptide, the ZFP or TALE DNA—binding domain portion is able to bind its target site and/or its binding site, while the cleavage domain is able to cleave DNA in the vicinity of the target site.

A "functional fragment" of a protein, polypeptide or nucleic acid is a protein, polypeptide or nucleic acid whose sequence is not identical to the full-length protein, polypeptide or nucleic acid, yet retains the same function as the full—length protein, polypeptide or nucleic acid. A functional nt can possess more, fewer, or the same number of residues as the corresponding native molecule, and/or can contain one or more amino acid or nucleotide substitutions. Methods for determining the on of a c acid (6.g, coding on, ability to hybridize to another nucleic acid) are well—known in the art. rly, methods for determining protein function are nown. For example, the DNA—binding function of a polypeptide can be determined, for example, by filter-binding, electrophoretic mobility—shift, or immunoprecipitation assays. DNA ge can be assayed by gel electrophoresis.

See Ausubel et al., supra. The ability of a protein to interact with r protein can be determined, for example, by unoprecipitation, brid assays or complementation, both genetic and biochemical. See, for example, Fields et al. (1989) Nature 340:245-246; US. Patent No. 5,585,245 and PCT WO 98/44350.

‘ A "vector" is capable of transferring gene sequences to target cells.

Typically, "vector construe H I] , expression vector," and "gene er vector," mean any nucleic acid construct capable of ing the expression of a gene of interest and which can transfer gene sequences to target cells. Thus, the term includes cloning, and expression vehicles, as well as integrating vectors.

A "reporter gene" or "reporter sequence" refers to any sequence that es a protein t that is easily measured, preferably although not necessarily in a routine assay. Suitable reporter genes include, but are not limited to, sequences encoding proteins that mediate antibiotic resistance (e.g., arnpicillin resistance, neomycin resistance, G418 resistance, puromycin ance), sequences encoding d or fluorescent or luminescent proteins (e.g., green fluorescent protein, enhanced green fluorescent protein, red fluorescent protein, luciferase), and proteins which mediate enhanced cell growth and/or gene amplification (e. g., ofolate reductase). Epitope tags include, for example, one or more copies ofFLAG, His, myc, Tap, HA or any detectable amino acid ce. “Expression tags” include sequences that encode reporters that may be operably linked to a desired gene sequence in order to monitor expression of the gene of interest.

Nucleases

[0115] Described herein are compositions, particularly nucleases, which are useful targeting a gene for the ion of a transgene, for example, nucleases that are specific for albumin. In certain embodiments, the se is naturally occurring. In other embodiments, the nuclease is non-naturally occurring, i.e., ered in the DNA-binding domain and/or cleavage domain. For example, the DNA—binding domain of a naturally—occurring nuclease may be altered to bind to a selected target site (6. g, a meganuclease that has been engineered to bind to site different than the cognate binding site). In other ments, the se comprises heterologous DNA-binding and cleavage domains (e. g., zinc finger nucleases; fector nucleases, meganuclease DNA—binding domains with heterologous cleavage domains).

A. DNA-binding domains In n ments, the nuclease is a meganuclease (homing endonuclease). lly-occurring meganucleases recognize 15—40 base-pair cleavage sites and are commonly grouped into four families: the LAGLIDADG family, the GIY—YIG family, the His-Cyst box family and the HNH family.

Exemplary homing endonucleases include I-SceI, I—CeuI, PI—PspI, PI—Sce, I—SceIV, I- CsmI, I—PanI, I—SceII, I-Ppol, I-SceIII, I—CreI, I—TevI, I-TevII and I-TevIlI. Their ition sequences are known. See also US. Patent No. 5,420,032; US. Patent No. 6,833,252; Belfort et al. (1997) Nucleic Acids Res. 25:3379—33 88; Dujon et al. (1989) Gene 82: 1 15—1 18; Perler et al. (1994) Nucleic Acids Res. 22, 1125—1127; Jasin (1996) Trends Genet. 12:224—228; Gimble et al. (1996) J Mol. Biol. 263:163— 180; Argast et al. (1998) J Mol. Biol. 5—353 and the New England Biolabs catalogue.

In certain embodiments, the nuclease comprises an engineered (non- naturally occurring) homing endonuclease (meganuclease). The recognition sequences of homing endonucleases and meganucleases such as I-Scel, , PI— Pspl, PI-Sce, I-SceIV, I-Csml, , I—SceII, I—Ppol, I—SceIII, , I—Tevl, I-TevII and I-TevIII are known. See also US. Patent No. 5,420,032; U.S. Patent No. 6,833,252; Belfort et al. (1997) Nucleic Acids Res. 25:3379w3388; Dujon et al. (1989) Gene 82:115—118; Perler et al. (1994) Nucleic Acids Res. 22, 1125—1127; Jasin (1996) Trends Genet. —228; Gimble et al. (1996) J. M01. Biol. 263:163— 180; Argast et al. (1998) .1 Mol. Biol. 280:345—353 and the New England Biolabs catalogue. In addition, the DNA-binding city of homing endonucleases and meganucleases can be engineered to bind non—natural target sites. See, for e, Chevalier et al. (2002) Molec. Cell 10:895-905; Epinat et al. (2003) Nucleic Acids Res. 31:2952-2962; Ashworth et al. (2006) Nature 441:656-659; Paques et al. (2007) Current Gene Therapy 7:49-66; US. Patent Publication No. 20070117128.

The DNA—binding domains ofthe homing endonucleases and meganucleases may be altered in the context of the se as a whole (i. e., such that the nuclease includes the cognate cleavage domain) or may be fused to a heterologous ge domain.

In other embodiments, the DNA-binding domain comprises a naturally occurring or engineered (non-naturally occurring) TALE DNA binding domain. See, e. g, US Patent Publication No. 2011/0301073, incorporated by reference in its entirety herein. The plant enic bacteria of the genus Xanthomonas are known to cause many diseases in important crop plants. Pathogenicity ofXanthomonas depends on a conserved type III secretion (T3 S) system which s more than 25 different effector proteins into the plant cell. Among these injected proteins are transcription activator-like effectors (TALE) which mimic plant transcriptional activators and manipulate the plant riptome (see Kay et al (2007) Science 318:648-651). These proteins contain a DNA binding domain and a transcriptional tion domain. One of the most well characterized TALES is AvrBs3 from Xanthomonas tgris pV. Vesicatoria (see Bonas et al (1989) Mol Gen Genet 218: 6 and WO2010079430). TALES contain a centralized domain of tandem repeats, each repeat containing approximately 34 amino acids, which are key to the DNA binding specificity of these proteins. In addition, they contain a nuclear localization sequence and an acidic transcriptional activation domain (for a review see Schornack S, et al (2006) JPlant Physiol 163(3): 256-272). In addition, in the phytopathogenic bacteria Ralstonia solanacearum two genes, designated brgll and hpx17 have been found that are homologous to the AvrBs3 family ofXanthomonas in the R. solanacearum biovar 1 strain GMIlOOO and in the biovar 4 strain RSlOOO (See Heuer et al (2007) Appl and Envir Micro 73(13): 4379—4384). These genes are 98.9% identical in nucleotide sequence to each other but differ by a deletion of 1,575 bp in the repeat domain of hpxl7. However, both gene products have less than 40% sequence identity with AvrBs3 family proteins ofXanthomonas.

[0119] Thus, in some embodiments, the DNA binding domain that binds to a target site in a target locus (e.g, n or safe harbor) is an engineered domain from a TALE similar to those derived from the plant pathogens Xanthomonas (see Boch et al, (2009) Science 326: 1509-1512 and Moscou and ove, (2009) e326: 1501) and nia (see Heuer et al (2007) Applied and Environmental Microbiology 73(13): 4379-4384); US. Patent Publication No. 2011/0301073 and US. Patent ation No. 20110145940.

In n embodiments, the DNA binding domain comprises a zinc finger n (e.g, a zinc finger protein that binds to a target site in an albumin or safe-harbor gene). Preferably, the zinc finger protein is non—naturally occurring in that it is engineered to bind to a target site of choice. See, for example, See, for example, Beerli et al. (2002) Nature Biotechnol. 20:135-141; Pabo et al. (2001) Ann.

Rev. Biochem. 70:313-340; lsalan et al. (2001) Nature Biotechnol. 192656-660; Segal et al. (2001) Curr. Opin. Biotechnol. 12:632-637; Choo et al. (2000) Curr. Opin.

Struct. Biol. 10:411—416; US. Patent Nos. 6,453,242; 6,534,261; 6,599,692; 6,503,717; 6,689,558; 7,030,215; 6,794,136; 7,067,317; 7,262,054; 7,070,934; 7,361,635; 7,253,273; and US. Patent Publication Nos. 2005/0064474; 2007/0218528; 267061, all incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

An engineered zinc finger g or TALE domain can have a novel binding specificity, compared to a naturally—occurring zinc finger protein.

Engineering methods include, but are not d to, rational design and various types of selection. Rational design includes, for example, using ses comprising triplet (or plet) nucleotide sequences and individual zinc finger amino acid sequences, in which each triplet or quadruplet nucleotide sequence is associated with one or more amino acid sequences of zinc fingers which bind the particular triplet or quadruplet sequence. See, for example, co-owned U.S. Patents 6,453,242 and 6,534,261, incorporated by reference herein in their entireties.

[0122] Exemplary selection methods, including phage display and brid systems, are disclosed in US Patents 5,789,538; 523; 6,007,988; 6,013,453; 6,410,248; 6,140,466; 6,200,759; and 6,242,568; as well as WO 98/37186; WO 98/53057; WO 00/27878; W0 01/88197 and GB 237. In addition, ement of binding city for zinc finger binding domains has been bed, for example, in co-owned W0 02/077227.

In addition, as disclosed in these and other references, DNA-binding s (e.g, multi—finger zinc finger proteins or TALE domains) may be linked together using any suitable linker sequences, including for example, linkers of 5 or more amino acids in length. See, also, U.S. Patent Nos. 6,479,626; 6,903,185; and 7,153,949 for exemplary linker sequences 6 or more amino acids in length. The DNA binding proteins described herein may include any combination of suitable linkers between the individual zinc fingers of the protein. In addition, enhancement of g specificity for zinc finger binding domains has been described, for e, in co-owned W0 02/077227.

[0124] Selection of target sites; DNA—binding domains and methods for design and construction of fusion proteins (and polynucleotides encoding same) are known to those of skill in the art and described in detail in U.S. Patent Nos. 6,140,0815; 789,538; 6,453,242; 6,534,261; 5,925,523; 6,007,988; 6,013,453; 6,200,759; W0 95/19431; WO 96/06166; W0 98/53057; WO 98/54311; WO 00/27878; W0 01/60970 WO 01/88197; WO 02/099084; W0 98/53058; W0 98/53059; W0 60; W0 02/016536 and W0 03/016496 and U.S.

Publication No. 201 10301073.

In addition, as disclosed in these and other references, DNA-binding domains (e.g, multi—finger zinc finger ns) may be linked together using any suitable linker sequences, including for example, linkers of 5 or more amino acids in length. See, also, US. Patent Nos. 6,479,626; 6,903,185; and 7,153,949 for exemplary linker sequences 6 or more amino acids in length. The proteins described herein may include any combination of suitable linkers between the individual zinc fingers ofthe protein.

B. Cleavage s

[0126] Any suitable cleavage domain can be operatively linked to a DNA— binding domain to form a nuclease. For example, ZFP nding domains have been fused to nuclease s to create ZFNs — a functional entity that is able to recognize its ed nucleic acid target h its engineered (ZFP) DNA binding domain and cause the DNA to be cut near the ZFP binding site via the nuclease activity. See, e.g., Kim et al. (1996) Proc Nat ’l Acad Sci USA 93(3): 1 156-1 160.

More recently, ZFNs have been used for genome ation in a variety of organisms. See, for example, United States Patent Publications 20030232410; 20050208489; 20050026157; 20050064474; 20060188987; 20060063231; and International Publication W0 07/014275. Likewise, TALE nding domains have been fused to nuclease domains to create TALENs. See, e. g., U.S. Publication No. 20110301073.

As noted above, the cleavage domain may be heterologous to the nding domain, for example a zinc finger DNA—binding domain and a ge domain from a nuclease or a TALEN DNA-binding domain and a cleavage domain, or meganuclease DNA-binding domain and cleavage domain from a ent nuclease. Heterologous cleavage domains can be obtained from any endonuclease or exonuclease. Exemplary endonucleases from which a cleavage domain can be derived include, but are not limited to, restriction endonucleases and homing endonucleases. See, for example, 2002-2003 Catalogue, New England Biolabs, Beverly, MA; and Belfort et al. (1997) Nucleic Acids Res. 9-3388. Additional enzymes which cleave DNA are known (e. g. , Sl Nuclease; mung bean nuclease; pancreatic DNase I; micrococcal nuclease; yeast HO endonuclease; see also Linn et al. (eds) Nucleases, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press,l993). One or more of these s (or functional fragments thereof) can be used as a source of cleavage s and cleavage half-domains.

Similarly, a cleavage omain can be derived from any nuclease or portion thereof, as set forth above, that requires dimerization for cleavage activity. In general, two fusion proteins are required for ge if the fusion proteins se cleavage half-domains. atively, a single protein comprising two cleavage half— domains can be used. The two cleavage half-domains can be derived from the same endonuclease (or functional fragments thereof), or each cleavage half—domain can be derived from a different endonuclease (or functional fragments thereoD. In addition, the target sites for the two fusion proteins are preferably disposed, with respect to each other, such that binding of the two fusion proteins to their respective target sites places the cleavage half—domains in a spatial orientation to each other that allows the cleavage half—domains to form a functional cleavage domain, 6. g. , by zing.

Thus, in certain embodiments, the near edges of the target sites are separated by 5—8 nucleotides or by 15-18 nucleotides. However any integral {Why are we always using the qualifiers "integral" and "integer" -— are these really necessary? They just seem ctive and their use would seem to open us up to workarounds}. number of nucleotides or nucleotide pairs can intervene between two target sites (6.g. from 2 to 50 nucleotide pairs or more). In general, the site of ge lies between the target sites.

Restriction endonucleases (restriction enzymes) are present in many species and are capable of sequence-specific binding to DNA (at a recognition site), and cleaving DNA at or near the site of binding. Certain restriction enzymes (e.g, Type 118) cleave DNA at sites removed from the recognition site and have separable binding and cleavage domains. For example, the Type 118 enzyme FokI catalyzes double—stranded cleavage of DNA, at 9 nucleotides from its recognition site on one strand and 13 nucleotides from its recognition site on the other. See, for example, US Patents 802; 5,436,150 and 5,487,994; as well as Li et al. (1992) Proc. Natl.

Acad. Sci. USA 89:4275-4279; Li et al. (1993) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 90:2764— » 2768; Kim et al. (1994a) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA -887; Kim et al. (1994b) J Biol. Chem. 269:31,978-3 1,982. Thus, in one embodiment, fusion proteins comprise the cleavage domain (or ge half-domain) from at least one Type 11$ restriction enzyme and one or more zinc finger binding domains, which may or may not be engineered.

An exemplary Type 118 restriction enzyme, whose cleavage domain is separable from the g , is Fok I. This particular enzyme is active as a dimer. Bitinaite et al. (1998) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 95: 10,570-10,575.

Accordingly, for the purposes of the present disclosure, the portion of the Fokl enzyme used in the disclosed fusion proteins is ered a cleavage half-domain.

Thus, for targeted —stranded cleavage and/or targeted replacement of cellular sequences using zinc finger—Fokl fiJsions, two fusion ns, each sing a Fokl cleavage half—domain, can be used to reconstitute a catalytically active cleavage domain. Alternatively, a single polypeptide molecule ning a DNA binding domain and two Fokl cleavage half—domains can also be used.

A cleavage domain or cleavage half—domain can be any portion of a protein that retains cleavage ty, or that retains the ability to multimerize (e. g., dimerize) to form a functional cleavage domain.

Exemplary Type 118 restriction enzymes are described in ational Publication WO 07/014275, incorporated herein in its entirety. Additional restriction enzymes also contain ble binding and cleavage domains, and these are contemplated by the present disclosure. See, for example, Roberts et a1. (2003) Nucleic Acids Res. 31:418—420.

In certain embodiments, the cleavage domain comprises one or more engineered cleavage half—domain (also referred to as dimerization domain mutants) that minimize or prevent homodimerization, as described, for e, in US. Patent Publication Nos. 20050064474; 20060188987; 20080131962 and 20110201055, the disclosures of all of which are incorporated by reference in their entireties herein.

Amino acid residues at positions 446, 447, 479, 483, 484, 486, 487, 490, 491, 496, 498, 499, 500, 531, 534, 537, and 538 ofFok l are all targets for influencing dimerization of the Fok I cleavage omains.

Exemplary engineered cleavage half-domains ofF0k 1 that form te heterodimers include a pair in which a first cleavage half—domain includes mutations at amino acid residues at positions 490 and 538 ofFokl and a second cleavage half-domain includes mutations at amino acid residues 486 and 499. 2012/056539 Thus, in one embodiment, a on at 490 replaces Glu (E) with Lys (K); the mutation at 538 replaces ISO (1) with Lys (K); the mutation at 486 replaced Gln (Q) with Glu (E); and the mutation at position 499 replaces ISO (1) with Lys (K).

Specifically, the ered cleavage half—domains bed herein were prepared by mutating ons 490 (E—eK) and 538 (I—>K) in one cleavage half-domain to produce an engineered cleavage half-domain designated “E490K21538K” and by mutating positions 486 (Q——>E) and 499 (I—>L) in another cleavage half—domain to e an engineered cleavage half—domain designated “Q486E:I499L”. The engineered cleavage half-domains described herein are obligate heterodimer s in which aberrant cleavage is zed or abolished. See, 6. g, US. Patent Publication No. 2008/013 1962, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes.

In certain embodiments, the engineered cleavage omain comprises mutations at positions 486, 499 and 496 (numbered relative to wild—type Fold), for ce mutations that replace the wild type Gln (Q) residue at position 486 with a Glu (E) residue, the wild type ISO (1) residue at position 499 with a Leu (L) residue and the wild—type Asn (N) residue at position 496 with an Asp (D) or Glu (E) residue (also ed to as a “ELD” and “ELE” domains, respectively). In other embodiments, the engineered cleavage halfedomain comprises mutations at positions 490, 538 and 537 (numbered relative to wild—type Fold), for instance mutations that replace the wild type Glu (E) residue at position 490 with a Lys (K) residue, the wild type 130 (I) residue at position 538 with a Lys (K) residue, and the wild-type His (H) residue at position 537 with a Lys (K) residue or a Arg (R) e (also referred to as “KKK” and “KR” s, tively). In other embodiments, the engineered cleavage half—domain comprises mutations at positions 490 and 537 (numbered relative to wild—type Fold), for instance mutations that replace the wild type Glu (E) residue at position 490 with a Lys (K) residue and the wild—type His (H) residue at position 537 with a Lys (K) residue or a Arg (R) residue (also referred to as “KIK” and “KIR” domains, respectively). (See US Patent Publication No. 20110201055).

Engineered cleavage half—domains described herein can be prepared using any le method, for example, by site—directed mutagenesis of wild—type cleavage half- domains (F0k 1) as described in US. Patent Publication Nos. 20050064474; 20080131962 and 20110201055.

Alternatively, nucleases may be led in viva at the nucleic acid target site using so-called “split—enzyme” technology (see e. g. US. Patent Publication No. 20090068164). Components of such split enzymes may be expressed either on separate expression constructs, or can be linked in one open reading frame Where the individual components are separated, for example, by a self-cleaving 2A peptide or IRES sequence. Components may be individual zinc finger binding domains or domains of a meganuclease nucleic acid binding domain.

Nucleases can be screened for ty prior to use, for example in a yeast-based chromosomal system as described in and 68164. Nuclease expression constructs can be readily designed using methods known in the art. See, e. g., United States Patent Publications 20030232410; 20050208489; 20050026157; 20050064474; 20060188987; 20060063231; and International Publication WO 07/014275. Expression of the nuclease may be under the control of a constitutive promoter or an inducible promoter, for example the galactokinase promoter which is activated (de—repressed) in the presence of raffinose and/or galactose and repressed in presence of e.

Target Sites As described in detail above, DNA domains can be engineered to bind to any sequence of choice in a locus, for example an albumin or safe—harbor gene. An engineered DNA—binding domain can have a novel g specificity, compared to a naturally-occurring DNA-binding domain. Engineering methods include, but are not d to, rational design and various types of selection. Rational design es, for example, using databases comprising triplet (or plet) nucleotide ces ‘25 and individual (e. g., zinc finger) amino acid sequences, in which each triplet or quadruplet nucleotide sequence is associated with] one or more amino acid ces ofDNA binding domain which bind the particular triplet or quadruplet sequence.

See, for example, co—owned US. s 6,453,242 and 6,534,261, incorporated by reference herein in their entireties. Rational design of TAL-effector domains can also be performed. See, e.g., US. Patent ation No. 20110301073.

Exemplary selection methods applicable to DNA-binding domains, including phage display and two—hybrid systems, are disclosed in US Patents ,789,538; 5,925,523; 988; 6,013,453; 248; 6,140,466; 6,200,759; and 2012/056539 6,242,568; as well as WO 98/37186; W0 98/53057; WO 00/27878; W0 01/88197 and GB 2,338,237.

Selection of target sites; nucleases and methods for design and construction of fission proteins (and polynucleotides encoding same) are known to those of skill in the art and described in detail in US. Patent Application Publication Nos. 20050064474 and 20060188987, incorporated by reference in their entireties herein.

In on, as sed in these and other references, DNA-binding domains (e.g, multi—fmger zinc finger proteins) may be linked together using any suitable linker sequences, including for example, linkers of 5 or more amino acids.

See, e.g., US. Patent Nos. 6,479,626; 185; and 949 for exemplary linker sequences 6 or more amino acids in length. The proteins bed herein may include any combination of suitable linkers between the individual DNA-binding domains of the protein. See, also, U.S. Publication No. 201 10301073.

Donors As noted above, insertion of an exogenous sequence (also called a “donor sequence” or “donor”), for example for correction of a mutant gene or for sed expression of a wild-type gene. It will be readily apparent that the donor sequence is typically not identical to the genomic sequence where it is placed. A donor sequence can contain a non—homologous ce flanked by two regions of homology to allow for nt HDR at the location of interest. Additionally, donor sequences can comprise a vector molecule containing sequences that are not homologous to the region of interest in ar tin. A donor molecule can contain several, discontinuous regions of homology to cellular chromatin. For example, for targeted insertion of ces not normally present in a region of interest, said sequences can be present in a donor nucleic acid molecule and flanked by regions of homology to sequence in the region of interest.

The donor polynucleotide can be DNA or RNA, single—stranded or double—stranded and can be introduced into a cell in linear or circular form. See, e. g, US. Patent Publication Nos. 20100047805 and 20110207221. If uced in linear form, the ends of the donor sequence can be protected (e.g., from exonucleolytic degradation) by methods known to those of skill in the art. For example, one or more dideoxynucleotide es are added to the 3’ terminus of a linear molecule and/or self-complementary oligonucleotides are ligated to one or both ends. See, for example, Chang et al. (1987) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 84:4959-4963; Nehls er a]. (1996) Science 272:886—889. Additional methods for protecting exogenous polynucleotides from degradation include, but are not limited to, addition of al amino group(s) and the use of modified intemucleotide linkages such as, for example, phosphorothioates, phosphoramidates, and O-methyl ribose or deoxyribose residues.

A polynucleotide can be introduced into a cell as part of a vector molecule having additional sequences such as, for example, replication origins, promoters and genes encoding antibiotic resistance. er, donor polynucleotides can be introduced as naked nucleic acid, as nucleic acid complexed with an agent such as a me or poloxamer, or can be delivered by viruses (e. g. , adenovirus, AAV, herpesvirus, retrovirus, lentivirus and integrase defective irus (IDLV)).

The donor is lly inserted so that its expression is driven by the endogenous promoter at the integration site, namely the promoter that drives expression ofthe albumin gene. However, it will be apparent that the donor may se a promoter and/or enhancer, for example a constitutive promoter or an ble or tissue specific promoter.

The donor molecule may be inserted into an endogenous gene such that all, some or none of the nous gene is expressed. For example, a transgene as described herein may be inserted into an albumin locus such that some or none of the endogenous albumin sequences are expressed, for example as a fusion with the transgene. In other embodiments, the transgene (e. g., with or without albumin encoding ces) is integrated into any endogenous locus, for example a safe— harbor locus. See, e.g., US patent publications 20080299580; 20080159996 and 201000218264.

When n sequences (endogenous or part ofthe transgene) are expressed with the transgene, the n sequences may be full-length sequences (wild-type or mutant) or partial sequences. Preferably the n sequences are functional. Non-limiting examples of the function of these full length or partial albumin sequences include increasing the serum half-life of the polypeptide expressed by the transgene (e.g, eutic gene) and/or acting as a carrier. rmore, although not required for expression, exogenous sequences may also include transcriptional or translational regulatory sequences, for example, promoters, enhancers, insulators, internal ribosome entry sites, sequences encoding 2A peptides and/or polyadenylation signals.

The nucleases, polynucleotides encoding these nucleases, donor polynucleotides and compositions comprising the proteins and/or polynucleotides described herein may be delivered in vivo or ex vivo by any le means.

[0151] Methods of delivering nucleases as described herein are described, for example, in US. Patent Nos. 6,453,242; 6,503,717; 6,534,261; 6,599,692; 6,607,882; 6,689,558; 6,824,978; 6,933,113; 6,979,539; 7,013,219; and 7,163,824, the disclosures of all of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entireties.

Nucleases and/or donor constructs as bed herein may also be delivered using vectors containing sequences encoding one or more ofthe zinc finger or TALEN protein(s). Any vector systems may be used including, but not limited to, plasmid s, retroviral vectors, lentiviral vectors, adenovirus vectors, us s; virus vectors and adeno-associated Virus vectors, etc. See, also, US.

Patent Nos. 6,534,261; 6,607,882; 6,824,978; 6,933,113; 6,979,539; 7,013,219; and 7,163,824, incorporated by reference herein in their entireties. Furthermore, it will be apparent that any of these vectors may comprise one or more of the sequences needed for treatment. Thus, when one or more nucleases and a donor construct are introduced into the cell, the nucleases and/or donor polynucleotide may be carried on the same vector or on different vectors. When multiple vectors are used, each vector may comprise a sequence encoding one or multiple nucleases and/or donor constructs.

Conventional viral and non-viral based gene transfer methods can be used to introduce c acids ng nucleases and donor constructs in cells (e.g. ian cells) and target tissues. Non-viral vector delivery systems include DNA plasmids, naked nucleic acid, and c acid complexed with a delivery vehicle such as a liposome or poloxamer. Viral vector delivery systems include DNA and RNA viruses, which have either episomal or integrated genomes after delivery to the cell.

For a review of gene therapy procedures, see on, Science 256:808—813 (1992); Nabel & Felgner, TIBTECH -217 (1993); Mitani & Caskey, TIBTECH 11:162— 166 (1993); Dillon, TIBTECH11:167-175 (1993); Miller, Nature 357:455—460 (1992); Van Brunt, Biotechnology 6(10):1149-1154 (1988); Vigne, ative Neurology and Neuroscience 8:35—36 (1995); Kremer & Perricaudet, British Medical Bulletin 51(1):31—44 (1995); Haddada et al., in Current Topics in Microbiology and Immunology Doerfler and Bohm (eds) (1995); and Yu et al., Gene y 1:13—26 (1994). s of non—viral delivery of nucleic acids include electroporation, lipofection, microinjection, biolistics, mes, mes, immunoliposomes, polycation or lipidznucleic acid conjugates, naked DNA, artificial virions, and agent- enhanced uptake of DNA. Sonoporation using, e. g. , the Sonitron 2000 system (Rich- Mar) can also be used for ry of nucleic acids.

Additional exemplary nucleic acid delivery systems include those provided by Amaxa tems (Cologne, y), Maxcyte, Inc. (Rockville, Maryland), BTX Molecular ry Systems (Holliston, MA) and Copernicus Therapeutics Inc, (see for example US6008336). Lipofection is described in e.g., US.

Patent Nos. 5,049,386; 4,946,787; and 4,897,355) and lipofection reagents are sold commercially (e.g., TransfectamTM and LipofectinTM). Cationic and neutral lipids that are suitable for efficient receptor-recognition lipofection of polynucleotides e those of Felgner, W0 91/17424, W0 24.

[0156] The preparation of nucleic acid complexes, including targeted liposomes such as immunolipid complexes, is well known to one of skill in the art (see, 6. g. Science 270:404—410 (1995); Blaese et al., Cancer Gene Ther.

, Crystal, 2:291—297 (1995); Behr et al., Bioconjugate Chem. 5:3 82—3 89 (1994); Remy et al., Bioconjugate Chem. 5 2647—654 (1994); Gao et al., Gene Therapy 2:710-722 (1995); Ahmad et al., Cancer Res. 52:4817—4820 (1992); US. Pat. Nos. 4,186,183, 4,217,344, 871, 4,261,975, 4,485,054, 4,501,728, 4,774,085, 4,837,028, and 4,946,787).

Additional methods of delivery include the use of packaging the nucleic acids to be delivered into EnGeneIC delivery vehicles (EDVs). These EDVs are specifically delivered to target tissues using bispecific antibodies Where one arm ofthe antibody has specificity for the target tissue and the other has city for the EDV. The antibody brings the EDVs to the target cell surface and then the EDV is brought into the cell by endocytosis. Once in the cell, the ts are released (see MacDiarmid et al (2009) Nature Biotechnology 27(7):643).

The use ofRNA or DNA viral based systems for the delivery of nucleic acids encoding engineered ZFPs take age of highly evolved processes for targeting a virus to specific cells in the body and trafficking the viral payload to the nucleus. Viral vectors can be administered directly to patients (in vivo) or they can be used to treat cells in vitro and the d cells are administered to patients (ex vivo). Conventional viral based systems for the delivery of ZFPs include, but are not limited to, retroviral, lentivirus, iral, adeno—associated, ia and herpes simplex virus s for gene er. Integration in the host genome is possible with the retrovirus, lentivirus, and adeno—associated virus gene transfer s, often resulting in long term sion of the inserted transgene. Additionally, high transduction efficiencies have been observed in many different cell types and target tissues.

The tropism of a retrovirus can be altered by incorporating foreign envelope proteins, expanding the potential target population of target cells. Lentiviral vectors are retroviral vectors that are able to transduce or infect non-dividing cells and typically produce high viral titers. Selection of a retroviral gene transfer system depends on the target tissue. Retroviral vectors are comprised of cis-acting long terminal repeats with packaging capacity for up to 6—10 kb of foreign sequence. The minimum cis—acting LTRs are sufficient for ation and packaging of the vectors, which are then used to integrate the therapeutic gene into the target cell to provide ent transgene expression. Widely used retroviral vectors include those based upon murine leukemia virus (MuLV), gibbon ape leukemia virus (GaLV), Simian Immunodeficiency virus (SIV), human deficiency virus (HIV), and combinations thereof (see, e.g, Buchscher et al, J. Viral. 66:2731—2739 (1992); Johann er al., J Viral. 66:1635—1640 (1992); Sommerfelt et 61]., Viral. 176258-59 (1990); Wilson et al., J. Viral. 63:2374-2378 (1989); Miller et al., J Virol. 65 :2220- 2224 (1991); 94/05700).

In applications in which transient sion is preferred, adenoviral based systems can be used. Adenoviral based vectors are capable of very high transduction efficiency in many cell types and do not require cell division. With such vectors, high titer and high levels of expression have been obtained. This vector can be produced in large quantities in a relatively simple system. Adeno—associated virus (“AAV”) vectors are also used to transduce cells with target nucleic acids, e.g., in the in vitro production of nucleic acids and peptides, and for in Vivo and ex Vivo gene therapy procedures (see, e. g, West et al., Virology 160:3 8—47 (1987); US. Patent No. 4,797,368; WO 93/24641; Kotin, Human Gene y 5:793-801 (1994); Muzyczka, .1 Clin. Invest. 94:1351 (1994). Construction of recombinant AAV vectors is described in a number of publications, ing US. Pat. No. 5,173,414; Tratschin et al., Mol. Cell. Biol. 5 :325 1-3260 (1985); Tratschin, et al., Mol. Cell. Biol. 42072-2081 (1984); Hermonat & Muzyczka, PNAS 81 :6466—6470 ; and Samulski erlal., J. Viral. 22-3 828 (1989).

At least six viral vector approaches are currently available for gene transfer in clinical trials, which utilize approaches that involve complementation of defective vectors by genes inserted into helper cell lines to generate the transducing agent. pLASN and MFG—S are examples of retroviral vectors that have been used in al trials (Dunbar et al., Blood 85:3048—305 (1995); Kohn et al., Nat.

Med. 1:1017—102(1995); Malech et al., PNAS 94:22 12133-12138 ).

PA317/pLASN was the first therapeutic vector used in a gene therapy trial. (Blaese et al., Science 270:475-480 ). Transduction efficiencies of 50% or r have been observed for MFG—S packaged vectors. (Ellem et al., Immunol Immunother. 44(1):10—20 (1997); Dranoff er al., Hum. Gene Ther. 1:111—2 (1997).

[0163] Recombinant adeno-associated Virus vectors (rAAV) are a promising alternative gene delivery systems based on the defective and nonpathogenic parvovirus adeno-associated type 2 Virus. All vectors are derived from a plasmid that retains only the AAV 145 bp inverted terminal repeats flanking the transgene expression cassette. nt gene transfer and stable ene delivery due to integration into the genomes of the transduced cell are key features for this vector system. (Wagner et al., Lancet 351291 17 1702-3 (1998), Kearns er al., Gene Ther. 9:748—55 (1996)). Other AAV serotypes, including AAVl, AAV3, AAV4, AAV5, AAV6, AAV8, AAV 8.2, AAV9, AAV rth and typed AAV such as AAV2/8, AAV2/5 and AAV2/6 can also be used in accordance with the present ion.

[0164] Replication—deficient recombinant adenoviral vectors (Ad) can be produced at high titer and readily infect a number of different cell types. Most adenovirus vectors are engineered such that a transgene replaces the Ad Ela, Elb, and/or E3 genes; subsequently the ation ive vector is propagated in human 293 cells that supply deleted gene function in trans. Ad vectors can transduce multiple types of tissues in viva, including non—dividing, differentiated cells such as those found in liver, kidney and muscle. Conventional Ad vectors have a large carrying capacity. An example of the use of an Ad vector in a clinical trial involved polynucleotide therapy for anti-tumor immunization with uscular injection (Sterman et al., Hum. Gene Ther. 7:1083-9 (1998)). Additional examples ofthe use of irus s for gene transfer in clinical trials include Rosenecker et al., Infection 24:1 5—10 (1996); Sterman et al., Hum. Gene Ther. 9:7 1083—1089 (1998); Welsh et (1]., Hum. Gene Ther. 18 (1995); Alvarez er al, Hum. Gene Ther. 5:597-613 (1997); Topf et 611., Gene Ther. 5:507—513 (1998); Sterman et (1]., Hum.

Gene Ther. 7:1083-1089 (1998).

Packaging cells are used to form virus particles that are capable of infecting a host cell. Such cells include 293 cells, which package adenovirus, and ry2 cells or PA317 cells, which package retrovirus. Viral s used in gene therapy are usually generated by a producer cell line that packages a c acid vector into a viral le. The vectors typically contain the minimal viral sequences required for ing and subsequent integration into a host (if applicable), other viral sequences being replaced by an sion cassette encoding the protein to be expressed. The missing viral functions are supplied in trans by the packaging cell line. For example, AAV vectors used in gene therapy typically only possess inverted al repeat (ITR) sequences from the AAV genome which are required for packaging and integration into the host genome. Viral DNA is packaged in a cell line, which contains a helper plasmid ng the other AAV genes, namely rep and cap, but lacking ITR sequences. The cell line is also infected with adenovirus as a helper. The helper virus es replication of the AAV vector and expression ofAAV genes from the helper plasmid. The helper plasmid is not packaged in significant amounts due to a lack of ITR sequences. Contamination with adenovirus can be reduced by, e. g., heat treatment to which adenovirus is more sensitive than AAV.

In many gene therapy applications, it is desirable that the gene y vector be delivered with a high degree of specificity to a particular tissue type.

Accordingly, a viral vector can be modified to have specificity for a given cell type by expressing a ligand as a fusion protein with a viral coat protein on the outer surface of the Virus. The ligand is chosen to have affinity for a receptor known to be present on the cell type of interest. For example, Han et al, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 7- 9751 (1995), reported that Moloney murine leukemia Virus can be modified to express human heregulin fused to gp70, and the recombinant virus infects n human breast cancer cells sing human epidermal growth factor receptor. This principle can be extended to other target cell pairs, in which the target cell expresses a receptor and the virus expresses a fusion protein comprising a ligand for the cell— surface receptor. For example, filamentous phage can be engineered to display antibody fragments (e. g., FAB or Fv) having specific binding affinity for virtually any chosen cellular receptor. Although the above ption applies primarily to viral vectors, the same principles can be applied to nonviral vectors. Such vectors can be engineered to contain specific uptake ces which favor uptake by specific target cells.

Gene therapy vectors can be delivered in vivo by administration to an individual t, typically by systemic administration (e. g., intravenous, eritoneal, intramuscular, subderrnal, or intracranial infiision) or topical application, as described below. Alternatively, vectors can be delivered to cells ex vivo, such as cells explanted from an individual patient (e.g., lymphocytes, bone marrow aspirates, tissue biopsy) or universal donor hematopoietic stem cells, followed by reimplantation ofthe cells into a patient, usually after selection for cells '20 which have incorporated the vector.

Vectors (e.g, retroviruses, adenoviruses, liposomes, etc.) containing nucleases and/or donor constructs can also be administered directly to an organism for uction of cells in vivo. Alternatively, naked DNA can be administered.

Administration is by any of the routes ly used for introducing a molecule into te contact with blood or tissue cells ing, but not limited to, injection, infusion, topical application and electroporation. Suitable methods of stering such nucleic acids are available and well known to those of skill in the art, and, although more than one route can be used to administer a particular composition, a particular route can often provide a more immediate and more effective reaction than r route.

Vectors suitable for introduction of polynucleotides described herein include non-integrating lentivirus vectors (IDLV). See, for example, Ory et al. (1996) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 93:11382-11388; Dull et a1. (1998) J. Viral. 72:8463- 8471; Zuffery ez‘ al. (1998) J Viral. 72:9873-9880; zi et a1. (2000) Nature Genetics 25:217—222; US. Patent Publication No 2009/054985.

Pharrnaceutically acceptable carriers are determined in part by the particular composition being stered, as well as by the particular method used to ster the composition. Accordingly, there is a wide variety of suitable formulations of pharmaceutical compositions available, as described below (see, e. g, Remington ’S Pharmaceutical Sciences, 17th ed., 1989).

It will be apparent that the nuclease—encoding sequences and donor constructs can be red using the same or different s. For example, a donor polynucleotide can be carried by a plasmid, while the one or more nucleases can be carried by a AAV vector. rmore, the different vectors can be administered by the same or different routes (intramuscular injection, tail vein injection, other intravenous injection, intraperitoneal administration and/or intramuscular injection.

The vectors can be delivered simultaneously or in any sequential order.

[0172] Formulations for both ex vivo and in viva administrations include sions in liquid or emulsified s. The active ingredients often are mixed with excipients which are pharmaceutically acceptable and compatible with the active ingredient. Suitable excipients include, for example, water, saline, dextrose, glycerol, l or the like, and combinations f. In addition, the composition may contain minor amounts of auxiliary substances, such as, wetting or emulsifying agents, pH buffering agents, stabilizing agents or other reagents that enhance the effectiveness of the pharmaceutical composition.

Applications

[0173] The methods and compositions ofthe invention can be used in any stance wherein it is desired to supply a transgene encoding one or more ns such that the protein(s) is(are) secreted from the targeted cell. Thus, this technology is of use in a condition where a patient is deficient in some protein due to problems (e. g., problems in expression level or ms with the protein expressed as sub- or non-functioning). Particularly useful with this invention is the expression of transgenes to correct or restore functionality in clotting disorders. Additionally, AlAT—deficiency ers such as COPD or liver damage, or other disorders, conditions or diseases that can be mitigated by the supply of exogenous proteins by a secretory organ may be successfully treated by the methods and compositions of this invention. Lysosomal storage diseases can be treated by the methods and itions of the invention, as are metabolic es such as es.

Proteins that are useful therapeutically and that are typically delivered by injection or infusion are also useful with the methods and compositions of the invention. By way of non—limiting examples, production of a C-peptide (e.g.

ErsattaTM by Cebix) or insulin for use in diabetic y. A further ation includes treatment of Epidermolysis Bullosa via tion of collagen VII.

Expression of IGF—1 in secretory tissue as described herein can be used to increase levels of this protein in patients with liver cirrhosis and otein lipase deficiency by expression of lipoprotein lipase. Antibodies may also be secreted for therapeutic benefit, for example, for the treatment of cancers, autoimmune and other diseases.

Other proteins related to ng could be produced in secretory tissue, include fibrinogen, prothrombin, tissue factor, Factor V, Factor XI, Factor XII (Hageman factor), Factor XIII (fibrin-stabilizing factor), von rand factor, prekallikrein, high molecular weight kininogen (Fitzgerald factor), ctin, rombin III, heparin cofactor 11, protein C, protein S, n Z, protein Z-related protease inhibitor, plasminogen, alpha 2-antiplasmin, tissue plasminogen activator, urokinase, plasminogen activator inhibitor—1, and plasminogen activator inhibitor—2.

[0175] The following Examples relate to exemplary embodiments of the present sure in which the nuclease comprises a zinc finger nuclease (ZFN) or TALEN. It will be appreciated that this is for purposes of exemplification only and that other nucleases can be used, for instance homing endonucleases (meganucleases) with engineered DNA-binding domains and/or fusions of naturally occurring of engineered homing endonucleases (meganucleases) DNA-binding domains and heterologous cleavage domains.

EXAMPLES Example 1: Design, construction and characterization of zinc finger n nucleases (ZFN) targeted to the mouse albumin gene Zinc finger proteins were designed to target cleavage sites within introns 1, 12 and 13 of the mouse albumin gene. Corresponding expression constructs were assembled and incorporated into plasmids, AAV or adenoviral vectors essentially as described in Umov et al. (2005) Nature 435(7042):646-651, Perez et al (2008) Nature Biotechnology 26(7):808—8l6, and as described in US.

Patent No. 6,534,261. Table 1 shows the recognition helices within the DNA g domain of exemplary mouse albumin specific ZFPs while Table 2 shows the target sites for these ZFPs. Nucleotides in the target site that are contacted by the ZFP recognition helices are indicated in uppercase s; non-contacted nucleotides indicated in lowercase.

Table l: Murine n-specific zinc finger nucleases helix designs Target QSATRTK 1 (SEQ ID 30724 0:3) Intron 30725 Intron 30732 Intron 30733 Intron 30759 Intron 30761 Intron 30760 Intron 30767 Intron 30768 Intron 30769 WRSSLVA (SEQ ID NO: 37) (SEQ'ID NO:26) Intron RSDNLSV SYWSR“V QSSDLSR Table 2: Target sites of murine albumin—specific ZFNs Target SBS # Target site Intron 1 ctGAAGGTgGCAATGGTchtctctgct_ (sio __D NO:55) Intron 1 ttTCCTGTAACGATCGGgaactggcatc_ (sag "D NO:56) Intron 1 aaGATGCCaGTTCCCGATcgttacagga_ (8.39 __D NO:57) Intron 1 agGGAGTAGCTTAGGTCagtgaagagaa_(S'QQ "D \IO:58) Intron 13 acGTAGAGAACAACATCTAGa-:tggtgg_ (sag "D NO:59) Intron 13 ctGTAATAGAAACTGAC:tacgtagctt_(SEQ ::D \Oz60) Intron 13 acG’TAGAGAACAACatc*:aga':tggtgg_(S’QQ "D \o:59) Intron 13 agGGAATGtGAAATGATC“CAGatatataw(SLQ __D NO:61) <34 z > Intron 13 ccArEGCCtAACAACaGTTtatc::c::_(smo “D 0:62) Intron 12 C’:TGGCTGTGTAGGAGGGGAgtagcagt_(SLQ __D I\O:63) Intron 12 AGTTGGCAGTGGCAtgc:taat_(swig “D \Oz64) Intron 12 C’:”TGGCT"TGAGGATTAAGcatgccaq(SEQ "D \o:65) Intron 12 ac"TGGCTcCAAGATTTATAGcc--aaa_(S;Q __D \Oz66) Intron 12 caGGAAAGr‘AAGATAGGAAGgaa':gtga_(SEQ ::D \Oz67) Intron 12 30883 ctGGGGTAAATGTCTCCttgctct‘:ctt_(SEQ :13 \Oz68) Example 2: Activity of murine albumin-specific ZFNs The ZFNs in Table l were tested for the ability to cleave their endogenous target sequences in mouse cells. To accomplish this, constructs sing the ZFNS in Table 1 were transfected into NeuroZA cells in the pairings ted in Figure 1. Cells were then maintained at 37°C for 3 days or subjected to a hypothermic shock (30°C, see co-owned US Patent ation No. 20110041195).

Genomic DNA was then isolated from A cells using the DNeasy kit (Qiagen) and subjected to the Cel—l assay (SurveyorTM, Transgenomics) as described in Perez et al, (2008) Nat. Biotechnol. 26: 808—816 and Guschin et al, (2010) Methods M0] Biol. 649:247-56), in order to quantify chromosomal modifications induced by ZFN— cleavage. In this assay, PCR is used to amplify a DNA fragment bearing the ZFN target site, and then the resultant amplicon is digested with the mismatch-specific nuclease Cel-I (Yang et al, (2000) Biochemistry 39, 3533-3 541), followed by resolution of intact and cleaved amplicon on an agarose gel. By quantifying the degree of amplicon cleavage, one may calculate the on of mutated alleles in amplicon and therefore in the original ar pool. In these experiments, all ZFN pairs were R Fokl mutation pairs ibed .

Results from the Cel-I assay are shown in Figure l, and demonstrate that the ZFNs are capable of inducing cleavage and consequent mutations at their respective target sites. The "percent indel" value shown beneath each lane indicates the fraction of ZFN targets that were successfully cleaved and subsequently mutated during cellular repair of the double stranded break via NHEJ. The data also demonstrate increased activity when the transduction procedure incorporates the hypothermic shock.

Example 3: Canine albumin—specific ZFNs A pair of ZFNs targeting the canine albumin locus was ucted for use in in vivo models. The pair was ucted as described in Example 1, and is shown below in Table 3. The target for each ZFN is provided in Table 4.

Table 3: Canine albumin-specific zinc finger nucleases helix designs _—_——— QRSNLDS QSSDLSR YHMHTKK RSDDLSV K 33115 (SEQ ID (SEQ ID (SEQ ID (SEQ ID (SEQ ID NO:83) NO:84) NO:85) NO:86) Table 4: Target sites of canine albumin-specific ZFNs Target site 3 3 1 1 5 agTATI'CGTI‘I'GCTcCAAaatatttgcc ( s*~. aaGTCATGTGGAGAGAAacacaaagagt (SEQ ID NO:91) The canine specific ZFNs were tested in vitro for activity ially as described in example 2, except that the canine cell line D17 was used. As shown in Figure 2, the ZFNs were shown to generate ~30% indels in this study.

Example 4: Non-human primate albumin specific ZFNS ZFNs targeting the albumin locus in rhesus e monkeys (Macaca mulatta) were also made. The pairs were constructed as described above and are shown below in Table 5. The targets for the ZFNs are shown in Table 6. As shown below, the human (SEQ ID NO:92) and rhesus macaque (SEQ ID NO:93) sequences for the binding site for SBS# 35396 (see below, Table 7 and 8) are perfectly conserved. The differences between the human and rhesus sequences are boxed.

HUMAN LEADS 353 64 35396 HUMAN TTCA TAACECCC GACCTAT CCATTGCACT ATGCTTTATT TAAAAACCAC RHESUS ATTGAATTCA TAAC CCC GACCTAT CCATTGCACT ATGCTTTATT TAAAAGCCAC G (NOTE: G IN SOME INSTANCES) Thus, for the development of the rhesus albumin specific pair, 35396 was paired with a series of partners which were designed to replace the human 35364 partner in rhesus. These proteins are shown below (Table 5) along with their target ces (Table 6).

Table 5: Rhesus albumin-specific zinc finger nucleases helix designs QSGRLA 3:363 36813 MO 5 IIIIIIINQSGRLAR36808 836 :D QRS LVR 36820 NOSEQ : QNRSRLvR:99 (NOSEQH LMQNRNQ ' 3 DRS (SEQ ID 3 I: (SEQ ID l ] l NO:5) i NO:97) ] NO:95) [ NO:8) NO:35) :AGGGACAGT" r1 ~ » :30 ID NO:101) :AGGGACAGT“ ‘ , :30 ID NO:lOl) ttAGGGACAGr‘TAr , .« _-D ) Intron l ttAGGGACAGTTAr ’ ZEQ ID NO:lOl) The rhesus albumin specific ZFNs were tested in_pairs to determine the pair with the greatest activity. In each pair, SBS#3 5396 was tested with the potential partners shown in Tables 5 and 6 in the rhesus cell line RF/6A using the methods described above.

The resultant activity, as determined by percent of mismatch ed using the Cel-I assay is shown in the body of the matrix (Table 7), and demonstrate that the ZFNs pairs have activity against the rhesus albumin locus.

Table 7: Activigj at the rhesus macague albumin locus 36813 I 36808 | 36820 36819 | 36806 35396 21% I 26% | 23% 30% | 20.5%

[0185] Two pairs were examined more extensively, comparing sequence specificity by SELEX analysis and by a titration of each pair for activity in vitro. The results demonstrate that the 35396/36806 pair was the most desirable lead pair (see Figure 12).

Comparison of the sequence of the human albumin locus with the sequences of other non-human primates demonstrates that similar pairs may be developed for work in other primates such as cynologous s (see, Figure 3A and 3B).

Example 5: In vivo cleavage by ZFNs in mice

[0187] To r the albumin—specific ZFNs to the liver in vivo, the normal site of n production, we generated a hepatotropic adeno-associated virus vector, serotype 8 expressing the albumin-specific ZFNs from a liver-specific enhancer and promoter (Shen et a], ibid and Miao et al, ibid). Adult C57BL/6 mice were subjected to genome editing at the albumin gene as follows: adult mice were treated by i.v. venous) injection with 1 X 1011 V.g. (viral genomes)/mousc of either ZFN pair 1 (SBS 30724 and SBS , or ZFN pair 2 (SBS 30872 and SBS 30873) and sacrificed seven days later. The region of the albumin gene encompassing the target site for pair 1 was amplified by PCR for the Cel-I mismatch assay using the following 2 PCR s: Cell Fl: 5 ’ CCTGCTCGACCATGCTATACT 3’ (SEQ ID N0269) CellRl: 5’ CAGGCCTTTGAAATGTTGTTC 3’ (SEQ ID NO:70) The region of the albumin gene encompassing the target site for pair 2 was amplified by PCR for the Cel—I assay using these PCR primers: mAlb set4F4: 5’ AAGTGCAAAGCCTTTCAGGA 3’ (SEQ ID NO:71) mAlb set4R4: 5’ GTGTCCTTGTCAGCAGCCTT 3’ (SEQ ID NO:72) As shown in Figure 4, the ZFNs induce indels in up to 17% of their target sites in vivo in this study.

The mouse albumin specific ZFNs SBS30724 and SBS30725 which target a sequence in intron 1 were also tested in a second study. Genes for expressing the ZFNS were uced into an AAV2/8 vector as bed previously (Li et al (2011) Nature 475 (7355): 217). To facilitate AAV production in the baculovirus , a baculovirus containing a chimeric serotype 8.2 capsid gene was used.

Serotype 8.2 capsid differs from pe 8 capsid in that the phopholipase A2 domain in capsid protein VPI ofAAV8 has been replaced by the comparable domain from the AAV2 capsid creating a chimeric capsid. Production of the ZFN containing virus particles was done either by preparation using a HEK293 system or a baculovirus system using standard methods in the art (See Li et al, ibid, see 6. g.

US6723551). The virus particles were then administered to normal male mice (n=6) using a single dose of 200 microliter of 1.0e11 total vector genomes of either AAV2/8 or AAV2/8.2 encoding the mouse albumin-specific ZFN. 14 days post administration ofrAAV vectors, mice were sacrificed, livers harvested and processed for DNA or total proteins using standard methods known in the art. Detection ofAAV vector genome copies was performed by quantitative PCR. Briefly, qPCR s were made specific to the bGHpA sequences within the AAV as follows: Olig0200 (Forward) GCCAGCCATCTGTTGTTT—3’ (SEQ ID NO:102) Oligo201 (Reverse) 5’—GACAGTGGGAGTGGCACCTT-3’ (SEQ ID NO:103) Oligo202 (Probe) 5’—CTCCCCCGTGCCTTCCTTGACC—3’ (SEQ ID NO: 104) Cleavage activity of the ZFN was measured using a Cel-I assay performed using a LC-GX apparatus (Perkin Elmer), according to manufacturer’s protocol. Expression of the ZFNs in viva was measured using a FLAG—Tag system according to standard methods.

As shown in Figure 5 (for each mouse in the study) the ZFNs were expressed, and cleave the target in the mouse liver gene. The % indels generated in each mouse sample is provided at the bottom of each lane. The type of vector and their contents are shown above the lanes. Mismatch repair following ZFN cleavage (indicated % indels) was detected at nearly 16% in some of the mice.

The mouse c albumin ZFNs were also tested for in vivo activity when delivered Via use of a y ofAAV serotypes including AAV2/5, AAV2/6, AAV2/8 and AAV2/8.2. In these AAV vectors, all the ZFN encoding sequence is flanked by the AAV2 lTRs, contain, and then encapsulated using capsid proteins from AAV5, 6, or 8, respectively. The 8.2 designation is the same as described above. The SBS30724 and 25 ZFNs were cloned into the AAV as described previously (Li et al, ibid), and the viral les were produced either using baculovirus or a HEK293 transient transfection purification as described above. Dosing was done in normal mice in a volume of 200 uL per mouse via tail ion, at doses from 5e10 to 1e12 vg per dose. Viral genomes per diploid mouse genome were ed at days 14, and are analyzed at days 30 and 60. In addition, ZFN directed cleavage of the albumin locus was analyzed by Cel-I assay as described previously at day 14 and is ed at days 30 and 60.

[0194] As shown in Figure 6, cleavage was ed at a level of up to 21% indels. Also included in Figure are the samples from the previous study as a comparison (far right, “mini-mouse” study-D14and a background band (“unspecific band”).

Example 6: In vivo co—delivery of a donor nucleic acid and albumin ZFNs.

Insertion of human Factor IX: ZFNs were used to target integration of the gene for the clotting protein Factor IX (F.IX) into the albumin locus in adult wild— type mice. In these experiments, the mice were treated by I.V. ion with either 1 X 1011 v.g./mouse albumin—specific ZFN pair 1 targeting intron 1 + donor (“mAlb (intronl)”), 1 x 1011 v.g./mouse albumin—specific ZFN pair 2 targeting intron 12 + donor (“mAlb(intronl2)”) or a ZFN set that targets a human gene plus donor as a control (“Control”). The ZFN pair #1 was 30724/30725 intron 1, and ZFN , targeting pair 2 was 30872/3 0873, targeting exon 12. In these experiments, the F.IX donor transgene was integrated via end e following ZFN—induced cleavage.

Alternatively, the F.IX transgene was inserted into a donor vector such that the transgene was flanked by arms with homology to the site of cleavage. In either case, the F.IX transgene was the “SA — wild-type hF9 exons 2-8” cassette (see co-owned US patent application 61/392,333).

[0196] Transduced mice were then sampled for serum human F.IX levels, which were ed (see Figure 7, showing stabilized expression of human F.IX for at least eight weeks following ion into intron 1). The expressed human F.IX is also functional, as evidenced by the reduction in clotting time in hemophilic mice with a human F.IX transgene targeted into the albumin locus (see Figure 8). Notably, 2O within two weeks ing transgene insertion, the clotting time is not significantly different than clotting time in a wild type mouse. When the intron 1 c donor was inserted into the intron 12 locus, correct splicing to result in sion of the huF.lX cannot occur. The lack of signal in this sample verifies that the signal from the intron 1 donor being integrated into the intron 1 site is truly from t transgene integration, and not from random integration and expression at another non-specific site.

Insertion of human alpha osidase ( huGLa): Similar to the insertion of the human F.IX gene, the gene encoding human alpha galatosidase (deficient in ts with Fabry’s e) was inserted into the mouse albumin locus.

The ZFN pair 30724/30725 was used as described above using an alpha galactosidase transgene in place of the F.1X transgene. In this experiment, 3 mice were treated with an AAV2/8 virus containing the ZFN pair at a dose of 3.0ell viral genomes per mouse and an AAV2/8 virus containing the huGLa donor at 1.5e12 viral genomes per mouse. Control animals were given either the ZFN containing virus alone or the huGLa donor virus alone. Western blots done on liver homogenates showed an increase in alpha osidase—specific signal, indicating that the alpha galactosidase gene had been integrated and was being expressed (Figure 13A). In on, an ELISA was performed on the liver lysate using a human alpha galactosidase assay kit (Sino) according to manufacturer’s protocol. The results, shown in Figure 13B, trated an increase in signal in the mice that had been treated with both the ZFNs and the huGLa donor. e 7: Design of human albumin specific ZFNs.

To design ZFNs with specificity for the human albumin gene, the DNA sequence of human albumin intron 1 was analyzed using previously described methods to identify target sequences with the best potential for ZFN binding. Regions throughout the intron (loci 1—5) were chosen and l ZFNs were designed to target these s region (for example, see Figure 9 which shows the g sites of ZFNS from loci 1-3). In this analysis, five loci were identified to target in the albumin intronl (see Figure 3B). The target and helices are shown in Tables 8 and 9.

Table 8: Human n-specific zinc finger nucleases helix designs Design QSSDLSR LRHNLRA DQSNLRA RPYTLRL QSSDLSR HRSNLNK (SEQ ID (SEQ ID (SEQ ID (SEQ ID (SEQ ID (SEQ ID 35393 NO:46) NO:105) NO:LO6) NO:IO7) NO:46) VO:108) Intron QSSDLSR HRSNLNK DQSNLRA RPYTLRL QSSDLSR 1 (SEQ ID (SEQ ID (SEQ ID (SEQ ID (SEQ ID 35394 NO:46) No:108) 6) NO:IO7) LKWNLRT RPYTLRL Intlmn (SEQ ID (SEQ :D NO:lO9) NO:lO7) 35396 QSSDLSR LRHNLRA DQSNLRA RPYTLRL QSSDLSR (SEQ ID (SEQ ID (SEQ "D (SEQ D (SEQ ID NO:46) NO:105) NO:IO6) NO:107) NO:46) 35398 QSSDLSR HRSNLNK DQSNLRA RPYTLRL QSSDLSR (SEQ ID (SEQ ID (SEQ ID (SEQ ID (SEQ ID fl 35399 NO:46) NO:108) NO:lO6) NO:107) NO:46) W0: 08) Intron QSSDLSR RPYTLRL , (SEQ, ID_ (SEQ- ID 1 (SEQ :D NO:46) N02107) 35405 V02108) Intron QSGNLAR LMQNRNQ LKQHLNE TSGNLTR RRYYLRL N/A (SEQ ID (SEQ ID (SEQ ID (SEQ ID (SEQ ID NO:5) kO:9 N0211«) NO:11) No:112) 35361 Intron QSGNLAR TSGNLTR RRDWRRD N/A 1 (SEQ ID (SEQ ID 3 35364 NO:Ll) Intron N/A 35370 Intron 1 V NO‘113) 35379 DKSYLRP TSGNLTR HRSARKR QSSDLSR \NRSSLKT N/A IntrOn (SEQ ID (SEQ ID (SEQ ID (SEQ ID (SEQ “D NO:ll) N02115) NO:46) ) 35458 HRSARKR QSGDLTR NRHHLKS N/A Inifon (SEQ ID (SEQ ID (SEQ ID NO:115) NO:40) NO:ll6) 35480 QSGDLTR QSGNLHV QSAHRKN STAALSY TSGSLSR RSDALAR Intr n]_° (SEQ ID (SEQ ID (SEQ ID (SEQ ID (SEQ ID (SEQ ID NO:4O) NO:ll7) NO:ll8 ) NQ:119) NO:12O) No.41)- 35426 QSGDLTR QRSNLNI QSAHRKN STAALSY DRSALSR RSDALAR Intron (SEQ “D (SEQ ID (SEQ “D (SEQ ID (SEQ ID (339 ID ) NO:118) NO:119) NO:52) NO:41) 35428 Q DRSNLTR QSGNLAR QKVNRAG E/A Infifon « ”D (SEQ ID (SfiQ D (SEQ ID NO 123) NO:5) NO:124) 34931 Intron QNANRII DQSNLRA r TSGNLTR HRSARKR (SEQ ID (SEQ ID (SEQ ID (SEQ ID (SEQ ID 1 (SEQ ID NO:26) NO 125) No:106) NO:126) NQ:11) NO 33940 115) Table 9: Target sites of Human albumin-specific ZFNs Target 838 # Target Site Intron 1 35393 ccTATCCATTGCACTATGCTttatttaa (SEQ ID NO:127) (locus 2) Intron 1 35394 chATCCATTGCACTATGCTttatttaa (SEQ ID NO:127) (locus 2) Intron 1 35396 ccTA“CCATTGCACTATGC”:tatttaa (SEQ ID No:;27) (locus 2) Intron 1 35398 chAECCATTGCACTATGC“-LaI:Iaa (SEQ ID NO: 27) (locus 2) Intron 1 35399 CCTATCCATmGCACTATGCT:-a-:-aa (SEQ ID NO: 27) (locus 2) Intron 1 35405 TCCATTGCAC’ (locus 2) Intron 1 35361 :tTGGGATAGETATGAAttcaatct:ca(SEQ ID ) (locus 2) Intron 1 35364 :tTGGGATAG”TATGAAttcaatcttca(SEQ ID NO:128) (locus 2) Intron 1 35370 r1GGGATAGr‘TAr ’ F ID NO:128) Intron 1 35379 r‘GGGATAGD ’ ’ 3Q ID NO:128) Intron 1 35458 CCTGTGCTGTTGATCTCataaatagaac(SEQ ID N01129) Intron 1 35480 ccTGTGCTGTTGATctcataaatagaac (SLQ .-D NO:129) Intron 1 35426 ttGTGGTTTTTAAACAAAGCAtagtgca(SLQ "D ) Intron 1 35428 T"TTTAAA:AAAGCAtagtgca(SfiQ D NOzl30) Intron 1 34931 acCAAGAAGACAGActaaaatgaaaata (SEQ ID NO:131) Intron 1 33940 ATAGACACTAAAAGagtattag (SEQ ID N02132) (locus 4) These nucleases were tested in pairs to determine the pair with the highest activity. The resultant matrices of tested pairs are shown in Tables 10 and l 1, below where the ZFN used for the right side of the dimer is shown across the top of each matrix, and the ZFN used for the left side of the dimer is listed on the left side of each matrix. The resultant activity, as determined by percent of mismatch detected using the Cel-I assay is shown in the body of both matrices: Table 10: Activity of Human albumin-specific ZFNs (%mutated targets) (note: ‘n.d.’ means the assay on this pair was not done) Thus, highly active nucleases have been developed that ize target sequences in intron 1 of human albumin.

Example 8: Design of albumin specific TALENs TALENs were designed to target sequences within human albumin intron 1. Base recognition was ed using the canonical RVD—base correspondences (the "TALE code”: NI for A, HD for C, NN for G (NK in half repeat), NG for T). TALENs were constructed as previously described (see co—owned US. Patent Publicaiton No. 20110301073). Targets for a subset of TALENs were conserved in cynomolgus monkey and rhesus macaque albumin genes (see figure 10).

The TALENS were constructed in the “+17” and “+63” TALEN backbones as described in USZOI 73. The targets and numeric fiers for the TALENS tested are shown below in Table 12.

Table 12: Albumin specific TALENs fl # of RVDs SEQ ID NO: gtTGAAGATTGAA“"CAta 15 133 gtTGAAGATTGAAT”CA”Aac 17 133 thCAATGGATAGG”C"tt 15 134 atAGTGCAA"GGA"AGGtC 15 135 atTGAATTCATAAC"ATCC 15 136 atTGAATTCATAAcflANCCCa 17 137 atAAAGCATAGTGCAA"GGat 17 138 atAAAGCAfiAGmGCAAng 15 139 CtATGCHTmATnTAAAAaC 15 140 TnTAmTMAAAAACca 17 141 atTTA”GAGA"CAACAGCAca 17 .42 ctATfimAmGAGATCAACAGca 17 “58 ttCA"”T"AG"CTGTCTTCtt 17 .43 atT"TAGTC"GTCTTCTtg 15 44 ctAATACTCTTTTAGTGTct “6 45 atCTAA”ACTC"TTTAGTGtC 17 146 GAACATCATCCtg 15 “47 GAACA“CATCCTGag 17 .48 atATMGGGCMCTGATTCCTaC 17 149 j atA""GGGCTCTGATTCCt 15 150 ttT“”CTG"AGGAATCAga ”5 159 ttTTTCTGTAGGAATCAGag “6 151 ttAHGCATmflGTMTCAAaa 15 152 atTATGCA""TG”TTCAaa 15 153 The TALENs were then tested in pairs in HepG2 cells for the ability to induce modifications at their endogenous chromosomal targets, and the results showed that many ns bearing the +17 truncation point were active. Similarly, many TALENs bearing the +63 tion point were also active (see Table 13 and Figure 11). Note that the pair s shown in Table 13 correspond with the pair numbers shown above the lanes in Figure 11. Side by side comparisons With three sets of non—optimized albumin ZFNs showed that the TALENs and ZFNS have activities that are in the same approximate range.

Table 13: TALEN-induced target modification in HepG2-C3a cells Sample TALEN C17 %modification, TALEN C63 % Gap pair C17 modification, 1 102251 : 1 02249 15 1022511102249 0 12 2 102251:102250 0 102251:102250 0 10 3 102252:102249 0 102252: 102249 8.3 15 4 1022522102250 32 1022522102250 8.0 13 1022552102253 38 102255:102253 21 13 6 1022552102254 43 1022552102254 0 11 7 :102253 0 102256: 102253 23 15 8 102256:102254 28 1022562102254 16 13 9 102259:102257 18 102259:102257 15 13 102259:102258L 15 102259:102258 0 11 11 102260:102257 15 102260:102257 13 15 12 102260:102258 24 102260: 102258 11 13 13 1022632102261 0 1022632102261 16 17 14 102263 : 102262 0 102263: 102262 15 16 2102261 0 102264:102261 22 18 16 102264:102262 0 102264: 1 02262 17 17 102267:102265 47 :102265 9.8 13 21 102267:102266 4.7 102267:102266 0 11 22 102268:102265 4.2 102268:102265 7.9 15 23 102268:102266 10 :102266 0 13 24 1022712102269 14 1022712102269 0 12 102271:102270 0 1022712102270 0 11 26 102272:102269 0 102272:102269 0 13 27 1022722102270 0 102272:102270 0 12 ZFNs 17 3536135396 31 3536135396 29 6 18 35426235458 10 3542635458 7 6 19 3493133940 7.3 3493133940 7 6 As noted previously (see co—owned US. Patent Publication No. 20110301073), the C17 TALENS have greater ty when the gap size between the two TALEN target sites is approximately 11— 15 bp, while the C63 TALENs sustain activity at gap sizes up to 18 bp (see Figure l0, 11C and Table 13).

All patents, patent applications and publications mentioned herein are hereby incorporated by nce in their entirety.

Although disclosure has been ed in some detail by way of illustration and example for the purposes of clarity of understanding, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and ations can be practiced without departing from the spirit or scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, the foregoing descriptions and examples should not be construed as limiting.

Claims (12)

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. An isolated cell comprising (a) a non-naturally occurring nuclease that cleaves an endogenous n gene; and (b) a transgene encoding Factor VIII, Factor IX, Factor XI and/or alpha-1 antitrypsin (A1AT).

2. The isolated cell of claim 1, wherein the non-naturally occurring nuclease comprises one or more zinc finger proteins, and/or one or more TALENs.

3. The isolated cell of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the nucleases are encoded by one or more polynucleotides.

4. The isolated cell of claim 3, wherein the one or more polynucleotides are carried by one or more Adeno-associated Virus (AAV) virus particles and/or are in mRNA form.

5. The isolated cell of any of claims 1 to 4, wherein the cell is a stem cell.

6. The isolated cell of claim 5, wherein the stem cell is selected from the group consisting of an embryonic stem cell (ESC), an induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC), a hepatic stem cell and a liver stem cell.

7. The isolated cell of claim any of claims 1 to 4, wherein the cell is a liver cell.

8. A n ex vivo method of expressing a Factor VIII, Factor IX, Factor XI and/or alpha-1 antitrypsin (A1AT) protein in a cell, the method comprising: providing a cell ing to any of claims 1 to 7, wherein the ses cleave an endogenous n gene such that the transgene encoding the protein is ated into the endogenous albumin gene and the protein is expressed in the cell.

9. Use of an isolated cell comprising (a) a non-naturally occurring nuclease that cleaves an endogenous albumin gene; and (b) a transgene encoding Factor VIII, Factor IX, Factor XI and/or alpha-1 antitrypsin (A1AT) in the preparation of a medicament to produce Factor VIII, Factor IX, Factor XI and/or alpha-1 antitrypsin (A1AT) n in a subject in need thereof.

10. Use of a non-naturally occurring nuclease that cleaves an endogenous albumin gene and a transgene encoding Factor VIII, Factor IX, Factor XI and/or alpha-1 antitrypsin (A1AT) in the preparation of a medicament for a t deficient in Factor VIII, Factor IX, Factor XI and/or alpha-1 antitrypsin (A1AT).

11. The use according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the subject has hemophilia.

12. The use according to claim 9 or 10, n the subject has chronic obstructive pulmonary e (COPD) and/or a liver disorder.