COMPOSITIONS, METHODS AND USES FOR TREATING CYSTIC FIBROSIS AND RELATED DISORDERS

Abstract

Described herein are compositions, kits, and methods for potent delivery to a cell of a subject. The cell can be of a particular cell type, such as a basal cell, a ciliated cell, or a secretory cell. In some cases, the cell can be a lung cell of a particular cell type. Also described herein are pharmaceutical compositions comprising a therapeutic or prophylactic agent assembled with a lipid composition. The lipid composition can comprise an ionizable cationic lipid, a phospholipid, and a selective organ targeting lipid. Further described herein are high-potency dosage forms of a therapeutic or prophylactic agent formulated with a lipid composition.

Claims

1.-61. (canceled)

62. A method for enhancing an expression or an activity of a cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) protein in a cell, the method comprising: (a) contacting said cell with a nucleic acid editing system assembled with a lipid composition, wherein said nucleic acid editing system comprises (i) a guide nucleic acid, (ii) a heterologous polypeptide comprising an endonuclease or a heterologous polynucleotide encoding said heterologous polypeptide, and (iii) a donor template nucleic acid, wherein said contacting results in a complexing of said heterologous endonuclease with said guide nucleic acid in said cell; (b) cleaving a CFTR gene or transcript in said cell with said complex at a cleavage site to yield a cleaved CFTR gene or transcript; and (c) using said donor template nucleic acid to repair said cleaved CFTR gene or transcript to yield a repaired CFTR gene or transcript, thereby enhancing said expression or activity of CFTR protein in said cell.

63. The method of claim 62, wherein (c) is characterized by an off-target insertion or/and deletion (indel) rate of no more than about 50%, 49%, 48%, 47%, 46%, 45%, 44%, 43%, 42%, 41%, or 40%.

64. The method of claim 62, wherein (c) is characterized by an on-target repair rate of at least about 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 11%, 12%, 13%, 14%, 15%, 16%, 17%, 18%, 19%, or 20%.

65. The method of claim 62, wherein the method increases by at least about 1.1-fold an amount of a functional CFTR gene, transcript or protein in said cell relative to a cell that lacks said nucleic acid editing system assembled with said lipid composition.

66. The method of claim 62, wherein the method increases by at least about 1.1-fold an amount of a chloride ion transport in said cell relative to a cell that lacks said nucleic acid editing system assembled with said lipid composition.

67. The method of claim 62, wherein the method yields at least about 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, or 30% of a functional of CFTR gene, transcript, protein, or any combination thereof in said cell.

68. The method of claim 62, wherein said cell is a lung cell or an airway epithelial cell.

69. The method of claim 62, wherein (b) comprises cleaving a CFTR gene or transcript that comprises a loss-of-function mutation.

70. The method of claim 69, wherein said loss-of-function mutation comprises a mutation in an exon selected from exons 9-27 of CFTR.

71. The method of claim 69, wherein said loss-of-function mutation is F508del or G542X.

72. The method of claim 62, wherein said lipid composition comprises: (1) an ionizable cationic lipid; and (2) a selective organ targeting (SORT) lipid separate from said ionizable cationic lipid.

73. The method of claim 72, wherein the ionizable cationic lipid is a dendrimer, dendron, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, having the structural Formula (D-I) or Formula (X); wherein Formula (D-I) is: Core-Repeating Unit-Terminating Group (D-I) wherein the core is linked to the repeating unit by removing one or more hydrogen atoms from the core and replacing the atom with the repeating unit and wherein: the core has the formula: ##STR00476## wherein: X.sub.1 is amino or alkylamino.sub.(C12), dialkylamino.sub.(C12), heterocycloalkyl.sub.(C12), heteroaryl.sub.(C12), or a substituted version thereof; R.sub.1 is amino, hydroxy, or mercapto, or alkylamino.sub.(C12), dialkylamino.sub.(C12), or a substituted version of either of these groups; and a is 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6; or the core has the formula: ##STR00477## wherein: X.sub.2 is N(R.sub.5).sub.y; R.sub.5 is hydrogen, alkyl.sub.(C18), or substituted alkyl.sub.(C18); and y is 0, 1, or 2, provided that the sum of y and z is 3; R.sub.2 is amino, hydroxy, or mercapto, or alkylamino.sub.(C12), dialkylamino.sub.(C12), or a substituted version of either of these groups; b is 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6; and z is 1, 2, 3; provided that the sum of z and y is 3; or the core has the formula: ##STR00478## wherein: X.sub.3 is NR.sub.6, wherein R.sub.6 is hydrogen, alkyl.sub.(C8), or substituted alkyl.sub.(C8), O, or alkylaminodiyl.sub.(C8), alkoxydiyl.sub.(C8), arenediyl.sub.(C8), heteroarenediyl.sub.(C8), heterocycloalkanediyl.sub.(C8), or a substituted version of any of these groups; R.sub.3 and R.sub.4 are each independently amino, hydroxy, or mercapto, or alkylamino.sub.(C12), dialkylamino.sub.(C12), or a substituted version of either of these groups; or a group of the formula: N(R.sub.f).sub.f(CH.sub.2CH.sub.2N(R.sub.c)).sub.eR.sub.d, ##STR00479## wherein: e and f are each independently 1, 2, or 3; provided that the sum of e and f is 3; R.sub.c, R.sub.d, and R.sub.f are each independently hydrogen, alkyl.sub.(C6), or substituted alkyl(cS6); c and d are each independently 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6; or the core is alkylamine.sub.(C18), dialkylamine.sub.(C36), heterocycloalkane.sub.(C12), or a substituted version of any of these groups; wherein the repeating unit comprises a degradable diacyl and a linker; the degradable diacyl group has the formula: ##STR00480## wherein: A.sub.1 and A.sub.2 are each independently O, S, or NR.sub.a, wherein: R.sub.a is hydrogen, alkyl.sub.(C6), or substituted alkyl.sub.(C6); Y.sub.3 is alkanediyl.sub.(C12), alkenediyl.sub.(C12), arenediyl.sub.(C12), or a substituted version of any of these groups; or a group of the formula: ##STR00481## wherein: X.sub.3 and X.sub.4 are alkanediyl.sub.(C12), alkenediyl.sub.(C12), arenediyl.sub.(C12), or a substituted version of any of these groups; Y.sub.5 is a covalent bond, alkanediyl.sub.(C12), alkenediyl.sub.(C12), arenediyl.sub.(C12), or a substituted version of any of these groups; and R.sub.9 is alkyl.sub.(C8) or substituted alkyl.sub.(C8); the linker group has the formula: ##STR00482## wherein: Y.sub.1 is alkanediyl.sub.(C12), alkenediyl.sub.(C12), arenediyl.sub.(C12), or a substituted version of any of these groups; and wherein when the repeating unit comprises a linker group, then the linker group comprises an independent degradable diacyl group attached to both the nitrogen and the sulfur atoms of the linker group if n is greater than 1, wherein the first group in the repeating unit is a degradable diacyl group, wherein for each linker group, the next repeating unit comprises two degradable diacyl groups attached to the nitrogen atom of the linker group; and wherein n is the number of linker groups present in the repeating unit; and the terminating group has the formula: ##STR00483## wherein: Y.sub.4 is alkanediyl.sub.(C18) or an alkanediyl.sub.(C18) wherein one or more of the hydrogen atoms on the alkanediyl.sub.(C18) has been replaced with OH, F, Cl, Br, I, SH, OCH.sub.3, OCH.sub.2CH.sub.3, SCH.sub.3, or OC(O)CH.sub.3; R.sub.10 is hydrogen, carboxy, hydroxy, or aryl.sub.(C12), alkylamino.sub.(C12), dialkylamino.sub.(C12), N-heterocycloalkyl.sub.(C12), C(O)N(R.sub.11)-alkanediyl.sub.(C6)-heterocycloalkyl.sub.(C12), C(O)-alkylamino.sub.(C12), C(O)-dialkylamino.sub.(C12), C(O)N-heterocycloalkyl.sub.(C12), wherein: R.sub.11 is hydrogen, alkyl.sub.(C6), or substituted alkyl.sub.(C6); wherein the final degradable diacyl in the chain is attached to a terminating group; n is 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6; and wherein, in Formula (X): ##STR00484## (a) the core comprises a structural formula (X.sub.Core): ##STR00485## wherein: Q is independently at each occurrence a covalent bond, O, S, NR.sup.2, or CR.sup.3aR.sup.3b; R.sup.2 is independently at each occurrence R.sup.1g or -L.sup.2-NR.sup.1eR.sup.1f; R.sup.3a and R.sup.3b are each independently at each occurrence hydrogen or an optionally substituted alkyl; R.sup.1a, R.sup.1b, R.sup.1c, R.sup.1d, R.sup.1e, R.sup.1f, and R.sup.1g are each independently at each occurrence a point of connection to a branch, hydrogen, or an optionally substituted alkyl; L.sup.0, L.sup.1, and L.sup.2 are each independently at each occurrence selected from a covalent bond, alkylene, heteroalkylene, [alkylene]-[heterocycloalkyl]-[alkylene], [alkylene]-(arylene)-[alkylene], heterocycloalkyl, and arylene; or, alternatively, part of L.sup.1 form a heterocycloalkyl with one of R.sup.1c and R.sup.1d; and x is 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6; and (b) each branch of the plurality (N) of branches independently comprises a structural formula (X.sub.Branch): ##STR00486## wherein: * indicates a point of attachment of the branch to the core; g is 1, 2, 3, or 4; Z=2.sup.(g-1); G=0, when g=1; or G=.sub.i=0.sup.i=g-2 2.sup.i, when g1; (c) each diacyl group independently comprises a structural formula ##STR00487## wherein: * indicates a point of attachment of the diacyl group at the proximal end thereof; ** indicates a point of attachment of the diacyl group at the distal end thereof; Y.sup.3 is independently at each occurrence an optionally substituted; alkylene, an optionally substituted alkenylene, or an optionally substituted arenylene; A.sup.1 and A.sup.2 are each independently at each occurrence O, S, or NR.sup.4, wherein: R.sup.4 is hydrogen or optionally substituted alkyl; m.sup.1 and m.sup.2 are each independently at each occurrence 1, 2, or 3; and R.sup.3c, R.sup.3d, R.sup.3e, and R.sup.3f are each independently at each occurrence hydrogen or an optionally substituted alkyl; and (d) each linker group independently comprises a structural formula ##STR00488## wherein: ** indicates a point of attachment of the linker to a proximal diacyl group; *** indicates a point of attachment of the linker to a distal diacyl group; and Y.sub.1 is independently at each occurrence an optionally substituted alkylene, an optionally substituted alkenylene, or an optionally substituted arenylene; and (e) each terminating group is independently selected from optionally substituted alkylthiol, and optionally substituted alkenylthiol.

74. The method of claim 73, wherein the SORT lipid has the structural formula of Formula (SI), Formula (S-II), Formula (IA), Formula (SI), Formula (S-II), Formula (SIII), Formula (SIa), Formula (IA), Formula (SIV), or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; wherein, Formula (SI) is: ##STR00489## wherein: Y.sub.1, Y.sub.2, or Y.sub.3 are each independently X.sub.1C(O)R.sub.1 or X.sub.2N.sup.+R.sub.3R.sub.4R.sub.5; provided at least one of Y.sub.1, Y.sub.2, and Y.sub.3 is X.sub.2N.sup.+R.sub.3R.sub.4R.sub.5; R.sub.1 is C.sub.1-C.sub.24 alkyl, C.sub.1-C.sub.24 substituted alkyl, C.sub.1-C.sub.24 alkenyl, C.sub.1-C.sub.24 substituted alkenyl; X.sub.1 is O or NR.sub.a, wherein R.sub.a is hydrogen, C.sub.1-C.sub.4 alkyl, or C.sub.1-C.sub.4 substituted alkyl; X.sub.2 is C.sub.1-C.sub.6 alkanediyl or C.sub.1-C.sub.6 substituted alkanediyl; R.sub.3, R.sub.4, and R.sub.5 are each independently C.sub.1-C.sub.24 alkyl, C.sub.1-C.sub.24 substituted alkyl, C.sub.1-C.sub.24 alkenyl, C.sub.1-C.sub.24 substituted alkenyl; and A.sub.1 is an anion with a charge equal to the number of X.sub.2N.sup.+R.sub.3R.sub.4R.sub.5 groups in the compound; wherein, Formula (S-II) is: ##STR00490## wherein: R.sub.6-R.sub.9 are each independently C.sub.1-C.sub.24 alkyl, C.sub.1-C.sub.24 substituted alkyl, C.sub.1-C.sub.24 alkenyl, C.sub.1-C.sub.24 substituted alkenyl; provided at least one of R.sub.6-R.sub.9 is a group of C.sub.8-C.sub.24; and A.sub.2 is a monovalent anion; wherein, Formula (S-II) is: ##STR00491## wherein: R.sub.1 and R.sub.2 are each independently alkyl.sub.(C8-C24), alkenyl.sub.(C8-C24), or a substituted version of either group; and R.sub.3 and R.sub.3 are each independently alkyl.sub.(C6) or substituted alkyl.sub.(C6); wherein, Formula (IA) is: ##STR00492## wherein: R.sub.1 and R.sub.2 are each independently alkyl.sub.(C8-C24), alkenyl.sub.(C8-C24), or a substituted version of either group; R.sub.3, R.sub.3, and R.sub.3 are each independently alkyl.sub.(C6) or substituted alkyl.sub.(C6); R.sub.4 is alkyl.sub.(C6) or substituted alkyl.sub.(C6); and X.sup. is a monovalent anion; wherein, Formula (SI) is: ##STR00493## wherein: R.sub.1 and R.sub.2 are each independently alkyl.sub.(C8-C24), alkenyl.sub.(C8-C24), or a substituted version of either group; R.sub.3, R.sub.3, and R.sub.3 are each independently alkyl.sub.(C6) or substituted alkyl.sub.(C6); X.sup. is a monovalent anion; wherein, Formula (S-II) is: ##STR00494## wherein: R.sub.4 and R.sub.4 are each independently alkyl.sub.(C6-C24), alkenyl.sub.(C6-C24), or a substituted version of either group; R.sub.4 is alkyl.sub.(C24), alkenyl.sub.(C24), or a substituted version of either group; R.sub.4 is alkyl.sub.(C1-C8), alkenyl.sub.(C2-C8), or a substituted version of either group; and X.sub.2 is a monovalent anion; wherein, Formula (SIII) is: ##STR00495## wherein: R.sub.1 and R.sub.2 are each independently alkyl.sub.(C8-C24), alkenyl.sub.(C8-C24), or a substituted version of either group; R.sub.3, R.sub.3, and R.sub.3 are each independently alkyl.sub.(C6) or substituted alkyl.sub.(C6); and X.sup. is a monovalent anion; wherein, Formula (IA) is: ##STR00496## wherein: R.sub.1 and R.sub.2 are each independently alkyl.sub.(C8-C24), alkenyl.sub.(C8-C24), or a substituted version of either group; R.sub.3, R.sub.3, and R.sub.3 are each independently alkyl.sub.(C6) or substituted alkyl.sub.(C6); and X.sup. is a monovalent anion; and wherein, Formula (S-II) is: ##STR00497## wherein: R.sub.1 and R.sub.2 are each independently alkyl.sub.(C8-C24), alkenyl.sub.(C8-C24), or a substituted version of either group; R.sub.3, R.sub.3, and R.sub.3 are each independently alkyl.sub.(C6) or substituted alkyl.sub.(C6); and X.sup. is a monovalent anion.

75. The method of claim 72, wherein said lipid composition further comprises a steroid or a steroid derivative, a polymer conjugated lipid, a phospholipid, or any combination thereof.

76. A composition comprising a nucleic acid editing system assembled with a lipid composition, wherein said nucleic acid editing system comprises: (i) a guide nucleic acid comprising a targeting sequence that is complementary to a target sequence of a cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene or transcript; (ii) a polypeptide comprising an endonuclease or a polynucleotide encoding said polypeptide, wherein said endonuclease is configured to (1) form a complex with said guide nucleic acid and (2) cleave said CFTR gene or transcript in a cell in a cleavage event; and (iii) a donor template nucleic acid configured to alter said CFTR gene or transcript, subsequent to said cleavage event, to provide a functional CFTR gene, transcript or protein in said cell.

77. The composition of claim 76, wherein said lipid composition comprises: (1) an ionizable cationic lipid; and (2) a selective organ targeting (SORT) lipid separate from said ionizable cationic lipid.

78. The composition of claim 77, wherein said lipid composition further comprises a steroid or a steroid derivative, a polymer conjugated lipid, a phospholipid, or any combination thereof.

79. The composition of claim 78, wherein: (a) said guide nucleic acid comprises a nucleotide sequence selected from those set forth in Table A and complementary sequences thereof; or (b) said donor template nucleic acid comprises a nucleotide sequence selected from those set forth in Table B and complementary sequences thereof.

80. The composition of claim 76, wherein said endonuclease is a CRISPR-associated 9 (Cas9) polypeptide or a modification thereof.

81. The composition of claim 76, wherein one or more of the following applies: (a) (i) and (iii) are present on two different molecules; (b) (i), (ii), and (iii) are present on three different molecules; or (c) at least two of (i), (ii) and (iii) are present on one molecule.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0025] The novel features of the invention are set forth with particularity in the appended claims. The patent or application file contains at least one drawing executed in color. Copies of this patent or patent application publication with color drawing(s) will be provided by the Office upon request and payment of the necessary fee. A better understanding of the features and advantages of the present invention will be obtained by reference to the following detailed description that sets forth illustrative embodiments, in which the principles of the invention are utilized, and the accompanying drawings (also Figure and FIG. herein), of which:

[0026] FIGS. 1A-1D shows charts of indel and knockin percentages of various compositions

[0027] FIGS. 2A-2B shows charts of indel and knockin percentages of various compositions for editing and correction of G542X CFTR mutations [GACAACACAGTTCTCTGAGAAGG=SEQ ID NO: 3]

[0028] FIGS. 3A-3B shows charts of indel and knockin percentages of various compositions using different ratios of components

[0029] FIGS. 4A-4B show delivery of mRNA to mice basal cells by the lipid composition(s) described herein in the present application. FIGS. 4C-4D shows a chart of the indel and knock in percentages.

[0030] FIGS. 5A-5B show TIDER analysis of HBE cell treatment as described herein, illustrating the editing efficiency (FIG. 5A) and knock-in % (FIG. 5B) of the gene editing technology.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0031] Before the embodiments of the disclosure are described, it is to be understood that such embodiments are provided by way of example only, and that various alternatives to the embodiments of the disclosure described herein may be employed in practicing the invention. Numerous variations, changes, and substitutions will now occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the invention.

[0032] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the present invention, suitable methods and materials are described below. In case of conflict, the patent specification, including definitions, will control. In addition, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting. Numerous variations, changes, and substitutions will now occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the invention.

[0033] In the context of the present application, the following terms have the meanings ascribed to them unless specified otherwise:

[0034] As used throughout the specification and claims, the terms a, an and the are generally used in the sense that they mean at least one, at least a first, one or more or a plurality of the referenced components or steps, except in instances wherein an upper limit is thereafter specifically stated. For example, a cleavage sequence, as used herein, means at least a first cleavage sequence but includes a plurality of cleavage sequences. The operable limits and parameters of combinations, as with the amounts of any single agent, will be known to those of ordinary skill in the art in light of the present application.

[0035] The terms polypeptide, peptide, and protein are used interchangeably herein to generally refer to polymers of amino acids of any length. The polymer may be linear or branched, it may comprise modified amino acids, and it may be interrupted by non-amino acids.

[0036] The terms also encompass an amino acid polymer that has been modified, for example, by disulfide bond formation, glycosylation, lipidation, acetylation, phosphorylation, or any other manipulation, such as conjugation with a labeling component.

[0037] As used herein in the context of the structure of a polypeptide, N-terminus (or amino terminus) and C-terminus (or carboxyl terminus) generally refer to the extreme amino and carboxyl ends of the polypeptide, respectively.

[0038] The term N-terminal end sequence, as used herein with respect to a polypeptide or polynucleotide sequence of interest, generally means that no other amino acid or nucleotide residues precede the N-terminal end sequence in the polypeptide or polynucleotide sequence of interest at the N-terminal end. The term C-terminal end sequence, as used herein with respect to a polypeptide or polynucleotide sequence of interest, generally means that no other amino acid or nucleotide residues follows the C-terminal end sequence in the polypeptide or polynucleotide sequence of interest at the C-terminal end.

[0039] The terms non-naturally occurring and non-natural are used interchangeably herein. The term non-naturally occurring or non-natural, as used herein with respect to a polypeptide or polynucleotide, generally means that the agent is not biologically derived in mammals (including but not limited to human). The term non-naturally occurring or non-natural, as applied to sequences and as used herein, means polypeptide or polynucleotide sequences that do not have a counterpart to, are not complementary to, or do not have a high degree of homology with a wild-type or naturally-occurring sequence found in a mammal. For example, a non-naturally occurring polypeptide or fragment may share no more than 99%, 98%, 95%, 90%, 80%, 70%, 60%, 50% or even less amino acid sequence identity as compared to a natural sequence when suitably aligned.

[0040] Physiological conditions refers to a set of conditions in a living host as well as in vitro conditions, including temperature, salt concentration, pH, that mimic those conditions of a living subject. A host of physiologically relevant conditions for use in in vitro assays have been established. Generally, a physiological buffer contains a physiological concentration of salt and is adjusted to a neutral pH ranging from about 6.5 to about 7.8, and preferably from about 7.0 to about 7.5. A variety of physiological buffers are listed in Sambrook et al. (2001). Physiologically relevant temperature ranges from about 25 C. to about 38 C., and preferably from about 35 C. to about 37 C.

[0041] As used herein, the terms treatment or treating, or palliating or ameliorating are used interchangeably herein. These terms generally refer to an approach for obtaining beneficial or desired results including but not limited to a therapeutic benefit and/or a prophylactic benefit. By therapeutic benefit is meant eradication or amelioration of the underlying disorder being treated. Also, a therapeutic benefit is achieved with the eradication or amelioration of one or more of the physiological symptoms or improvement in one or more clinical parameters associated with the underlying disorder such that an improvement is observed in the subject, notwithstanding that the subject may still be afflicted with the underlying disorder. For prophylactic benefit, the compositions may be administered to a subject at risk of developing a particular disease, or to a subject reporting one or more of the physiological symptoms of a disease, even though a diagnosis of this disease may not have been made.

[0042] A therapeutic effect or therapeutic benefit, as used herein, generally refers to a physiologic effect, including but not limited to the mitigation, amelioration, or prevention of disease or an improvement in one or more clinical parameters associated with the underlying disorder in humans or other animals, or to otherwise enhance physical or mental wellbeing of humans or animals, resulting from administration of a polypeptide of the disclosure other than the ability to induce the production of an antibody against an antigenic epitope possessed by the biologically active protein. For prophylactic benefit, the compositions may be administered to a subject at risk of developing a particular disease, a recurrence of a former disease, condition or symptom of the disease, or to a subject reporting one or more of the physiological symptoms of a disease, even though a diagnosis of this disease may not have been made.

[0043] The terms therapeutically effective amount and therapeutically effective dose, as used herein, generally refer to an amount of a drug or a biologically active protein, either alone or as a part of a polypeptide composition, that is capable of having any detectable, beneficial effect on any symptom, aspect, measured parameter or characteristics of a disease state or condition when administered in one or repeated doses to a subject. Such effect need not be absolute to be beneficial. Determination of a therapeutically effective amount is well within the capability of those skilled in the art, especially in light of the detailed disclosure provided herein.

[0044] The term equivalent molar dose generally means that the amounts of materials administered to a subject have an equivalent amount of moles, based on the molecular weight of the material used in the dose.

[0045] The term therapeutically effective and non-toxic dose, as used herein, generally refers to a tolerable dose of the compositions as defined herein that is high enough to cause depletion of tumor or cancer cells, tumor elimination, tumor shrinkage or stabilization of disease without or essentially without major toxic effects in the subject. Such therapeutically effective and non-toxic doses may be determined by dose escalation studies described in the art and should be below the dose inducing severe adverse side effects.

[0046] The terms cancer and cancerous refer to or describe the physiological condition in mammals that is typically characterized by unregulated cell growth/proliferation.

[0047] When used in the context of a chemical group: hydrogen means H; hydroxy means OH; oxo means O; carbonyl means C(O); carboxy means C(O)OH (also written as COOH or CO.sub.2H); halo means independently F, Cl, Br or I; amino means NH.sub.2; hydroxyamino means NHOH; nitro means NO.sub.2; imino means NH; cyano means CN; isocyanate means NCO; azido means N.sub.3; in a monovalent context phosphate means OP(O)(OH).sub.2 or a deprotonated form thereof; in a divalent context phosphate means OP(O)(OH)O or a deprotonated form thereof; mercapto means SH; and thio means S; sulfonyl means S(O).sub.2; hydroxysulfonyl means S(O).sub.2OH; sulfonamide means S(O).sub.2NH.sub.2; and sulfinyl means S(O).

[0048] In the context of chemical formulas, the symbol means a single bond, means a double bond, and means triple bond. The symbol represents an optional bond, which if present is either single or double. The symbol represents a single bond or a double bond. Thus, for example, the formula

##STR00001##

includes

##STR00002##

And it is understood that no one such ring atom forms part of more than one double bond. Furthermore, it is noted that the covalent bond symbol , when connecting one or two stereogenic atoms, does not indicate any preferred stereochemistry. Instead, it covers all stereoisomers as well as mixtures thereof. The symbol , when drawn perpendicularly across a bond (e.g.,

##STR00003##

for methyl) indicates a point of attachment of the group. It is noted that the point of attachment is typically only identified in this manner for larger groups in order to assist the reader in unambiguously identifying a point of attachment. The symbol means a single bond where the group attached to the thick end of the wedge is out of the page. The symbol means a single bond where the group attached to the thick end of the wedge is into the page. The symbol means a single bond where the geometry around a double bond (e.g., either E or Z) is undefined. Both options, as well as combinations thereof are therefore intended. Any undefined valency on an atom of a structure shown in this application implicitly represents a hydrogen atom bonded to that atom. A bold dot on a carbon atom indicates that the hydrogen attached to that carbon is oriented out of the plane of the paper.

[0049] When a group R is depicted as a floating group on a ring system, for example, in the formula:

##STR00004##

then R may replace any hydrogen atom attached to any of the ring atoms, including a depicted, implied, or expressly defined hydrogen, so long as a stable structure is formed. When a group R is depicted as a floating group on a fused ring system, as for example in the formula:

##STR00005##

then R may replace any hydrogen attached to any of the ring atoms of either of the fused rings unless specified otherwise. Replaceable hydrogens include depicted hydrogens (e.g., the hydrogen attached to the nitrogen in the formula above), implied hydrogens (e.g., a hydrogen of the formula above that is not shown but understood to be present), expressly defined hydrogens, and optional hydrogens whose presence depends on the identity of a ring atom (e.g., a hydrogen attached to group X, when X equals CH), so long as a stable structure is formed. In the example depicted, R may reside on either the 5-membered or the 6-membered ring of the fused ring system. In the formula above, the subscript letter y immediately following the group R enclosed in parentheses, represents a numeric variable. Unless specified otherwise, this variable can be 0, 1, 2, or any integer greater than 2, only limited by the maximum number of replaceable hydrogen atoms of the ring or ring system.

[0050] For the chemical groups and compound classes, the number of carbon atoms in the group or class is as indicated as follows: Cn defines the exact number (n) of carbon atoms in the group/class. Cn defines the maximum number (n) of carbon atoms that can be in the group/class, with the minimum number as small as possible for the group/class in question, e.g., it is understood that the minimum number of carbon atoms in the group alkenyl.sub.(C8) or the class alkene.sub.(C8) is two. Compare with alkoxy.sub.(C10), which designates alkoxy groups having from 1 to 10 carbon atoms. Cn-n defines both the minimum (n) and maximum number (n) of carbon atoms in the group. Thus, alkyl.sub.(C2-10) designates those alkyl groups having from 2 to 10 carbon atoms. These carbon number indicators may precede or follow the chemical groups or class it modifies and it may or may not be enclosed in parenthesis, without signifying any change in meaning. Thus, the terms C5 olefin, C5-olefin, olefin.sub.(C5), and olefin.sub.C5 are all synonymous.

[0051] The term saturated when used to modify a compound or chemical group means the compound or chemical group has no carbon-carbon double and no carbon-carbon triple bonds, except as noted below. When the term is used to modify an atom, it means that the atom is not part of any double or triple bond. In the case of substituted versions of saturated groups, one or more carbon oxygen double bond or a carbon nitrogen double bond may be present. And when such a bond is present, then carbon-carbon double bonds that may occur as part of keto-enol tautomerism or imine/enamine tautomerism are not precluded. When the term saturated is used to modify a solution of a substance, it means that no more of that substance can dissolve in that solution.

[0052] The term aliphatic when used without the substituted modifier signifies that the compound or chemical group so modified is an acyclic or cyclic, but non-aromatic hydrocarbon compound or group. In aliphatic compounds/groups, the carbon atoms can be joined together in straight chains, branched chains, or non-aromatic rings (alicyclic). Aliphatic compounds/groups can be saturated, that is joined by single carbon-carbon bonds (alkanes/alkyl), or unsaturated, with one or more carbon-carbon double bonds (alkenes/alkenyl) or with one or more carbon-carbon triple bonds (alkynes/alkynyl).

[0053] The term aromatic when used to modify a compound or a chemical group atom means the compound or chemical group contains a planar unsaturated ring of atoms that is stabilized by an interaction of the bonds forming the ring.

[0054] The term alkyl when used without the substituted modifier refers to a monovalent saturated aliphatic group with a carbon atom as the point of attachment, a linear or branched acyclic structure, and no atoms other than carbon and hydrogen. The groups CH.sub.3 (Me), CH.sub.2CH.sub.3 (Et), CH.sub.2CH.sub.2CH.sub.3 (n-Pr or propyl), CH(CH.sub.3).sub.2 (i-Pr, .sup.iPr or isopropyl), CH.sub.2CH.sub.2CH.sub.2CH.sub.3 (n-Bu), CH(CH.sub.3)CH.sub.2CH.sub.3 (sec-butyl), CH.sub.2CH(CH.sub.3).sub.2 (isobutyl), C(CH.sub.3).sub.3 (tert-butyl, t-butyl, t-Bu or .sup.tBu), and CH.sub.2C(CH.sub.3).sub.3 (neo-pentyl) are non-limiting examples of alkyl groups. The term alkanediyl when used without the substituted modifier refers to a divalent saturated aliphatic group, with one or two saturated carbon atom(s) as the point(s) of attachment, a linear or branched acyclic structure, no carbon-carbon double or triple bonds, and no atoms other than carbon and hydrogen. The groups CH.sub.2 (methylene), CH.sub.2CH.sub.2, CH.sub.2C(CH.sub.3).sub.2CH.sub.2, and CH.sub.2CH.sub.2CH.sub.2 are non-limiting examples of alkanediyl groups. An alkane refers to the class of compounds having the formula H-R, wherein R is alkyl as this term is defined above. When any of these terms is used with the substituted modifier one or more hydrogen atom has been independently replaced by OH, F, Cl, Br, I, NH.sub.2, NO.sub.2, CO.sub.2H, CO.sub.2CH.sub.3, CN, SH, OCH.sub.3, OCH.sub.2CH.sub.3, C(O)CH.sub.3, NHCH.sub.3, NHCH.sub.2CH.sub.3, N(CH.sub.3).sub.2, C(O)NH.sub.2, C(O)NHCH.sub.3, C(O)N(CH.sub.3).sub.2, OC(O)CH.sub.3, NHC(O)CH.sub.3, S(O).sub.2OH, or S(O).sub.2NH.sub.2. The following groups are non-limiting examples of substituted alkyl groups: CH.sub.2OH, CH.sub.2Cl, CF.sub.3, CH.sub.2CN, CH.sub.2C(O)OH, CH.sub.2C(O)OCH.sub.3, CH.sub.2C(O)NH.sub.2, CH.sub.2C(O)CH.sub.3, CH.sub.2OCH.sub.3, CH.sub.2OC(O)CH.sub.3, CH.sub.2NH.sub.2, CH.sub.2N(CH.sub.3).sub.2, and CH.sub.2CH.sub.2Cl. The term haloalkyl is a subset of substituted alkyl, in which the hydrogen atom replacement is limited to halo (i.e. F, Cl, Br, or I) such that no other atoms aside from carbon, hydrogen and halogen are present. The group, CH.sub.2Cl is a non-limiting example of a haloalkyl. The term fluoroalkyl is a subset of substituted alkyl, in which the hydrogen atom replacement is limited to fluoro such that no other atoms aside from carbon, hydrogen and fluorine are present. The groups CH.sub.2F, CF.sub.3, and CH.sub.2CF.sub.3 are non-limiting examples of fluoroalkyl groups.

[0055] The term cycloalkyl when used without the substituted modifier refers to a monovalent saturated aliphatic group with a carbon atom as the point of attachment, the carbon atom forming part of one or more non-aromatic ring structures, no carbon-carbon double or triple bonds, and no atoms other than carbon and hydrogen. Non-limiting examples include: CH(CH.sub.2).sub.2 (cyclopropyl), cyclobutyl, cyclopentyl, or cyclohexyl (Cy). The term cycloalkanediyl when used without the substituted modifier refers to a divalent saturated aliphatic group with two carbon atoms as points of attachment, no carbon-carbon double or triple bonds, and no atoms other than carbon and hydrogen. The group

##STR00006##

is a non-limiting example of cycloalkanediyl group. A cycloalkane refers to the class of compounds having the formula H-R, wherein R is cycloalkyl as this term is defined above. When any of these terms is used with the substituted modifier one or more hydrogen atom has been independently replaced by OH, F, Cl, Br, I, NH.sub.2, NO.sub.2, CO.sub.2H, CO.sub.2CH.sub.3, CN, SH, OCH.sub.3, OCH.sub.2CH.sub.3, C(O)CH.sub.3, NHCH.sub.3, NHCH.sub.2CH.sub.3, N(CH.sub.3).sub.2, C(O)NH.sub.2, C(O)NHCH.sub.3, C(O)N(CH.sub.3).sub.2, OC(O)CH.sub.3, NHC(O)CH.sub.3, S(O).sub.2OH, or S(O).sub.2NH.sub.2.

[0056] The term alkenyl when used without the substituted modifier refers to an monovalent unsaturated aliphatic group with a carbon atom as the point of attachment, a linear or branched, acyclic structure, at least one nonaromatic carbon-carbon double bond, no carbon-carbon triple bonds, and no atoms other than carbon and hydrogen. Non-limiting examples include: CHCH.sub.2 (vinyl), CHCHCH.sub.3, CHCHCH.sub.2CH.sub.3, CH.sub.2CHCH.sub.2 (allyl), CH.sub.2CHCHCH.sub.3, and CHCHCHCH.sub.2. The term alkenediyl when used without the substituted modifier refers to a divalent unsaturated aliphatic group, with two carbon atoms as points of attachment, a linear or branched, a linear or branched acyclic structure, at least one nonaromatic carbon-carbon double bond, no carbon-carbon triple bonds, and no atoms other than carbon and hydrogen. The groups CHCH, CHC(CH.sub.3)CH.sub.2, CHCHCH.sub.2, and CH.sub.2CHCHCH.sub.2 are non-limiting examples of alkenediyl groups. It is noted that while the alkenediyl group is aliphatic, once connected at both ends, this group is not precluded from forming part of an aromatic structure. The terms alkene and olefin are synonymous and refer to the class of compounds having the formula H-R, wherein R is alkenyl as this term is defined above. Similarly the terms terminal alkene and -olefin are synonymous and refer to an alkene having just one carbon-carbon double bond, wherein that bond is part of a vinyl group at an end of the molecule. When any of these terms are used with the substituted modifier one or more hydrogen atom has been independently replaced by OH, F, Cl, Br, I, NH.sub.2, NO.sub.2, CO.sub.2H, CO.sub.2CH.sub.3, CN, SH, OCH.sub.3, OCH.sub.2CH.sub.3, C(O)CH.sub.3, NHCH.sub.3, NHCH.sub.2CH.sub.3, N(CH.sub.3).sub.2, C(O)NH.sub.2, C(O)NHCH.sub.3, C(O)N(CH.sub.3).sub.2, OC(O)CH.sub.3, NHC(O)CH.sub.3, S(O).sub.2OH, or S(O).sub.2NH.sub.2. The groups CHCHF, CHCHCl and CHCHBr are non-limiting examples of substituted alkenyl groups.

[0057] The term alkynyl when used without the substituted modifier refers to a monovalent unsaturated aliphatic group with a carbon atom as the point of attachment, a linear or branched acyclic structure, at least one carbon-carbon triple bond, and no atoms other than carbon and hydrogen. As used herein, the term alkynyl does not preclude the presence of one or more non-aromatic carbon-carbon double bonds. The groups CCH, CCCH.sub.3, and CH.sub.2CCCH.sub.3 are non-limiting examples of alkynyl groups. An alkyne refers to the class of compounds having the formula H-R, wherein R is alkynyl. When any of these terms are used with the substituted modifier one or more hydrogen atom has been independently replaced by OH, F, Cl, Br, I, NH.sub.2, NO.sub.2, CO.sub.2H, CO.sub.2CH.sub.3, CN, SH, OCH.sub.3, OCH.sub.2CH.sub.3, C(O)CH.sub.3, NHCH.sub.3, NHCH.sub.2CH.sub.3, N(CH.sub.3).sub.2, C(O)NH.sub.2, C(O)NHCH.sub.3, C(O)N(CH.sub.3).sub.2, OC(O)CH.sub.3, NHC(O)CH.sub.3, S(O).sub.2OH, or S(O).sub.2NH.sub.2.

[0058] The term aryl when used without the substituted modifier refers to a monovalent unsaturated aromatic group with an aromatic carbon atom as the point of attachment, the carbon atom forming part of a one or more six-membered aromatic ring structure, wherein the ring atoms are all carbon, and wherein the group consists of no atoms other than carbon and hydrogen. If more than one ring is present, the rings may be fused or unfused. As used herein, the term does not preclude the presence of one or more alkyl or aralkyl groups (carbon number limitation permitting) attached to the first aromatic ring or any additional aromatic ring present. Non-limiting examples of aryl groups include phenyl (Ph), methylphenyl, (dimethyl)phenyl, C.sub.6H.sub.4CH.sub.2CH.sub.3 (ethylphenyl), naphthyl, and a monovalent group derived from biphenyl. The term arenediyl when used without the substituted modifier refers to a divalent aromatic group with two aromatic carbon atoms as points of attachment, the carbon atoms forming part of one or more six-membered aromatic ring structure(s) wherein the ring atoms are all carbon, and wherein the monovalent group consists of no atoms other than carbon and hydrogen. As used herein, the term does not preclude the presence of one or more alkyl, aryl or aralkyl groups (carbon number limitation permitting) attached to the first aromatic ring or any additional aromatic ring present. If more than one ring is present, the rings may be fused or unfused. Unfused rings may be connected via one or more of the following: a covalent bond, alkanediyl, or alkenediyl groups (carbon number limitation permitting). Non-limiting examples of arenediyl groups include:

##STR00007##

[0059] An arene refers to the class of compounds having the formula H-R, wherein R is aryl as that term is defined above. Benzene and toluene are non-limiting examples of arenes. When any of these terms are used with the substituted modifier one or more hydrogen atom has been independently replaced by OH, F, Cl, Br, I, NH.sub.2, NO.sub.2, CO.sub.2H, CO.sub.2CH.sub.3, CN, SH, OCH.sub.3, OCH.sub.2CH.sub.3, C(O)CH.sub.3, NHCH.sub.3, NHCH.sub.2CH.sub.3, N(CH.sub.3).sub.2, C(O)NH.sub.2, C(O)NHCH.sub.3, C(O)N(CH.sub.3).sub.2, OC(O)CH.sub.3, NHC(O)CH.sub.3, S(O).sub.2OH, or S(O).sub.2NH.sub.2.

[0060] The term aralkyl when used without the substituted modifier refers to the monovalent group -alkanediyl-aryl, in which the terms alkanediyl and aryl are each used in a manner consistent with the definitions provided above. Non-limiting examples are: phenylmethyl (benzyl, Bn) and 2-phenyl-ethyl. When the term aralkyl is used with the substituted modifier one or more hydrogen atom from the alkanediyl and/or the aryl group has been independently replaced by OH, F, Cl, Br, I, NH.sub.2, NO.sub.2, CO.sub.2H, CO.sub.2CH.sub.3, CN, SH, OCH.sub.3, OCH.sub.2CH.sub.3, C(O)CH.sub.3, NHCH.sub.3, NHCH.sub.2CH.sub.3, N(CH.sub.3).sub.2, C(O)NH.sub.2, C(O)NHCH.sub.3, C(O)N(CH.sub.3).sub.2, OC(O)CH.sub.3, NHC(O)CH.sub.3, S(O).sub.2OH, or S(O).sub.2NH.sub.2. Non-limiting examples of substituted aralkyls are: (3-chlorophenyl)-methyl, and 2-chloro-2-phenyl-eth-1-yl.

[0061] The term heteroaryl when used without the substituted modifier refers to a monovalent aromatic group with an aromatic carbon atom or nitrogen atom as the point of attachment, the carbon atom or nitrogen atom forming part of one or more aromatic ring structures wherein at least one of the ring atoms is nitrogen, oxygen or sulfur, and wherein the heteroaryl group consists of no atoms other than carbon, hydrogen, aromatic nitrogen, aromatic oxygen and aromatic sulfur. Heteroaryl rings may contain 1, 2, 3, or 4 ring atoms selected from are nitrogen, oxygen, and sulfur. If more than one ring is present, the rings may be fused or unfused. As used herein, the term does not preclude the presence of one or more alkyl, aryl, and/or aralkyl groups (carbon number limitation permitting) attached to the aromatic ring or aromatic ring system. Non-limiting examples of heteroaryl groups include furanyl, imidazolyl, indolyl, indazolyl (Im), isoxazolyl, methylpyridinyl, oxazolyl, phenylpyridinyl, pyridinyl (pyridyl), pyrrolyl, pyrimidinyl, pyrazinyl, quinolyl, quinazolyl, quinoxalinyl, triazinyl, tetrazolyl, thiazolyl, thienyl, and triazolyl. The term N-heteroaryl refers to a heteroaryl group with a nitrogen atom as the point of attachment. The term heteroarenediyl when used without the substituted modifier refers to an divalent aromatic group, with two aromatic carbon atoms, two aromatic nitrogen atoms, or one aromatic carbon atom and one aromatic nitrogen atom as the two points of attachment, the atoms forming part of one or more aromatic ring structure(s) wherein at least one of the ring atoms is nitrogen, oxygen or sulfur, and wherein the divalent group consists of no atoms other than carbon, hydrogen, aromatic nitrogen, aromatic oxygen and aromatic sulfur. If more than one ring is present, the rings may be fused or unfused. Unfused rings may be connected via one or more of the following: a covalent bond, alkanediyl, or alkenediyl groups (carbon number limitation permitting). As used herein, the term does not preclude the presence of one or more alkyl, aryl, and/or aralkyl groups (carbon number limitation permitting) attached to the aromatic ring or aromatic ring system. Non-limiting examples of heteroarenediyl groups include:

##STR00008##

[0062] A heteroarene refers to the class of compounds having the formula H-R, wherein R is heteroaryl. Pyridine and quinoline are non-limiting examples of heteroarenes. When these terms are used with the substituted modifier one or more hydrogen atom has been independently replaced by OH, F, Cl, Br, I, NH.sub.2, NO.sub.2, CO.sub.2H, CO.sub.2CH.sub.3, CN, SH, OCH.sub.3, OCH.sub.2CH.sub.3, C(O)CH.sub.3, NHCH.sub.3, NHCH.sub.2CH.sub.3, N(CH.sub.3).sub.2, C(O)NH.sub.2, C(O)NHCH.sub.3, C(O)N(CH.sub.3).sub.2, OC(O)CH.sub.3, NHC(O)CH.sub.3, S(O).sub.2OH, or S(O).sub.2NH.sub.2.

[0063] The term heterocycloalkyl when used without the substituted modifier refers to a monovalent non-aromatic group with a carbon atom or nitrogen atom as the point of attachment, the carbon atom or nitrogen atom forming part of one or more non-aromatic ring structures wherein at least one of the ring atoms is nitrogen, oxygen or sulfur, and wherein the heterocycloalkyl group consists of no atoms other than carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, oxygen and sulfur. Heterocycloalkyl rings may contain 1, 2, 3, or 4 ring atoms selected from nitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur. If more than one ring is present, the rings may be fused or unfused. As used herein, the term does not preclude the presence of one or more alkyl groups (carbon number limitation permitting) attached to the ring or ring system. Also, the term does not preclude the presence of one or more double bonds in the ring or ring system, provided that the resulting group remains non-aromatic. Non-limiting examples of heterocycloalkyl groups include aziridinyl, azetidinyl, pyrrolidinyl, piperidinyl, piperazinyl, morpholinyl, thiomorpholinyl, tetrahydrofuranyl, tetrahydrothiofuranyl, tetrahydropyranyl, pyranyl, oxiranyl, and oxetanyl.

[0064] The term N-heterocycloalkyl refers to a heterocycloalkyl group with a nitrogen atom as the point of attachment. N-pyrrolidinyl is an example of such a group. The term heterocycloalkanediyl when used without the substituted modifier refers to a divalent cyclic group, with two carbon atoms, two nitrogen atoms, or one carbon atom and one nitrogen atom as the two points of attachment, the atoms forming part of one or more ring structure(s) wherein at least one of the ring atoms is nitrogen, oxygen or sulfur, and wherein the divalent group consists of no atoms other than carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, oxygen and sulfur. If more than one ring is present, the rings may be fused or unfused. Unfused rings may be connected via one or more of the following: a covalent bond, alkanediyl, or alkenediyl groups (carbon number limitation permitting). As used herein, the term does not preclude the presence of one or more alkyl groups (carbon number limitation permitting) attached to the ring or ring system. Also, the term does not preclude the presence of one or more double bonds in the ring or ring system, provided that the resulting group remains non-aromatic. Non-limiting examples of heterocycloalkanediyl groups include:

##STR00009##

When these terms are used with the substituted modifier one or more hydrogen atom has been independently replaced by OH, F, Cl, Br, I, NH.sub.2, NO.sub.2, CO.sub.2H, CO.sub.2CH.sub.3, CN, SH, OCH.sub.3, OCH.sub.2CH.sub.3, C(O)CH.sub.3, NHCH.sub.3, NHCH.sub.2CH.sub.3, N(CH.sub.3).sub.2, C(O)NH.sub.2, C(O)NHCH.sub.3, C(O)N(CH.sub.3).sub.2, OC(O)CH.sub.3, NHC(O)CH.sub.3, S(O).sub.2OH, or S(O).sub.2NH.sub.2.

[0065] The term acyl when used without the substituted modifier refers to the group C(O)R, in which R is a hydrogen, alkyl, cycloalkyl, alkenyl, aryl, aralkyl or heteroaryl, as those terms are defined above. The groups, CHO, C(O)CH.sub.3 (acetyl, Ac), C(O)CH.sub.2CH.sub.3, C(O)CH.sub.2CH.sub.2CH.sub.3, C(O)CH(CH.sub.3).sub.2, C(O)CH(CH.sub.2).sub.2, C(O)C.sub.6H.sub.5, C(O)CH.sub.4CH.sub.3, C(O)CH.sub.2C.sub.6H.sub.5, C(O)(imidazolyl) are non-limiting examples of acyl groups. A thioacyl is defined in an analogous manner, except that the oxygen atom of the group C(O)R has been replaced with a sulfur atom, C(S)R. The term aldehyde corresponds to an alkane, as defined above, wherein at least one of the hydrogen atoms has been replaced with a CHO group. When any of these terms are used with the substituted modifier one or more hydrogen atom (including a hydrogen atom directly attached to the carbon atom of the carbonyl or thiocarbonyl group, if any) has been independently replaced by OH, F, Cl, Br, I, NH.sub.2, NO.sub.2, CO.sub.2H, CO.sub.2CH.sub.3, CN, SH, OCH.sub.3, OCH.sub.2CH.sub.3, C(O)CH.sub.3, NHCH.sub.3, NHCH.sub.2CH.sub.3, N(CH.sub.3).sub.2, C(O)NH.sub.2, C(O)NHCH.sub.3, C(O)N(CH.sub.3).sub.2, OC(O)CH.sub.3, NHC(O)CH.sub.3, S(O).sub.2OH, or S(O).sub.2NH.sub.2. The groups, C(O)CH.sub.2CF.sub.3, CO.sub.2H (carboxyl), CO.sub.2CH.sub.3 (methylcarboxyl), CO.sub.2CH.sub.2CH.sub.3, C(O)NH.sub.2 (carbamoyl), and CON(CH.sub.3).sub.2, are non-limiting examples of substituted acyl groups.

[0066] The term alkoxy when used without the substituted modifier refers to the group OR, in which R is an alkyl, as that term is defined above. Non-limiting examples include: OCH.sub.3 (methoxy), OCH.sub.2CH.sub.3 (ethoxy), OCH.sub.2CH.sub.2CH.sub.3, OCH(CH.sub.3).sub.2 (isopropoxy), OC(CH.sub.3).sub.3 (tert-butoxy), OCH(CH.sub.2).sub.2, O-cyclopentyl, and O-cyclohexyl. The terms cycloalkoxy, alkenyloxy, alkynyloxy, aryloxy, aralkoxy, heteroaryloxy, heterocycloalkoxy, and acyloxy, when used without the substituted modifier, refers to groups, defined as OR, in which R is cycloalkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, aryl, aralkyl, heteroaryl, heterocycloalkyl, and acyl, respectively. The term alkoxydiyl refers to the divalent group O-alkanediyl-, O-alkanediyl-O, or -alkanediyl-O-alkanediyl-. The term alkylthio and acylthio when used without the substituted modifier refers to the group SR, in which R is an alkyl and acyl, respectively. The term alcohol corresponds to an alkane, as defined above, wherein at least one of the hydrogen atoms has been replaced with a hydroxy group.

[0067] The term ether corresponds to an alkane, as defined above, wherein at least one of the hydrogen atoms has been replaced with an alkoxy group. When any of these terms is used with the substituted modifier one or more hydrogen atom has been independently replaced by OH, F, Cl, Br, I, NH.sub.2, NO.sub.2, CO.sub.2H, CO.sub.2CH.sub.3, CN, SH, OCH.sub.3, OCH.sub.2CH.sub.3, C(O)CH.sub.3, NHCH.sub.3, NHCH.sub.2CH.sub.3, N(CH.sub.3).sub.2, C(O)NH.sub.2, C(O)NHCH.sub.3, C(O)N(CH.sub.3).sub.2, OC(O)CH.sub.3, NHC(O)CH.sub.3, S(O).sub.2OH, or S(O).sub.2NH.sub.2.

[0068] The term alkylamino when used without the substituted modifier refers to the group NHR, in which R is an alkyl, as that term is defined above. Non-limiting examples include: NHCH.sub.3 and NHCH.sub.2CH.sub.3.

[0069] The term dialkylamino when used without the substituted modifier refers to the group NRR, in which R and R can be the same or different alkyl groups, or R and R can be taken together to represent an alkanediyl. Non-limiting examples of dialkylamino groups include: N(CH.sub.3).sub.2 and N(CH.sub.3)CH.sub.2CH.sub.3). The terms cycloalkylamino, alkenylamino, alkynylamino, arylamino, aralkylamino, heteroarylamino, heterocycloalkylamino, alkoxyamino, and alkylsulfonylamino when used without the substituted modifier, refers to groups, defined as NHR, in which R is cycloalkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, aryl, aralkyl, heteroaryl, heterocycloalkyl, alkoxy, and alkylsulfonyl, respectively. A non-limiting example of an arylamino group is NHC.sub.6H.sub.5. The term alkylaminodiyl refers to the divalent group NH-alkanediyl-, NH-alkanediyl-NH, or -alkanediyl-NH-alkanediyl-. The term amido (acylamino), when used without the substituted modifier, refers to the group NHR, in which R is acyl, as that term is defined above. A non-limiting example of an amido group is NHC(O)CH.sub.3. The term alkylimino when used without the substituted modifier refers to the divalent group NR, in which R is an alkyl, as that term is defined above. When any of these terms is used with the substituted modifier one or more hydrogen atom attached to a carbon atom has been independently replaced by OH, F, Cl, Br, I, NH.sub.2, NO.sub.2, CO.sub.2H, CO.sub.2CH.sub.3, CN, SH, OCH.sub.3, OCH.sub.2CH.sub.3, C(O)CH.sub.3, NHCH.sub.3, NHCH.sub.2CH.sub.3, N(CH.sub.3).sub.2, C(O)NH.sub.2, C(O)NHCH.sub.3, C(O)N(CH.sub.3).sub.2, OC(O)CH.sub.3, NHC(O)CH.sub.3, S(O).sub.2OH, or S(O).sub.2NH.sub.2. The groups NHC(O)OCH.sub.3 and NHC(O)NHCH.sub.3 are non-limiting examples of substituted amido groups.

[0070] Throughout this application, the term about is used to indicate that a value includes the inherent variation of error for the device, the method being employed to determine the value, or the variation that exists among the study subjects. Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing quantities of ingredients, reaction conditions, and so forth used in the specification and claims are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term about. Accordingly, unless indicated to the contrary, the numerical parameters set forth in the present specification and attached claims are approximations that can vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be obtained by the present application. Generally the term about, as used herein when referring to a measurable value such as an amount of weight, time, dose, etc. is meant to encompass in one example variations of 20% or 10%, in another example 5%, in another example 3%, in another example 1%, and in yet another example 0.1% from the specified amount, as such variations are appropriate to perform the disclosed method.

[0071] As used in this application, the term average molecular weight refers to the relationship between the number of moles of each polymer species and the molar mass of that species. In particular, each polymer molecule may have different levels of polymerization and thus a different molar mass. The average molecular weight can be used to represent the molecular weight of a plurality of polymer molecules. Average molecular weight is typically synonymous with average molar mass. In particular, there are three major types of average molecular weight: number average molar mass, weight (mass) average molar mass, and Z-average molar mass. In the context of this application, unless otherwise specified, the average molecular weight represents either the number average molar mass or weight average molar mass of the formula. In some embodiments, the average molecular weight is the number average molar mass. In some embodiments, the average molecular weight may be used to describe a PEG component present in a lipid.

[0072] The terms comprise, have and include are open-ended linking verbs. Any forms or tenses of one or more of these verbs, such as comprises, comprising, has, having, includes and including, are also open-ended. For example, any method that comprises, has or includes one or more steps is not limited to possessing only those one or more steps and also covers other unlisted steps.

[0073] The term effective, as that term is used in the specification and/or claims, means adequate to accomplish a desired, expected, or intended result. Effective amount, Therapeutically effective amount or pharmaceutically effective amount when used in the context of treating a patient or subject with a compound means that amount of the compound which, when administered to a subject or patient for treating a disease, is sufficient to effect such treatment for the disease.

[0074] As used herein, the term IC.sub.50 refers to an inhibitory dose which is 50% of the maximum response obtained. This quantitative measure indicates how much of a particular drug or other substance (inhibitor) is needed to inhibit a given biological, biochemical or chemical process (or component of a process, i.e. an enzyme, cell, cell receptor or microorganism) by half.

[0075] An isomer of a first compound is a separate compound in which each molecule contains the same constituent atoms as the first compound, but where the configuration of those atoms in three dimensions differs.

[0076] As used herein, the term patient or subject refers to a living mammalian organism, such as a human, monkey, cow, sheep, goat, dog, cat, mouse, rat, guinea pig, or transgenic species thereof. In certain embodiments, the patient or subject is a primate (e.g., non-human primate). In certain embodiments, the patient or subject is a human. Non-limiting examples of human subjects are adults, juveniles, infants and fetuses.

[0077] The term assemble or assembled, as used herein, in context of delivery of a payload to target cell(s) generally refers to covalent or non-covalent interaction(s) or association(s), for example, such that a therapeutic or prophylactic agent be complexed with or encapsulated in a lipid composition.

[0078] As used herein, the term lipid composition generally refers to a composition comprising lipid compound(s), including but not limited to, a lipoplex, a liposome, a lipid particle. Examples of lipid compositions include suspensions, emulsions, and vesicular compositions.

[0079] As used herein, the term detectable refers to an occurrence of, or a change in, a signal that is directly or indirectly detectable either by observation or by instrumentation. Typically, a detectable response is an occurrence of a signal wherein the fluorophore is inherently fluorescent and does not produce a change in signal upon binding to a metal ion or biological compound. Alternatively, the detectable response is an optical response resulting in a change in the wavelength distribution patterns or intensity of absorbance or fluorescence or a change in light scatter, fluorescence lifetime, fluorescence polarization, or a combination of the above parameters. Other detectable responses include, for example, chemiluminescence, phosphorescence, radiation from radioisotopes, magnetic attraction, and electron density

[0080] The term potent or potency, as used herein in connection with delivery of nucleic acid editing composition(s), generally refers to a greater ability of a delivery system (e.g., a lipid composition) to achieve or bring about a desired amount, activity, or effect of a nucleic acid editing system (such as a desired level of translation, transcription, production, expression, or activity of a protein or gene) in cells (e.g., targeted cells) to any measurable extent, e.g., relative to a reference delivery system. For example, a lipid composition with a higher potency may achieve a desired therapeutic effect in a greater population of relevant cells, within a shorter response time, or that last a longer period of time.

[0081] As generally used herein pharmaceutically acceptable refers to those compounds, materials, compositions, and/or dosage forms which are, within the scope of sound medical judgment, suitable for use in contact with the tissues, organs, and/or bodily fluids of human beings and animals without excessive toxicity, irritation, allergic response, or other problems or complications commensurate with a reasonable benefit/risk ratio.

[0082] Pharmaceutically acceptable salts means salts of compounds of the present application which are pharmaceutically acceptable, as defined above, and which possess the desired pharmacological activity. Such salts include acid addition salts formed with inorganic acids such as hydrochloric acid, hydrobromic acid, sulfuric acid, nitric acid, phosphoric acid, and the like; or with organic acids such as 1,2-ethanedisulfonic acid, 2-hydroxyethanesulfonic acid, 2-naphthalenesulfonic acid, 3-phenylpropionic acid, 4,4-methylenebis(3-hydroxy-2-ene-1-carboxylic acid), 4-methylbicyclo[2.2.2]oct-2-ene-1-carboxylic acid, acetic acid, aliphatic mono- and dicarboxylic acids, aliphatic sulfuric acids, aromatic sulfuric acids, benzenesulfonic acid, benzoic acid, camphorsulfonic acid, carbonic acid, cinnamic acid, citric acid, cyclopentanepropionic acid, ethanesulfonic acid, fumaric acid, glucoheptonic acid, gluconic acid, glutamic acid, glycolic acid, heptanoic acid, hexanoic acid, hydroxynaphthoic acid, lactic acid, laurylsulfuric acid, maleic acid, malic acid, malonic acid, mandelic acid, methanesulfonic acid, muconic acid, o-(4-hydroxybenzoyl)benzoic acid, oxalic acid, p-chlorobenzenesulfonic acid, phenyl-substituted alkanoic acids, propionic acid, p-toluenesulfonic acid, pyruvic acid, salicylic acid, stearic acid, succinic acid, tartaric acid, tertiarybutylacetic acid, trimethylacetic acid, and the like. Pharmaceutically acceptable salts also include base addition salts which may be formed when acidic protons present are capable of reacting with inorganic or organic bases. Acceptable inorganic bases include sodium hydroxide, sodium carbonate, potassium hydroxide, aluminum hydroxide and calcium hydroxide. Acceptable organic bases include ethanolamine, diethanolamine, triethanolamine, tromethamine, N-methylglucamine and the like. It should be recognized that the particular anion or cation forming a part of any salt of this disclosure is not critical, so long as the salt, as a whole, is pharmacologically acceptable. Additional examples of pharmaceutically acceptable salts and their methods of preparation and use are presented in Handbook of Pharmaceutical Salts: Properties, and Use (P. H. Stahl & C. G. Wermuth eds., Verlag Helvetica Chimica Acta, 2002).

[0083] The term pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, as used herein means a pharmaceutically-acceptable material, composition or vehicle, such as a liquid or solid filler, diluent, excipient, solvent or encapsulating material, involved in carrying or transporting a chemical agent.

[0084] Prevention or preventing includes: (1) inhibiting the onset of a disease in a subject or patient which may be at risk and/or predisposed to the disease but does not yet experience or display any or all of the pathology or symptomatology of the disease, and/or (2) slowing the onset of the pathology or symptomatology of a disease in a subject or patient which may be at risk and/or predisposed to the disease but does not yet experience or display any or all of the pathology or symptomatology of the disease.

[0085] A repeat unit is the simplest structural entity of certain materials, for example, frameworks and/or polymers, whether organic, inorganic or metal-organic. In the case of a polymer chain, repeat units are linked together successively along the chain, like the beads of a necklace. For example, in polyethylene, [CH.sub.2CH.sub.2].sub.n, the repeat unit is CH.sub.2CH.sub.2. The subscript n denotes the degree of polymerization, that is, the number of repeat units linked together. When the value for n is left undefined or where n is absent, it simply designates repetition of the formula within the brackets as well as the polymeric nature of the material. The concept of a repeat unit applies equally to where the connectivity between the repeat units extends three dimensionally, such as in metal organic frameworks, modified polymers, thermosetting polymers, etc. Within the context of the dendrimer or dendron, the repeating unit may also be described as the branching unit, interior layers, or generations. Similarly, the terminating group may also be described as the surface group.

[0086] A stereoisomer or optical isomer is an isomer of a given compound in which the same atoms are bonded to the same other atoms, but where the configuration of those atoms in three dimensions differs. Enantiomers are stereoisomers of a given compound that are mirror images of each other, like left and right hands. Diastereomers are stereoisomers of a given compound that are not enantiomers. Chiral molecules contain a chiral center, also referred to as a stereocenter or stereogenic center, which is any point, though not necessarily an atom, in a molecule bearing groups such that an interchanging of any two groups leads to a stereoisomer.

[0087] In organic compounds, the chiral center is typically a carbon, phosphorus or sulfur atom, though it is also possible for other atoms to be stereocenters in organic and inorganic compounds. A molecule can have multiple stereocenters, giving it many stereoisomers. In compounds whose stereoisomerism is due to tetrahedral stereogenic centers (e.g., tetrahedral carbon), the total number of hypothetically possible stereoisomers will not exceed 2.sup.n, where n is the number of tetrahedral stereocenters. Molecules with symmetry frequently have fewer than the maximum possible number of stereoisomers. A 50:50 mixture of enantiomers is referred to as a racemic mixture. Alternatively, a mixture of enantiomers can be enantiomerically enriched so that one enantiomer is present in an amount greater than 50%. Typically, enantiomers and/or diastereomers can be resolved or separated using techniques known in the art. It is contemplated that that for any stereocenter or axis of chirality for which stereochemistry has not been defined, that stereocenter or axis of chirality can be present in its R form, S form, or as a mixture of the R and S forms, including racemic and non-racemic mixtures. As used herein, the phrase substantially free from other stereoisomers means that the composition contains 15%, more preferably 10%, even more preferably 5%, or most preferably 1% of another stereoisomer(s).

[0088] Treatment or treating includes (1) inhibiting a disease in a subject or patient experiencing or displaying the pathology or symptomatology of the disease (e.g., arresting further development of the pathology and/or symptomatology), (2) ameliorating a disease in a subject or patient that is experiencing or displaying the pathology or symptomatology of the disease (e.g., reversing the pathology and/or symptomatology), and/or (3) effecting any measurable decrease in a disease in a subject or patient that is experiencing or displaying the pathology or symptomatology of the disease.

[0089] Off-targe indel, as the term used herein, generally refers to an indel at or near a site other than the target sequence of the targeting domain of the gRNA molecule. Such sites may comprise, for example, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or more mismatch nucleotides relative to the sequence of the targeting domain of the gRNA

[0090] The above definitions supersede any conflicting definition in any reference that is incorporated by reference herein. The fact that certain terms are defined, however, should not be considered as indicative that any term that is undefined is indefinite. Rather, all terms used are believed to describe the disclosure in terms such that one of ordinary skill can appreciate the scope and practice the present application.

Nucleic Acid Editing Systems

[0091] Disclosed herein includes a composition comprising a nucleic acid editing system assembled with (e.g., encapsulated within) a lipid composition, wherein the nucleic acid editing system comprises: (i) a guide nucleic acid comprising a targeting sequence that is complementary with a target sequence of a (e.g., endogenous) (e.g., mutant) cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene or transcript; (ii) a (e.g., heterologous) polypeptide (such as one described herein) comprising a (e.g., heterologous) actuator moiety (such as endonuclease) or a (e.g., heterologous) polynucleotide (such as one described herein) encoding the polypeptide, which actuator moiety is configured to (1) form a complex with the guide nucleic acid and (2) cleave the (e.g., endogenous) (e.g., mutant) CFTR gene or transcript in a cell in a cleavage event; and (iii) a donor template nucleic acid configured to alter the (e.g., endogenous) (e.g., mutant) CFTR gene or transcript, subsequent to the cleavage event, to provide a functional CFTR gene, transcript or protein in the cell. The composition may be for enhancing an expression or activity of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) protein in a cell that exhibits a (e.g., endogenous) mutant CFTR gene or transcript.

[0092] In some embodiments, the guide nucleic acid comprises a nucleotide sequence selected from those set forth in Table A (or disclosed elsewhere herein) and complementary sequences thereof. The targeting sequence of the guide nucleic acid may comprise a nucleotide sequence selected from those set forth in Table A (or disclosed elsewhere herein) and complementary sequences thereof. The target sequence may be within a region of the CFTR gene or transcript. For example, the target sequence may be specific to a region with a mutation of CFTR relative to a corresponding wild-type couterpart. The target sequence may be within a region coding for an ATP binding domain, an intrically disordered domain, a transmembrane domain, transporter domain, a PDZ domain, or other region, domain, or motif of the CFTR protein, gene or transcript. Exon 10 is the location of the F508del mutation in human CFTR. Exon 12 is the location of the G542X mutation in mouse CFTR gene. The (e.g., heterologous) actuator moiety (such as endonuclease) may be configured to cleave a (e.g., endogenous) CFTR gene or transcript at a cleavage site flanking a mutation of CFTR.

TABLE-US-00001 TABLEA Non-limitingexamplesequence(s)ofguide(s) SEQ ID NO: Sequence 1 ACCATTAAAGAAAATATCAT SgF508Del- 1 2 TCTGTATCTATATTCATCAT SgF508Del- 2 3 GACAACACAGTTCTCTGAGAAGG SgCFTR-1

[0093] In some embodiments, the donor template nucleic acid is configured to insert one or more nucleotides into an endogenous (e.g., mutant) CFTR gene or transcript at or near a cleavage site in a cleavage event. In some embodiments, the donor template nucleic acid comprises a nucleotide sequence selected from those set forth in Table B (or disclosed elsewhere herein) and complementary sequences thereof. In some embodiments, the donor template nucleic acid comprises a 5 homology arm. In some embodiments, the donor template nucleic acid comprises a 3 homology arm. In some embodiments, the donor template nucleic acid comprises a 5 homology arm and a 3 homology arm. The donor template nucleic acid may comprise a sequence of a wild-type CFTR gene or transcript (or a fragment thereof). The donor template nucleic acid may be a (e.g., single-stranded) oligonucleotide donor (ODN). The donor template sequence may have homology to a target sequence region such that homology-based repair mechanisms may be utilized. For example, the donor template nucleic acid may have homology 3 and 5 of a target location or cleavage location. The homologous arms may anneal tothetargetsequenceandallowhomologybasedrepairtooccurandallowincorporation of the donor nucleic acid. In some embodiments, the donor template nucleic acid is configured to insert one or more nucleotides into said mutant CFTR gene or transcript at or near the cleavage site. The one or more nucleotides may correspond to a sequence of a wild-type CFTR. The insertion of the one or more nucleotides may cause the mutant CFTR gene or transcript to be repaired such that the gene or transcript corresponds to a wild-type CFTR (or non-mutant sequence). The donor template nucleic acid may allow sequence to be inserted into the gene, and may be used to correct a deletion. The donor template nucleic acid may be configured to alter the mutant CFTR gene or transcript in a homology directed repair (HDR) pathway or event(s) subsequent to the cleavage event.

TABLE-US-00002 TABLEB Non-limitingexamplesequence(s)ofHDRtemplate(s) SEQ ID NO: Sequence 4 AGTTTTCCTGGATTATGCCTGGCACCATTAAAGAAAATATCA SgF508-1- TCTTTGGTGTTTCCTATGATGAATATAGATACAGAAGC NTS-40 5 GCTTCTGTATCTATATTCATCATAGGAAACACCAAAGATGAT SgF508-1-TS- ATTTTCTTTAATGGTGCCAGGCATAATCCAGGAAAACT 40 6 AAGAATTTCATTCTGTTCTCAGTTTTCCTGGATTATGCCTGGC SgF508-1- ACCATTAAAGAAAATATCATCTTTGGTGTTTCCTATGATGAA NTS-60 TATAGATACAGAAGCGTCATCAAAGCATGCCAACT 7 ATAGGAAACACCAAAGATGATATTTTCTTTAATGGTGCCAGG SgF508-1-TS CATAATCCAGGAAAACTGAGAACAGAATGAAATTCTTCCAC TGTG 8 TTTCAATTTTGGATTGTGCATGCTAAATTTTATTTCTGGTGTT HDR-CFTR1- ATGCTTTGGATAATAGGACATCACCAAGTTTGCAGAACAAG NTS-100 ACAACACAGTTCTAGGAGAAGGTGGAGTCACACTGAGTGGA GGTCAGCGTGCAAGGATTTCTTTAGCAAGGTAAATATTTAAC TGTTGGTCTTGTGAGCACTTGCTGTAAATACTA 9 TGCTAAATTTTATTTCTGGTGTTATGCTTTGGATAATAGGACA HDR-CFTR1- TCACCAAGTTTGCAGAACAAGACAACACAGTTCTAGGAGAA NTS-80 GGTGGAGTCACACTGAGTGGAGGTCAGCGTGCAAGGATTTC TTTAGCAAGGTAAATATTTAACTGTTGGTCTTGTG 10 GTTATGCTTTGGATAATAGGACATCACCAAGTTTGCAGAACA HDR-CFTR1- AGACAACACAGTTCTAGGAGAAGGTGGAGTCACACTGAGTG NTS-60 GAGGTCAGCGTGCAAGGATTTCTTTAGCAAGGTAAAT 11 ACATCACCAAGTTTGCAGAACAAGACAACACAGTTCTAGGA HDR-CFTR1- GAAGGTGGAGTCACACTGAGTGGAGGTCAGCGTGCAAGG NTS-40 12 CCTTGCACGCTGACCTCCACTCAGTGTGACTCCACCTTCTCCT HDR-CFTR1- AGAACTGTGTTGTCTTGTTCTGCAAACTTGGTGATGT TS-40 13 GTTTGCAGAACAAGACAACACAGTTCTAGGAGAAGGTGGAG HDR-CFTR1- TCACACTGAGTGGAGGTCA NTS-30

[0094] In some embodiments of the composition or nucleic acid editing system, (ii) is a messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) encoding the polypeptide comprising the (e.g., heterologous) actuator moiety (such as endonuclease). In some embodiments of the composition or nucleic acid editing system, (ii) is the polypeptide comprising the (e.g., heterologous) actuator moiety (such as endonuclease). The (e.g., heterologous) actuator moiety (such as endonuclease) may be a CRISPR-associated (Cas) polypeptide or a modification thereof. The (e.g., heterologous) actuator moiety (such as endonuclease) may be a Cas9, Cas12, Cas13, Cpf1 (or Cas12a), C2C1, C2C2 (or Cas13a), Cas13b, Cas13c, Cas13d, Cas14, C2C3, Cas1, Cas1B, Cas2, Cas3, Cas4, Cas5, Cas5e (CasD), Cas6, Cas6e, Cas6f, Cas7, Cas8a, Cas8a1, Cas8a2, Cas8b, Cas8c, Csn1, Csx12, Cas10, Cas10d, CaslO, CaslOd, CasF, CasG, CasH, Csy1, Csy2, Csy3, Cse1 (CasA), Cse2 (CasB), Cse3 (CasE), Cse4 (CasC), Csc1, Csc2, Csa5, Csn2, Csm2, Csm3, Csm4, Csm5, Csm6, Cmr1, Cmr3, Cmr4, Cmr5, Cmr6, Csb1, Csb2, Csb3, Csx17, Csx14, CsxlO, Csx16, CsaX, Csx3, Csx1, Csx15, Csf1, Csf2, Csf3, Csf4, or Cul966; any derivative thereof; any variant thereof; or any fragment thereof. The (e.g., heterologous) actuator moiety (such as endonuclease) may be Cas9.

TABLE-US-00003 TABLEC Non-limitingexamplesequence(s)ofpolynucleotide(s)encodingactuatormoiety SEQ ID NO Sequence 14 ATGGCCCCAAAGAAGAAGCGGAAGGTCGGTATCCACGGAGTCCCAG Cas9 CAGCCGACAAGAAGTACAGCATCGGCCTGGACATCGGCACCAACTC mRNA TGTGGGCTGGGCCGTGATCACCGACGAGTACAAGGTGCCCAGCAAG AAATTCAAGGTGCTGGGCAACACCGACCGGCACAGCATCAAGAAGA ACCTGATCGGAGCCCTGCTGTTCGACAGCGGCGAAACAGCCGAGGC CACCCGGCTGAAGAGAACCGCCAGAAGAAGATACACCAGACGGAA GAACCGGATCTGCTATCTGCAAGAGATCTTCAGCAACGAGATGGCC AAGGTGGACGACAGCTTCTTCCACAGACTGGAAGAGTCCTTCCTGGT GGAAGAGGATAAGAAGCACGAGCGGCACCCCATCTTCGGCAACATC GTGGACGAGGTGGCCTACCACGAGAAGTACCCCACCATCTACCACC TGAGAAAGAAACTGGTGGACAGCACCGACAAGGCCGACCTGCGGCT GATCTATCTGGCCCTGGCCCACATGATCAAGTTCCGGGGCCACTTCC TGATCGAGGGCGACCTGAACCCCGACAACAGCGACGTGGACAAGCT GTTCATCCAGCTGGTGCAGACCTACAACCAGCTGTTCGAGGAAAAC CCCATCAACGCCAGCGGCGTGGACGCCAAGGCCATCCTGTCTGCCA GACTGAGCAAGAGCAGACGGCTGGAAAATCTGATCGCCCAGCTGCC CGGCGAGAAGAAGAATGGCCTGTTCGGAAACCTGATTGCCCTGAGC CTGGGCCTGACCCCCAACTTCAAGAGCAACTTCGACCTGGCCGAGG ATGCCAAACTGCAGCTGAGCAAGGACACCTACGACGACGACCTGGA CAACCTGCTGGCCCAGATCGGCGACCAGTACGCCGACCTGTTTCTGG CCGCCAAGAACCTGTCCGACGCCATCCTGCTGAGCGACATCCTGAG AGTGAACACCGAGATCACCAAGGCCCCCCTGAGCGCCTCTATGATC AAGAGATACGACGAGCACCACCAGGACCTGACCCTGCTGAAAGCTC TCGTGCGGCAGCAGCTGCCTGAGAAGTACAAAGAGATTTTCTTCGA CCAGAGCAAGAACGGCTACGCCGGCTACATTGACGGCGGAGCCAGC CAGGAAGAGTTCTACAAGTTCATCAAGCCCATCCTGGAAAAGATGG ACGGCACCGAGGAACTGCTCGTGAAGCTGAACAGAGAGGACCTGCT GCGGAAGCAGCGGACCTTCGACAACGGCAGCATCCCCCACCAGATC CACCTGGGAGAGCTGCACGCCATTCTGCGGCGGCAGGAAGATTTTT ACCCATTCCTGAAGGACAACCGGGAAAAGATCGAGAAGATCCTGAC CTTCCGCATCCCCTACTACGTGGGCCCTCTGGCCAGGGGAAACAGCA GATTCGCCTGGATGACCAGAAAGAGCGAGGAAACCATCACCCCCTG GAACTTCGAGGAAGTGGTGGACAAGGGCGCTTCCGCCCAGAGCTTC ATCGAGCGGATGACCAACTTCGATAAGAACCTGCCCAACGAGAAGG TGCTGCCCAAGCACAGCCTGCTGTACGAGTACTTCACCGTGTATAAC GAGCTGACCAAAGTGAAATACGTGACCGAGGGAATGAGAAAGCCC GCCTTCCTGAGCGGCGAGCAGAAAAAGGCCATCGTGGACCTGCTGT TCAAGACCAACCGGAAAGTGACCGTGAAGCAGCTGAAAGAGGACT ACTTCAAGAAAATCGAGTGCTTCGACTCCGTGGAAATCTCCGGCGTG GAAGATCGGTTCAACGCCTCCCTGGGCACATACCACGATCTGCTGA AAATTATCAAGGACAAGGACTTCCTGGACAATGAGGAAAACGAGGA CATTCTGGAAGATATCGTGCTGACCCTGACACTGTTTGAGGACAGAG AGATGATCGAGGAACGGCTGAAAACCTATGCCCACCTGTTCGACGA CAAAGTGATGAAGCAGCTGAAGCGGCGGAGATACACCGGCTGGGG CAGGCTGAGCCGGAAGCTGATCAACGGCATCCGGGACAAGCAGTCC GGCAAGACAATCCTGGATTTCCTGAAGTCCGACGGCTTCGCCAACA GAAACTTCATGCAGCTGATCCACGACGACAGCCTGACCTTTAAAGA GGACATCCAGAAAGCCCAGGTGTCCGGCCAGGGCGATAGCCTGCAC GAGCACATTGCCAATCTGGCCGGCAGCCCCGCCATTAAGAAGGGCA TCCTGCAGACAGTGAAGGTGGTGGACGAGCTCGTGAAAGTGATGGG CCGGCACAAGCCCGAGAACATCGTGATCGAAATGGCCAGAGAGAAC CAGACCACCCAGAAGGGACAGAAGAACAGCCGCGAGAGAATGAAG CGGATCGAAGAGGGCATCAAAGAGCTGGGCAGCCAGATCCTGAAA GAACACCCCGTGGAAAACACCCAGCTGCAGAACGAGAAGCTGTACC TGTACTACCTGCAGAATGGGCGGGATATGTACGTGGACCAGGAACT GGACATCAACCGGCTGTCCGACTACGATGTGGACCATATCGTGCCTC AGAGCTTTCTGAAGGACGACTCCATCGACAACAAGGTGCTGACCAG AAGCGACAAGAACCGGGGCAAGAGCGACAACGTGCCCTCCGAAGA GGTCGTGAAGAAGATGAAGAACTACTGGCGGCAGCTGCTGAACGCC AAGCTGATTACCCAGAGAAAGTTCGACAATCTGACCAAGGCCGAGA GAGGCGGCCTGAGCGAACTGGATAAGGCCGGCTTCATCAAGAGACA GCTGGTGGAAACCCGGCAGATCACAAAGCACGTGGCACAGATCCTG GACTCCCGGATGAACACTAAGTACGACGAGAATGACAAGCTGATCC GGGAAGTGAAAGTGATCACCCTGAAGTCCAAGCTGGTGTCCGATTT CCGGAAGGATTTCCAGTTTTACAAAGTGCGCGAGATCAACAACTAC CACCACGCCCACGACGCCTACCTGAACGCCGTCGTGGGAACCGCCC TGATCAAAAAGTACCCTAAGCTGGAAAGCGAGTTCGTGTACGGCGA CTACAAGGTGTACGACGTGCGGAAGATGATCGCCAAGAGCGAGCAG GAAATCGGCAAGGCTACCGCCAAGTACTTCTTCTACAGCAACATCAT GAACTTTTTCAAGACCGAGATTACCCTGGCCAACGGCGAGATCCGG AAGCGGCCTCTGATCGAGACAAACGGCGAAACCGGGGAGATCGTGT GGGATAAGGGCCGGGATTTTGCCACCGTGCGGAAAGTGCTGAGCAT GCCCCAAGTGAATATCGTGAAAAAGACCGAGGTGCAGACAGGCGGC TTCAGCAAAGAGTCTATCCTGCCCAAGAGGAACAGCGATAAGCTGA TCGCCAGAAAGAAGGACTGGGACCCTAAGAAGTACGGCGGCTTCGA CAGCCCCACCGTGGCCTATTCTGTGCTGGTGGTGGCCAAAGTGGAA AAGGGCAAGTCCAAGAAACTGAAGAGTGTGAAAGAGCTGCTGGGG ATCACCATCATGGAAAGAAGCAGCTTCGAGAAGAATCCCATCGACT TTCTGGAAGCCAAGGGCTACAAAGAAGTGAAAAAGGACCTGATCAT CAAGCTGCCTAAGTACTCCCTGTTCGAGCTGGAAAACGGCCGGAAG AGAATGCTGGCCTCTGCCGGCGAACTGCAGAAGGGAAACGAACTGG CCCTGCCCTCCAAATATGTGAACTTCCTGTACCTGGCCAGCCACTAT GAGAAGCTGAAGGGCTCCCCCGAGGATAATGAGCAGAAACAGCTGT TTGTGGAACAGCACAAGCACTACCTGGACGAGATCATCGAGCAGAT CAGCGAGTTCTCCAAGAGAGTGATCCTGGCCGACGCTAATCTGGAC AAAGTGCTGTCCGCCTACAACAAGCACCGGGATAAGCCCATCAGAG AGCAGGCCGAGAATATCATCCACCTGTTTACCCTGACCAATCTGGGA GCCCCTGCCGCCTTCAAGTACTTTGACACCACCATCGACCGGAAGAG GTACACCAGCACCAAAGAGGTGCTGGACGCCACCCTGATCCACCAG AGCATCACCGGCCTGTACGAGACACGGATCGACCTGTCTCAGCTGG GAGGCGACAAAAGGCCGGCGGCCACGAAAAAGGCCGGCCAGGCAA AAAAGAAAAAGTAA

[0095] In some embodiments of the composition or nucleic acid editing system, (i) and (iii) are present on two different molecules. In some embodiments of the composition or nucleic acid editing system, (i), (ii), and (iii) are present on three different molecules. In some embodiments of the composition or nucleic acid editing system, at least two of (i), (ii) and (iii) are present on one molecule.

[0096] In some embodiments of the composition or nucleic acid editing system, (i) and (ii) are present at a molar ratio that is not 1:1. In some embodiments, (i) and (ii) are present at a molar or weight ratio less than 1:1 (indicating that the mole(s) of (i) present in the composition or nucleic acid editing system is/are less than the mole(s) of (ii) present in the composition or nucleic acid editing system). In some embodiments, (i) and (ii) are present at a molar or weight ratio of at most about 1:1, 1:2, 1:3, 1:4, 1:5, 1:6, 1:7, 1:8, 1:9, 1:10, 1:11, 1:12, 1:13, 1:14, 1:15, 1:16, 1:17, 1:18, 1:19, 1:20, 1:21, 1:22, 1:23, 1:24, 1:25, 1:26, 1:27, 1:28, 1:29, or 1:30. In some embodiments, (i) and (ii) are present at a molar or weight ratio of at least about 1:30, 1:29, 1:28, 1:27, 1:26, 1:25, 1:24, 1:23, 1:22, 1:21, 1:20, 1:19, 1:18, 1:17, 1:16, 1:15, 1:14, 1:13, 1:12, 1:11, 1:10, 1:9, 1:8, 1:7, 1:6, 1:5, 1:4, 1:3, 1:2, or 1:1. In some embodiments, (i) and (ii) are present at a molar or weight ratio of about 1:1, 1:2, 1:3, 1:4, 1:5, 1:6, 1:7, 1:8, 1:9, 1:10, 1:11, 1:12, 1:13, 1:14, 1:15, 1:16, 1:17, 1:18, 1:19, 1:20, 1:21, 1:22, 1:23, 1:24, 1:25, 1:26, 1:27, 1:28, 1:29, or 1:30, or a range between any two of the foregoing values.

[0097] In some embodiments of the composition or nucleic acid editing system, (ii) and (i) are present at a molar or weight ratio that is not 1:1. In some embodiments, (ii) and (i) are present at a molar or weight ratio less than 1:1 (indicating that the mole(s) of (ii) present in the composition or nucleic acid editing system is/are less than the mole(s) of (i) present in the composition or nucleic acid editing system). In some embodiments, (ii) and (i) are present at a molar or weight ratio of at most about 1:1, 1:2, 1:3, 1:4, 1:5, 1:6, 1:7, 1:8, 1:9, 1:10, 1:11, 1:12, 1:13, 1:14, 1:15, 1:16, 1:17, 1:18, 1:19, 1:20, 1:21, 1:22, 1:23, 1:24, 1:25, 1:26, 1:27, 1:28, 1:29, or 1:30. In some embodiments, (ii) and (i) are present at a molar or weight ratio of at least about 1:30, 1:29, 1:28, 1:27, 1:26, 1:25, 1:24, 1:23, 1:22, 1:21, 1:20, 1:19, 1:18, 1:17, 1:16, 1:15, 1:14, 1:13, 1:12, 1:11, 1:10, 1:9, 1:8, 1:7, 1:6, 1:5, 1:4, 1:3, 1:2, or 1:1. In some embodiments, (ii) and (i) are present at a molar or weight ratio of about 1:1, 1:2, 1:3, 1:4, 1:5, 1:6, 1:7, 1:8, 1:9, 1:10, 1:11, 1:12, 1:13, 1:14, 1:15, 1:16, 1:17, 1:18, 1:19, 1:20, 1:21, 1:22, 1:23, 1:24, 1:25, 1:26, 1:27, 1:28, 1:29, or 1:30, or a range between any two of the foregoing values.

[0098] In some embodiments of the composition or nucleic acid editing system, (i) and (iii) are present at a molar or weight ratio that is not 1:1. In some embodiments, (i) and (iii) are present at a molar or weight ratio less than 1:1 (indicating that the mole(s) of (i) present in the composition or nucleic acid editing system is/are less than the mole(s) of (iii) present in the composition or nucleic acid editing system). In some embodiments, (i) and (iii) are present at a molar or weight ratio of at most about 1:1, 1:2, 1:3, 1:4, 1:5, 1:6, 1:7, 1:8, 1:9, 1:10, 1:11, 1:12, 1:13, 1:14, 1:15, 1:16, 1:17, 1:18, 1:19, 1:20, 1:21, 1:22, 1:23, 1:24, 1:25, 1:26, 1:27, 1:28, 1:29, or 1:30. In some embodiments, (i) and (iii) are present at a molar or weight ratio of at least about 1:30, 1:29, 1:28, 1:27, 1:26, 1:25, 1:24, 1:23, 1:22, 1:21, 1:20, 1:19, 1:18, 1:17, 1:16, 1:15, 1:14, 1:13, 1:12, 1:11, 1:10, 1:9, 1:8, 1:7, 1:6, 1:5, 1:4, 1:3, 1:2, or 1:1. In some embodiments, (i) and (iii) are present at a molar or weight ratio of about 1:1, 1:2, 1:3, 1:4, 1:5, 1:6, 1:7, 1:8, 1:9, 1:10, 1:11, 1:12, 1:13, 1:14, 1:15, 1:16, 1:17, 1:18, 1:19, 1:20, 1:21, 1:22, 1:23, 1:24, 1:25, 1:26, 1:27, 1:28, 1:29, or 1:30, or a range between any two of the foregoing values.

[0099] In some embodiments of the composition or nucleic acid editing system, (iii) and (i) are present at a molar or weight ratio that is not 1:1. In some embodiments, (iii) and (i) are present at a molar or weight ratio less than 1:1 (indicating that the mole(s) of (iii) present in the composition or nucleic acid editing system is/are less than the mole(s) of (i) present in the composition or nucleic acid editing system). In some embodiments, (iii) and (i) are present at a molar or weight ratio of at most about 1:1, 1:2, 1:3, 1:4, 1:5, 1:6, 1:7, 1:8, 1:9, 1:10, 1:11, 1:12, 1:13, 1:14, 1:15, 1:16, 1:17, 1:18, 1:19, 1:20, 1:21, 1:22, 1:23, 1:24, 1:25, 1:26, 1:27, 1:28, 1:29, or 1:30. In some embodiments, (iii) and (i) are present at a molar or weight ratio of at least about 1:30, 1:29, 1:28, 1:27, 1:26, 1:25, 1:24, 1:23, 1:22, 1:21, 1:20, 1:19, 1:18, 1:17, 1:16, 1:15, 1:14, 1:13, 1:12, 1:11, 1:10, 1:9, 1:8, 1:7, 1:6, 1:5, 1:4, 1:3, 1:2, or 1:1. In some embodiments, (iii) and (i) are present at a molar or weight ratio of about 1:1, 1:2, 1:3, 1:4, 1:5, 1:6, 1:7, 1:8, 1:9, 1:10, 1:11, 1:12, 1:13, 1:14, 1:15, 1:16, 1:17, 1:18, 1:19, 1:20, 1:21, 1:22, 1:23, 1:24, 1:25, 1:26, 1:27, 1:28, 1:29, or 1:30, or a range between any two of the foregoing values.

[0100] In some embodiments of the composition or nucleic acid editing system, (ii) and (iii) are present at a molar or weight ratio that is not 1:1. In some embodiments, (ii) and (iii) are present at a molar or weight ratio less than 1:1 (indicating that the mole(s) of (ii) present in the composition or nucleic acid editing system is/are less than the mole(s) of (iii) present in the composition or nucleic acid editing system). In some embodiments, (ii) and (iii) are present at a molar or weight ratio of at most about 1:1, 1:2, 1:3, 1:4, 1:5, 1:6, 1:7, 1:8, 1:9, 1:10, 1:11, 1:12, 1:13, 1:14, 1:15, 1:16, 1:17, 1:18, 1:19, 1:20, 1:21, 1:22, 1:23, 1:24, 1:25, 1:26, 1:27, 1:28, 1:29, or 1:30. In some embodiments, (ii) and (iii) are present at a molar or weight ratio of at least about 1:30, 1:29, 1:28, 1:27, 1:26, 1:25, 1:24, 1:23, 1:22, 1:21, 1:20, 1:19, 1:18, 1:17, 1:16, 1:15, 1:14, 1:13, 1:12, 1:11, 1:10, 1:9, 1:8, 1:7, 1:6, 1:5, 1:4, 1:3, 1:2, or 1:1. In some embodiments, (ii) and (iii) are present at a molar or weight ratio of about 1:1, 1:2, 1:3, 1:4, 1:5, 1:6, 1:7, 1:8, 1:9, 1:10, 1:11, 1:12, 1:13, 1:14, 1:15, 1:16, 1:17, 1:18, 1:19, 1:20, 1:21, 1:22, 1:23, 1:24, 1:25, 1:26, 1:27, 1:28, 1:29, or 1:30, or a range between any two of the foregoing values.

[0101] In some embodiments of the composition or nucleic acid editing system, (iii) and (ii) are present at a molar or weight ratio that is not 1:1. In some embodiments, (iii) and (ii) are present at a molar or weight ratio less than 1:1 (indicating that the mole(s) of (iii) present in the composition or nucleic acid editing system is/are less than the mole(s) of (ii) present in the composition or nucleic acid editing system). In some embodiments, (iii) and (ii) are present at a molar or weight ratio of at most about 1:1, 1:2, 1:3, 1:4, 1:5, 1:6, 1:7, 1:8, 1:9, 1:10, 1:11, 1:12, 1:13, 1:14, 1:15, 1:16, 1:17, 1:18, 1:19, 1:20, 1:21, 1:22, 1:23, 1:24, 1:25, 1:26, 1:27, 1:28, 1:29, or 1:30. In some embodiments, (iii) and (ii) are present at a molar or weight ratio of at least about 1:30, 1:29, 1:28, 1:27, 1:26, 1:25, 1:24, 1:23, 1:22, 1:21, 1:20, 1:19, 1:18, 1:17, 1:16, 1:15, 1:14, 1:13, 1:12, 1:11, 1:10, 1:9, 1:8, 1:7, 1:6, 1:5, 1:4, 1:3, 1:2, or 1:1. In some embodiments, (iii) and (ii) are present at a molar or weight ratio of about 1:1, 1:2, 1:3, 1:4, 1:5, 1:6, 1:7, 1:8, 1:9, 1:10, 1:11, 1:12, 1:13, 1:14, 1:15, 1:16, 1:17, 1:18, 1:19, 1:20, 1:21, 1:22, 1:23, 1:24, 1:25, 1:26, 1:27, 1:28, 1:29, or 1:30, or a range between any two of the foregoing values.

[0102] In some embodiments, in the cleavage event, the heterologous actuator moiety (such as endonuclease) cleaves the (e.g., mutant) CFTR gene or transcript at a cleavage site flanking said mutation. The cleavage event may excise a portion of the CFTR gene comprising a mutation. For example, a mution may be an insertion and the cleavage may remover the insertion. The clevage event may make a cleavage to the backbone of a nuclease, without excising a nucleotide. The mutant CFTR gene or transcript may comprise a mutation relative to a corresponding wild type counterpart. The CFTR mutation may be associated with cystic fibrosis, hereditary emphysema, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The mutation may be selected from the group consisting of F508del, G542X, or combinations thereof. The mutant CFTR gene or transcript may comprise a (e.g., nonsense or frameshift) mutation in one or more of exons 9-27 (e.g., exon 10, exon 12) of the CFTR gene.

Polynucleotides

[0103] In some embodiments, the polynucleotide encodes at least one guide polynucleotide, such as guide RNA (gRNA) or guide DNA (gDNA), for complexing with a guide RNA guided nuclease described herein. In some embodiments, the polynucleotide encodes at least one guide polynucleotide guided heterologous nuclease. The nuclease may be an actuator moiety (such as endonuclease). Non-limiting example of the guide polynucleotide guided heterologous endonuclease may be selected from CRISPR-associated (Cas) proteins or Cas nucleases including type I CRISPR-associated (Cas) polypeptides, type II CRISPR-associated (Cas) polypeptides, type III CRISPR-associated (Cas) polypeptides, type IV CRISPR-associated (Cas) polypeptides, type V CRISPR-associated (Cas) polypeptides, and type VI CRISPR-associated (Cas) polypeptides; zinc finger nucleases (ZFN); transcription activator-like effector nucleases (TALEN); meganucleases; RNA-binding proteins (RBP); CRISPR-associated RNA binding proteins; recombinases; flippases; transposases; Argonaute (Ago) proteins (e.g., prokaryotic Argonaute (pAgo), archaeal Argonaute (aAgo), eukaryotic Argonaute (eAgo), and Natronobacterium gregoryi Argonaute (NgAgo)); Adenosine deaminases acting on RNA (ADAR); CIRT, PUF, homing endonuclease, or any functional fragment thereof, any derivative thereof; any variant thereof; and any fragment thereof.

[0104] Some embodiments of the composition or nucleic acid editing system provided herein comprise a heterologous polypeptide comprising an actuator moiety. The actuator moiety can be configured to complex with a target polynucleotide corresponding to a target gene. In some embodiments, administration of the composition or nucleic acid editing system results in a modified expression or activity of the target gene. The modified expression or activity of the target gene can be detectable, for example, in at least about 1% (e.g., at least about 2%, 5%, 10%, 15%, or 20%) cells (e.g., lung cells, such as lung basal cells) of the subject. The composition or nucleic acid editing system may comprise a heterologous polynucleotide encoding an actuator moiety. The actuator moiety may be configured to complex with a target polynucleotide corresponding to a target gene. The heterologous polynucleotide may encode a guide polynucleotide configured to direct the actuator moiety to the target polynucleotide. The actuator moiety may comprise a heterologous endonuclease or a fragment thereof (e.g., directed by a guide polynucleotide to specifically bind the target polynucleotide). The heterologous endonuclease may be (1) part of a ribonucleoprotein (RNP) and (2) complexed with the guide polynucleotide. The heterologous endonuclease may be part of a clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated (Cas) protein complex. The heterologous endonuclease may be a clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-associated (Cas) endonuclease. The heterologous endonuclease may comprise a deactivated endonuclease. The deactivated endonuclease may be fused to a regulatory moiety. The regulatory moiety may comprise a transcription activator, a transcription repressor, an epigenetic modifier, or a fragment thereof.

[0105] In some embodiments, the polynucleotide encodes at least one guide polynucleotide (such as guide RNA (gRNA) or guide DNA (gDNA)) guided heterologous endonuclease. In some embodiments, the polynucleotide encodes at least one guide polynucleotide and at least one heterologous endonuclease, where the guide polynucleotide can be complexed with and guides the at least one heterologous endonuclease to cleave a genetic locus of any one of the genes described herein. In some embodiments, the polynucleotide encodes at least one guide polynucleotide guided heterologous endonuclease such as Cas9, Cas12, Cas13, Cpf1 (or Cas12a), C2C1, C2C2 (or Cas13a), Cas13b, Cas13c, Cas13d, Cas14, C2C3, Cas1, Cas1B, Cas2, Cas3, Cas4, Cas5, Cas5e (CasD), Cas6, Cas6e, Cas6f, Cas7, Cas8a, Cas8a1, Cas8a2, Cas8b, Cas8c, Csn1, Csx12, Cas10, Cas10d, Cas10, CaslOd, CasF, CasG, CasH, Csy1, Csy2, Csy3, Cse1 (CasA), Cse2 (CasB), Cse3 (CasE), Cse4 (CasC), Csc1, Csc2, Csa5, Csn2, Csm2, Csm3, Csm4, Csm5, Csm6, Cmr1, Cmr3, Cmr4, Cmr5, Cmr6, Csb1, Csb2, Csb3, Csx17, Csx14, CsxlO, Csx16, CsaX, Csx3, Csx1, Csx15, Csf1, Csf2, Csf3, Csf4, or Cul966; any derivative thereof; any variant thereof; or any fragment thereof. In some embodiments, Cas13 can include, but are not limited to, Cas13a, Cas13b, Cas13c, and Cas13d (e.g., CasRx).

[0106] In some embodiments, the heterologous endonuclease comprises a deactivated endonuclease, optionally fused to a regulatory moiety, such as an epigenetic modifier to remodel the epigenome that mediates the expression of the selected genes of interest. In some cases, the epigenetic modifier can include methyltransferase, demethylase, dismutase, an alkylating enzyme, depurinase, oxidase, photolyase, integrase, transposase, recombinase, polymerase, ligase, helicase, glycosylase, acetyltransferase, deacetylase, kinase, phosphatase, ubiquitin-activating enzymes, ubiquitin-conjugating enzymes, ubiquitin ligase, deubiquitinating enzyme, adenylate-forming enzyme, AMPylator, de-AMPylator, SUMOylating enzyme, deSUMOylating enzyme, ribosylase, deribosylase, N-myristoyltransferase, chromotine remodeling enzyme, protease, oxidoreductase, transferase, hydrolase, lyase, isomerase, synthase, synthetase, or demyristoylation enzyme. In some instances, the epigenetic modifier can comprise one or more selected from the group consisting of p300, TET1, LSD1, HDAC1, HDAC8, HDAC4, HDAC11, HDT1, SIRT3, HST2, CobB, SIRT5, SIR2A, SIRT6, NUE, vSET, SUV39H1, DIM5, KYP, SUVR4, Set4, Set1, SETD8, and TgSET8.

[0107] In some embodiments, the polynucleotide encodes a guide polynucleotide (such as guide RNA (gRNA) or guide DNA (gDNA)) that is at least partially complementary to the genomic region of a gene, where upon binding of the guide polynucleotide to the gene the guide polynucleotide recruits the guide polynucleotide guided nuclease to cleave and genetically modified the region. For example, a CFTR gene may be modified by the guide polynucleotide guided nuclease.

[0108] In some embodiments, the polynucleotides of the present application comprise at least one chemical modifications of the one or more nucleotides. In some embodiments, the chemical modification increases specificity of the guide polynucleotide (such as guide RNA (gRNA) or guide DNA (gDNA)) binding to a complementary genomic locus (e.g., the genomic locus of any one of the genes described herein). In some embodiments, the at least one chemical modification increases resistance to nuclease digestion, when then polynucleotide is administered to a subject in need thereof. In some embodiments, the at least one chemical modification decreases immunogenicity, when then polynucleotide is administered to a subject in need thereof. Such chemical modification may have desirable properties, such as enhanced resistance to nuclease digestion or increased binding affinity with a target genomic locus relative to a polynucleotide without the at least one chemical modification.

[0109] In some embodiments, the at least one chemical modification comprises modification to sugar moiety. In some embodiments, modified sugar moieties are substituted sugar moieties comprising one or more non-bridging sugar substituent, including but not limited to substituents at the 2 and/or 5 positions. Examples of sugar substituents suitable for the 2-position, include, but are not limited to: 2-F, 2-OCH.sub.3 (OMe or O-methyl), and 2-O(CH.sub.2).sub.2OCH.sub.3 (MOE). In certain embodiments, sugar substituents at the 2 position is selected from allyl, amino, azido, thio, 0-allyl, 0-C.sub.1-C.sub.10 alkyl, OC.sub.1-C.sub.10 substituted alkyl; OCF.sub.3, O(CH.sub.2).sub.2SCH.sub.3, O(CH.sub.2).sub.2ON(R.sub.m)(R.sub.n), and OCH.sub.2C(O)N(R.sub.m)(R.sub.n), where each Rm and Rn is, independently, H or substituted or unsubstituted C.sub.1-C.sub.10 alkyl. Examples of sugar substituents at the 5-position, include, but are not limited to: 5-methyl (R or S); 5-vinyl, and 5-methoxy. In some embodiments, substituted sugars comprise more than one non-bridging sugar substituent, for example, T-F-5-methyl sugar moieties.

[0110] Nucleosides comprising 2-substituted sugar moieties are referred to as 2-substituted nucleosides. In some embodiments, a 2-substituted nucleoside comprises a 2-substituent group selected from halo, allyl, amino, azido, SH, CN, OCN, CF.sub.3, OCF.sub.3, O, S, or N(R.sub.m)-alkyl; O, S, or N(R.sub.m)-alkenyl; O, S or N(R.sub.m)-alkynyl; O-alkylenyl-O-alkyl, alkynyl, alkaryl, aralkyl, O-alkaryl, O-aralkyl, O(CH.sub.2).sub.2SCH.sub.3, O(CH.sub.2).sub.2ON(R.sub.m)(R.sub.n) or OCH.sub.2C(O)N(R.sub.m)(R.sub.n), where each R.sub.m and R.sub.n is, independently, H, an amino protecting group or substituted or unsubstituted C.sub.1-C.sub.10 alkyl. These 2-substituent groups can be further substituted with one or more substituent groups independently selected from hydroxyl, amino, alkoxy, carboxy, benzyl, phenyl, nitro (NO.sub.2), thiol, thioalkoxy (S-alkyl), halogen, alkyl, aryl, alkenyl and alkynyl.

[0111] In some embodiments, a 2-substituted nucleoside comprises a 2-substituent group selected from F, NH.sub.2, N.sub.3, OCF.sub.3, OCH.sub.3, O(CH.sub.2).sub.3NH.sub.2, CH.sub.2CHCH.sub.2, OCH.sub.2CHCH.sub.2, OCH.sub.2CH.sub.2OCH.sub.3, O(CH.sub.2).sub.2SCH.sub.3, O(CH.sub.2).sub.2ON(R.sub.m)(R.sub.n), O(CH.sub.2).sub.2O(CH.sub.2).sub.2N(CH.sub.3).sub.2, and N-substituted acetamide (OCH.sub.2C(O)N(R.sub.m)(R.sub.n) where each R.sub.m and R.sub.n is, independently, H, an amino protecting group or substituted or unsubstituted C.sub.1-C.sub.10 alkyl.

[0112] In some embodiments, a 2-substituted nucleoside comprises a sugar moiety comprising a 2-substituent group selected from F, OCF.sub.3, OCH.sub.3, OCH.sub.2CH.sub.2OCH.sub.3, O(CH.sub.2).sub.2SCH.sub.3, O(CH.sub.2).sub.2ON(CH.sub.3).sub.2, O(CH.sub.2).sub.2O(CH.sub.2).sub.2N(CH.sub.3).sub.2, and OCH.sub.2C(O)N(H)CH.sub.3.

[0113] In some embodiments, a 2-substituted nucleoside comprises a sugar moiety comprising a 2-substituent group selected from F, OCH.sub.3, and OCH.sub.2CH.sub.2OCH.sub.3.

[0114] Certain modified sugar moieties comprise a bridging sugar substituent that forms a second ring resulting in a bicyclic sugar moiety. In some such embodiments, the bicyclic sugar moiety comprises a bridge between the 4 and the 2 furanose ring atoms.

[0115] Examples of such 4 to 2 sugar substituents, include, but are not limited to: [C(R.sub.a)(R.sub.b)], [C(R.sub.a)(R.sub.b)].sub.nO, C(R.sub.aR.sub.b)N(R)O or, C(R.sub.aR.sub.b)ON(R); 4-CH.sub.2-2, 4-(CH.sub.2).sub.2-2, 4-(CH.sub.2)O-2 (LNA); 4-(CH.sub.2)S-2; 4-(CH.sub.2).sub.2O-2 (ENA); 4-CH(CH.sub.3)O-2 (cEt) and 4-CH(CH.sub.2OCH.sub.3)O-2, and analogs thereof; 4-C(CH.sub.3)(CH.sub.3)O-2 and analogs thereof; 4-CH.sub.2N(OCH.sub.3)-2 and analogs thereof; 4-CH.sub.2ON(CH.sub.3)-2; 4-CH.sub.2ON(R)-2, and 4-CH.sub.2N(R)O-2-, wherein each R is, independently, H, a protecting group, or C.sub.1-C.sub.12 alkyl; 4-CH.sub.2N(R)O-2, wherein R is H, C.sub.1-C.sub.12 alkyl, or a protecting group; 4-CH.sub.2C(H)(CH.sub.3)-2; and 4-CH.sub.2C(CH.sub.2)-2 and analogs thereof.

[0116] In some embodiments, such 4 to 2 bridges independently comprise from 1 to 4 linked groups independently selected from [C(R.sub.a)(R.sub.b)], C(R.sub.a)C(R.sub.b), C(R.sub.a)N, C(NR.sub.a), C(O), C(S), O, Si(R.sub.a).sub.2, S(O).sub.r, and N(R.sub.a); wherein: x is 0, 1, or 2; n is 1, 2, 3, or 4; each R.sub.a and R.sub.b is, independently, H, a protecting group, hydroxyl, C.sub.1-C.sub.12 alkyl, substituted C.sub.1-C.sub.12 alkyl, C.sub.2-C.sub.12 alkenyl, substituted C.sub.2-C.sub.12 alkenyl, C.sub.2-C.sub.12 alkynyl, substituted C.sub.2-C.sub.12 alkynyl, C.sub.5-C.sub.20 aryl, substituted C.sub.5-C.sub.20 aryl, heterocycle radical, substituted heterocycle radical, heteroaryl, substituted heteroaryl, C.sub.5-C.sub.7 alicyclic radical, substituted C.sub.5-C.sub.7 alicyclic radical, halogen, OJ.sub.1, NJ.sub.1J.sub.2, SJ.sub.1, N.sub.3, COOJ.sub.1, acyl (C(O)H), substituted acyl, CN, sulfonyl (S(O).sub.2-J.sub.1), or sulfoxyl (S(O)-J.sub.1); and each J.sub.1 and J.sub.2 is, independently, H, C.sub.1-C.sub.12 alkyl, substituted C.sub.1-C.sub.12 alkyl, C.sub.2-C.sub.12 alkenyl, substituted C.sub.2-C.sub.12 alkenyl, C.sub.2-C.sub.12 alkynyl, substituted C.sub.2-C.sub.12 alkynyl, C.sub.5-C.sub.20 aryl, substituted C.sub.5-C.sub.20 aryl, acyl (C(O)H), substituted acyl, a heterocycle radical, a substituted heterocycle radical, C.sub.1-C.sub.12 aminoalkyl, substituted C.sub.1-C.sub.12 aminoalkyl, or a protecting group.

[0117] Nucleosides comprising bicyclic sugar moieties are referred to as bicyclic nucleosides or BNAs. Bicyclic nucleosides include, but are not limited to, (A) a-L-Methyleneoxy (4-CH.sub.2O-2) BNA, (B) -D-Methyleneoxy (4-CH.sub.2O-2) BNA (also referred to as locked nucleic acid or LNA), (C) Ethyleneoxy (4-(CH.sub.2).sub.2O-2) BNA, (D) Aminooxy (4-CH.sub.2ON(R)-2) BNA, (E) Oxyamino (4-CH.sub.2N(R)O-2) BNA, (F) Methyl(methyleneoxy) (4-CH(CH.sub.3)O-2) BNA (also referred to as constrained ethyl or cEt), (G) methylene-thio (4-CH.sub.2S-2) BNA, (H) methylene-amino (4-CH.sub.2N(R)-2) BNA, (I) methyl carbocyclic (4-CH.sub.2CH(CH.sub.3)-2) BNA, (J) propylene carbocyclic (4-(CH.sub.2).sub.3-2) BNA, and (K) Methoxy(ethyleneoxy) (4-CH(CH.sub.2OMe)-O-2) BNA (also referred to as constrained MOE or cMOE).

[0118] In some embodiments, bicyclic sugar moieties and nucleosides incorporating such bicyclic sugar moieties are further defined by isomeric configuration. For example, a nucleoside comprising a 4-2 methylene-oxy bridge, may be in the .alpha.-L configuration or in the .beta.-D configuration. Previously, a-L-methyleneoxy (4-CH.sub.2O-2) bicyclic nucleosides have been incorporated into antisense polynucleotides that showed antisense activity.

[0119] In some embodiments, substituted sugar moieties comprise one or more non-bridging sugar substituent and one or more bridging sugar substituent (e.g., 5-substituted and 4-2 bridged sugars, wherein LNA is substituted with, for example, a 5-methyl or a 5-vinyl group).

[0120] In some embodiments, modified sugar moieties are sugar surrogates. In some such embodiments, the oxygen atom of the naturally occurring sugar is substituted, e.g., with a sulfur, carbon or nitrogen atom. In some such embodiments, such modified sugar moiety also comprises bridging and/or non-bridging substituents as described above. For example, certain sugar surrogates comprise a 4-sulfur atom and a substitution at the 2-position and/or the 5 position. By way of additional example, carbocyclic bicyclic nucleosides having a 4-2 bridge have been described.

[0121] In some embodiments, sugar surrogates comprise rings having other than 5-atoms. For example, in some embodiments, a sugar surrogate comprises a six-membered tetrahydropyran. Such tetrahydropyrans may be further modified or substituted. Nucleosides comprising such modified tetrahydropyrans include, but are not limited to, hexitol nucleic acid (HNA), anitol nucleic acid (ANA), manitol nucleic acid (MNA), and fluoro HNA (F-HNA).

[0122] In some embodiments, the modified THP nucleosides of Formula VII are provided wherein q.sub.1, q.sub.2, q.sub.3, q.sub.4, q.sub.5, q.sub.6 and q.sub.7 are each H. In certain embodiments, at least one of q.sub.1, q.sub.2, q.sub.3, q.sub.4, q.sub.5, q.sub.6 and q.sub.7 is other than H. In some embodiments, at least one of q.sub.1, q.sub.2, q.sub.3, q.sub.4, q.sub.5, q.sub.6 and q.sub.7 is methyl. In some embodiments, THP nucleosides of Formula VII are provided wherein one of R.sub.1 and R.sub.2 is F. In certain embodiments, R.sub.1 is fluoro and R.sub.2 is H, R.sub.1 is methoxy and R.sub.2 is H, and R.sub.1 is methoxyethoxy and R.sub.2 is H.

[0123] Many other bicyclo and tricyclo sugar surrogate ring systems are also known in the art that can be used to modify nucleosides for incorporation into antisense compounds.

[0124] Combinations of modifications are also provided without limitation, such as 2-F-5-methyl substituted nucleosides and replacement of the ribosyl ring oxygen atom with S and further substitution at the 2-position or alternatively 5-substitution of a bicyclic nucleic acid. In some embodiments, a 4-CH.sub.2O-2 bicyclic nucleoside is further substituted at the 5 position with a 5-methyl or a 5-vinyl group). The synthesis and preparation of carbocyclic bicyclic nucleosides along with their oligomerization and biochemical studies have also been described.

[0125] In some embodiments, the present application provides polynucleotide comprising modified nucleosides. Those modified nucleotides may include modified sugars, modified nucleobases, and/or modified linkages. The specific modifications are selected such that the resulting polynucleotide possesses desirable characteristics. In some embodiments, polynucleotide comprises one or more RNA-like nucleosides. In some embodiments, polynucleotide comprises one or more DNA-like nucleotides.

[0126] In some embodiments, nucleosides of the present application comprise one or more unmodified nucleobases. In certain embodiments, nucleosides of the present application comprise one or more modified nucleobases.

[0127] In some embodiments, modified nucleobases are selected from: universal bases, hydrophobic bases, promiscuous bases, size-expanded bases, and fluorinated bases as defined herein. 5-substituted pyrimidines, 6-azapyrimidines and N-2, N-6 and 0-6 substituted purines, including 2-aminopropyladenine, 5-propynyluracil; 5-propynylcytosine; 5-hydroxymethyl cytosine, xanthine, hypoxanthine, 2-aminoadenine, 6-methyl and other alkyl derivatives of adenine and guanine, 2-propyl and other alkyl derivatives of adenine and guanine, 2-thiouracil, 2-thiothymine and 2-thiocytosine, 5-halouracil and cytosine, 5-propynyl CH.sub.3) uracil and cytosine and other alkynyl derivatives of pyrimidine bases, 6-azo uracil, cytosine and thymine, 5-uracil (pseudouracil), 4-thiouracil, 8-halo, 8-amino, 8-thiol, 8-thioalkyl, 8-hydroxyl and other 8-substituted adenines and guanines, 5-halo particularly 5-bromo, 5-trifluoromethyl and other 5-substituted uracils and cytosines, 7-methylguanine and 7-methyladenine, 2-F-adenine, 2-amino-adenine, 8-azaguanine and 8-azaadenine, 7-deazaguanine and 7-deazaadenine, 3-deazaguanine and 3-deazaadenine, universal bases, hydrophobic bases, promiscuous bases, size-expanded bases, and fluorinated bases as defined herein. Further modified nucleobases include tricyclic pyrimidines such as phenoxazine cytidine([5,4-b][1,4]benzoxazin-2(3H)-one), phenothiazine cytidine (1H-pyrimido[5,4-b][1,4]benzothiazin-2(3H)-one), G-clamps such as a substituted phenoxazine cytidine (e.g., 9-(2-aminoethoxy)-H-pyrimido[5,4-13][1,4]benzoxazin-2(3H)-one), carbazole cytidine (.sup.2H-pyrimido[4,5-b]indol-2-one), pyridoindole cytidine (H-pyrido[3,2:4,5]pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidin-2-one). Modified nucleobases may also include those in which the purine or pyrimidine base is replaced with other heterocycles, for example 7-deaza-adenine, 7-deazaguanosine, 2-aminopyridine and 2-pyridone.

[0128] In some embodiments, the present application provides poylnucleotide comprising linked nucleosides. In such embodiments, nucleosides may be linked together using any internucleoside linkage. The two main classes of internucleoside linking groups are defined by the presence or absence of a phosphorus atom. Representative phosphorus containing internucleoside linkages include, but are not limited to, phosphodiesters (PO), phosphotriesters, methylphosphonates, phosphoramidate, and phosphorothioates (PS).

[0129] Representative non-phosphorus containing internucleoside linking groups include, but are not limited to, methylenemethylimino (CH.sub.2N(CH.sub.3)OCH.sub.2), thiodiester (OC(O)S), thionocarbamate (OC(O)(NH)S); siloxane (OSi(H).sub.2O); and N,N-dimethylhydrazine (CH.sub.2N(CH.sub.3)N(CH.sub.3)). Modified linkages, compared to natural phosphodiester linkages, can be used to alter, typically increase, nuclease resistance of the oligonucleotide. In some embodiments, internucleoside linkages having a chiral atom can be prepared as a racemic mixture, or as separate enantiomers. Representative chiral linkages include, but are not limited to, alkylphosphonates and phosphorothioates. Methods of preparation of phosphorous-containing and non-phosphorous-containing internucleoside linkages are well known to those skilled in the art.

[0130] The polynucleotides described herein contain one or more asymmetric centers and thus give rise to enantiomers, diastereomers, and other stereoisomeric configurations that may be defined, in terms of absolute stereochemistry, as (R) or (S), or such as for sugar anomers, or as (D) or (L) such as for amino acids etc. Included in the antisense compounds provided herein are all such possible isomers, as well as their racemic and optically pure forms.

[0131] Neutral internucleoside linkages include without limitation, phosphotriesters, methylphosphonates, MMI (3-CH.sub.2N(CH.sub.3)O-5), amide-3 (3-CH.sub.2C(O)N(H)-5), amide-4 (3-CH.sub.2N(H)C(O)-5), formacetal (3-OCH.sub.2O-5), and thioformacetal (3-SCH.sub.2O-5). Further neutral internucleoside linkages include nonionic linkages comprising siloxane (dialkylsiloxane), carboxylate ester, carboxamide, sulfide, sulfonate ester and amides (See for example: Carbohydrate Modifications in Antisense Research; Y. S. Sanghvi and P. D. Cook, Eds., ACS Symposium Series 580; Chapters 3 and 4, 40-65). Further neutral internucleoside linkages include nonionic linkages comprising mixed N, O, S and CH.sub.2 component parts.

[0132] Additional modifications may also be made at other positions on the oligonucleotide, particularly the 3 position of the sugar on the 3 terminal nucleotide and the 5 position of 5 terminal nucleotide. For example, one additional modification of the ligand conjugated polynucleotides of the present application involves chemically linking to the oligonucleotide one or more additional non-ligand moieties or conjugates which enhance the activity, cellular distribution or cellular uptake of the oligonucleotide. Such moieties include but are not limited to lipid moieties such as a cholesterol moiety, cholic acid, a thioether, e.g., hexyl-5-tritylthiol, a thiocholesterol, an aliphatic chain, e.g., dodecandiol or undecyl residues, a phospholipid, e.g., di-hexadecyl-rac-glycerol or triethylammonium 1,2-di-O-hexadecyl-rac-glycero-3-H-phosphonate, a polyamine or a polyethylene glycol chain, or adamantane acetic acid, a palmityl moiety, or an octadecylamine or hexylamino-carbonyl-oxycholesterol moiety.

Polypeptides

[0133] In some embodiments of the compositions or nucleic acid editing systems of the present application, the composition or nucleic acid editing system assembled with the lipid composition comprises one or more one or more polypeptides. Some polypeptide may include endonucleases such as any one of the nuclease enzymes described herein. For example, the nuclease enzyme may include from CRISPR-associated (Cas) proteins or Cas nucleases including type I CRISPR-associated (Cas) polypeptides, type II CRISPR-associated (Cas) polypeptides, type III CRISPR-associated (Cas) polypeptides, type IV CRISPR-associated (Cas) polypeptides, type V CRISPR-associated (Cas) polypeptides, and type VI CRISPR-associated (Cas) polypeptides; zinc finger nucleases (ZFN); transcription activator-like effector nucleases (TALEN); meganucleases; RNA-binding proteins (RBP); CRISPR-associated RNA binding proteins; recombinases; flippases; transposases; Argonaute (Ago) proteins (e.g., prokaryotic Argonaute (pAgo), archaeal Argonaute (aAgo), eukaryotic Argonaute (eAgo), and Natronobacterium gregoryi Argonaute (NgAgo)); Adenosine deaminases acting on RNA (ADAR); CIRT, PUF, homing endonuclease, or any functional fragment thereof, any derivative thereof; any variant thereof; and any fragment thereof. In some embodiments, the nuclease enzyme may include Cas proteins such as Cas1, Cas1B, Cas2, Cas3, Cas4, Cas5, Cas6, Cas7, Cas8, Cas9 (also known as Csn1 and Csx12), Cas10, Csy1, Csy2, Csy3, Cse1, Cse2, Csc1, Csc2, Csa5, Csn2, Csm2, Csm3, Csm4, Csm5, Csm6, Cmr1, Cmr3, Cmr4, Cmr5, Cmr6, Csb1, Csb2, Csb3, Csx17, Csx14, Csx10, Csx16, CsaX, Csx3, Csx1, Csx15, Csf1, Csf2, Csf3, Csf4, homologs thereof, or modified versions thereof. In some embodiments, the Cas protein may be complexed with a guide polynucleotide described herein to be form a CRISPR ribonucleoprotein (RNP).

[0134] The nuclease in the compositions described herein may be Cas9 (e.g., from S. pyogenes or S. pneumonia). The CRISPR enzyme can direct cleavage of one or both strands at the location of a target sequence, such as within the target sequence and/or within the complement of the target sequence of any one of the genes described herein. For example, the CRISPR enzyme may be directed and cleaved a genomic locus of CFTR.

[0135] The CRISPR enzyme may be mutated with respect to a corresponding wild-type enzyme such that the mutated CRISPR enzyme lacks the ability to cleave one or both strands of a target polynucleotide containing a target sequence. For example, an aspartate-to-alanine substitution (D10A) in the RuvC I catalytic domain of Cas9 from S. pyogenes converts Cas9 from a nuclease that cleaves both strands to a nickase (cleaves a single strand). In some embodiments, a Cas9 nickase may be used in combination with guide sequence(s), e.g., two guide sequences, which target respectively sense and antisense strands of the DNA target. This combination allows both strands to be nicked and used to induce non-homologous end-joining (NHEJ) or homology directed repair (HDR).

[0136] In some embodiments, the present application provides polypeptide containing one or more therapeutic proteins. The therapeutic proteins that may be included in the composition include a wide range of molecules such as cytokines, chemokines, interleukins, interferons, growth factors, coagulation factors, anti-coagulants, blood factors, bone morphogenic proteins, immunoglobulins, and enzymes. Some non-limiting examples of particular therapeutic proteins include Erythropoietin (EPO), Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF), Alpha-galactosidase A, Alpha-L-iduronidase, Thyrotropin , N-acetylgalactosamine-4-sulfatase (rhASB), Dornase alfa, Tissue plasminogen activator (TPA) Activase, Glucocerebrosidase, Interferon (IF) -1a, Interferon -1b, Interferon , Interferon , TNF-, IL-1 through IL-36, Human growth hormone (rHGH), Human insulin (BHI), Human chorionic gonadotropin , Darbepoetin , Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and Factor VIII.

[0137] In some embodiments, the polypeptide comprises a peptide sequence that is at least partially identical to any of the composition or nucleic acid editing system comprising a peptide sequence. For example, the polypeptide may comprise a peptide sequence that is at least partially identical to an antibody (e.g., a monoclonal antibody) for treating a lung disease such as lung cancer.

[0138] In some embodiments, the polypeptide comprises a peptide or protein that restores the function of a defective protein in a subject being treated by the pharmaceutical composition described herein. For example, the polynucleotide comprises a peptide or protein that restores function of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) protein, which may be used to rescue a subject who is afflicted with inborn error leading to the expression of the mutated CFTR protein.

Pharmaceutical Compositions

[0139] In some embodiments, the composition is formulated for pharmaceutical (e.g., systemic) administration. The pharmaceutical (e.g., systemic) administration may be intravenous administration. In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition of the present application can be administrated through any suitable routes including, for example, oral, rectal, vaginal, transmucosal, pulmonary including intratracheal or inhaled, or intestinal administration; parenteral delivery, including intramuscular, subcutaneous, intramedullary injections, as well as intrathecal, direct intraventricular, intravenous, intraperitoneal, intranasal, or intraocular injections.

[0140] In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition of the present application can be administered in a local rather than systemic manner, for example, via injection of the pharmaceutical composition directly into a targeted tissue, preferably in a sustained release formulation. Local delivery can be affected in various ways, depending on the tissue to be targeted.

[0141] In some embodiments, aerosols containing the composition of the present application can be inhaled (for nasal, tracheal, or bronchial delivery). In some embodiments, the composition of the present application can be injected into the site of injury, disease manifestation, or pain, for example. In some embodiments, the composition of the present application can be provided in lozenges for oral, tracheal, or esophageal application. In some embodiments, the composition of the present application can be supplied in liquid, tablet or capsule form for administration to the stomach or intestines. In some embodiments, the composition of the present application can be supplied in suppository form for rectal or vaginal application. In some embodiments, the composition of the present application can even be delivered to the eye by use of creams, drops, or even injection.

[0142] The pharmaceutical composition may be formulated such that administration may be performed in such a way to target or come in contact with an organ of interest. In some embodiments, the composition is formulated for nebulization. In some embodiments, the composition is formulated for intravenous administration. In some embodiments the composition is formulated for apical delivery

[0143] In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition of the present application comprises a plurality of payloads assembled with (e.g., encapsulated within) a lipid composition. The plurality of payloads assembled with the lipid composition may be configured for gene-editing or gene-expression modification. The plurality of payloads assembled with the lipid composition may comprise a polynucleotide encoding an actuator moiety (e.g., comprising a heterologous endonuclease such as Cas) or a polynucleotide encoding the actuator moiety. The plurality of payloads assembled with the lipid composition may further comprise one or more (e.g., one or two) guide polynucleotides. The plurality of payloads assembled with the lipid composition may further comprise one or more donor or template polynucleotides. The plurality of payloads assembled with the lipid composition may comprise a ribonucleoprotein (RNP).

[0144] In some embodiments of the (e.g., pharmaceutical) composition of the present application, a molar or weight ratio of (1) the polypeptide comprising the endonuclease or the polynucleotide encoding the polypeptide to (2) total lipids of the lipid composition is no more than (about) 1:1, no more than (about) 1:5, no more than (about) 1:10, no more than (about) 1:15, no more than (about) 1:20, no more than (about) 1:25, no more than (about) 1:30, no more than (about) 1:35, no more than (about) 1:40, no more than (about) 1:45, no more than (about) 1:50, no more than (about) 1:60, no more than (about) 1:70, no more than (about) 1:80, no more than (about) 1:90, or more than (about) 1:100. In some embodiments of the (e.g., pharmaceutical) composition of the present application, a molar or weight ratio of (1) the polypeptide comprising the endonuclease or the polynucleotide encoding the polypeptide to (2) total lipids of the lipid composition is no less than (about) 1:1, no less than (about) 1:5, no less than (about) 1:10, no less than (about) 1:15, no less than (about) 1:20, no less than (about) 1:25, no less than (about) 1:30, no less than (about) 1:35, no less than (about) 1:40, no less than (about) 1:45, no less than (about) 1:50, no less than (about) 1:60, no less than (about) 1:70, no less than (about) 1:80, no less than (about) 1:90, or less than (about) 1:100. In some embodiments of the (e.g., pharmaceutical) composition of the present application, a molar or weight ratio of (1) the polypeptide comprising the endonuclease or the polynucleotide encoding the polypeptide to (2) total lipids of the lipid composition is (about) 1:1, 1:5, 1:10, 1:15, 1:20, 1:25, 1:30, 1:35, 1:40, 1:45, 1:50, 1:60, 1:70, 1:80, 1:90, or 1:100, or of a range between any two of the foregoing values.

[0145] In some embodiments of the pharmaceutical composition of the present application, a molar or weight ratio of (1) total payload molecules (including polypeptide(s) and polynucleotide(s)) to (2) total lipids of the lipid composition is no less than (about) 1:1, no less than (about) 1:5, no less than (about) 1:10, no less than (about) 1:15, no less than (about) 1:20, no less than (about) 1:25, no less than (about) 1:30, no less than (about) 1:35, no less than (about) 1:40, no less than (about) 1:45, no less than (about) 1:50, no less than (about) 1:60, no less than (about) 1:70, no less than (about) 1:80, no less than (about) 1:90, or less than (about) 1:100. In some embodiments of the pharmaceutical composition of the present application, a molar or weight ratio of (1) total payload molecules (including polypeptide(s) and polynucleotide(s)) to (2) total lipids of the lipid composition is no less than (about) 1:1, no less than (about) 1:5, no less than (about) 1:10, no less than (about) 1:15, no less than (about) 1:20, no less than (about) 1:25, no less than (about) 1:30, no less than (about) 1:35, no less than (about) 1:40, no less than (about) 1:45, no less than (about) 1:50, no less than (about) 1:60, no less than (about) 1:70, no less than (about) 1:80, no less than (about) 1:90, or less than (about) 1:100. In some embodiments of the pharmaceutical composition of the present application, a molar or weight ratio of (1) total payload molecules (including polypeptide(s) and polynucleotide(s)) to (2) total lipids of the lipid composition is (about) 1:1, 1:5, 1:10, 1:15, 1:20, 1:25, 1:30, 1:35, 1:40, 1:45, 1:50, 1:60, 1:70, 1:80, 1:90, or 1:100, or of a range between any two of the foregoing values.

[0146] In some embodiments of the pharmaceutical composition of the present application, at least (about) 85%, at least (about) 86%, at least (about) 87%, at least (about) 88%, at least (about) 89%, at least (about) 90%, at least (about) 91%, at least (about) 92%, at least (about) 93%, at least (about) 94%, at least (about) 95%, at least (about) 96%, at least (about) 97%, at least (about) 98%, at least (about) 99%, or (about) 100% of the nucleic acid editing system is encapsulated in particles of the lipid compositions.

[0147] In some embodiments of the pharmaceutical composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises a plurality of particles characterized by one or more characteristics of the following: (1) a (e.g., average) size of 100 nanometers (nm) or less; (2) a polydispersity index (PDI) of no more than about 0.2; and (3) a zeta potential of 10 millivolts (mV) to 10 mV.

[0148] In some embodiments of the pharmaceutical composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises a plurality of particles with a (e.g., average) size from about 50 nanometers (nm) to about 100 nanometers (nm). In some embodiments of the pharmaceutical composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises a plurality of particles with a (e.g., average) size from about 70 nanometers (nm) to about 100 nanometers (nm). In some embodiments of the pharmaceutical composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises a plurality of particles with a (e.g., average) size from about 50 nanometers (nm) to about 80 nanometers (nm). In some embodiments of the pharmaceutical composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises a plurality of particles with a (e.g., average) size from about 60 nanometers (nm) to about 80 nanometers (nm). In some embodiments of the pharmaceutical composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises a plurality of particles with a (e.g., average) size of at most about 100 nanometers (nm), at most about 90 nanometers (nm), at most about 85 nanometers (nm), at most about 80 nanometers (nm), at most about 75 nanometers (nm), at most about 70 nanometers (nm), at most about 65 nanometers (nm), at most about 60 nanometers (nm), at most about 55 nanometers (nm), or at most about 50 nanometers (nm). In some embodiments of the pharmaceutical composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises a plurality of particles with a (e.g., average) size of at least about 100 nanometers (nm), at least about 90 nanometers (nm), at least about 85 nanometers (nm), at least about 80 nanometers (nm), at least about 75 nanometers (nm), at least about 70 nanometers (nm), at least about 65 nanometers (nm), at least about 60 nanometers (nm), at least about 55 nanometers (nm), or at least about 50 nanometers (nm). The (e.g., average) size may be determined by size exclusion chromatography (SEC). The (e.g., average) size may be determined by spectroscopic methods or image based methods, for example, dynamic light scattering, static light scattering, multi-angle light scattering, laser light scattering, or dynamic image analysis.

[0149] In some embodiments of the pharmaceutical composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises a plurality of particles with a polydispersity index (PDI) from about 0.05 to about 0.5. In some embodiments of the pharmaceutical composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises a plurality of particles with a polydispersity index (PDI) from about 0.1 to about 0.5. In some embodiments of the pharmaceutical composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises a plurality of particles with a polydispersity index (PDI) from about 0.1 to about 0.3. In some embodiments of the pharmaceutical composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises a plurality of particles with a polydispersity index (PDI) from about 0.2 to about 0.5. In some embodiments of the pharmaceutical composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises a plurality of particles with a polydispersity index (PDI) of no more than about 0.5, no more than about 0.4, no more than about 0.3, no more than about 0.2, no more than about 0.1, or no more than about 0.05.

[0150] In some embodiments of the pharmaceutical composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises a plurality of particles with a negative zeta potential of 5 millivolts (mV) or less. In some embodiments of the pharmaceutical composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises a plurality of particles with a negative zeta potential of 10 millivolts (mV) or less. In some embodiments of the pharmaceutical composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises a plurality of particles with a negative zeta potential of 15 millivolts (mV) or less. In some embodiments of the pharmaceutical composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises a plurality of particles with a negative zeta potential of 20 millivolts (mV) or less. In some embodiments of the pharmaceutical composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises a plurality of particles with a negative zeta potential of 30 millivolts (mV) or less. In some embodiments, the lipid composition comprises a plurality of particles with a zeta potential of 0 millivolts (mV) or less. In some embodiments, the lipid composition comprises a plurality of particles with a zeta potential of 5 millivolts (mV) or less. In some embodiments, the lipid composition comprises a plurality of particles with a zeta potential of 10 millivolts (mV) or less. In some embodiments of the pharmaceutical composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises a plurality of particles with a negative zeta potential of 15 millivolts (mV) or less. In some embodiments of the pharmaceutical composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises a plurality of particles with a negative zeta potential of 20 millivolts (mV) or less.

[0151] In some embodiments of the pharmaceutical composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises a plurality of particles with a negative zeta potential of 5 millivolts (mV) or more. In some embodiments of the pharmaceutical composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises a plurality of particles with a negative zeta potential of 10 millivolts (mV) or more. In some embodiments of the pharmaceutical composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises a plurality of particles with a negative zeta potential of 15 millivolts (mV) or more. In some embodiments of the pharmaceutical composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises a plurality of particles with a negative zeta potential of 20 millivolts (mV) or more. In some embodiments of the pharmaceutical composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises a plurality of particles with a negative zeta potential of 30 millivolts (mV) or more. In some embodiments, the lipid composition comprises a plurality of particles with a zeta potential of 0 millivolts (mV) or more. In some embodiments, the lipid composition comprises a plurality of particles with a zeta potential of 5 millivolts (mV) or more. In some embodiments, the lipid composition comprises a plurality of particles with a zeta potential of 10 millivolts (mV) or more. In some embodiments of the pharmaceutical composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises a plurality of particles with a zeta potential of 15 millivolts (mV) or more. In some embodiments of the pharmaceutical composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises a plurality of particles with a zeta potential of 20 millivolts (mV) or more.

[0152] In some embodiments of the pharmaceutical composition of the present application, the lipid composition has an apparent ionization constant (pKa) outside a range of 6 to 7. In some embodiments of the pharmaceutical composition of the present application, the lipid composition has an apparent pKa of about 8 or higher, about 9 or higher, about 10 or higher, about 11 or higher, about 12 or higher, or about 13 or higher. In some embodiments of the pharmaceutical composition of the present application, the lipid composition has an apparent pKa of about 8 to about 13. In some embodiments of the pharmaceutical composition of the present application, the lipid composition has an apparent pKa of about 8 to about 10. In some embodiments of the pharmaceutical composition of the present application, the lipid composition has an apparent pKa of about 9 to about 11. In some embodiments of the pharmaceutical composition of the present application, the lipid composition has an apparent pKa of about 10 to about 13. In some embodiments of the pharmaceutical composition of the present application, the lipid composition has an apparent pKa of about 8 to about 12. In some embodiments of the pharmaceutical composition of the present application, the lipid composition has an apparent pKa of about 10 to about 12.

Lipid Compositions

[0153] In one aspect, provided herein is a lipid composition comprising: (i) an ionizable cationic lipid (such as described herein); and (iii) a selective organ targeting (SORT) lipid (such as described herein) separate from the ionizable cationic lipid. The lipid composition may further comprise a phospholipid separate from the SORT lipid.

Ionizable Cationic Lipids

[0154] In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises an ionizable cationic lipid. In some embodiments, the cationic ionizable lipids contain one or more groups which is protonated at physiological pH but may deprotonated and has no charge at a pH above 8, 9, 10, 11, or 12. The ionizable cationic group may contain one or more protonatable amines which are able to form a cationic group at physiological pH. The cationic ionizable lipid compound may also further comprise one or more lipid components such as two or more fatty acids with C.sub.6-C.sub.24 alkyl or alkenyl carbon groups. These lipid groups may be attached through an ester linkage or may be further added through a Michael addition to a sulfur atom. In some embodiments, these compounds may be a dendrimer, a dendron, a polymer, or a combination thereof.

[0155] In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the ionizable cationic lipids refer to lipid and lipid-like molecules with nitrogen atoms that can acquire charge (pKa). These lipids may be known in the literature as cationic lipids. These molecules with amino groups typically have between 2 and 6 hydrophobic chains, often alkyl or alkenyl such as C.sub.6-C.sub.2A alkyl or alkenyl groups, but may have at least 1 or more that 6 tails.

[0156] In some embodiments, these cationic ionizable lipids are dendrimers, which are a polymer exhibiting regular dendritic branching, formed by the sequential or generational addition of branched layers to or from a core and are characterized by a core, at least one interior branched layer, and a surface branched layer. (See Petar R. Dvornic and Donald A. Tomalia in Chem. in Britain, 641-645, August 1994.) In other embodiments, the term dendrimer as used herein is intended to include, but is not limited to, a molecular architecture with an interior core, interior layers (or generations) of repeating units regularly attached to this initiator core, and an exterior surface of terminal groups attached to the outermost generation. A dendron is a species of dendrimer having branches emanating from a focal point which is or can be joined to a core, either directly or through a linking moiety to form a larger dendrimer. In some embodiments, the dendrimer structures have radiating repeating groups from a central core which doubles with each repeating unit for each branch. In some embodiments, the dendrimers described herein may be described as a small molecule, medium-sized molecules, lipids, or lipid-like material. These terms may be used to described compounds described herein which have a dendron like appearance (e.g. molecules which radiate from a single focal point).

[0157] While dendrimers are polymers, dendrimers may be preferable to traditional polymers because they have a controllable structure, a single molecular weight, numerous and controllable surface functionalities, and traditionally adopt a globular conformation after reaching a specific generation. Dendrimers can be prepared by sequentially reactions of each repeating unit to produce monodisperse, tree-like and/or generational structure polymeric structures. Individual dendrimers consist of a central core molecule, with a dendritic wedge attached to one or more functional sites on that central core. The dendrimeric surface layer can have a variety of functional groups disposed thereon including anionic, cationic, hydrophilic, or lipophilic groups, according to the assembly monomers used during the preparation.

[0158] Modifying the functional groups and/or the chemical properties of the core, repeating units, and the surface or terminating groups, their physical properties can be modulated. Some properties which can be varied include, but are not limited to, solubility, toxicity, immunogenicity and bioattachment capability. Dendrimers are often described by their generation or number of repeating units in the branches. A dendrimer consisting of only the core molecule is referred to as Generation 0, while each consecutive repeating unit along all branches is Generation 1, Generation 2, and so on until the terminating or surface group. In some embodiments, half generations are possible resulting from only the first condensation reaction with the amine and not the second condensation reaction with the thiol.

[0159] Preparation of dendrimers requires a level of synthetic control achieved through series of stepwise reactions comprising building the dendrimer by each consecutive group. Dendrimer synthesis can be of the convergent or divergent type. During divergent dendrimer synthesis, the molecule is assembled from the core to the periphery in a stepwise process involving attaching one generation to the previous and then changing functional groups for the next stage of reaction. Functional group transformation is necessary to prevent uncontrolled polymerization. Such polymerization would lead to a highly branched molecule that is not monodisperse and is otherwise known as a hyperbranched polymer. Due to steric effects, continuing to react dendrimer repeat units leads to a sphere shaped or globular molecule, until steric overcrowding prevents complete reaction at a specific generation and destroys the molecule's monodispersity. Thus, in some embodiments, the dendrimers of G1-G10 generation are specifically contemplated. In some embodiments, the dendrimers comprise 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 repeating units, or any range derivable therein. In some embodiments, the dendrimers used herein are G0, G1, G2, or G3. However, the number of possible generations (such as 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 20, or 25) may be increased by reducing the spacing units in the branching polymer.

[0160] Additionally, dendrimers have two major chemical environments: the environment created by the specific surface groups on the termination generation and the interior of the dendritic structure which due to the higher order structure can be shielded from the bulk media and the surface groups. Because of these different chemical environments, dendrimers have found numerous different potential uses including in therapeutic applications.

[0161] In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the dendrimers or dendrons are assembled using the differential reactivity of the acrylate and methacrylate groups with amines and thiols. The dendrimers or dendrons may include secondary or tertiary amines and thioethers formed by the reaction of an acrylate group with a primary or secondary amine and a methacrylate with a mercapto group. Additionally, the repeating units of the dendrimers or dendrons may contain groups which are degradable under physiological conditions. In some embodiments, these repeating units may contain one or more germinal diethers, esters, amides, or disulfides groups. In some embodiments, the core molecule is a monoamine which allows dendritic polymerization in only one direction. In other embodiments, the core molecule is a polyamine with multiple different dendritic branches which each may comprise one or more repeating units. The dendrimer or dendron may be formed by removing one or more hydrogen atoms from this core. In some embodiments, these hydrogen atoms are on a heteroatom such as a nitrogen atom. In some embodiments, the terminating group is a lipophilic groups such as a long chain alkyl or alkenyl group. In other embodiments, the terminating group is a long chain haloalkyl or haloalkenyl group. In other embodiments, the terminating group is an aliphatic or aromatic group containing an ionizable group such as an amine (NH.sub.2) or a carboxylic acid (CO.sub.2H). In still other embodiments, the terminating group is an aliphatic or aromatic group containing one or more hydrogen bond donors such as a hydroxide group, an amide group, or an ester.

[0162] The cationic ionizable lipids of the present application may contain one or more asymmetrically-substituted carbon or nitrogen atoms, and may be isolated in optically active or racemic form. Thus, all chiral, diastereomeric, racemic form, epimeric form, and all geometric isomeric forms of a chemical formula are intended, unless the specific stereochemistry or isomeric form is specifically indicated. Cationic ionizable lipids may occur as racemates and racemic mixtures, single enantiomers, diastereomeric mixtures and individual diastereomers. In some embodiments, a single diastereomer is obtained. The chiral centers of the cationic ionizable lipids of the present application can have the S or the R configuration. Furthermore, it is contemplated that one or more of the cationic ionizable lipids may be present as constitutional isomers. In some embodiments, the compounds have the same formula but different connectivity to the nitrogen atoms of the core. Without wishing to be bound by any theory, it is believed that such cationic ionizable lipids exist because the starting monomers react first with the primary amines and then statistically with any secondary amines present. Thus, the constitutional isomers may present the fully reacted primary amines and then a mixture of reacted secondary amines.

[0163] Chemical formulas used to represent cationic ionizable lipids of the present application will typically only show one of possibly several different tautomers. For example, many types of ketone groups are known to exist in equilibrium with corresponding enol groups. Similarly, many types of imine groups exist in equilibrium with enamine groups. Regardless of which tautomer is depicted for a given formula, and regardless of which one is most prevalent, all tautomers of a given chemical formula are intended.

[0164] The cationic ionizable lipids of the present application may also have the advantage that they may be more efficacious than, be less toxic than, be longer acting than, be more potent than, produce fewer side effects than, be more easily absorbed than, and/or have a better pharmacokinetic profile (e.g., higher oral bioavailability and/or lower clearance) than, and/or have other useful pharmacological, physical, or chemical properties over, compounds known in the prior art, whether for use in the indications stated herein or otherwise.

[0165] In addition, atoms making up the cationic ionizable lipids of the present application are intended to include all isotopic forms of such atoms. Isotopes, as used herein, include those atoms having the same atomic number but different mass numbers. By way of general example and without limitation, isotopes of hydrogen include tritium and deuterium, and isotopes of carbon include .sup.13C and .sup.14C.

[0166] It should be recognized that the particular anion or cation forming a part of any salt form of a cationic ionizable lipids provided herein is not critical, so long as the salt, as a whole, is pharmacologically acceptable. Additional examples of pharmaceutically acceptable salts and their methods of preparation and use are presented in Handbook of Pharmaceutical Salts: Properties, and Use (2002), which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0167] In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the ionizable cationic lipid is a dendrimer or dendron. In some embodiments, the ionizable cationic lipid comprises an ammonium group which is positively charged at physiological pH and contains at least two hydrophobic groups. In some embodiments, the ammonium group is positively charged at a pH from about 6 to about 8. In some embodiments, the ionizable cationic lipid is a dendrimer or dendron. In some embodiments, the ionizable cationic lipid comprises at least two C.sub.6-C.sub.24 alkyl or alkenyl groups.

Dendrimers or Dendrons of Formula (I)

[0168] In some embodiments of the lipid composition, the ionizable cationic lipid comprises at least two C.sub.8-C.sub.24 alkyl groups. In some embodiments, the ionizable cationic lipid is a dendrimer or dendron further defined by the formula:

Core-Repeating Unit-Terminating Group(D-I) [0169] wherein the core is linked to the repeating unit by removing one or more hydrogen atoms from the core and replacing the atom with the repeating unit and wherein: [0170] the core has the formula:

##STR00010## [0171] wherein: [0172] X.sub.1 is amino or alkylamino.sub.(C12), dialkylamino.sub.(C12), heterocycloalkyl.sub.(C12), heteroaryl.sub.(C12), or a substituted version thereof; [0173] R.sub.1 is amino, hydroxy, or mercapto, or alkylamino.sub.(C12), dialkylamino.sub.(C12), or a substituted version of either of these groups; and [0174] a is 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6; or [0175] the core has the formula:

##STR00011## [0176] wherein [0177] X.sub.2 is N(R.sub.5).sub.y; [0178] R.sub.5 is hydrogen, alkyl.sub.(C18), or substituted alkyl.sub.(C18); and [0179] y is 0, 1, or 2, provided that the sum of y and z is 3; [0180] R.sub.2 is amino, hydroxy, or mercapto, or alkylamino.sub.(C12), dialkylamino.sub.(C12), or a substituted version of either of these groups; [0181] b is 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6; and [0182] z is 1, 2, 3; provided that the sum of z and y is 3; or the core has the formula:

##STR00012## [0183] wherein: [0184] X.sub.3 is NR.sub.6, wherein R.sub.6 is hydrogen, alkyl.sub.(C8), or substituted alkyl.sub.(C8), O, or alkylaminodiyl.sub.(C8), alkoxydiyl.sub.(C8), arenediyl.sub.(C8), heteroarenediyl.sub.(C8), heterocycloalkanediyl.sub.(C8), or a substituted version of any of these groups; [0185] R.sub.3 and R.sub.4 are each independently amino, hydroxy, or mercapto, or alkylamino.sub.(C12), dialkylamino.sub.(C12), or a substituted version of either of these groups; or a group of the formula: N(R.sub.f).sub.f(CH.sub.2CH.sub.2N(R.sub.c)).sub.eR.sub.d,

##STR00013## [0186] wherein: PGP46,CI e and f are each independently 1, 2, or 3; provided that the sum of e and f is 3; R.sub.c, R.sub.d, and R.sub.f are each independently hydrogen, alkyl.sub.(C6), or substituted alkyl.sub.(C6); [0187] c and d are each independently 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6; or [0188] the core is alkylamine.sub.(C18), dialkylamine.sub.(C36), heterocycloalkane.sub.(C12), or a substituted version of any of these groups; [0189] wherein the repeating unit comprises a degradable diacyl and a linker, the degradable diacyl group has the formula:

##STR00014## [0190] wherein: [0191] A.sub.1 and A.sub.2 are each independently O, S, or NR.sub.a, wherein: [0192] R.sub.a is hydrogen, alkyl.sub.(C6), or substituted alkyl.sub.(C6); [0193] Y.sub.3 is alkanediyl.sub.(C12), alkenediyl.sub.(C12), arenediyl.sub.(C12), or a substituted version of any of these groups; or a group of the formula:

##STR00015## [0194] wherein: X.sub.3 and X.sub.4 are alkanediyl.sub.(C12), alkenediyl.sub.(C12), arenediyl.sub.(C12), or a substituted version of any of these groups; Y.sub.5 is a covalent bond, alkanediyl.sub.(C12), alkenediyl.sub.(C12), arenediyl.sub.(C12), or a substituted version of any of these groups; and R.sub.9 is alkyl.sub.(C8) or substituted alkyl.sub.(C8); [0195] the linker group has the formula:

##STR00016## [0196] wherein: [0197] Y.sub.1 is alkanediyl.sub.(C12), alkenediyl.sub.(C12), arenediyl.sub.(C12), or a substituted version of any of these groups; and [0198] wherein when the repeating unit comprises a linker group, then the linker group comprises an independent degradable diacyl group attached to both the nitrogen and the sulfur atoms of the linker group if n is greater than 1, wherein the first group in the repeating unit is a degradable diacyl group, wherein for each linker group, the next repeating unit comprises two degradable diacyl groups attached to the nitrogen atom of the linker group; and wherein n is the number of linker groups present in the repeating unit; and [0199] the terminating group has the formula:

##STR00017## [0200] wherein: [0201] Y.sub.4 is alkanediyl.sub.(C18) or an alkanediyl.sub.(C18) wherein one or more of the hydrogen atoms on the alkanediyl.sub.(C18) has been replaced with OH, F, Cl, Br, I, SH, OCH.sub.3, OCH.sub.2CH.sub.3, SCH.sub.3, or OC(O)CH.sub.3; [0202] R.sub.10 is hydrogen, carboxy, hydroxy, or [0203] aryl.sub.(C12), alkylamino.sub.(C12), dialkylamino.sub.(C12), N-heterocycloalkyl.sub.(C12), C(O)N(R.sub.11)-alkanediyl.sub.(C6)-heterocycloalkyl.sub.(C12), C(O)-alkyl-amino.sub.(C12), C(O)-dialkylamino.sub.(C12), C(O)N-heterocyclo-alkyl.sub.(C12), wherein: [0204] R.sub.11 is hydrogen, alkyl.sub.(C6), or substituted alkyl.sub.(C6); [0205] wherein the final degradable diacyl in the chain is attached to a terminating group; [0206] n is 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6; [0207] or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. In some embodiments, the terminating group is further defined by the formula:

##STR00018## [0208] wherein: [0209] Y.sub.4 is alkanediyl.sub.(C18); and [0210] R.sub.10 is hydrogen. In some embodiments, A.sub.1 and A.sub.2 are each independently O or NR.sub.a.

[0211] In some embodiments of the dendrimer or dendron of formula (D-I), the core is further defined by the formula:

##STR00019## [0212] wherein: [0213] X.sub.2 is N(R.sub.5).sub.y; [0214] R.sub.5 is hydrogen or alkyl.sub.(C8), or substituted alkyl.sub.(C8); and [0215] y is 0, 1, or 2, provided that the sum of y and z is 3; [0216] R.sub.2 is amino, hydroxy, or mercapto, or alkylamino.sub.(C12), dialkylamino.sub.(C12), or a substituted version of either of these groups; [0217] b is 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6; and [0218] z is 1, 2, 3; provided that the sum of z and y is 3.

[0219] In some embodiments of the dendrimer or dendron of formula (D-I), the core is further defined by the formula:

##STR00020## [0220] wherein: [0221] X.sub.3 is NR.sub.6, wherein R.sub.6 is hydrogen, alkyl.sub.(C8), or substituted alkyl.sub.(C8), O, or alkylaminodiyl.sub.(C8), alkoxydiyl.sub.(C8), arenediyl.sub.(C8), heteroarenediyl.sub.(C8), heterocycloalkanediyl.sub.(C8), or a substituted version of any of these groups; [0222] R.sub.3 and R.sub.4 are each independently amino, hydroxy, or mercapto, or alkylamino.sub.(C12), dialkylamino.sub.(C12), or a substituted version of either of these groups; or a group of the formula: N(R.sub.f).sub.f(CH.sub.2CH.sub.2N(R.sub.c)).sub.eR.sub.d,

##STR00021## [0223] wherein: [0224] e and f are each independently 1, 2, or 3; provided that the sum of e and f is 3; [0225] R.sub.c, R.sub.d, and R.sub.f are each independently hydrogen, alkyl.sub.(C6), or substituted alkyl.sub.(C6); [0226] c and d are each independently 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6.

[0227] In some embodiments of the dendrimer or dendron of formula (I), the terminating group is represented by the formula:

##STR00022## [0228] wherein: [0229] Y.sub.4 is alkanediyl.sub.(C18); and [0230] R.sub.10 is hydrogen.

[0231] In some embodiments of the dendrimer or dendron of formula (D-I), the core is further defined as:

##STR00023## ##STR00024##

[0232] In some embodiments of the dendrimer or dendron of formula (D-I), the degradable diacyl is further defined as:

##STR00025##

[0233] In some embodiments of the dendrimer or dendron of formula (D-I), the linker is further defined as (D-VI),

##STR00026##

wherein Y.sub.1 is alkanediyl.sub.(C8) or substituted alkanediyl.sub.(C8).

[0234] In some embodiments of the dendrimer or dendron of formula (D-I), the dendrimer or dendron is selected from the group consisting of:

##STR00027## ##STR00028## ##STR00029## ##STR00030## ##STR00031## [0235] and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof.

Dendrimers or Dendrons of Formula (X)

[0236] In some embodiments of the lipid composition, the ionizable cationic lipid is a dendrimer or dendron of the formula

##STR00032##

In some embodiments, the ionizable cationic lipid is a dendrimer or dendron of the formula

##STR00033##

[0237] In some embodiments of the lipid composition, the ionizable cationic lipid is a dendrimer or dendron of a generation) having a structural formula:

##STR00034## [0238] or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein: [0239] (a) the core comprises a structural formula (X.sub.core):

##STR00035## [0240] wherein: [0241] Q is independently at each occurrence a covalent bond, O, S, NR.sup.2, or CR.sup.3aR.sup.3b; [0242] R.sup.2 is independently at each occurrence R.sup.1g or -L.sup.2-NR.sup.1eR.sup.1f; [0243] R.sup.3a and R.sup.3b are each independently at each occurrence hydrogen or an optionally substituted (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.6, such as C.sub.1-C.sub.3) alkyl; [0244] R.sup.1a, R.sup.1b, R.sup.1c, R.sup.1d, R.sup.1e, R.sup.1f, and R.sup.1g (if present) are each independently at each occurrence a point of connection to a branch, hydrogen, or an optionally substituted (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.12) alkyl; [0245] L.sup.0, L.sup.1, and L.sup.2 are each independently at each occurrence selected from a covalent bond, alkylene, heteroalkylene, [alkylene]-[heterocycloalkyl]-[alkylene], [alkylene]-(arylene)-[alkylene], heterocycloalkyl, and arylene; or, [0246] alternatively, part of L.sup.1 form a (e.g., C.sub.4-C.sub.6) heterocycloalkyl (e.g., containing one or two nitrogen atoms and, optionally, an additional heteroatom selected from oxygen and sulfur) with one of R.sup.1c and R.sup.1d; and [0247] x.sup.1 is 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6; and [0248] (b) each branch of the plurality (N) of branches independently comprises a structural formula (X.sub.Branch):

##STR00036## [0249] wherein: [0250] * indicates a point of attachment of the branch to the core; [0251] g is 1, 2, 3, or 4; [0252] Z=2.sup.(g-1); [0253] G=0, when g=1; or G=.sub.i=0.sup.i=g-2 2.sup.i, when g1; [0254] (c) each diacyl group independently comprises a structural formula

##STR00037## wherein: [0255] * indicates a point of attachment of the diacyl group at the proximal end thereof; [0256] ** indicates a point of attachment of the diacyl group at the distal end thereof; [0257] Y.sup.3 is independently at each occurrence an optionally substituted (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.12); alkylene, an optionally substituted (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.12) alkenylene, or an optionally substituted (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.12) arenylene; [0258] A.sup.1 and A2 are each independently at each occurrence O, S, or NR.sup.4, wherein: [0259] R.sup.4 is hydrogen or optionally substituted (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.6) alkyl; [0260] m.sup.1 and m.sup.2 are each independently at each occurrence 1, 2, or 3; and [0261] R.sup.3c, R.sup.3d, R.sup.3e, and R.sup.3f are each independently at each occurrence hydrogen or an optionally substituted (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.8) alkyl; and [0262] (d) each linker group independently comprises a structural formula

##STR00038## [0263] wherein: [0264] ** indicates a point of attachment of the linker to a proximal diacyl group; [0265] *** indicates a point of attachment of the linker to a distal diacyl group; and [0266] Y.sub.1 is independently at each occurrence an optionally substituted (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.12) alkylene, an optionally substituted (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.12) alkenylene, or an optionally substituted (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.12) arenylene; and [0267] (e) each terminating group is independently selected from optionally substituted (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.18, such as C.sub.4-C.sub.18) alkylthiol, and optionally substituted (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.18, such as C.sub.4-C.sub.18) alkenylthiol.

[0268] In some embodiments of X.sub.Cove, Q is independently at each occurrence a covalent bond, O, S, NR.sup.2, or CR.sup.3aR.sup.3b. In some embodiments of X.sub.Core Q is independently at each occurrence a covalent bond. In some embodiments of X.sub.Core Q is independently at each occurrence an O. In some embodiments of X.sub.Core Q is independently at each occurrence a S. In some embodiments of X.sub.Core Q is independently at each occurrence a NR.sup.2 and R.sup.2 is independently at each occurrence R.sup.1g or -L.sup.2-NR.sup.1eR.sup.1f. In some embodiments of X.sub.Core Q is independently at each occurrence a CR.sup.3aR.sup.3b R.sup.3a, and R.sup.3a and R.sup.3b are each independently at each occurrence hydrogen or an optionally substituted alkyl (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.6, such as C.sub.1-C.sub.3).

[0269] In some embodiments of X.sub.Core, R.sup.1a, R.sup.1b, R.sup.1c, R.sup.1d, R.sup.1e, R.sup.1f, and R.sup.1g (if present) are each independently at each occurrence a point of connection to a branch, hydrogen, or an optionally substituted alkyl. In some embodiments of X.sub.Core, R.sup.1a, R.sup.1b, R.sup.1c, R.sup.1d, R.sup.1e, R.sup.1f, and R.sup.1g (if present) are each independently at each occurrence a point of connection to a branch, hydrogen. In some embodiments of X.sub.Core, R.sup.1a, R.sup.1b, R.sup.1c, R.sup.1d, R.sup.1e, R.sup.1f, and R.sup.1g (if present) are each independently at each occurrence a point of connection to a branch an optionally substituted alkyl (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.12).

[0270] In some embodiments of X.sub.Core, L.sup.0, L.sup.1, and L.sup.2 are each independently at each occurrence selected from a covalent bond, alkylene, heteroalkylene, [alkylene]-[heterocycloalkyl]-[alkylene], [alkylene]-(arylene)-[alkylene], heterocycloalkyl, and arylene; or, alternatively, part of Li form a heterocycloalkyl (e.g., C.sub.4-C.sub.6 and containing one or two nitrogen atoms and, optionally, an additional heteroatom selected from oxygen and sulfur) with one of R.sup.1c and R.sup.1d. In some embodiments of X.sub.Core, L.sup.0, L.sup.1, and L.sup.2 are each independently at each occurrence can be a covalent bond. In some embodiments of X.sup.Core, L.sup.0, L.sup.1, and L.sup.2 are each independently at each occurrence can be a hydrogen. In some embodiments of X.sub.Core, L.sup.0, L.sup.1, and L.sup.2 are each independently at each occurrence can be an alkylene (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.12, such as C.sub.1-C.sub.6 or C.sub.1-C.sub.3). In some embodiments of X.sub.Core, L.sup.0, L.sup.1, and L.sup.2 are each independently at each occurrence can be a heteroalkylene (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.12, such as C.sub.1-C.sub.8 or C.sub.1-C.sub.6). In some embodiments of X.sub.Core, L.sup.0, L.sup.1, and L.sup.2 are each independently at each occurrence can be a heteroalkylene (e.g., C.sub.2-C.sub.8 alkyleneoxide, such as oligo(ethyleneoxide)). In some embodiments of X.sub.Core, L.sup.0, L.sup.1, and L.sup.2 are each independently at each occurrence can be a [alkylene]-[heterocycloalkyl]-[alkylene][(e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.6) alkylene]-[(e.g., C.sub.4-C.sub.6) heterocycloalkyl]-[(e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.6) alkylene]. In some embodiments of X.sup.Core, L.sup.0, L.sup.1, and L.sup.2 are each independently at each occurrence can be a [alkylene]-(arylene)-[alkylene][(e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.6) alkylene]-(arylene)-[(e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.6) alkylene]. In some embodiments of X.sup.Core, L.sup.0, L.sup.0, and L.sup.2 are each independently at each occurrence can be a [alkylene]-(arylene)-[alkylene](e.g., [(e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.6) alkylene]-phenylene-[(e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.6) alkylene]). In some embodiments of X.sub.Core, L.sup.0, L.sup.1, and L.sup.2 are each independently at each occurrence can be a heterocycloalkyl (e.g., C.sub.4-C.sub.6heterocycloalkyl). In some embodiments of X.sub.Core, L.sup.0, L.sup.1, and L.sup.2 are each independently at each occurrence can be an arylene (e.g., phenylene). In some embodiments of X.sub.Core, part of L.sup.1 form a heterocycloalkyl with one of R.sup.1c and R.sup.1d. In some embodiments of X.sub.Core, part of L.sup.1 form a heterocycloalkyl (e.g., C.sub.4-C.sub.6 heterocycloalkyl) with one of R.sup.1c and R.sup.1d and the heterocycloalkyl can contain one or two nitrogen atoms and, optionally, an additional heteroatom selected from oxygen and sulfur.

[0271] In some embodiments of X.sub.Core, L.sup.0, L.sup.1, and L.sup.2 are each independently at each occurrence selected from a covalent bond, C.sub.1-C.sub.6 alkylene (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkylene), C.sub.2-C.sub.12 (e.g., C.sub.2-C.sub.8) alkyleneoxide (e.g., oligo(ethyleneoxide), such as (CH.sub.2CH.sub.2O).sub.1-4(CH.sub.2CH.sub.2)), [(C.sub.1-C.sub.4) alkylene]-[(C.sub.4-C.sub.6) heterocycloalkyl]-[(C.sub.1-C.sub.4) alkylene] (e.g.,

##STR00039##

and [(C.sub.1-C.sub.4) alkylene]-phenylene-[(C.sub.1-C.sub.4) alkylene](e.g.,

##STR00040##

In some embodiments of X.sub.Core, L.sup.0, L.sup.1, and L.sup.2 are each independently at each occurrence selected from C.sub.1-C.sub.6 alkylene (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkylene), (C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkylene-O).sub.1-4(C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkylene), (C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkylene)-phenylene-(C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkylene)-, and (C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkylene)-piperazinyl-(C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkylene)-. In some embodiments of X.sub.Core, L.sup.0, L.sup.1, and L.sup.2 are each independently at each occurrence C.sub.1-C.sub.6 alkylene (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkylene). In some embodiments, L.sup.0, L.sup.1, and L.sup.2 are each independently at each occurrence C.sub.2-C.sub.12 (e.g., C.sub.2-C.sub.8) alkyleneoxide (e.g., (C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkylene-O).sub.1-4(C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkylene)). In some embodiments of X.sub.Core, L.sup.0, L.sup.1, and L.sup.2 are each independently at each occurrence selected from [(C.sub.1-C.sub.4) alkylene]-[(C.sub.4-C.sub.6) heterocycloalkyl]-[(C.sub.1-C.sub.4) alkylene](e.g., (C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkylene)-phenylene-(C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkylene)-) and [(C.sub.1-C.sub.4) alkylene]-[(C.sub.4-C.sub.6) heterocycloalkyl]-[(C.sub.1-C.sub.4) alkylene](e.g., (C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkylene)-piperazinyl-(C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkylene)-).

[0272] In some embodiments of X.sub.Core, x.sup.1 is 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6. In some embodiments of X.sub.Core, x.sup.1 is 0. In some embodiments of X.sub.Core, x.sup.1 is 1. In some embodiments of X.sub.Core, x.sup.1 is 2. In some embodiments of X.sub.Core x.sup.1 is 0, 3. In some embodiments of X.sup.Core x.sup.1 is 4. In some embodiments of X.sup.Core x.sup.1 is 5. In some embodiments of X.sup.Core, x.sup.1 is 6.

[0273] In some embodiments of X.sup.Core, the core comprises a structural formula:

##STR00041##

In some embodiments of X.sup.Core, the core comprises a structural formula:

##STR00042##

In some embodiments of X.sup.Core, the core comprises a structural formula:

##STR00043##

In some embodiments of X.sub.Core, the core comprises a structural formula:

##STR00044##

In some embodiments of X.sub.Core, the core comprises a structural formula:

##STR00045##

In some embodiments of X.sub.Core, the core comprises a structural formula:

##STR00046##

In some embodiments of X.sub.Core, the core comprises a structural formula:

##STR00047##

In some embodiments of X.sub.Core, the core comprises a structural formula:

##STR00048##

wherein Q is NR.sup.2 or CR.sup.3aR.sup.3b; q.sup.1 and q.sup.2 are each independently 1 or 2. In some embodiments of X.sub.Core, the core comprises a structural formula:

##STR00049##

In some embodiments of X.sub.Core, the core comprises a structural formula

##STR00050##

wherein ring A is an optionally substituted aryl or an optionally substituted (e.g., C.sub.3-C.sub.12, such as C.sub.3-C.sub.5) heteroaryl. In some embodiments of X.sub.Core, the core comprises has a structural formula Ric

##STR00051##

[0274] In some embodiments of X.sub.Core, the core comprises a structural formula set forth in Table. 1 and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, wherein * indicates a point of attachment of the core to a branch of the plurality of branches. In some embodiments, the example cores of Table. 1 are not limited to the stereoisomers (i.e. enantiomers, diastereomers) listed.

TABLE-US-00004 TABLE 1 Example core structures ID # Structure 1A1 [00052] 1A2-1 [00053] 1A2-2 [00054] 1A3-1 [00055] 1A3-2 [00056] 1A4 [00057] 1A5-1 [00058] 1A5-2 [00059] 2A1-1 [00060] 2A1-2 [00061] 2A2-1 [00062] 2A2-2 [00063] 2A3 [00064] 2A4 [00065] 2A5 [00066] 2A6 [00067] 2A7-1 [00068] 2A7-2 [00069] 2A8 [00070] 2A9 [00071] 2A9V [00072] 2A10 [00073] 2A11 [00074] 2A12 [00075] 3A1 [00076] 3A2 [00077] 3A3 [00078] 3A4 [00079] 3A5 [00080] 3A6 [00081] 3A7 [00082] 4A1 [00083] 4A2 [00084] 4A3 [00085] 4A4 [00086] 5A1 [00087] 5A2-1 (5-arm) [00088] 5A2-2 (5-arm) [00089] 5A2-3 (5-arm) [00090] 5A2-4 (5-arm) [00091] 5A3-1 (5-arm) [00092] 5A4-1 (5-arm) [00093] 5A5 [00094] 5A6 [00095] 5A2-4 (6-arm) [00096] 5A2-5 (6 arm) [00097] 5A2-6 (6 arm) [00098] 5A3-2 (6 arm) [00099] 5A4-2 (6 arm) [00100] 6A4 [00101] 1H1 [00102] 1H2 [00103] 1H3 [00104] 2H1 [00105] 2H2 [00106] 2H3 [00107] 2H4 [00108] 2H5 [00109] 2H6 [00110]

[0275] In some embodiments of X.sub.Core, the core comprises a structural formula selected from the group consisting of:

##STR00111## ##STR00112## ##STR00113##

and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, wherein * indicates a point of attachment of the core to a branch of the plurality of branches or H. In some embodiments, wherein * indicates a point of attachment of the core to a branch of the plurality of branches.

[0276] In some embodiments of X.sub.Core, the core has the structure

##STR00114##

wherein * indicates a point of attachment of the core to a branch of the plurality of branches or H. In some embodiments, at least 2 branches are attached to the core. In some embodiments, at least 3 branches are attached to the core. In some embodiments, at least 4 branches are attached to the core.

[0277] In some embodiments of X.sub.Core, the core has the structure

##STR00115##

wherein * indicates a point of attachment of the core to a branch of the plurality of branches or H. In some embodiments, at least 4 branches are attached to the core. In some embodiments, at least 5 branches are attached to the core. In some embodiments, at least 6 branches are attached to the core.

[0278] In some embodiments, the plurality (N) of branches comprises at least 3 branches, at least 4 branches, at least 5 branches. In some embodiments, the plurality (N) of branches comprises at least 3 branches. In some embodiments, the plurality (N) of branches comprises at least 4 branches. In some embodiments, the plurality (N) of branches comprises at least 5 branches.

[0279] In some embodiments of X.sub.Branch, g is 1, 2, 3, or 4. In some embodiments of X.sub.Branch, g is 1. In some embodiments of X.sub.Branch, g is 2. In some embodiments of X.sub.Brach, g is 3. In some embodiments of X.sub.Branch, g is 4.

[0280] In some embodiments of X.sub.Branch, Z=2.sup.(g-1) and when g=1, G=0. In some embodiments of X.sub.Branch, Z=2.sup.(g-1) and G=.sub.i=0.sup.i=g-2 2.sup.i, when g1.

[0281] In some embodiments of X.sub.Branch, g=1, G=0, Z=1, and each branch of the plurality of branches comprises a structural formula each branch of the plurality of branches comprises a structural formula

##STR00116##

[0282] In some embodiments of X.sub.Branch, g=2, G=1, Z=2, and each branch of the plurality of branches comprises a structural formula

##STR00117##

[0283] In some embodiments of X.sub.Branch, g=3, G=3, Z=4, and each branch of the plurality of branches comprises a structural formula

##STR00118##

[0284] In some embodiments of X.sub.Branch, g=4, G=7, Z=8, and each branch of the plurality of branches comprises a structural formula

##STR00119##

[0285] In some embodiments, the dendrimers or dendrons described herein with a generation (g)=1 has the structure:

##STR00120##

[0286] In some embodiments, the dendrimers or dendrons described herein with a generation (g)=1 has the structure:

##STR00121##

[0287] An example formulation of the dendrimers or dendrons described herein for generations 1-4 is shown in Table 2. The number of diacyl groups, linker groups, and terminating groups can be calculated based on g.

TABLE-US-00005 TABLE 2 Formulation of Dendrimer or Dendron Groups Based on Generation (g) g = 1 g = 2 g = 3 g = 4 # of diacyl grp 1 1 + 2 = 3 1 + 2 + 2.sup.2 = 7 1 + 2 + 2.sup.2 + 2.sup.3 = 15 1 + 2 + . . . + 2.sup.g1 # of linker grp 0 1 1 + 2 1 + 2 + 2.sup.2 1 + 2 + . . . + 2.sup.g2 # of terminating grp 1 2 2.sup.2 2.sup.3 2.sup.(g1)

[0288] In some embodiments, the diacyl group independently comprises a structural formula

##STR00122##

* indicates a point of attachment of the diacyl group at the proximal end thereof, and ** indicates a point of attachment of the diacyl group at the distal end thereof.

[0289] In some embodiments of the diacyl group of X.sub.Branch, Y.sup.3 is independently at each occurrence an optionally substituted; alkylene, an optionally substituted alkenylene, or an optionally substituted arenylene. In some embodiments of the diacyl group of X.sub.Branch, Y.sup.3 is independently at each occurrence an optionally substituted alkylene (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.12). In some embodiments of the diacyl group of X.sub.Branch, Y.sup.3 is independently at each occurrence an optionally substituted alkenylene (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.12). In some embodiments of the diacyl group of X.sub.Branch, Y.sup.3 is independently at each occurrence an optionally substituted arenylene (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.12).

[0290] In some embodiments of the diacyl group of X.sub.Branch, A.sup.1 and A.sup.2 are each independently at each occurrence O, S, or NR.sup.4. In some embodiments of the diacyl group of X.sub.Branch, A.sup.1 and A.sup.2 are each independently at each occurrence O. In some embodiments of the diacyl group of X.sub.Branch, A.sup.1 and A.sup.2 are each independently at each occurrence S. In some embodiments of the diacyl group of X.sub.Branch, A.sup.1 and A.sup.2 are each independently at each occurrence NR.sup.4 and R.sup.4 is hydrogen or optionally substituted alkyl (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.6). In some embodiments of the diacyl group of X.sub.Branch, m.sup.1 and m.sup.2 are each independently at each occurrence 1, 2, or 3. In some embodiments of the diacyl group of X.sup.Branch, m.sup.1 and m.sup.2 are each independently at each occurrence 1. In some embodiments of the diacyl group of X.sub.Branch, m.sup.1 and m.sup.2 are each independently at each occurrence 2. In some embodiments of the diacyl group of X.sub.Branch, m.sup.1 and m.sup.2 are each independently at each occurrence 3. In some embodiments of the diacyl group of X.sup.Branch, R.sup.3c, R.sup.3d, R.sup.3e, and R.sup.3f are each independently at each occurrence hydrogen or an optionally substituted alkyl. In some embodiments of the diacyl group of X.sub.Branch, R.sup.3c, R.sup.3d, R.sup.3e, and R.sup.3f are each independently at each occurrence hydrogen. In some embodiments of the diacyl group of X.sub.Branch, R.sup.3c, R.sup.3d, R.sup.3e, and R.sup.3f are each independently at each occurrence an optionally substituted (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.8) alkyl.

[0291] In some embodiments of the diacyl group, A.sup.1 is O or NH. In some embodiments of the diacyl group, A.sup.1 is O. In some embodiments of the diacyl group, A.sup.2 is O or NH. In some embodiments of the diacyl group, A.sup.2 is O. In some embodiments of the diacyl group, Y.sup.3 is C.sub.1-C.sub.12 (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.6, such as C.sub.1-C.sub.3) alkylene.

[0292] In some embodiments of the diacyl group, the diacyl group independently at each occurrence comprises a structural formula

##STR00123##

and optionally R.sup.3c, R.sup.3d, R.sup.3e, and R.sup.3f are each independently at each occurrence hydrogen or C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkyl.

[0293] In some embodiments, linker group independently comprises a structural formula,

##STR00124##

** indicates a point of attachment of the linker to a proximal diacyl group, and *** indicates a point of attachment of the linker to a distal diacyl group.

[0294] In some embodiments of the linker group of X.sub.Branch if present, Y.sub.1 is independently at each occurrence an optionally substituted alkylene, an optionally substituted alkenylene, or an optionally substituted arenylene. In some embodiments of the linker group of X.sub.Branch if present, Y.sub.1 is independently at each occurrence an optionally substituted alkylene (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.12). In some embodiments of the linker group of X.sub.Branch if present, Y.sub.1 is independently at each occurrence an optionally substituted alkenylene (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.12). In some embodiments of the linker group of X.sub.Branch if present, Y.sub.1 is independently at each occurrence an optionally substituted arenylene (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.12).

[0295] In some embodiments of the terminating group of X.sub.Branch, each terminating group is independently selected from optionally substituted alkylthiol and optionally substituted alkenylthiol. In some embodiments of the terminating group of X.sub.Branch, each terminating group is an optionally substituted alkylthiol (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.18, such as C.sub.4-C.sub.18). In some embodiments of the terminating group of X.sub.Branch, each terminating group is optionally substituted alkenylthiol (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.18, such as C.sub.4-C.sub.18).

[0296] In some embodiments of the terminating group of X.sub.Branch, each terminating group is independently C.sub.1-C.sub.18 alkenylthiol or C.sub.1-C.sub.18 alkylthiol, and the alkyl or alkenyl moiety is optionally substituted with one or more substituents each independently selected from halogen, C.sub.6-C.sub.12 aryl, C.sub.1-C.sub.12 alkylamino, C.sub.4-C.sub.6 N-heterocycloalkyl, OH, C(O)OH, C(O)N(C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkyl)-(C.sub.1-C.sub.6 alkylene)-(C.sub.1-C.sub.12 alkylamino), C(O)N(C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkyl)-(C.sub.1-C.sub.6 alkylene)-(C.sub.4-C.sub.6 N-heterocycloalkyl), C(O)(C.sub.1-C.sub.12 alkylamino), and C(O)(C.sub.4-C.sub.6 N-heterocycloalkyl), and the C.sub.4-C.sub.6 N-heterocycloalkyl moiety of any of the preceding substituents is optionally substituted with C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkyl or C.sub.1-C.sub.3 hydroxyalkyl.

[0297] In some embodiments of the terminating group of X.sub.Branch, each terminating group is independently C.sub.1-C.sub.18 (e.g., C.sub.4-C.sub.18) alkenylthiol or C.sub.1-C.sub.18 (e.g., C.sub.4-C.sub.18) alkylthiol, wherein the alkyl or alkenyl moiety is optionally substituted with one or more substituents each independently selected from halogen, C.sub.6-C.sub.12 aryl (e.g., phenyl), C.sub.1-C.sub.12 (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.8) alkylamino (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.6 mono-alkylamino (such as NHCH.sub.2CH.sub.2CH.sub.2CH.sub.3) or C.sub.1-C.sub.8 di-alkylamino (such as

##STR00125##

C.sub.4-C.sub.6 N-heterocycloalkyl (e.g., N-pyrrolidinyl

##STR00126##

N-piperidinyl

##STR00127##

N-azepanyl

##STR00128##

OH, C(O)OH, C(O)N(C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkyl)-(C.sub.1-C.sub.6 alkylene)-(C.sub.1-C.sub.12 alkylamino (e.g., mono- or di-alkylamino))

##STR00129##

C(O)N(C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkyl)-(C.sub.1-C.sub.6 alkylene)-(C.sub.4-C.sub.6 N-heterocycloalkyl)

##STR00130##

C(O)(C.sub.1-C.sub.12 alkylamino (e.g., mono- or di-alkylamino)), and C(O)(C.sub.4-C.sub.6 N-heterocycloalkyl)

##STR00131##

wherein the C.sub.4-C.sub.6 N-heterocycloalkyl moiety of any of the preceding substituents is optionally substituted with C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkyl or C.sub.1-C.sub.3 hydroxyalkyl. In some embodiments of the terminating group of X.sub.Branch, each terminating group is independently C.sub.1-C.sub.18 (e.g., C.sub.4-C.sub.18) alkylthiol, wherein the alkyl moiety is optionally substituted with one substituent OH. In some embodiments of the terminating group of X.sub.Branch, each terminating group is independently C.sub.1-C.sub.18 (e.g., C.sub.4-C.sub.18) alkylthiol, wherein the alkyl moiety is optionally substituted with one substituent selected from C.sub.1-C.sub.12 (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.8) alkylamino (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.6 mono-alkylamino (such as NHCH.sub.2CH.sub.2CH.sub.2CH.sub.3) or C.sub.1-C.sub.8 di-alkylamino (such as

##STR00132##

and C.sub.4-C.sub.6 N-heterocycloalkyl (e.g., N-pyrrolidinyl

##STR00133##

N-piperidinyl

##STR00134##

N-azepanyl

##STR00135##

In some embodiments of the terminating group of X.sub.Branch, each terminating group is independently C.sub.1-C.sub.18 (e.g., C.sub.4-C.sub.18) alkenylthiol or C.sub.1-C.sub.18 (e.g., C.sub.4-C.sub.18) alkylthiol. In some embodiments of the terminating group of X.sub.Branch, each terminating group is independently C.sub.1-C.sub.18 (e.g., C.sub.4-C.sub.18) alkylthiol.

[0298] In some embodiments of the terminating group of X.sub.Branch, each terminating group is independently a structural set forth in Table 3. In some embodiments, the dendrimers or dendrons described herein can comprise a terminating group or pharmaceutically acceptable salt, or thereof selected in Table 3. In some embodiments, the example terminating group of Table 3 are not limiting of the stereoisomers (i.e. enantiomers, diastereomers) listed.

TABLE-US-00006 TABLE 3 Example terminating group/peripheries structures ID # Structure SC1 [00136] SC2 [00137] SC3 [00138] SC4 [00139] SC5 [00140] SC6 [00141] SC7 [00142] SC8 [00143] SC9 [00144] SC10 [00145] SC11 [00146] SC12 [00147] SC14 [00148] SC16 [00149] SC18 [00150] SC19 [00151] SO1 [00152] SO2 [00153] SO3 [00154] SO4 [00155] SO5 [00156] SO6 [00157] SO7 [00158] SO8 [00159] SO9 [00160] SN1 [00161] SN2 [00162] SN3 [00163] SN4 [00164] SN5 [00165] SN6 [00166] SN7 [00167] SN8 [00168] SN9 [00169] SN10 [00170] SN11 [00171]

[0299] In some embodiments, the dendrimer or dendron of Formula (X) is selected from those set forth in Table 4 and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof.

TABLE-US-00007 TABLE 4 Example ionizable cationic lipo-dendrimers ID # Structure 2A2-SC14 [00172] 2A6-SC14 [00173] 2A9-SC14 [00174] 3A3-SC10 [00175] 3A3-SC14 [00176] 3A5-SC10 [00177] 3A5-SC14 [00178] 4A1-SC12 [00179] 4A3-SC12 [00180] 5A1-SC12 [00181] 5A1-SC8 [00182] 5A2-2-SC12 (5-arm) [00183] 5A3-1-SC12 (5-arm) [00184] 5A3-1-SC8 (5-arm) [00185] 5A4-1-SC12 (5-arm) [00186] 5A4-1-SC8 (5-arm) [00187] 5A5-SC8 [00188] 5A5-SC12 [00189] 5A2-4-SC12 (6-arm) [00190] 5A2-4-SC10 (6-arm) [00191] 5A3-2--SC8 (6-arm) [00192] 5A3-2-SC12 (6-arm) [00193] 5A4-2-SC8 (6-arm) [00194] 5A4-2-SC12 (6-arm) [00195] 6A4-SC8 [00196] 6A4-SC12 [00197] 2A2-g2-SC12 [00198] 2A2-g2-SC8 [00199] 2A11-g2-SC12 [00200] 2A11-g2-SC8 [00201] 3A3-g2-SC12 [00202] 3A3-g2-SC8 [00203] 3A5-g2-SC12 [00204] 2A11-g3-SC12 [00205] 2A11-g3-SC8 [00206] 1A2-g4-SC12 [00207] 4A1-g2-SC12 [00208] 1A2-g4-SC8 [00209] 4A1-g2-SC8 [00210] 4A3-g2-SC12 [00211] 4A3-g2-SC8 [00212] 1A2-g3-SC12 [00213] 1A2-g3-SC8 [00214] 2A2-g3-SC12 [00215] 2A2-g3-SC8 [00216] 5A2-4-SC8 (6-arm) [00217] 5A-5-SC8 (6 arm) [00218] 5A2-6-SC8 (6 arm) [00219] 5A2-1-SC8 (5-arm) [00220] 5A2-2-SC8 [00221] 4A1-SC5 [00222] 4A1-SC8 [00223] 4A3-SC6 [00224] 4A3-SC7 [00225] 4A3-SC8 [00226] 5A4-2-SC5 (6 arm) [00227] 5A4-2-SC6 (6 arm) [00228] 5A2-4-SC8 (5-arm) [00229] 3A5-g2-SC8 [00230]

Other Ionizable Cationic Lipids

[0300] In some embodiments of the lipid composition, the cationic lipid comprises a structural formula (D-I):

##STR00231##

wherein: [0301] a is 1 and b is 2, 3, or 4; or, alternatively, b is 1 and a is 2, 3, or 4; [0302] m is 1 and n is 1; or, alternatively, m is 2 and n is 0; or, alternatively, m is 2 and n is 1; and [0303] R.sup.1, R.sup.2, R.sup.3, R.sup.4, R.sup.5, and R.sup.6 are each independently selected from the group consisting of H, CH.sub.2CH(OH)R.sup.7, CH(R.sup.7)CH.sub.2OH, CH.sub.2CH.sub.2C(O)OR.sup.7, CH.sub.2CH.sub.2C(O)NHR.sup.7, and CH.sub.2R.sup.7, wherein R.sup.7 is independently selected from C.sub.3-C.sub.18 alkyl, C.sub.3-C.sub.18 alkenyl having one CC double bond, a protecting group for an amino group, C(NH)NH.sub.2, a poly(ethylene glycol) chain, and a receptor ligand; [0304] provided that at least two moieties among R.sup.1 to R.sup.6 are independently selected from CH.sub.2CH(OH)R.sup.7, CH(R.sup.7)CH.sub.2OH, CH.sub.2CH.sub.2C(O)OR.sup.7, CH.sub.2CH.sub.2C(O)NHR.sup.7, or CH.sub.2R.sup.7, wherein R.sup.7 is independently selected from C.sub.3-C.sub.18 alkyl or C.sub.3-C.sub.18 alkenyl having one CC double bond; and [0305] wherein one or more of the nitrogen atoms indicated in formula (D-I) may be protonated to provide a cationic lipid.

[0306] In some embodiments of the cationic lipid of formula (D-I), a is 1. In some embodiments of the cationic lipid of formula (D-I), b is 2. In some embodiments of the cationic lipid of formula (D-I), m is 1. In some embodiments of the cationic lipid of formula (D-I), n is 1. In some embodiments of the cationic lipid of formula (D-I), R.sup.1, R.sup.2, R.sup.3, R.sup.4, R.sup.5, and R.sup.6 are each independently H or CH.sub.2CH(OH)R.sup.7. In some embodiments of the cationic lipid of formula (D-I), R.sup.1, R.sup.2, R.sup.3, R.sup.4, R.sup.5, and R.sup.6 are each independently H or

##STR00232##

In some embodiments of the cationic lipid of formula (D-I), R.sup.1, R.sup.2, R.sup.3, R.sup.4, R.sup.5, and R.sup.6 are each independently H or

##STR00233##

In some embodiments of the cationic lipid of formula (D-I), R.sup.7 is C.sub.3-C.sub.18 alkyl (e.g., C.sub.6-C.sub.12 alkyl).

[0307] In some embodiments, the cationic lipid of formula (D-I) is 13,16,20-tris(2-hydroxydodecyl)-13,16,20,23-tetraazapentatricontane-11,25-diol:

##STR00234##

[0308] In some embodiments, the cationic lipid of formula (D-I) is (11R,25R)-13,16,20-tris((R)-2-hydroxydodecyl)-13,16,20,23-tetraazpentatricontane-11,25-diol:

##STR00235##

[0309] Additional cationic lipids that can be used in the compositions and methods of the present application include those cationic lipids as described in J. McClellan, M. C. King, Cell 2010, 141, 210-217, and International Patent Publication WO 2010/144740, WO 2013/149140, WO 2016/118725, WO 2016/118724, WO 2013/063468, WO 2016/205691, WO 2015/184256, WO 2016/004202, WO 2015/199952, WO 2017/004143, WO 2017/075531, WO 2017/117528, WO 2017/049245, WO 2017/173054 and WO 2015/095340, which are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. Examples of those ionizable cationic lipids include but are not limited to those as shown in Table 5.

TABLE-US-00008 TABLE 5 Example ionizable cationic lipids # Structure of example ionizable cationic lipid 1 [00236] 2 [00237] 3 [00238] 4 [00239] 5 [00240] 6 [00241] 7 [00242] 8 [00243] 9 [00244] 10 [00245] 11 [00246] 12 [00247] 13 [00248] 14 [00249] 15 [00250] 16 [00251] 17 [00252] 18 [00253] 19 [00254] 20 [00255] 21 [00256] 22 [00257] 23 [00258] 24 [00259] 25 [00260] 26 [00261] 27 [00262] 28 [00263] 29 [00264] 30 [00265] 31 [00266] 32 [00267] 33 [00268] 34 [00269] 35 [00270] 36 [00271] 37 [00272] 38 [00273] 39 [00274] 40 [00275] 41 [00276] 42 [00277] 43 [00278] 44 [00279] 45 [00280] 46 [00281] 47 [00282] 48 [00283] 49 [00284] 50 [00285] 51 [00286] 52 [00287] 53 [00288] 54 [00289] 55 [00290] 56 [00291] 57 [00292] 58 [00293] 59 [00294] 60 [00295] 61 [00296] 62 [00297] 63 [00298] 64 [00299] 65 [00300] 66 [00301] 67 [00302] 68 [00303] 69 [00304] 70 [00305] 71 [00306] 72 [00307] 73 [00308] (HGT4002) 74 [00309] 75 [00310] 76 [00311] [00312]

[0310] In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the ionizable cationic lipid is present in an amount from about from about 20 to about 23. In some embodiments, the molar or weight percentage is from about 20, 20.5, 21, 21.5, 22, 22.5, to about 23 or any range derivable therein. In other embodiments, the molar or weight percentage is from about 7.5 to about 20. In some embodiments, the molar or weight percentage is from about 7.5, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, to about 20 or any range derivable therein.

[0311] In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises the ionizable cationic lipid at a molar or weight percentage from about 5% to about 30%. In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises the ionizable cationic lipid at a molar or weight percentage from about 10% to about 25%. In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises the ionizable cationic lipid at a molar or weight percentage from about 15% to about 20%. In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises the ionizable cationic lipid at a molar or weight percentage from about 10% to about 20%. In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises the ionizable cationic lipid at a molar or weight percentage from about 20% to about 30%. In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises the ionizable cationic lipid at a molar or weight percentage of at least (about) 5%, at least (about) 10%, at least (about) 15%, at least (about) 20%, at least (about) 25%, or at least (about) 30%. In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises the ionizable cationic lipid at a molar or weight percentage of at most (about) 5%, at most (about) 10%, at most (about) 15%, at most (about) 20%, at most (about) 25%, or at most (about) 30%.

Selective Organ Targeting (SORT) Lipids

[0312] In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the lipid (e.g., nanoparticle) composition is preferentially delivered to a target organ. In some embodiments, the target organ is a lung, a lung tissue or a lung cell. As used herein, the term preferentially delivered is used to refer to a composition, upon being delivered, which is delivered to the target organ (e.g., lung), tissue, or cell in at least 25% (e.g., at least 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, or 75%) of the amount administered.

[0313] In some embodiments of the lipid composition, the lipid composition comprises one or more selective organ targeting (SORT) lipid which leads to the selective delivery of the composition to a particular organ. In some embodiments, the SORT lipid may have two or more alkyl or alkenyl chains of C.sub.6-C.sub.24.

[0314] In some embodiments of the lipid compositions, the SORT lipid comprises permanently positively charged moiety. The permanently positively charged moiety may be positively charged at a physiological pH such that the SORT lipid comprises a positive charge upon delivery of a polynucleotide to a cell. In some embodiments the positively charged moiety is quaternary amine or quaternary ammonium ion. In some embodiments, the SORT lipid comprises, or is otherwise complexed to or interacting with, a counterion.

[0315] In some embodiments of the lipid compositions, the SORT lipid is a permanently cationic lipid (i.e., comprising one or more hydrophobic components and a permanently cationic group). The permanently cationic lipid may contain a group which has a positive charge regardless of the pH. One permanently cationic group that may be used in the permanently cationic lipid is a quaternary ammonium group. The permanently cationic lipid may comprise a structural formula:

##STR00313##

wherein: [0316] Y.sub.1, Y.sub.2, or Y.sub.3 are each independently X.sub.1C(O)R.sub.1 or X.sub.2N.sup.+R.sub.3R.sub.4R.sub.5; [0317] provided at least one of Y.sub.1, Y.sub.2, and Y.sub.3 is X.sub.2N.sup.+R.sub.3R.sub.4R.sub.5; [0318] R.sub.1 is C.sub.1-C.sub.24 alkyl, C.sub.1-C.sub.24 substituted alkyl, C.sub.1-C.sub.24 alkenyl, C.sub.1-C.sub.24 substituted alkenyl; [0319] X.sub.1 is O or NR.sub.a, wherein R.sub.a is hydrogen, C.sub.1-C.sub.4 alkyl, or C.sub.1-C.sub.4 substituted alkyl; [0320] X.sub.2 is C.sub.1-C.sub.6 alkanediyl or C.sub.1-C.sub.6 substituted alkanediyl; [0321] R.sub.3, R.sub.4, and R.sub.5 are each independently C.sub.1-C.sub.24 alkyl, C.sub.1-C.sub.24 substituted alkyl, C.sub.1-C.sub.24 alkenyl, C.sub.1-C.sub.24 substituted alkenyl; and [0322] A.sub.1 is an anion with a charge equal to the number of X.sub.2N.sup.+R.sub.3R.sub.4R.sub.5 groups in the compound.

[0323] In some embodiments of the SORT lipids, the permanently cationic SORT lipid has a structural formula:

##STR00314##

wherein: [0324] R.sub.6-R.sub.9 are each independently C.sub.1-C.sub.24 alkyl, C.sub.1-C.sub.24 substituted alkyl, C.sub.1-C.sub.24 alkenyl, C.sub.1-C.sub.24 substituted alkenyl; provided at least one of R.sub.6-R.sub.9 is a group of C.sub.8-C.sub.24; and [0325] A.sub.2 is a monovalent anion.

[0326] In some embodiments of the lipid compositions, the SORT lipid is ionizable cationic lipid (i.e., comprising one or more hydrophobic components and an ionizable cationic group). The ionizable positively charged moiety may be positively charged at a physiological pH. One ionizable cationic group that may be used in the ionizable cationic lipid is a tertiary ammine group. In some embodiments of the lipid compositions, the SORT lipid has a structural formula:

##STR00315##

wherein: [0327] R.sub.1 and R.sub.2 are each independently alkyl.sub.(C8-C24), alkenyl.sub.(C8-C24), or a substituted version of either group; and [0328] R.sub.3 and R.sub.3 are each independently alkyl.sub.(C6) or substituted alkyl.sub.(C6).

[0329] In some embodiments of the lipid compositions, the SORT lipid comprises a head group of a particular structure. In some embodiments, the SORT lipid comprises a headgroup having a structural formula:

##STR00316##

wherein L is a linker, Z.sup.+ is positively charged moiety and X.sup. is a counterion. In some embodiment, the linker is a biodegradable linker. The biodegradable linker may be degradable under physiological pH and temperature.

[0330] The biodegradable linker may be degraded by proteins or enzymes from a subject. In some embodiments, the positively charged moiety is a quaternary ammonium ion or quaternary amine.

[0331] In some embodiments of the lipid compositions, the SORT lipid has a structural formula:

##STR00317##

wherein R.sup.1 and R.sup.2 are each independently an optionally substituted C.sub.6-C.sub.24 alkyl, or an optionally substituted C.sub.6-C.sub.24 alkenyl.

[0332] In some embodiments of the lipid compositions, the SORT lipid has a structural formula:

##STR00318##

[0333] In some embodiments of the lipid compositions, the SORT lipid comprises a Linker (L). In some embodiments, L is

##STR00319##

wherein: [0334] p and q are each independently 1, 2, or 3; and [0335] R.sup.4 is an optionally substituted C.sub.1-C.sub.6 alkyl

[0336] In some embodiments of the lipid compositions, the SORT lipid has a structural formula:

##STR00320##

wherein: [0337] R.sub.1 and R.sub.2 are each independently alkyl.sub.(C8-C24), alkenyl.sub.(C8-C24), or a substituted version of either group; [0338] R.sub.3, R.sub.3, and R.sub.3 are each independently alkyl.sub.(C6) or substituted alkyl.sub.(C6); [0339] R.sub.4 is alkyl.sub.(C6) or substituted alkyl.sub.(C6); and [0340] X.sup. is a monovalent anion.

[0341] In some embodiments of the lipid compositions, the SORT lipid is a phosphaddylcholine (e.g., 14:0 EPC). In some embodiments, the phosphatidylcholine compound is further defined as:

##STR00321##

wherein: [0342] R.sub.1 and R.sub.2 are each independently alkyl.sub.(C8-C24), alkenyl(c.sub.8-C24), or a substituted version of either group; [0343] R.sub.3, R.sub.3, and R.sub.3 are each independently alkyl.sub.(C6) or substituted alkyl.sub.(C6); and [0344] X.sup. is a monovalent anion.

[0345] In some embodiments of the lipid compositions, the SORT lipid is a phosphocholine lipid. In some embodiments, the SORT lipid is an ethylphosphocholine. The ethylphosphocholine may be, by way of example, without being limited to, 1,2-dimyristoleoyl-sn-glycero-3-ethylphosphocholine, 1,2-dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3-ethylphosphocholine, 1,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-ethylphosphocholine, 1,2-dipalmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-ethylphosphocholine, 1,2-dimyristoyl-sn-glycero-3-ethylphosphocholine, 1,2-dilauroyl-sn-glycero-3-ethylphosphocholine, 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-ethylphosphocholine.

[0346] In some embodiments of the lipid compositions, the SORT lipid has a structural formula:

##STR00322##

wherein: [0347] R.sub.1 and R.sub.2 are each independently alkyl.sub.(C8-C24), alkenyl.sub.(C8-C24), or a substituted version of either group; [0348] R.sub.3, R.sub.3, and R.sub.3 are each independently alkyl.sub.(C6) or substituted alkyl.sub.(C6); [0349] X.sup. is a monovalent anion.

[0350] By way of example, and without being limited thereto, a SORT lipid of the structural formula of the immediately preceding paragraph is 1,2-dioleoyl-3-trimethylammonium-propane (18:1 DOTAP) (e.g., chloride salt).

[0351] In some embodiments of the lipid compositions, the SORT lipid has a structural formula:

##STR00323##

wherein: [0352] R.sub.4 and R.sub.4 are each independently alkyl.sub.(C6-C24), alkenyl.sub.(C6-C24), or a substituted version of either group; [0353] R.sub.4 is alkyl.sub.(C24), alkenyl.sub.(C24), or a substituted version of either group; [0354] R.sub.4 is alkyl.sub.(C1-C8), alkenyl.sub.(C2-C8), or a substituted version of either group; and [0355] X.sub.2 is a monovalent anion.

[0356] By way of example, and without being limited thereto, a SORT lipid of the structural formula of the immediately preceding paragraph is dimethyldioctadecylammonium (DDAB) (e.g., bromide salt).

[0357] In some embodiments of the lipid compositions, the SORT lipid has a structural formula:

##STR00324##

wherein: [0358] R.sub.1 and R.sub.2 are each independently alkyl.sub.(C8-C24), alkenyl.sub.(C8-C24), or a substituted version of either group; [0359] R.sub.3, R.sub.3, and R.sub.3 are each independently alkyl.sub.(C6) or substituted alkyl.sub.(C6); and [0360] X.sup. is a monovalent anion.

[0361] By way of example, and without being limited thereto, a SORT lipid of the structural formula of the immediately preceding paragraph is N-[1-(2, 3-dioleyloxy)propyl]-N,N,N-trimethylammonium chloride (DOTMA).

[0362] In some embodiments of the lipid compositions, the SORT lipid is an anionic lipid. In some embodiments of the lipid compositions, the SORT lipid has a structural formula:

##STR00325##

wherein: [0363] R.sub.1 and R.sub.2 are each independently alkyl.sub.(C8-C24), alkenyl.sub.(C8-C24), or a substituted version of either group; [0364] R.sub.3 is hydrogen, alkyl.sub.(C6), or substituted alkyl.sub.(C6), or Y.sub.1R.sub.4, wherein: Y.sub.1 is alkanediyl.sub.(C6) or substituted alkanediyl.sub.(C6); and [0365] R.sub.4 is acyloxy.sub.(C8-C24) or substituted acyloxy.sub.(C8-24).

[0366] In some embodiments of the lipid compositions, the SORT lipid comprises one or more selected from the lipids set forth in Table 6.

TABLE-US-00009 TABLE 6 Example SORT lipids Lipid Name Structure 1,2-Dioleoyl-3- dimethylammonium- propane (18:1 DODAP) [00326] 1,2-dimyristoyl-3- trimethylammonium- propane (14:0 TAP) (e.g., chloride salt) [00327] 1,2-dipalmitoyl-3- trimethylammonium- propane (16:0 TAP) (e.g., chloride salt) [00328] 1,2-stearoyl-3- trimethylammonium- propane (18:0 TAP) (e.g., chloride salt) [00329] 1,2-Dioleoyl-3- trimethylammonium- propane (18:1 DOTAP) (e.g., chloride salt) [00330] 1,2-Di-O- octadecenyl-3- trimethylammonium propane (DOTMA) (e.g., chloride salt) [00331] Dimethyldiocta- decylammonium (DDAB) (e.g., bromide salt) [00332] 1,2-dilauroyl- sn-glycero-3- ethylphosphocholine (12:0 EPC) (e.g., chloride salt) [00333] 1,2-Dioleoyl- sn-glycero-3- ethylphosphocholine (14:0 EPC) (e.g., chloride salt) [00334] 1,2-dimyristoleoyl- sn-glycero-3- ethylphosphocholine (14:1 EPC) (e.g., triflate salt) [00335] 1,2-dipalmitoyl- sn-glycero-3- ethylphosphocholine (16:0 EPC) (e.g., chloride salt) [00336] 1,2-distearoyl- sn-glycero-3- ethylphosphocholine (18:0 EPC) (e.g., chloride salt) [00337] 1,2-dioleoyl- sn-glycero-3- ethylphosphocholine (18:1 EPC) (e.g., chloride salt) [00338] 1-palmitoyl-2- oleoyl-sn-glycero-3- ethylphosphocholine (16:0-18:1 EPC) (e.g., chloride salt) [00339] 1,2-di-O- octadecenyl-3- trimethylammonium propane (18:1 DOTMA) (e.g., chloride salt) [00340] 1,2-dioleoyl- sn-glycero-3- phosphate (18.1 PA) [00341] X.sup. is a counterion (e.g., Cl.sup., Br.sup., etc.)

[0367] In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises the SORT lipid at a molar or weight percentage from about 5% to about 65%, from about 10% to about 65%, from about 15% to about 65%, or from about 20% to about 65%. In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises the SORT lipid at a molar or weight percentage from about 5% to about 60%, from about 10% to about 60%, from about 15% to about 60%, from about 20% to about 60%, or from about 25% to about 60%. In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises the SORT lipid at a molar or weight percentage from about 5% to about 55%, from about 10% to about 55%, from about 15% to about 55%, from about 20% to about 55%, from about 25% to about 55%, or from about 30% to about 55%. In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises the SORT lipid at a molar or weight percentage from about 5% to about 50%, from about 10% to about 50%, from about 15% to about 50%, from about 20% to about 50%, from about 25% to about 50%, from about 30% to about 50%, from about 35% to about 50%, or from about 40% to about 50%. In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises the SORT lipid at a molar or weight percentage from about 30% to about 60%. In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises the SORT lipid at a molar or weight percentage from about 25% to about 60%. In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises the SORT lipid at a molar or weight percentage from about 5% to about 20%, from about 5% to about 25%, from about 5% to about 30%, from about 5% to about 35%, or from about 5% to about 40%. In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises the SORT lipid at a molar or weight percentage of at least (about) 5%, at least (about) 10%, at least (about) 15%, at least (about) 20%, at least (about) 25%, at least (about) 30%, at least (about) 35%, at least (about) 40%, at least (about) 45%, at least (about) 50%, at least (about) 55%, at least (about) 60%, or at least (about) 65%. In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises the SORT lipid at a molar or weight percentage of at most (about) 5%, at most (about) 10%, at most (about) 15%, at most (about) 20%, at most (about) 25%, at most (about) 30%, at most (about) 35%, at most (about) 40%, at least (about) 45%, at most (about) 50%, at most (about) 55%, at most (about) 60%, or at most (about) 65%. In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises the SORT lipid at a molar or weight percentage of (about) 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, or 65%, or of a range between (inclusive) any two of the foregoing values.

[0368] In some embodiments of the method, the SORT lipid effects delivery of the nucleic acid editing system to the cell of the subject characterized by a greater therapeutic effect compared to that achieved with a reference lipid composition. In some embodiments, the reference lipid composition does not comprise the SORT lipid. In some embodiments, the reference lipid composition does not comprise the amount of the SORT lipid. In some embodiments, the reference lipid comprises 13,16,20-tris(2-hydroxydodecyl)-13,16,20,23-tetraazapentatricontane-11,25-diol (LF92), a phospholipid, cholesterol, and a PEG-lipid.

[0369] In some embodiments of the method, the SORT lipid achieves about 1.1-fold to about 20-fold therapeutic effect compared to that achieved with a reference lipid composition. In some embodiments of the method, the SORT lipid achieves about 1.1-fold to about 10-fold therapeutic effect compared to that achieved with a reference lipid composition. In some embodiments of the method, the SORT lipid achieves about 1.1-fold to about 5-fold therapeutic effect compared to that achieved with a reference lipid composition. In some embodiments of the method, the SORT lipid achieves about 5-fold to about 10-fold therapeutic effect compared to that achieved with a reference lipid composition. In some embodiments of the method, the SORT lipid achieves about 10-fold to about 20-fold therapeutic effect compared to that achieved with a reference lipid composition. In some embodiments of the method, the SORT lipid achieves at least about 1.1-fold, at least about 1.5-fold, at least about 2-fold, at least about 3-fold, at least about 4-fold, at least about 5-fold, at least about 6-fold, at least about 7-fold, at least about 8-fold, at least about 9-fold, at least about 10-fold, at least about 11-fold, at least about 12-fold, at least about 13-fold, at least about 14-fold, at least about 15-fold, at least about 16-fold, at least about 17-fold, at least about 18-fold, at least about 19-fold, or at least about 20-fold therapeutic effect compared to that achieved with a reference lipid composition.

[0370] In some embodiments of the method, the SORT lipid achieves about 1.1-fold to about 20-fold therapeutic effect compared to that achieved with a reference lipid composition in cells selected from basal cell, secretory cell such as goblet cell and club cell, ciliated cell and any combination thereof. In some embodiments of the method, the SORT lipid achieves about 1.1-fold to about 10-fold greater therapeutic effect compared to that achieved with a reference lipid composition in cells selected from basal cell, secretory cell such as goblet cell and club cell, ciliated cell and any combination thereof. In some embodiments of the method, the SORT lipid achieves about 1.1-fold to about 5-fold greater therapeutic effect compared to that achieved with a reference lipid composition in cells selected from basal cell, secretory cell such as goblet cell and club cell, ciliated cell and any combination thereof. In some embodiments of the method, the SORT lipid achieves about 10-fold to about 20-fold greater therapeutic effect compared to that achieved with a reference lipid composition in cells selected from basal cell, secretory cell such as goblet cell and club cell, ciliated cell and any combination thereof. In some embodiments of the method, the SORT lipid achieves at least about 1.1-fold, at least about 1.5-fold, at least about 2-fold, at least about 3-fold, at least about 4-fold, at least about 5-fold, at least about 6-fold, at least about 7-fold, at least about 8-fold, at least about 9-fold, at least about 10-fold, at least about 11-fold, at least about 12-fold, at least about 13-fold, at least about 14-fold, at least about 15-fold, at least about 16-fold, at least about 17-fold, at least about 18-fold, at least about 19-fold, or at least about 20-fold therapeutic effect compared to that achieved with a reference lipid composition in cells selected from basal cell, secretory cell such as goblet cell and club cell, ciliated cell and any combination thereof.

[0371] In some embodiments of the method, the SORT lipid effects delivery of the nucleic acid editing system to cells of the subject characterized by a therapeutic effect in a greater plurality of cells compared to that achieved with a reference lipid composition. In some embodiments, the reference lipid composition does not comprise the SORT lipid. In some embodiments, the reference lipid composition does not comprise the amount of the SORT lipid.

[0372] In some embodiments, the reference lipid comprises 13,16,20-tris(2-hydroxydodecyl)-13,16,20,23-tetraazapentatricontane-11,25-diol (LF92), a phospholipid, cholesterol, and a PEG-lipid.

[0373] In some embodiments of the method, the SORT lipid achieves therapeutic effect in about 1.1-fold to about 20-fold cells compared to that achieved with a reference lipid composition. In some embodiments of the method, the SORT lipid achieves therapeutic effect in about 1.1-fold to about 10-fold cells compared to that achieved with a reference lipid composition. In some embodiments of the method, the SORT lipid achieves therapeutic effect in about 1.1-fold to about 5-fold cells compared to that achieved with a reference lipid composition. In some embodiments of the method, the SORT lipid achieves therapeutic effect in about 10-fold to about 20-fold cells compared to that achieved with a reference lipid composition. In some embodiments of the method, the SORT lipid achieves therapeutic effect in at least about 1.1-fold, at least about 5-fold, at least about 10-fold, at least about 20-fold, at least about 50-fold, or at least about 100-fold cells compared to that achieved with a reference lipid composition.

[0374] In some embodiments of the method, the SORT lipid achieves therapeutic effect in about 1.1-fold to about 20-fold cells compared to that achieved with a reference lipid composition, wherein the cells are selected from basal cell, secretory cell such as goblet cell and club cell, ciliated cell and any combination thereof. In some embodiments of the method, the SORT lipid achieves therapeutic effect in about 1.1-fold to about 10-fold cells compared to that achieved with a reference lipid composition, wherein the cells are selected from basal cell, secretory cell such as goblet cell and club cell, ciliated cell and any combination thereof. In some embodiments of the method, the SORT lipid achieves therapeutic effect in about 5-fold to about 10-fold more cells compared to that achieved with a reference lipid composition, wherein the cells are selected from basal cell, secretory cell such as goblet cell and club cell, ciliated cell and any combination thereof. In some embodiments of the method, the SORT lipid achieves therapeutic effect in about 10-fold to about 20-fold more cells compared to that achieved with a reference lipid composition, wherein the cells are selected from basal cell, secretory cell such as goblet cell and club cell, ciliated cell and any combination thereof. In some embodiments of the method, the SORT lipid achieves therapeutic effect in at least about 1.1-fold, at least about 1.5-fold, at least about 2-fold, at least about 3-fold, at least about 4-fold, at least about 5-fold, at least about 6-fold, at least about 7-fold, at least about 8-fold, at least about 9-fold, at least about 10-fold, at least about 11-fold, at least about 12-fold, at least about 13-fold, at least about 14-fold, at least about 15-fold, at least about 16-fold, at least about 17-fold, at least about 18-fold, at least about 19-fold, or at least about 20-fold more cells compared to that achieved with a reference lipid composition, wherein the cells is selected from basal cell, secretory cell such as goblet cell and club cell, ciliated cell and any combination thereof.

Additional Lipids

[0375] In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the lipid composition further comprises an additional lipid including but not limited to a steroid or a steroid derivative, a PEG lipid, and a phospholipid.

Phospholipids or Other Zwitterionic Lipids

[0376] In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the lipid composition further comprises a phospholipid. In some embodiments, the phospholipid may contain one or two long chain (e.g., C.sub.6-C.sub.24) alkyl or alkenyl groups, a glycerol or a sphingosine, one or two phosphate groups, and, optionally, a small organic molecule. The small organic molecule may be an amino acid, a sugar, or an amino substituted alkoxy group, such as choline or ethanolamine. In some embodiments, the phospholipid is a phosphatidylcholine. In some embodiments, the phospholipid is distearoylphosphatidylcholine or dioleoylphosphatidylethanolamine. In some embodiments, other zwitterionic lipids are used, where zwitterionic lipid defines lipid and lipid-like molecules with both a positive charge and a negative charge.

[0377] In some embodiments of the lipid compositions, the phospholipid is not an ethylphosphocholine.

[0378] In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the compositions may further comprise a molar or weight percentage of the phospholipid to the total lipid composition from about 20 to about 23. In some embodiments, the molar percentage is from about 20, 20.5, 21, 21.5, 22, 22.5, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, to about 30 or any range derivable therein. In other embodiments, the molar or weight percentage is from about 7.5 to about 60. In some embodiments, the molar or weight percentage is from about 5, 6, 7, 7.5, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, to about 20 or any range derivable therein. In other embodiments, the molar or weight percentage is from about 7.5 to about 60. In some embodiments, the molar or weight percentage is from about 5, 6, 7, 7.5, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 20.5, 21, 21.5, 22, 22.5, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, to about 30 or any range derivable therein.

[0379] In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises the phospholipid at a molar or weight percentage from about 8% to about 23%. In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises the phospholipid at a molar or weight percentage from about 10% to about 20%. In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises the phospholipid at a molar or weight percentage from about 15% to about 20%. In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises the phospholipid at a molar or weight percentage from about 8% to about 15%. In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises the phospholipid at a molar or weight percentage from about 10% to about 15%. In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises the phospholipid at a molar or weight percentage from about 12% to about 18%. In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises the phospholipid at a molar or weight percentage of at least (about) 8%, at least (about) 10%, at least (about) 12%, at least (about) 15%, at least (about) 18%, at least (about) 20%, or at least (about) 23%. In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises the phospholipid at a molar or weight percentage of at most (about) 8%, at most (about) 10%, at most (about) 12%, at most (about) 15%, at most (about) 18%, at most (about) 20%, or at most (about) 23%.

Steroids or Steroid Derivatives

[0380] In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the lipid composition further comprises a steroid or steroid derivative. In some embodiments, the steroid or steroid derivative comprises any steroid or steroid derivative. As used herein, in some embodiments, the term steroid is a class of compounds with a four ring 17 carbon cyclic structure which can further comprises one or more substitutions including alkyl groups, alkoxy groups, hydroxy groups, oxo groups, acyl groups, or a double bond between two or more carbon atoms. In one aspect, the ring structure of a steroid comprises three fused cyclohexyl rings and a fused cyclopentyl ring as shown in the formula:

##STR00342##

In some embodiments, a steroid derivative comprises the ring structure above with one or more non-alkyl substitutions. In some embodiments, the steroid or steroid derivative is a sterol wherein the formula is further defined as:

##STR00343##

In some embodiments of the present application, the steroid or steroid derivative is a cholestane or cholestane derivative. In a cholestane, the ring structure is further defined by the formula:

##STR00344##

As described above, a cholestane derivative includes one or more non-alkyl substitution of the above ring system. In some embodiments, the cholestane or cholestane derivative is a cholestene or cholestene derivative or a sterol or a sterol derivative. In other embodiments, the cholestane or cholestane derivative is both a cholestere and a sterol or a derivative thereof.

[0381] In some embodiments of the lipid composition, the compositions may further comprise a molar or weight percentage of the steroid to the total lipid composition from about 40 to about 46. In some embodiments, the molar or weight percentage is from about 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, to about 46 or any range derivable therein. In other embodiments, the molar or weight percentage of the steroid relative to the total lipid composition is from about 15 to about 40, or from about 15 to about 45. In some embodiments, the molar or weight percentage is about 15, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36, 38, or 40, or any range derivable therein. In some embodiments, the molar or weight percentage is about 15, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36, 38, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, to about 50, or any range derivable therein.

[0382] In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises the steroid or steroid derivative at a molar or weight percentage from about 15% to about 46%. In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises the steroid or steroid derivative at a molar or weight percentage from about 20% to about 40%. In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises the steroid or steroid derivative at a molar or weight percentage from about 25% to about 35%. In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises the steroid or steroid derivative at a molar or weight percentage from about 30% to about 40%. In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises the steroid or steroid derivative at a molar or weight percentage from about 20% to about 30%. In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises the steroid or steroid derivative at a molar or weight percentage of at least (about) 15%, of at least (about) 20%, of at least (about) 25%, of at least (about) 30%, of at least (about) 35%, of at least (about) 40%, of at least (about) 45%, or of at least (about) 46%. In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises the steroid or steroid derivative at a molar or weight percentage of at most (about) 15%, of at most (about) 20%, of at most (about) 25%, of at most (about) 30%, of at most (about) 35%, of at most (about) 40%, of at most (about) 45%, or of at most (about) 46%.

Polymer-Conjugated Lipids

[0383] In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the lipid composition further comprises a polymer conjugated lipid. In some embodiments, the polymer conjugated lipid is a PEG lipid. In some embodiments, the PEG lipid is a diglyceride which also comprises a PEG chain attached to the glycerol group. In other embodiments, the PEG lipid is a compound which contains one or more C.sub.6-C.sub.24 long chain alkyl or alkenyl group or a C.sub.6-C.sub.24 fatty acid group attached to a linker group with a PEG chain. Some non-limiting examples of a PEG lipid includes a PEG modified phosphatidylethanolamine and phosphatidic acid, a PEG ceramide conjugated, PEG modified dialkylamines and PEG modified 1,2-diacyloxypropan-3-amines, PEG modified diacylglycerols and dialkylglycerols. In some embodiments, PEG modified diastearoylphosphatidylethanolamine or PEG modified dimyristoyl-sn-glycerol. In some embodiments, the PEG modification is measured by the molecular weight of PEG component of the lipid. In some embodiments, the PEG modification has a molecular weight from about 100 to about 15,000. In some embodiments, the molecular weight is from about 200 to about 500, from about 400 to about 5,000, from about 500 to about 3,000, or from about 1,200 to about 3,000. The molecular weight of the PEG modification is from about 100, 200, 400, 500, 600, 800, 1,000, 1,250, 1,500, 1,750, 2,000, 2,250, 2,500, 2,750, 3,000, 3,500, 4,000, 4,500, 5,000, 6,000, 7,000, 8,000, 9,000, 10,000, 12,500, to about 15,000. Some non-limiting examples of lipids that may be used in the present application are taught by U.S. Pat. No. 5,820,873, WO 2010/141069, or U.S. Pat. No. 8,450,298, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0384] In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the PEG lipid has a structural formula:

##STR00345##

wherein: R.sub.12 and R.sub.13 are each independently alkyl.sub.(C24), alkenyl.sub.(C2), or a substituted version of either of these groups; R.sub.e is hydrogen, alkyl.sub.(C8), or substituted alkyl.sub.(C8); and x is 1-250. In some embodiments, R.sub.e is alkyl.sub.(C8) such as methyl. R.sub.12 and R.sub.13 are each independently alkyl.sub.(C4-20). In some embodiments, x is 5-250. In one embodiment, x is 5-125 or x is 100-250. In some embodiments, the PEG lipid is 1,2-dimyristoyl-sn-glycerol, methoxypolyethylene glycol.

[0385] In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the PEG lipid has a structural formula:

##STR00346##

wherein: n.sub.1 is an integer between 1 and 100 and n.sub.2 and n.sub.3 are each independently selected from an integer between 1 and 29. In some embodiments, ni is 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, or 100, or any range derivable therein. In some embodiments, ni is from about 30 to about 50. In some embodiments, n2 is from 5 to 23. In some embodiments, n2 is 11 to about 17. In some embodiments, n.sub.3 is from 5 to 23. In some embodiments, n.sub.3 is 11 to about 17.

[0386] In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the compositions may further comprise a molar or weight percentage of the PEG lipid to the total lipid composition from about 4.0 to about 4.6. In some embodiments, the molar or weight percentage is from about 4.0, 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 4.4, 4.5, to about 4.6 or any range derivable therein.

[0387] In other embodiments, the molar or weight percentage is from about 1.5 to about 4.0. In some embodiments, the molar or weight percentage is from about 1, 1.5, 1.75, 2, 2.25, 2.5, 2.75, 3, 3.25, 3.5, 3.75, to about 4.0 or any range derivable therein. In some embodiments, the molar or weight percentage is from about 1, 1.5, 1.75, 2, 2.25, 2.5, 2.75, 3, 3.25, 3.5, 3.75, 4, 4.0, 4.5, 5.0, 5.5, 6.0, 6.5, 7.0, 7.5, 8.0, 8.5, 9.0, 9.5, to about 10 or any range derivable therein.

[0388] In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises the polymer-conjugated lipid at a molar or weight percentage from about 0.5% to about 10%. In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises the polymer-conjugated lipid at a molar or weight percentage from about 1% to about 8%. In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises the polymer-conjugated lipid at a molar percentage from about 1% to about 10%. In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises the polymer-conjugated lipid at a molar percentage from about 2% to about 10%. In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises the polymer-conjugated lipid at a molar or weight percentage from about 2% to about 7%. In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises the polymer-conjugated lipid at a molar or weight percentage from about 3% to about 5%. In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises the polymer-conjugated lipid at a molar or weight percentage from about 5% to about 10%. In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises the polymer-conjugated lipid at a molar or weight percentage of at least (about) 0.5%, at least (about) 1%, at least (about) 1.5%, at least (about) 2%, at least (about) 2.5%, at least (about) 3%, at least (about) 3.5%, at least (about) 4%, at least (about) 4.5%, at least (about) 5%, at least (about) 5.5%, at least (about) 6%, at least (about) 6.5%, at least (about) 7%, at least (about) 7.5%, at least (about) 8%, at least (about) 8.5%, at least (about) 9%, at least (about) 9.5%, or at least (about) 10%. In some embodiments of the lipid composition of the present application, the lipid composition comprises the polymer-conjugated lipid at a molar or weight percentage of at most (about) 0.5%, at most (about) 1%, at most (about) 1.5%, at most (about) 2%, at most (about) 2.5%, at most (about) 3%, at most (about) 3.5%, at most (about) 4%, at most (about) 4.5%, at most (about) 5%, at most (about) 5.5%, at most (about) 6%, at most (about) 6.5%, at most (about) 7%, at most (about) 7.5%, at most (about) 8%, at most (about) 8.5%, at most (about) 9%, at most (about) 9.5%, or at most (about) 10%.

Methods for Enhancing Cftr Expression or Activity

[0389] Disclosed herein includes a method for enhancing an expression or activity of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) protein in cell(s). The method may comprise: (a) contacting the cell with a nucleic acid editing system assembled with lipid composition(s), which nucleic acid editing system comprises (i) a guide nucleic acid, (ii) a heterologous polypeptide comprising an endonuclease or a heterologous polynucleotide encoding the heterologous polypeptide, and (iii) a donor template nucleic acid, to yield a complex of the heterologous endonuclease with the guide nucleic acid in the cell; (b) cleaving a CFTR gene or transcript in the cell with the complex at a cleavage site to yield a cleaved CFTR gene or transcript; and (c) using the donor template nucleic acid to repair the cleaved CFTR gene or transcript to yield a repaired CFTR gene or transcript encoding a functional CFTR protein in the cell, thereby enhancing the expression or activity of CFTR protein in the cell. The CFTR gene or transcript cleaved in (b) or a cleavage event may be an endogenous CFTR gene or transcript. The CFTR gene or transcript cleaved in (b) or a cleavage event may be a mutant CFTR gene or transcript. The CFTR gene or transcript cleaved in (b) or a cleavage event may be an endogenous mutant CFTR gene or transcript. The repaired CFTR gene or transcript may be generated via homology directed repair (HDR) pathway or event(s). The functional CFTR protein encoded by the repaired CFTR gene or transcript may be a wild-type CFTR protein. The nucleic acid editing system may be one described herein, for example, in the NUCLEIC ACID EDITING SYSTEMS section. The method may comprise using said donor template nucleic acid to repair said cleaved CFTR gene or transcript via a homology directed repair (HDR) pathway or event(s).

[0390] In some embodiments of the method for enhancing the expression or activity of CFTR protein, the lipid composition comprises: an ionizable cationic lipid; and a selective organ targeting (SORT) lipid separate from the ionizable cationic lipid. The lipid composition may further comprise a phospholipid separate from the SORT lipid. The lipid composition may be one described herein, for example, in the LIPID COMPOSITIONS section.

[0391] In some embodiments of the method for enhancing the expression or activity of CFTR protein, the contacting or (a) is ex vivo. In some embodiments, the contacting or (a) is in vitro. In some embodiments, the contacting or (a) is in vivo. In some embodiments, the contacting or (a) is repeated. In some embodiments, the cell is a cell described herein, for example, in the CELLS section. In some embodiments, the cell is a lung cell, e.g., a lung basal cell. In some embodiments, the lung basal cell exhibits or is determined to exhibit p63.

[0392] In some embodiments, the cell is an airway epithelial cell, e.g., a bronchial epithelial cell. In some embodiments, the cell is undifferentiated. In some embodiments, the cell is differentiated.

[0393] In some embodiments, the contacting or (a) comprises contacting a plurality of cells (e.g., lung cells, such as lung basal cells) that comprise the cell (e.g., lung cell, such as lung basal cell).

[0394] The repairing or (c) may yield a functional (e.g., wild-type) CFTR gene, transcript or protein, e.g., in at least about 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 60%, 65%, or 70% of the plurality of cells.

[0395] In some embodiments of the method for enhancing the expression or activity of CFTR protein, a cleavage event or (b) comprises cleaving a (e.g., endogenous) (e.g., mutant) CFTR gene or transcript that comprises a mutation relative to a corresponding wild type counterpart. The mutation may be a loss-of-function mutation, such as a nonsense or frameshift mutation. The mutation may be present in an exon selected from exons 9-27 (e.g., exon 10, exon 12) of CFTR. The mutation may be F508del or G542X. The mutation may be F508del. The mutation may be G542X. The (e.g., loss-of-function) mutation may be associated with cystic fibrosis, hereditary emphysema, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The method may alter a mutant CFTR gene or transcript in cell(s) to a functional CFTR gene or transcript, for example, by inserting one or more nucleotides at or near the cleavage site.

[0396] In some embodiments of the method for enhancing the expression or activity of CFTR protein, a repair event or (c) is characterized by an off-target insertion or/and deletion (indel) rate, for example, of no more than about 50%, 49%, 48%, 47%, 46%, 45%, 44%, 43%, 42%, 41%, or 40%. The off-target indel rate may be associated with or characteristic of non-homologous end-joining (NHEJ) pathway or event(s) in the repair event or (c). The off-target indel rate may comprise a ratio of (1) a sum of test cells detected to have an incorrectly altered CFTR gene or transcript relative to (2) a sum of total test cells. The incorrectly altered CFTR gene or transcript may encode a non-functional CFTR protein. The incorrectly altered CFTR gene or transcript may comprise an insertion or/and deletion (indel) relative to an endogenous (e.g., mutant) CFTR gene or transcript in cell(s) at or near a cleavage site of the nucleic acid editing system. In some embodiments, a repair event or (c) is characterized by an on-target repair rate, for example, of at least about 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 11%, 12%, 13%, 14%, 15%, 16%, 17%, 18%, 19%, or 20%. The on-target repair rate may be associated with or characteristic of homology directed repair (HDR) pathway or event(s) in the repair event or (c).

[0397] The on-target repair rate may comprise a ratio of (1) a sum of test cells detected to have the (e.g., correctly) repaired CFTR gene or transcript relative to (2) a sum of total test cells. The (e.g., correctly) repaired CFTR gene or transcript may encode a functional (e.g., wild-type) CFTR protein. Accurate specificity to a target sequence as well as the prevention or reduction of the number of off-target insertion and/or deletions may be performed by designing oligo using in silio prediction algorithms, or other design methods of oligos, such to analyze potential targets and off-targets in a given sequence.

[0398] In some embodiments of the method for enhancing the expression or activity of CFTR protein, the method increases an amount of a functional CFTR gene, transcript or protein in the cell (e.g., by at least about 1.1-fold) relative to a corresponding control. In some embodiments, the method yields a therapeutically effective amount of a functional of CFTR gene, transcript or protein in the cell. In some embodiments, the method yields at least about 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, or 30%, by mole or by weight, among all detected or detectable CFTR gene, transcript or protein. The functional CFTR gene, transcript or protein may be a wild-type CFTR gene, transcript or protein. The corresponding control may be a corresponding cell absent the contacting or (a). The corresponding control may be a corresponding cell absent the contacting or (a).

[0399] In some embodiments of the method for enhancing the expression or activity of CFTR protein, the method enhances (e.g., chloride) ion transport in cell(s) (e.g., by at least about 1.1-fold) relative to a corresponding control. The method may reduce defective export from or import to cell(s) of chloride, such as chloride anion or in the form of a chloride salt or other chloride-containing compound. The method may enhance or stimulate ion (e.g., chloride) transport in cell(s). The enhanced or stimulated ion (e.g., chloride) transport may result in secretion or absorption of (e.g., chloride) ions. The corresponding control may be a corresponding cell absent the contacting. Enhanced (e.g., chloride) ion transport may be determined by evaluating CFTR-mediated currents across cell(s) by employing standard Ussing chamber (see Ussing and Zehrahn, Acta. Physiol. Scand. 23:110-127, 1951) or nasal potential difference measurements (see Knowles et al., Hum. Gene Therapy 6:445-455, 1995). The enhanced chloride transport may be determined by the Ieq (equivalen current) assay using the TECC-24 system as described in Vu et al., J. Med. Chem. 2017, 60, 458-473, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0400] The enhanced (e.g., chloride) ion transport may be determined by CFTR-dependent whole-cell current measurement(s), as described in International Patent Application No. PCT/US2017/032967, published as WO2017201091, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0401] In some embodiments, the method further comprises deriving (e.g., by cell culturing) a cell composition (e.g., a lung cell composition) from the cell.

Methods for Lung Cell Editing

[0402] Disclosed herein includes a method for genetic correction of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) in a lung (e.g., basal) cell, comprising: contacting the lung (e.g., basal) cell with a composition that comprises a nucleic acid editing system assembled with a lipid composition, thereby delivering the nucleic acid editing system to the lung (e.g., basal) cell.

[0403] Disclosed herein includes a method for genetic correction of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) in a cell composition, comprising: contacting the cell composition comprising a plurality of lung (e.g., basal) cells with a composition that comprises a nucleic acid editing system assembled with a lipid composition, thereby delivering the nucleic acid editing system, e.g., to at least about 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 60%, 65%, or 70% of the plurality of lung (e.g., basal) cells.

[0404] Disclosed herein includes a method for genetic correction of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) in a cell composition, comprising: contacting the cell composition with a composition that comprises a nucleic acid editing system assembled with a lipid composition, which cell composition comprise a lung (e.g., basal) cell and a lung non-basal cell, thereby delivering the nucleic acid editing system to the lung (e.g., basal) cell in a greater amount than that delivered to the lung non-basal cell. The non-basal cell may be an ionocyte (e.g., exhibiting or determined to exhibit to FOXI1), a ciliated cell, or a secretory cell (such as goblet cell and club cell).

[0405] In some embodiments of any one of the methods for genetic correction of CFTR of this section, the lung (e.g., basal) cell or the plurality of lung (e.g., basal) cells is/are determined to exhibit a mutation in CFTR gene. In some embodiments of any one of the methods for genetic correction of CFTR of this section, the lung (e.g., basal) cell or the plurality of lung (e.g., basal) cells exhibit(s) a mutation in CFTR gene.

[0406] In some embodiments of any one of the methods for genetic correction of CFTR of this section, the lung (e.g., basal) cell or the plurality of lung (e.g., basal) cells is/are from a subject. The subject may be determined to exhibit a mutation in CFTR gene. The subject may exhibit a mutation in CFTR gene.

[0407] In some embodiments of any one of the methods for genetic correction of CFTR of this section, the contacting is ex vivo. In some embodiments of any one of the methods for genetic correction of CFTR of this section, the contacting is in vitro. In some embodiments of any one of the methods for genetic correction of CFTR of this section, the contacting is in vivo.

[0408] In some embodiments of the method, a cell or plurality of cells is isolated from the subject. The compositions as described elsewhere here may be contacted with the cell outside of the subject. Upon administration of the composition or therapeutic, the cell may be re-injected or other wise re-introduced into the subject. In some embodiments of the method, the cell is a cell line. In some embodiments of the method, the cell is a lung cell. In some embodiments, the lung cell is a lung airway cell. Examples of lung airway cells that can be targeted by the delivery of the present application includes but is not limited to basal cell, secretory cell such as goblet cell and club cell, ciliated cell and any combination thereof.

Methods of Treatment

[0409] Disclosed herein includes a method for treating a subject having or suspected of having a cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR)-associated condition, the method comprising administering to the subject a composition comprising a nucleic acid editing system (such as one described herein in the NUCLEIC ACID EDITING SYSTEMS section) assembled with a lipid composition (such as one described herein in the LIPID COMPOSITIONS section). The CFTR-associated condition may be cystic fibrosis, hereditary emphysema, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or a combination thereof. The subject may be a mammal. The subject may be a non-human species (e.g., mouse, rat, rabbit, dog, monkey, gibbon, chimp, ape, baboon, cow, pig, horse, sheep, cat and other species). The subject may be a human. The subject may be determined to exhibit a mutation (e.g., F508del or G542X) in CFTR gene. In some embodiments, the administering comprises systemic (e.g., intravenous) administration. In some embodiments, the subject is selected from the group consisting of mouse, rat, monkey, and human. In some embodiments, the subject is a human.

Engineered Cells

[0410] Disclosed herein includes an engineered cell composition comprising or derived from a cell, the cell comprising a heterologous cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene, transcript or protein produced by a composition described herein, e.g., in the NUCLEIC ACID EDITING SYSTEMS section.

[0411] Disclosed herein includes an engineered cell composition comprising or derived from a cell having an expression or activity of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) protein enhanced by a method described herein, e.g., in the METHODS FOR ENHANCING CFTR EXPRESSION OR ACTIVITY section.

[0412] Disclosed herein includes an engineered cell composition comprising or derived from a lung (e.g., basal) cell or a plurality of lung (e.g., basal) cells brought in contact with a composition that comprises a nucleic acid editing system assembled with a lipid composition as described herein, e.g., in the METHODS FOR LUNG CELL EDITING section.

[0413] In some embodiments, the engineered cell composition is derived in vitro. In some embodiments, the engineered cell composition is derived ex vivo.

Cells

Basal Cells

[0414] Basal cells are derived from undifferentiated columnar epithelium in the developing airway. They are characterized by basal position in the columnar epithelium, the presence of hemidesmosomes (characterized by alpha 6 beta 4 integrins), cytokeratins 5 and 14, NGFR, and the nuclear protein p63. The distribution of basal cells varies by airway level and animal species. Airways that are larger in diameter have more basal cells than airways with smaller diameters. As the airway decreases in diameter, the number of basal cells also decreases, and none are present in the terminal bronchioles.

[0415] In another aspect, provided herein is a method for (e.g., lung) basal cell delivery of a nucleic acid editing system, comprising: contacting said (e.g., lung) basal cell with a composition comprising said nucleic acid editing system assembled with a lipid composition, thereby delivering said nucleic acid editing system to said (e.g., lung) basal cell. In some embodiments, the contacting is ex vivo. For example, cells may be isolated from a patient and contacted with the composition. The cells may then be reintroduced to the subject. In some embodiments, the contacting is in vitro. In some embodiments, the contacting is in vivo. The cells may be derived are be from the subject. The cells may be in the subject. The subject may be a subject as described elsewhere herein. For example, the subject may be determined to exhibit a mutation in the CFTR gene.

[0416] In another aspect, provided herein is a method for (e.g., lung) basal cell delivery of a nucleic acid editing system, comprising: contacting a (e.g., lung) cell composition comprising a plurality of (e.g., lung) basal cells with a composition that comprises said nucleic acid editing system assembled with a lipid composition, thereby delivering said nucleic acid editing system to at least 15% of said plurality of (e.g., lung) basal cells. The lung cell composition may also comprise other lung cells, as described elsewhere herein, for example, an ionocyte, a ciliated cell, a secretory cell, or a combination thereof. The (e.g. lung) cell composition may comprise a first cell of a first CFTR genotype and a second cell of a second CFTR genotype. The (e.g. lung) cells may comprises a variety of genotypes or a variety of CFTR alleles.

[0417] In another aspect, provided herein is a method for (e.g., lung) basal cell-targeted delivery of a nucleic acid editing system, comprising: contacting a plurality of (e.g., lung) cells of a plurality of cell types with a composition that comprises said nucleic acid editing system assembled with a lipid composition, which plurality of cells comprise a (e.g., lung) basal cell and a (e.g., lung) non-basal cell, thereby delivering said nucleic acid editing system to said basal cell in a greater amount than that delivered to said non-basal cell. The lung cell composition may also comprise other lung cells, as described elsewhere herein, for example, an ionocyte, a ciliated cell, a secretory cell, or a combination thereof. The (e.g. lung) cell composition may comprise a first cell of a first CFTR genotype and a second cell of a second CFTR genotype. The (e.g. lung) cells may comprises a variety of genotypes or a variety of CFTR alleles.

[0418] In another aspect, provided herein is a method for delivery to basal cells of a subject, comprising administrating to the subject the pharmaceutical composition as described in the present application. In some embodiments of the method, the pharmaceutical composition comprises a nucleic acid editing system assembled with a lipid composition as described in the present application, wherein the lipid composition comprises (i) an ionizable cationic lipid; and (ii) a selective organ targeting (SORT) lipid separate from the ionizable cationic lipid. The lipid composition may further comprise a phospholipid. In some embodiments, the basal cell is a lung basal cell.

[0419] In some embodiments of the method, the pharmaceutical composition is administrated to the subject through any suitable delivery. In some embodiment, the pharmaceutical composition is administrated to the subject through inhalation. In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition is administrated to the subject through systemic administration such as intravenous administration.

Ciliated Cells

[0420] Ciliated cells are those cells with cilia structures on the cell surface. Examples of ciliated cells include but are not limited to respiratory tract ciliated cells, oviduct ciliated cell, uterine endometrial ciliated cells, rete testis ciliated cells, ductulus efferens ciliated cells, and/or ciliated ependymal cells. Human respiratory tract ciliated cells bear 200 to 300 cilia on their surface. Cilia are elongated motile cylindrical projections from the apical cell membrane, about 0.25 mm in diameter, that contain microtubules and cytoplasm in continuity with that of the cell. Human tracheal cilia are 5 to 8 mm long, becoming shorter in more distal airways.

[0421] The structure of a cilium is complex and consists of an axoneme, anchored by a basal body and a rootlet to the cell, and it possesses some smaller claw-like formations on its tip. The direction in which the basal body points defines the orientation of the cilium and the direction of the effective beat. The axoneme contains nine pairs of microtubules which surround a central pair of microtubules, as well as radial spokes and peripheral nexin links, which to a great extent maintain the wheel-like arrangement of the cilium. Inner and outer arms attach to the microtubules. The main structural protein of the doublets is tubulin. The arms (inner and outer) contain dynein, which is a protein classified as an ATPase. Dynein generates the force that results in a sliding movement of the microtubules, responsible for ciliary movement. It is generally accepted that the outer dynein arms are mostly responsible for beating frequency whereas the inner dynein arms together with the radial spokes and nexin links have a role in the waveform of the beating. Changes in the structural integrity of the axoneme can result in abnormal movement that ranges from stillness to aberrant patterns of hyperactivity.

Secretory Cell

[0422] Secretory cell refers to cells specialized for secretion. These cells are usually epithelial in origin and have characteristic, well developed rough endoplasmic reticulum or, in the case of cells secreting lipids or lipid-derived products have well developed smooth endoplasmic reticulum. Examples of secretory cells include: salivary gland cells, mammary gland cells, lacrimal gland cells, creuminous gland cells, eccrine sweat gland cells, apocrine sweat gland cells, sebaceous gland cells, Bowman's gland cells, Brunner's gland cells, seminal vesicle cells, prostate gland cells, bulbourethral gland cells, Bartholin's gland cells, gland of Littre cells, endometrial cells, goblet cells of the respiratory and digestive tracts, mucous cells of the stomach, zymogenic cells of gastric glands, oxyntic cells of gastric glands, acinar cells of the pancreas, paneth cells of the small intestine, type II pneumocytes of the lung, club cells of the lung, anterior pituitary cells, cells of the intermediate pituitary, cells of the posterior pituitary, cells of the gut and respiratory tract, cells of the thyroid gland, cells of the parathyroid gland, cells of the adrenal gland, cells of the testes, cells of the ovaries, cells of the juxtaglomerular apparatus of the kidney, cells secreting extracellular matrix (e.g., epithelial cells, nonepithelial cells (such as fibroblasts, chondrocytes, osteoblasts/osteocytes, osteoprogenitor cells), and secretory cells of the immune system (e.g., Ig producing B cells, cytokine producing T cells, etc.).

[0423] The following are examples of compositions and evaluations of compositions of the disclosure. It is understood that various other embodiments may be practiced, given the general description provided above.

LIST OF EMBODIMENTS

[0424] The following list of embodiments of the invention are to be considered as disclosing various features of the invention, which features can be considered to be specific to the particular embodiment under which they are discussed, or which are combinable with the various other features as listed in other embodiments. Thus, simply because a feature is discussed under one particular embodiment does not necessarily limit the use of that feature to that embodiment.

[0425] Embodiment 1. A method for enhancing an expression or activity of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) protein in a cell, the method comprising: (a) contacting said cell with a nucleic acid editing system assembled with a lipid composition, which nucleic acid editing system comprises (i) a guide nucleic acid, (ii) a heterologous polypeptide comprising an endonuclease or a heterologous polynucleotide encoding said heterologous polypeptide, and (iii) a donor template nucleic acid, to yield a complex of said heterologous endonuclease with said guide nucleic acid in said cell; (b) cleaving a CFTR gene or transcript in said cell with said complex at a cleavage site to yield a cleaved CFTR gene or transcript; and (c) using said donor template nucleic acid to repair said cleaved CFTR gene or transcript to yield a repaired CFTR gene or transcript encoding a functional CFTR protein in said cell, thereby enhancing said expression or activity of CFTR protein in said cell.

[0426] Embodiment 2. The method of Embodiment 1, wherein (c) is characterized by an off-target insertion or/and deletion (indel) rate of no more than about 50%, 49%, 48%, 47%, 46%, 45%, 44%, 43%, 42%, 41%, or 40%.

[0427] Embodiment 3. The method of Embodiment 2, wherein said off-target indel rate comprises a ratio of (1) a sum of test cells detected to have an incorrectly altered CFTR gene or transcript relative to (2) a sum of total test cells.

[0428] Embodiment 4. The method of any one of Embodiments 1-3, wherein (c) is characterized by an on-target repair rate of at least about 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 11%, 12%, 13%, 14%, 15%, 16%, 17%, 18%, 19%, or 20%.

[0429] Embodiment 5. The method of Embodiment 4, wherein said on-target repair rate comprises a ratio of (1) a sum of test cells detected to have said repaired CFTR gene or transcript relative to (2) a sum of total test cells.

[0430] Embodiment 6. The method of any one of Embodiments 1-5, wherein the method increases an amount of a functional CFTR gene, transcript or protein in said cell (e.g., by at least about 1.1-fold) relative to a corresponding control, optionally, wherein said corresponding control is a corresponding cell absent said contacting.

[0431] Embodiment 7. The method of any one of Embodiments 1-6, wherein the method yields a therapeutically effective amount of a functional of CFTR gene, transcript or protein in said cell (e.g., at least about 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, or 30% among all detectable CFTR gene, transcript or protein).

[0432] Embodiment 8. The method of any one of Embodiments 1-7, wherein the method enhances (e.g., chloride) ion transport in said cell (e.g., by at least about 1.1-fold) relative to a corresponding control, optionally, wherein said corresponding control is a corresponding cell absent said contacting.

[0433] Embodiment 9. The method of any one of Embodiments 1-8, wherein said cell is a lung cell.

[0434] Embodiment 10. The method of Embodiment 9, wherein said cell is a lung basal cell.

[0435] Embodiment 11. The method of any one of Embodiments 1-10, wherein said cell is an airway epithelial cell (e.g., a bronchial epithelial cell).

[0436] Embodiment 12. The method of any one of Embodiments 1-11, wherein said cell is undifferentiated.

[0437] Embodiment 13. The method of any one of Embodiments 1-11, wherein said cell is differentiated.

[0438] Embodiment 14. The method of any one of Embodiments 1-13, wherein (b) comprises cleaving a CFTR gene or transcript that comprises a loss-of-function mutation.

[0439] Embodiment 15. The method of Embodiment 14, wherein said loss-of-function mutation comprises a mutation in an exon selected from exons 9-27 of CFTR.

[0440] Embodiment 16. The method of Embodiment 14 or 15, wherein said loss-of-function mutation is F508del or G542X.

[0441] Embodiment 17. The method of any one of Embodiments 14-16, wherein said loss-of-function mutation is associated with cystic fibrosis, hereditary emphysema, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

[0442] Embodiment 18. The method of any one of Embodiments 1-17, wherein said contacting is ex vivo.

[0443] Embodiment 19. The method of any one of Embodiments 1-17, wherein said contacting is in vitro.

[0444] Embodiment 20. The method of any one of Embodiments 1-17, wherein said contacting is in vivo.

[0445] Embodiment 21. The method of any one of Embodiments 1-20, wherein said contacting is repeated.

[0446] Embodiment 22. The method of anyone of Embodiments 1-21, wherein said contacting comprises contacting a plurality of cells that comprise said cell.

[0447] Embodiment 23. The method of Embodiment 22, wherein said repairing yields a functional CFTR gene, transcript or protein in at least about 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 60%, 65%, or 70% of said plurality of cells, optionally wherein said plurality of cells are a plurality of (e.g., lung) basal cells.

[0448] Embodiment 24. The method of any one of Embodiments 1-23, wherein said lipid composition comprises: an ionizable cationic lipid; and a selective organ targeting (SORT) lipid separate from said ionizable cationic lipid.

[0449] Embodiment 25. The method of Embodiment 24, wherein said lipid composition comprises a phospholipid separate from said SORT lipid.

[0450] Embodiment 26. The method of any one of Embodiments 1-25, wherein said therapeutic effect is characterized by an amount or activity of said agent detectable in said at least about 10% (e.g., at least about 15%) basal cells in said organ or tissue of said subject.

[0451] Embodiment 27. The method of any one of Embodiments 1-26, wherein said lipid composition comprises said SORT lipid at a molar percentage from about 20% to about 65%.

[0452] Embodiment 28. The method of any one of Embodiments 1-27, wherein said lipid composition comprises said ionizable cationic lipid at a molar percentage from about 5% to about 30%.

[0453] Embodiment 29. The method of any one of Embodiments 1-28, wherein said lipid composition comprises said phospholipid at a molar percentage from about 8% to about 23%.

[0454] Embodiment 30. The method of any one of Embodiments 1-29, wherein said phospholipid is not an ethylphosphocholine.

[0455] Embodiment 31. The method of any one of Embodiments 1-30, wherein said lipid composition further comprises a steroid or steroid derivative.

[0456] Embodiment 32. The method of Embodiment 31, wherein said lipid composition comprises said steroid or steroid derivative at a molar percentage from about 15% to about 46%.

[0457] Embodiment 33. The method of any one of Embodiments 1-32, wherein said lipid composition further comprises a polymer-conjugated lipid (e.g., poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG)-conjugated lipid).

[0458] Embodiment 34. The method of Embodiment 33, wherein said lipid composition comprises said polymer-conjugated lipid at a molar percentage from about 0.5% to about 10%, from about 1% to about 10%, or from about 2% to about 10%.

[0459] Embodiment 35. The method of any one of Embodiments 1-34, wherein said therapeutic agent is a polynucleotide; and wherein a molar ratio of nitrogen in said lipid composition to phosphate in said polynucleotide (N/P ratio) is no more than about 20:1.

[0460] Embodiment 36. The method of Embodiment 35, wherein said N/P ratio is from about 5:1 to about 20:1.

[0461] Embodiment 37. The method of any one of Embodiments 1-36, wherein a molar ratio of said therapeutic agent to total lipids of said lipid composition is no more than about 1:1, 1:10, 1:50, or 1:100.

[0462] Embodiment 38. The method of any one of Embodiments 1-37, wherein at least about 85% of said therapeutic agent is encapsulated in particles of said lipid compositions.

[0463] Embodiment 39. The method of any one of Embodiments 1-38, wherein said lipid composition comprises a plurality of particles characterized by one or more characteristics of the following: (1) a (e.g., average) size of 100 nanometers (nm) or less; (2) a polydispersity index (PDI) of no more than about 0.2; and (3) a negative zeta potential of 10 millivolts (mV) to 10 mV.

[0464] Embodiment 40. The method of any one of Embodiments 1-39, wherein said lipid composition has an apparent ionization constant (pKa) outside a range of 6 to 7.

[0465] Embodiment 41. The method of Embodiment 40, wherein said apparent pKa of said lipid composition is of about 7 or higher.

[0466] Embodiment 42. The method of Embodiment 40, wherein said apparent pKa of said lipid composition is of about 8 or higher.

[0467] Embodiment 43. The method of Embodiment 42, wherein said apparent pKa of said lipid composition is from about 8 to about 13.

[0468] Embodiment 44. The method of any one of Embodiments 1-43, wherein said SORT lipid comprises a permanently positively charged moiety (e.g., a quaternary ammonium ion).

[0469] Embodiment 45. The method of Embodiment 44, wherein said SORT lipid comprises a counterion.

[0470] Embodiment 46. The method of any one of Embodiments 1-45, wherein said SORT lipid is a phosphocholine lipid (e.g., saturated or unsaturated).

[0471] Embodiment 47. The method of any one of Embodiments 46, wherein said SORT lipid is an ethylphosphocholine.

[0472] Embodiment 48. The method of any one of Embodiments 1-47, wherein said SORT lipid comprises a headgroup having a structural formula:

##STR00347##

wherein L is a (e.g., biodegradable) linker; Z.sup.+ is positively charged moiety (e.g., a quaternary ammonium ion); and X.sup. is a counterion.

[0473] Embodiment 49. The method of Embodiment 48, wherein said SORT lipid has a structural formula:

##STR00348##

wherein R.sup.1 and R.sup.2 are each independently an optionally substituted C.sub.6-C.sub.24 alkyl, or an optionally substituted C.sub.6-C.sub.24 alkenyl.

[0474] Embodiment 50. The method of Embodiment 48, wherein said SORT lipid has a structural formula:

##STR00349##

[0475] Embodiment 51. The method of any one of Embodiments 48-50, wherein L is

##STR00350##

wherein: p and q are each independently 1, 2, or 3; and R.sup.4 is an optionally substituted C.sub.1-C.sub.6 alkyl.

[0476] Embodiment 52. The method of Embodiment 48, wherein said SORT lipid has a structural formula:

##STR00351##

wherein: [0477] R.sub.1 and R.sub.2 are each independently alkyl.sub.(C8-C24), alkenyl.sub.(C8-C24), or a substituted version of either group; [0478] R.sub.3, R.sub.3, and R.sub.3 are each independently alkyl.sub.(C6) or substituted alkyl.sub.(C6); [0479] R.sub.4 is alkyl.sub.(C6) or substituted alkyl.sub.(C6); and [0480] X.sup. is a monovalent anion.

[0481] Embodiment 53. The method of any one of Embodiments 1-47, wherein said SORT lipid has a structural formula:

##STR00352## [0482] wherein: [0483] R.sub.1 and R.sub.2 are each independently alkyl.sub.(C8-C24), alkenyl.sub.(C8-C24), or a substituted version of either group; [0484] R.sub.3, R.sub.3, and R.sub.3 are each independently alkyl.sub.(C6) or substituted alkyl.sub.(C6); [0485] X.sup. is a monovalent anion.

[0486] Embodiment 54. The method of any one of Embodiments 1-47, wherein said SORT lipid has a structural formula:

##STR00353## [0487] wherein: [0488] R.sub.1 and R.sub.2 are each independently alkyl.sub.(C8-C24), alkenyl.sub.(C8-C24), or a substituted version of either group; [0489] R.sub.3, R.sub.3, and R.sub.3 are each independently alkyl.sub.(C6) or substituted alkyl.sub.(C6); [0490] X.sup. is a monovalent anion.

[0491] Embodiment 55. The method of any one of Embodiments 1-47, wherein said SORT lipid has a structural formula:

##STR00354## [0492] wherein: [0493] R.sub.4 and R.sub.4 are each independently alkyl.sub.(C6-C24), alkenyl.sub.(C6-C24), or a substituted version of either group; [0494] R.sub.4 is alkyl.sub.(C24), alkenyl.sub.(C24), or a substituted version of either group; [0495] R.sub.4 is alkyl.sub.(C1-C8), alkenyl.sub.(C2-C8), or a substituted version of either group; and [0496] X.sub.2 is a monovalent anion.

[0497] Embodiment 56. The method of any one of Embodiments 1-47, wherein said SORT lipid is selected from those set forth in Table 6, or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, or a subset of the lipids and the pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof.

[0498] Embodiment 57. The method of any one of Embodiments 1-56, wherein the ionizable cationic lipid is a dendrimer or dendron of a generation (g) having a structural formula:

##STR00355##

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein: [0499] (a) the core comprises a structural formula (X.sub.Core):

##STR00356## [0500] wherein: [0501] Q is independently at each occurrence a covalent bond, O, S, NR.sup.2, or CR.sup.3aR.sup.3b; [0502] R.sup.2 is independently at each occurrence R.sup.1g or -L.sup.2-NR.sup.1eR.sup.1f; [0503] R.sup.3a and R.sup.3b are each independently at each occurrence hydrogen or an optionally substituted (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.6, such as C.sub.1-C.sub.3) alkyl; [0504] R.sup.1a, R.sup.1b, R.sup.1c, R.sup.1d, R.sup.1e, R.sup.1f, and R.sup.1g (if present) are each independently at each occurrence a point of connection to a branch, hydrogen, or an optionally substituted (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.12) alkyl; [0505] L.sup.0, L.sup.1, and L.sup.2 are each independently at each occurrence selected from a covalent bond, (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.12, such as C.sub.1-C.sub.6 or C.sub.1-C.sub.3) alkylene, (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.12, such as C.sub.1-C.sub.8 or C.sub.1-C.sub.6) heteroalkylene (e.g., C.sub.2-C.sub.8 alkyleneoxide, such as oligo(ethyleneoxide)), [(e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.6) alkylene]-[(e.g., C.sub.4-C.sub.6) heterocycloalkyl]-[(e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.6) alkylene], [(e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.6) alkylene]-(arylene)-[(e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.6) alkylene](e.g., [(e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.6) alkylene]-phenylene-[(e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.6) alkylene]), (e.g., C.sub.4-C.sub.6) heterocycloalkyl, and arylene (e.g., phenylene); or, [0506] alternatively, part of L.sup.1 form a (e.g., C.sub.4-C.sub.6) heterocycloalkyl (e.g., containing one or two nitrogen atoms and, optionally, an additional heteroatom selected from oxygen and sulfur) with one of R.sup.1c and R.sup.1d; and [0507] x.sup.1 is 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6; and [0508] (b) each branch of the plurality (N) of branches independently comprises a structural formula (X.sub.Branch):

##STR00357## [0509] wherein: [0510] * indicates a point of attachment of the branch to the core; [0511] g is 1, 2, 3, or 4; [0512] Z=2.sup.(g-1); [0513] G=0, when g=1; or G=.sub.i=0.sup.i=g-2 2.sup.i, when g1; [0514] (c) each diacyl group independently comprises a structural formula

##STR00358## wherein: [0515] * indicates a point of attachment of the diacyl group at the proximal end thereof; [0516] ** indicates a point of attachment of the diacyl group at the distal end thereof; [0517] Y.sup.3 is independently at each occurrence an optionally substituted (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.12); alkylene, an optionally substituted (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.12) alkenylene, or an optionally substituted (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.12) arenylene; [0518] A.sup.1 and A.sup.2 are each independently at each occurrence O, S, or NR.sup.4, wherein: [0519] R.sup.4 is hydrogen or optionally substituted (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.6) alkyl; [0520] m.sup.1 and m.sup.2 are each independently at each occurrence 1, 2, or 3; and [0521] R.sup.3c, R.sup.3d, R.sup.3e, and R.sup.3f are each independently at each occurrence hydrogen or an optionally substituted (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.8) alkyl; and [0522] (d) each linker group independently comprises a structural formula

##STR00359## [0523] wherein: [0524] ** indicates a point of attachment of the linker to a proximal diacyl group; [0525] *** indicates a point of attachment of the linker to a distal diacyl group; and [0526] Y.sub.1 is independently at each occurrence an optionally substituted (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.12) alkylene, an optionally substituted (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.12) alkenylene, or an optionally substituted (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.12) arenylene; and [0527] (e) each terminating group is independently selected from optionally substituted (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.18, such as C.sub.4-C.sub.18) alkylthiol, and optionally substituted (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.18, such as C.sub.4-C.sub.18) alkenylthiol.

[0528] Embodiment 58. The method of Embodiment 57, wherein x.sup.1 is 0, 1, 2, or 3.

[0529] Embodiment 59. The method of Embodiment 57 or 58, wherein R.sup.1a, R.sup.1b, R.sup.1c, R.sup.1d, R.sup.1e, R.sup.1f, and R.sup.1g (if present) are each independently at each occurrence a point of connection to a branch (e.g., as indicated by *), hydrogen, or C.sub.1-C.sub.12 alkyl (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.8 alkyl, such as C.sub.1-C.sub.6 alkyl or C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkyl), wherein the alkyl moiety is optionally substituted with one or more substituents each independently selected from OH, C.sub.4-C.sub.8 (e.g., C.sub.4-C.sub.6) heterocycloalkyl (e.g., piperidinyl

##STR00360##

N(C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkyl)-piperidinyl

##STR00361##

piperazinyl

##STR00362##

N(C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkyl)-piperadizinyl

##STR00363##

morpholinyl

##STR00364##

N-pyrrolidinyl

##STR00365##

pyrrolidinyl

##STR00366##

or N(C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkyl)-pyrrolidinyl

##STR00367##

(e.g., C.sub.6-C.sub.10) aryl, and C.sub.3-C.sub.5 heteroaryl (e.g., imidazolyl

##STR00368##

or pyridinyl

##STR00369##

[0530] Embodiment 60. The method of Embodiment 59, wherein R.sup.1a, R.sup.1b, R.sup.1c, R.sup.1d, R.sup.1e, R.sup.1f, and R.sup.1g (if present) are each independently at each occurrence a point of connection to a branch (e.g., as indicated by *), hydrogen, or C.sub.1-C.sub.12 alkyl (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.8 alkyl, such as C.sub.1-C.sub.6 alkyl or C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkyl), wherein the alkyl moiety is optionally substituted with one substituent OH.

[0531] Embodiment 61. The method of any one of Embodiments 57-60, wherein R.sup.3a and R.sup.3b are each independently at each occurrence hydrogen.

[0532] Embodiment 62. The method of any one of Embodiments 57-61, wherein the plurality (N) of branches comprises at least 3 (e.g., at least 4, or at least 5) branches.

[0533] Embodiment 63. The method of any one of Embodiments 57-62, wherein g=1; G=0; and Z=1.

[0534] Embodiment 64. The method of Embodiment 63, wherein each branch of the plurality of branches comprises a structural formula

##STR00370##

[0535] Embodiment 65. The method of any one of Embodiments 57-62, wherein g=2; G=1; and Z=2.

[0536] Embodiment 66. The method of Embodiment 65, wherein each branch of the plurality of branches comprises a structural formula

##STR00371##

[0537] Embodiment 67. The method of any one of Embodiments 57-66, wherein the core comprises a structural formula:

##STR00372##

[0538] Embodiment 68. The method of any one of Embodiments 57-66, wherein the core comprises a structural formula:

##STR00373##

[0539] Embodiment 69. The method of Embodiment 68, wherein the core comprises a structural formula:

##STR00374##

[0540] Embodiment 70. The method of Embodiment 68, wherein the core comprises a structural formula:

##STR00375##

such as

##STR00376##

[0541] Embodiment 71. The method of any one of Embodiments 57-66, wherein the core comprises a structural formula:

##STR00377##

wherein Q is NR.sup.2 or CR.sup.3aR.sup.3b; q.sup.1 and q.sup.2 are each independently 1 or 2.

[0542] Embodiment 72. The method of Embodiment 71, wherein the core comprises a structural formula:

##STR00378##

[0543] Embodiment 73. The method of any one of Embodiments 57-66, wherein the core comprises a structural formula

##STR00379##

wherein ring A is an optionally substituted aryl or an optionally substituted (e.g., C.sub.3-C.sub.12, such as C.sub.3-C.sub.5) heteroaryl.

[0544] Embodiment 74. The method of any one of Embodiments 57-66, wherein the core comprises has a structural formula

##STR00380##

[0545] Embodiment 75. The method of any one of Embodiments 57-66, wherein the core is selected from those set forth in Table 1 or a subset thereof.

[0546] Embodiment 76. The method of any one of Embodiments 57-66, wherein the core comprises a structural formula selected from the group consisting of:

##STR00381## ##STR00382## ##STR00383## ##STR00384##

and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, wherein * indicates a point of attachment of the core to a branch of the plurality of branches.

[0547] Embodiment 77. The method of any one of Embodiments 57-66, wherein the core comprises a structural formula selected from the group consisting of:

##STR00385##

and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, wherein indicates a point of attachment of the core to a branch of the plurality of branches.

[0548] Embodiment 78. The method of any one of Embodiments 57-66, wherein the core has the structure

##STR00386##

wherein * indicates a point of attachment of the core to a branch of the plurality of branches or H.

[0549] Embodiment 79. The method of Embodiment 78, wherein at least 2 branches are attached to the core.

[0550] Embodiment 80. The method of Embodiment 78, wherein at least 3 branches are attached to the core.

[0551] Embodiment 81. The method of Embodiment 78, wherein at least 4 branches are attached to the core.

[0552] Embodiment 82. The method of any one of Embodiments 57-66, wherein the core has the structure

##STR00387##

wherein * indicates a point of attachment of the core to a branch of the plurality of branches or H.

[0553] Embodiment 83. The method of Embodiment 82, wherein at least 4 branches are attached to the core.

[0554] Embodiment 84. The method of Embodiment 82, wherein at least 5 branches are attached to the core.

[0555] Embodiment 85. The method of Embodiment 82, wherein at least 6 branches are attached to the core.

[0556] Embodiment 86. The method of any one of Embodiments 57-85, wherein A.sup.1 is O or NH.

[0557] Embodiment 87. The method of Embodiment 86, wherein A.sup.2 is O.

[0558] Embodiment 88. The method of any one of Embodiments 57-87, wherein A.sup.2 is O or NH.

[0559] Embodiment 89. The method of any Embodiment 88, wherein A.sup.2 is O.

[0560] Embodiment 90. The method of any one of Embodiments 57-89, wherein Y.sup.3 is C.sub.1-C.sub.12 (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.6, such as C.sub.1-C.sub.3) alkylene.

[0561] Embodiment 91. The method of any one of Embodiments 57-90, wherein the diacyl group independently at each occurrence comprises a structural formula

##STR00388##

such as

##STR00389##

optionally wherein R.sup.3c, R.sup.3d, R.sup.3e, and R.sup.3f are each independently at each occurrence hydrogen or C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkyl.

[0562] Embodiment 92. The method of any one of Embodiments 57-91, wherein L.sup.0, L.sup.1, and L.sup.2 are each independently at each occurrence selected from a covalent bond, C.sub.1-C.sub.6 alkylene (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkylene), C.sub.2-C.sub.12 (e.g., C.sub.2-C.sub.8) alkyleneoxide (e.g., oligo(ethyleneoxide), such as (CH.sub.2CH.sub.20).sub.1-4(CH.sub.2CH.sub.2)), [(C.sub.1-C.sub.4) alkylene]-[(C.sub.4-C.sub.6) heterocycloalkyl]-[(C.sub.1-C.sub.4) alkylene]

##STR00390##

and [(C.sub.1-C.sub.4) alkylene]-phenylene-[(C.sub.1-C.sub.4) alkylene]

##STR00391##

[0563] Embodiment 93. The method of Embodiment 92, wherein L.sup.0, L.sup.1, and L.sup.2 are each independently at each occurrence selected from C.sub.1-C.sub.6 alkylene (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkylene), (C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkylene-O).sub.1-4(C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkylene), (C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkylene)-phenylene-(C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkylene)-, and (C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkylene)-piperazinyl-(C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkylene)-.

[0564] Embodiment 94. The method of Embodiment 92, wherein L.sup.0, L.sup.1, and L.sup.2 are each independently at each occurrence C.sub.1-C.sub.6 alkylene (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkylene).

[0565] Embodiment 95. The method of Embodiment 92, wherein L.sup.0, L.sup.1, and L.sup.2 are each independently at each occurrence C.sub.2-C.sub.12 (e.g., C.sub.2-C.sub.8) alkyleneoxide (e.g., (C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkylene-O).sub.1-4(C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkylene)).

[0566] Embodiment 96. The method of Embodiment 92, wherein L.sup.0, L.sup.1, and L.sup.2 are each independently at each occurrence selected from [(C.sub.1-C.sub.4) alkylene]-[(C.sub.4-C.sub.6) heterocycloalkyl]-[(C.sub.1-C.sub.4) alkylene](e.g., (C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkylene)-phenylene-(C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkylene)-) and [(C.sub.1-C.sub.4) alkylene]-[(C.sub.4-C.sub.6) heterocycloalkyl]-[(C.sub.1-C.sub.4) alkylene](e.g., (C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkylene)-piperazinyl-(C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkylene)-).

[0567] Embodiment 97. The method of any one of Embodiments 57-96, wherein each terminating group is independently C.sub.1-C.sub.18 (e.g., C.sub.4-C.sub.18) alkenylthiol or C.sub.1-C.sub.18 (e.g., C.sub.4-C.sub.18) alkylthiol, wherein the alkyl or alkenyl moiety is optionally substituted with one or more substituents each independently selected from halogen, C.sub.6-C.sub.12 aryl (e.g., phenyl), C.sub.1-C.sub.12 (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.8) alkylamino (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.6 mono-alkylamino (such as NHCH.sub.2CH.sub.2CH.sub.2CH.sub.3) or C.sub.1-C.sub.8 di-alkylamino (such as

##STR00392##

C.sub.4-C.sub.6 N-heterocycloalkyl (e.g., N-pyrrolidinyl

##STR00393##

N-piperidinyl

##STR00394##

N-azepanyl

##STR00395##

OH, C(O)OH, C(O)N(C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkyl)-(C.sub.1-C.sub.6 alkylene)-(C.sub.1-C.sub.12 alkylamino (e.g., mono- or di-alkylamino))

##STR00396##

C(O)N(C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkyl)-(C.sub.1-C.sub.6 alkylene)-(C.sub.4-C.sub.6 N-heterocycloalkyl)

##STR00397##

C(O)(C.sub.1-C.sub.12 alkylamino (e.g., mono- or di-alkylamino)), and C(O)(C.sub.4-C.sub.6 N-heterocycloalkyl

##STR00398##

wherein the C.sub.4-C.sub.6 N-heterocycloalkyl moiety of any of the preceding substituents is optionally substituted with C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkyl or C.sub.1-C.sub.3 hydroxyalkyl.

[0568] Embodiment 98. The method of Embodiment 97, wherein each terminating group is independently C.sub.1-C.sub.18 (e.g., C.sub.4-C.sub.18) alkylthiol, wherein the alkyl moiety is optionally substituted with one or more (e.g., one) substituents each independently selected from C.sub.6-C.sub.12 aryl (e.g., phenyl), C.sub.1-C.sub.12 (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.8) alkylamino (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.6 mono-alkylamino (such as NHCH.sub.2CH.sub.2CH.sub.2CH.sub.3) or C.sub.1-C.sub.8 di-alkylamino (such as

##STR00399##

C.sub.4-C.sub.6 N-heterocycloalkyl (e.g., N-pyrrolidinyl

##STR00400##

N-piperidinyl

##STR00401##

N-azepanyl

##STR00402##

OH, C(O)OH, C(O)N(C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkyl)-(C.sub.1-C.sub.6 alkylene)-(C.sub.1-C.sub.12 alkylamino (e.g., mono- or di-alkylamino))

##STR00403##

C(O)N(C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkyl)-(C.sub.1-C.sub.6 alkylene)-(C.sub.4-C.sub.6 N-heterocycloalkyl)

##STR00404##

and C(O)(C.sub.4-C.sub.6 N-heterocycloalkyl)

##STR00405##

wherein the C.sub.4-C.sub.6 N-heterocycloalkyl moiety of any of the preceding substituents is optionally substituted with C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkyl or C.sub.1-C.sub.3 hydroxyalkyl.

[0569] Embodiment 99. The method of Embodiment 98, wherein each terminating group is independently C.sub.1-C.sub.18 (e.g., C.sub.4-C.sub.18) alkylthiol, wherein the alkyl moiety is optionally substituted with one substituent OH.

[0570] Embodiment 100. The method of Embodiment 98, wherein each terminating group is independently C.sub.1-C.sub.18 (e.g., C.sub.4-C.sub.18) alkylthiol, wherein the alkyl moiety is optionally substituted with one substituent selected from C.sub.1-C.sub.12 (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.8) alkylamino (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.6 mono-alkylamino (such as NHCH.sub.2CH.sub.2CH.sub.2CH.sub.3) or C.sub.1-C.sub.8 di-alkylamino (such as

##STR00406##

and C.sub.4-C.sub.6 N-heterocycloalkyl (e.g., N-pyrrolidinyl

##STR00407##

N-piperidinyl

##STR00408##

N-azepanyl

##STR00409##

[0571] Embodiment 101. The method of Embodiment 97, wherein each terminating group is independently C.sub.1-C.sub.18 (e.g., C.sub.4-C.sub.18) alkenylthiol or C.sub.1-C.sub.18 (e.g., C.sub.4-C.sub.18) alkylthiol.

[0572] Embodiment 102. The method of Embodiment 101, wherein each terminating group is independently C.sub.1-C.sub.18 (e.g., C.sub.4-C.sub.18) alkylthiol.

[0573] Embodiment 103. The method of Embodiment 102, wherein each terminating group is independently selected from the group consisting of:

##STR00410##

[0574] Embodiment 104. The method of any one of Embodiments 57-96, wherein each terminating group is independently selected from those set forth in Table 3 or a subset thereof.

[0575] Embodiment 105. The method of any one of Embodiments 1-56, wherein the ionizable cationic lipid is selected from those set forth in Table 4, or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, or a subset of the lipids and the pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof.

[0576] Embodiment 106. The method of any one of Embodiments 1-56, wherein the ionizable cationic lipid is selected from those set forth in Table 4 or Table 5, or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, or a subset of the lipids and the pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof.

[0577] Embodiment 107. The method of any one of Embodiments 1-106, further comprising deriving a cell composition from said cell.

[0578] Embodiment 108. An engineered cell composition comprising or derived from a cell having an expression or activity of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) protein enhanced by a method of any one of Embodiments 1-106.

[0579] Embodiment 109. A composition comprising a nucleic acid editing system assembled with a lipid composition, wherein said nucleic acid editing system comprises: [0580] (i) a guide nucleic acid comprising a targeting sequence that is complementary with a target sequence of a cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene or transcript; [0581] (ii) a polypeptide comprising an endonuclease or a polynucleotide encoding said polypeptide, which endonuclease is configured to (1) form a complex with said guide nucleic acid and (2) cleave said CFTR gene or transcript in a cell in a cleavage event; and [0582] (iii) a donor template nucleic acid configured to alter said CFTR gene or transcript, subsequent to said cleavage event, to provide a functional CFTR gene, transcript or protein in said cell.

[0583] Embodiment 110. The composition of Embodiment 109, wherein said guide nucleic acid comprises a nucleotide sequence selected from those set forth in Table A and complementary sequences thereof.

[0584] Embodiment 111. The composition of Embodiment 109 or 110, wherein said donor template nucleic acid comprises a nucleotide sequence selected from those set forth in Table B and complementary sequences thereof.

[0585] Embodiment 112. The composition of any one of Embodiments 109-111, wherein said donor template nucleic acid comprises a 5 homology arm.

[0586] Embodiment 113. The composition of any one of Embodiments 109-112, wherein said donor template nucleic acid comprises a 3 homology arm.

[0587] Embodiment 114. The composition of any one of Embodiments 109-113, wherein (ii) is a messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) encoding said polypeptide comprising said endonuclease.

[0588] Embodiment 115. The composition of any one of Embodiments 109-113, wherein (ii) is said polypeptide comprising said endonuclease.

[0589] Embodiment 116. The composition of any one of Embodiments 109-115, wherein said endonuclease is a CRISPR-associated (Cas) polypeptide or a modification thereof.

[0590] Embodiment 117. The composition of Embodiment 116, wherein said endonuclease is Cas9.

[0591] Embodiment 118. The composition of any one of Embodiments 109-117, wherein (i) and (iii) are present on two different molecules.

[0592] Embodiment 119. The composition of any one of Embodiments 109-118, wherein (i), (ii), and (iii) are present on three different molecules.

[0593] Embodiment 120. The composition of any one of Embodiments 109-118, wherein at least two of (i), (ii) and (iii) are present on one molecule.

[0594] Embodiment 121. The composition of any one of Embodiments 109-120, wherein (i) and (ii) are present in said composition at a molar or weight ratio from 1:1 to 1:20.

[0595] Embodiment 122. The composition of any one of Embodiments 109-121, wherein (i) and (iii) are present in said composition at a molar or weight ratio from 1:1 to 1:30.

[0596] Embodiment 123. The composition of any one of Embodiments 109-122, wherein said lipid composition comprises: an ionizable cationic lipid; and a selective organ targeting (SORT) lipid separate from said ionizable cationic lipid.

[0597] Embodiment 124. The composition of Embodiment 123, wherein said therapeutic effect is characterized by an amount or activity of said agent detectable in said at least about 10% (e.g., at least about 15%) basal cells in said organ or tissue of said subject.

[0598] Embodiment 125. The composition of any one of Embodiments 109-124, wherein said lipid composition further comprises (iii) a phospholipid.

[0599] Embodiment 126. The composition of any one of Embodiments 109-125, wherein said lipid composition comprises said SORT lipid at a molar percentage from about 20% to about 65%.

[0600] Embodiment 127. The composition of any one of Embodiments 109-126, wherein said lipid composition comprises said ionizable cationic lipid at a molar percentage from about 5% to about 30%.

[0601] Embodiment 128. The composition of any one of Embodiments 109-127, wherein said lipid composition comprises said phospholipid at a molar percentage from about 8% to about 23%.

[0602] Embodiment 129. The composition of any one of Embodiments 109-128, wherein said phospholipid is not an ethylphosphocholine.

[0603] Embodiment 130. The composition of any one of Embodiments 109-129, wherein said lipid composition further comprises a steroid or steroid derivative.

[0604] Embodiment 131. The composition of Embodiment 130, wherein said lipid composition comprises said steroid or steroid derivative at a molar percentage from about 15% to about 46%.

[0605] Embodiment 132. The composition of any one of Embodiments 109-131, wherein said lipid composition further comprises a polymer-conjugated lipid (e.g., poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG)-conjugated lipid).

[0606] Embodiment 133. The composition of Embodiment 132, wherein said lipid composition comprises said polymer-conjugated lipid at a molar percentage from about 0.5% to about 10%.

[0607] Embodiment 134. The composition of Embodiment 132, wherein said lipid composition comprises said polymer-conjugated lipid at a molar percentage from about 1% to about 10%.

[0608] Embodiment 135. The composition of Embodiment 132, wherein said lipid composition comprises said polymer-conjugated lipid at a molar percentage from about 2% to about 10%.

[0609] Embodiment 136. The composition of any one of Embodiments 109-135, wherein said therapeutic agent is a polynucleotide; and wherein a molar ratio of nitrogen in said lipid composition to phosphate in said polynucleotide (N/P ratio) is no more than about 20:1.

[0610] Embodiment 137. The composition of Embodiment 136, wherein said N/P ratio is from about 5:1 to about 20:1.

[0611] Embodiment 138. The composition of any one of Embodiments 109-137, wherein a molar ratio of said therapeutic agent to total lipids of said lipid composition is no more than about 1:1, 1:10, 1:50, or 1:100.

[0612] Embodiment 139. The composition of any one of Embodiments 109-138, wherein at least about 85% of said therapeutic agent is encapsulated in particles of said lipid compositions.

[0613] Embodiment 140. The composition of any one of Embodiments 109-139, wherein said lipid composition comprises a plurality of particles characterized by one or more characteristics of the following: [0614] (1) a (e.g., average) size of 100 nanometers (nm) or less; [0615] (2) a polydispersity index (PDI) of no more than about 0.2; and [0616] (3) a negative zeta potential of 10 millivolts (mV) to 10 mV.

[0617] Embodiment 141. The composition of any one of Embodiments 109-140, wherein said lipid composition has an apparent ionization constant (pKa) outside a range of 6 to 7.

[0618] Embodiment 142. The composition of Embodiment 141, wherein said apparent pKa of said lipid composition is of about 7 or higher.

[0619] Embodiment 143. The composition of Embodiment 141, wherein said apparent pKa of said lipid composition is of about 8 or higher.

[0620] Embodiment 144. The composition of Embodiment 143, wherein said apparent pKa of said lipid composition is from about 8 to about 13.

[0621] Embodiment 145. The composition of any one of Embodiments 109-144, wherein said SORT lipid comprises a permanently positively charged moiety (e.g., a quaternary ammonium ion).

[0622] Embodiment 146. The composition of Embodiment 145, wherein said SORT lipid comprises a counterion.

[0623] Embodiment 147. The composition of any one of Embodiments 109-146, wherein said SORT lipid is a phosphocholine lipid (e.g., saturated or unsaturated).

[0624] Embodiment 148. The composition of any one of Embodiments 147, wherein said SORT lipid is an ethylphosphocholine.

[0625] Embodiment 149. The composition of any one of Embodiments 109-148, wherein said SORT lipid comprises a headgroup having a structural formula:

##STR00411##

wherein L is a (e.g., biodegradable) linker, Z.sup.+ is positively charged moiety (e.g., a quaternary ammonium ion); and X.sup. is a counterion.

[0626] Embodiment 150. The composition of Embodiment 149, wherein said SORT lipid has a structural formula:

##STR00412##

wherein R.sup.1 and R.sup.2 are each independently an optionally substituted C.sub.6-C.sub.24 alkyl, or an optionally substituted C.sub.6-C.sub.24 alkenyl.

[0627] Embodiment 151. The composition of Embodiment 149, wherein said SORT lipid has a structural formula:

##STR00413##

[0628] Embodiment 152. The composition of any one of Embodiments 149-151, wherein L is

##STR00414##

wherein: p and q are each independently 1, 2, or 3; and R.sup.4 is an optionally substituted C.sub.1-C.sub.6 alkyl.

[0629] Embodiment 153. The composition of Embodiment 149, wherein said SORT lipid has a structural formula:

##STR00415##

wherein: [0630] R.sub.1 and R.sub.2 are each independently alkyl.sub.(C8-C24), alkenyl.sub.(C8-C24), or a substituted version of either group; [0631] R.sub.3, R.sub.3, and R.sub.3 are each independently alkyl.sub.(C6) or substituted alkyl.sub.(C6); [0632] R.sup.4 is alkyl.sub.(C6) or substituted alkyl.sub.(C6); and [0633] X.sup. is a monovalent anion.

[0634] Embodiment 154. The composition of any one of Embodiments 109-146, wherein said SORT lipid has a structural formula:

##STR00416## [0635] wherein: [0636] R.sub.1 and R.sub.2 are each independently alkyl.sub.(C8-C24), alkenyl.sub.(C8-C24), or a substituted version of either group; [0637] R.sub.3, R.sub.3, and R.sub.3 are each independently alkyl.sub.(C6) or substituted alkyl.sub.(C6); [0638] X.sup. is a monovalent anion.

[0639] Embodiment 155. The composition of any one of Embodiments 109-146, wherein said SORT lipid has a structural formula:

##STR00417## [0640] wherein: [0641] R.sub.1 and R.sub.2 are each independently alkyl.sub.(C8-C24), alkenyl.sub.(C8-C24), or a substituted version of either group; [0642] R.sub.3, R.sub.3, and R.sub.3 are each independently alkyl.sub.(C6) or substituted alkyl.sub.(C6); [0643] X.sup. is a monovalent anion.

[0644] Embodiment 156. The composition of any one of Embodiments 109-146, wherein said SORT lipid has a structural formula:

##STR00418## [0645] wherein: [0646] R.sub.4 and R.sub.4 are each independently alkyl.sub.(C6-C24), alkenyl.sub.(C6-C24), or a substituted version of either group; [0647] R.sub.4 is alkyl.sub.(C4), alkenyl.sub.(C24), or a substituted version of either group; [0648] R.sub.4 is alkyl.sub.(C1-C8), alkenyl.sub.(C2-C8), or a substituted version of either group; and [0649] X.sub.2 is a monovalent anion.

[0650] Embodiment 157. The composition of any one of Embodiments 109-144, wherein said SORT lipid is selected from those set forth in Table 6, or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, or a subset of the lipids and the pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof.

[0651] Embodiment 158. The composition of any one of Embodiments 109-157, wherein the ionizable cationic lipid is a dendrimer or dendron of a generation (g) having a structural formula:

##STR00419##

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein: [0652] (a) the core comprises a structural formula (X.sub.Core):

##STR00420## [0653] wherein: [0654] Q is independently at each occurrence a covalent bond, O, S, NR.sup.2, or CR.sup.3aR.sup.3b; [0655] R.sup.2 is independently at each occurrence R.sup.1g or -L.sup.2-NR.sup.1eR.sup.1f; [0656] R.sup.3a and R.sup.3b are each independently at each occurrence hydrogen or an optionally substituted (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.6, such as C.sub.1-C.sub.3) alkyl; [0657] R.sup.1a, R.sup.1b, R.sup.1c, R.sup.1d, R.sup.1e, R.sup.1f, and R.sup.1g (if present) are each independently at each occurrence a point of connection to a branch, hydrogen, or an optionally substituted (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.12) alkyl; [0658] L.sup.0, L.sup.1, and L.sup.2 are each independently at each occurrence selected from a covalent bond, (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.12, such as C.sub.1-C.sub.6 or C.sub.1-C.sub.3) alkylene, (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.12, such as C.sub.1-C.sub.8 or C.sub.1-C.sub.6) heteroalkylene (e.g., C.sub.2-C.sub.8 alkyleneoxide, such as oligo(ethyleneoxide)), [(e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.6) alkylene]-[(e.g., C.sub.4-C.sub.6) heterocycloalkyl]-[(e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.6) alkylene], [(e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.6) alkylene]-(arylene)-[(e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.6) alkylene](e.g., [(e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.6) alkylene]-phenylene-[(e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.6) alkylene]), (e.g., C.sub.4-C.sub.6) heterocycloalkyl, and arylene (e.g., phenylene); or, [0659] alternatively, part of L.sup.1 form a (e.g., C.sub.4-C.sub.6) heterocycloalkyl (e.g., containing one or two nitrogen atoms and, optionally, an additional heteroatom selected from oxygen and sulfur) with one of R.sup.1e and R.sup.1d; and [0660] x.sup.1 is 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6; and [0661] (b) each branch of the plurality (N) of branches independently comprises a structural formula (X.sup.Branch):

##STR00421## [0662] wherein: [0663] * indicates a point of attachment of the branch to the core; 450 [0664] g is 1, 2, 3, or 4; [0665] Z=2.sup.(g-1); [0666] G=0, when g=1; or G=.sub.i=0.sup.i=g-2 2.sup.i, when g1; [0667] (c) each diacyl group independently comprises a structural formula

##STR00422## wherein: [0668] * indicates a point of attachment of the diacyl group at the proximal end thereof; [0669] ** indicates a point of attachment of the diacyl group at the distal end thereof; [0670] Y.sup.3 is independently at each occurrence an optionally substituted (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.12); alkylene, an optionally substituted (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.12) alkenylene, or an optionally substituted (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.12) arenylene; [0671] A.sup.1 and A.sup.2 are each independently at each occurrence O, S, or NR.sup.4, wherein: [0672] R.sup.4 is hydrogen or optionally substituted (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.6) alkyl; [0673] m.sup.1 and m.sup.2 are each independently at each occurrence 1, 2, or 3; and [0674] R.sup.3c, R.sup.3d, R.sup.3e, and R.sup.3f are each independently at each occurrence hydrogen or an optionally substituted (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.8) alkyl; and [0675] (d) each linker group independently comprises a structural formula

##STR00423## [0676] wherein: [0677] ** indicates a point of attachment of the linker to a proximal diacyl group; [0678] *** indicates a point of attachment of the linker to a distal diacyl group; and [0679] Y.sub.1 is independently at each occurrence an optionally substituted (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.12) alkylene, an optionally substituted (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.12) alkenylene, or an optionally substituted (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.12) arenylene; and [0680] (e) each terminating group is independently selected from optionally substituted (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.18, such as C.sub.4-C.sub.18) alkylthiol, and optionally substituted (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.18, such as C.sub.4-C.sub.18) alkenylthiol.

[0681] Embodiment 159. The composition of Embodiment 158, wherein x.sup.1 is 0, 1, 2, or 3.

[0682] Embodiment 160. The composition of Embodiment 158 or 159, wherein R.sup.1a, R.sup.1b, R.sup.1c, R.sup.1d, R.sup.1e, R.sup.1f, and R.sup.1g (if present) are each independently at each occurrence a point of connection to a branch (e.g., as indicated by *), hydrogen, or C.sub.1-C.sub.12 alkyl (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.8 alkyl, such as C.sub.1-C.sub.6 alkyl or C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkyl), wherein the alkyl moiety is optionally substituted with one or more substituents each independently selected from OH, C.sub.4-C.sub.8 (e.g., C.sub.4-C.sub.6) heterocycloalkyl (e.g., piperidinyl

##STR00424##

N(C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkyl)-piperidinyl

##STR00425##

piperazinyl

##STR00426##

N(C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkyl)-piperadizinyl

##STR00427##

morpholinyl

##STR00428##

N-pyrrolidinyl

##STR00429##

pyrrolidinyl

##STR00430##

or N(C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkyl)-pyrrolidinyl

##STR00431##

(e.g., C.sub.6-C.sub.10) aryl, and C.sub.3-C.sub.5 heteroaryl (e.g., imidazolyl

##STR00432##

or pyridinyl

##STR00433##

[0683] Embodiment 161. The composition of Embodiment 160, wherein R.sup.1a, R.sup.1b, R.sup.1c, R.sup.1d, R.sup.1e, R.sup.1f, and R.sup.1g (if present) are each independently at each occurrence a point of connection to a branch (e.g., as indicated by *), hydrogen, or C.sub.1-C.sub.12 alkyl (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.8 alkyl, such as C.sub.1-C.sub.6 alkyl or C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkyl), wherein the alkyl moiety is optionally substituted with one substituent OH.

[0684] Embodiment 162. The composition of any one of Embodiments 158-161, wherein R.sup.3a and R.sup.3b are each independently at each occurrence hydrogen.

[0685] Embodiment 163. The composition of any one of Embodiments 158-162, wherein the plurality (N) of branches comprises at least 3 (e.g., at least 4, or at least 5) branches.

[0686] Embodiment 164. The composition of any one of Embodiments 158-163, wherein g=1; G=0; and Z=1.

[0687] Embodiment 165. The composition of Embodiment 164, wherein each branch of the plurality of branches comprises a structural formula

##STR00434##

[0688] Embodiment 166. The composition of any one of Embodiments 158-163, wherein g=2; G=1; and Z=2.

[0689] Embodiment 167. The composition of Embodiment 166, wherein each branch of the plurality of branches comprises a structural formula

##STR00435##

[0690] Embodiment 168. The composition of any one of Embodiments 158-167, wherein the core comprises a structural formula:

##STR00436##

[0691] Embodiment 169. The composition of any one of Embodiments 158-167, wherein the core comprises a structural formula:

##STR00437##

[0692] Embodiment 170. The composition of Embodiment 169, wherein the core comprises a structural formula:

##STR00438##

[0693] Embodiment 171. The composition of Embodiment 169, wherein the core comprises a structural formula:

##STR00439##

such as

##STR00440##

[0694] Embodiment 172. The composition of any one of Embodiments 158-167, wherein the core comprises a structural formula:

##STR00441##

wherein Q is NR.sup.2 or CR.sup.3aR.sup.3b; q.sup.1 and q.sup.2 are each independently 1 or 2.

[0695] Embodiment 173. The composition of Embodiment 172, wherein the core comprises a structural formula:

##STR00442##

[0696] Embodiment 174. The composition of any one of Embodiments 158-167, wherein the core comprises a structural formula

##STR00443##

wherein ring A is an optionally substituted aryl or an optionally substituted (e.g., C.sub.3-C.sub.12, such as C.sub.3-C.sub.5) heteroaryl.

[0697] Embodiment 175. The composition of any one of Embodiments 158-167, wherein the core comprises has a structural formula

##STR00444##

[0698] Embodiment 176. The composition of any one of Embodiments 158-167, wherein the core is selected from those set forth in Table 1 or a subset thereof.

[0699] Embodiment 177. The composition of any one of Embodiments 158-167, wherein the core comprises a structural formula selected from the group consisting of:

##STR00445## ##STR00446## ##STR00447## ##STR00448##

and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, wherein * indicates a point of attachment of the core to a branch of the plurality of branches.

[0700] Embodiment 178. The composition of any one of Embodiments 158-167, wherein the core comprises a structural formula selected from the group consisting of:

##STR00449##

and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, wherein * indicates a point of attachment of the core to a branch of the plurality of branches.

[0701] Embodiment 179. The composition of any one of Embodiments 158-167, wherein the core has the structure

##STR00450##

wherein * indicates a point of attachment of the core to a branch of the plurality of branches or H.

[0702] Embodiment 180. The composition of Embodiment 179, wherein at least 2 branches are attached to the core.

[0703] Embodiment 181. The composition of Embodiment 179, wherein at least 3 branches are attached to the core.

[0704] Embodiment 182. The composition of Embodiment 179, wherein at least 4 branches are attached to the core.

[0705] Embodiment 183. The composition of any one of Embodiments 158-167, wherein the core has the structure

##STR00451##

wherein * indicates a point of attachment of the core to a branch of the plurality of branches or H.

[0706] Embodiment 184. The composition of Embodiment 183, wherein at least 4 branches are attached to the core.

[0707] Embodiment 185. The composition of Embodiment 183, wherein at least 5 branches are attached to the core.

[0708] Embodiment 186. The composition of Embodiment 183, wherein at least 6 branches are attached to the core.

[0709] Embodiment 187. The composition of any one of Embodiments 158-186, wherein A.sup.1 is O or NH.

[0710] Embodiment 188. The composition of Embodiment 187, wherein A.sup.1 is O.

[0711] Embodiment 189. The composition of any one of Embodiments 158-188, wherein A.sup.2 is O or NH.

[0712] Embodiment 190. The composition of any Embodiment 189, wherein A.sup.2 is O.

[0713] Embodiment 191. The composition of any one of Embodiments 158-190, wherein Y.sup.3 is C.sub.1-C.sub.12 (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.6, such as C.sub.1-C.sub.3) alkylene.

[0714] Embodiment 192. The composition of any one of Embodiments 158-191, wherein the diacyl group independently at each occurrence comprises a structural formula

##STR00452##

such as

##STR00453##

optionally wherein R.sup.3c, R.sup.3d, R.sup.3e, and R.sup.3f are each independently at each occurrence hydrogen or C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkyl.

[0715] Embodiment 193. The composition of any one of Embodiments 158-192, wherein L.sup.0, L.sup.1, and L.sup.2 are each independently at each occurrence selected from a covalent bond, C.sub.1-C.sub.6 alkylene (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkylene), C.sub.2-C.sub.12 (e.g., C.sub.2-C.sub.8) alkyleneoxide (e.g., oligo(ethyleneoxide), such as (CH.sub.2CH.sub.2O).sub.1-4(CH.sub.2CH.sub.2)), [(C.sub.1-C.sub.4) alkylene]-[(C.sub.4-C.sub.6) heterocycloalkyl]-[(C.sub.1-C.sub.4) alkylene]

##STR00454##

and [(C.sub.1-C.sub.4) alkylene]-phenylene-[(C.sub.1-C.sub.4) alkylene]

##STR00455##

[0716] Embodiment 194. The composition of Embodiment 193, wherein L.sup.0, L.sup.1, and L.sup.2 are each independently at each occurrence selected from C.sub.1-C.sub.6 alkylene (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkylene), (C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkylene-O).sub.1-4(C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkylene), (C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkylene)-phenylene-(C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkylene)-, and (C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkylene)-piperazinyl-(C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkylene)-.

[0717] Embodiment 195. The composition of Embodiment 193, wherein L.sup.0, L.sup.1, and L.sup.2 are each independently at each occurrence C.sub.1-C.sub.6 alkylene (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkylene).

[0718] Embodiment 196. The composition of Embodiment 193, wherein L.sup.0, L.sup.1, and L.sup.2 are each independently at each occurrence C.sub.2-C.sub.12 (e.g., C.sub.2-C.sub.8) alkyleneoxide (e.g., (C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkylene-O).sub.1-4(C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkylene)).

[0719] Embodiment 197. The composition of Embodiment 193, wherein L.sup.0, L.sup.1, and L.sup.2 are each independently at each occurrence selected from [(C.sub.1-C.sub.4) alkylene]-[(C.sub.4-C.sub.6) heterocycloalkyl]-[(C.sub.1-C.sub.4) alkylene](e.g., (C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkylene)-phenylene-(C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkylene)-) and [(C.sub.1-C.sub.4) alkylene]-[(C.sub.4-C.sub.6) heterocycloalkyl]-[(C.sub.1-C.sub.4) alkylene](e.g., (C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkylene)-piperazinyl-(C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkylene)-).

[0720] Embodiment 198. The composition of any one of Embodiments 158-197, wherein each terminating group is independently C.sub.1-C.sub.18 (e.g., C.sub.4-C.sub.18) alkenylthiol or C.sub.1-C.sub.18 (e.g., C.sub.4-C.sub.18) alkylthiol, wherein the alkyl or alkenyl moiety is optionally substituted with one or more substituents each independently selected from halogen, C.sub.6-C.sub.12 aryl (e.g., phenyl), C.sub.1-C.sub.12 (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.8) alkylamino (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.6 mono-alkylamino (such as NHCH.sub.2CH.sub.2CH.sub.2CH.sub.3) or C.sub.1-C.sub.8 di-alkylamino (such as

##STR00456##

C.sub.4-C.sub.6 N-heterocycloalkyl (e.g., N-pyrrolidinyl

##STR00457##

N-piperidinyl

##STR00458##

N-azepanyl

##STR00459##

OH, C(O)OH, C(O)N(C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkyl)-(C.sub.1-C.sub.6 alkylene)-(C.sub.1-C.sub.12 alkylamino (e.g., mono- or di-alkylamino))

##STR00460##

C(O)N(C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkyl)-(C.sub.1-C.sub.6 alkylene)-(C.sub.4-C.sub.6 N-heterocycloalkyl)

##STR00461##

C(O)(C.sub.1-C.sub.12 alkylamino (e.g., mono- or di-alkylamino)), and C(O)(C.sub.4-C.sub.6 N-heterocycloalkyl)

##STR00462##

wherein the C.sub.4-C.sub.6 N-heterocycloalkyl moiety of any of the preceding substituents is optionally substituted with C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkyl or C.sub.1-C.sub.3 hydroxyalkyl.

[0721] Embodiment 199. The composition of Embodiment 198, wherein each terminating group is independently C.sub.1-C.sub.18 (e.g., C.sub.4-C.sub.18) alkylthiol, wherein the alkyl moiety is optionally substituted with one or more (e.g., one) substituents each independently selected from C.sub.6-C.sub.12 aryl (e.g., phenyl), C.sub.1-C.sub.12 (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.8) alkylamino (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.6 mono-alkylamino (such as NHCH.sub.2CH.sub.2CH.sub.2CH.sub.3) or C.sub.1-C.sub.8 di-alkylamino (such as

##STR00463##

C.sub.4-C.sub.6 N-heterocycloalkyl (e.g., N-pyrrolidinyl

##STR00464##

N-piperidinyl

##STR00465##

N-azepanyl

##STR00466##

OH, C(O)OH, C(O)N(C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkyl)-(C.sub.1-C.sub.6 alkylene)-(C.sub.1-C.sub.12 alkylamino (e.g., mono- or di-alkylamino))

##STR00467##

C(O)N(C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkyl)-(C.sub.1-C.sub.6 alkylene)-(C.sub.4-C.sub.6 N-heterocycloalkyl

##STR00468##

and C(O)(C.sub.4-C.sub.6 N-heterocycloalkyl)

##STR00469##

wherein the C.sub.4-C.sub.6 N-heterocycloalkyl moiety of any of the preceding substituents is optionally substituted with C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkyl or C.sub.1-C.sub.3 hydroxyalkyl.

[0722] Embodiment 200. The composition of Embodiment 199, wherein each terminating group is independently C.sub.1-C.sub.18 (e.g., C.sub.4-C.sub.18) alkylthiol, wherein the alkyl moiety is optionally substituted with one substituent OH.

[0723] Embodiment 201. The composition of Embodiment 199, wherein each terminating group is independently C.sub.1-C.sub.18 (e.g., C.sub.4-C.sub.18) alkylthiol, wherein the alkyl moiety is optionally substituted with one substituent selected from C.sub.1-C.sub.12 (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.8) alkylamino (e.g., C.sub.1-C.sub.6 mono-alkylamino (such as NHCH.sub.2CH.sub.2CH.sub.2CH.sub.3) or C.sub.1-C.sub.8 di-alkylamino (such as

##STR00470##

and C.sub.4-C.sub.6 N-heterocycloalkyl (e.g., N-pyrrolidinyl

##STR00471##

N-piperidinyl

##STR00472##

N-azepanyl

##STR00473##

[0724] Embodiment 202. The composition of Embodiment 198, wherein each terminating group is independently C.sub.1-C.sub.18 (e.g., C.sub.4-C.sub.18) alkenylthiol or C.sub.1-C.sub.18 (e.g., C.sub.4-C.sub.18) alkylthiol.

[0725] Embodiment 203. The composition of Embodiment 202, wherein each terminating group is independently C.sub.1-C.sub.18 (e.g., C.sub.4-C.sub.18) alkylthiol.

[0726] Embodiment 204. The composition of Embodiment 203, wherein each terminating group is independently selected from the group consisting of:

##STR00474## ##STR00475##

[0727] Embodiment 205. The composition of any one of Embodiments 158-197, wherein each terminating group is independently selected from those set forth in Table 3 or a subset thereof.

[0728] Embodiment 206. The composition of any one of Embodiments 109-157, wherein the ionizable cationic lipid is selected from those set forth in Table 4, or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, or a subset of the lipids and the pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof.

[0729] Embodiment 207. The composition of any one of Embodiments 109-157, wherein the ionizable cationic lipid is selected from those set forth in Table 4 or Table 5, or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, or a subset of the lipids and the pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof.

[0730] Embodiment 208. The composition of any one of Embodiments 109-207, wherein said composition is formulated for pharmaceutical (e.g., systemic) administration.

[0731] Embodiment 209. An engineered cell composition comprising or derived from a cell, which cell comprises a heterologous cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene, transcript or protein produced by a composition of any one of Embodiments 109-208.

[0732] Embodiment 210. A method for genetic correction of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) in a lung basal cell, comprising: contacting said lung basal cell with a composition that comprises a nucleic acid editing system assembled with a lipid composition, thereby delivering said nucleic acid editing system to said lung basal cell.

[0733] Embodiment 211. A method for genetic correction of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) in a cell composition, comprising: contacting said cell composition comprising a plurality of lung basal cells with a composition that comprises a nucleic acid editing system assembled with a lipid composition, thereby delivering said nucleic acid editing system to at least about 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 60%, 65%, or 70% of said plurality of lung basal cells.

[0734] Embodiment 212. A method for genetic correction of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) in a cell composition, comprising: contacting said cell composition with a composition that comprises a nucleic acid editing system assembled with a lipid composition, which cell composition comprise a lung basal cell and a lung non-basal cell, thereby delivering said nucleic acid editing system to said lung basal cell in a greater amount than that delivered to said lung non-basal cell.

[0735] Embodiment 213. The method of Embodiment 212, wherein said non-basal cell is an ionocyte, a ciliated cell, or a secretory cell.

[0736] Embodiment 214. The method of any one of Embodiments 210-213, wherein said lung basal cell or said plurality of lung basal cells is/are determined to exhibit a mutation in CFTR gene.

[0737] Embodiment 215. The method of any one of Embodiments 210-213, wherein said lung basal cell or said plurality of lung basal cells exhibit(s) a mutation in CFTR gene.

[0738] Embodiment 216. The method of any one of Embodiments 210-215, wherein said lung basal cell or said plurality of lung basal cells is/are from a subject

[0739] Embodiment 217. The method of Embodiment 216, wherein said subject is determined to exhibit a mutation in CFTR gene.

[0740] Embodiment 218. The method of Embodiment 216, wherein said subject exhibits a mutation in CFTR gene.

[0741] Embodiment 219. The method of any one of Embodiments 210-218, wherein said contacting is ex vivo.

[0742] Embodiment 220. The method of any one of Embodiments 210-218, wherein said contacting is in vitro.

[0743] Embodiment 221. The method of any one of Embodiments 210-218, wherein said contacting is in vivo.

[0744] Embodiment 222. A method for treating a subject having or suspected of having a cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR)-associated condition, the method comprising administering to said subject a composition comprising a nucleic acid editing system assembled with a lipid composition.

[0745] Embodiment 223. The method of Embodiment 222, wherein said CFTR-associated condition is cystic fibrosis, hereditary emphysema, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or a combination thereof.

[0746] Embodiment 224. The method of Embodiment 222 or 223, wherein said subject is a mammal.

[0747] Embodiment 225. The method of Embodiment 224, wherein said subject is a human.

[0748] Embodiment 226. The method of any one of Embodiments 222-225, wherein said subject is determined to exhibit a mutation (e.g., F508del or G542X) in CFTR gene.

[0749] Embodiment 227. The method of any one of Embodiments 222-226, wherein said administering comprises systemic administration.

[0750] Embodiment 228. The method of any one of Embodiments 208-227, wherein said lipid composition is according to any one of embodiments 24-106 or 123-207.

EXAMPLES

Example 1: Editing of CFTR

[0751] Human bronchial epithelial cells are thawed and plated. 510.sup.5 undifferentiated HBE cells were seeded into each well of 6-well plates overnight before treatment. At day 1, 100 L of LNP sample solution was added into each well containing 2 mL of fresh medium (1 ug total nucleic acid per well). 3 wells of the plate are treated with liponanoparticles comprising Cas9 mRNA, gRNA specific for CFTR, and a donor nucleic acid specific for F508del mutant allele, and 1 well is subject to a control formulation. After 4-5 days cells are passaged in to a T-75 flask and allowed to grow for 7-10 days. A sample of 500,000 cells is removed and lyse.

[0752] The lyse cells are subjected to sequencing and the CFTR gene is analyzed to determine correction. Corrected cells are passage again and plated on HTS transwell filter plates to and allowed to differentiate. The cells are then subjected to analysis to determine the presence of protein expression and properly functioning cells.

Quantification Methods of Mature CFTR

[0753] Cells are lysed directly in 2 Sample Buffer ((Tris-HCL 250 mM, pH 6.8, 20% Glycerol, 2.5% SDS, 0.1% Bromophenol blue). Cell lysate proteins were separated by electrophoresis on 7%/10% step (wt/vol) polyacrylanide gels using a Tris-glycine buffering system and transferred to polyvinylidene fluoride Immobilon membranes (EMD Millipore). Western blot analysis was performed using primary CFTR antibody (596) (University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC), actin antibody (EMD Millipore), and secondary antibody IRdye-680RD (Li-Cor) and imaged/quantified using a Li-Cor Odyssey CLx (Li-Cor). Data was plotted using Prism 6 (Graphpad).

CFTR-Dependent Whole-Cell Current Detection

[0754] Whole-cell configuration of the patch-clamp technique was used to measure the Cl current. The pipette solution contained 145 mM NMDG.sup.+-Cl.sup., 1 mM MgCl.sub.2, 2 mM EGTA, 5 mM ATP, and 10 mM HEPES (pH 7.3 with Tris). The bath solution was 145 mM NMDG.sup.+-Cl.sup., 1 mM MgCl.sub.2, 1 mM CaCl.sub.2, 10 mM HEPES and 10 mM glucose (pH 7.4 with Tris). The current was recorded with an Axopatch 200B patch-clamp amplifier and digitized at 2 kHz. The membrane conductance was probed by stepping the membrane potential from a holding potential of 0 mV to membrane potentials 40 and +40 mV steps for 200 ms. Whole-cell current responses were measured in response to 10 M forskolin plus 100 M IBMX and 10 M CFTRInh-172 (Inh-172). Pipettes had resistances between 3 and 5 M when filled with pipette solution and seal resistance exceeded 8 GU. Current recording and analysis was performed with pClamp 9.2 software and analyzed with Origin 8 software.

Example 2: Detection of CFTR Editing

[0755] Undifferentiated Human bronchial epithelial cells (unHBE) were thawed and plated. 465,000 undifferentiated HBE cells were seeded into each well of 6-well plates overnight before treatment. After 3 days the cells were lysed. The lyse cells were subjected to sequencing and the CFTR gene are analyzed to determine correction. FIG. 1A shows a chart of indel % for different LNP compositions. The chart indicates a successful introduction of indels into the CFTR gene. For example, sgF508Del-1 (SEQ ID NO. 1) and SgF508-1-NTS-60 (SEQ ID NO: 6) were used for HBE treatment.

[0756] In another plate, 1 g of total RNA (including Cas9 mRNA, gRNA specific for CFTR, and a donor nucleic acid specific for F508del mutant allele) was added to each well. FIG. 1B shows sets of a chart of the editing of hBEs using different LNP compositions, with corresponding numbers shown in FIG. 1B.

[0757] In another set of example experiments, 510.sup.5 undifferentiated HBE cells were seeded into each well of 6-well plates overnight before treatment. At day 1, 100 L of LNP sample solution was added into each well containing 2 mL of fresh medium (1 ug total nucleic acid per well), changed to fresh medium at day 3 and collected cells for PCR and sequencing at day 4. FIG. 1D shows an additional chart of the editing of hBEs using different LNP compositions. The % of indels and the knockout and knock-in scores were analyzed for different donor nucleic acids. The compositions are able to knock-in a correction to the cells, as well as knock-out a sequence of the gene when delivered without a donor nucleic acid. FIG. 1D illustrates Indel % and Knock-in % after treated HBE cells with DOTAP 10 LNPs containing different HDR templates. HDR groups involved co-delivery of Cas9 mRNA, sgF508del, and the respective HDR template in DOTAP 10 LNPs. DOTAP 10 LNPs only (LNP ONLY) and DOTAP 10 LNPs encapsulating Cas9 mRNA and sgF508del (INDEL ONLY) were used as controls. These data were analyzed with TIDER analysis based on Sanger DNA sequencing data. Indels (%) refers to insertions and deletions by non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) (leading to gene knockout). Knockin (%) refers to gene correction by homology directed repair (HDR)).

[0758] Example tested lipid compositions generally include 40-50% DOTAP 5A2-SC8 SORT LNP formulations (for in vivo lung editing) and 10% DOTAP 5A2-SC8 SORT LNP formulations (for in vitro gene editing). For example, in F508del HBEs treatment experiments, lung SORT formulations DOTAP 10 (that comprise 10 mol % DOTAP), and the functional variations with slightly tweaked molar ratios, were used. An example formulation used to aid in vitro transfection and F508del HBE editing was 5A2-SC8:DOPE:Cholesterol:PEG2000-DMG:DOTAP=32.4:18:36:3.6:10 (mol/mol), where total lipids: total nucleic acids=40:1 (wt/wt). Cas9 mRNA, sgRNA, and ssDNA template (Weight ratio among Cas9 mRNA:sgRNA:HDR=0.5:1:6) were assembled with the lipid delivery composition.

[0759] DOTAP 40 LNPs were also explored for effective in vivo gene editing in lungs. For example, 5A2-SC8:DOPE:Cholesterol:DMG-PEG:DOTAP=21.6:12:24:2.4:40 (molar ratio) was utilized. Total lipid:total nucleic acid=20:1 (mass ratio); Weight ratio among Cas9 mRNA:sgRNA:HDR=0.5:1:6.

Example 3: Gene Correction of CFTRG542X

[0760] Hela-G542X cells are thawed and plated. 1 g of total RNA (including Cas9 mRNA, gRNA specific for CFTR, and a donor nucleic acid specific for G542X mutant allele). After 3 days the cells were lysed. The lyse cells were subjected to sequencing and the CFTR gene are analyzed to determine correction. FIG. 2A shows sets of a chart of the editing of Hela-G542X cells, with corresponding numbers shown in FIG. 2B. The % of indels and the knockout and knock-in scores were analyzed for different donor nucleic acids. The compositions are able to knock-in a correction to the cells at a rate of around 20%.

[0761] 1.510.sup.5 Hela-G542X cells were seeded in 12-well plate overnight. Then the cells were treated with 100 ul of DOTAP 10 (10 mol % DOTAP) LNPs with different weight ratios among three components (together with 500 L of fresh medium), cells were added with 1 mL of fresh medium after treated for 2 days and cells were collected for PCR and DNA sequencing after treated for 3 days. TIDER analysis was used based on Sanger DNA sequencing data. Additionally, the weight ratio of the individually components in the LNP were analyzed FIGS. 3A and 3B show charts of the indel % and the Knockin % of the for varying ration of the Cas9 mRNA, sgRNA, and donor nucleic acid (HDR).

Example 4: Delivery to Basal Lung Cells of Mice

[0762] B6.Cg-Gt(ROSA)26Sortm9(CAG-tdTomato)Hze/J mice (also known as Ai9 or Ai9(RCL-tdT) mice) were obtained from The Jackson Laboratory (007909) and bred to maintain homozygous expression of the Cre reporter allele that has a loxP-flanked STOP cassette preventing transcription of a CAG promoter-driven red fluorescent tdTomato protein. Gene editing deletes the stop and turns on red fluorescent tdTomato protein expression. Lipid nanoparticles comprising 50% DOTAP (DOTAP 50) LNPs, for example, 5A2-SC8:DOPE: Cholesterol:PEG2000-DMG:DOTAP=18:10:20:2:50 (molar ratio), and a Cre mRNA were delivered to mice using intravenous delivery. The lungs of the mice were isolated and digested. The cells were labeled with Ghost Red 780 to distinguish live and dead cells and anti-p75 NGF receptor antibody to define basal cells and then analyzed using FACS. FIG. 4B shows quantification result of tdTOM+ cells of whole basal cell population in mouse lungs (n=4) (DOTAP 50 LNPs, 0.5 mg/kg Cre mRNA, 2 days). FACS gating for analysis of tdTOM+ expression in lung basal cells included Ghost Red 780 was used to distinguish live and dead cells and anti-p75 NGF receptor antibody to define basal cells. PBS group was used as negative control. Analysis was performed 2 days after IV injection. Total lipid:Cre mRNA=40:1 (mass ratio); Dose: 0.5 mg/kg of Cre mRNA; Injection route: Intravenous (IV). Gene editing deleted the stop and turns on red fluorescent tdTomato protein expression, as indicated in FIG. 4A. In related experiments, LNP comprising Cas9 mRNA and a gRNA were administered to undifferentiated HBE cells. DNA was isolated and sequenced. FIG. 4B illustrates that the delivery technology described herein effectuated at least (about) 15% of all basal cells in the tested subject (mice).

[0763] FIG. 4C shows the generation of indels from the Cas9 and gRNA in human epithelial cells frown at an air-liquid interface. LNPs comprising Cas9 mRNA, a gRNA and a donor nucleic acid were administered to undifferentiated HBE cells to enable homology-directed repair. DNA from the cells were isolated and sequenced. FIG. 4C illustrates gene editing effective in at least (about) 70% of the tested undifferentiated CF hBEs achieved by the technology described herein.

[0764] FIG. 4D shows the % of gene repair in the cells. Particularly, the technology described herein achieved at least (about) 8% gene correction of F508del in undifferentiated CF hBEs.

Example 5: Treatment of a Subject with CFTR Mutations

[0765] A subject having or suspected of having a CFTR-associated condition is given a treatment by administering a composition of LNP, Cas9 mRNA, a gRNA, and a donor nucleic acid. The subject is monitored at regular intervals for expression of CFTR in the lungs. A sample of lung tissue from the subject is taken comprising lung cells. The cells are harvested and prepared for DNA sequencing. The cells are sequence and the CFTR allele is analyzed for any mutations.

[0766] Alternately or additionally, a subject having or suspected of having a CFTR-associated condition may have some lung cells extracted. The bronchial epithelial cells are subjected to a treatment by administering a composition of LNP, Cas9 mRNA, a gRNA, and a donor nucleic acid. The cells are then transplated back into the subject lungs and allowed ot propogate. The subject is monitored at regular intervals for expression of CFTR in the lungs.

[0767] A sample of lung tissue from the subject is taken comprising lung cells. The cells are harvested and prepared for DNA sequencing. The cells are sequence and the CFTR allele is analyzed for any mutations.

Example 6: TIDER Analysis

[0768] HBE cells (e.g., passage one (P1)) were seeded in 6-well plate (150 k/well) and cultured for 4 days. The cells were then treated with 100 L of Cas9 mRNA:sgRNA:HDR (0.5:1:6 wt/wt/wt), assembled with lipid composition(s) described herein (e.g., 5A2-SC8 10% DOTAP), in 2 mL fresh medium. The HDR template as set forth in Table B (NTS60) was used. Fresh medium was changed at day 2 after treatment; and the treated cells were subsequently collected for sequencing at day 3. Part of the treatment comprises adding an HDR enhancer (2 L per well) that was expected to increase usage of HDR versus NHEJ for repair of double strand breaks (DSBs). Unexpectedly, the data indicate no significant enhancement with the usage of the enhancer.

[0769] While preferred embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described herein, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that such embodiments are provided by way of example only. It is not intended that the invention be limited by the specific examples provided within the specification. While the invention has been described with reference to the aforementioned specification, the descriptions and illustrations of the embodiments herein are not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Numerous variations, changes, and substitutions will now occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the invention. Furthermore, it shall be understood that all aspects of the invention are not limited to the specific depictions, configurations or relative proportions set forth herein which depend upon a variety of conditions and variables. It should be understood that various alternatives to the embodiments of the invention described herein may be employed in practicing the invention. It is therefore contemplated that the invention shall also cover any such alternatives, modifications, variations or equivalents. It is intended that the following claims define the scope of the invention and that methods and structures within the scope of these claims and their equivalents be covered thereby.