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Hasegawa J, Nagata T, Ihara K, Tanihata J, Ebihara S, Yoshida-Tanaka K, Yanagidaira M, Ohara M, Sasaki A, Nakayama M, Yamamoto S, Ishii T, Iwata-Hara R, Naito M, Miyata K, Sakaue F, Yokota T. Heteroduplex oligonucleotide technology boosts oligonucleotide splice switching activity of morpholino oligomers in a Duchenne muscular dystrophy mouse model. Nat Commun 2024; 15:7530. [PMID: 39327422 PMCID: PMC11427662 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-48204-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 09/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The approval of splice-switching oligonucleotides with phosphorodiamidate morpholino oligomers (PMOs) for treating Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) has advanced the field of oligonucleotide therapy. Despite this progress, PMOs encounter challenges such as poor tissue uptake, particularly in the heart, diaphragm, and central nervous system (CNS), thereby affecting patient's prognosis and quality of life. To address these limitations, we have developed a PMOs-based heteroduplex oligonucleotide (HDO) technology. This innovation involves a lipid-ligand-conjugated complementary strand hybridized with PMOs, significantly enhancing delivery to key tissues in mdx mice, normalizing motor functions, muscle pathology, and serum creatine kinase by restoring internal deleted dystrophin expression. Additionally, PMOs-based HDOs normalized cardiac and CNS abnormalities without adverse effects. Our technology increases serum albumin binding to PMOs and improves blood retention and cellular uptake. Here we show that PMOs-based HDOs address the limitations in oligonucleotide therapy for DMD and offer a promising approach for diseases amenable to exon-skipping therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juri Hasegawa
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Science, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8519, Tokyo, Japan
- Center for Brain Integration Research, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8519, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Nagata
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Science, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8519, Tokyo, Japan.
- Center for Brain Integration Research, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8519, Tokyo, Japan.
- NucleoTIDE and PepTIDE Drug Discovery Center, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8519, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Kensuke Ihara
- Department of Bio-informational Pharmacology, Medical Research Institute, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8519, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8519, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Jun Tanihata
- Department of Cell Physiology, The Jikei University School of Medicine, 3-25-8, Nishi-Shimbashi, 105-8461, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Satoe Ebihara
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Science, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8519, Tokyo, Japan
- Center for Brain Integration Research, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8519, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kie Yoshida-Tanaka
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Science, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8519, Tokyo, Japan
- Center for Brain Integration Research, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8519, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mitsugu Yanagidaira
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Science, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8519, Tokyo, Japan
- Center for Brain Integration Research, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8519, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masahiro Ohara
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Science, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8519, Tokyo, Japan
- Center for Brain Integration Research, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8519, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Asuka Sasaki
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Science, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8519, Tokyo, Japan
- Center for Brain Integration Research, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8519, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Miyu Nakayama
- COE for Drug Metabolism, Pharmacokinetics and Modeling, Preclinical and Translational Sciences, Research, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, 2-26-1, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, 251-8555, Japan
| | - Syunsuke Yamamoto
- COE for Drug Metabolism, Pharmacokinetics and Modeling, Preclinical and Translational Sciences, Research, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, 2-26-1, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, 251-8555, Japan
| | - Takashi Ishii
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Science, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8519, Tokyo, Japan
- Center for Brain Integration Research, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8519, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Rintaro Iwata-Hara
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Science, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8519, Tokyo, Japan
- Center for Brain Integration Research, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8519, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mitsuru Naito
- Department of Materials Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, 113-8656, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kanjiro Miyata
- Department of Materials Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, 113-8656, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Fumika Sakaue
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Science, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8519, Tokyo, Japan
- Center for Brain Integration Research, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8519, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takanori Yokota
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Science, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8519, Tokyo, Japan.
- Center for Brain Integration Research, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8519, Tokyo, Japan.
- NucleoTIDE and PepTIDE Drug Discovery Center, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8519, Tokyo, Japan.
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2
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Lemoine J, Dubois A, Dorval A, Jaber A, Warthi G, Mamchaoui K, Wang T, Corre G, Bovolenta M, Richard I. Correction of exon 2, exon 2-9 and exons 8-9 duplications in DMD patient myogenic cells by a single CRISPR/Cas9 system. Sci Rep 2024; 14:21238. [PMID: 39261505 PMCID: PMC11390959 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-70075-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 08/12/2024] [Indexed: 09/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Duchenne Muscular dystrophy (DMD), a yet-incurable X-linked recessive disorder that results in muscle wasting and loss of ambulation is due to mutations in the dystrophin gene. Exonic duplications of dystrophin gene are a common type of mutations found in DMD patients. In this study, we utilized a single guide RNA CRISPR strategy targeting intronic regions to delete the extra duplicated regions in patient myogenic cells carrying duplication of exon 2, exons 2-9, and exons 8-9 in the DMD gene. Immunostaining on CRISPR-corrected derived myotubes demonstrated the rescue of dystrophin protein. Subsequent RNA sequencing of the DMD cells indicated rescue of genes of dystrophin related pathways. Examination of predicted close-match off-targets evidenced no aberrant gene editing at these loci. Here, we further demonstrate the efficiency of a single guide CRISPR strategy capable of deleting multi-exon duplications in the DMD gene without significant off target effect. Our study contributes valuable insights into the safety and efficacy of using single guide CRISPR strategy as a potential therapeutic approach for DMD patients with duplications of variable size.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliette Lemoine
- Genethon, 1, bis rue de l'internationale, 91000, Evry, France
- Université Paris-Saclay, Univ Evry, Inserm, Généthon, Integrare Research Unit UMR_S951, 91000, Evry-Courcouronnes, France
| | - Auriane Dubois
- Genethon, 1, bis rue de l'internationale, 91000, Evry, France
- Université Paris-Saclay, Univ Evry, Inserm, Généthon, Integrare Research Unit UMR_S951, 91000, Evry-Courcouronnes, France
| | - Alan Dorval
- Genethon, 1, bis rue de l'internationale, 91000, Evry, France
- Université Paris-Saclay, Univ Evry, Inserm, Généthon, Integrare Research Unit UMR_S951, 91000, Evry-Courcouronnes, France
- ADLIN Science, Pépinière « Genopole Entreprises », 91058, Evry, France
| | - Abbass Jaber
- Genethon, 1, bis rue de l'internationale, 91000, Evry, France
- Université Paris-Saclay, Univ Evry, Inserm, Généthon, Integrare Research Unit UMR_S951, 91000, Evry-Courcouronnes, France
| | - Ganesh Warthi
- Genethon, 1, bis rue de l'internationale, 91000, Evry, France
- Université Paris-Saclay, Univ Evry, Inserm, Généthon, Integrare Research Unit UMR_S951, 91000, Evry-Courcouronnes, France
| | - Kamel Mamchaoui
- Sorbonne Université, Inserm, Institut de Myologie, Centre de Recherche en Myologie, 75013, Paris, France
| | - Tao Wang
- Genethon, 1, bis rue de l'internationale, 91000, Evry, France
- Université Paris-Saclay, Univ Evry, Inserm, Généthon, Integrare Research Unit UMR_S951, 91000, Evry-Courcouronnes, France
| | - Guillaume Corre
- Genethon, 1, bis rue de l'internationale, 91000, Evry, France
- Université Paris-Saclay, Univ Evry, Inserm, Généthon, Integrare Research Unit UMR_S951, 91000, Evry-Courcouronnes, France
| | - Matteo Bovolenta
- Genethon, 1, bis rue de l'internationale, 91000, Evry, France
- Université Paris-Saclay, Univ Evry, Inserm, Généthon, Integrare Research Unit UMR_S951, 91000, Evry-Courcouronnes, France
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Isabelle Richard
- Genethon, 1, bis rue de l'internationale, 91000, Evry, France.
- Université Paris-Saclay, Univ Evry, Inserm, Généthon, Integrare Research Unit UMR_S951, 91000, Evry-Courcouronnes, France.
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3
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Pironon N, Bourrat E, Prost C, Chen M, Woodley DT, Titeux M, Hovnanian A. Splice modulation strategy applied to deep intronic variants in COL7A1 causing recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2401781121. [PMID: 39159368 PMCID: PMC11363305 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2401781121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 08/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB) is a rare and most often severe genetic disease characterized by recurrent blistering and erosions of the skin and mucous membranes after minor trauma, leading to major local and systemic complications. The disease is caused by loss-of-function variants in COL7A1 encoding type VII collagen (C7), the main component of anchoring fibrils, which form attachment structures stabilizing the cutaneous basement membrane zone. Alterations in C7 protein structure and/or expression lead to abnormal, rare or absent anchoring fibrils resulting in loss of dermal-epidermal adherence and skin blistering. To date, more than 1,200 distinct COL7A1 deleterious variants have been reported and 19% are splice variants. Here, we describe two RDEB patients for whom we identified two pathogenic deep intronic pathogenic variants in COL7A1. One of these variants (c.7795-97C > G) promotes the inclusion of a pseudoexon between exons 104 and 105 in the COL7A1 transcript, while the other causes partial or complete retention of intron 51. We used antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) mediated exon skipping to correct these aberrant splicing events in vitro. This led to increased normal mRNA splicing above 94% and restoration of C7 protein expression at a level (up to 56%) that should be sufficient to reverse the phenotype. This first report of exon skipping applied to counteract deep intronic variants in COL7A1 represents a promising therapeutic strategy for personalized medicine directed at patients with intronic variants at a distance of consensus splice sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathalie Pironon
- Université Paris Cité, Inserm, UMR 1163, Institut Imagine, Laboratory of Genetic Skin Diseases, ParisF-75015, France
| | - Emmanuelle Bourrat
- Department of Dermatology, Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Hôpital Saint Louis, Paris, France
- Centre de référence des Maladies Génétiques à Expression Cutanée (MAGEC Nord Site Saint Louis), Hôpital Saint LouisF-75010, Paris, France
| | - Catherine Prost
- Hôpital Avicenne, Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Paris, BobignyF-93000, France
| | - Mei Chen
- Department of Dermatology, The Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, LA
| | - David T. Woodley
- Department of Dermatology, The Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, LA
| | - Matthias Titeux
- Université Paris Cité, Inserm, UMR 1163, Institut Imagine, Laboratory of Genetic Skin Diseases, ParisF-75015, France
| | - Alain Hovnanian
- Université Paris Cité, Inserm, UMR 1163, Institut Imagine, Laboratory of Genetic Skin Diseases, ParisF-75015, France
- Department of Genomic Medicine of Rare Diseases, Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Hôpital Necker-Enfants Malades, F-75015Paris, France
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4
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Imai S, Watanabe N, Tone Y, Mitamura R, Mori J, Kameyama T, Yamada T, Kusano K. The Usefulness of Determining Plasma and Tissue Concentrations of Phosphorodiamidate Morpholino Oligonucleotides to Estimate Their Efficacy in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Patients. Drug Metab Dispos 2024; 52:1029-1036. [PMID: 38991781 DOI: 10.1124/dmd.124.001806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2024] [Revised: 07/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Currently, four kinds of phosphorodiamidate morpholino oligomers (PMOs), such as viltolarsen, have been approved for the treatment of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD); however, it is unclear whether human efficacy can be estimated using plasma concentrations. This study summarizes the tissue distribution of viltolarsen in mice and cynomolgus monkeys and evaluates the relationship between exposure and efficacy based on exon skipping. In the tissue distribution studies, all muscles in DMD-model mice showed higher concentrations of viltolarsen than those in wild-type mice and cynomolgus monkeys, and the concentrations in skeletal muscle were correlated with the exon-skipping efficiency in mice and cynomolgus monkeys. In addition, a highly sensitive bioanalytical method using liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry shows promise for determining plasma concentrations up to a later time point, and the tissue (muscle)/plasma concentration ratio (Kp) in DMD-model mice was shown to be useful for predicting changes in pharmacodynamic (PD) markers in humans. Our results suggest that pharmacokinetic (PK)/PD analysis can be conducted by using the human PK profile or Kp values and skipping efficiency in DMD-model mice. This information will be useful for the efficient and effective development of PMOs as therapeutic agents. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: We evaluated the relationship between the plasma or tissue concentrations and the efficiency of exon skipping for viltolarsen as an example phosphorodiamidate morpholino oligomers in the skeletal and cardiac muscle of mice and cynomolgus monkeys for pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) analysis. The results suggest that PK/PD analysis can be conducted by using the human PK profile or tissue (muscle)/plasma concentration ratios and skipping efficiency in DMD-model mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shunji Imai
- Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics Research Department, Discovery Research Laboratories, Kyoto (S.I., R.M., J.M., T.K., T.Y., K.K.) and Discovery Research Laboratory in Tsukuba, Ibaraki (N.W., Y.T.) , Nippon Shinyaku Co., Ltd., Japan
| | - Naoki Watanabe
- Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics Research Department, Discovery Research Laboratories, Kyoto (S.I., R.M., J.M., T.K., T.Y., K.K.) and Discovery Research Laboratory in Tsukuba, Ibaraki (N.W., Y.T.) , Nippon Shinyaku Co., Ltd., Japan
| | - Yuichiro Tone
- Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics Research Department, Discovery Research Laboratories, Kyoto (S.I., R.M., J.M., T.K., T.Y., K.K.) and Discovery Research Laboratory in Tsukuba, Ibaraki (N.W., Y.T.) , Nippon Shinyaku Co., Ltd., Japan
| | - Rei Mitamura
- Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics Research Department, Discovery Research Laboratories, Kyoto (S.I., R.M., J.M., T.K., T.Y., K.K.) and Discovery Research Laboratory in Tsukuba, Ibaraki (N.W., Y.T.) , Nippon Shinyaku Co., Ltd., Japan
| | - Jumpei Mori
- Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics Research Department, Discovery Research Laboratories, Kyoto (S.I., R.M., J.M., T.K., T.Y., K.K.) and Discovery Research Laboratory in Tsukuba, Ibaraki (N.W., Y.T.) , Nippon Shinyaku Co., Ltd., Japan
| | - Tsubasa Kameyama
- Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics Research Department, Discovery Research Laboratories, Kyoto (S.I., R.M., J.M., T.K., T.Y., K.K.) and Discovery Research Laboratory in Tsukuba, Ibaraki (N.W., Y.T.) , Nippon Shinyaku Co., Ltd., Japan
| | - Tetsuhiro Yamada
- Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics Research Department, Discovery Research Laboratories, Kyoto (S.I., R.M., J.M., T.K., T.Y., K.K.) and Discovery Research Laboratory in Tsukuba, Ibaraki (N.W., Y.T.) , Nippon Shinyaku Co., Ltd., Japan
| | - Kazutomi Kusano
- Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics Research Department, Discovery Research Laboratories, Kyoto (S.I., R.M., J.M., T.K., T.Y., K.K.) and Discovery Research Laboratory in Tsukuba, Ibaraki (N.W., Y.T.) , Nippon Shinyaku Co., Ltd., Japan
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5
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Sang A, Zhuo S, Bochanis A, Manautou JE, Bahal R, Zhong XB, Rasmussen TP. Mechanisms of Action of the US Food and Drug Administration-Approved Antisense Oligonucleotide Drugs. BioDrugs 2024; 38:511-526. [PMID: 38914784 DOI: 10.1007/s40259-024-00665-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
Antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) are single stranded nucleic acids that target RNA. The US Food and Drug Administration has approved ASOs for several diseases. ASOs utilize three principal modes of action (MOA). The first MOA is initiated by base-pairing between the ASO and its target mRNA, followed by RNase H-dependent mRNA degradation. The second MOA is triggered by ASOs that occlude splice acceptor sites in pre-mRNAs leading to skipping of a mutation-bearing exon. The third MOA involves ASOs that sterically hinder mRNA function, often inhibiting translation. ASOs contain a variety of modifications to the sugar-phosphate backbone and bases that stabilize the ASO or render them resistant to RNase activity. RNase H-dependent ASOs include inotersen and eplontersen (for hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis), fomiversen (for opportunistic cytomegalovirus infection), mipomersen (for familial hypercholesterolemia), and tofersen [for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)]. Splice modulating ASOs include nursinersen (for spinal muscular atrophy) and eteplirsen, golodirsen, viltolarsen, and casimersen (all for the treatment of Duchenne muscular dystrophy). In addition, a designer ASO, milasen, was used to treat a single individual afflicted with Batten disease. Since ASO design relies principally upon knowledge of mRNA sequence, the bench to bedside pipeline for ASOs is expedient compared with protein-directed drugs. [Graphical abstract available.].
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Sang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Selena Zhuo
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Adara Bochanis
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - José E Manautou
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Raman Bahal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Xiao-Bo Zhong
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Theodore P Rasmussen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA.
- Institute for Systems Genomics, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA.
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA.
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6
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Sabrina Haque U, Kohut M, Yokota T. Comprehensive review of adverse reactions and toxicology in ASO-based therapies for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy: From FDA-approved drugs to peptide-conjugated ASO. Curr Res Toxicol 2024; 7:100182. [PMID: 38983605 PMCID: PMC11231654 DOI: 10.1016/j.crtox.2024.100182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 06/16/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) is a devastating X-linked genetic disorder characterized by progressive muscle degeneration due to mutations in the dystrophin gene. This results in the absence or dysfunction of the dystrophin protein, leading to muscle weakness, loss of ambulation, respiratory issues, and cardiac complications, often leading to premature death. Recently, antisense oligonucleotide (ASO)-mediated exon skipping has emerged as a promising therapeutic strategy for DMD. Notably, the FDA has conditionally approved four ASO therapies for DMD, with numerous others in various stages of clinical development, indicating the growing interest and potential in this field. To enhance ASO-based therapies, researchers have explored the novel concept of conjugating peptides to the phosphorodiamidate morpholino backbone (PMO) of ASOs, leading to the development of peptide-conjugated PMOs (PPMOs). These PPMOs have demonstrated significantly improved pharmacokinetic profiles, potentially augmenting their therapeutic effectiveness. Despite the optimism surrounding ASOs and PPMOs, concerns persist regarding their efficacy and safety. To comprehensively evaluate these therapies, it is imperative to expand patient populations in clinical trials and conduct thorough investigations into the associated risks. This article provides a comprehensive review and discussion of the available data pertaining to adverse reactions and toxicology associated with FDA-approved ASO drugs for DMD. Furthermore, it offers insights into the emerging category of peptide-conjugated ASO drugs those are clinical and preclinical trials, shedding light on their potential benefits and challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Umme Sabrina Haque
- Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2H7, Canada
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2H7, Canada
| | - Melissa Kohut
- Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2H7, Canada
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2H7, Canada
| | - Toshifumi Yokota
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2H7, Canada
- The Friends of Garrett Cumming Research & Muscular Dystrophy Canada HM Toupin Neurological Science Research, Edmonton, AB T6G 2H7, Canada
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7
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Miyazaki Y, Hara T, Hagiwara K, Nakamura T, Kamimura A, Takeshita E, Komaki H, Mizuno K, Tsuji T, Abo M. Validity of the Functional Classification of the Upper Extremities for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Prog Rehabil Med 2024; 9:20240016. [PMID: 38665904 PMCID: PMC11040242 DOI: 10.2490/prm.20240016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Objectives Some upper-limb function assessments can evaluate treatments in the non-ambulatory stage of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). The Functional Classification of the Upper Extremities (FCUE) was developed for DMD in Japan. The FCUE is easier to use than the Performance of Upper Limb (PUL) and is more detailed than the Brooke Upper Extremity Scale. This study aimed to determine the concurrent validity of FCUE with other methods of assessment for DMD. Methods This retrospective study reviewed the medical records of 39 boys with DMD from the National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry to evaluate the concurrent validity of the FCUE and PUL using non-parametric Spearman rank correlation (ρ). We also determined the concurrent validity of the Brooke Upper Extremity Scale and PUL for comparison. Results The ρ value between the FCUE and PUL was -0.914 (P<0.001). The FCUE showed robust concurrent validity with the PUL. That correlation between the FCUE and Brooke Upper Extremity Scale gave a ρ value of -0.854 (P<0.001). Conclusions The FCUE had a higher concurrent validity with the PUL than with the Brooke Upper Extremity Scale. The FCUE is considered a valid assessment tool of upper-limb function in boys with DMD. Selecting the best assessment method depends on the severity of the patient's condition and a balance between assessment accuracy and evaluation time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuta Miyazaki
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, National Center
Hospital, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Keio University
School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takatoshi Hara
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, National Center
Hospital, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Jikei University
School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kazuki Hagiwara
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, National Center
Hospital, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Keio University
School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takuya Nakamura
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, National Center
Hospital, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Keio University
School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Akiko Kamimura
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, National Center
Hospital, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Eri Takeshita
- Department of Child Neurology, National Center Hospital,
National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hirofumi Komaki
- Department of Child Neurology, National Center Hospital,
National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, Japan
- Translational Medical Center, National Center of Neurology
and Psychiatry, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Katsuhiro Mizuno
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Tokai University
School of Medicine, Hiratsuka, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Tsuji
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Keio University
School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masahiro Abo
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Jikei University
School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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8
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Li Y, Xu Z, Li Y, Jiang T, Meng F, Fu J, Huang L, Wang F, Wang X, Wang F. Preclinical and phase I studies of an antisense oligonucleotide drug targeting IGF-1R in liver cancer. Future Oncol 2024:1-14. [PMID: 38573183 DOI: 10.2217/fon-2023-0872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Aim: To evaluate a novel antisense oligonucleotide drug targeting human IGF-1R in preclinical and phase I studies of liver cancer. Materials & methods: The tolerability and safety of an investigational new drug were evaluated in a dose-escalation trial involving 17 patients with advanced liver cancer after preclinical assessment of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. Results: The drug exposure levels in the phase I trial were determined by the in vivo efficacy with pharmacokinetics evaluation in rats and rhesus monkeys. This clinical study showed that the maximum tolerated dose was 3.96 mg/kg, and the dose-limiting toxicity dose was 4.4 mg/kg. Conclusion: The drug was safe and tolerable in patients with advanced liver cancer.Clinical Trial Registration: ChiCTR2100044235 (www.chictr.org.cn).
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Affiliation(s)
- Yonggang Li
- Senior Department of Infectious Diseases, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Zhe Xu
- Senior Department of Infectious Diseases, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Yuanyuan Li
- Senior Department of Infectious Diseases, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Tianjun Jiang
- Senior Department of Infectious Diseases, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Fanping Meng
- Senior Department of Infectious Diseases, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Junliang Fu
- Senior Department of Infectious Diseases, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Lei Huang
- Senior Department of Infectious Diseases, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Fengchao Wang
- Youcare Pharmaceutical Group Co Ltd, Beijing, 100176, China
| | - Xia Wang
- Youcare Pharmaceutical Group Co Ltd, Beijing, 100176, China
| | - Fusheng Wang
- Senior Department of Infectious Diseases, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
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9
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Vincik LY, Dautel AD, Staples AA, Lauck LV, Armstrong CJ, Howard JT, McGregor D, Ahmadzadeh S, Shekoohi S, Kaye AD. Evolving Role of Viltolarsen for Treatment of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Adv Ther 2024; 41:1338-1350. [PMID: 38376743 DOI: 10.1007/s12325-024-02801-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024]
Abstract
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is one of the most prevalent X-linked inherited neuromuscular disorders, with an estimated incidence between 1 in 3500 and 5000 live male births. The median life expectancy at birth is around 30 years due to a rapid and severe disease progression. Currently, there is no cure for DMD, and the standard of care is mainly palliative therapy and glucocorticoids to mitigate symptoms and improve quality of life. Recent advances in phosphorodiamidate morpholino antisense oligonucleotide (PMO) technology has proven optimistic in providing a disease-modifying therapy rather than a palliative treatment option through correcting the primary genetic defect of DMD by exon skipping. However, as a result of the high variance in mutations of the dystrophin gene causing DMD, it has been challenging to tailor an effective therapy in most patients. Viltolarsen is effective in 8% of patients and accurately skips exon 53, reestablishing the reading frame and producing a functional form of dystrophin and milder disease phenotype. Results of recently concluded preclinical and clinical trials show significantly increased dystrophin protein expression, no severe adverse effects, and stabilization of motor function. In summary, viltolarsen has provided hope for those working toward giving patients a safe and viable treatment option for managing DMD. This review summarizes an overview of the presentation, pathophysiology, genetics, and current treatment guidelines of DMD, pharmacological profile of viltolarsen, and a summary of the safety and efficacy with additional insights using recent clinical trial data.
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Affiliation(s)
- LeighAnn Y Vincik
- School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center at Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, 71103, USA
| | - Alexandra D Dautel
- School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center at Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, 71103, USA
| | - Abigail A Staples
- School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center at Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, 71103, USA
| | - Lillian V Lauck
- School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center at Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, 71103, USA
| | - Catherine J Armstrong
- Department of Anesthesiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, 71103, USA
| | - Jeffery T Howard
- Department of Anesthesiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, 71103, USA
| | - David McGregor
- Department of Anesthesiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, 71103, USA
| | - Shahab Ahmadzadeh
- Department of Anesthesiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, 71103, USA
| | - Sahar Shekoohi
- Department of Anesthesiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, 71103, USA.
| | - Alan D Kaye
- Departments of Anesthesiology and Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Neurosciences, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, 71103, USA
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10
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Elasbali AM, Al-Soud WA, Anwar S, Alhassan HH, Adnan M, Hassan MI. A review on mechanistic insights into structure and function of dystrophin protein in pathophysiology and therapeutic targeting of Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 264:130544. [PMID: 38428778 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.130544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) is an X-linked recessive genetic disorder characterized by progressive and severe muscle weakening and degeneration. Among the various forms of muscular dystrophy, it stands out as one of the most common and impactful, predominantly affecting boys. The condition arises due to mutations in the dystrophin gene, a key player in maintaining the structure and function of muscle fibers. The manuscript explores the structural features of dystrophin protein and their pivotal roles in DMD. We present an in-depth analysis of promising therapeutic approaches targeting dystrophin and their implications for the therapeutic management of DMD. Several therapies aiming to restore dystrophin protein or address secondary pathology have obtained regulatory approval, and many others are ongoing clinical development. Notably, recent advancements in genetic approaches have demonstrated the potential to restore partially functional dystrophin forms. The review also provides a comprehensive overview of the status of clinical trials for major therapeutic genetic approaches for DMD. In addition, we have summarized the ongoing therapeutic approaches and advanced mechanisms of action for dystrophin restoration and the challenges associated with DMD therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdelbaset Mohamed Elasbali
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Science, College of Applied Medical Sciences-Qurayyat, Jouf University, Saudi Arabia
| | - Waleed Abu Al-Soud
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Science, College of Applied Sciences-Sakaka, Jouf University, Sakaka, Saudi Arabia; Molekylärbiologi, Klinisk Mikrobiologi och vårdhygien, Region Skåne, Sölvegatan 23B, 221 85 Lund, Sweden
| | - Saleha Anwar
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi 110025, India
| | - Hassan H Alhassan
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Science, College of Applied Sciences-Sakaka, Jouf University, Sakaka, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohd Adnan
- Department of Biology, College of Science, University of Ha'il, Ha'il, Saudi Arabia
| | - Md Imtaiyaz Hassan
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi 110025, India.
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11
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Shi Y, Zhen X, Zhang Y, Li Y, Koo S, Saiding Q, Kong N, Liu G, Chen W, Tao W. Chemically Modified Platforms for Better RNA Therapeutics. Chem Rev 2024; 124:929-1033. [PMID: 38284616 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.3c00611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
RNA-based therapies have catalyzed a revolutionary transformation in the biomedical landscape, offering unprecedented potential in disease prevention and treatment. However, despite their remarkable achievements, these therapies encounter substantial challenges including low stability, susceptibility to degradation by nucleases, and a prominent negative charge, thereby hindering further development. Chemically modified platforms have emerged as a strategic innovation, focusing on precise alterations either on the RNA moieties or their associated delivery vectors. This comprehensive review delves into these platforms, underscoring their significance in augmenting the performance and translational prospects of RNA-based therapeutics. It encompasses an in-depth analysis of various chemically modified delivery platforms that have been instrumental in propelling RNA therapeutics toward clinical utility. Moreover, the review scrutinizes the rationale behind diverse chemical modification techniques aiming at optimizing the therapeutic efficacy of RNA molecules, thereby facilitating robust disease management. Recent empirical studies corroborating the efficacy enhancement of RNA therapeutics through chemical modifications are highlighted. Conclusively, we offer profound insights into the transformative impact of chemical modifications on RNA drugs and delineates prospective trajectories for their future development and clinical integration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yesi Shi
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- State Key Laboratory of Vaccines for Infectious Diseases, Xiang An Biomedicine Laboratory, National Innovation Platform for Industry-Education Integration in Vaccine Research, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, Center for Molecular Imaging and Translational Medicine, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Xueyan Zhen
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Yiming Zhang
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Yongjiang Li
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Seyoung Koo
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Qimanguli Saiding
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Na Kong
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Gang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Vaccines for Infectious Diseases, Xiang An Biomedicine Laboratory, National Innovation Platform for Industry-Education Integration in Vaccine Research, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, Center for Molecular Imaging and Translational Medicine, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Wei Chen
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- Genomics Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei 11529, Taiwan
| | - Wei Tao
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
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12
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Nicolau S, Malhotra J, Kaler M, Magistrado-Coxen P, Iammarino MA, Reash NF, Frair EC, Wijeratne S, Kelly BJ, White P, Lowes LP, Waldrop MA, Flanigan KM. Increase in Full-Length Dystrophin by Exon Skipping in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Patients with Single Exon Duplications: An Open-label Study. J Neuromuscul Dis 2024; 11:679-685. [PMID: 38461513 PMCID: PMC11091625 DOI: 10.3233/jnd-230107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Single exon duplications account for disease in a minority of Duchenne muscular dystrophy patients. Exon skipping in these patients has the potential to be highly therapeutic through restoration of full-length dystrophin expression. We conducted a 48-week open label study of casimersen and golodirsen in 3 subjects with an exon 45 or 53 duplication. Two subjects (aged 18 and 23 years) were non-ambulatory at baseline. Upper limb, pulmonary, and cardiac function appeared stable in the 2 subjects in whom they could be evaluated. Dystrophin expression increased from 0.94 % ±0.59% (mean±SD) of normal to 5.1% ±2.9% by western blot. Percent dystrophin positive fibers also rose from 14% ±17% at baseline to 50% ±42% . Our results provide initial evidence that the use of exon-skipping drugs may increase dystrophin levels in patients with single-exon duplications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Nicolau
- Center for Gene Therapy, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | | | - Maryann Kaler
- Center for Gene Therapy, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | | | - Megan A. Iammarino
- Center for Gene Therapy, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Natalie F. Reash
- Center for Gene Therapy, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Emma C. Frair
- Center for Gene Therapy, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Saranga Wijeratne
- Institute for Genomic Medicine, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Benjamin J. Kelly
- Institute for Genomic Medicine, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Peter White
- Institute for Genomic Medicine, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Linda P. Lowes
- Center for Gene Therapy, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Megan A. Waldrop
- Center for Gene Therapy, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
- >Department of Neurology>, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Kevin M. Flanigan
- Center for Gene Therapy, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
- >Department of Neurology>, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
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13
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Le BT, Chen S, Veedu RN. Evaluation of Chemically Modified Nucleic Acid Analogues for Splice Switching Application. ACS OMEGA 2023; 8:48650-48661. [PMID: 38162739 PMCID: PMC10753547 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c07618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
In recent years, several splice switching antisense oligonucleotide (ASO)-based therapeutics have gained significant interest, and several candidates received approval for clinical use for treating rare diseases, in particular, Duchenne muscular dystrophy and spinal muscular atrophy. These ASOs are fully modified; in other words, they are composed of chemically modified nucleic acid analogues instead of natural RNA oligomers. This has significantly improved drug-like properties of these ASOs in terms of efficacy, stability, pharmacokinetics, and safety. Although chemical modifications of oligonucleotides have been discussed previously for numerous applications including nucleic acid aptamers, small interfering RNA, DNAzyme, and ASO, to the best of our knowledge, none of them have solely focused on the analogues that have been utilized for splice switching applications. To this end, we present here a comprehensive review of different modified nucleic acid analogues that have been explored for developing splice switching ASOs. In addition to the antisense chemistry, we also endeavor to provide a brief historical overview of the approved spice switching ASO drugs, including a list of drugs that have entered human clinical trials. We hope this work will inspire further investigations into expanding the potential of novel nucleic acid analogues for constructing splice switching ASOs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bao T. Le
- Centre
for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Health Futures
Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia 6150, Australia
- Precision
Nucleic Acid Therapeutics, Perron Institute
for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, Western Australia 6009, Australia
- ProGenis
Pharmaceuticals Pty Ltd., Bentley, Western Australia 6102, Australia
| | - Suxiang Chen
- Centre
for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Health Futures
Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia 6150, Australia
- Precision
Nucleic Acid Therapeutics, Perron Institute
for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, Western Australia 6009, Australia
| | - Rakesh N. Veedu
- Centre
for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Health Futures
Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia 6150, Australia
- Precision
Nucleic Acid Therapeutics, Perron Institute
for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, Western Australia 6009, Australia
- ProGenis
Pharmaceuticals Pty Ltd., Bentley, Western Australia 6102, Australia
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14
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Watanabe N, Tone Y, Nagata T, Masuda S, Saito T, Motohashi N, Takagaki K, Aoki Y, Takeda S. Exon 44 skipping in Duchenne muscular dystrophy: NS-089/NCNP-02, a dual-targeting antisense oligonucleotide. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2023; 34:102034. [PMID: 37854955 PMCID: PMC10579524 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2023.102034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
Exon-skipping therapy mediated by antisense oligonucleotides is expected to provide a therapeutic option for Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Antisense oligonucleotides for exon skipping reported so far target a single continuous sequence in or around the target exon. In the present study, we investigated antisense oligonucleotides for exon 44 skipping (applicable to approximately 6% of all Duchenne muscular dystrophy patients) to improve activity by using a novel antisense oligonucleotide design incorporating two connected sequences. Phosphorodiamidate morpholino oligomers targeting two separate sequences in exon 44 were created to target two splicing regulators in exon 44 simultaneously, and their exon 44 skipping was measured. NS-089/NCNP-02 showed the highest skipping activity among the oligomers. NS-089/NCNP-02 also induced exon 44 skipping and dystrophin protein expression in cells from a Duchenne muscular dystrophy patient to whom exon 44 skipping is applicable. We also assessed the in vivo activity of NS-089/NCNP-02 by intravenous administration to cynomolgus monkeys. NS-089/NCNP-02 induced exon 44 skipping in skeletal and cardiac muscle of cynomolgus monkeys. In conclusion, NS-089/NCNP-02, an antisense oligonucleotide with a novel connected-sequence design, showed highly efficient exon skipping both in vitro and in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naoki Watanabe
- Discovery Research Laboratories in Tsukuba, Nippon Shinyaku Co., Ltd, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Yuichiro Tone
- Discovery Research Laboratories in Tsukuba, Nippon Shinyaku Co., Ltd, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Nagata
- Department of Molecular Therapy, National Institute of Neuroscience, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry (NCNP), Kodaira, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Science, Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Satoru Masuda
- Department of Molecular Therapy, National Institute of Neuroscience, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry (NCNP), Kodaira, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takashi Saito
- Department of Molecular Therapy, National Institute of Neuroscience, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry (NCNP), Kodaira, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Norio Motohashi
- Department of Molecular Therapy, National Institute of Neuroscience, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry (NCNP), Kodaira, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kazuchika Takagaki
- Discovery Research Laboratories in Tsukuba, Nippon Shinyaku Co., Ltd, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Yoshitsugu Aoki
- Department of Molecular Therapy, National Institute of Neuroscience, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry (NCNP), Kodaira, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shin’ichi Takeda
- Department of Molecular Therapy, National Institute of Neuroscience, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry (NCNP), Kodaira, Tokyo, Japan
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15
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Niezgoda A, Biegański G, Wachowiak J, Czarnota J, Siemionow K, Heydemann A, Ziemiecka A, Sikorska MH, Bożyk K, Siemionow M. Assessment of Motor Unit Potentials Duration as the Biomarker of DT-DEC01 Cell Therapy Efficacy in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Patients up to 12 Months After Systemic-Intraosseous Administration. Arch Immunol Ther Exp (Warsz) 2023; 71:24. [PMID: 37999748 PMCID: PMC10673998 DOI: 10.1007/s00005-023-00691-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a lethal X-linked disease caused by mutations in the dystrophin gene, leading to muscle degeneration and wasting. Electromyography (EMG) is an objective electrophysiological biomarker of muscle fiber function in muscular dystrophies. A novel, DT-DEC01 therapy, consisting of Dystrophin Expressing Chimeric (DEC) cells created by fusing allogeneic myoblasts from normal donors with autologous myoblasts from DMD-affected patients, was assessed for safety and preliminary efficacy in boys of age 6-15 years old (n = 3). Assessments included EMG testing of selected muscles of upper (deltoideus, biceps brachii) and lower (rectus femoris and gastrocnemius) extremities at the screening visit and at 3, 6, and 12 months following systemic-intraosseous administration of a single low dose of DT-DEC01 therapy (Bioethics Committee approval no. 46/2019). No immunosuppression was administered. Safety of DT-DEC01 was confirmed by the lack of therapy-related Adverse Events or Serious Adverse Events up to 22 months following DT-DEC01 administration. EMG of selected muscles of both, ambulatory and non-ambulatory patients confirmed preliminary efficacy of DT-DEC01 therapy by an increase in motor unit potentials (MUP) duration, amplitudes, and polyphasic MUPs at 12 months. This study confirmed EMG as a reliable and objective biomarker of functional assessment in DMD patients after intraosseous administration of the novel DT-DEC01 therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Niezgoda
- Department of Neurology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Grzegorz Biegański
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Child Neurology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Jacek Wachowiak
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology and Transplantology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | | | - Krzysztof Siemionow
- Dystrogen Therapeutics Corp., Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Orthopaedics, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Ahlke Heydemann
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Center for Cardiovascular Research, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | | | | | - Maria Siemionow
- Dystrogen Therapeutics Corp., Chicago, IL, USA.
- Department of Orthopaedics, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.
- Chair and Department of Traumatology, Orthopedics and Surgery of the Hand, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland.
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16
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Richard I. Basic notions about gene therapy from the nucleic acid perspective and applications in a pediatric disease: Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Arch Pediatr 2023; 30:8S2-8S11. [PMID: 38043979 DOI: 10.1016/s0929-693x(23)00221-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
Gene therapy involves the introduction of genetic material into cells as a therapeutic molecule to cure a disease. Through the transfer of specific nucleic acid to the target tissue, gene expression can be downregulated, augmented, or corrected thanks to the nucleic acid sequence as a support of gene expression. This is achieved through molecular interactions according to the sequence arrangement or the secondary structure of the molecules or through their catalytic properties. Over the past two decades, the rapid advances of knowledge and technologies in gene therapy have led to the development of different strategies and to the extension of its use to numerous indications, including certain cancers. Major success has been achieved in clinical trials and the field of gene therapy is booming. Several gene therapy products are now on the market in Europe, the United States, and China. In this review, we cover the basic principles of gene therapy and the characteristics of the main vectors used to transfer genetic material into the cell. As an example of applications, we address the various strategies applied to a rare pediatric muscle disease: Duchenne muscular dystrophy. © 2023 Published by Elsevier Masson SAS on behalf of French Society of Pediatrics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabelle Richard
- Genethon, 91000, Evry, France; Université Paris-Saclay, Univ. Evry, Inserm, Integrare research unit UMR_S951, 91000, Evry-Courcouronnes, France; Atamyo Therapeutics, 1, bis rue de l'internationale, Evry, France.
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17
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Imai S, Suda Y, Mori J, Sasaki Y, Yamada T, Kusano K. Prediction of Human Pharmacokinetics of Phosphorodiamidate Morpholino Oligonucleotides in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Patients Using Viltolarsen. Drug Metab Dispos 2023; 51:1428-1435. [PMID: 37468285 DOI: 10.1124/dmd.123.001425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Several modified antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) have recently been approved for clinical use. Some are phosphorodiamidate morpholino oligomers (PMOs), which, unlike other nucleic acids, are not negatively charged. Thus, PMOs differ from other ASOs in their pharmacokinetic (PK) properties. Drugs with a PMO backbone have been administered to Duchenne muscular dystrophy pediatric patients; however, appropriate methodologies are not currently available to predict their human PK from nonclinical data. In this study, we used viltolarsen as a representative PMO to investigate the applicability of the allometric scaling approach to human PK prediction. We first summarized the nonclinical and clinical PK data for viltolarsen as showing high total clearance, low serum protein binding, metabolic resistance, and urinary excretion as the unchanged drug in both animals and humans. We then investigate the PK of viltolarsen in mice, rats, cynomolgus monkeys, and dogs and used the results, with body weight, to extrapolate to humans by several methods. The estimate of human total clearance obtained from cynomolgus monkeys was the best, and body weight may be the key factor in accurately predicting human total clearance. In contrast, all of the well-known prediction methods for the volume of distribution at steady state gave underestimates. However, the human PK profiles predicted from the PK parameters in cynomolgus monkeys fit the observed human plasma concentrations well. These results are expected to contribute to the further development of PMOs. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: We investigated how to predict the human PK of phosphorodiamidate morpholino oligomers from nonclinical data. The estimates of human PK parameters and profiles determined from cynomolgus monkeys by an allometric scaling approach were the most suitable, and the cynomolgus monkey body weight may be the key factor in accurately predicting human total clearance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shunji Imai
- Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics Research Department, Discovery Research Laboratories, Nippon Shinyaku Co., Ltd., Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yusuke Suda
- Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics Research Department, Discovery Research Laboratories, Nippon Shinyaku Co., Ltd., Kyoto, Japan
| | - Jumpei Mori
- Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics Research Department, Discovery Research Laboratories, Nippon Shinyaku Co., Ltd., Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Sasaki
- Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics Research Department, Discovery Research Laboratories, Nippon Shinyaku Co., Ltd., Kyoto, Japan
| | - Tetsuhiro Yamada
- Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics Research Department, Discovery Research Laboratories, Nippon Shinyaku Co., Ltd., Kyoto, Japan
| | - Kazutomi Kusano
- Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics Research Department, Discovery Research Laboratories, Nippon Shinyaku Co., Ltd., Kyoto, Japan
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18
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Ishii MN, Quinton M, Kamiguchi H. A highly sensitive and quantitative assay for dystrophin protein using Single Molecule Count Technology. Neuromuscul Disord 2023; 33:737-743. [PMID: 37666691 DOI: 10.1016/j.nmd.2023.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a genetic disease characterized by progressive muscle loss caused by mutations in dystrophin, resulting in decreased dystrophin levels. Dystrophin protein expression is a biomarker used to evaluate treatments that restore patient dystrophin levels. Currently, a semiquantitative assay using western blotting, which normalizes dystrophin expression to that of a control population, is used for regulatory filing. However, the current methods are limited in terms of sensitivity, quantification, and reproducibility. To address this, a highly sensitive and quantitative sandwich immune assay using Single Molecule Counting technology was established, with recombinant dystrophin protein as the calibrator. Capture and detection antibodies were selected to detect full-length dystrophin. Using this optimized assay, dystrophin levels in muscle samples from Myotonic Dystrophy (n = 9) and DMD (n = 8) subjects were 93.2 ± 31.9 (range: 49.4-145.3) and 14.5 ± 6.8 (range: 6.18-22.6) fmol/total protein mg, respectively. The lowest concentration of dystrophin measured in the DMD samples was 5 times higher than that in the lower limit of quantitation, a level not detected by western blotting. These data indicate that this assay accurately and sensitively measured dystrophin protein and may be useful in clinical trials assessing dystrophin restoration therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Misawa Niki Ishii
- Neuroscience Drug Discovery Unit, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, 251-0012, 26-1, 2-chome, Higashimuraoka, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Maria Quinton
- Neuroscience Drug Discovery Unit, Takeda Pharmaceuticals, 40 Lansdowne Street, Cambridge MA 02139 USA
| | - Hidenori Kamiguchi
- Neuroscience Drug Discovery Unit, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, 251-0012, 26-1, 2-chome, Higashimuraoka, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, Tokyo, Japan
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19
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Happi Mbakam C, Tremblay JP. Gene therapy for Duchenne muscular dystrophy: an update on the latest clinical developments. Expert Rev Neurother 2023; 23:905-920. [PMID: 37602688 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2023.2249607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is one of the most severe and devastating neuromuscular hereditary diseases with a male newborn incidence of 20 000 cases each year. The disease caused by mutations (exon deletions, nonsense mutations, intra-exonic insertions or deletions, exon duplications, splice site defects, and deep intronic mutations) in the DMD gene, progressively leads to muscle wasting and loss of ambulation. This situation is painful for both patients and their families, calling for an emergent need for effective treatments. AREAS COVERED In this review, the authors describe the state of the gene therapy approach in clinical trials for DMD. This therapeutics included gene replacement, gene substitution, RNA-based therapeutics, readthrough mutation, and the CRISPR approach. EXPERT OPINION Only a few drug candidates have yet been granted conditional approval for the treatment of DMD. Most of these therapies have only a modest capability to restore the dystrophin or improve muscle function, suggesting an important unmet need in the development of DMD therapeutics. Complementary genes and cellular therapeutics need to be explored to both restore dystrophin, improve muscle function, and efficiently reconstitute the muscle fibers in the advanced stage of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cedric Happi Mbakam
- CHU de Québec research centre, Laval University, Québec, Canada
- Molecular Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Laval University, Québec, Canada
| | - Jacques P Tremblay
- CHU de Québec research centre, Laval University, Québec, Canada
- Molecular Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Laval University, Québec, Canada
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20
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Khorkova O, Stahl J, Joji A, Volmar CH, Wahlestedt C. Amplifying gene expression with RNA-targeted therapeutics. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2023; 22:539-561. [PMID: 37253858 PMCID: PMC10227815 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-023-00704-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Many diseases are caused by insufficient expression of mutated genes and would benefit from increased expression of the corresponding protein. However, in drug development, it has been historically easier to develop drugs with inhibitory or antagonistic effects. Protein replacement and gene therapy can achieve the goal of increased protein expression but have limitations. Recent discoveries of the extensive regulatory networks formed by non-coding RNAs offer alternative targets and strategies to amplify the production of a specific protein. In addition to RNA-targeting small molecules, new nucleic acid-based therapeutic modalities that allow highly specific modulation of RNA-based regulatory networks are being developed. Such approaches can directly target the stability of mRNAs or modulate non-coding RNA-mediated regulation of transcription and translation. This Review highlights emerging RNA-targeted therapeutics for gene activation, focusing on opportunities and challenges for translation to the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Khorkova
- OPKO Health, Miami, FL, USA
- Center for Therapeutic Innovation, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Jack Stahl
- Center for Therapeutic Innovation, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Aswathy Joji
- Center for Therapeutic Innovation, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Claude-Henry Volmar
- Center for Therapeutic Innovation, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Claes Wahlestedt
- Center for Therapeutic Innovation, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA.
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA.
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21
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Czifrus E, Berlau DJ. Viltolarsen: a treatment option for Duchenne muscular dystrophy patients who are amenable to exon 53 skipping therapy. Expert Rev Neurother 2023; 23:853-858. [PMID: 37572081 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2023.2246658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/14/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a progressive genetic disease leading to muscular weakness. DMD is caused by mutations of the dystrophin gene on the X chromosome that is responsible for production of dystrophin protein. Dystrophin contributes to structural support in muscle cells and mutations result in dystrophin protein deficiency which causes muscle damage and the associated clinical presentation. Exon skipping medications, including the exon 53 targeting viltolarsen, are the first agents with the ability to partially restore dystrophin protein. AREAS COVERED Herein, the authors profile viltolarsen for the DMD patients who are amenable to exon 53 skipping therapy and provide their expert perspectives on this subject. EXPERT OPINION Current findings suggest that viltolarsen could play a role in the current and possible future treatment of DMD. Viltolarsen seems to be safe and restores dystrophin protein to around 6% of the normal level. Due to orphan drug status, after the completion of the phase 2 clinical trial, viltolarsen was granted accelerated approval in Japan and in the US. A phase 3 trial is currently in progress and needs to earn full approval. Although a multidisciplinary approach continues to be critical, the addition of exon skipping agents like viltolarsen may improve the quality of patients' lives. However, data on the long-term safety and efficacy of this medication are not yet available due to its recent accelerated approval.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eszter Czifrus
- Semmelweis University Faculty of Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Daniel J Berlau
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Regis University School of Pharmacy, Denver, CO, USA
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22
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Bez Batti Angulski A, Hosny N, Cohen H, Martin AA, Hahn D, Bauer J, Metzger JM. Duchenne muscular dystrophy: disease mechanism and therapeutic strategies. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1183101. [PMID: 37435300 PMCID: PMC10330733 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1183101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a severe, progressive, and ultimately fatal disease of skeletal muscle wasting, respiratory insufficiency, and cardiomyopathy. The identification of the dystrophin gene as central to DMD pathogenesis has led to the understanding of the muscle membrane and the proteins involved in membrane stability as the focal point of the disease. The lessons learned from decades of research in human genetics, biochemistry, and physiology have culminated in establishing the myriad functionalities of dystrophin in striated muscle biology. Here, we review the pathophysiological basis of DMD and discuss recent progress toward the development of therapeutic strategies for DMD that are currently close to or are in human clinical trials. The first section of the review focuses on DMD and the mechanisms contributing to membrane instability, inflammation, and fibrosis. The second section discusses therapeutic strategies currently used to treat DMD. This includes a focus on outlining the strengths and limitations of approaches directed at correcting the genetic defect through dystrophin gene replacement, modification, repair, and/or a range of dystrophin-independent approaches. The final section highlights the different therapeutic strategies for DMD currently in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Joseph M. Metzger
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, United States
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23
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Chang M, Cai Y, Gao Z, Chen X, Liu B, Zhang C, Yu W, Cao Q, Shen Y, Yao X, Chen X, Sun H. Duchenne muscular dystrophy: pathogenesis and promising therapies. J Neurol 2023:10.1007/s00415-023-11796-x. [PMID: 37258941 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-023-11796-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a severe, progressive, muscle-wasting disease, characterized by progressive deterioration of skeletal muscle that causes rapid loss of mobility. The failure in respiratory and cardiac muscles is the underlying cause of premature death in most patients with DMD. Mutations in the gene encoding dystrophin result in dystrophin deficiency, which is the underlying pathogenesis of DMD. Dystrophin-deficient myocytes are dysfunctional and vulnerable to injury, triggering a series of subsequent pathological changes. In this review, we detail the molecular mechanism of DMD, dystrophin deficiency-induced muscle cell damage (oxidative stress injury, dysregulated calcium homeostasis, and sarcolemma instability) and other cell damage and dysfunction (neuromuscular junction impairment and abnormal differentiation of muscle satellite). We also describe aberrant function of other cells and impaired muscle regeneration due to deterioration of the muscle microenvironment, and dystrophin deficiency-induced multiple organ dysfunction, while summarizing the recent advances in the treatment of DMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengyuan Chang
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Tissue Engineering Technology Products, Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Yong Cai
- Department of Neurology, Binhai County People's Hospital, Yancheng, 224500, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Zihui Gao
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Tissue Engineering Technology Products, Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin Chen
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Boya Liu
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Tissue Engineering Technology Products, Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Cheng Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Tissue Engineering Technology Products, Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Weiran Yu
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Medical College, Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Qianqian Cao
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Tissue Engineering Technology Products, Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuntian Shen
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Tissue Engineering Technology Products, Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Xinlei Yao
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Tissue Engineering Technology Products, Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xiaoyang Chen
- Department of Ultrasound, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China.
| | - Hualin Sun
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Tissue Engineering Technology Products, Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China.
- Research and Development Center for E-Learning, Ministry of Education, Beijing, 100816, People's Republic of China.
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24
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Ishizuka T, Komaki H, Asahina Y, Nakamura H, Motohashi N, Takeshita E, Shimizu‐Motohashi Y, Ishiyama A, Yonee C, Maruyama S, Hida E, Aoki Y. Systemic administration of the antisense oligonucleotide
NS
‐089/
NCNP
‐02 for skipping of exon 44 in patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy: Study protocol for a phase I/
II
clinical trial. Neuropsychopharmacol Rep 2023. [DOI: 10.1002/npr2.12335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/07/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Takami Ishizuka
- Clinical Research and Education Promotion Division National Center Hospital, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry Tokyo Japan
| | - Hirofumi Komaki
- Clinical Research and Education Promotion Division National Center Hospital, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry Tokyo Japan
- Department of Child Neurology National Center Hospital, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry Tokyo Japan
| | - Yasuko Asahina
- Clinical Research and Education Promotion Division National Center Hospital, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry Tokyo Japan
| | - Harumasa Nakamura
- Clinical Research and Education Promotion Division National Center Hospital, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry Tokyo Japan
| | - Norio Motohashi
- Department of Molecular Therapy National Institute of Neuroscience, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry Tokyo Japan
| | - Eri Takeshita
- Department of Child Neurology National Center Hospital, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry Tokyo Japan
| | - Yuko Shimizu‐Motohashi
- Department of Child Neurology National Center Hospital, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry Tokyo Japan
| | - Akihiko Ishiyama
- Department of Child Neurology National Center Hospital, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry Tokyo Japan
| | - Chihiro Yonee
- Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences Kagoshima University Kagoshima City Kagoshima Japan
| | - Shinsuke Maruyama
- Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences Kagoshima University Kagoshima City Kagoshima Japan
| | - Eisuke Hida
- Department of Biostatistics and Data Science, Graduate School of Medicine Osaka University Osaka Japan
| | - Yoshitsugu Aoki
- Department of Molecular Therapy National Institute of Neuroscience, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry Tokyo Japan
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25
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Patterson G, Conner H, Groneman M, Blavo C, Parmar MS. Duchenne muscular dystrophy: Current treatment and emerging exon skipping and gene therapy approach. Eur J Pharmacol 2023; 947:175675. [PMID: 36963652 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2023.175675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/26/2023]
Abstract
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is an X-linked recessive neuromuscular disorder that causes debilitating muscle weakness and atrophy due to a loss of the dystrophin protein. Patients with DMD are commonly diagnosed at about 3-5 years of age and progressively decline until complications of the disease often result in death at about 20 years of age. While there is no current cure for DMD, several treatment options focus on improving the quality of life and slowing progression of symptoms associated with the disease. The current treatment for DMD is glucocorticoids and physical therapy. Respiratory therapy, cardiac management, bone health maintenance, orthopedic interventions, and dietary considerations are also utilized in managing DMD patients. Emerging therapeutic approaches include gene transfer therapy, using adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors, and exon skipping agents. Both approaches have been shown to be relatively safe, with few significant side effects. Even though exon skipping agents produce a smaller dystrophin protein, they effectively preserve a significant portion of its function. Exon skipping agents have clinical advantages over traditional therapies, such as corticosteroids, because they slow the progression of DMD in addition to relieving symptoms. This review discusses the pathogenesis of DMD and explores the current treatment options as well as new and emerging therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grant Patterson
- Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Clearwater, FL, 33759, USA
| | - Haley Conner
- Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Clearwater, FL, 33759, USA
| | - Mecham Groneman
- Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Clearwater, FL, 33759, USA
| | - Cyril Blavo
- Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Clearwater, FL, 33759, USA; Department of Public Health, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL, 33314, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL, 33314, USA
| | - Mayur S Parmar
- Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Clearwater, FL, 33759, USA.
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26
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Ishii MN, Nakashima M, Kamiguchi H, Zach N, Kuboki R, Baba R, Hirakawa T, Suzuki K, Quinton M. Urine titin as a novel biomarker for Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Neuromuscul Disord 2023; 33:302-308. [PMID: 36871413 DOI: 10.1016/j.nmd.2023.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is the most severe form of muscular dystrophy that is caused by lack of dystrophin, a critical structural protein in skeletal muscle. DMD treatments, and quantitative biomarkers to assess the efficacy of potential treatments, are urgently needed. Previous evidence has shown that titin, a muscle cell protein, is increased in the urine of patients with DMD, suggesting its usefulness as a DMD biomarker. Here, we demonstrated that the elevated titin in urine is directly associated with the lack of dystrophin and urine titin responses to drug treatment. We performed a drug intervention study using mdx mice, a DMD mouse model. We showed that mdx mice, which lack dystrophin due to a mutation in exon 23 of the Dmd gene, have elevated urine titin. Treatment with an exon skipper that targets exon 23 rescued muscle dystrophin level and dramatically decreased urine titin in mdx mice and correlates with dystrophin expression. We also demonstrated that titin levels were significantly increased in the urine of patients with DMD. This suggests that elevated urine titin level might be a hallmark of DMD and a useful pharmacodynamic marker for therapies designed to restore dystrophin levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Misawa Niki Ishii
- Neuroscience Drug Discovery Unit, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Tokyo, 251-0012, 26-1, 2-chome, Higashimuraoka, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, Japan.
| | - Masato Nakashima
- Neuroscience Drug Discovery Unit, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Tokyo, 251-0012, 26-1, 2-chome, Higashimuraoka, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Hidenori Kamiguchi
- Neuroscience Drug Discovery Unit, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Tokyo, 251-0012, 26-1, 2-chome, Higashimuraoka, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Neta Zach
- Neuroscience Drug Discovery Unit, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, US, 350 Massachusetts Ave Cambridge, MA 02139, United Kingdom
| | - Ryosuke Kuboki
- Neuroscience Drug Discovery Unit, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Tokyo, 251-0012, 26-1, 2-chome, Higashimuraoka, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Rina Baba
- Neuroscience Drug Discovery Unit, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Tokyo, 251-0012, 26-1, 2-chome, Higashimuraoka, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Takeshi Hirakawa
- Neuroscience Drug Discovery Unit, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Tokyo, 251-0012, 26-1, 2-chome, Higashimuraoka, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Kazunori Suzuki
- Neuroscience Drug Discovery Unit, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Tokyo, 251-0012, 26-1, 2-chome, Higashimuraoka, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Maria Quinton
- Neuroscience Drug Discovery Unit, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, US, 350 Massachusetts Ave Cambridge, MA 02139, United Kingdom
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Abstract
Viltolarsen is a phosphorodiamidate morpholino antisense oligonucleotide (PMO) designed to skip exon 53 of the DMD gene for the treatment of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), one of the most common lethal genetic disorders characterized by progressive degeneration of skeletal muscles and cardiomyopathy. It was developed by Nippon Shinyaku in collaboration with the National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry (NCNP) in Japan based on the preclinical studies conducted in the DMD dog model at the NCNP. After showing hopeful results in pre-clinical trials and several clinical trials across North America and Japan, it received US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for DMD in 2020. Viltolarsen restores the reading frame of the DMD gene by skipping exon 53 and produces a truncated but functional form of dystrophin. It can treat approximately 8-10% of the DMD patient population. This paper aims to summarize the development of viltolarsen from preclinical trials to clinical trials to, finally, FDA approval, and discusses the challenges that come with fighting DMD using antisense therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohini Roy Roshmi
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Toshifumi Yokota
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada.
- The Friends of Garrett Cumming Research & Muscular Dystrophy Canada, HM Toupin Neurological Science Research Chair, Edmonton, Canada.
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28
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Bioanalysis of Oligonucleotide by LC-MS: Effects of Ion Pairing Regents and Recent Advances in Ion-Pairing-Free Analytical Strategies. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232415474. [PMID: 36555119 PMCID: PMC9779676 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232415474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Oligonucleotides (OGNs) are relatively new modalities that offer unique opportunities to expand the therapeutic targets. Reliable and high-throughput bioanalytical methods are pivotal for preclinical and clinical investigations of therapeutic OGNs. Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) is now evolving into being the method of choice for the bioanalysis of OGNs. Ion paring reversed-phase liquid chromatography (IP-RPLC) has been widely used in sample preparation and LC-MS analysis of OGNs; however, there are technical issues associated with these methods. IP-free methods, such as hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography (HILIC) and anion-exchange techniques, have emerged as promising approaches for the bioanalysis of OGNs. In this review, the state-of-the-art IP-RPLC-MS bioanalytical methods of OGNs and their metabolites published in the past 10 years (2012-2022) are critically reviewed. Recent advances in IP-reagent-free LC-MS bioanalysis methods are discussed. Finally, we describe future opportunities for developing new methods that can be used for the comprehensive bioanalysis of OGNs.
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29
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Wu H, Wahane A, Alhamadani F, Zhang K, Parikh R, Lee S, McCabe EM, Rasmussen TP, Bahal R, Zhong XB, Manautou JE. Nephrotoxicity of marketed antisense oligonucleotide drugs. CURRENT OPINION IN TOXICOLOGY 2022; 32:100373. [PMID: 37193356 PMCID: PMC10174585 DOI: 10.1016/j.cotox.2022.100373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The field of antisense oligonucleotide (ASO)-based therapies have been making strides in precision medicine due to their potent therapeutic application. Early successes in treating some genetic diseases are now attributed to an emerging class of antisense drugs. After two decades, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a considerable number of ASO drugs, primarily to treat rare diseases with optimal therapeutic outcomes. However, safety is one of the biggest challenges to the therapeutic utility of ASO drugs. Due to patients' and health care practitioners' urgent demands for medicines for untreatable conditions, many ASO drugs have been approved. However, a complete understanding of the mechanisms of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) and toxicities of ASOs still need to be resolved. The range of ADRs is unique to a specific drug, while few ADRs are common to a section of drugs as a whole. Nephrotoxicity is an important concern that needs to be addressed considering the clinical translation of any drug candidates ranging from small molecules to ASO-based drugs. This article encompasses what is known about the nephrotoxicity of ASO drugs, the potential mechanisms of action(s), and recommendations for future investigations on the safety of ASO drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hangyu Wu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut 06269, USA
| | - Aniket Wahane
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut 06269, USA
| | - Feryal Alhamadani
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut 06269, USA
| | - Kristy Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut 06269, USA
| | - Rajvi Parikh
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut 06269, USA
| | - SooWan Lee
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut 06269, USA
| | - Evan M McCabe
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut 06269, USA
| | - Theodore P Rasmussen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut 06269, USA
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut 06269, USA
| | - Raman Bahal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut 06269, USA
| | - Xiao-Bo Zhong
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut 06269, USA
| | - José E Manautou
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut 06269, USA
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30
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Abstract
Muscular dystrophies are a group of genetic disorders characterized by varying degrees of progressive muscle weakness and degeneration. They are clinically and genetically heterogeneous but share the common histological features of dystrophic muscle. There is currently no cure for muscular dystrophies, which is of particular concern for the more disabling and/or lethal forms of the disease. Through the years, several therapies have encouragingly been developed for muscular dystrophies and include genetic, cellular, and pharmacological approaches. In this chapter, we undertake a comprehensive exploration of muscular dystrophy therapeutics under current development. Our review includes antisense therapy, CRISPR, gene replacement, cell therapy, nonsense suppression, and disease-modifying small molecule compounds.
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Amanat M, Nemeth CL, Fine AS, Leung DG, Fatemi A. Antisense Oligonucleotide Therapy for the Nervous System: From Bench to Bedside with Emphasis on Pediatric Neurology. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:2389. [PMID: 36365206 PMCID: PMC9695718 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14112389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) are disease-modifying agents affecting protein-coding and noncoding ribonucleic acids. Depending on the chemical modification and the location of hybridization, ASOs are able to reduce the level of toxic proteins, increase the level of functional protein, or modify the structure of impaired protein to improve function. There are multiple challenges in delivering ASOs to their site of action. Chemical modifications in the phosphodiester bond, nucleotide sugar, and nucleobase can increase structural thermodynamic stability and prevent ASO degradation. Furthermore, different particles, including viral vectors, conjugated peptides, conjugated antibodies, and nanocarriers, may improve ASO delivery. To date, six ASOs have been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in three neurological disorders: spinal muscular atrophy, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, and polyneuropathy caused by hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis. Ongoing preclinical and clinical studies are assessing the safety and efficacy of ASOs in multiple genetic and acquired neurological conditions. The current review provides an update on underlying mechanisms, design, chemical modifications, and delivery of ASOs. The administration of FDA-approved ASOs in neurological disorders is described, and current evidence on the safety and efficacy of ASOs in other neurological conditions, including pediatric neurological disorders, is reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Man Amanat
- Moser Center for Leukodystrophies, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Christina L. Nemeth
- Moser Center for Leukodystrophies, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Amena Smith Fine
- Moser Center for Leukodystrophies, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Doris G. Leung
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Center for Genetic Muscle Disorders, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Ali Fatemi
- Moser Center for Leukodystrophies, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
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Kracht KD, Eichorn NL, Berlau DJ. Perspectives on the advances in the pharmacotherapeutic management of Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2022; 23:1701-1710. [PMID: 36168943 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2022.2130246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION : Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a progressive genetic disease characterized by muscular weakness with a global prevalence of 7.1 cases per 100,000 males. DMD is caused by mutations of the dystrophin gene on the X chromosome which is responsible for dystrophin protein production. Dystrophin is a cytoskeletal protein that contributes to structural support in muscle cells. DMD mutations result in dystrophin protein deficiency which leads to muscle damage and the associated clinical presentation. AREAS COVERED : Corticosteroids such as prednisone and deflazacort are routinely given to patients to treat inflammation, but their use is limited by the occurrence of side effects and a lack of standardized prescribing. Exon-skipping medications are emerging as treatment options for a small portion of DMD patients even though efficacy is uncertain. Many new therapeutics are under development that target inflammation, fibrosis, and dystrophin replacement. EXPERT OPINION : Because of side effects associated with corticosteroid use, there is need for better alternatives to the standard of care. Excessive cost is a barrier to patients receiving medications that have yet to have established efficacy. Additional therapies have the potential to help patients with DMD, although most are several years away from approval for patient use.
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Deng J, Zhang J, Shi K, Liu Z. Drug development progress in duchenne muscular dystrophy. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:950651. [PMID: 35935842 PMCID: PMC9353054 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.950651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a severe, progressive, and incurable X-linked disorder caused by mutations in the dystrophin gene. Patients with DMD have an absence of functional dystrophin protein, which results in chronic damage of muscle fibers during contraction, thus leading to deterioration of muscle quality and loss of muscle mass over time. Although there is currently no cure for DMD, improvements in treatment care and management could delay disease progression and improve quality of life, thereby prolonging life expectancy for these patients. Furthermore, active research efforts are ongoing to develop therapeutic strategies that target dystrophin deficiency, such as gene replacement therapies, exon skipping, and readthrough therapy, as well as strategies that target secondary pathology of DMD, such as novel anti-inflammatory compounds, myostatin inhibitors, and cardioprotective compounds. Furthermore, longitudinal modeling approaches have been used to characterize the progression of MRI and functional endpoints for predictive purposes to inform Go/No Go decisions in drug development. This review showcases approved drugs or drug candidates along their development paths and also provides information on primary endpoints and enrollment size of Ph2/3 and Ph3 trials in the DMD space.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiexin Deng
- School of Nursing and Health, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
- *Correspondence: Jiexin Deng, ; Zhigang Liu,
| | - Junshi Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Huaihe Hospital of Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Keli Shi
- School of Medicine, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Zhigang Liu
- Department of Orthopedics, First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University, Kaifeng, China
- *Correspondence: Jiexin Deng, ; Zhigang Liu,
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34
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Eser G, Topaloğlu H. Current Outline of Exon Skipping Trials in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13071241. [PMID: 35886024 PMCID: PMC9320322 DOI: 10.3390/genes13071241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Revised: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Molecular treatments for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) are already in clinical practice. One particular means is exon skipping, an approach which has more than 15 years of background. There are several promising clinical trials based on earlier works. The aim is to be able to initiate the production of enough dystrophin to change the rate of progression and create a clinical shift towards the better. Some of these molecules already have received at least conditional approval by health authorities; however, we still need new accumulating data.
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35
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Emerging therapies for Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Lancet Neurol 2022; 21:814-829. [DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(22)00125-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Revised: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Migliorati JM, Liu S, Liu A, Gogate A, Nair S, Bahal R, Rasmussen TP, Manautou JE, Zhong XB. Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, and Excretion of US Food and Drug Administration-Approved Antisense Oligonucleotide Drugs. Drug Metab Dispos 2022; 50:888-897. [PMID: 35221287 PMCID: PMC11022858 DOI: 10.1124/dmd.121.000417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) are the key biologic processes for determination of a drug's pharmacokinetic parameters, which have direct impacts on efficacy and adverse drug reactions (ADRs). The chemical structures, dosage forms, and sites and routes of administration are the principal determinants of ADME profiles and consequent impacts on their efficacy and ADRs. Newly developed large molecule biologic antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) drugs have completely unique ADME that is not fully defined. ASO-based drugs are single-stranded synthetic antisense nucleic acids with diverse modes of drug actions from induction of mRNA degradation, exon skipping and restoration, and interactions with proteins. ASO drugs have a great potential to treat certain human diseases that have remained untreatable with small molecule-based drugs. The ADME of ASO drugs contributes to their unique set of ADRs and toxicity. In this review, to better understand their ADME, the 10 US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved ASO drugs were selected: fomivirsen, pegaptanib, mipomersen, nusinersen, inotersen, defibrotide, eteplirsen, golodirsen, viltolarsen, and casimersen. A meta-analysis was conducted on their formulation, dosage, sites of administration, local and systematic distribution, metabolism, degradation, and excretion. Membrane permeabilization through endocytosis and nucleolytic degradation by endonucleases and exonucleases are major ADME features of the ASO drugs that differ from small-molecule drugs. The information summarized here provides comprehensive ADME characteristics of FDA-approved ASO drugs, leading to a better understanding of their therapeutic efficacy and their potential ADRs and toxicity. Numerous knowledge gaps, particularly on cellular uptake and subcellular trafficking and distribution, are identified, and future perspectives and directions are discussed. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Through a systematic analysis of the existing information of absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) parameters for 10 US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) drugs, this review provides an overall view of the unique ADME characteristics of ASO drugs, which are distinct from small chemical drug ADME. This knowledge is useful for discovery and development of new ASO drugs as well as clinical use of current FDA-approved ASO drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia M Migliorati
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy (J.M.M., S.L., A.L., A.G., R.B., T.P.R., J.E.M., X.Z.) and Department of Molecular and Cell Biology (S.N.), University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut
| | - Sunna Liu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy (J.M.M., S.L., A.L., A.G., R.B., T.P.R., J.E.M., X.Z.) and Department of Molecular and Cell Biology (S.N.), University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut
| | - Anna Liu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy (J.M.M., S.L., A.L., A.G., R.B., T.P.R., J.E.M., X.Z.) and Department of Molecular and Cell Biology (S.N.), University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut
| | - Anagha Gogate
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy (J.M.M., S.L., A.L., A.G., R.B., T.P.R., J.E.M., X.Z.) and Department of Molecular and Cell Biology (S.N.), University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut
| | - Sreenidhi Nair
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy (J.M.M., S.L., A.L., A.G., R.B., T.P.R., J.E.M., X.Z.) and Department of Molecular and Cell Biology (S.N.), University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut
| | - Raman Bahal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy (J.M.M., S.L., A.L., A.G., R.B., T.P.R., J.E.M., X.Z.) and Department of Molecular and Cell Biology (S.N.), University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut
| | - Theodore P Rasmussen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy (J.M.M., S.L., A.L., A.G., R.B., T.P.R., J.E.M., X.Z.) and Department of Molecular and Cell Biology (S.N.), University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut
| | - José E Manautou
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy (J.M.M., S.L., A.L., A.G., R.B., T.P.R., J.E.M., X.Z.) and Department of Molecular and Cell Biology (S.N.), University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut
| | - Xiao-Bo Zhong
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy (J.M.M., S.L., A.L., A.G., R.B., T.P.R., J.E.M., X.Z.) and Department of Molecular and Cell Biology (S.N.), University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut
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Clemens PR, Rao VK, Connolly AM, Harper AD, Mah JK, McDonald CM, Smith EC, Zaidman CM, Nakagawa T, Hoffman EP. Long-Term Functional Efficacy and Safety of Viltolarsen in Patients with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. J Neuromuscul Dis 2022; 9:493-501. [PMID: 35634851 PMCID: PMC9398057 DOI: 10.3233/jnd-220811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Background: Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a rare, genetic disease caused by mutations in the DMD gene resulting in an absence of functional dystrophin protein. Viltolarsen, an exon 53 skipping therapy, has been shown to increase endogenous dystrophin levels. Herein, long-term (>2 years) functional outcomes in viltolarsen treated patients were compared to a matched historical control group. Objective: To evaluate long-term efficacy and safety of the anti-sense oligonucleotide viltolarsen in the treatment of patients with DMD amenable to exon 53 skipping therapy. Methods: This trial (NCT03167255) is the extension of a previously published 24-week trial in North America (NCT02740972) that examined dystrophin levels, timed function tests compared to a matched historical control group (Cooperative International Neuromuscular Research Group Duchenne Natural History Study, CINRG DNHS), and safety in boys 4 to < 10 years (N = 16) with DMD amenable to exon 53 skipping who were treated with viltolarsen. Both groups were treated with glucocorticoids. All 16 participants elected to enroll in this long-term trial (up to 192 weeks) to continue evaluation of motor function and safety. Results: Time to stand from supine and time to run/walk 10 meters showed stabilization from baseline through week 109 for viltolarsen-treated participants whereas the historical control group showed decline (statistically significant differences for multiple timepoints). Safety was similar to that observed in the previous 24-week trial, which was predominantly mild. There have been no treatment-related serious adverse events and no discontinuations. Conclusions: Based on these results at over 2 years, viltolarsen can be a new treatment option for patients with DMD amenable to exon 53 skipping.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula R. Clemens
- Department of Neurology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Vamshi K. Rao
- Division of Neurology, Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Anne M. Connolly
- Division of Neurology, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Amy D. Harper
- Children’s Hospital of Richmond at Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Jean K. Mah
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Craig M. McDonald
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Department of Pediatrics, UC Davis Health, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, California
| | | | - Craig M. Zaidman
- Department of Neurology, Washington University at St Louis, St Louis, Missouri
| | | | - Eric P. Hoffman
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, State University of New York at Binghamton, Binghamton, New York
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38
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Reash NF, James MK, Alfano LN, Mayhew AG, Jacobs M, Iammarino MA, Holsten S, Sakamoto C, Tateishi T, Yajima H, Duong T, de Wolf B, Gee R, Bharucha-Goebel DX, Bravver E, Mori-Yoshimura M, Bushby K, Rufibach LE, Straub V, Lowes LP. Comparison of strength testing modalities in dysferlinopathy. Muscle Nerve 2022; 66:159-166. [PMID: 35506767 DOI: 10.1002/mus.27570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Revised: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION/AIMS Dysferlinopathy demonstrates heterogeneity in muscle weakness between patients, which can progress at different rates over time. Changing muscle strength due to disease progression or from an investigational product is associated with changing functional ability. The purpose of this study was to compare three methods of strength testing used in the Clinical Outcome Study (COS) for dysferlinopathy to understand which method and which muscle groups were most sensitive to change over time. METHODS Patients were evaluated at each study visit using functional scales, manual muscle testing, and handheld dynamometry (HHD) at all 15 sites. A fixed-frame system (Fixed) was used at a subset of seven sites. Screening and baseline visits were evaluated for reliability. Data over a 1-year period were analyzed to determine sensitivity to change among strength modalities and individual muscle groups. RESULTS HHD and Fixed captured significant change across 1 year in summed muscle strength score of four muscle groups (P < .01). Strength summed scores were significantly correlated with functional scales (rho = 0.68-0.92, P < .001). Individual muscle groups, however, showed high levels of variability between visits. DISCUSSION Although both HHD and Fixed demonstrate change over 12 months, HHD is a less expensive option that provides data on a continuous scale and may be easier to implement. Due to variability in strength measures, researchers should carefully consider use of strength testing as an outcome and may wish to select functional measures with less variability as clinical trial endpoints.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie F Reash
- The Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Meredith K James
- The John Walton Muscular Dystrophy Research Centre, Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University and Newcastle Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Lindsay N Alfano
- The Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Anna G Mayhew
- The John Walton Muscular Dystrophy Research Centre, Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University and Newcastle Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Marni Jacobs
- Center for Translational Science, Division of Biostatistics and Study Methodology, Children's National Health System, Washington, DC.,Pediatrics, Epidemiology and Biostatistics, George Washington University, Washington, DC
| | - Megan A Iammarino
- The Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Scott Holsten
- Neuroscience Institute, Carolinas Neuromuscular/ALS-MDA Center, Carolinas HealthCare System, Charlotte, North Carolina
| | - Chikako Sakamoto
- Department of Physical Rehabilitation, National Center Hospital, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takayuki Tateishi
- Department of Physical Rehabilitation, National Center Hospital, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Yajima
- Department of Physical Rehabilitation, National Center Hospital, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tina Duong
- Cooperative International Neuromuscular Research Group, Children's National Health System, Washington, DC.,Lucile Salter Packard Children's Hospital at Stanford, Neurology, Palo Alto, California.,Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Brittney de Wolf
- Cooperative International Neuromuscular Research Group, Children's National Health System, Washington, DC
| | - Richard Gee
- Lucile Salter Packard Children's Hospital at Stanford, Neurology, Palo Alto, California
| | - Diana X Bharucha-Goebel
- Department of Neurology Children's National Health System, Washington, DC.,National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Elena Bravver
- Neuroscience Institute, Carolinas Neuromuscular/ALS-MDA Center, Carolinas HealthCare System, Charlotte, North Carolina
| | - Madoka Mori-Yoshimura
- Department of Neurology, National Center Hospital, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kate Bushby
- The John Walton Muscular Dystrophy Research Centre, Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University and Newcastle Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | | | - Volker Straub
- The John Walton Muscular Dystrophy Research Centre, Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University and Newcastle Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Linda P Lowes
- The Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
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Happi Mbakam C, Lamothe G, Tremblay JP. Therapeutic Strategies for Dystrophin Replacement in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:859930. [PMID: 35419381 PMCID: PMC8995704 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.859930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is an X-linked hereditary disease characterized by progressive muscle wasting due to modifications in the DMD gene (exon deletions, nonsense mutations, intra-exonic insertions or deletions, exon duplications, splice site defects, and deep intronic mutations) that result in a lack of functional dystrophin expression. Many therapeutic approaches have so far been attempted to induce dystrophin expression and improve the patient phenotype. In this manuscript, we describe the relevant updates for some therapeutic strategies for DMD aiming to restore dystrophin expression. We also present and analyze in vitro and in vivo ongoing experimental approaches to treat the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cedric Happi Mbakam
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada.,Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Gabriel Lamothe
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada.,Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Jacques P Tremblay
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada.,Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
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40
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Roshmi RR, Yokota T. Pharmacological Profile of Viltolarsen for the Treatment of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy: A Japanese Experience. Clin Pharmacol 2021; 13:235-242. [PMID: 34938127 PMCID: PMC8688746 DOI: 10.2147/cpaa.s288842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a fatal, X-linked recessive disorder characterized by progressive muscle loss and cardiorespiratory complications. Mutations in the DMD gene that eliminate the production of dystrophin protein are the underlying causes of DMD. Viltolarsen is a drug of phosphorodiamidate morpholino oligomer (PMO) chemistry, designed to skip exon 53 of the DMD gene. It aims to produce truncated but partially functional dystrophin in DMD patients and restore muscle function. Based on a preclinical study showing the ability of antisense PMOs targeting the DMD gene to improve muscle function in a large animal model, viltolarsen was developed by Nippon Shinyaku and the National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry in Japan. Following clinical trials conducted in Japan, Canada, and the United States showing significant improvements in muscle function, viltolarsen was approved for medical use in Japan in March 2020 and the United States in August 2020, respectively. Viltolarsen is a mutation-specific drug and will work for 8% of the persons with DMD who carry mutations amenable to exon 53 skipping. This review summarizes the pharmacological profile of viltolarsen, important clinical trials, and challenges, focusing on the contribution of Japanese patients and researchers in its development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohini Roy Roshmi
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Toshifumi Yokota
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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41
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Vetter TA, Nicolau S, Bradley AJ, Frair EC, Flanigan KM. Automated immunofluorescence analysis for sensitive and precise dystrophin quantification in muscle biopsies. Neuropathol Appl Neurobiol 2021; 48:e12785. [PMID: 34847621 PMCID: PMC9184255 DOI: 10.1111/nan.12785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Revised: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Aims Dystrophin, the protein product of the DMD gene, plays a critical role in muscle integrity by stabilising the sarcolemma during contraction and relaxation. The DMD gene is vulnerable to a variety of mutations that may cause complete loss, depletion or truncation of the protein, leading to Duchenne and Becker muscular dystrophies. Precise and reproducible dystrophin quantification is essential in characterising DMD mutations and evaluating the outcome of efforts to induce dystrophin through gene therapies. Immunofluorescence microscopy offers high sensitivity to low levels of protein expression along with confirmation of localisation, making it a critical component of quantitative dystrophin expression assays. Methods We have developed an automated and unbiased approach for precise quantification of dystrophin immunofluorescence in muscle sections. This methodology uses microscope images of whole‐tissue sections stained for dystrophin and spectrin to measure dystrophin intensity and the proportion of dystrophin‐positive coverage at the sarcolemma of each muscle fibre. To ensure objectivity, the thresholds for dystrophin and spectrin are derived empirically from non‐sarcolemmal signal intensity within each tissue section. Furthermore, this approach is readily adaptable for measuring fibre morphology and other tissue markers. Results Our method demonstrates the sensitivity and reproducibility of this quantification approach across a wide range of dystrophin expression in both dystrophinopathy patient and healthy control samples, with high inter‐operator concordance. Conclusion As efforts to restore dystrophin expression in dystrophic muscle bring new potential therapies into clinical trials, this methodology represents a valuable tool for efficient and precise analysis of dystrophin and other muscle markers that reflect treatment efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatyana A Vetter
- Center for Gene Therapy, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Stefan Nicolau
- Center for Gene Therapy, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Adrienne J Bradley
- Center for Gene Therapy, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Emma C Frair
- Center for Gene Therapy, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Kevin M Flanigan
- Center for Gene Therapy, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA.,Departments of Pediatrics and Neurology, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
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42
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Fortunato F, Farnè M, Ferlini A. The DMD gene and therapeutic approaches to restore dystrophin. Neuromuscul Disord 2021; 31:1013-1020. [PMID: 34736624 DOI: 10.1016/j.nmd.2021.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a severe X-linked disease characterized by progressive muscle weakness. It is caused by a variety of DMD gene pathogenic variations (large deletions or duplications, and small mutations) which leads to the absence or to a decreased amount of dystrophin protein. The allelic Becker muscular dystrophy is characterized by later onset and milder muscle involvement, and other rarer phenotypes might also be associated, such as dilated cardiomyopathy, cognitive impairment, and other neurological signs. Following the identification of the genetic cause and the disease pathophysiology, innovative personalized therapies emerged. These can be categorized into two main groups: (1) therapies aiming at the restoration of dystrophin at the sarcolemma; (2) therapeutics dealing with secondary consequences of dystrophin deficiency. In this review we provide an overview about DMD genotype-phenotype correlation, and on main approaches to restore dystrophin as stop codon read-through, exon skipping, vector-mediated gene therapy, and genome-editing strategies, some of these are based on approved orphan drugs. Finally, we present the clinical potential of novel strategies combining therapies to correct the genetic defect and other approaches, targeting secondary downstream pathological cascade due to dystrophin deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda Fortunato
- Unit of Medical Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Marianna Farnè
- Unit of Medical Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Alessandra Ferlini
- Unit of Medical Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy; Dubowitz Neuromuscular Unit, Institute of Child Health, University College of London, London, UK.
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Matsuo M. Antisense Oligonucleotide-Mediated Exon-skipping Therapies: Precision Medicine Spreading from Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. JMA J 2021; 4:232-240. [PMID: 34414317 PMCID: PMC8355726 DOI: 10.31662/jmaj.2021-0019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In 1995, we were the first to propose antisense oligonucleotide (ASO)-mediated exon-skipping therapy for the treatment of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), a noncurable, progressive muscle-wasting disease. DMD is caused by deletion mutations in one or more exons of the DMD gene that shift the translational reading frame and create a premature stop codon, thus prohibiting dystrophin production. The therapy aims to correct out-of-frame mRNAs to produce in-frame transcripts by removing an exon during splicing, with the resumption of dystrophin production. As this treatment is recognized as the most promising, many extensive studies have been performed to develop ASOs that induce the skipping of DMD exons. In 2016, an ASO designed to skip exon 51 was first approved by the Food and Drug Administration, which accelerated studies on the use of ASOs to treat other monogenic diseases. The ease of mRNA editing by ASO-mediated exon skipping has resulted in the further application of exon-skipping therapy to nonmonogenic diseases, such as diabetes mellites. Recently, this precision medicine strategy was drastically transformed for the emergent treatment of only one patient with one ASO, which represents a future aspect of ASO-mediated exon-skipping therapy for extremely rare diseases. Herein, the invention of ASO-mediated exon-skipping therapy for DMD and the current applications of ASO-mediated exon-skipping therapies are reviewed, and future perspectives on this therapeutic strategy are discussed. This overview will encourage studies on ASO-mediated exon-skipping therapy and will especially contribute to the development of treatments for noncurable diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masafumi Matsuo
- KNC Department of Nucleic Acid Drug Discovery, Department of Physical Rehabilitation and Research Center for Locomotion Biology, Kobe Gakuin University, Kobe, Japan
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Wagner KR, Kuntz NL, Koenig E, East L, Upadhyay S, Han B, Shieh PB. Safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics of casimersen in patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy amenable to exon 45 skipping: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, dose-titration trial. Muscle Nerve 2021; 64:285-292. [PMID: 34105177 PMCID: PMC9290993 DOI: 10.1002/mus.27347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Revised: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION/AIMS Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is caused by mutations in the DMD gene resulting in the absence of dystrophin. Casimersen is a phosphorodiamidate morpholino oligomer designed to bypass frameshift DMD mutations and produce internally truncated, yet functional, dystrophin protein in patients amenable to exon 45 skipping. Our primary study objective was to evaluate safety and tolerability of casimersen; the secondary objective was to characterize the plasma pharmacokinetics. METHODS This multicenter, phase 1/2 trial enrolled 12 participants (aged 7-21 years, who had limited ambulation or were nonambulatory) and comprised a 12-week, double-blind dose titration, then an open-label extension for up to 132 weeks. During dose titration, participants were randomized 2:1 to weekly casimersen infusions at escalating doses of 4, 10, 20, and 30 mg/kg (≥2 weeks per dose), or placebo. RESULTS Participants received casimersen for a mean 139.6 weeks. Treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) occurred in all casimersen- and placebo-treated participants and were mostly mild (over 91.4%) and unrelated to casimersen or its dose. There were no deaths, dose reductions, abnormalities in laboratory parameters or vital signs, or casimersen-related serious AEs. Casimersen plasma concentration increased with dose and declined similarly for all dose levels over 24 hours postinfusion. All pharmacokinetic parameters were similar at weeks 7 and 60. DISCUSSION Casimersen was well tolerated in participants with DMD amenable to exon 45 skipping. Most TEAEs were mild, nonserious, and unrelated to casimersen. Plasma exposure was dose proportional with no suggestion of plasma accumulation. These results support further studies of casimersen in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn R. Wagner
- Center for Genetic Muscle DisordersKennedy Krieger InstituteBaltimoreMarylandUSA
- Departments of Neurology and NeuroscienceJohns Hopkins School of MedicineBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Nancy L. Kuntz
- Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's HospitalChicagoIllinoisUSA
| | - Erica Koenig
- Clinical Development, Sarepta Therapeutics, IncCambridgeMassachusettsUSA
| | - Lilly East
- Clinical Pharmacology, Sarepta Therapeutics, IncCambridgeMassachusettsUSA
| | - Sameer Upadhyay
- Pharmacovigilance, Sarepta Therapeutics, IncCambridgeMassachusettsUSA
| | - Baoguang Han
- Biostatistics, Sarepta Therapeutics, IncCambridgeMassachusettsUSA
| | - Perry B. Shieh
- Department of NeurologyUniversity of California, Los AngelesCaliforniaUSA
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Saoudi A, Goyenvalle A. [RNA splicing modulation: Therapeutic progress and perspectives]. Med Sci (Paris) 2021; 37:625-631. [PMID: 34180822 DOI: 10.1051/medsci/2021091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Advances in genetic and genomic research continue to increase our knowledge of hereditary diseases, and an increasing number of them are being attributed to aberrant splicing, thus representing ideal targets for RNA modulation therapies. New strategies to skip or re-include exons during the splicing process have emerged and are now widely evaluated in the clinic. Several drugs have recently been approved in particular for the treatment of Duchenne muscular dystrophy and spinal muscular atrophy. Among these molecules, antisense oligonucleotides, or ASOs, have gained increasing interest and have constantly been improved over the years through chemical modifications and design. However, their limited biodistribution following systemic administration still represents a major hurdle and the development of more potent alternative chemistries or new delivery systems has become a very active line of research in the past few years. In parallel, the use of small molecules with excellent biodistribution properties or of viral vectors to convey antisense sequences is also being investigated. In this review, we summarize the recent advances in splicing therapies through two examples of neuromuscular diseases and we discuss their main benefits and current limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amel Saoudi
- Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, Inserm, END-ICAP, Handicap neuromusculaire - physiopathologie, biothérapie et pharmacologie appliquées, 78000 Versailles, France - Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS, Institut des neurosciences Paris Saclay, 91190 Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Aurélie Goyenvalle
- Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, Inserm, END-ICAP, Handicap neuromusculaire - physiopathologie, biothérapie et pharmacologie appliquées, 78000 Versailles, France - Laboratoire international associé Biothérapies appliquées aux handicaps neuromusculaires (LIA BAHN), Centre scientifique de Monaco, Monaco
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Abstract
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a devastating, rare disease. While clinically described in the 19th century, the genetic foundation of DMD was not discovered until more than 100 years later. This genetic understanding opened the door to the development of genetic treatments for DMD. Over the course of the last 30 years, the research that supports this development has moved into the realm of clinical trials and regulatory drug approvals. Exon skipping to therapeutically restore the frame of an out-of-frame dystrophin mutation has taken center stage in drug development for DMD. The research reviewed here focuses on the clinical development of exon skipping for the treatment of DMD. In addition to the generation of clinical treatments that are being used for patient care, this research sets the stage for future therapeutic development with a focus on increasing efficacy while providing safety and addressing the multi-systemic aspects of DMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shin'ichi Takeda
- Honorary Director General, National Institute of Neuroscience, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry (NCNP), Kodaira, Japan
| | - Paula R Clemens
- Professor and Vice Chair of VA Affairs, Department of Neurology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Division Chief, Neurology, Medical Service Line, VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, PA USA
| | - Eric P Hoffman
- Professor, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Binghamton University - State University of New York, Binghamton, NY USA
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Kuraoka M, Aoki Y, Takeda S. Development of outcome measures according to dystrophic phenotypes in canine X-linked muscular dystrophy in Japan. Exp Anim 2021; 70:419-430. [PMID: 34135266 PMCID: PMC8614006 DOI: 10.1538/expanim.21-0072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is an X-linked lethal muscle disorder characterized by primary muscle degeneration. Therapeutic strategies for DMD have been extensively explored, and some are in the stage of human clinical trials. Along with the development of new therapies, sensitive outcome measures are needed to monitor the effects of new treatments. Therefore, we investigated outcome measures such as biomarkers and motor function evaluation in a dystrophic model of beagle dogs, canine X-linked muscular dystrophy in Japan (CXMDJ). Osteopontin (OPN), a myogenic inflammatory cytokine, was explored as a potential biomarker in dystrophic dogs over the disease course. The serum OPN levels of CXMDJ dystrophic dogs were elevated, even in the early disease phase, and this could be related to the presence of regenerating muscle fibers; as such, OPN would be a promising biomarker for muscle regeneration. Next, accelerometry, which is an efficient method to quantify performance in validated tasks, was used to evaluate motor function longitudinally in dystrophic dogs. We measured three-axis acceleration and angular velocity with wireless hybrid sensors during gait evaluations. Multiple parameters of acceleration and angular velocity showed notedly lower values in dystrophic dogs compared with wild-type dogs, even at the onset of muscle weakness. These parameters accordingly decreased with exacerbation of clinical manifestations along with the disease course. Multiple parameters also indicated gait abnormalities in dystrophic dogs, such as a waddling gait. These outcome measures could be applicable in clinical trials of patients with DMD or other muscle disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mutsuki Kuraoka
- Laboratory of Experimental Animal Science, Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University.,Department of Molecular Therapy, National Institute of Neuroscience, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry
| | - Yoshitsugu Aoki
- Department of Molecular Therapy, National Institute of Neuroscience, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry
| | - Shin'ichi Takeda
- National Institute of Neuroscience, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry
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Restoring Protein Expression in Neuromuscular Conditions: A Review Assessing the Current State of Exon Skipping/Inclusion and Gene Therapies for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy and Spinal Muscular Atrophy. BioDrugs 2021; 35:389-399. [PMID: 34097287 DOI: 10.1007/s40259-021-00486-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The debilitating neuromuscular disorders Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) and spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), which harm 1 in 5000 newborn males and 1 in 11,000 newborns, respectively, are marked by progressive muscle wasting among other complications. While DMD causes generalized muscle weakness due to the absence of the dystrophin protein, SMA patients generally face motor neuron degeneration because of the lack of the survival motor neuron (SMN) protein. Many of the most promising therapies for both conditions restore the absent proteins dystrophin and SMN. Antisense oligonucleotide-mediated exon skipping and inclusion therapies are advancing clinically with the approved DMD therapies casimersen, eteplirsen, golodirsen, and viltolarsen, and the SMA therapy nusinersen. Existing antisense therapies focus on skeletal muscle for DMD and motor neurons for SMA, respectively. Through innovative techniques, such as peptide conjugation and multi-exon skipping, these therapies could be optimized for efficacy and applicability. By contrast, gene replacement therapy is administered only once to patients during treatment. Currently, only onasemnogene abeparvovec for SMA has been approved. Safety shortcomings remain a major challenge for gene therapy. Nevertheless, gene therapy for DMD has strong potential to restore dystrophin expression in patients. In light of promising functional improvements, antisense and gene therapies stand poised to elevate the lives of patients with DMD and SMA.
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Gagliardi M, Ashizawa AT. The Challenges and Strategies of Antisense Oligonucleotide Drug Delivery. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9040433. [PMID: 33923688 PMCID: PMC8072990 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9040433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Revised: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) are used to selectively inhibit the translation of disease-associated genes via Ribonuclease H (RNaseH)-mediated cleavage or steric hindrance. They are being developed as a novel and promising class of drugs targeting a wide range of diseases. Despite the great potential and numerous ASO drugs in preclinical research and clinical trials, there are many limitations to this technology. In this review we will focus on the challenges of ASO delivery and the strategies adopted to improve their stability in the bloodstream, delivery to target sites, and cellular uptake. Focusing on liposomal delivery, we will specifically describe liposome-incorporated growth factor receptor-bound protein-2 (Grb2) antisense oligodeoxynucleotide BP1001. BP1001 is unique because it is uncharged and is essentially non-toxic, as demonstrated in preclinical and clinical studies. Additionally, its enhanced biodistribution makes it an attractive therapeutic modality for hematologic malignancies as well as solid tumors. A detailed understanding of the obstacles that ASOs face prior to reaching their targets and continued advances in methods to overcome them will allow us to harness ASOs’ full potential in precision medicine.
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Silencing Antibiotic Resistance with Antisense Oligonucleotides. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9040416. [PMID: 33921367 PMCID: PMC8068983 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9040416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Revised: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Antisense technologies consist of the utilization of oligonucleotides or oligonucleotide analogs to interfere with undesirable biological processes, commonly through inhibition of expression of selected genes. This field holds a lot of promise for the treatment of a very diverse group of diseases including viral and bacterial infections, genetic disorders, and cancer. To date, drugs approved for utilization in clinics or in clinical trials target diseases other than bacterial infections. Although several groups and companies are working on different strategies, the application of antisense technologies to prokaryotes still lags with respect to those that target other human diseases. In those cases where the focus is on bacterial pathogens, a subset of the research is dedicated to produce antisense compounds that silence or reduce expression of antibiotic resistance genes. Therefore, these compounds will be adjuvants administered with the antibiotic to which they reduce resistance levels. A varied group of oligonucleotide analogs like phosphorothioate or phosphorodiamidate morpholino residues, as well as peptide nucleic acids, locked nucleic acids and bridge nucleic acids, the latter two in gapmer configuration, have been utilized to reduce resistance levels. The major mechanisms of inhibition include eliciting cleavage of the target mRNA by the host’s RNase H or RNase P, and steric hindrance. The different approaches targeting resistance to β-lactams include carbapenems, aminoglycosides, chloramphenicol, macrolides, and fluoroquinolones. The purpose of this short review is to summarize the attempts to develop antisense compounds that inhibit expression of resistance to antibiotics.
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