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Rehwinkel J, Mehdipour P. ADAR1: from basic mechanisms to inhibitors. Trends Cell Biol 2024:S0962-8924(24)00120-X. [PMID: 39030076 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcb.2024.06.006] [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: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 06/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/21/2024]
Abstract
Adenosine deaminase acting on RNA 1 (ADAR1) converts adenosine to inosine in double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) molecules, a process known as A-to-I editing. ADAR1 deficiency in humans and mice results in profound inflammatory diseases characterised by the spontaneous induction of innate immunity. In cells lacking ADAR1, unedited RNAs activate RNA sensors. These include melanoma differentiation-associated gene 5 (MDA5) that induces the expression of cytokines, particularly type I interferons (IFNs), protein kinase R (PKR), oligoadenylate synthase (OAS), and Z-DNA/RNA binding protein 1 (ZBP1). Immunogenic RNAs 'defused' by ADAR1 may include transcripts from repetitive elements and other long duplex RNAs. Here, we review these recent fundamental discoveries and discuss implications for human diseases. Some tumours depend on ADAR1 to escape immune surveillance, opening the possibility of unleashing anticancer therapies with ADAR1 inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Rehwinkel
- Medical Research Council Translational Immune Discovery Unit, Medical Research Council Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DS, UK.
| | - Parinaz Mehdipour
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Old Road Campus Research Building, Roosevelt Drive, Headington, Oxford OX3 7DQ, UK.
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2
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Sobczak JM, Barkovska I, Balke I, Rothen DA, Mohsen MO, Skrastina D, Ogrina A, Martina B, Jansons J, Bogans J, Vogel M, Bachmann MF, Zeltins A. Identifying Key Drivers of Efficient B Cell Responses: On the Role of T Help, Antigen-Organization, and Toll-like Receptor Stimulation for Generating a Neutralizing Anti-Dengue Virus Response. Vaccines (Basel) 2024; 12:661. [PMID: 38932390 PMCID: PMC11209419 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines12060661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2024] [Revised: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
T help (Th), stimulation of toll-like receptors (pathogen-associated molecular patterns, PAMPs), and antigen organization and repetitiveness (pathogen-associated structural patterns, PASPs) were shown numerous times to be important in driving B-cell and antibody responses. In this study, we dissected the individual contributions of these parameters using newly developed "Immune-tag" technology. As model antigens, we used eGFP and the third domain of the dengue virus 1 envelope protein (DV1 EDIII), the major target of virus-neutralizing antibodies. The respective proteins were expressed alone or genetically fused to the N-terminal fragment of the cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) capsid protein-nCMV, rendering the antigens oligomeric. In a step-by-step manner, RNA was attached as a PAMP, and/or a universal Th-cell epitope was genetically added for additional Th. Finally, a PASP was added to the constructs by displaying the antigens highly organized and repetitively on the surface of CMV-derived virus-like particles (CuMV VLPs). Sera from immunized mice demonstrated that each component contributed stepwise to the immunogenicity of both proteins. All components combined in the CuMV VLP platform induced by far the highest antibody responses. In addition, the DV1 EDIII induced high levels of DENV-1-neutralizing antibodies only if displayed on VLPs. Thus, combining multiple cues typically associated with viruses results in optimal antibody responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan M. Sobczak
- Department of Immunology, University Clinic of Rheumatology and Immunology, Inselspital, CH-3010 Bern, Switzerland; (D.A.R.); (M.O.M.); (M.V.); (M.F.B.)
- Department of BioMedical Research, University of Bern, CH-3008 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Irena Barkovska
- Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre, LV-1067 Riga, Latvia; (I.B.); (I.B.); (D.S.); (A.O.); (J.J.); (J.B.); (A.Z.)
| | - Ina Balke
- Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre, LV-1067 Riga, Latvia; (I.B.); (I.B.); (D.S.); (A.O.); (J.J.); (J.B.); (A.Z.)
| | - Dominik A. Rothen
- Department of Immunology, University Clinic of Rheumatology and Immunology, Inselspital, CH-3010 Bern, Switzerland; (D.A.R.); (M.O.M.); (M.V.); (M.F.B.)
- Department of BioMedical Research, University of Bern, CH-3008 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Mona O. Mohsen
- Department of Immunology, University Clinic of Rheumatology and Immunology, Inselspital, CH-3010 Bern, Switzerland; (D.A.R.); (M.O.M.); (M.V.); (M.F.B.)
- Department of BioMedical Research, University of Bern, CH-3008 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Dace Skrastina
- Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre, LV-1067 Riga, Latvia; (I.B.); (I.B.); (D.S.); (A.O.); (J.J.); (J.B.); (A.Z.)
| | - Anete Ogrina
- Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre, LV-1067 Riga, Latvia; (I.B.); (I.B.); (D.S.); (A.O.); (J.J.); (J.B.); (A.Z.)
| | - Byron Martina
- Artemis Bioservices, 2629 JD Delft, The Netherlands;
- Protinhi Therapeutics, 6534 AT Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Juris Jansons
- Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre, LV-1067 Riga, Latvia; (I.B.); (I.B.); (D.S.); (A.O.); (J.J.); (J.B.); (A.Z.)
| | - Janis Bogans
- Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre, LV-1067 Riga, Latvia; (I.B.); (I.B.); (D.S.); (A.O.); (J.J.); (J.B.); (A.Z.)
| | - Monique Vogel
- Department of Immunology, University Clinic of Rheumatology and Immunology, Inselspital, CH-3010 Bern, Switzerland; (D.A.R.); (M.O.M.); (M.V.); (M.F.B.)
- Department of BioMedical Research, University of Bern, CH-3008 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Martin F. Bachmann
- Department of Immunology, University Clinic of Rheumatology and Immunology, Inselspital, CH-3010 Bern, Switzerland; (D.A.R.); (M.O.M.); (M.V.); (M.F.B.)
- Department of BioMedical Research, University of Bern, CH-3008 Bern, Switzerland
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, The Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7BN, UK
| | - Andris Zeltins
- Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre, LV-1067 Riga, Latvia; (I.B.); (I.B.); (D.S.); (A.O.); (J.J.); (J.B.); (A.Z.)
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3
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Slezak A, Chang K, Hossainy S, Mansurov A, Rowan SJ, Hubbell JA, Guler MO. Therapeutic synthetic and natural materials for immunoengineering. Chem Soc Rev 2024; 53:1789-1822. [PMID: 38170619 DOI: 10.1039/d3cs00805c] [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: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Immunoengineering is a rapidly evolving field that has been driving innovations in manipulating immune system for new treatment tools and methods. The need for materials for immunoengineering applications has gained significant attention in recent years due to the growing demand for effective therapies that can target and regulate the immune system. Biologics and biomaterials are emerging as promising tools for controlling immune responses, and a wide variety of materials, including proteins, polymers, nanoparticles, and hydrogels, are being developed for this purpose. In this review article, we explore the different types of materials used in immunoengineering applications, their properties and design principles, and highlight the latest therapeutic materials advancements. Recent works in adjuvants, vaccines, immune tolerance, immunotherapy, and tissue models for immunoengineering studies are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Slezak
- The Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA.
| | - Kevin Chang
- The Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA.
| | - Samir Hossainy
- The Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA.
| | - Aslan Mansurov
- The Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA.
| | - Stuart J Rowan
- The Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA.
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Jeffrey A Hubbell
- The Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA.
| | - Mustafa O Guler
- The Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA.
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4
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Ho M, Price HCW, Evans TS, O'Sullivan E. Dynamics of technology emergence in innovation networks. Sci Rep 2024; 14:1411. [PMID: 38228669 PMCID: PMC10791630 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-50280-4] [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: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024] Open
Abstract
To create the next innovative product, participants in science need to understand which existing technologies can be combined, what new science must be discovered, and what new technologies must be invented. Knowledge of these often arrives by means of expert consensus or popularity metrics, masking key information on how intellectual efforts accumulate into technological progress. To address this shortcoming, we first present a method to establish a mathematical link between technological evolution and complex networks: a path of events that narrates innovation bottlenecks. Next, we quantify the position and proximity of documents to these innovation paths. The result is an innovation network that more exhaustively captures deterministic knowledge flows with respect to a marketed innovative product. Our dataset, containing over three million biomedical citations, demonstrates the possibility of quantifying the accumulation, speed, and division of labour in innovation over a sixty-year time horizon. The significance of this study includes the (i) use of a purpose-generated dataset showing causal paths from research to development to product; (ii) analysis of the innovation process as a directed acyclic graph; (iii) comparison between calendar time and network time; (iv) ordering of science funders along technology lifecycles; (v) quantification of innovative activities' importance to an innovative outcome; and (vi) integration of publication, patent, clinical trial, regulatory data to study innovation holistically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Ho
- Centre for Science Technology and Innovation Policy, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB3 0HU, UK.
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB3 0HU, UK.
| | - Henry C W Price
- Centre for Complexity Science, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, UK
- Theoretical Physics Group, Department of Physics, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Tim S Evans
- Centre for Complexity Science, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, UK
- Theoretical Physics Group, Department of Physics, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Eoin O'Sullivan
- Centre for Science Technology and Innovation Policy, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB3 0HU, UK
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB3 0HU, UK
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5
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Wei L, Dong C, Zhu W, Wang BZ. mRNA Vaccine Nanoplatforms and Innate Immunity. Viruses 2024; 16:120. [PMID: 38257820 PMCID: PMC10820759 DOI: 10.3390/v16010120] [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: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
mRNA-based vaccine technology has been significantly developed and enhanced, particularly highlighted by the authorization of mRNA vaccines for addressing the COVID-19 pandemic. Various biomaterials are developed in nano-scales and applied as mRNA vaccine delivery platforms. However, how these mRNA nanoplatforms influence immune responses has not been thoroughly studied. Hence, we have reviewed the current understanding of various mRNA vaccine platforms. We discussed the possible pathways through which these platforms moderate the host's innate immunity and contribute to the development of adaptive immunity. We shed light on their development in reducing biotoxicity and enhancing antigen delivery efficiency. Beyond the built-in adjuvanticity of mRNA vaccines, we propose that supplementary adjuvants may be required to fine-tune and precisely control innate immunity and subsequent adaptive immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Bao-Zhong Wang
- Center for Inflammation, Immunity & Infection, Institute for Biomedical Sciences, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA; (L.W.); (C.D.); (W.Z.)
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6
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Wang AYL, Chang YC, Chen KH, Loh CYY. Potential Application of Modified mRNA in Cardiac Regeneration. Cell Transplant 2024; 33:9636897241248956. [PMID: 38715279 PMCID: PMC11080755 DOI: 10.1177/09636897241248956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Heart failure remains the leading cause of human death worldwide. After a heart attack, the formation of scar tissue due to the massive death of cardiomyocytes leads to heart failure and sudden death in most cases. In addition, the regenerative ability of the adult heart is limited after injury, partly due to cell-cycle arrest in cardiomyocytes. In the current post-COVID-19 era, urgently authorized modified mRNA (modRNA) vaccines have been widely used to prevent severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. Therefore, modRNA-based protein replacement may act as an alternative strategy for improving heart disease. It is a safe, effective, transient, low-immunogenic, and integration-free strategy for in vivo protein expression, in addition to recombinant protein and stem-cell regenerative therapies. In this review, we provide a summary of various cardiac factors that have been utilized with the modRNA method to enhance cardiovascular regeneration, cardiomyocyte proliferation, fibrosis inhibition, and apoptosis inhibition. We further discuss other cardiac factors, modRNA delivery methods, and injection methods using the modRNA approach to explore their application potential in heart disease. Factors for promoting cardiomyocyte proliferation such as a cocktail of three genes comprising FoxM1, Id1, and Jnk3-shRNA (FIJs), gp130, and melatonin have potential to be applied in the modRNA approach. We also discuss the current challenges with respect to modRNA-based cardiac regenerative medicine that need to be overcome to apply this approach to heart disease. This review provides a short description for investigators interested in the development of alternative cardiac regenerative medicines using the modRNA platform.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aline Yen Ling Wang
- Center for Vascularized Composite Allotransplantation, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Yun-Ching Chang
- Department of Health Industry Technology Management, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Kuan-Hung Chen
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
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7
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Kaushal A. Innate immune regulations and various siRNA modalities. Drug Deliv Transl Res 2023; 13:2704-2718. [PMID: 37219704 PMCID: PMC10204684 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-023-01361-4] [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] [Accepted: 04/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
RNAi therapeutics are designed to produce the precise silencing effects against the gene-linked diseases which were known to be untreatable in the past. The highly immunostimulatory nature of siRNA enhances the off-target effects and easily get attacked by nucleases; hence, their modulation is essentially required for accurate alterations to be made in the structures to intensify the pharmacological attributes. The phosphonate modifications act as shield against undue phosphorylation effects, and the molecular changes in ribose sugar lowers the level of immunogenicity and increases the binding efficacy. When bases are substituted with virtual/or pseudo bases, they eventually reduce the off-target effects. These changes modulate the nucleic acid sensors and control the hyper-activation of innate immune response. Various modification designs based on STC (universal pattern), ESC, ESC + (advanced patterns) and disubstrate have been explored to silence the gene expression of various diseases e.g., hepatitis, HIV, influenza, RSV, CNV and acute kidney injury. This review describes the various innovative siRNA therapeutics and their implications on the developed immune regulations to silence the disease effects. siRNA causes the silencing effects through RISC processing. The innate immune signalling is induced by both TLR-dependent and TLR-independent pathways. Modification chemistries are utilized to modulate the immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anju Kaushal
- New Zealand Organization for Quality-Member, Auckland, New Zealand.
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8
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Kim S, Kang YG, Kim J, Dua P, Lee DK. Development of Long Asymmetric siRNA Structure for Target Gene Silencing and Immune Stimulation in Mammalian Cells. Nucleic Acid Ther 2023; 33:329-337. [PMID: 37797162 DOI: 10.1089/nat.2023.0003] [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: 10/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Post-transcriptional regulation of transcript abundances by RNA interference (RNAi) is a widely conserved regulatory mechanism to control cellular processes. We previously introduced an alternative siRNA structure called asymmetric siRNA (asiRNA), and showed that asiRNA exhibits comparable gene-silencing efficiency with reduced off-target effects compared with conventional siRNAs. However, to what extent the length of the guide strand affects the gene-silencing efficiency of asiRNAs is still elusive. In this study, we analyzed in detail the gene-silencing ability of asiRNAs along the guide strand length and immunostimulatory capacity of asiRNAs. We generated asiRNAs containing various guide strand lengths ranging from 25 to 29 nt, called long asiRNA (lasiRNA). We found that the gene-silencing activity of lasiRNAs decreased as the length of the guide strand increased. Nonetheless, the 3'-end overhangs that are complementary to the target gene have higher efficiency for gene silencing compared with mismatched overhangs. In addition, we found that the silencing efficiency of lasiRNAs correlates with their Ago2-binding affinity. Finally, replacing the mismatched overhang with a TLR7- or TLR9-associated immune response motif induced a toll-like receptor (TLR)-specific immune response and retained gene-silencing activity. Our findings demonstrate that lasiRNA structures can be tailored to function as bifunctional siRNA, which trigger a specific immune response combined with target gene silencing. Taken together, we anticipate that our findings provide a road map for the subsequent development of immune-stimulating lasiRNA, which bear the potential to be applied for therapeutic benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soonkap Kim
- Department of Chemistry, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, Korea
| | - Young Gyu Kang
- Department of Chemistry, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, Korea
- Department of Platform Technology Unit2, OliX Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Suwon, Korea
| | - Jaejin Kim
- Department of Chemistry, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, Korea
| | - Pooja Dua
- Department of Platform Technology Unit2, OliX Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Suwon, Korea
| | - Dong-Ki Lee
- Department of Chemistry, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, Korea
- Department of Platform Technology Unit2, OliX Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Suwon, Korea
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9
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Griazeva ED, Fedoseeva DM, Radion EI, Ershov PV, Meshkov IO, Semyanihina AV, Makarova AS, Makarov VV, Yudin VS, Keskinov AA, Kraevoy SA. Current Approaches to Epigenetic Therapy. EPIGENOMES 2023; 7:23. [PMID: 37873808 PMCID: PMC10594535 DOI: 10.3390/epigenomes7040023] [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: 08/24/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic therapy is a promising tool for the treatment of a wide range of diseases. Several fundamental epigenetic approaches have been proposed. Firstly, the use of small molecules as epigenetic effectors, as the most developed pharmacological method, has contributed to the introduction of a number of drugs into clinical practice. Secondly, various innovative epigenetic approaches based on dCas9 and the use of small non-coding RNAs as therapeutic agents are also under extensive research. In this review, we present the current state of research in the field of epigenetic therapy, considering the prospects for its application and possible limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ekaterina D. Griazeva
- Federal State Budgetary Institution, Centre for Strategic Planning and Management of Biomedical Health Risks of the Federal Medical Biological Agency, Pogodinskaya Str., 10, Building 1, Moscow 119121, Russia
| | - Daria M. Fedoseeva
- Federal State Budgetary Institution, Centre for Strategic Planning and Management of Biomedical Health Risks of the Federal Medical Biological Agency, Pogodinskaya Str., 10, Building 1, Moscow 119121, Russia
| | - Elizaveta I. Radion
- Federal State Budgetary Institution, Centre for Strategic Planning and Management of Biomedical Health Risks of the Federal Medical Biological Agency, Pogodinskaya Str., 10, Building 1, Moscow 119121, Russia
| | - Pavel V. Ershov
- Federal State Budgetary Institution, Centre for Strategic Planning and Management of Biomedical Health Risks of the Federal Medical Biological Agency, Pogodinskaya Str., 10, Building 1, Moscow 119121, Russia
| | - Ivan O. Meshkov
- Federal State Budgetary Institution, Centre for Strategic Planning and Management of Biomedical Health Risks of the Federal Medical Biological Agency, Pogodinskaya Str., 10, Building 1, Moscow 119121, Russia
| | - Alexandra V. Semyanihina
- Federal State Budgetary Institution, Centre for Strategic Planning and Management of Biomedical Health Risks of the Federal Medical Biological Agency, Pogodinskaya Str., 10, Building 1, Moscow 119121, Russia
- Federal State Budgetary Institution “N.N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology” of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation (N.N. Blokhin NMRCO), Kashirskoe Shosse, 24, Moscow 115478, Russia
- Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution, Research Centre for Medical Genetics, Moskvorechye, 1, Moscow 115522, Russia
| | - Anna S. Makarova
- Federal State Budgetary Institution, Centre for Strategic Planning and Management of Biomedical Health Risks of the Federal Medical Biological Agency, Pogodinskaya Str., 10, Building 1, Moscow 119121, Russia
| | - Valentin V. Makarov
- Federal State Budgetary Institution, Centre for Strategic Planning and Management of Biomedical Health Risks of the Federal Medical Biological Agency, Pogodinskaya Str., 10, Building 1, Moscow 119121, Russia
| | - Vladimir S. Yudin
- Federal State Budgetary Institution, Centre for Strategic Planning and Management of Biomedical Health Risks of the Federal Medical Biological Agency, Pogodinskaya Str., 10, Building 1, Moscow 119121, Russia
| | - Anton A. Keskinov
- Federal State Budgetary Institution, Centre for Strategic Planning and Management of Biomedical Health Risks of the Federal Medical Biological Agency, Pogodinskaya Str., 10, Building 1, Moscow 119121, Russia
| | - Sergey A. Kraevoy
- Federal State Budgetary Institution, Centre for Strategic Planning and Management of Biomedical Health Risks of the Federal Medical Biological Agency, Pogodinskaya Str., 10, Building 1, Moscow 119121, Russia
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10
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McKenzie RE, Minnell JJ, Ganley M, Painter GF, Draper SL. mRNA Synthesis and Encapsulation in Ionizable Lipid Nanoparticles. Curr Protoc 2023; 3:e898. [PMID: 37747354 DOI: 10.1002/cpz1.898] [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] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
mRNA vaccines have recently generated significant interest due to their success during the COVID-19 pandemic. Their success is due to advances in mRNA design and encapsulation into ionizable lipid nanoparticles (iLNPs). This has highlighted the potential for the use of mRNA-iLNPs in other settings such as cancer, gene therapy, or vaccines for different infectious diseases. Here, we describe the production of mRNA-iLNPs using commercially available reagents that are suitable for use as vaccines and therapeutics. This article contains detailed protocols for the synthesis of mRNA by in vitro transcription with enzymatic capping and tailing and the encapsulation of the mRNA into iLNPs using the ionizable lipid DLin-MC3-DMA. DLin-MC3-DMA is often used as a benchmark for new formulations and provides an efficient delivery vehicle for screening mRNA design. The protocol also describes how the formulation can be adapted to other lipids. Finally, a stepwise methodology is presented for the characterization and quality control of mRNA-iLNPs, including measuring mRNA concentration and encapsulation efficiency, particle size, and zeta potential. © 2023 The Authors. Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC. Basic Protocol 1: Synthesis of mRNA by in vitro transcription and enzymatic capping and tailing Basic Protocol 2: Encapsulation of mRNA into ionizable lipid nanoparticles Alternate Protocol: Small-scale encapsulation of mRNA using preformed vesicles Basic Protocol 3: Characterization and quality control of mRNA ionizable lipid nanoparticles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Elizabeth McKenzie
- Malaghan Institute of Medical Research, Wellington, New Zealand
- Hugh Green Cytometry Centre, Malaghan Institute of Medical Research, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Jordan James Minnell
- Malaghan Institute of Medical Research, Wellington, New Zealand
- Ferrier Research Institute, Victoria University of Wellington, Lower Hutt, New Zealand
| | - Mitch Ganley
- Ferrier Research Institute, Victoria University of Wellington, Lower Hutt, New Zealand
- Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Gavin Frank Painter
- Ferrier Research Institute, Victoria University of Wellington, Lower Hutt, New Zealand
- Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Sarah Louise Draper
- Ferrier Research Institute, Victoria University of Wellington, Lower Hutt, New Zealand
- Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, Auckland, New Zealand
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11
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Wei HH, Zheng L, Wang Z. mRNA therapeutics: New vaccination and beyond. FUNDAMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 3:749-759. [PMID: 38933291 PMCID: PMC10017382 DOI: 10.1016/j.fmre.2023.02.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The idea of mRNA therapy had been conceived for decades before it came into reality during the Covid-19 pandemic. The mRNA vaccine emerges as a powerful and general tool against new viral infections, largely due to its versatility and rapid development. In addition to prophylactic vaccines, mRNA technology also offers great promise for new applications as a versatile drug modality. However, realizing the conceptual potential faces considerable challenges, such as minimal immune stimulation, high and long-term expression, and efficient delivery to target cells and tissues. Here we review the applications of mRNA-based therapeutics, with emphasis on the innovative design and future challenges/solutions. In addition, we also discuss the next generation of mRNA therapy, including circular mRNA and self-amplifying RNAs. We aim to provide a conceptual overview and outlook on mRNA therapeutics beyond prophylactic vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan-Huan Wei
- Bio-med Big Data Center, CAS Key Laboratory of Computational Biology, CAS Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, Shanghai 200032, China
| | | | - Zefeng Wang
- Bio-med Big Data Center, CAS Key Laboratory of Computational Biology, CAS Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, Shanghai 200032, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Beijing 100049, China
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12
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Huang LA, Lin C, Yang L. Plumbing mysterious RNAs in "dark genome" for the conquest of human diseases. Mol Ther 2023; 31:1577-1595. [PMID: 37165619 PMCID: PMC10278048 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2023.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Next-generation sequencing has revealed that less than 2% of transcribed genes are translated into proteins, with a large portion transcribed into noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs). Among these, long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) represent the largest group and are pervasively transcribed throughout the genome. Dysfunctions in lncRNAs have been found in various diseases, highlighting their potential as therapeutic, diagnostic, and prognostic targets. However, challenges, such as unknown molecular mechanisms and nonspecific immune responses, and issues of drug specificity and delivery present obstacles in translating lncRNAs into clinical applications. In this review, we summarize recent publications that have explored lncRNA functions in human diseases. We also discuss challenges and future directions for developing lncRNA treatments, aiming to bridge the gap between functional studies and clinical potential and inspire further exploration in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa A Huang
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; The Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Chunru Lin
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; The Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
| | - Liuqing Yang
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Center for RNA Interference and Non-Coding RNAs, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; The Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
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13
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Sufian MA, Ilies MA. Lipid-based nucleic acid therapeutics with in vivo efficacy. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. NANOMEDICINE AND NANOBIOTECHNOLOGY 2023; 15:e1856. [PMID: 36180107 PMCID: PMC10023279 DOI: 10.1002/wnan.1856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Revised: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 03/09/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic vectors for therapeutic nucleic acid delivery are currently competing significantly with their viral counter parts due to their reduced immunogenicity, large payload capacity, and ease of manufacture under GMP-compliant norms. The approval of Onpattro, a lipid-based siRNA therapeutic, and the proven clinical success of two lipid-based COVID-19 vaccines from Pfizer-BioNTech, and Moderna heralded the specific advantages of lipid-based systems among all other synthetic nucleic acid carriers. Lipid-based systems with diverse payloads-plasmid DNA (pDNA), antisense oligonucleotide (ASO), small interfering RNA (siRNA), microRNA (miRNA), small activating RNA (saRNA), and messenger RNA (mRNA)-are now becoming a mature technology, with growing impact in the clinic. Research over four decades identified the key factors determining the therapeutic success of these multi-component systems. Here, we discuss the main nucleic acid-based technologies, presenting their mechanism of action, delivery barriers facing them, the structural properties of the payload as well as the component lipids that regulate physicochemical properties, pharmacokinetics and biodistribution, efficacy, and toxicity of the resultant nanoparticles. We further detail on the formulation parameters, evolution of the manufacturing techniques that generate reproducible and scalable outputs, and key manufacturing aspects that enable control over physicochemical properties of the resultant particles. Preclinical applications of some of these formulations that were successfully translated from in vitro studies to animal models are subsequently discussed. Finally, clinical success and failure of these systems starting from 1993 to present are highlighted, in a holistic literature review focused on lipid-based nucleic acid delivery systems. This article is categorized under: Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Emerging Technologies Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Nanomedicine for Oncologic Disease Toxicology and Regulatory Issues in Nanomedicine > Toxicology of Nanomaterials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Abu Sufian
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Moulder Center for Drug Discovery Research, School of Pharmacy, Temple University, 3307 North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
| | - Marc A. Ilies
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Moulder Center for Drug Discovery Research, School of Pharmacy, Temple University, 3307 North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
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14
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Lam AK, Roshan R, Miley W, Labo N, Zhen J, Kurland AP, Cheng C, Huang H, Teng PL, Harelson C, Gong D, Tam YK, Radu CG, Epeldegui M, Johnson JR, Zhou ZH, Whitby D, Wu TT. Immunization of Mice with Virus-Like Vesicles of Kaposi Sarcoma-Associated Herpesvirus Reveals a Role for Antibodies Targeting ORF4 in Activating Complement-Mediated Neutralization. J Virol 2023; 97:e0160022. [PMID: 36757205 PMCID: PMC9972917 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.01600-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Infection by Kaposi sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) can cause severe consequences, such as cancers and lymphoproliferative diseases. Whole inactivated viruses (WIV) with chemically destroyed genetic materials have been used as antigens in several licensed vaccines. During KSHV productive replication, virus-like vesicles (VLVs) that lack capsids and viral genomes are generated along with virions. Here, we investigated the immunogenicity of KSHV VLVs produced from a viral mutant that was defective in capsid formation and DNA packaging. Mice immunized with adjuvanted VLVs generated KSHV-specific T cell and antibody responses. Neutralization of KSHV infection by the VLV immune serum was low but was markedly enhanced in the presence of the complement system. Complement-enhanced neutralization and complement deposition on KSHV-infected cells was dependent on antibodies targeting viral open reading frame 4 (ORF4). However, limited complement-mediated enhancement was detected in the sera of a small cohort of KSHV-infected humans which contained few neutralizing antibodies. Therefore, vaccination that induces antibody effector functions can potentially improve infection-induced humoral immunity. Overall, our study highlights a potential benefit of engaging complement-mediated antibody functions in future KSHV vaccine development. IMPORTANCE KSHV is a virus that can lead to cancer after infection. A vaccine that prevents KSHV infection or transmission would be helpful in preventing the development of these cancers. We investigated KSHV VLV as an immunogen for vaccination. We determined that antibodies targeting the viral protein ORF4 induced by VLV immunization could engage the complement system and neutralize viral infection. However, ORF4-specific antibodies were seldom detected in the sera of KSHV-infected humans. Moreover, these human sera did not potently trigger complement-mediated neutralization, indicating an improvement that immunization can confer. Our study suggests a new antibody-mediated mechanism to control KSHV infection and underscores the benefit of activating the complement system in a future KSHV vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex K. Lam
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Romin Roshan
- AIDS and Cancer Virus Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, Maryland, USA
| | - Wendell Miley
- AIDS and Cancer Virus Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, Maryland, USA
| | - Nazzarena Labo
- AIDS and Cancer Virus Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, Maryland, USA
| | - James Zhen
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Andrew P. Kurland
- Department of Microbiology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Celine Cheng
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Haigen Huang
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Pu-Lin Teng
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Claire Harelson
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Danyang Gong
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Ying K. Tam
- Acuitas Therapeutics, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Caius G. Radu
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Marta Epeldegui
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Jeffrey R. Johnson
- Department of Microbiology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Z. Hong Zhou
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Denise Whitby
- AIDS and Cancer Virus Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, Maryland, USA
| | - Ting-Ting Wu
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
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15
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Sun H, Zhang Y, Wang G, Yang W, Xu Y. mRNA-Based Therapeutics in Cancer Treatment. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15020622. [PMID: 36839944 PMCID: PMC9964383 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15020622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2023] [Revised: 01/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the past two decades, significant technological innovations have led to messenger RNA (mRNA) becoming a promising option for developing prophylactic and therapeutic vaccines, protein replacement therapies, and genome engineering. The success of the two COVID-19 mRNA vaccines has sparked new enthusiasm for other medical applications, particularly in cancer treatment. In vitro-transcribed (IVT) mRNAs are structurally designed to resemble naturally occurring mature mRNA. Delivery of IVT mRNA via delivery platforms such as lipid nanoparticles allows host cells to produce many copies of encoded proteins, which can serve as antigens to stimulate immune responses or as additional beneficial proteins for supplements. mRNA-based cancer therapeutics include mRNA cancer vaccines, mRNA encoding cytokines, chimeric antigen receptors, tumor suppressors, and other combination therapies. To better understand the current development and research status of mRNA therapies for cancer treatment, this review focused on the molecular design, delivery systems, and clinical indications of mRNA therapies in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Sun
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Tumor Microenvironment and Inflammation, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Tumor Microenvironment and Inflammation, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Ge Wang
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial & Head and Neck Oncology, National Center of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Disease, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Wen Yang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Tumor Microenvironment and Inflammation, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Yingjie Xu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Tumor Microenvironment and Inflammation, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
- Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of Chinese Ministry of Education, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
- Correspondence:
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16
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Rzymski P, Szuster-Ciesielska A, Dzieciątkowski T, Gwenzi W, Fal A. mRNA vaccines: The future of prevention of viral infections? J Med Virol 2023; 95:e28572. [PMID: 36762592 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.28572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
Messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines against COVID-19 are the first authorized biological preparations developed using this platform. During the pandemic, their administration has been proven to be a life-saving intervention. Here, we review the main advantages of using mRNA vaccines, identify further technological challenges to be met during the development of the mRNA platform, and provide an update on the clinical progress on leading mRNA vaccine candidates against different viruses that include influenza viruses, human immunodeficiency virus 1, respiratory syncytial virus, Nipah virus, Zika virus, human cytomegalovirus, and Epstein-Barr virus. The prospects and challenges of manufacturing mRNA vaccines in low-income countries are also discussed. The ongoing interest and research in mRNA technology are likely to overcome some existing challenges for this technology (e.g., related to storage conditions and immunogenicity of some components of lipid nanoparticles) and enhance the portfolio of vaccines against diseases for which classical formulations are already authorized. It may also open novel pathways of protection against infections and their consequences for which no safe and efficient immunization methods are currently available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piotr Rzymski
- Department of Environmental Medicine, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland.,Integrated Science Association (ISA), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Poznań, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Szuster-Ciesielska
- Department of Virology and Immunology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Lublin, Poland
| | | | - Willis Gwenzi
- Alexander von Humboldt Fellow & Guest Professor, Grassland Science and Renewable Plant Resources, Faculty of Organic Agricultural Sciences, Universität Kassel, Witzenhausen, Germany.,Alexander von Humboldt Fellow & Guest Professor, Leibniz Institute for Agricultural Engineering and Bioeconomy (ATB), Potsdam, Germany
| | - Andrzej Fal
- Collegium Medicum, Warsaw Faculty of Medicine, Cardinal Stefan Wyszynski University, Warsaw, Poland.,Department of Public Health, Wrocław Medical University, Wrocław, Poland
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17
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Goyenvalle A, Jimenez-Mallebrera C, van Roon W, Sewing S, Krieg AM, Arechavala-Gomeza V, Andersson P. Considerations in the Preclinical Assessment of the Safety of Antisense Oligonucleotides. Nucleic Acid Ther 2023; 33:1-16. [PMID: 36579950 PMCID: PMC9940817 DOI: 10.1089/nat.2022.0061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The nucleic acid therapeutics field has made tremendous progress in the past decades. Continuous advances in chemistry and design have led to many successful clinical applications, eliciting even more interest from researchers including both academic groups and drug development companies. Many preclinical studies in the field focus on improving the delivery of antisense oligonucleotide drugs (ONDs) and/or assessing their efficacy in target tissues, often neglecting the evaluation of toxicity, at least in early phases of development. A series of consensus recommendations regarding regulatory considerations and expectations have been generated by the Oligonucleotide Safety Working Group and the Japanese Research Working Group for the International Council for Harmonisation of Technical Requirements for Pharmaceuticals for Human Use S6 and Related Issues (WGS6) in several white papers. However, safety aspects should also be kept in sight in earlier phases while screening and designing OND to avoid subsequent failure in the development phase. Experts and members of the network "DARTER," a COST Action funded by the Cooperation in Science and Technology of the EU, have utilized their collective experience working with OND, as well as their insights into OND-mediated toxicities, to generate a series of consensus recommendations to assess OND toxicity in early stages of preclinical research. In the past few years, several publications have described predictive assays, which can be used to assess OND-mediated toxicity in vitro or ex vivo to filter out potential toxic candidates before moving to in vivo phases of preclinical development, that is, animal toxicity studies. These assays also have the potential to provide translational insight since they allow a safety evaluation in human in vitro systems. Yet, small preliminary in vivo studies should also be considered to complement this early assessment. In this study, we summarize the state of the art and provide guidelines and recommendations on the different tests available for these early stage preclinical assessments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurélie Goyenvalle
- Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, Inserm, END-ICAP, Versailles, France.,Address correspondence to: Aurélie Goyenvalle, PhD, Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, Inserm, END-ICAP, Versailles 78000, France
| | - Cecilia Jimenez-Mallebrera
- Laboratorio de Investigación Aplicada en Enfermedades Neuromusculares, Unidad de Patología Neuromuscular, Servicio de Neuropediatría, Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Llobregat, Spain.,Centro de Investigaciones Biomédicas en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Madrid, Spain.,Departamento de Genética, Microbiología y Estadística, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Willeke van Roon
- Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Sabine Sewing
- Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Arthur M. Krieg
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Virginia Arechavala-Gomeza
- Neuromuscular Disorders, Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Spain.,Ikerbasque, Basque Foundation for Science, Bilbao, Spain
| | - Patrik Andersson
- Safety Innovation, Safety Sciences, Clinical Pharmacology and Safety Sciences, R&D, AstraZeneca, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Address correspondence to: Patrik Andersson, PhD, Safety Innovation, Safety Sciences, Clinical Pharmacology and Safety Sciences, R&D, AstraZeneca, Pepparedsleden 1, Mölndal, Gothenburg 431 83, Sweden
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18
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Singleton KL, Joffe A, Leitner WW. Review: Current trends, challenges, and success stories in adjuvant research. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1105655. [PMID: 36742311 PMCID: PMC9892189 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1105655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Vaccine adjuvant research is being fueled and driven by progress in the field of innate immunity that has significantly advanced in the past two decades with the discovery of countless innate immune receptors and innate immune pathways. Receptors for pathogen-associated molecules (PAMPs) or host-derived, danger-associated molecules (DAMPs), as well as molecules in the signaling pathways used by such receptors, are a rich source of potential targets for agonists that enable the tuning of innate immune responses in an unprecedented manner. Targeted modulation of immune responses is achieved not only through the choice of immunostimulator - or select combinations of adjuvants - but also through formulation and systematic modifications of the chemical structure of immunostimulatory molecules. The use of medium and high-throughput screening methods for finding immunostimulators has further accelerated the identification of promising novel adjuvants. However, despite the progress that has been made in finding new adjuvants through systematic screening campaigns, the process is far from perfect. A major bottleneck that significantly slows the process of turning confirmed or putative innate immune receptor agonists into vaccine adjuvants continues to be the lack of defined in vitro correlates of in vivo adjuvanticity. This brief review discusses recent developments, exciting trends, and notable successes in the adjuvant research field, albeit acknowledging challenges and areas for improvement.
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19
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Vavilis T, Stamoula E, Ainatzoglou A, Sachinidis A, Lamprinou M, Dardalas I, Vizirianakis IS. mRNA in the Context of Protein Replacement Therapy. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15010166. [PMID: 36678793 PMCID: PMC9866414 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15010166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Protein replacement therapy is an umbrella term used for medical treatments that aim to substitute or replenish specific protein deficiencies that result either from the protein being absent or non-functional due to mutations in affected patients. Traditionally, such an approach requires a well characterized but arduous and expensive protein production procedure that employs in vitro expression and translation of the pharmaceutical protein in host cells, followed by extensive purification steps. In the wake of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, mRNA-based pharmaceuticals were recruited to achieve rapid in vivo production of antigens, proving that the in vivo translation of exogenously administered mRNA is nowadays a viable therapeutic option. In addition, the urgency of the situation and worldwide demand for mRNA-based medicine has led to an evolution in relevant technologies, such as in vitro transcription and nanolipid carriers. In this review, we present preclinical and clinical applications of mRNA as a tool for protein replacement therapy, alongside with information pertaining to the manufacture of modified mRNA through in vitro transcription, carriers employed for its intracellular delivery and critical quality attributes pertaining to the finished product.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theofanis Vavilis
- Laboratory of Biology and Genetics, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Department of Dentistry, European University Cyprus, Nicosia 2404, Cyprus
- Correspondence:
| | - Eleni Stamoula
- Centre of Systems Biology, Department of Biotechnology, Biomedical Research Foundation of the Academy of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Alexandra Ainatzoglou
- Centre of Systems Biology, Department of Biotechnology, Biomedical Research Foundation of the Academy of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Athanasios Sachinidis
- 4th Department of Internal Medicine, Hippokration General Hospital, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54642 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Malamatenia Lamprinou
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Ioannis Dardalas
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Ioannis S. Vizirianakis
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Department of Life & Health Sciences, School of Sciences and Engineering, University of Nicosia, Nicosia 1700, Cyprus
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20
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Liu A, Wang X. The Pivotal Role of Chemical Modifications in mRNA Therapeutics. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:901510. [PMID: 35912117 PMCID: PMC9326091 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.901510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
After over a decade of development, mRNA has recently matured into a potent modality for therapeutics. The advantages of mRNA therapeutics, including their rapid development and scalability, have been highlighted due to the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, in which the first two clinically approved mRNA vaccines have been spotlighted. These vaccines, as well as multiple other mRNA therapeutic candidates, are modified to modulate their immunogenicity, stability, and translational efficiency. Despite the importance of mRNA modifications for harnessing the full efficacy of mRNA drugs, the full breadth of potential modifications has yet to be explored clinically. In this review, we survey the field of mRNA modifications, highlighting their ability to tune the properties of mRNAs. These include cap and tail modifications, nucleoside substitutions, and chimeric mRNAs, each of which represents a component of mRNA that can be exploited for modification. Additionally, we cover clinical and preclinical trials of the modified mRNA platform not only to illustrate the promise of modified mRNAs but also to call attention to the room for diversifying future therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert Liu
- Department of Chemistry, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, United States
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - Xiao Wang
- Department of Chemistry, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, United States
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, United States
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21
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Gómez-Aguado I, Rodríguez-Castejón J, Beraza-Millor M, Rodríguez-Gascón A, Del Pozo-Rodríguez A, Solinís MÁ. mRNA delivery technologies: Toward clinical translation. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2022; 372:207-293. [PMID: 36064265 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ircmb.2022.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Messenger RNA (mRNA)-therapies have recently taken a huge step toward clinic thanks to the first mRNA-based medicinal products marketed. mRNA features for clinical purposes are improved by chemical modifications, but the inclusion in a delivery system is a regular requirement. mRNA nanomedicines must be designed for the specific therapeutic purpose, protecting the nucleic acid and facilitating the overcoming of biological barriers. Polymers, polypeptides, and cationic lipids are the main used materials to design mRNA delivery systems. Among them, lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) are the most advanced ones, and currently they are at the forefront of preclinical and clinical evaluation in several fields, including immunotherapy (against infectious diseases and cancer), protein replacement, gene editing and regenerative medicine. This chapter includes an overview on mRNA delivery technologies, with special interest in LNPs, and the most recent advances in their clinical application. Liposomes are the mRNA delivery technology with the highest clinical translation among LNPs, whereas the first clinical trial of a therapeutic mRNA formulated in exosomes has been recently approved for protein replacement therapy. The first mRNA products approved by the regulatory agencies worldwide are LNP-based mRNA vaccines against viral infections, specifically against the 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19). The clinical translation of mRNA-therapies for cancer is mainly focused on three strategies: anti-cancer vaccination by means of delivering cancer antigens or acting as an adjuvant, mRNA-engineered chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) and T-cell receptors (TCRs), and expression of antibodies and immunomodulators. Cancer immunotherapy and, more recently, COVID-19 vaccines spearhead the advance of mRNA clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Itziar Gómez-Aguado
- Pharmacokinetic, Nanotechnology and Gene Therapy Group (PharmaNanoGene), Faculty of Pharmacy, Centro de investigación Lascaray ikergunea, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; Bioaraba, Microbiology, Infectious Disease, Antimicrobial Agents, and Gene Therapy, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Julen Rodríguez-Castejón
- Pharmacokinetic, Nanotechnology and Gene Therapy Group (PharmaNanoGene), Faculty of Pharmacy, Centro de investigación Lascaray ikergunea, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; Bioaraba, Microbiology, Infectious Disease, Antimicrobial Agents, and Gene Therapy, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Marina Beraza-Millor
- Pharmacokinetic, Nanotechnology and Gene Therapy Group (PharmaNanoGene), Faculty of Pharmacy, Centro de investigación Lascaray ikergunea, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; Bioaraba, Microbiology, Infectious Disease, Antimicrobial Agents, and Gene Therapy, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Alicia Rodríguez-Gascón
- Pharmacokinetic, Nanotechnology and Gene Therapy Group (PharmaNanoGene), Faculty of Pharmacy, Centro de investigación Lascaray ikergunea, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; Bioaraba, Microbiology, Infectious Disease, Antimicrobial Agents, and Gene Therapy, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Ana Del Pozo-Rodríguez
- Pharmacokinetic, Nanotechnology and Gene Therapy Group (PharmaNanoGene), Faculty of Pharmacy, Centro de investigación Lascaray ikergunea, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; Bioaraba, Microbiology, Infectious Disease, Antimicrobial Agents, and Gene Therapy, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - María Ángeles Solinís
- Pharmacokinetic, Nanotechnology and Gene Therapy Group (PharmaNanoGene), Faculty of Pharmacy, Centro de investigación Lascaray ikergunea, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; Bioaraba, Microbiology, Infectious Disease, Antimicrobial Agents, and Gene Therapy, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain.
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22
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Paul A, Muralidharan A, Biswas A, Venkatesh Kamath B, Joseph A, Alex AT. siRNA Therapeutics and its Challenges: Recent Advances in Effective Delivery for Cancer Therapy. OPENNANO 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.onano.2022.100063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
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23
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Zhao X, Chen D, Li X, Griffith L, Chang J, An P, Guo JT. Interferon Control of Human Coronavirus Infection and Viral Evasion: Mechanistic Insights and Implications for Antiviral Drug and Vaccine Development. J Mol Biol 2022; 434:167438. [PMID: 34990653 PMCID: PMC8721920 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2021.167438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Revised: 12/24/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Recognition of viral infections by various pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) activates an inflammatory cytokine response that inhibits viral replication and orchestrates the activation of adaptive immune responses to control the viral infection. The broadly active innate immune response puts a strong selective pressure on viruses and drives the selection of variants with increased capabilities to subvert the induction and function of antiviral cytokines. This revolutionary process dynamically shapes the host ranges, cell tropism and pathogenesis of viruses. Recent studies on the innate immune responses to the infection of human coronaviruses (HCoV), particularly SARS-CoV-2, revealed that HCoV infections can be sensed by endosomal toll-like receptors and/or cytoplasmic RIG-I-like receptors in various cell types. However, the profiles of inflammatory cytokines and transcriptome response induced by a specific HCoV are usually cell type specific and determined by the virus-specific mechanisms of subverting the induction and function of interferons and inflammatory cytokines as well as the genetic trait of the host genes of innate immune pathways. We review herein the recent literatures on the innate immune responses and their roles in the pathogenesis of HCoV infections with emphasis on the pathobiological roles and therapeutic effects of type I interferons in HCoV infections and their antiviral mechanisms. The knowledge on the mechanism of innate immune control of HCoV infections and viral evasions should facilitate the development of therapeutics for induction of immune resolution of HCoV infections and vaccines for efficient control of COVID-19 pandemics and other HCoV infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuesen Zhao
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Emerging Infectious Diseases, Institute of Infectious Diseases, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100015, China; Beijing Institute of Infectious Diseases, Beijing 100015, China; National Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100015, China.
| | - Danying Chen
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Emerging Infectious Diseases, Institute of Infectious Diseases, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100015, China; Beijing Institute of Infectious Diseases, Beijing 100015, China; National Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100015, China
| | - Xinglin Li
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Emerging Infectious Diseases, Institute of Infectious Diseases, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100015, China; Beijing Institute of Infectious Diseases, Beijing 100015, China; National Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100015, China
| | - Lauren Griffith
- Baruch S. Blumberg Institute, Hepatitis B Foundation, 3805 Old Easton Road, Doylestown, PA 18902, USA
| | - Jinhong Chang
- Baruch S. Blumberg Institute, Hepatitis B Foundation, 3805 Old Easton Road, Doylestown, PA 18902, USA
| | - Ping An
- Basic Research Laboratory, National Cancer Institute, Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc., Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD 21702, USA
| | - Ju-Tao Guo
- Baruch S. Blumberg Institute, Hepatitis B Foundation, 3805 Old Easton Road, Doylestown, PA 18902, USA.
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Yang JX, Tseng JC, Yu GY, Luo Y, Huang CYF, Hong YR, Chuang TH. Recent Advances in the Development of Toll-like Receptor Agonist-Based Vaccine Adjuvants for Infectious Diseases. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14020423. [PMID: 35214155 PMCID: PMC8878135 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14020423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Vaccines are powerful tools for controlling microbial infections and preventing epidemic diseases. Efficient inactive, subunit, or viral-like particle vaccines usually rely on a safe and potent adjuvant to boost the immune response to the antigen. After a slow start, over the last decade there has been increased developments on adjuvants for human vaccines. The development of adjuvants has paralleled our increased understanding of the molecular mechanisms for the pattern recognition receptor (PRR)-mediated activation of immune responses. Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are a group of PRRs that recognize microbial pathogens to initiate a host’s response to infection. Activation of TLRs triggers potent and immediate innate immune responses, which leads to subsequent adaptive immune responses. Therefore, these TLRs are ideal targets for the development of effective adjuvants. To date, TLR agonists such as monophosphoryl lipid A (MPL) and CpG-1018 have been formulated in licensed vaccines for their adjuvant activity, and other TLR agonists are being developed for this purpose. The COVID-19 pandemic has also accelerated clinical research of vaccines containing TLR agonist-based adjuvants. In this paper, we reviewed the agonists for TLR activation and the molecular mechanisms associated with the adjuvants’ effects on TLR activation, emphasizing recent advances in the development of TLR agonist-based vaccine adjuvants for infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing-Xing Yang
- Immunology Research Center, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli 35053, Taiwan; (J.-X.Y.); (J.-C.T.)
| | - Jen-Chih Tseng
- Immunology Research Center, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli 35053, Taiwan; (J.-X.Y.); (J.-C.T.)
| | - Guann-Yi Yu
- National Institute of Infectious Diseases and Vaccinology, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli 35053, Taiwan;
| | - Yunping Luo
- Department of Immunology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China;
| | - Chi-Ying F. Huang
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112304, Taiwan;
| | - Yi-Ren Hong
- Graduate Institute of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan;
| | - Tsung-Hsien Chuang
- Immunology Research Center, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli 35053, Taiwan; (J.-X.Y.); (J.-C.T.)
- Department of Life Sciences, National Central University, Taoyuan City 32001, Taiwan
- Program in Environmental and Occupational Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +886-37-246166 (ext. 37611)
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25
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Li X, Sun X, Guo X, Li X, Peng S, Mu X. Chemical reagents modulate nucleic acid-activated toll-like receptors. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 147:112622. [PMID: 35008000 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.112622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Revised: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Nucleic acid-mediated interferon signaling plays a pivotal role in defense against microorganisms, especially during viral infection. Receptors sensing exogenous nucleic acid molecules are localized in the cytosol and endosomes. Cytosolic sensors, including cGAS, RIG-I, and MDA5, and endosome-anchored receptors are toll-like receptors (TLR3, TLR7, TLR8, and TLR9). These TLRs share the same domain architecture and have similar structures, facing the interior of endosomes so their binding to nucleic acids of invading pathogens via endocytosis is possible. The correct function of these receptors is crucial for cell homeostasis and effective response against pathogen invasion. A variety of endogenous mechanisms modulates their activities. Nevertheless, naturally occurring mutations lead to aberrant TLR-mediated interferon (IFN) signaling. Furthermore, certain pathogens require a more robust defense against control. Thus, manipulating these TLR activities has a profound impact. High-throughput virtual screening followed by experimental validation led to the discovery of numerous chemicals that can change these TLR-mediated IFN signaling activities. Many of them are unique in selectivity, while others regulate more than one TLR due to commonalities in these receptors. We summarized these nucleic acid-sensing TLR-mediated IFN signaling pathways and the corresponding chemicals activating or deactivating their signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China; Tianjin University and Health-Biotech United Group Joint Laboratory of Innovative Drug Development and Translational Medicine, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Xinyuan Sun
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China; Tianjin University and Health-Biotech United Group Joint Laboratory of Innovative Drug Development and Translational Medicine, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Xuemin Guo
- Meizhou People's Hospital, Meizhou 514031, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine and Clinical Translation Research of Hakka Population, Meizhou 514031, China
| | - Xueren Li
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Haihe Clinical College of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Shouchun Peng
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Haihe Clinical College of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300350, China.
| | - Xin Mu
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China; Tianjin University and Health-Biotech United Group Joint Laboratory of Innovative Drug Development and Translational Medicine, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China.
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26
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Ouranidis A, Vavilis T, Mandala E, Davidopoulou C, Stamoula E, Markopoulou CK, Karagianni A, Kachrimanis K. mRNA Therapeutic Modalities Design, Formulation and Manufacturing under Pharma 4.0 Principles. Biomedicines 2021; 10:50. [PMID: 35052730 PMCID: PMC8773365 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10010050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Revised: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In the quest for a formidable weapon against the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, mRNA therapeutics have stolen the spotlight. mRNA vaccines are a prime example of the benefits of mRNA approaches towards a broad array of clinical entities and druggable targets. Amongst these benefits is the rapid cycle "from design to production" of an mRNA product compared to their peptide counterparts, the mutability of the production line should another target be chosen, the side-stepping of safety issues posed by DNA therapeutics being permanently integrated into the transfected cell's genome and the controlled precision over the translated peptides. Furthermore, mRNA applications are versatile: apart from vaccines it can be used as a replacement therapy, even to create chimeric antigen receptor T-cells or reprogram somatic cells. Still, the sudden global demand for mRNA has highlighted the shortcomings in its industrial production as well as its formulation, efficacy and applicability. Continuous, smart mRNA manufacturing 4.0 technologies have been recently proposed to address such challenges. In this work, we examine the lab and upscaled production of mRNA therapeutics, the mRNA modifications proposed that increase its efficacy and lower its immunogenicity, the vectors available for delivery and the stability considerations concerning long-term storage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Ouranidis
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, School of Pharmacy, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Theofanis Vavilis
- Laboratory of Biology and Genetics, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Evdokia Mandala
- Fourth Department of Internal Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Christina Davidopoulou
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, School of Pharmacy, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Eleni Stamoula
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Catherine K Markopoulou
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, School of Pharmacy, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Anna Karagianni
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, School of Pharmacy, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Kyriakos Kachrimanis
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, School of Pharmacy, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
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27
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Steinle H, Weber J, Stoppelkamp S, Große-Berkenbusch K, Golombek S, Weber M, Canak-Ipek T, Trenz SM, Schlensak C, Avci-Adali M. Delivery of synthetic mRNAs for tissue regeneration. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2021; 179:114007. [PMID: 34710530 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.114007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Revised: 10/03/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, nucleic acid-based therapeutics have gained increasing importance as novel treatment options for disease prevention and treatment. Synthetic messenger RNAs (mRNAs) are promising nucleic acid-based drugs to transiently express desired proteins that are missing or defective. Recently, synthetic mRNA-based vaccines encoding viral proteins have been approved for emergency use against COVID-19. Various types of vehicles, such as lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) and liposomes, are being investigated to enable the efficient uptake of mRNA molecules into desired cells. In addition, the introduction of novel chemical modifications into mRNAs increased the stability, enabled the modulation of nucleic acid-based drugs, and increased the efficiency of mRNA-based therapeutic approaches. In this review, novel and innovative strategies for the delivery of synthetic mRNA-based therapeutics for tissue regeneration are discussed. Moreover, with this review, we aim to highlight the versatility of synthetic mRNA molecules for various applications in the field of regenerative medicine and also discuss translational challenges and required improvements for mRNA-based drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidrun Steinle
- University Hospital Tuebingen, Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Calwerstraße 7/1, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Josefin Weber
- University Hospital Tuebingen, Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Calwerstraße 7/1, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Sandra Stoppelkamp
- University Hospital Tuebingen, Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Calwerstraße 7/1, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Katharina Große-Berkenbusch
- University Hospital Tuebingen, Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Calwerstraße 7/1, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Sonia Golombek
- University Hospital Tuebingen, Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Calwerstraße 7/1, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Marbod Weber
- University Hospital Tuebingen, Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Calwerstraße 7/1, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Tuba Canak-Ipek
- University Hospital Tuebingen, Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Calwerstraße 7/1, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Sarah-Maria Trenz
- University Hospital Tuebingen, Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Calwerstraße 7/1, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Christian Schlensak
- University Hospital Tuebingen, Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Calwerstraße 7/1, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Meltem Avci-Adali
- University Hospital Tuebingen, Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Calwerstraße 7/1, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany.
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28
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Morais P, Adachi H, Yu YT. The Critical Contribution of Pseudouridine to mRNA COVID-19 Vaccines. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:789427. [PMID: 34805188 PMCID: PMC8600071 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.789427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The current COVID-19 pandemic is a massive source of global disruption, having led so far to two hundred and fifty million COVID-19 cases and almost five million deaths worldwide. It was recognized in the beginning that only an effective vaccine could lead to a way out of the pandemic, and therefore the race for the COVID-19 vaccine started immediately, boosted by the availability of the viral sequence data. Two novel vaccine platforms, based on mRNA technology, were developed in 2020 by Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna Therapeutics (comirnaty® and spikevax®, respectively), and were the first ones presenting efficacies higher than 90%. Both consisted of N1-methyl-pseudouridine-modified mRNA encoding the SARS-COVID-19 Spike protein and were delivered with a lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulation. Because the delivery problem of ribonucleic acids had been known for decades, the success of LNPs was quickly hailed by many as the unsung hero of COVID-19 mRNA vaccines. However, the clinical trial efficacy results of the Curevac mRNA vaccine (CVnCoV) suggested that the delivery system was not the only key to the success. CVnCoV consisted of an unmodified mRNA (encoding the same spike protein as Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech's mRNA vaccines) and was formulated with the same LNP as Pfizer-BioNTech's vaccine (Acuitas ALC-0315). However, its efficacy was only 48%. This striking difference in efficacy could be attributed to the presence of a critical RNA modification (N1-methyl-pseudouridine) in the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna's mRNA vaccines (but not in CVnCoV). Here we highlight the features of N1-methyl-pseudouridine and its contributions to mRNA vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hironori Adachi
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Center for RNA Biology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Yi-Tao Yu
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Center for RNA Biology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States
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29
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Abstract
In vitro-transcribed RNAs are emerging as new biologics for therapeutic innovation, as exemplified by their application recently in SARS-CoV-2 vaccinations. RNAs prepared by in vitro transcription (IVT) allow transient expression of proteins of interest, conferring safety over DNA- or virus-mediated gene delivery systems. However, in vitro-transcribed RNAs should be used with caution because of their immunogenicity, which is in part triggered by double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) byproducts during IVT. Cellular innate immune response to dsRNA byproducts can lead to undesirable consequences, including suppression of protein synthesis and cell death, which in turn can detrimentally impact the efficacy of mRNA therapy. Thus, it is critical to understand the nature of IVT byproducts and the mechanisms by which they trigger innate immune responses.Our lab has been investigating the mechanisms by which the innate immune system discriminates between "self" and "nonself" RNA, with the focus on the cytoplasmic dsRNA receptors retinoic acid-inducible gene I (RIG-I) and melanoma differentiation-associated 5 (MDA5). We have biochemically and structurally characterized critical events involving RNA discrimination and signal transduction by RIG-I or MDA5. We have used in vitro-transcribed RNAs as tools to investigate RNA specificity of RIG-I and MDA5, which required optimization of the IVT reaction and purification processes to eliminate the effect of IVT byproducts. In this Account, we summarize our current understanding of RIG-I and MDA5 and IVT reactions and propose future directions for improving IVT as a method to generate both research tools and therapeutics. Other critical proteins in cellular innate immune response to dsRNAs are also discussed. We arrange the contents in the following order: (i) innate immunity sensors for nonself RNA, including the RIG-I-like receptors (RLRs) in the cytosol and the toll-like receptors (TLRs) in the endosome, as well as cytoplasmic dsRNA-responding proteins, including protein kinase R (PKR) and 2',5'-oligoadenylate synthetases (OASes), illustrating the feature of protein-RNA binding and its consequences; (ii) the immunogenicity of IVT byproducts, specifically the generation of dsRNA molecules during IVT; and (iii) methods to reduce IVT RNA immunogenicity, including optimizations of RNA polymerases, reagents, and experimental conditions during IVT and subsequent purification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Mu
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
- Tianjin University and Health-Biotech United Group Joint Laboratory of Innovative Drug Development and Translational Medicine, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Sun Hur
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- Program in Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
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30
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Minnaert AK, Vanluchene H, Verbeke R, Lentacker I, De Smedt SC, Raemdonck K, Sanders NN, Remaut K. Strategies for controlling the innate immune activity of conventional and self-amplifying mRNA therapeutics: Getting the message across. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2021; 176:113900. [PMID: 34324884 PMCID: PMC8325057 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.113900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Revised: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The recent approval of messenger RNA (mRNA)-based vaccines to combat the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic highlights the potential of both conventional mRNA and self-amplifying mRNA (saRNA) as a flexible immunotherapy platform to treat infectious diseases. Besides the antigen it encodes, mRNA itself has an immune-stimulating activity that can contribute to vaccine efficacy. This self-adjuvant effect, however, will interfere with mRNA translation and may influence the desired therapeutic outcome. To further exploit its potential as a versatile therapeutic platform, it will be crucial to control mRNA's innate immune-stimulating properties. In this regard, we describe the mechanisms behind the innate immune recognition of mRNA and provide an extensive overview of strategies to control its innate immune-stimulating activity. These strategies range from modifications to the mRNA backbone itself, optimization of production and purification processes to the combination with innate immune inhibitors. Furthermore, we discuss the delicate balance of the self-adjuvant effect in mRNA vaccination strategies, which can be both beneficial and detrimental to the therapeutic outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- An-Katrien Minnaert
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Helena Vanluchene
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Rein Verbeke
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Ine Lentacker
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Stefaan C De Smedt
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Koen Raemdonck
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Niek N Sanders
- Laboratory of Gene Therapy, Department of Nutrition, Genetics and Ethology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Katrien Remaut
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium.
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31
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Salvi V, Nguyen HO, Sozio F, Schioppa T, Gaudenzi C, Laffranchi M, Scapini P, Passari M, Barbazza I, Tiberio L, Tamassia N, Garlanda C, Del Prete A, Cassatella MA, Mantovani A, Sozzani S, Bosisio D. SARS-CoV-2-associated ssRNAs activate inflammation and immunity via TLR7/8. JCI Insight 2021; 6:e150542. [PMID: 34375313 PMCID: PMC8492321 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.150542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The inflammatory and IFN pathways of innate immunity play a key role in the resistance and pathogenesis of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Innate sensors and SARS-CoV-2–associated molecular patterns (SAMPs) remain to be completely defined. Here, we identified single-stranded RNA (ssRNA) fragments from the SARS-CoV-2 genome as direct activators of endosomal TLR7/8 and MyD88 pathway. The same sequences induced human DC activation in terms of phenotype and function, such as IFN and cytokine production and Th1 polarization. A bioinformatic scan of the viral genome identified several hundreds of fragments potentially activating TLR7/8, suggesting that products of virus endosomal processing potently activate the IFN and inflammatory responses downstream of these receptors. In vivo, SAMPs induced MyD88-dependent lung inflammation characterized by accumulation of proinflammatory and cytotoxic mediators and immune cell infiltration, as well as splenic DC phenotypical maturation. These results identified TLR7/8 as a crucial cellular sensor of ssRNAs encoded by SARS-CoV-2 involved in host resistance and the disease pathogenesis of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Salvi
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Hoang Oanh Nguyen
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Francesca Sozio
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Tiziana Schioppa
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Carolina Gaudenzi
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Mattia Laffranchi
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | | | - Mauro Passari
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Ilaria Barbazza
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Laura Tiberio
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | | | - Cecilia Garlanda
- Research in Immunology and Infectious Disease, IRCCS Humanities Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Annalisa Del Prete
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | | | - Alberto Mantovani
- Research in Immunology and Infectious Disease, IRCCS Humanities Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Silvano Sozzani
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Bosisio
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
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32
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Maghraby AS. Immunomodulatory Responses Of Toll Like Receptors Against 2019nCoV. RUSSIAN OPEN MEDICAL JOURNAL 2021. [DOI: 10.15275/rusomj.2021.0202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The present review discusses the immune signals via toll like receptors (TLRs) against 2019nCoV. We researched using different database, up to June 18th, 2020. All the included articles were published in English language. The outcome of this review, that some TLRs agonists or antagonists are progressed as drugs to combat and down regulating TLRs immune signals respectively. TLRs 3 and 4 recognized 2019nCoV spike protein through immune and molecular signals that leading to immune stimulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines and even the immune fever. While the TLRs7 and 8 recognized single-stranded ribonucleic acids (ssRNAs) leading to elevation of the tumour necrosis factor α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-6 and -12 levels. TLRs agonists or antagonists utilized as immunotherapeutic targets against 2019nCoV via TLRs signals. Chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine; the approval compounds for 2019nCoV therapy can be inhibiting the class II major histocompatibility complex molecules expression and antigen presentation and even immune suppressions of the pro-inflammatory cytokines profile.
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33
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Shahryari A, Burtscher I, Nazari Z, Lickert H. Engineering Gene Therapy: Advances and Barriers. ADVANCED THERAPEUTICS 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/adtp.202100040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Alireza Shahryari
- Institute of Diabetes and Regeneration Research Helmholtz Zentrum München 85764 Neuherberg Germany
- School of Medicine Department of Human Genetics Technical University of Munich Klinikum Rechts der Isar 81675 München Germany
- Institute of Stem Cell Research Helmholtz Zentrum München 85764 Neuherberg Germany
- Stem Cell Research Center Golestan University of Medical Sciences Gorgan 49341‐74515 Iran
| | - Ingo Burtscher
- Institute of Diabetes and Regeneration Research Helmholtz Zentrum München 85764 Neuherberg Germany
- Institute of Stem Cell Research Helmholtz Zentrum München 85764 Neuherberg Germany
| | - Zahra Nazari
- Department of Biology School of Basic Sciences Golestan University Gorgan 49361‐79142 Iran
| | - Heiko Lickert
- Institute of Diabetes and Regeneration Research Helmholtz Zentrum München 85764 Neuherberg Germany
- School of Medicine Department of Human Genetics Technical University of Munich Klinikum Rechts der Isar 81675 München Germany
- Institute of Stem Cell Research Helmholtz Zentrum München 85764 Neuherberg Germany
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Nance K, Meier JL. Modifications in an Emergency: The Role of N1-Methylpseudouridine in COVID-19 Vaccines. ACS CENTRAL SCIENCE 2021; 7:748-756. [PMID: 34075344 PMCID: PMC8043204 DOI: 10.1021/acscentsci.1c00197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 184] [Impact Index Per Article: 61.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
The novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, the cause of the COVID-19 pandemic, has inspired one of the most efficient vaccine development campaigns in human history. A key aspect of COVID-19 mRNA vaccines is the use of the modified nucleobase N1-methylpseudouridine (m1Ψ) to increase their effectiveness. In this Outlook, we summarize the development and function of m1Ψ in synthetic mRNAs. By demystifying how a novel element within these medicines works, we aim to foster understanding and highlight future opportunities for chemical innovation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kellie
D. Nance
- Chemical
Biology Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, 538 Chandler Street, Frederick, Maryland 21702, United States
| | - Jordan L. Meier
- Chemical
Biology Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, 538 Chandler Street, Frederick, Maryland 21702, United States
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Kaushik D, Kaur A, Petrovsky N, Salunke DB. Structural evolution of toll-like receptor 7/8 agonists from imidazoquinolines to imidazoles. RSC Med Chem 2021; 12:1065-1120. [PMID: 34355178 DOI: 10.1039/d1md00031d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Several synthetic heterocyclic small molecules like imiquimod, resiquimod, CL097, CL075, bromopirone, tilorone, loxoribine and isatoribine demonstrated TLR7/8 agonistic activity and relatively modest structural changes in such molecules result in major variation in the TLR7 and/or TLR8 activity. A strict dependency of the electronic configuration of the heterocyclic system was also observed to influence the agonistic activity. In the present review, an evolution of imidazole based TLR7/8 agonist from imidazoquinoline based scaffold is delineated along with the elaboration of detailed structure activity relationship (SAR) in each chemotype. The structural and activity details of not only the active compounds but also the related inactive compounds are included to better understand the SAR. TLR7/8 agonists are emerging as promising vaccine adjuvant candidates and the present SAR and structural information will provide a road map towards the identification of more potent and appropriate candidates for further drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepender Kaushik
- Department of Chemistry and Centre of Advanced Studies in Chemistry, Panjab University Chandigarh 160014 India
| | - Arshpreet Kaur
- Department of Chemistry and Centre of Advanced Studies in Chemistry, Panjab University Chandigarh 160014 India
| | - Nikolai Petrovsky
- Vaxine Pty Ltd 11 Walkley Avenue Warradale 5046 Australia.,College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University Bedford Park 5042 Australia
| | - Deepak B Salunke
- Department of Chemistry and Centre of Advanced Studies in Chemistry, Panjab University Chandigarh 160014 India .,National Interdisciplinary Centre of Vaccine, Immunotherapeutics and Antimicrobials, Panjab University Chandigarh 160014 India
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Non-Immunotherapy Application of LNP-mRNA: Maximizing Efficacy and Safety. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9050530. [PMID: 34068715 PMCID: PMC8151051 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9050530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Revised: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulated messenger RNA-based (LNP-mRNA) vaccines came into the spotlight as the first vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 virus to be applied worldwide. Long-known benefits of mRNA-based technologies consisting of relatively simple and fast engineering of mRNA encoding for antigens and proteins of interest, no genomic integration, and fast and efficient manufacturing process compared with other biologics have been verified, thus establishing a basis for a broad range of applications. The intrinsic immunogenicity of LNP formulated in vitro transcribed (IVT) mRNA is beneficial to the LNP-mRNA vaccines. However, avoiding immune activation is critical for therapeutic applications of LNP-mRNA for protein replacement where targeted mRNA expression and repetitive administration of high doses for a lifetime are required. This review summarizes our current understanding of immune activation induced by mRNA, IVT byproducts, and LNP. It gives a comprehensive overview of the present status of preclinical and clinical studies in which LNP-mRNA is used for protein replacement and treatment of rare diseases with an emphasis on safety. Moreover, the review outlines innovations and strategies to advance pharmacology and safety of LNP-mRNA for non-immunotherapy applications.
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Yang CW, Chen MF. Low compositions of human toll-like receptor 7/8-stimulating RNA motifs in the MERS-CoV, SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2 genomes imply a substantial ability to evade human innate immunity. PeerJ 2021; 9:e11008. [PMID: 33665043 PMCID: PMC7912611 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.11008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The innate immune system especially Toll-like receptor (TLR) 7/8 and the interferon pathway, constitutes an important first line of defense against single-stranded RNA viruses. However, large-scale, systematic comparisons of the TLR 7/8-stimulating potential of genomic RNAs of single-stranded RNA viruses are rare. In this study, a computational method to evaluate the human TLR 7/8-stimulating ability of single-stranded RNA virus genomes based on their human TLR 7/8-stimulating trimer compositions was used to analyze 1,002 human coronavirus genomes. Results The human TLR 7/8-stimulating potential of coronavirus genomic (positive strand) RNAs followed the order of NL63-CoV > HKU1-CoV >229E-CoV ≅ OC63-CoV > SARS-CoV-2 > MERS-CoV > SARS-CoV. These results suggest that among these coronaviruses, MERS-CoV, SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2 may have a higher ability to evade the human TLR 7/8-mediated innate immune response. Analysis with a logistic regression equation derived from human coronavirus data revealed that most of the 1,762 coronavirus genomic (positive strand) RNAs isolated from bats, camels, cats, civets, dogs and birds exhibited weak human TLR 7/8-stimulating potential equivalent to that of the MERS-CoV, SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2 genomic RNAs. Conclusions Prediction of the human TLR 7/8-stimulating potential of viral genomic RNAs may be useful for surveillance of emerging coronaviruses from nonhuman mammalian hosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chu-Wen Yang
- Department of Microbiology, Center for Applied Artificial Intelligence Research, Soochow University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Mei-Fang Chen
- Department of Medical Research, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
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Immunostimulatory siRNA with a uridine bulge leads to potent inhibition of HBV and activation of innate immunity. Virol J 2021; 18:37. [PMID: 33602251 PMCID: PMC7890953 DOI: 10.1186/s12985-021-01509-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is difficult to cure. HBV-specific immune tolerance plays a key role in HBV persistence, and enhancing cellular and humoral immunity will improve the control of HBV infection. The purpose of the study was to explore the anti-HBV and immunostimulatory effects of msiRNAs that introduce unpaired uridine bulges in the passenger strand. METHODS msiRNAs targeting the HBV S and X genes were designed and named msiHBs and msiHBx, respectively. HepG2 cells were cotransfected with siRNA or msiRNA and the HBV replication-competent plasmid pHY106-wta or pHY106-X15. HepG2.215 cells were transfected with siRNA or msiRNA. The levels of HBsAg, HBeAg, and the cytokines TNF-α, IFN-α, IFN-β, IL-1α, and IL-6 in the culture supernatant was detected by ELISA. The levels of intracellular HBV RNA, nuclear HBV replication intermediates, and HBV DNA in the supernatant were measured by quantitative RT-PCR and PCR. The levels of HBV replication intermediates were detected by Southern blotting. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were transfected with siRNA or msiRNA, and the levels of secreted cytokines IFN-α and IFN-β were detected by ELISA. The bioactivity of type I interferons in the supernatants was detected by the virus protection assay. RESULTS msiHBx treatment led to a significant decrease in HBsAg (to a negative level) and HBV DNA (95.5%) in the supernatant and intrahepatocellular HBV replication intermediates (89.8%) in HepG2 cells with transient HBV replication and in HepG2.2.15 cells. There was no significant difference between msiHBx and siHBx in terms of the reduction in HBV proteins and HBV replication (P > 0.05). Compared with siHBx, msiHBx treatment of HepG2 cells transfected with the HBV replication-competent plasmid led to a significant increase in the levels of the antiviral cytokines TNF-α (3.3-fold), IFN-α (1.4-fold), and IFN-β (2.5-fold) (P < 0.01), without upregulation of the proinflammatory cytokines IL-1α and IL-6. The virus protection assay results showed msiHBx-mediated type I interferons effectively protected L929 cells against ECMV infection. CONCLUSIONS msiHBx could effectively inhibit HBV expression and replication and induce an antiviral innate immune response without proinflammatory activation. The dual RNAi and immunostimulatory activity of msiRNAs may play an important role in the control of HBV infection.
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Roca Suarez AA, Testoni B, Baumert TF, Lupberger J. Nucleic Acid-Induced Signaling in Chronic Viral Liver Disease. Front Immunol 2021; 11:624034. [PMID: 33613561 PMCID: PMC7892431 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.624034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
A hallmark for the development and progression of chronic liver diseases is the persistent dysregulation of signaling pathways related to inflammatory responses, which eventually promotes the development of hepatic fibrosis, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The two major etiological agents associated with these complications in immunocompetent patients are hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV), accounting for almost 1.4 million liver disease-associated deaths worldwide. Although both differ significantly from the point of their genomes and viral life cycles, they exert not only individual but also common strategies to divert innate antiviral defenses. Multiple virus-modulated pathways implicated in stress and inflammation illustrate how chronic viral hepatitis persistently tweaks host signaling processes with important consequences for liver pathogenesis. The following review aims to summarize the molecular events implicated in the sensing of viral nucleic acids, the mechanisms employed by HBV and HCV to counter these measures and how the dysregulation of these cellular pathways drives the development of chronic liver disease and the progression toward HCC.
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MESH Headings
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/immunology
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/mortality
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/pathology
- DNA, Viral/immunology
- Hepacivirus/immunology
- Hepatitis B virus/immunology
- Hepatitis B, Chronic/immunology
- Hepatitis B, Chronic/mortality
- Hepatitis B, Chronic/pathology
- Hepatitis C, Chronic/immunology
- Hepatitis C, Chronic/mortality
- Hepatitis C, Chronic/pathology
- Humans
- Liver Neoplasms/immunology
- Liver Neoplasms/mortality
- Liver Neoplasms/pathology
- RNA, Viral/immunology
- Signal Transduction/immunology
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Affiliation(s)
- Armando Andres Roca Suarez
- INSERM, U1110, Institut de Recherche sur les Maladies Virales et Hépatiques, Strasbourg, France
- Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
- INSERM U1052, CNRS UMR-5286, Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), Lyon, France
- University of Lyon, Université Claude-Bernard (UCBL), Lyon, France
| | - Barbara Testoni
- INSERM U1052, CNRS UMR-5286, Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), Lyon, France
- University of Lyon, Université Claude-Bernard (UCBL), Lyon, France
| | - Thomas F. Baumert
- INSERM, U1110, Institut de Recherche sur les Maladies Virales et Hépatiques, Strasbourg, France
- Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
- Institut Hospitalo-Universitaire, Pôle Hépato-digestif, Nouvel Hôpital Civil, Strasbourg, France
- Institut Universitaire de France (IUF), Paris, France
| | - Joachim Lupberger
- INSERM, U1110, Institut de Recherche sur les Maladies Virales et Hépatiques, Strasbourg, France
- Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
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Abstract
The discovery that gene expression can be silenced by exogenously introduced double-stranded RNAs into cells unveiled a hidden level of gene regulation by a variety of small RNA pathways, which are involved in regulating endogenous gene expression, defending against virus infections, and protecting the genome from invading transposons, both at the posttranscriptional and epigenetic levels. All endogenous RNA interference pathways share a conserved effector complex, which contains at least an argonaute protein and a short single-stranded RNA. Such argonaute-RNA complexes can repress the transcription of genes, target mRNA for site-specific cleavage, or block mRNA translation into proteins. This review outlines the history of RNAi discovery, function, and mechanisms of action. For comparison, it also touches on CRISPR interference.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mouldy Sioud
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital-Radiumhospitalet, Oslo, Norway.
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Abstract
The innate immune receptors in higher organisms have evolved to detect molecular signatures associated with pathogenic infection and trigger appropriate immune response. One common class of molecules utilized by the innate immune system for self vs. nonself discrimination is RNA, which is ironically present in all forms of life. To avoid self-RNA recognition, the innate immune sensors have evolved sophisticated discriminatory mechanisms that involve cellular RNA metabolic machineries. Posttranscriptional RNA modification and editing represent one such mechanism that allows cells to chemically tag the host RNAs as "self" and thus tolerate the abundant self-RNA molecules. In this chapter, we discuss recent advances in our understanding of the role of RNA editing/modification in the modulation of immune signaling pathways, and application of RNA editing/modification in RNA-based therapeutics and cancer immunotherapies.
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Charbe NB, Amnerkar ND, Ramesh B, Tambuwala MM, Bakshi HA, Aljabali AA, Khadse SC, Satheeshkumar R, Satija S, Metha M, Chellappan DK, Shrivastava G, Gupta G, Negi P, Dua K, Zacconi FC. Small interfering RNA for cancer treatment: overcoming hurdles in delivery. Acta Pharm Sin B 2020; 10:2075-2109. [PMID: 33304780 PMCID: PMC7714980 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2020.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Revised: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
In many ways, cancer cells are different from healthy cells. A lot of tactical nano-based drug delivery systems are based on the difference between cancer and healthy cells. Currently, nanotechnology-based delivery systems are the most promising tool to deliver DNA-based products to cancer cells. This review aims to highlight the latest development in the lipids and polymeric nanocarrier for siRNA delivery to the cancer cells. It also provides the necessary information about siRNA development and its mechanism of action. Overall, this review gives us a clear picture of lipid and polymer-based drug delivery systems, which in the future could form the base to translate the basic siRNA biology into siRNA-based cancer therapies.
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Key Words
- 1,3-propanediol, PEG-b-PDMAEMA-b-Ppy
- 2-propylacrylicacid, PAH-b-PDMAPMA-b-PAH
- APOB, apolipoprotein B
- AQP-5, aquaporin-5
- AZEMA, azidoethyl methacrylate
- Atufect01, β-l-arginyl-2,3-l-diaminopropionicacid-N-palmityl-N-oleyl-amide trihydrochloride
- AuNPs, gold nanoparticles
- B-PEI, branched polyethlenimine
- BMA, butyl methacrylate
- CFTR, cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator gene
- CHEMS, cholesteryl hemisuccinate
- CHOL, cholesterol
- CMC, critical micelles concentration
- Cancer
- DC-Chol, 3β-[N-(N′,N′-dimethylaminoethane)carbamoyl]cholesterol
- DMAEMA, 2-dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate
- DNA, deoxyribonucleic acid
- DOPC, dioleylphosphatidyl choline
- DOPE, dioleylphosphatidyl ethanolamine
- DOTAP, N-[1-(2,3-dioleoyloxy)propyl]-N,N,N-trimethylammonium methyl-sulfate
- DOTMA, N-[1-(2,3-dioleyloxy)propy]-N,N,N-trimethylammoniumchloride
- DOX, doxorubicin
- DSGLA, N,N-dis-tearyl-N-methyl-N-2[N′-(N2-guanidino-l-lysinyl)] aminoethylammonium chloride
- DSPC, 1,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine
- DSPE, 1,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphorylethanolamine
- DSPE-MPEG, 1,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine-N-[methoxy(polyethylene glycol)-2000] (ammonium salt)
- DSPE-PEG-Mal: 1,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine-N-[maleimide(polyethylene glycol)-2000] (mmmonium salt), EPR
- Liposomes
- Micelles
- N-acetylgalactosamine, HIF-1α
- Nanomedicine
- PE-PCL-b-PNVCL, pentaerythritol polycaprolactone-block-poly(N-vinylcaprolactam)
- PLA, poly-l-arginine
- PLGA, poly lactic-co-glycolic acid
- PLK-1, polo-like kinase 1
- PLL, poly-l-lysine
- PPES-b-PEO-b-PPES, poly(4-(phenylethynyl)styrene)-block-PEO-block-poly(4-(phenylethynyl)styrene)
- PTX, paclitaxel
- PiRNA, piwi-interacting RNA
- Polymer
- RES, reticuloendothelial system
- RGD, Arg-Gly-Asp peptide
- RISC, RNA-induced silencing complex
- RNA, ribonucleic acid
- RNAi, RNA interference
- RNAse III, ribonuclease III enzyme
- SEM, scanning electron microscope
- SNALP, stable nucleic acid-lipid particles
- SiRNA, short interfering rNA
- Small interfering RNA (siRNA)
- S–Au, thio‒gold
- TCC, transitional cell carcinoma
- TEM, transmission electron microscopy
- Tf, transferrin
- Trka, tropomyosin receptor kinase A
- USPIO, ultra-small superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles
- UV, ultraviolet
- VEGF, vascular endothelial growth factor
- ZEBOV, Zaire ebola virus
- enhanced permeability and retention, Galnac
- hypoxia-inducible factor-1α, KSP
- kinesin spindle protein, LDI
- lipid-protamine-DNA/hyaluronic acid, MDR
- lysine ethyl ester diisocyanate, LPD/LPH
- messenger RNA, MTX
- methotrexate, NIR
- methoxy polyethylene glycol-polycaprolactone, mRNA
- methoxypoly(ethylene glycol), MPEG-PCL
- micro RNA, MPEG
- multiple drug resistance, MiRNA
- nanoparticle, NRP-1
- near-infrared, NP
- neuropilin-1, PAA
- poly(N,N-dimethylacrylamide), PDO
- poly(N-isopropyl acrylamide), pentaerythritol polycaprolactone-block-poly(N-isopropylacrylamide)
- poly(acrylhydrazine)-block-poly(3-dimethylaminopropyl methacrylamide)-block-poly(acrylhydrazine), PCL
- poly(ethylene glycol)-block-poly(2-dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate)-block poly(pyrenylmethyl methacrylate), PEG-b-PLL
- poly(ethylene glycol)-block-poly(l-lysine), PEI
- poly(ethylene oxide)-block-poly(2-(diethylamino)ethyl methacrylate)-stat-poly(methoxyethyl methacrylate), PEO-b-PCL
- poly(ethylene oxide)-block-poly(Ε-caprolactone), PE-PCL-b-PNIPAM
- poly(Ε-caprolactone), PCL-PEG
- poly(Ε-caprolactone)-polyethyleneglycol-poly(l-histidine), PCL-PEI
- polycaprolactone-polyethyleneglycol, PCL-PEG-PHIS
- polycaprolactone-polyethylenimine, PDMA
- polyethylenimine, PEO-b-P(DEA-Stat-MEMA
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Affiliation(s)
- Nitin Bharat Charbe
- Departamento de Quimica Orgánica, Facultad de Química y de Farmacia, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 7820436, Chile
- Sri Adichunchunagiri College of Pharmacy, Sri Adichunchunagiri University, BG Nagar, Karnataka 571418, India
| | - Nikhil D. Amnerkar
- Adv V. R. Manohar Institute of Diploma in Pharmacy, Nagpur, Maharashtra 441110, India
| | - B. Ramesh
- Sri Adichunchunagiri College of Pharmacy, Sri Adichunchunagiri University, BG Nagar, Karnataka 571418, India
| | - Murtaza M. Tambuwala
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Science, Ulster University, Coleraine, Northern Ireland BT52 1SA, UK
| | - Hamid A. Bakshi
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Science, Ulster University, Coleraine, Northern Ireland BT52 1SA, UK
| | - Alaa A.A. Aljabali
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, Yarmouk University, Irbid 21163, Jordan
| | - Saurabh C. Khadse
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, R.C. Patel Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Dist. Dhule, Maharashtra 425 405, India
| | - Rajendran Satheeshkumar
- Departamento de Quimica Orgánica, Facultad de Química y de Farmacia, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 7820436, Chile
| | - Saurabh Satija
- Discipline of Pharmacy, Graduate School of Health, University of Technology Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara 144411 Punjab, India
| | - Meenu Metha
- Discipline of Pharmacy, Graduate School of Health, University of Technology Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara 144411 Punjab, India
| | - Dinesh Kumar Chellappan
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Pharmacy, International Medical University, Bukit Jalil 57000, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Garima Shrivastava
- Department of Biochemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi, New Delhi 110016, India
| | - Gaurav Gupta
- School of Pharmacy, Suresh Gyan Vihar University, Jagatpura, Jaipur 302017, India
| | - Poonam Negi
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shoolini University of Biotechnology and Management Sciences, Solan 173229, India
| | - Kamal Dua
- Discipline of Pharmacy, Graduate School of Health, University of Technology Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shoolini University of Biotechnology and Management Sciences, Solan 173229, India
- Priority Research Centre for Healthy Lungs, Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI) and School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Flavia C. Zacconi
- Departamento de Quimica Orgánica, Facultad de Química y de Farmacia, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 7820436, Chile
- Institute for Biological and Medical Engineering, Schools of Engineering, Medicine and Biological Sciences, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 4860, Chile
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Zhang H, Li S, Wang F, Xiang J, Li F. Identification and functional study of an LRR domain containing membrane protein in Litopenaeus vannamei. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2020; 109:103713. [PMID: 32304716 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2020.103713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2020] [Revised: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Leucine-rich repeat (LRR) is a vital structure in some pattern recognition receptors such as TLRs, NLRs and newly reported LRR-containing proteins. Apart from some limited reported LRR-containing proteins, most of LRR proteins, especially immune-related proteins, remain uncharacterized functionally. In the present study, a transmembrane protein containing several LRR motifs, designated as LvLRRm, was identified from the shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei. LvLRRm contained a long signal peptide, one LRRNT region, 12 LRR motifs, one LRRCT region and a transmembrane region. The transcripts of LvLRRm were widely distributed in all tested tissues of shrimp and they were responsive to Vibrio parahaemolyticus infection in several immune-related tissues including Oka, intestine, gill and hemocytes. Knockdown of LvLRRm by dsRNA interference led to a decreased survival rate of shrimp infected by Vibrio parahaemolyticus and an increased in vivo Vibrio propagation. Meanwhile, knockdown of LvLRRm also down-regulated the expression levels of genes involved in antibacterial immune signaling pathways, including the transcription factors LvDorsal and LvRelish, and several antimicrobial peptides. These data suggested that LvLRRm played important roles in shrimp against Vibrio infection, which was probably functioning through activation of antibacterial immune signaling pathways. The present study provided new evidence to elucidate the immune function of LRR-containing proteins in invertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haofang Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Marine Biology, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, 266071, China; Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266237, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Shihao Li
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Marine Biology, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, 266071, China; Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266237, China; Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, 266071, PR China.
| | - Fuxuan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Marine Biology, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Jianhai Xiang
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Marine Biology, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, 266071, China; Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266237, China
| | - Fuhua Li
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Marine Biology, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, 266071, China; Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266237, China; Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, 266071, PR China; The Innovation of Seed Design, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China.
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Patinote C, Karroum NB, Moarbess G, Cirnat N, Kassab I, Bonnet PA, Deleuze-Masquéfa C. Agonist and antagonist ligands of toll-like receptors 7 and 8: Ingenious tools for therapeutic purposes. Eur J Med Chem 2020; 193:112238. [PMID: 32203790 PMCID: PMC7173040 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2020.112238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Revised: 03/11/2020] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The discovery of the TLRs family and more precisely its functions opened a variety of gates to modulate immunological host responses. TLRs 7/8 are located in the endosomal compartment and activate a specific signaling pathway in a MyD88-dependant manner. According to their involvement into various autoimmune, inflammatory and malignant diseases, researchers have designed diverse TLRs 7/8 ligands able to boost or block the inherent signal transduction. These modulators are often small synthetic compounds and most act as agonists and to a much lesser extent as antagonists. Some of them have reached preclinical and clinical trials, and only one has been approved by the FDA and EMA, imiquimod. The key to the success of these modulators probably lies in their combination with other therapies as recently demonstrated. We gather in this review more than 360 scientific publications, reviews and patents, relating the extensive work carried out by researchers on the design of TLRs 7/8 modulators, which are classified firstly by their biological activities (agonist or antagonist) and then by their chemical structures, which total syntheses are not discussed here. This review also reports about 90 clinical cases, thereby showing the biological interest of these modulators in multiple pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cindy Patinote
- IBMM, Université de Montpellier, CNRS, ENSCM, Montpellier, France.
| | - Nour Bou Karroum
- IBMM, Université de Montpellier, CNRS, ENSCM, Montpellier, France; Tumorigenèse et Pharmacologie Antitumorale, Lebanese University, EDST, BP 90656, Fanar Jdeideh, Lebanon
| | - Georges Moarbess
- Tumorigenèse et Pharmacologie Antitumorale, Lebanese University, EDST, BP 90656, Fanar Jdeideh, Lebanon
| | - Natalina Cirnat
- IBMM, Université de Montpellier, CNRS, ENSCM, Montpellier, France
| | - Issam Kassab
- Tumorigenèse et Pharmacologie Antitumorale, Lebanese University, EDST, BP 90656, Fanar Jdeideh, Lebanon
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Croce S, Serdjukow S, Carell T, Frischmuth T. Chemoenzymatic Preparation of Functional Click-Labeled Messenger RNA. Chembiochem 2020; 21:1641-1646. [PMID: 31943671 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.201900718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Synthetic mRNAs are promising candidates for a new class of transformative drugs that provide genetic information for patients' cells to develop their own cure. One key advancement to develop so-called druggable mRNAs was the preparation of chemically modified mRNAs, by replacing standard bases with modified bases, such as uridine with pseudouridine, which can ameliorate the immunogenic profile and translation efficiency of the mRNA. Thus the introduction of modified nucleobases was the foundation for the clinical use of such mRNAs. Herein we describe modular and simple methods to chemoenzymatically modify mRNA. Alkyne- and/or azide-modified nucleotides are enzymatically incorporated into mRNA and subsequently conjugated to fluorescent dyes using click chemistry. This allows visualization of the labeled mRNA inside cells. mRNA coding for the enhanced green fluorescent protein (eGFP) was chosen as a model system and the successful expression of eGFP demonstrated that our modified mRNA is accepted by the translation machinery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Croce
- baseclick GmbH, Floriansbogen 2-4, 82061, Neuried (bei München), Germany
- Department of Chemistry, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Butenandtstrasse 5-13, 81377, München, Germany
| | - Sascha Serdjukow
- baseclick GmbH, Floriansbogen 2-4, 82061, Neuried (bei München), Germany
| | - Thomas Carell
- Department of Chemistry, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Butenandtstrasse 5-13, 81377, München, Germany
| | - Thomas Frischmuth
- baseclick GmbH, Floriansbogen 2-4, 82061, Neuried (bei München), Germany
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46
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Weng Y, Li C, Yang T, Hu B, Zhang M, Guo S, Xiao H, Liang XJ, Huang Y. The challenge and prospect of mRNA therapeutics landscape. Biotechnol Adv 2020; 40:107534. [PMID: 32088327 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2020.107534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 193] [Impact Index Per Article: 48.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2019] [Revised: 02/05/2020] [Accepted: 02/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Messenger RNA (mRNA)-based therapeutics hold the potential to cause a major revolution in the pharmaceutical industry because they can be used for precise and individualized therapy, and enable patients to produce therapeutic proteins in their own bodies without struggling with the comprehensive manufacturing issues associated with recombinant proteins. Compared with the current therapeutics, the production of mRNA is much cost-effective, faster and more flexible because it can be easily produced by in vitro transcription, and the process is independent of mRNA sequence. Moreover, mRNA vaccines allow people to develop personalized medications based on sequencing results and/or personalized conditions rapidly. Along with the great potential from bench to bedside, technical obstacles facing mRNA pharmaceuticals are also obvious. The stability, immunogenicity, translation efficiency, and delivery are all pivotal issues need to be addressed. In the recently published research results, these issues are gradually being overcome by state-of-the-art development technologies. In this review, we describe the structural properties and modification technologies of mRNA, summarize the latest advances in developing mRNA delivery systems, review the preclinical and clinical applications, and put forward our views on the prospect and challenges of developing mRNA into a new class of drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhua Weng
- School of Life Science, Advanced Research Institute of Multidisciplinary Science, Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Institute of Engineering Medicine, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, PR China
| | - Chunhui Li
- School of Life Science, Advanced Research Institute of Multidisciplinary Science, Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Institute of Engineering Medicine, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, PR China
| | - Tongren Yang
- School of Life Science, Advanced Research Institute of Multidisciplinary Science, Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Institute of Engineering Medicine, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, PR China
| | - Bo Hu
- School of Life Science, Advanced Research Institute of Multidisciplinary Science, Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Institute of Engineering Medicine, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, PR China
| | - Mengjie Zhang
- School of Life Science, Advanced Research Institute of Multidisciplinary Science, Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Institute of Engineering Medicine, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, PR China
| | - Shuai Guo
- School of Life Science, Advanced Research Institute of Multidisciplinary Science, Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Institute of Engineering Medicine, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, PR China
| | - Haihua Xiao
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Polymer Physics and Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, PR China
| | - Xing-Jie Liang
- Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology of China, Beijing 100190, PR China
| | - Yuanyu Huang
- School of Life Science, Advanced Research Institute of Multidisciplinary Science, Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Institute of Engineering Medicine, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, PR China.
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47
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Nanomedicines to Deliver mRNA: State of the Art and Future Perspectives. NANOMATERIALS 2020; 10:nano10020364. [PMID: 32093140 PMCID: PMC7075285 DOI: 10.3390/nano10020364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Revised: 02/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The use of messenger RNA (mRNA) in gene therapy is increasing in recent years, due to its unique features compared to plasmid DNA: Transient expression, no need to enter into the nucleus and no risk of insertional mutagenesis. Nevertheless, the clinical application of mRNA as a therapeutic tool is limited by its instability and ability to activate immune responses; hence, mRNA chemical modifications together with the design of suitable vehicles result essential. This manuscript includes a revision of the strategies employed to enhance in vitro transcribed (IVT) mRNA functionality and efficacy, including the optimization of its stability and translational efficiency, as well as the regulation of its immunostimulatory properties. An overview of the nanosystems designed to protect the mRNA and to overcome the intra and extracellular barriers for successful delivery is also included. Finally, the present and future applications of mRNA nanomedicines for immunization against infectious diseases and cancer, protein replacement, gene editing, and regenerative medicine are highlighted.
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Zhang Z, Ohto U, Shibata T, Taoka M, Yamauchi Y, Sato R, Shukla NM, David SA, Isobe T, Miyake K, Shimizu T. Structural Analyses of Toll-like Receptor 7 Reveal Detailed RNA Sequence Specificity and Recognition Mechanism of Agonistic Ligands. Cell Rep 2019; 25:3371-3381.e5. [PMID: 30566863 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2018.11.081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2018] [Revised: 10/08/2018] [Accepted: 11/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Toll-like receptor 7 (TLR7) is an innate immune receptor for single-stranded RNA (ssRNA) and has important roles in infectious diseases. We previously reported that TLR7 shows synergistic activation in response to two ligands, guanosine and ssRNA. However, the specific ssRNA sequence preference, detailed recognition mode of TLR7 and its ligand, and molecular determinants of TLR7 and TLR8 selectivity remain unknown. Here, we report on TLR7 from a large-scale crystallographic study combined with a multifaceted approach. We reveal that successive uridine-containing ssRNAs fully or moderately bind TLR7, whereas single uridine-containing ssRNAs have reduced affinities. We also reveal the detailed relationships between the chemical structures of ligands and their binding to TLR7. We demonstrate that an engineered TLR8 mutant alters its responsiveness to TLR7-specific ligands. Finally, we identify guanosine 2',3'-cyclic phosphate (2',3'-cGMP) as a possible endogenous ligand for TLR7 with greater affinity than guanosine. The abundant structural information will facilitate future development of treatments targeting TLR7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhikuan Zhang
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Umeharu Ohto
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan.
| | - Takuma Shibata
- Division of Innate Immunity, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, 4-6-1 Shirokanedai, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8639, Japan
| | - Masato Taoka
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Tokyo Metropolitan University, Minami-osawa 1-1, Hachioji, Tokyo 192-0397, Japan
| | - Yoshio Yamauchi
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Tokyo Metropolitan University, Minami-osawa 1-1, Hachioji, Tokyo 192-0397, Japan
| | - Ryota Sato
- Division of Innate Immunity, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, 4-6-1 Shirokanedai, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8639, Japan
| | - Nikunj M Shukla
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, 2-132 CCRB, 2231 6th Street SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Sunil A David
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, 2-132 CCRB, 2231 6th Street SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Toshiaki Isobe
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Tokyo Metropolitan University, Minami-osawa 1-1, Hachioji, Tokyo 192-0397, Japan
| | - Kensuke Miyake
- Division of Innate Immunity, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, 4-6-1 Shirokanedai, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8639, Japan
| | - Toshiyuki Shimizu
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan.
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49
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Davenne T, Bridgeman A, Rigby RE, Rehwinkel J. Deoxyguanosine is a TLR7 agonist. Eur J Immunol 2019; 50:56-62. [PMID: 31608988 PMCID: PMC6972671 DOI: 10.1002/eji.201948151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2019] [Revised: 08/08/2019] [Accepted: 10/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Toll‐like receptor 7 (TLR7) is an innate immune sensor for single‐strand RNA (ssRNA). Recent structural analysis revealed that TLR7 has an additional binding site for nucleosides such as guanosine, and is activated when both guanosine and ssRNA bind. The nucleoside binding site also accommodates imidazoquinoline derivatives such as R848, which activate TLR7 in the absence of ssRNA. Here, we report that deoxyguanosine (dG) triggered cytokine production in murine bone marrow derived macrophages and plasmacytoid dendritic cells, as well as in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells, including type I interferons and pro‐inflammatory factors such as TNF and IL‐6. This signalling activity of dG was dependent on TLR7 and its adaptor MyD88 and did not require amplification via the type I interferon receptor. dG‐triggered cytokine production required endosomal maturation but did not depend on the concurrent provision of RNA. We conclude that dG induces an inflammatory response through TLR7 and propose that dG is an RNA‐independent TLR7 agonist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara Davenne
- Medical Research Council Human Immunology Unit, Medical Research Council Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Laboratory for Disease Mechanisms in Cancer, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven and Leuven Cancer Institute (LKI), Leuven, Belgium
| | - Anne Bridgeman
- Medical Research Council Human Immunology Unit, Medical Research Council Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Rachel E Rigby
- Medical Research Council Human Immunology Unit, Medical Research Council Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Jan Rehwinkel
- Medical Research Council Human Immunology Unit, Medical Research Council Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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50
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Hadas Y, Sultana N, Youssef E, Sharkar MTK, Kaur K, Chepurko E, Zangi L. Optimizing Modified mRNA In Vitro Synthesis Protocol for Heart Gene Therapy. MOLECULAR THERAPY-METHODS & CLINICAL DEVELOPMENT 2019; 14:300-305. [PMID: 31508439 PMCID: PMC6722299 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2019.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2019] [Accepted: 07/21/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic modified RNA (modRNA) is a novel vector for gene transfer to the heart and other organs. modRNA can mediate strong, transient protein expression with minimal induction of the innate immune response and risk for genome integration. modRNA is already being used in several human clinical trials, and its use in basic and translational science is growing. Due to the complexity of preparing modRNA and the high cost of its reagents, there is a need for an improved, cost-efficient protocol to make modRNA. Here we show that changing the ratio between anti-reverse cap analog (ARCA) and N1-methyl-pseudouridine (N1mΨ), favoring ARCA over N1mΨ, significantly increases the yield per reaction, improves modRNA translation, and reduces its immunogenicity in vitro. This protocol will make modRNA preparation more accessible and financially affordable for basic and translational research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoav Hadas
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA.,Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA.,Black Family Stem Cell Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Nishat Sultana
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA.,Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA.,Black Family Stem Cell Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Elias Youssef
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA.,Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA.,Black Family Stem Cell Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Mohammad Tofael Kabir Sharkar
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA.,Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA.,Black Family Stem Cell Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Keerat Kaur
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA.,Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA.,Black Family Stem Cell Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Elena Chepurko
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA.,Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA.,Black Family Stem Cell Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Lior Zangi
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA.,Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA.,Black Family Stem Cell Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
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