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Zhang J, Sheng X, Ding Q, Wang Y, Zhao J, Zhang J. Subretinal fibrosis secondary to neovascular age-related macular degeneration: mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:378-393. [PMID: 38819041 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-01642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Subretinal fibrosis is the end-stage sequelae of neovascular age-related macular degeneration. It causes local damage to photoreceptors, retinal pigment epithelium, and choroidal vessels, which leads to permanent central vision loss of patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration. The pathogenesis of subretinal fibrosis is complex, and the underlying mechanisms are largely unknown. Therefore, there are no effective treatment options. A thorough understanding of the pathogenesis of subretinal fibrosis and its related mechanisms is important to elucidate its complications and explore potential treatments. The current article reviews several aspects of subretinal fibrosis, including the current understanding on the relationship between neovascular age-related macular degeneration and subretinal fibrosis; multimodal imaging techniques for subretinal fibrosis; animal models for studying subretinal fibrosis; cellular and non-cellular constituents of subretinal fibrosis; pathophysiological mechanisms involved in subretinal fibrosis, such as aging, infiltration of macrophages, different sources of mesenchymal transition to myofibroblast, and activation of complement system and immune cells; and several key molecules and signaling pathways participating in the pathogenesis of subretinal fibrosis, such as vascular endothelial growth factor, connective tissue growth factor, fibroblast growth factor 2, platelet-derived growth factor and platelet-derived growth factor receptor-β, transforming growth factor-β signaling pathway, Wnt signaling pathway, and the axis of heat shock protein 70-Toll-like receptors 2/4-interleukin-10. This review will improve the understanding of the pathogenesis of subretinal fibrosis, allow the discovery of molecular targets, and explore potential treatments for the management of subretinal fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingxiang Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, People's Hospital of Huangdao District, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Xia Sheng
- Department of Ophthalmology, People's Hospital of Huangdao District, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Quanju Ding
- Department of Ophthalmology, People's Hospital of Huangdao District, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Yujun Wang
- Department of Urology, People's Hospital of Huangdao District, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Jiwei Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, People's Hospital of Huangdao District, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Jingfa Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China
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Owsley C, Swain TA, McGwin G, Bernard MM, Clark ME, Curcio CA. Repeatability of Rod-Mediated Dark Adaptation Testing in Normal Aging and Early and Intermediate Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Curr Eye Res 2024; 49:725-730. [PMID: 38439539 PMCID: PMC11199118 DOI: 10.1080/02713683.2024.2326077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE The vulnerability of rod photoreceptors in aging and early and intermediate age-related macular degeneration (AMD) has been well documented. Rod-mediated dark adaptation (RMDA) is a measure of the recovery of light sensitivity in rod photoreceptors following a bright light. Delays in RMDA during early and intermediate AMD have been widely reported. For RMDA's promise as an outcome for trials targeted at early and intermediate AMD to be realized, excellent test-retest reliability, its repeatability, must be established. METHODS Test-retest performance in a commonly used RMDA test based on the rod intercept time metric (RIT) was evaluated in participants with early and intermediate AMD and with normal retinal aging with testing approximately 2 weeks apart. The test target was placed at 5° eccentricity superior to the foveal center, an area with maximal rod loss in aging and AMD. Disease severity was identified by a trained and masked grader of fundus photographs using both the AREDS 9-step and Beckman classification systems. Bland-Altman plots and intra-class correlation coefficients (ICC) evaluated repeatability. RESULTS The analysis sample consisted of 37 older adults (mean age 76 years, standard deviation 5), with approximately one-third of the sample in each of three groups - normal aging, early AMD, and intermediate AMD. For the total sample, the ICC was 0.98. For individual AMD groups for both AREDS 9-step and Beckman classifications, the ICCs were also very high ranging from 0.82 to 0.99. CONCLUSION We demonstrated that RMDA testing using the RIT metric has excellent repeatability when target location is at 5° in studying older adults from normal aging to intermediate AMD, suggesting the reliable use of this functional measure in trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia Owsley
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Thomas A. Swain
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Gerald McGwin
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Mary Margaret Bernard
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Mark E. Clark
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Christine A. Curcio
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
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Lee Y, Kim D, Chung PED, Lee M, Kim N, Chang J, Lee BC. Pre-Clinical Studies of a Novel Bispecific Fusion Protein Targeting C3b and VEGF in Neovascular and Nonexudative AMD Models. Ophthalmol Ther 2024:10.1007/s40123-024-00982-3. [PMID: 38907092 DOI: 10.1007/s40123-024-00982-3] [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: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION KNP-301 is a bi-specific fragment crystallizable region (Fc) fusion protein, which inhibits both C3b and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) simultaneously for patients with late-stage age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The present study evaluated in vitro potency, in vivo efficacy, intravitreal pharmacokinetics (IVT PK), and injectability of KNP-301. METHODS C3b and VEGF binding of KNP-301 were assessed by surface plasmon resonance (SPR) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and cellular bioassays. A laser-induced choroidal neovascularization (CNV) model and a sodium iodate-induced nonexudative AMD model were used to test the in vivo efficacy of mouse surrogate of KNP-301. Utilizing fluorescein angiography (FA) and spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) scans, the reduction in disease lesions were analyzed in a CNV mouse model. In the nonexudative AMD mouse model, outer nuclear layer (ONL) was assessed by immunofluorescence staining. Lastly, intravitreal pharmacokinetic study was conducted with New Zealand white rabbits via IVT administration of KNP-301 and injectability of KNP-301 was examined by a viscosity test at high concentrations. RESULTS KNP-301 bound C3b selectively, which resulted in a blockade of the alternative pathway, not the classical pathway. KNP-301 also acted as a VEGF trap, impeding VEGF-mediate signaling. Our dual-blockade strategy was effective in both neovascular and nonexudative AMD models. Moreover, KNP-301 had an advantage of potentially less frequent dosing due to the long half-life in the intravitreal chamber. Our viscosity assessment confirmed that KNP-301 meets the criteria of the IVT injection. CONCLUSIONS Unlike current therapies, KNP-301 is expected to cover patients with late-stage AMD of both neovascular and nonexudative AMD, and its long-term PK profile at the intravitreal chamber would allow convenience in the dosing interval of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeri Lee
- KANAPH Therapeutics Inc., 3, Itaewon-ro 55ga-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Donggeon Kim
- KANAPH Therapeutics Inc., 3, Itaewon-ro 55ga-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Philip E D Chung
- KANAPH Therapeutics Inc., 3, Itaewon-ro 55ga-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Minkyeong Lee
- KANAPH Therapeutics Inc., 3, Itaewon-ro 55ga-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Nahmju Kim
- KANAPH Therapeutics Inc., 3, Itaewon-ro 55ga-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jihoon Chang
- KANAPH Therapeutics Inc., 3, Itaewon-ro 55ga-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Byoung Chul Lee
- KANAPH Therapeutics Inc., 3, Itaewon-ro 55ga-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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Santarpia G, Carnes E. Therapeutic Applications of Aptamers. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6742. [PMID: 38928448 PMCID: PMC11204156 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25126742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2024] [Revised: 06/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Affinity reagents, or target-binding molecules, are quite versatile and are major workhorses in molecular biology and medicine. Antibodies are the most famous and frequently used type and they have been used for a wide range of applications, including laboratory techniques, diagnostics, and therapeutics. However, antibodies are not the only available affinity reagents and they do have significant drawbacks, including laborious and costly production. Aptamers are one potential alternative that have a variety of unique advantages. They are single stranded DNA or RNA molecules that can be selected for binding to many targets including proteins, carbohydrates, and small molecules-for which antibodies typically have low affinity. There are also a variety of cost-effective methods for producing and modifying nucleic acids in vitro without cells, whereas antibodies typically require cells or even whole animals. While there are also significant drawbacks to using aptamers in therapeutic applications, including low in vivo stability, aptamers have had success in clinical trials for treating a variety of diseases and two aptamer-based drugs have gained FDA approval. Aptamer development is still ongoing, which could lead to additional applications of aptamer therapeutics, including antitoxins, and combinatorial approaches with nanoparticles and other nucleic acid therapeutics that could improve efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Santarpia
- College of Public Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Eric Carnes
- College of Public Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
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Yang S, Kim SH, Yang E, Kang M, Joo JY. Molecular insights into regulatory RNAs in the cellular machinery. Exp Mol Med 2024:10.1038/s12276-024-01239-6. [PMID: 38871819 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-024-01239-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024] Open
Abstract
It is apparent that various functional units within the cellular machinery are derived from RNAs. The evolution of sequencing techniques has resulted in significant insights into approaches for transcriptome studies. Organisms utilize RNA to govern cellular systems, and a heterogeneous class of RNAs is involved in regulatory functions. In particular, regulatory RNAs are increasingly recognized to participate in intricately functioning machinery across almost all levels of biological systems. These systems include those mediating chromatin arrangement, transcription, suborganelle stabilization, and posttranscriptional modifications. Any class of RNA exhibiting regulatory activity can be termed a class of regulatory RNA and is typically represented by noncoding RNAs, which constitute a substantial portion of the genome. These RNAs function based on the principle of structural changes through cis and/or trans regulation to facilitate mutual RNA‒RNA, RNA‒DNA, and RNA‒protein interactions. It has not been clearly elucidated whether regulatory RNAs identified through deep sequencing actually function in the anticipated mechanisms. This review addresses the dominant properties of regulatory RNAs at various layers of the cellular machinery and covers regulatory activities, structural dynamics, modifications, associated molecules, and further challenges related to therapeutics and deep learning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumin Yang
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Hanyang University, Ansan, Gyeonggi-do, 15588, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Hyun Kim
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Hanyang University, Ansan, Gyeonggi-do, 15588, Republic of Korea
| | - Eunjeong Yang
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Hanyang University, Ansan, Gyeonggi-do, 15588, Republic of Korea
| | - Mingon Kang
- Department of Computer Science, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV, 89154, USA
| | - Jae-Yeol Joo
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Hanyang University, Ansan, Gyeonggi-do, 15588, Republic of Korea.
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Ong J, Zarnegar A, Selvam A, Driban M, Chhablani J. The Complement System as a Therapeutic Target in Retinal Disease. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2024; 60:945. [PMID: 38929562 PMCID: PMC11205777 DOI: 10.3390/medicina60060945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2024] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
The complement cascade is a vital system in the human body's defense against pathogens. During the natural aging process, it has been observed that this system is imperative for ensuring the integrity and homeostasis of the retina. While this system is critical for proper host defense and retinal integrity, it has also been found that dysregulation of this system may lead to certain retinal pathologies, including geographic atrophy and diabetic retinopathy. Targeting components of the complement system for retinal diseases has been an area of interest, and in vivo, ex vivo, and clinical trials have been conducted in this area. Following clinical trials, medications targeting the complement system for retinal disease have also become available. In this manuscript, we discuss the pathophysiology of complement dysfunction in the retina and specific pathologies. We then describe the results of cellular, animal, and clinical studies targeting the complement system for retinal diseases. We then provide an overview of complement inhibitors that have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for geographic atrophy. The complement system in retinal diseases continues to serve as an emerging therapeutic target, and further research in this field will provide additional insights into the mechanisms and considerations for treatment of retinal pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Ong
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Michigan Kellogg Eye Center, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
| | - Arman Zarnegar
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Amrish Selvam
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Matthew Driban
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Jay Chhablani
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
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7
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Brito M, Sorbier C, Mignet N, Boudy V, Borchard G, Vacher G. Understanding the Impact of Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids on Age-Related Macular Degeneration: A Review. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4099. [PMID: 38612907 PMCID: PMC11012607 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25074099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2024] [Revised: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a multifactorial ocular pathology that destroys the photoreceptors of the macula. Two forms are distinguished, dry and wet AMD, with different pathophysiological mechanisms. Although treatments were shown to be effective in wet AMD, they remain a heavy burden for patients and caregivers, resulting in a lack of patient compliance. For dry AMD, no real effective treatment is available in Europe. It is, therefore, essential to look for new approaches. Recently, the use of long-chain and very long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids was identified as an interesting new therapeutic alternative. Indeed, the levels of these fatty acids, core components of photoreceptors, are significantly decreased in AMD patients. To better understand this pathology and to evaluate the efficacy of various molecules, in vitro and in vivo models reproducing the mechanisms of both types of AMD were developed. This article reviews the anatomy and the physiological aging of the retina and summarizes the clinical aspects, pathophysiological mechanisms of AMD and potential treatment strategies. In vitro and in vivo models of AMD are also presented. Finally, this manuscript focuses on the application of omega-3 fatty acids for the prevention and treatment of both types of AMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maëlis Brito
- Unither Développement Bordeaux, Avenue Toussaint Catros, 33185 Le Haillan, France
- Université Paris Cité, CNRS, INSERM, UTCBS, Unité de Technologies Chimiques et Biologiques pour la Santé, F-75006 Paris, France
- Département de Recherche et Développement (DRDP), Agence Générale des Equipements et Produits de Santé (AGEPS), Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), 7 Rue du Fer-à-Moulin, 75005 Paris, France
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Western Switzerland (ISPSO), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Geneva, Rue Michel-Servet 1, 1206 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Capucine Sorbier
- Unither Développement Bordeaux, Avenue Toussaint Catros, 33185 Le Haillan, France
| | - Nathalie Mignet
- Université Paris Cité, CNRS, INSERM, UTCBS, Unité de Technologies Chimiques et Biologiques pour la Santé, F-75006 Paris, France
| | - Vincent Boudy
- Université Paris Cité, CNRS, INSERM, UTCBS, Unité de Technologies Chimiques et Biologiques pour la Santé, F-75006 Paris, France
- Département de Recherche et Développement (DRDP), Agence Générale des Equipements et Produits de Santé (AGEPS), Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), 7 Rue du Fer-à-Moulin, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Gerrit Borchard
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Western Switzerland (ISPSO), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Geneva, Rue Michel-Servet 1, 1206 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Gaëlle Vacher
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Western Switzerland (ISPSO), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Geneva, Rue Michel-Servet 1, 1206 Geneva, Switzerland
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Somers FM, Malek G. Estrogen related receptor alpha: Potential modulator of age-related macular degeneration. Curr Opin Pharmacol 2024; 75:102439. [PMID: 38447458 PMCID: PMC10947805 DOI: 10.1016/j.coph.2024.102439] [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: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 01/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
To develop effective therapies for complex blinding diseases such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), identification of mechanisms involved in its initiation and progression is needed. The estrogen-related receptor alpha (ESRRA) is an orphan nuclear receptor that regulates several AMD-associated pathogenic pathways. However, it has not been investigated in detail in the ocular posterior pole during aging or in AMD. This review delves into the literature highlighting the significance of ESRRA as a molecular target that may be important in the pathobiology of AMD, and discusses data available supporting the targeting of this receptor signaling pathway as a therapeutic option for AMD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Goldis Malek
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA; Department of Pathology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA.
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Zheng L, Wang W, Sun Q. Targeted drug approvals in 2023: breakthroughs by the FDA and NMPA. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:46. [PMID: 38378623 PMCID: PMC10879080 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01770-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Lang Zheng
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Wenjing Wang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
- West China Medical Publishers, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| | - Qiu Sun
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
- West China Medical Publishers, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
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Al Shaer D, Al Musaimi O, Albericio F, de la Torre BG. 2023 FDA TIDES (Peptides and Oligonucleotides) Harvest. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:243. [PMID: 38399458 PMCID: PMC10893093 DOI: 10.3390/ph17020243] [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: 01/20/2024] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
A total of nine TIDES (pepTIDES and oligonucleoTIDES) were approved by the FDA during 2023. The four approved oligonucleotides are indicated for various types of disorders, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, geographic atrophy, primary hyperoxaluria type 1, and polyneuropathy of hereditary transthyretin-mediated amyloidosis. All oligonucleotides show chemically modified structures to enhance their stability and therapeutic effectiveness as antisense or aptamer oligomers. Some of them demonstrate various types of conjugation to driving ligands. The approved peptides comprise various structures, including linear, cyclic, and lipopeptides, and have diverse applications. Interestingly, the FDA has granted its first orphan drug designation for a peptide-based drug as a highly selective chemokine antagonist. Furthermore, Rett syndrome has found its first-ever core symptoms treatment, which is also peptide-based. Here, we analyze the TIDES approved in 2023 on the basis of their chemical structure, medical target, mode of action, administration route, and common adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danah Al Shaer
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Evotec (UK) Ltd., Abingdon OX14 4R, UK
| | - Othman Al Musaimi
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RU, UK
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Fernando Albericio
- School of Chemistry and Physics, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4001, South Africa
- CIBER-BBN, Networking Centre on Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine, Department of Organic Chemistry, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Beatriz G de la Torre
- KRISP, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4001, South Africa
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Martinez Villarruel Hinnerskov J, Krogh Nielsen M, Kai Thomsen A, Steffensen MA, Honoré B, Vorum H, Nissen MH, Sørensen TL. Chemokine Receptor Profile of T Cells and Progression Rate of Geographic Atrophy Secondary to Age-related Macular Degeneration. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2024; 65:5. [PMID: 38165703 PMCID: PMC10768715 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.65.1.5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose Geographic atrophy (GA) secondary to age-related macular degeneration is a progressive retinal degenerative disease. Systemic chemokine receptors and known risk-associated single-nucleotide polymorphisms have been associated with GA pathogenesis. Because halting progression is pivotal for patients, we investigated the association of candidate chemokine receptors and progression rate (PR) of atrophic lesions in patients with GA. Methods This prospective observational study conducted at a single center included 85 patients with GA and 45 healthy controls. Patients were followed up after 13 months on average. Serial fundus autofluorescence images were used to determine the PR of atrophic lesions. The proportion of chemokine receptors on peripheral lymphocytes were determined by flow cytometric analysis. Results Patients with GA had a lower proportion of CCR6 on CD8+T cells compared to healthy controls. Importantly, the proportion of CCR6 on CD4+T cells was lower in patients with fast GA progression compared to patients with slow progression of disease, suggesting that dysregulation of CCR6 could be involved in progression of GA. We also found that GA patients had a markedly higher percentage of CCR5 on CD4+ and CD8+T cells compared to healthy controls. After stratification according to ARMS2 polymorphism, we found a significantly lower level of CCR5 on CD8+T cells among patients with high-risk genotypes compared with patients with the low-risk genotype. Conclusions Our study finds that chemokine receptors are dysregulated in patients with GA and that CCR6 might be involved in GA progression, making it a potential target for intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenni Martinez Villarruel Hinnerskov
- Department of Ophthalmology, Zealand University Hospital, Roskilde, Denmark
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Alexander Kai Thomsen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Zealand University Hospital, Roskilde, Denmark
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Bent Honoré
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Henrik Vorum
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
- Department of Ophthalmology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Mogens Holst Nissen
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Torben Lykke Sørensen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Zealand University Hospital, Roskilde, Denmark
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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12
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Collotta D, Bertocchi I, Chiapello E, Collino M. Antisense oligonucleotides: a novel Frontier in pharmacological strategy. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1304342. [PMID: 38044945 PMCID: PMC10690781 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1304342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) are short single stranded synthetic RNA or DNA molecules, whereas double-stranded RNA nucleotide sequences are called small interfering RNA (siRNA). ASOs bind to complementary nucleic acid sequences impacting the associated functions of the targeted nucleic acids. They represent an emerging class of drugs that, through a revolutionary mechanism of action, aim to directly regulate disease-causing genes and their variants, providing an alternative tool to traditional "protein-specific" therapies. The majority of the ASOs are designed to treat orphan genetic disorders that in most of the cases are seriously disabling and still lacking an adequate therapy. In order to translate ASOs into clinical success, constant technological advances have been instrumental in overcoming several pharmacological, toxicological and formulation limitations. Accordingly, chemical structures have been recently implemented and new bio-conjugation and nanocarriers formulation strategies explored. The aim of this work is to offer an overview of the antisense technology with a comparative analysis of the oligonucleotides approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA).
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Affiliation(s)
- D. Collotta
- Department of Neuroscience Rita Levi Montalcini, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - I. Bertocchi
- Department of Neuroscience Rita Levi Montalcini, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi (NICO), University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - E. Chiapello
- Department of Neuroscience Rita Levi Montalcini, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - M. Collino
- Department of Neuroscience Rita Levi Montalcini, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
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Hass DT, Pandey K, Engel A, Horton N, Robbings BM, Lim R, Sadilek M, Zhang Q, Autterson GA, Miller JML, Chao JR, Hurley JB. Acetyl-CoA carboxylase Inhibition increases RPE cell fatty acid oxidation and limits apolipoprotein efflux. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.11.07.566117. [PMID: 37986876 PMCID: PMC10659357 DOI: 10.1101/2023.11.07.566117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
Purpose In age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and Sorsby's fundus dystrophy (SFD), lipid-rich deposits known as drusen accumulate under the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). Drusen may contribute to photoreceptor and RPE degeneration in AMD and SFD. We hypothesize that stimulating β-oxidation in RPE will reduce drusen accumulation. Inhibitors of acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC) stimulate β-oxidation and diminish lipid accumulation in fatty liver disease. In this report we test the hypothesis that an ACC inhibitor, Firsocostat, limits the accumulation of lipid deposits in cultured RPE cells. Methods We probed metabolism and cellular function in mouse RPE-choroid, human fetal- derived RPE cells, and induced pluripotent stem cell-derived RPE cells. We used 13 C6-glucose and 13 C16-palmitate to determine the effects of Firsocostat on glycolytic, Krebs cycle, and fatty acid metabolism. 13 C labeling of metabolites in these pathways were analyzed using gas chromatography-linked mass spectrometry. We quantified ApoE and VEGF release using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. Immunostaining of sectioned RPE was used to visualize ApoE deposits. RPE function was assessed by measuring the trans-epithelial electrical resistance (TEER). Results ACC inhibition with Firsocostat increases fatty acid oxidation and remodels lipid composition, glycolytic metabolism, lipoprotein release, and enhances TEER. When human serum is used to induce sub-RPE lipoprotein accumulation, fewer lipoproteins accumulate with Firsocostat. In a culture model of Sorsby's fundus dystrophy, Firsocostat also stimulates fatty acid oxidation, improves morphology, and increases TEER. Conclusions Firsocostat remodels intracellular metabolism and improves RPE resilience to serum-induced lipid deposition. This effect of ACC inhibition suggests that it could be an effective strategy for diminishing drusen accumulation in the eyes of patients with AMD.
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