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Brown A, Brill J, Amini R, Nurmi C, Li Y. Development of Better Aptamers: Structured Library Approaches, Selection Methods, and Chemical Modifications. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024; 63:e202318665. [PMID: 38253971 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202318665] [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: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
Systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment (SELEX) has been used to discover thousands of aptamers since its development in 1990. Aptamers are short single-stranded oligonucleotides capable of binding to targets with high specificity and selectivity through structural recognition. While aptamers offer advantages over other molecular recognition elements such as their ease of production, smaller size, extended shelf-life, and lower immunogenicity, they have yet to show significant success in real-world applications. By analyzing the importance of structured library designs, reviewing different SELEX methodologies, and the effects of chemical modifications, we provide a comprehensive overview on the production of aptamers for applications in drug delivery systems, therapeutics, diagnostics, and molecular imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex Brown
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, Ontario, L8S 4 K1, Canada
| | - Jake Brill
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, Ontario, L8S 4 K1, Canada
| | - Ryan Amini
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, Ontario, L8S 4 K1, Canada
| | - Connor Nurmi
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, Ontario, L8S 4 K1, Canada
| | - Yingfu Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, Ontario, L8S 4 K1, Canada
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2
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Graczyk A, Radzikowska-Cieciura E, Kaczmarek R, Pawlowska R, Chworos A. Modified Nucleotides for Chemical and Enzymatic Synthesis of Therapeutic RNA. Curr Med Chem 2023; 30:1320-1347. [PMID: 36239720 DOI: 10.2174/0929867330666221014111403] [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: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, RNA has emerged as a medium with a broad spectrum of therapeutic potential, however, for years, a group of short RNA fragments was studied and considered therapeutic molecules. In nature, RNA plays both functions, with coding and non-coding potential. For RNA, like any other therapeutic, to be used clinically, certain barriers must be crossed. Among them, there are biocompatibility, relatively low toxicity, bioavailability, increased stability, target efficiency and low off-target effects. In the case of RNA, most of these obstacles can be overcome by incorporating modified nucleotides into its structure. This may be achieved by both, in vitro and in vivo biosynthetic methods, as well as chemical synthesis. Some advantages and disadvantages of each approach are summarized here. The wide range of nucleotide analogues has been tested for their utility as monomers for RNA synthesis. Many of them have been successfully implemented, and a lot of pre-clinical and clinical studies involving modified RNA have been carried out. Some of these medications have already been introduced into clinics. After the huge success of RNA-based vaccines that were introduced into widespread use in 2020, and the introduction to the market of some RNA-based drugs, RNA therapeutics containing modified nucleotides appear to be the future of medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Graczyk
- Department of Bioorganic Chemistry, Centre of Molecular and Macromolecular Studies, Polish Academy of Sciences, Sienkiewicza 112, 90-363 Lodz, Poland
| | - Ewa Radzikowska-Cieciura
- Department of Bioorganic Chemistry, Centre of Molecular and Macromolecular Studies, Polish Academy of Sciences, Sienkiewicza 112, 90-363 Lodz, Poland
| | - Renata Kaczmarek
- Department of Bioorganic Chemistry, Centre of Molecular and Macromolecular Studies, Polish Academy of Sciences, Sienkiewicza 112, 90-363 Lodz, Poland
| | - Roza Pawlowska
- Department of Bioorganic Chemistry, Centre of Molecular and Macromolecular Studies, Polish Academy of Sciences, Sienkiewicza 112, 90-363 Lodz, Poland
| | - Arkadiusz Chworos
- Department of Bioorganic Chemistry, Centre of Molecular and Macromolecular Studies, Polish Academy of Sciences, Sienkiewicza 112, 90-363 Lodz, Poland
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3
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Epple S, El-Sagheer AH, Brown T. Artificial nucleic acid backbones and their applications in therapeutics, synthetic biology and biotechnology. Emerg Top Life Sci 2021; 5:691-697. [PMID: 34297063 PMCID: PMC8726046 DOI: 10.1042/etls20210169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [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: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The modification of DNA or RNA backbones is an emerging technology for therapeutic oligonucleotides, synthetic biology and biotechnology. Despite a plethora of reported artificial backbones, their vast potential is not fully utilised. Limited synthetic accessibility remains a major bottleneck for the wider application of backbone-modified oligonucleotides. Thus, a variety of readily accessible artificial backbones and robust methods for their introduction into oligonucleotides are urgently needed to utilise their full potential in therapeutics, synthetic biology and biotechnology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sven Epple
- Chemistry Research Laboratory, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3TA, U.K
| | - Afaf H. El-Sagheer
- Chemistry Research Laboratory, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3TA, U.K
- Chemistry Branch, Department of Science and Mathematics, Faculty of Petroleum and Mining Engineering, Suez University, Suez 43721, Egypt
| | - Tom Brown
- Chemistry Research Laboratory, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3TA, U.K
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4
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Baraniak D, Boryski J. Triazole-Modified Nucleic Acids for the Application in Bioorganic and Medicinal Chemistry. Biomedicines 2021; 9:628. [PMID: 34073038 PMCID: PMC8229351 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9060628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Revised: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
This review covers studies which exploit triazole-modified nucleic acids in the range of chemistry and biology to medicine. The 1,2,3-triazole unit, which is obtained via click chemistry approach, shows valuable and unique properties. For example, it does not occur in nature, constitutes an additional pharmacophore with attractive properties being resistant to hydrolysis and other reactions at physiological pH, exhibits biological activity (i.e., antibacterial, antitumor, and antiviral), and can be considered as a rigid mimetic of amide linkage. Herein, it is presented a whole area of useful artificial compounds, from the clickable monomers and dimers to modified oligonucleotides, in the field of nucleic acids sciences. Such modifications of internucleotide linkages are designed to increase the hybridization binding affinity toward native DNA or RNA, to enhance resistance to nucleases, and to improve ability to penetrate cell membranes. The insertion of an artificial backbone is used for understanding effects of chemically modified oligonucleotides, and their potential usefulness in therapeutic applications. We describe the state-of-the-art knowledge on their implications for synthetic genes and other large modified DNA and RNA constructs including non-coding RNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dagmara Baraniak
- Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Noskowskiego 12/14, 61-704 Poznan, Poland;
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5
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Odeh F, Nsairat H, Alshaer W, Ismail MA, Esawi E, Qaqish B, Bawab AA, Ismail SI. Aptamers Chemistry: Chemical Modifications and Conjugation Strategies. Molecules 2019; 25:E3. [PMID: 31861277 PMCID: PMC6982925 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25010003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 180] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2019] [Revised: 12/14/2019] [Accepted: 12/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Soon after they were first described in 1990, aptamers were largely recognized as a new class of biological ligands that can rival antibodies in various analytical, diagnostic, and therapeutic applications. Aptamers are short single-stranded RNA or DNA oligonucleotides capable of folding into complex 3D structures, enabling them to bind to a large variety of targets ranging from small ions to an entire organism. Their high binding specificity and affinity make them comparable to antibodies, but they are superior regarding a longer shelf life, simple production and chemical modification, in addition to low toxicity and immunogenicity. In the past three decades, aptamers have been used in a plethora of therapeutics and drug delivery systems that involve innovative delivery mechanisms and carrying various types of drug cargos. However, the successful translation of aptamer research from bench to bedside has been challenged by several limitations that slow down the realization of promising aptamer applications as therapeutics at the clinical level. The main limitations include the susceptibility to degradation by nucleases, fast renal clearance, low thermal stability, and the limited functional group diversity. The solution to overcome such limitations lies in the chemistry of aptamers. The current review will focus on the recent arts of aptamer chemistry that have been evolved to refine the pharmacological properties of aptamers. Moreover, this review will analyze the advantages and disadvantages of such chemical modifications and how they impact the pharmacological properties of aptamers. Finally, this review will summarize the conjugation strategies of aptamers to nanocarriers for developing targeted drug delivery systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fadwa Odeh
- Faculty of Science, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan; (F.O.); (H.N.); (A.A.B.)
- Hamdi Mango Center for Scientific Research, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
| | - Hamdi Nsairat
- Faculty of Science, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan; (F.O.); (H.N.); (A.A.B.)
| | - Walhan Alshaer
- Cell Therapy Center, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
| | - Mohammad A. Ismail
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan; (M.A.I.); (E.E.); (B.Q.); (S.I.I.)
| | - Ezaldeen Esawi
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan; (M.A.I.); (E.E.); (B.Q.); (S.I.I.)
| | - Baraa Qaqish
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan; (M.A.I.); (E.E.); (B.Q.); (S.I.I.)
| | - Abeer Al Bawab
- Faculty of Science, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan; (F.O.); (H.N.); (A.A.B.)
- Hamdi Mango Center for Scientific Research, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
| | - Said I. Ismail
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan; (M.A.I.); (E.E.); (B.Q.); (S.I.I.)
- Qatar Genome Project, Qatar Foundation, Doha 5825, Qatar
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6
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Yan J, Xiong H, Cai S, Wen N, He Q, Liu Y, Peng D, Liu Z. Advances in aptamer screening technologies. Talanta 2019; 200:124-144. [DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2019.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2018] [Revised: 02/20/2019] [Accepted: 03/02/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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7
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Cai S, Yan J, Xiong H, Liu Y, Peng D, Liu Z. Investigations on the interface of nucleic acid aptamers and binding targets. Analyst 2019; 143:5317-5338. [PMID: 30357118 DOI: 10.1039/c8an01467a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 161] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Nucleic acid aptamers are single-stranded DNA or RNA of 20-100 nucleotides in length that have attracted substantial scientific interest due to their ability to specifically bind to target molecules via the formation of three-dimensional structures. Compared to traditional protein antibodies, aptamers have several advantages, such as their small size, high binding affinity, specificity, flexible structure, being chemical synthesizable and modifiable, good biocompatibility, high stability and low immunogenicity, which all contribute to their widely applications in the biomedical field. To date, much progress has been made in the study and applications of aptamers, however, detailed information on how aptamers bind to their targets is still scarce. Over the past few decades, many methods have been introduced to investigate the aptamer-target binding process, such as measuring the main kinetic or thermodynamic parameters, detecting the structural changes of the binding complexes, etc. Apart from traditional physicochemical methods, various types of molecular docking programs have been applied to simulate the aptamer-target interactions, while these simulations also have limitations. To facilitate the further research on the interactions, herein, we provide a brief review to illustrate the recent advances in the study of aptamer-target interactions. We summarize the binding targets of aptamers, such as small molecules, macromolecules, and even cells. Their binding constants (KD) are also summarized. Methods to probe the aptamer-target binding process, such as surface plasmon resonance (SPR), circular dichroism spectroscopy (CD), isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC), footprinting assay, truncation and mutation assay, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR), X-ray crystallography and molecular docking simulation are indicated. The binding forces mediating the aptamer-target interactions, such as hydrogen bonding, electrostatic interaction, the hydrophobic effect, π-π stacking and van der Waals forces are summarized. The challenges and future perspectives are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shundong Cai
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, PR China.
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8
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Antipova OM, Zavyalova EG, Golovin AV, Pavlova GV, Kopylov AM, Reshetnikov RV. Advances in the Application of Modified Nucleotides in SELEX Technology. BIOCHEMISTRY (MOSCOW) 2018; 83:1161-1172. [PMID: 30472954 DOI: 10.1134/s0006297918100024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Aptamers are widely used as molecular recognition elements for detecting and blocking functional biological molecules. Since the common "alphabet" of DNA and RNA consists of only four letters, the chemical diversity of aptamers is less than the diversity of protein recognition elements built of 20 amino acids. Chemical modification of nucleotides enlarges the potential of DNA/RNA aptamers. This review describes the latest achievements in a variety of approaches to aptamers selection with an extended genetic alphabet.
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Affiliation(s)
- O M Antipova
- Lomonosov Moscow State University, Faculty of Chemistry, Moscow, 119991, Russia. .,Apto-Pharm Ltd., Moscow, 115564, Russia
| | - E G Zavyalova
- Lomonosov Moscow State University, Faculty of Chemistry, Moscow, 119991, Russia.,Apto-Pharm Ltd., Moscow, 115564, Russia
| | - A V Golovin
- Apto-Pharm Ltd., Moscow, 115564, Russia.,Lomonosov Moscow State University, Faculty of Bioengineering and Bioinformatics, Moscow, 119234, Russia.,Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Institute of Molecular Medicine, Moscow, 119991, Russia
| | - G V Pavlova
- Apto-Pharm Ltd., Moscow, 115564, Russia.,Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Institute of Molecular Medicine, Moscow, 119991, Russia.,Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119334, Russia.,Burdenko National Scientific and Practical Center for Neurosurgery, Ministry of Healthcare of the Russian Federation, Moscow, 125047, Russia
| | - A M Kopylov
- Lomonosov Moscow State University, Faculty of Chemistry, Moscow, 119991, Russia.,Apto-Pharm Ltd., Moscow, 115564, Russia
| | - R V Reshetnikov
- Apto-Pharm Ltd., Moscow, 115564, Russia.,Lomonosov Moscow State University, Faculty of Bioengineering and Bioinformatics, Moscow, 119234, Russia.,Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Institute of Molecular Medicine, Moscow, 119991, Russia.,Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119334, Russia
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9
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Sharma VK, Singh SK, Krishnamurthy PM, Alterman JF, Haraszti RA, Khvorova A, Prasad AK, Watts JK. Synthesis and biological properties of triazole-linked locked nucleic acid. Chem Commun (Camb) 2018; 53:8906-8909. [PMID: 28736781 DOI: 10.1039/c7cc04092j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
We have synthesized and studied the biological and biophysical properties of triazole-linked ribo and xylo locked nucleic acid (LNA). The combination of LNA with the Isobe triazole linkage gave high binding affinity when incorporated at the 3' or 5' termini of oligonucleotides, but low binding affinity at internal positions. Antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) and siRNAs containing triazole dimers were highly active and nuclease resistant. Surprisingly, the xyloLNA-modified siRNA was the most active of the series.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivek K Sharma
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA.
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10
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Chemical Modifications of Nucleic Acid Aptamers for Therapeutic Purposes. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18081683. [PMID: 28767098 PMCID: PMC5578073 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18081683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 193] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2017] [Revised: 07/27/2017] [Accepted: 08/01/2017] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Nucleic acid aptamers have minimal immunogenicity, high chemical synthesis production, low cost and high chemical stability when compared with antibodies. However, the susceptibility to nuclease degradation, rapid excretion through renal filtration and insufficient binding affinity hindered their development as drug candidates for therapeutic applications. In this review, we will discuss methods to conquer these challenges and highlight recent developments of chemical modifications and technological advances that may enable early aptamers to be translated into clinical therapeutics.
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11
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Jordan BC, Kumar B, Thilagavathi R, Yadhav A, Kumar P, Selvam C. Synthesis, evaluation of cytotoxic properties of promising curcumin analogues and investigation of possible molecular mechanisms. Chem Biol Drug Des 2017. [PMID: 28649799 DOI: 10.1111/cbdd.13061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Curcumin is a popular, plant-derived compound that has been extensively investigated for diverse range of biological activities. Anticancer activity against various types of cancers and high-safety profile associated with curcumin makes it very attractive. In this study, we report the synthesis and evaluation of pyrazole and click chemistry curcumin analogues for Head and Neck cancer. MTT assay against head and neck cancer cell lines CAL27 and UM-SCC-74A revealed the micromolar potency of the synthesized compounds. To determine the possible molecular mechanisms, effect of these analogues in the expression of pSTAT3, pFAK, pERK1/2 and pAKT was studied. Interestingly, compounds 2 and 5 significantly inhibited the pSTAT3 (Tyr 705) phosphorylation. As far as other compounds, they showed potent cytotoxicity against CAL27; however, these compounds did not show any activity on pSTAT3 phosphorylation at IC50 concentration level. Molecular docking studies revealed the possible binding mode of pyrazole compound 2 in the SH2 domain of STAT3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian C Jordan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Texas Southern University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Bhavna Kumar
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Ramasamy Thilagavathi
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Engineering, Karpagam University, Coimbatore, India
| | - Arti Yadhav
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Pawan Kumar
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Chelliah Selvam
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Texas Southern University, Houston, TX, USA
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12
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Warminski M, Kowalska J, Jemielity J. Synthesis of RNA 5'-Azides from 2'-O-Pivaloyloxymethyl-Protected RNAs and Their Reactivity in Azide-Alkyne Cycloaddition Reactions. Org Lett 2017. [PMID: 28636394 DOI: 10.1021/acs.orglett.7b01591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Commercially available 2'-O-pivaloyloxymethyl (PivOM) phosphoramidites were employed in an SPS protocol for RNA 5' azides. The utility of the N3-RNAs in CuAAC and SPAAC was demonstrated by RNA 5' labeling, chemical ligation including fragment joining and cyclization, and bioconjugation. As a result, several new RNA conjugates that may be valuable tools for studies on biological events such as innate immune response (cyclic dinucleotides), post-transcriptional gene regulation (circular RNAs), or mRNA turnover (m7G capped RNAs) were obtained.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcin Warminski
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw , Pasteura 5, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Joanna Kowalska
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw , Pasteura 5, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jacek Jemielity
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw , Banacha 2c, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
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13
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Walczak S, Nowicka A, Kubacka D, Fac K, Wanat P, Mroczek S, Kowalska J, Jemielity J. A novel route for preparing 5' cap mimics and capped RNAs: phosphate-modified cap analogues obtained via click chemistry. Chem Sci 2017; 8:260-267. [PMID: 28451173 PMCID: PMC5355871 DOI: 10.1039/c6sc02437h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2016] [Accepted: 08/10/2016] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The significant biological role of the mRNA 5' cap in translation initiation makes it an interesting subject for chemical modifications aimed at producing useful tools for the selective modulation of intercellular processes and development of novel therapeutic interventions. However, traditional approaches to the chemical synthesis of cap analogues are time-consuming and labour-intensive, which impedes the development of novel compounds and their applications. Here, we explore a different approach for synthesizing 5' cap mimics, making use of click chemistry (CuAAC) to combine two mononucleotide units and yield a novel class of dinucleotide cap analogues containing a triazole ring within the oligophosphate chain. As a result, we synthesized a library of 36 mRNA cap analogues differing in the location of the triazole ring, the polyphosphate chain length, and the type of linkers joining the phosphate and the triazole moieties. After biochemical evaluation, we identified two analogues that, when incorporated into mRNA, produced transcripts translated with efficiency similar to compounds unmodified in the oligophosphate bridge obtained by traditional synthesis. Moreover, we demonstrated that the triazole-modified cap structures can be generated at the RNA 5' end using two alternative capping strategies: either the typical co-transcriptional approach, or a new post-transcriptional approach based on CuAAC. Our findings open new possibilities for developing chemically modified mRNAs for research and therapeutic applications, including RNA-based vaccinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylwia Walczak
- Centre of New Technologies , University of Warsaw , Banacha 2c , 02-097 , Warsaw , Poland .
- College of Inter-Faculty Individual Studies in Mathematics and Natural Sciences , University of Warsaw , Banacha 2c , 02-097 , Warsaw , Poland
| | - Anna Nowicka
- Centre of New Technologies , University of Warsaw , Banacha 2c , 02-097 , Warsaw , Poland .
- Division of Biophysics , Institute of Experimental Physics , Faculty of Physics , University of Warsaw , Zwirki i Wigury 93 , 02-089 , Warsaw , Poland
| | - Dorota Kubacka
- Division of Biophysics , Institute of Experimental Physics , Faculty of Physics , University of Warsaw , Zwirki i Wigury 93 , 02-089 , Warsaw , Poland
| | - Kaja Fac
- Centre of New Technologies , University of Warsaw , Banacha 2c , 02-097 , Warsaw , Poland .
- College of Inter-Faculty Individual Studies in Mathematics and Natural Sciences , University of Warsaw , Banacha 2c , 02-097 , Warsaw , Poland
| | - Przemyslaw Wanat
- Division of Biophysics , Institute of Experimental Physics , Faculty of Physics , University of Warsaw , Zwirki i Wigury 93 , 02-089 , Warsaw , Poland
| | - Seweryn Mroczek
- Department of Genetics and Biotechnology , Faculty of Biology , University of Warsaw , 02-106 Warsaw , Poland
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics , Polish Academy of Sciences , 02-106 Warsaw , Poland
| | - Joanna Kowalska
- Division of Biophysics , Institute of Experimental Physics , Faculty of Physics , University of Warsaw , Zwirki i Wigury 93 , 02-089 , Warsaw , Poland
| | - Jacek Jemielity
- Centre of New Technologies , University of Warsaw , Banacha 2c , 02-097 , Warsaw , Poland .
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14
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Fujino T, Kogashi K, Okada K, Mattarella M, Suzuki T, Yasumoto K, Sogawa K, Isobe H. Chimeric RNA Oligonucleotides with Triazole and Phosphate Linkages: Synthesis and RNA Interference. Chem Asian J 2015; 10:2683-8. [PMID: 26248050 DOI: 10.1002/asia.201500765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2015] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Chimeric RNA oligonucleotides with an artificial triazole linker were synthesized using solution-phase click chemistry and solid-phase automated synthesis. Scalable synthesis methods for jointing units for the chimeric structure have been developed, and after click-coupling of the jointing units with triazole linkers, a series of chimeric oligonucleotides was prepared by utilizing the well-established phosphoramidite method for the elongation. The series of chimeric 21-mer oligonucleotides that possessed the triazole linker at different strands and positions allowed for a screening study of the RNA interference to clarify the preference of the triazole modifications in small-interfering RNA molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomoko Fujino
- Department of Chemistry, Tohoku University, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-8578, Japan
| | - Kanako Kogashi
- Department of Chemistry, Tohoku University, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-8578, Japan
| | - Koudai Okada
- Department of Chemistry, Tohoku University, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-8578, Japan
| | - Martin Mattarella
- Department of Chemistry, Tohoku University, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-8578, Japan
| | - Takeru Suzuki
- Department of Chemistry, Tohoku University, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-8578, Japan
| | - Kenichi Yasumoto
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, Tohoku University, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-8578, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Sogawa
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, Tohoku University, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-8578, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Isobe
- Department of Chemistry, Tohoku University, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-8578, Japan. .,JST, ERATO, Isobe Degenerate π-Integration Project and Advanced Institute for Materials Research, Tohoku University, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-8577, Japan.
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15
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Peel BJ, Efthymiou TC, Desaulniers JP. Synthesis of triazole-nucleoside phosphoramidites and their use in solid-phase oligonucleotide synthesis. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 55:4.57.1-38. [PMID: 25631534 DOI: 10.1002/0471142700.nc0457s55] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Triazole-backbone oligonucleotides are macromolecules that have one or more triazole units that are acting as a backbone mimic. Triazoles within the backbone have been used within oligonucleotides for a variety of applications. This unit describes the preparation and synthesis of two triazole-nucleoside phosphoramidites [uracil-triazole-uracil (UtU) and cytosine-triazole-uracil (CtU)] based on a PNA-like scaffold, and their incorporation within oligonucleotides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandon J Peel
- Faculty of Science, University of Ontario Institute of Technology, Oshawa, Ontario, Canada
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Phelps KJ, Ibarra-Soza JM, Tran K, Fisher AJ, Beal PA. Click modification of RNA at adenosine: structure and reactivity of 7-ethynyl- and 7-triazolyl-8-aza-7-deazaadenosine in RNA. ACS Chem Biol 2014; 9:1780-7. [PMID: 24896732 PMCID: PMC4136661 DOI: 10.1021/cb500270x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Ribonucleoside analogues bearing terminal alkynes, including 7-ethynyl-8-aza-7-deazaadenosine (7-EAA), are useful for RNA modification applications. However, although alkyne- and triazole-bearing ribonucleosides are in widespread use, very little information is available on the impact of these modifications on RNA structure. By solving crystal structures for RNA duplexes containing these analogues, we show that, like adenosine, 7-EAA and a triazole derived from 7-EAA base pair with uridine and are well-accommodated within an A-form helix. We show that copper-catalyzed azide/alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC) reactions with 7-EAA are sensitive to the RNA secondary structure context, with single-stranded sites reacting faster than duplex sites. 7-EAA and its triazole products are recognized in RNA template strands as adenosine by avian myoblastosis virus reverse transcriptase. In addition, 7-EAA in RNA is a substrate for an active site mutant of the RNA editing adenosine deaminase, ADAR2. These studies extend our understanding of the impact of these novel nucleobase analogues and set the stage for their use in probing RNA structure and metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly J. Phelps
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Davis, One Shields Avenue, Davis, California 95616, United States
| | - José M. Ibarra-Soza
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Davis, One Shields Avenue, Davis, California 95616, United States
| | - Kiet Tran
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Davis, One Shields Avenue, Davis, California 95616, United States
| | - Andrew J. Fisher
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Davis, One Shields Avenue, Davis, California 95616, United States
| | - Peter A. Beal
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Davis, One Shields Avenue, Davis, California 95616, United States
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17
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El-Sagheer AH, Brown T. Combined nucleobase and backbone modifications enhance DNA duplex stability and preserve biocompatibility. Chem Sci 2014. [DOI: 10.1039/c3sc51753e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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18
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Varizhuk AM, Kaluzhny DN, Novikov RA, Chizhov AO, Smirnov IP, Chuvilin AN, Tatarinova ON, Fisunov GY, Pozmogova GE, Florentiev VL. Synthesis of triazole-linked oligonucleotides with high affinity to DNA complements and an analysis of their compatibility with biosystems. J Org Chem 2013; 78:5964-9. [PMID: 23724994 DOI: 10.1021/jo400651k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
New oligonucleotide analogues with triazole internucleotide linkages were synthesized, and their hybridization properties were studied. The analogues demonstrated DNA binding affinities similar to those of unmodified oligonucleotides. The modification was shown to protect the oligonucleotides from nuclease hydrolysis. The modified oligonucleotides were tested as PCR primers. Modifications remote from the 3'-terminus were tolerated by polymerases. Our results suggest that these new oligonucleotide analogues are among the most promising triazole DNA mimics characterized to date.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna M Varizhuk
- Institute for Physical-Chemical Medicine of Ministry of Public Health, Malaya Pirogovskaya str. 1a, 117312 Moscow, Russia.
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19
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Efthymiou T, Gong W, Desaulniers JP. Chemical architecture and applications of nucleic acid derivatives containing 1,2,3-triazole functionalities synthesized via click chemistry. Molecules 2012; 17:12665-703. [PMID: 23103533 PMCID: PMC6268694 DOI: 10.3390/molecules171112665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2012] [Revised: 10/19/2012] [Accepted: 10/19/2012] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
There is considerable attention directed at chemically modifying nucleic acids with robust functional groups in order to alter their properties. Since the breakthrough of copper-assisted azide-alkyne cycloadditions (CuAAC), there have been several reports describing the synthesis and properties of novel triazole-modified nucleic acid derivatives for potential downstream DNA- and RNA-based applications. This review will focus on highlighting representative novel nucleic acid molecular structures that have been synthesized via the “click” azide-alkyne cycloaddition. Many of these derivatives show compatibility for various applications that involve enzymatic transformation, nucleic acid hybridization, molecular tagging and purification, and gene silencing. The details of these applications are discussed. In conclusion, the future of nucleic acid analogues functionalized with triazoles is promising.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jean-Paul Desaulniers
- Faculty of Science, University of Ontario Institute of Technology, 2000 Simcoe St N, Oshawa, ON L1H 7K4, Canada
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20
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El-Sagheer AH, Brown T. Click nucleic acid ligation: applications in biology and nanotechnology. Acc Chem Res 2012; 45:1258-67. [PMID: 22439702 PMCID: PMC3423825 DOI: 10.1021/ar200321n] [Citation(s) in RCA: 157] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
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Biochemical strategies that use a combination of synthetic oligonucleotides, thermostable DNA polymerases, and DNA ligases can produce large DNA constructs up to 1 megabase in length. Although these ambitious targets are feasible biochemically, comparable technologies for the chemical synthesis of long DNA strands lag far behind. The best available chemical approach is the solid-phase phosphoramidite method, which can be used to assemble DNA strands up to 150 bases in length. Beyond this point, deficiencies in the chemistry make it impossible to produce pure DNA. A possible alternative approach to the chemical synthesis of large DNA strands is to join together carefully purified synthetic oligonucleotides by chemical methods. Click ligation by the copper-catalyzed azide–alkyne (CuAAC) reaction could facilitate this process. In this Account, we describe the synthesis, characterization, and applications of oligonucleotides prepared by click ligation. The alkyne and azide oligonucleotide strands can be prepared by standard protocols, and the ligation reaction is compatible with a wide range of chemical modifications to DNA and RNA. We have employed click ligation to synthesize DNA constructs up to 300 bases in length and much longer sequences are feasible. When the resulting triazole linkage is placed in a PCR template, various DNA polymerases correctly copy the entire base sequence. We have also successfully demonstrated both in vitro transcription and rolling circle amplification through the modified linkage. This linkage has shown in vivo biocompatibility: an antibiotic resistance gene containing triazole linkages functions in E. coli. Using click ligation, we have synthesized hairpin ribozymes up to 100 nucleotides in length and a hammerhead ribozyme with the triazole linkage located at the substrate cleavage site. At the opposite end of the length scale, click-ligated, cyclic mini-DNA duplexes have been used as models to study base pairing. Cyclic duplexes have potential therapeutic applications. They have extremely high thermodynamic stability, have increased resistance to enzymatic degradation, and have been investigated as decoys for regulatory proteins. For potential nanotechnology applications, we have synthesized double stranded DNA catenanes by click ligation. Other researchers have studied covalently fixed multistranded DNA constructs including triplexes and quadruplexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afaf H. El-Sagheer
- School of Chemistry, University of Southampton, Highfield, Southampton SO17 1BJ, United Kingdom
- Chemistry Branch, Department of Science and Mathematics, Faculty of Petroleum and Mining Engineering, Suez Canal University, Suez 43721, Egypt
| | - Tom Brown
- School of Chemistry, University of Southampton, Highfield, Southampton SO17 1BJ, United Kingdom
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21
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Fujino T, Endo K, Yamazaki N, Isobe H. Synthesis of Triazole-linked Analogues of RNA (TLRNA). CHEM LETT 2012. [DOI: 10.1246/cl.2012.403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Kenta Endo
- Department of Chemistry, Tohoku University
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22
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Abstract
The past several years have seen numerous reports of new chemical modifications for use in RNA. In addition, in that time period, we have seen the discovery of several previously unknown naturally occurring modifications that impart novel properties on the parent RNAs. In this review, we describe recent discoveries in these areas with a focus on RNA modifications that introduce spectroscopic tags, reactive handles, or new recognition properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly Phelps
- Department
of Chemistry, University of California, Davis, California 95616, United States
| | - Alexi Morris
- Department
of Chemistry, University of California, Davis, California 95616, United States
| | - Peter A. Beal
- Department
of Chemistry, University of California, Davis, California 95616, United States
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23
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Sau SP, Hrdlicka PJ. C2'-pyrene-functionalized triazole-linked DNA: universal DNA/RNA hybridization probes. J Org Chem 2012; 77:5-16. [PMID: 22087648 PMCID: PMC3253902 DOI: 10.1021/jo201845z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Development of universal hybridization probes, that is, oligonucleotides displaying identical affinity toward matched and mismatched DNA/RNA targets, has been a longstanding goal due to potential applications as degenerate PCR primers and microarray probes. The classic approach toward this end has been the use of "universal bases" that either are based on hydrogen-bonding purine derivatives or aromatic base analogues without hydrogen-bonding capabilities. However, development of probes that result in truly universal hybridization without compromising duplex thermostability has proven challenging. Here we have used the "click reaction" to synthesize four C2'-pyrene-functionalized triazole-linked 2'-deoxyuridine phosphoramidites. We demonstrate that oligodeoxyribonucleotides modified with the corresponding monomers display (a) minimally decreased thermal affinity toward DNA/RNA complements relative to reference strands, (b) highly robust universal hybridization characteristics (average differences in thermal denaturation temperatures of matched vs mismatched duplexes involving monomer W are <1.7 °C), and (c) exceptional affinity toward DNA targets containing abasic sites opposite of the modification site (ΔT(m) up to +25 °C). The latter observation, along with results from absorption and fluorescence spectroscopy, suggests that the pyrene moiety is intercalating into the duplex whereby the opposing nucleotide is pushed into an extrahelical position. These properties render C2'-pyrene-functionalized triazole-linked DNA as promising universal hybridization probes for applications in nucleic acid chemistry and biotechnology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sujay P. Sau
- Department of Chemistry, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID-83844, USA
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Efthymiou TC, Huynh V, Oentoro J, Peel B, Desaulniers JP. Efficient synthesis and cell-based silencing activity of siRNAS that contain triazole backbone linkages. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2011; 22:1722-6. [PMID: 22260772 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2011.12.104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2011] [Revised: 12/16/2011] [Accepted: 12/20/2011] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
An efficient synthesis of siRNAs modified at the backbone with a triazole functionality is reported. Through the use of 4,4'-dimethoxytrityl (DMT) phosphoramidite chemistry, triazole backbone dimers were site-specifically incorporated throughout various siRNAs targeting both firefly luciferase and glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) gene transcripts as representatives of an exogenous and endogenous gene, respectively. Following the successful silencing of the firefly luciferase reporter gene, triazole-modified siRNAs were also found to be capable of silencing GAPDH in a dose-dependent manner. Backbone modifications approaching the 3'-end on the sense strand were tolerated without compromising siRNA potency. This study highlights the compatibility of triazole-modified siRNAs within the RNAi pathway, and the modification's potential to impart favorable properties to siRNAs designed to target other endogenous genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tim C Efthymiou
- Faculty of Science, University of Ontario Institute of Technology, Oshawa, Ontario, Canada
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