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Tolksdorf B, Heinze J, Niemeyer D, Röhrs V, Berg J, Drosten C, Kurreck J. Development of a highly stable, active small interfering RNA with broad activity against SARS-CoV viruses. Antiviral Res 2024; 226:105879. [PMID: 38599550 DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2024.105879] [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: 02/02/2024] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
Treatment options for COVID-19 remain limited. Here, we report the optimization of an siRNA targeting the highly conserved leader region of SARS-CoV-2. The siRNA was rendered nuclease resistant by the introduction of modified nucleotides without loss of activity. Importantly, the siRNA also retained its inhibitory activity against the emerged omicron sublineage variant BA.2, which occurred after the siRNA was designed and is resistant to other antiviral agents such as antibodies. In addition, we show that a second highly active siRNA designed against the viral 5'-UTR can be applied as a rescue molecule, to minimize the spread of escape mutations. We therefore consider our siRNA-based molecules to be promising broadly active candidates for the treatment of current and future SARS-CoV-2 variants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrice Tolksdorf
- Chair of Applied Biochemistry, Institute of Biotechnology, Technische Universität Berlin, Berlin, 10623, Germany
| | - Julian Heinze
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany; Institute of Virology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117, Germany
| | - Daniela Niemeyer
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany; Institute of Virology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117, Germany
| | - Viola Röhrs
- Chair of Applied Biochemistry, Institute of Biotechnology, Technische Universität Berlin, Berlin, 10623, Germany
| | - Johanna Berg
- Chair of Applied Biochemistry, Institute of Biotechnology, Technische Universität Berlin, Berlin, 10623, Germany
| | - Christian Drosten
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany; Institute of Virology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117, Germany
| | - Jens Kurreck
- Chair of Applied Biochemistry, Institute of Biotechnology, Technische Universität Berlin, Berlin, 10623, Germany.
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2
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Geisler A, Dieringer B, Elsner L, Klingel K, Klopfleisch R, Vornlocher HP, Kurreck J, Fechner H. Lipid nanoparticle-encapsulated, chemically modified anti-adenoviral siRNAs inhibit hepatic adenovirus infection in immunosuppressed Syrian hamsters. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2023; 32:923-936. [PMID: 37346978 PMCID: PMC10280093 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2023.05.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023]
Abstract
RNA interference has demonstrated its potential as an antiviral therapy for treatment of human adenovirus (hAd) infections. The only existing viral vector-based system for delivery of anti-adenoviral artificial microRNAs available for in vivo use, however, has proven to be inefficient in therapeutic applications. In this study, we investigated the potential of stabilized small interfering RNA (siRNA) encapsulated in lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) for treatment of hepatic hAd serotype 5 (hAd5) infection in an hAd infection model using immunosuppressed Syrian hamsters. The siRNA sipTPmod directed against the adenoviral pre-terminal protein (pTP) and containing 2'-O-methyl modifications as well as phosphorothioate linkages effectively inhibited hAd5 infection in vitro. In light of this success, sipTPmod was encapsulated in LNPs containing the cationic lipid XL-10, which enables hepatocyte-specific siRNA transfer, and injected intravenously into hAd5-infected immunosuppressed Syrian hamsters. This resulted in a significant reduction of liver hAd5 titers, a trend toward reduced liver injury and inflammation, and reduction of viral titers in the blood and spleen compared with hAd5-infected animals that received a non-silencing siRNA. These effects were demonstrated in animals infected with low and moderate doses of hAd5. These data demonstrate that hepatic hAd5 infection can be successfully treated with anti-adenoviral sipTPmod encapsulated in LNPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anja Geisler
- Department of Applied Biochemistry, Institute of Biotechnology, Technische Universität Berlin, Gustav-Meyer-Allee 25, 13355 Berlin, Germany
| | - Babette Dieringer
- Department of Applied Biochemistry, Institute of Biotechnology, Technische Universität Berlin, Gustav-Meyer-Allee 25, 13355 Berlin, Germany
| | - Leslie Elsner
- Department of Applied Biochemistry, Institute of Biotechnology, Technische Universität Berlin, Gustav-Meyer-Allee 25, 13355 Berlin, Germany
| | - Karin Klingel
- Cardiopathology, Institute for Pathology and Neuropathology, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Robert Klopfleisch
- Institute of Veterinary Pathology, Freie Universität Berlin, Robert-von-Ostertag-Straße 15, 14163 Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Jens Kurreck
- Department of Applied Biochemistry, Institute of Biotechnology, Technische Universität Berlin, Gustav-Meyer-Allee 25, 13355 Berlin, Germany
| | - Henry Fechner
- Department of Applied Biochemistry, Institute of Biotechnology, Technische Universität Berlin, Gustav-Meyer-Allee 25, 13355 Berlin, Germany
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3
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Didara Z, Reithofer F, Zöttl K, Jürets A, Kiss I, Witte A, Klein R. Inhibition of adenovirus replication by CRISPR-Cas9-mediated targeting of the viral E1A gene. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2023; 32:48-60. [PMID: 36950281 PMCID: PMC10025986 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2023.02.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023]
Abstract
DNA-targeting CRISPR-Cas systems are able to cleave dsDNA in mammalian cells. Accordingly, they have been employed to target the genomes of dsDNA viruses, mostly when present in cells in a non-replicative state with low copy numbers. However, the sheer amount of viral DNA produced within a very short time by certain lytically replicating viruses potentially brings the capacities of CRISPR-Cas systems to their limits. The accessibility of viral DNA replication sites, short time of accessibility of the DNA before encapsidation, or its complexation with shielding proteins are further potential hurdles. Adenoviruses are fast-replicating dsDNA viruses for which no approved antiviral therapy currently exists. We evaluated the potency of CRISPR-Cas9 in inhibiting the replication of human adenovirus 5 in vitro by targeting its master regulator E1A with a set of guide RNAs and observed a decrease in infectious virus particles by up to three orders of magnitude. Target DNA cleavage also negatively impacted the amount of viral DNA accumulated during the infection cycle. This outcome was mainly caused by specific deletions, inversions, and duplications occurring between target sites, which abolished most E1A functions in most cases. Additionally, we compared two strategies for multiplex gRNA expression and obtained comparable results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zrinka Didara
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Applied Sciences Krems, Piaristengasse 1, 3500 Krems, Austria
| | - Florian Reithofer
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Applied Sciences Krems, Piaristengasse 1, 3500 Krems, Austria
| | - Karina Zöttl
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Applied Sciences Krems, Piaristengasse 1, 3500 Krems, Austria
| | - Alexander Jürets
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Applied Sciences Krems, Piaristengasse 1, 3500 Krems, Austria
| | - Izabella Kiss
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Applied Sciences Krems, Piaristengasse 1, 3500 Krems, Austria
| | - Angela Witte
- Department of Microbiology, Immunobiology, and Genetics, Max Perutz Labs, University of Vienna, Dr. Bohr-Gasse 9, 1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Reinhard Klein
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Applied Sciences Krems, Piaristengasse 1, 3500 Krems, Austria
- Corresponding author: Reinhard Klein, Department of Life Sciences, University of Applied Sciences Krems, Piaristengasse 1, 3500 Krems, Austria.
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4
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Avila-Bonilla RG, Salas-Benito JS. Interactions of host miRNAs in the flavivirus 3´UTR genome: From bioinformatics predictions to practical approaches. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:976843. [PMID: 36310869 PMCID: PMC9606609 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.976843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The genus Flavivirus of the Flaviviridae family includes important viruses, such as Dengue, Zika, West Nile, Japanese encephalitis, Murray Valley encephalitis, tick-borne encephalitis, Yellow fever, Saint Louis encephalitis, and Usutu viruses. They are transmitted by mosquitoes or ticks, and they can infect humans, causing fever, encephalitis, or haemorrhagic fever. The treatment resources for these diseases and the number of vaccines available are limited. It has been discovered that eukaryotic cells synthesize small RNA molecules that can bind specifically to sequences present in messenger RNAs to inhibit the translation process, thus regulating gene expression. These small RNAs have been named microRNAs, and they have an important impact on viral infections. In this review, we compiled the available information on miRNAs that can interact with the 3’ untranslated region (3’UTR) of the flavivirus genome, a conserved region that is important for viral replication and translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodolfo Gamaliel Avila-Bonilla
- Institute of Immunology and Infection Research, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Rodolfo Gamaliel Avila-Bonilla, ; Juan Santiago Salas-Benito,
| | - Juan Santiago Salas-Benito
- Laboratorio de Biomedicina Moleculart 3, Maestría en Ciencias en Biomedicina Molecular, Escuela Nacional de Medicina y Homeopatía, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Mexico City, Mexico
- *Correspondence: Rodolfo Gamaliel Avila-Bonilla, ; Juan Santiago Salas-Benito,
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Bertzbach LD, Ip WH, Dobner T. Animal Models in Human Adenovirus Research. BIOLOGY 2021; 10:biology10121253. [PMID: 34943168 PMCID: PMC8698265 DOI: 10.3390/biology10121253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Animal models are widely used to study various aspects of human diseases and disorders. Likewise, they are indispensable for preclinical testing of medicals and vaccines. Human adenovirus infections are usually self-limiting, and can cause mild respiratory symptoms with fever, eye infection or gastrointestinal symptoms, but occasional local outbreaks with severe disease courses have been reported. In addition, adenovirus infections pose a serious risk for children and patients with a weakened immune system. Human adenovirus research in animal models to study adenovirus-induced disease and tumor development started in the 1950s. Various animal species have been tested for their susceptibility to human adenovirus infection since then, and some have been shown to mimic key characteristics of the infection in humans, including persistent infection. Furthermore, some rodent species have been found to develop tumors upon human adenovirus infection. Our review summarizes the current knowledge on animal models in human adenovirus research, describing the pros and cons along with important findings and future perspectives. Abstract Human adenovirus (HAdV) infections cause a wide variety of clinical symptoms, ranging from mild upper respiratory tract disease to lethal outcomes, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. To date, neither widely available vaccines nor approved antiadenoviral compounds are available to efficiently deal with HAdV infections. Thus, there is a need to thoroughly understand HAdV-induced disease, and for the development and preclinical evaluation of HAdV therapeutics and/or vaccines, and consequently for suitable standardizable in vitro systems and animal models. Current animal models to study HAdV pathogenesis, persistence, and tumorigenesis include rodents such as Syrian hamsters, mice, and cotton rats, as well as rabbits. In addition, a few recent studies on other species, such as pigs and tree shrews, reported promising data. These models mimic (aspects of) HAdV-induced pathological changes in humans and, although they are relevant, an ideal HAdV animal model has yet to be developed. This review summarizes the available animal models of HAdV infection with comprehensive descriptions of virus-induced pathogenesis in different animal species. We also elaborate on rodent HAdV animal models and how they contributed to insights into adenovirus-induced cell transformation and cancer.
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Shah S, Chougule MB, Kotha AK, Kashikar R, Godugu C, Raghuvanshi RS, Singh SB, Srivastava S. Nanomedicine based approaches for combating viral infections. J Control Release 2021; 338:80-104. [PMID: 34375690 PMCID: PMC8526416 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2021.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Millions of people die each year from viral infections across the globe. There is an urgent need to overcome the existing gap and pitfalls of the current antiviral therapy which include increased dose and dosing frequency, bioavailability challenges, non-specificity, incidences of resistance and so on. These stumbling blocks could be effectively managed by the advent of nanomedicine. Current review emphasizes over an enhanced understanding of how different lipid, polymer and elemental based nanoformulations could be potentially and precisely used to bridle the said drawbacks in antiviral therapy. The dawn of nanotechnology meeting vaccine delivery, role of RNAi therapeutics in antiviral treatment regimen, various regulatory concerns towards clinical translation of nanomedicine along with current trends and implications including unexplored research avenues for advancing the current drug delivery have been discussed in detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saurabh Shah
- Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad, India
| | - Mahavir Bhupal Chougule
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Drug Delivery, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, MS, USA; Department Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Mercer University, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA
| | - Arun K Kotha
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Drug Delivery, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, MS, USA; Department Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Mercer University, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA
| | - Rama Kashikar
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Drug Delivery, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, MS, USA; Department Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Mercer University, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA
| | - Chandraiah Godugu
- Department of Biological Sciences, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad, India
| | - Rajeev Singh Raghuvanshi
- Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India, India
| | - Shashi Bala Singh
- Department of Biological Sciences, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad, India
| | - Saurabh Srivastava
- Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad, India.
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Tolksdorf B, Nie C, Niemeyer D, Röhrs V, Berg J, Lauster D, Adler JM, Haag R, Trimpert J, Kaufer B, Drosten C, Kurreck J. Inhibition of SARS-CoV-2 Replication by a Small Interfering RNA Targeting the Leader Sequence. Viruses 2021; 13:v13102030. [PMID: 34696460 PMCID: PMC8539227 DOI: 10.3390/v13102030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has infected almost 200 million people worldwide and led to approximately 4 million deaths as of August 2021. Despite successful vaccine development, treatment options are limited. A promising strategy to specifically target viral infections is to suppress viral replication through RNA interference (RNAi). Hence, we designed eight small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) targeting the highly conserved 5′-untranslated region (5′-UTR) of SARS-CoV-2. The most promising candidate identified in initial reporter assays, termed siCoV6, targets the leader sequence of the virus, which is present in the genomic as well as in all subgenomic RNAs. In assays with infectious SARS-CoV-2, it reduced replication by two orders of magnitude and prevented the development of a cytopathic effect. Moreover, it retained its activity against the SARS-CoV-2 alpha variant and has perfect homology against all sequences of the delta variant that were analyzed by bioinformatic means. Interestingly, the siRNA was even highly active in virus replication assays with the SARS-CoV-1 family member. This work thus identified a very potent siRNA with a broad activity against various SARS-CoV viruses that represents a promising candidate for the development of new treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrice Tolksdorf
- Applied Biochemistry, Institute of Biotechnology, Technische Universität Berlin, 10623 Berlin, Germany; (B.T.); (V.R.); (J.B.)
| | - Chuanxiong Nie
- Institute of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Freie Universität Berlin, 14195 Berlin, Germany; (C.N.); (D.L.); (R.H.)
| | - Daniela Niemeyer
- German Centre for Infection Research (DZIF), Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (D.N.); (C.D.)
- Institute of Virology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Viola Röhrs
- Applied Biochemistry, Institute of Biotechnology, Technische Universität Berlin, 10623 Berlin, Germany; (B.T.); (V.R.); (J.B.)
| | - Johanna Berg
- Applied Biochemistry, Institute of Biotechnology, Technische Universität Berlin, 10623 Berlin, Germany; (B.T.); (V.R.); (J.B.)
| | - Daniel Lauster
- Institute of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Freie Universität Berlin, 14195 Berlin, Germany; (C.N.); (D.L.); (R.H.)
| | - Julia M. Adler
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Virology, Freie Universität Berlin, 14163 Berlin, Germany; (J.M.A.); (J.T.); (B.K.)
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Respiratory Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Rainer Haag
- Institute of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Freie Universität Berlin, 14195 Berlin, Germany; (C.N.); (D.L.); (R.H.)
| | - Jakob Trimpert
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Virology, Freie Universität Berlin, 14163 Berlin, Germany; (J.M.A.); (J.T.); (B.K.)
| | - Benedikt Kaufer
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Virology, Freie Universität Berlin, 14163 Berlin, Germany; (J.M.A.); (J.T.); (B.K.)
| | - Christian Drosten
- German Centre for Infection Research (DZIF), Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (D.N.); (C.D.)
- Institute of Virology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Jens Kurreck
- Applied Biochemistry, Institute of Biotechnology, Technische Universität Berlin, 10623 Berlin, Germany; (B.T.); (V.R.); (J.B.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.:+ 49-30-314-27581
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Pandey M, Ojha D, Bansal S, Rode AB, Chawla G. From bench side to clinic: Potential and challenges of RNA vaccines and therapeutics in infectious diseases. Mol Aspects Med 2021; 81:101003. [PMID: 34332771 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2021.101003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Revised: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The functional and structural versatility of Ribonucleic acids (RNAs) makes them ideal candidates for overcoming the limitations imposed by small molecule-based drugs. Hence, RNA-based biopharmaceuticals such as messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines, antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), microRNA mimics, anti-miRNA oligonucleotides (AMOs), aptamers, riboswitches, and CRISPR-Cas9 are emerging as vital tools for the treatment and prophylaxis of many infectious diseases. Some of the major challenges to overcome in the area of RNA-based therapeutics have been the instability of single-stranded RNAs, delivery to the diseased cell, and immunogenicity. However, recent advancements in the delivery systems of in vitro transcribed mRNA and chemical modifications for protection against nucleases and reducing the toxicity of RNA have facilitated the entry of several exogenous RNAs into clinical trials. In this review, we provide an overview of RNA-based vaccines and therapeutics, their production, delivery, current advancements, and future translational potential in treating infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manish Pandey
- RNA Biology Laboratory, Regional Centre for Biotechnology, Faridabad, 121001, India
| | - Divya Ojha
- Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, Regional Centre for Biotechnology, Faridabad, 121001, India
| | - Sakshi Bansal
- RNA Biology Laboratory, Regional Centre for Biotechnology, Faridabad, 121001, India
| | - Ambadas B Rode
- Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, Regional Centre for Biotechnology, Faridabad, 121001, India.
| | - Geetanjali Chawla
- RNA Biology Laboratory, Regional Centre for Biotechnology, Faridabad, 121001, India.
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9
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Silencing of Mcl-1 overcomes resistance of melanoma cells against TRAIL-armed oncolytic adenovirus by enhancement of apoptosis. J Mol Med (Berl) 2021; 99:1279-1291. [PMID: 34028599 PMCID: PMC8367928 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-021-02081-3] [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: 10/26/2020] [Revised: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Abstract Arming of oncolytic viruses with tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) has been shown as a viable approach to increase the antitumor efficacy in melanoma. However, melanoma cells may be partially or completely resistant to TRAIL or develop TRAIL resistance, thus counteracting the antitumor efficiency of TRAIL-armed oncolytic viruses. Recently, we found that TRAIL resistance in melanoma cells can be overcome by inhibition of antiapoptotic Bcl-2 protein myeloid cell leukemia 1 (Mcl-1). Here, we investigated whether the cytotoxicity of AdV-TRAIL, an oncolytic adenovirus, which expresses TRAIL after induction by doxycycline (Dox), can be improved in melanoma cells by silencing of Mcl-1. Two melanoma cell lines, the TRAIL-resistant MeWo and the TRAIL-sensitive Mel-HO were investigated. Treatment of both cell lines with AdV-TRAIL resulted in a decrease of cell viability, which was caused by an increase of apoptosis and necrosis. The proapoptotic effects were dependent on induction of TRAIL by Dox and were more pronounced in Mel-HO than in MeWo cells. SiRNA-mediated silencing of Mcl-1 resulted in a further significant decrease of cell viability and a further increase of apoptosis and necrosis in AdV-TRAIL-infected MeWo and Mel-HO cells. However, while in absolute terms, the effects were more pronounced in Mel-HO cells, in relative terms, they were stronger in MeWo cells. These results show that silencing of Mcl-1 represents a suitable approach to increase the cytotoxicity of a TRAIL-armed oncolytic adenovirus in melanoma cells. Key messages • Cytotoxicity of TRAIL-expressing adenovirus can be enhanced by silencing of Mcl-1. • The effect occurs in TRAIL-sensitive and TRAIL-resistant melanoma cells. • Increase of apoptosis is the main mechanism induced by Mcl-1 silencing. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00109-021-02081-3.
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Dodge MJ, MacNeil KM, Tessier TM, Weinberg JB, Mymryk JS. Emerging antiviral therapeutics for human adenovirus infection: Recent developments and novel strategies. Antiviral Res 2021; 188:105034. [PMID: 33577808 DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2021.105034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2020] [Revised: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Human adenoviruses (HAdV) are ubiquitous human pathogens that cause a significant burden of respiratory, ocular, and gastrointestinal illnesses. Although HAdV infections are generally self-limiting, pediatric and immunocompromised individuals are at particular risk for developing severe disease. Currently, no approved antiviral therapies specific to HAdV exist. Recent outbreaks underscore the need for effective antiviral agents to treat life-threatening infections. In this review we will focus on recent developments in search of potential therapeutic agents for controlling HAdV infections, with a focus on those targeting post-entry stages of the virus replicative cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mackenzie J Dodge
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Katelyn M MacNeil
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Tanner M Tessier
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Jason B Weinberg
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Joe S Mymryk
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada; Department of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada; Department of Oncology, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada; London Regional Cancer Program, Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada.
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11
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Lundstrom K. Viral Vectors Applied for RNAi-Based Antiviral Therapy. Viruses 2020; 12:v12090924. [PMID: 32842491 PMCID: PMC7552024 DOI: 10.3390/v12090924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Revised: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi) provides the means for alternative antiviral therapy. Delivery of RNAi in the form of short interfering RNA (siRNA), short hairpin RNA (shRNA) and micro-RNA (miRNA) have demonstrated efficacy in gene silencing for therapeutic applications against viral diseases. Bioinformatics has played an important role in the design of efficient RNAi sequences targeting various pathogenic viruses. However, stability and delivery of RNAi molecules have presented serious obstacles for reaching therapeutic efficacy. For this reason, RNA modifications and formulation of nanoparticles have proven useful for non-viral delivery of RNAi molecules. On the other hand, utilization of viral vectors and particularly self-replicating RNA virus vectors can be considered as an attractive alternative. In this review, examples of antiviral therapy applying RNAi-based approaches in various animal models will be described. Due to the current coronavirus pandemic, a special emphasis will be dedicated to targeting Coronavirus Disease-19 (COVID-19).
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12
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Adenovirus infection and disease in recipients of hematopoietic cell transplantation. Curr Opin Infect Dis 2020; 32:591-600. [PMID: 31567568 DOI: 10.1097/qco.0000000000000605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To provide an update on risk factors associated with adenovirus (ADV) infection in patients after hematopoietic cell transplant (HCT) and on options for ADV monitoring and treatment in the setting of HCT. RECENT FINDINGS Among patients undergoing HCT, ADV infection continues to be more common amongst those receiving a T-cell-depleted or graft other than from a matched-related donor. Among children undergoing HCT, reactivation in the gastrointestinal tract appears to be the most common source, and the virus is detectable by quantitative PCR in the stool before it is detectable in the blood. Thus, screening for the virus in the stool of these children may allow for preemptive therapy to reduce mortality. Brincidofovir, although still not approved by any regulatory agency, remains a potential agent for preemptive therapy and for salvage in cases not responding to cidofovir. Rapidly generated off-the-shelf virus-specific T cells may facilitate adoptive cell therapy in populations with a special need and previously not eligible for adoptive cell therapy, such as cord blood recipients. SUMMARY ADV infection continues to adversely affect survival in HCT recipients. Screening stool in children and preemptive therapy may reduce mortality. Brincidofovir and adoptive T-cell therapy remain potential options for treatment.
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Wold WSM, Tollefson AE, Ying B, Spencer JF, Toth K. Drug development against human adenoviruses and its advancement by Syrian hamster models. FEMS Microbiol Rev 2019; 43:380-388. [PMID: 30916746 DOI: 10.1093/femsre/fuz008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2019] [Accepted: 03/25/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The symptoms of human adenovirus infections are generally mild and self-limiting. However, these infections have been gaining importance in recent years because of a growing number of immunocompromised patients. Solid organ and hematopoietic stem cell transplant patients are subjected to severe immunosuppressive regimes and cannot efficaciously eliminate virus infections. In these patients, adenovirus infections can develop into deadly multi-organ disseminated disease. Presently, in the absence of approved therapies, physicians rely on drugs developed for other purposes to treat adenovirus infections. As there is a need for anti-adenoviral therapies, researchers have been developing new agents and repurposing existing ones to treat adenovirus infections. There are several small molecule drugs that are being tested for their efficacy against human adenoviruses; some of these have reached clinical trials, while others are still in the preclinical phase. Besides these compounds, research on immunotherapy against adenoviral infection has made significant progress, promising another modality for treatment. The availability of an animal model confirmed the activity of some drugs already in clinical use while proving that others are inactive. This led to the identification of several lead compounds that await further development. In the present article, we review the current status of anti-adenoviral therapies and their advancement by in vivo studies in the Syrian hamster model.
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Affiliation(s)
- William S M Wold
- Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, 1100 S. Grand Boulevard, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Ann E Tollefson
- Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, 1100 S. Grand Boulevard, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Baoling Ying
- Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, 1100 S. Grand Boulevard, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Jacqueline F Spencer
- Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, 1100 S. Grand Boulevard, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Karoly Toth
- Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, 1100 S. Grand Boulevard, St. Louis, MO, USA
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14
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Hiller T, Berg J, Elomaa L, Röhrs V, Ullah I, Schaar K, Dietrich AC, Al-Zeer MA, Kurtz A, Hocke AC, Hippenstiel S, Fechner H, Weinhart M, Kurreck J. Generation of a 3D Liver Model Comprising Human Extracellular Matrix in an Alginate/Gelatin-Based Bioink by Extrusion Bioprinting for Infection and Transduction Studies. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:E3129. [PMID: 30321994 PMCID: PMC6213460 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19103129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2018] [Revised: 09/27/2018] [Accepted: 10/05/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Bioprinting is a novel technology that may help to overcome limitations associated with two-dimensional (2D) cell cultures and animal experiments, as it allows the production of three-dimensional (3D) tissue models composed of human cells. The present study describes the optimization of a bioink composed of alginate, gelatin and human extracellular matrix (hECM) to print human HepaRG liver cells with a pneumatic extrusion printer. The resulting tissue model was tested for its suitability for the study of transduction by an adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector and infection with human adenovirus 5 (hAdV5). We found supplementation of the basic alginate/gelatin bioink with 0.5 and 1 mg/mL hECM provides desirable properties for the printing process, the stability of the printed constructs, and the viability and metabolic functions of the printed HepaRG cells. The tissue models were efficiently transduced by AAV vectors of serotype 6, which successfully silenced an endogenous target (cyclophilin B) by means of RNA interference. Furthermore, the printed 3D model supported efficient adenoviral replication making it suitable to study virus biology and develop new antiviral compounds. We consider the approach described here paradigmatic for the development of 3D tissue models for studies including viral vectors and infectious viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Hiller
- Institute of Biotechnology, Department of Applied Biochemistry, Technische Universität Berlin, 13355 Berlin, Germany.
| | - Johanna Berg
- Institute of Biotechnology, Department of Applied Biochemistry, Technische Universität Berlin, 13355 Berlin, Germany.
| | - Laura Elomaa
- Institute of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Department of Organic Chemistry, Freie Universität Berlin, 14195 Berlin, Germany.
| | - Viola Röhrs
- Institute of Biotechnology, Department of Applied Biochemistry, Technische Universität Berlin, 13355 Berlin, Germany.
| | - Imran Ullah
- Berlin-Brandenburger Centrum für Regenerative Therapien, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13353 Berlin, Germany.
| | - Katrin Schaar
- Institute of Biotechnology, Department of Applied Biochemistry, Technische Universität Berlin, 13355 Berlin, Germany.
| | - Ann-Christin Dietrich
- Institute of Biotechnology, Department of Applied Biochemistry, Technische Universität Berlin, 13355 Berlin, Germany.
| | - Munir A Al-Zeer
- Institute of Biotechnology, Department of Applied Biochemistry, Technische Universität Berlin, 13355 Berlin, Germany.
| | - Andreas Kurtz
- Berlin-Brandenburger Centrum für Regenerative Therapien, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13353 Berlin, Germany.
| | - Andreas C Hocke
- Dept. of Internal Medicine/Infectious and Respiratory Diseases, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany.
| | - Stefan Hippenstiel
- Dept. of Internal Medicine/Infectious and Respiratory Diseases, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany.
| | - Henry Fechner
- Institute of Biotechnology, Department of Applied Biochemistry, Technische Universität Berlin, 13355 Berlin, Germany.
| | - Marie Weinhart
- Institute of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Department of Organic Chemistry, Freie Universität Berlin, 14195 Berlin, Germany.
| | - Jens Kurreck
- Institute of Biotechnology, Department of Applied Biochemistry, Technische Universität Berlin, 13355 Berlin, Germany.
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15
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Qiu FZ, Shen XX, Zhao MC, Zhao L, Duan SX, Chen C, Qi JJ, Li GX, Wang L, Feng ZS, Ma XJ. A triplex quantitative real-time PCR assay for differential detection of human adenovirus serotypes 2, 3 and 7. Virol J 2018; 15:81. [PMID: 29716642 PMCID: PMC5930744 DOI: 10.1186/s12985-018-0983-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2018] [Accepted: 04/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human adenovirus (HAdV) serotypes 2, 3 and 7 are more prevalent than other serotypes and have been associated with severe pneumonia in pediatric children. Molecular typing of HAdV is not routinely performed in clinical diagnostic laboratories as it is time-consuming and labor-intensive. METHODS In the present study, we developed a triplex quantitative real-time PCR assay (tq-PCR) in a single closed tube for differential detection and quantitative analysis of HAdV serotypes 2, 3 and 7. The sensitivity, specificity, reproducibility and clinical performance of tq-PCR were evaluated. RESULTS The analytical sensitivity of the tq-PCR was 100 copies/reaction for each of HAdV serotypes 2, 3 and 7, and no cross-reaction with other common respiratory viruses or HAdV serotypes 1,4,5,6,31,55 and 57 was observed. The coefficients of variation (CV) of intra-assay and inter-assay were between 0.6% to 3.6%. Of 138 previously-defined HAdV-positive nasopharyngeal aspirates samples tested, the detection agreement between tq-PCR and nested PCR was 96.38% (133/138). CONCLUSION The proposed tq-PCR assay is a sensitive, specific and reproducible method and has the potential for clinical use in the rapid and differential detection and quantitation of HAdV serotypes 2, 3 and 7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang-Zhou Qiu
- Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050031, Hebei, China.,Key Laboratory for Medical Virology, National Health and Family Planning Commission, National Institute for Viral Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, No. 155 Changbai Street, Chang ping District, Beijing, 102206, China
| | - Xin-Xin Shen
- Key Laboratory for Medical Virology, National Health and Family Planning Commission, National Institute for Viral Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, No. 155 Changbai Street, Chang ping District, Beijing, 102206, China
| | - Meng-Chuan Zhao
- Children's Hospital of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, 050031, Hebei, China
| | - Li Zhao
- Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050031, Hebei, China.,Key Laboratory for Medical Virology, National Health and Family Planning Commission, National Institute for Viral Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, No. 155 Changbai Street, Chang ping District, Beijing, 102206, China
| | - Su-Xia Duan
- Key Laboratory for Medical Virology, National Health and Family Planning Commission, National Institute for Viral Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, No. 155 Changbai Street, Chang ping District, Beijing, 102206, China.,Children's Hospital of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, 050031, Hebei, China
| | - Chen Chen
- Key Laboratory for Medical Virology, National Health and Family Planning Commission, National Institute for Viral Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, No. 155 Changbai Street, Chang ping District, Beijing, 102206, China
| | - Ju-Ju Qi
- Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050031, Hebei, China.,Key Laboratory for Medical Virology, National Health and Family Planning Commission, National Institute for Viral Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, No. 155 Changbai Street, Chang ping District, Beijing, 102206, China
| | - Gui-Xia Li
- Children's Hospital of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, 050031, Hebei, China
| | - Le Wang
- Children's Hospital of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, 050031, Hebei, China
| | - Zhi-Shan Feng
- Children's Hospital of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, 050031, Hebei, China.
| | - Xue-Jun Ma
- Key Laboratory for Medical Virology, National Health and Family Planning Commission, National Institute for Viral Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, No. 155 Changbai Street, Chang ping District, Beijing, 102206, China.
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