1
|
Belgrad J, Tang Q, Hildebrand S, Summers A, Sapp E, Echeverria D, O’Reilly D, Luu E, Bramato B, Allen S, Cooper D, Alterman J, Yamada K, Aronin N, DiFiglia M, Khvorova A. A programmable dual-targeting siRNA scaffold supports potent two-gene modulation in the central nervous system. Nucleic Acids Res 2024; 52:6099-6113. [PMID: 38726879 PMCID: PMC11194107 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkae368] [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: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Divalent short-interfering RNA (siRNA) holds promise as a therapeutic approach allowing for the sequence-specific modulation of a target gene within the central nervous system (CNS). However, an siRNA modality capable of simultaneously modulating gene pairs would be invaluable for treating complex neurodegenerative disorders, where more than one pathway contributes to pathogenesis. Currently, the parameters and scaffold considerations for multi-targeting nucleic acid modalities in the CNS are undefined. Here, we propose a framework for designing unimolecular 'dual-targeting' divalent siRNAs capable of co-silencing two genes in the CNS. We systematically adjusted the original CNS-active divalent siRNA and identified that connecting two sense strands 3' and 5' through an intra-strand linker enabled a functional dual-targeting scaffold, greatly simplifying the synthetic process. Our findings demonstrate that the dual-targeting siRNA supports at least two months of maximal distribution and target silencing in the mouse CNS. The dual-targeting divalent siRNA is highly programmable, enabling simultaneous modulation of two different disease-relevant gene pairs (e.g. Huntington's disease: MSH3 and HTT; Alzheimer's disease: APOE and JAK1) with similar potency to a mixture of single-targeting divalent siRNAs against each gene. This work enhances the potential for CNS modulation of disease-related gene pairs using a unimolecular siRNA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jillian Belgrad
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School; Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Qi Tang
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School; Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Sam Hildebrand
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School; Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Ashley Summers
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School; Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Ellen Sapp
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital; Charlestown, MA, USA
| | - Dimas Echeverria
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School; Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Dan O’Reilly
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School; Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Eric Luu
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School; Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Brianna Bramato
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School; Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Sarah Allen
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School; Worcester, MA, USA
| | - David Cooper
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School; Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Julia Alterman
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School; Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Ken Yamada
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School; Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Neil Aronin
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School; Worcester, MA, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School; Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Marian DiFiglia
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital; Charlestown, MA, USA
| | - Anastasia Khvorova
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School; Worcester, MA, USA
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School; Worcester, MA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Hariharan VN, Nakamura T, Shin M, Tang Q, Sontakke V, Caiazzi J, Hildebrand S, Khvorova A, Yamada K. Phosphatidylcholine head group chemistry alters the extrahepatic accumulation of lipid-conjugated siRNA. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2024; 35:102230. [PMID: 38938759 PMCID: PMC11209015 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2024.102230] [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: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) are revolutionizing the treatment of liver-associated indications. Yet, robust delivery to extrahepatic tissues remains a challenge. Conjugating lipids (e.g., docosanoic acid [DCA]) to siRNA supports extrahepatic delivery, but tissue accumulation remains lower than that achieved in liver by approved siRNA therapeutics. Early evidence suggests that functionalizing DCA with a head group (e.g., phosphatidylcholine [PC]) may enhance delivery to certain tissues. Here, we report the first systematic evaluation of the effect of PC head group chemistry on the extrahepatic distribution of DCA-conjugated siRNAs. We show that functionalizing DCA with a PC head group enhances siRNA accumulation in heart, muscle, lung, pancreas, duodenum, urinary bladder, and fat. Varying the size of the linker between the phosphate and choline moiety of the PC head group altered the extrahepatic accumulation of siRNA, with the optimal linker length being different for different tissues. Increasing PC head group valency also improved extrahepatic accumulation in a tissue-specific manner. This study demonstrates the structural impact of the PC moiety on the biodistribution of lipid-conjugated siRNA and introduces multiple novel PC variants for the chemical optimization of DCA-conjugated siRNA. These chemical variants can be used in the context of other lipids to increase the repertoire of conjugates for the extrahepatic distribution of siRNAs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vignesh N. Hariharan
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Takahiro Nakamura
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Minwook Shin
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Qi Tang
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Vyankat Sontakke
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Jillian Caiazzi
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Samuel Hildebrand
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Anastasia Khvorova
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Ken Yamada
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Tang Q, Khvorova A. RNAi-based drug design: considerations and future directions. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2024; 23:341-364. [PMID: 38570694 PMCID: PMC11144061 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-024-00912-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
More than 25 years after its discovery, the post-transcriptional gene regulation mechanism termed RNAi is now transforming pharmaceutical development, proved by the recent FDA approval of multiple small interfering RNA (siRNA) drugs that target the liver. Synthetic siRNAs that trigger RNAi have the potential to specifically silence virtually any therapeutic target with unprecedented potency and durability. Bringing this innovative class of medicines to patients, however, has been riddled with substantial challenges, with delivery issues at the forefront. Several classes of siRNA drug are under clinical evaluation, but their utility in treating extrahepatic diseases remains limited, demanding continued innovation. In this Review, we discuss principal considerations and future directions in the design of therapeutic siRNAs, with a particular emphasis on chemistry, the application of informatics, delivery strategies and the importance of careful target selection, which together influence therapeutic success.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qi Tang
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
- Department of Dermatology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Anastasia Khvorova
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA.
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Belgrad J, Fakih HH, Khvorova A. Nucleic Acid Therapeutics: Successes, Milestones, and Upcoming Innovation. Nucleic Acid Ther 2024; 34:52-72. [PMID: 38507678 PMCID: PMC11302270 DOI: 10.1089/nat.2023.0068] [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: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Nucleic acid-based therapies have become the third major drug class after small molecules and antibodies. The role of nucleic acid-based therapies has been strengthened by recent regulatory approvals and tremendous clinical success. In this review, we look at the major obstacles that have hindered the field, the historical milestones that have been achieved, and what is yet to be resolved and anticipated soon. This review provides a view of the key innovations that are expanding nucleic acid capabilities, setting the stage for the future of nucleic acid therapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jillian Belgrad
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Hassan H. Fakih
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Anastasia Khvorova
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Liu H, Wang Y, Le Q, Tong J, Wang H. The IFN-γ-CXCL9/CXCL10-CXCR3 axis in vitiligo: Pathological mechanism and treatment. Eur J Immunol 2024; 54:e2250281. [PMID: 37937817 DOI: 10.1002/eji.202250281] [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: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023]
Abstract
Vitiligo is a disease featuring distinct white patches that result from melanocyte destruction. The overall pathogenesis of vitiligo remains to be elucidated. Nevertheless, considerable research indicates that adaptive immune activation plays a key role in this process. Specifically, the interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), C-X-C motif chemokine ligands (CXCL9/10), and C-X-C motif chemokine receptor (CXCR3) signaling axis, collectively referred to as IFN-γ-CXCL9/10-CXCR3 or ICC axis, has emerged as a key mediator responsible for the recruitment of autoimmune CXCR3+ CD8+ T cells. These cells serve as executioners of melanocytes by promoting their detachment and apoptosis. Moreover, IFN-γ is generated by activated T cells to create a positive feedback loop, exacerbating the autoimmune response. This review not only delves into the mechanistic insights of the ICC axis but also explores the significant immunological effects of associated cytokines and their receptors. Additionally, the review provides a thorough comparison of existing and emerging treatment options that target the ICC axis for managing vitiligo. This review aims to foster further advancements in basic research within related fields and facilitate a deeper understanding of alternative treatment strategies targeting different elements of the axis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hanqing Liu
- Precision Research Center for Refractory Diseases, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P. R. China
- College of Health Science and Technology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Yihui Wang
- College of Health Science and Technology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Qianqian Le
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Jiajia Tong
- Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Precision Research Center for Refractory Diseases, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Honglin Wang
- Precision Research Center for Refractory Diseases, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Silvestrini AVP, Morais MF, Debiasi BW, Praça FG, Bentley MVLB. Nanotechnology strategies to address challenges in topical and cellular delivery of siRNAs in skin disease therapy. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2024; 207:115198. [PMID: 38341146 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2024.115198] [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: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Gene therapy is one of the most advanced therapies in current medicine. In particular, interference RNA-based therapy by small interfering RNA (siRNA) has gained attention in recent years as it is a highly versatile, selective and specific therapy. In dermatological conditions, topical delivery of siRNA offers numerous therapeutic advantages, mainly by inhibiting the expression of target transcripts directly in the skin. However, crossing the stratum corneum and overcoming intracellular barriers is an inherent challenge. Substantial efforts by scientists have moved towards the use of multimodal and multifunctional nanoparticles to overcome these barriers and achieve greater bioavailability in their site of action, the cytoplasm. In this review the most innovative strategies based on nanoparticle and physical methods are presented, as well as the design principles and the main factors that contribute to the performance of these systems. This review also highlights the synergistic contributions of medicine, nanotechnology, and molecular biology to advancing translational research into siRNA-based therapeutics for skin diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Vitoria Pupo Silvestrini
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirao Preto, University of Sao Paulo, Av. do Café, s/n, 14040-903 Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Milena Finazzi Morais
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirao Preto, University of Sao Paulo, Av. do Café, s/n, 14040-903 Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Bryan Wender Debiasi
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirao Preto, University of Sao Paulo, Av. do Café, s/n, 14040-903 Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Fabíola Garcia Praça
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirao Preto, University of Sao Paulo, Av. do Café, s/n, 14040-903 Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Maria Vitória Lopes Badra Bentley
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirao Preto, University of Sao Paulo, Av. do Café, s/n, 14040-903 Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Tang Q, Gross KY, Fakih HH, Jackson SO, Zain U.I. Abideen M, Monopoli KR, Blanchard C, Bouix-Peter C, Portal T, Harris JE, Khvorova A, Alterman JF. Multispecies-targeting siRNAs for the modulation of JAK1 in the skin. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2024; 35:102117. [PMID: 38304729 PMCID: PMC10831156 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2024.102117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
Identifying therapeutic oligonucleotides that are cross-reactive to experimental animal species can dramatically accelerate the process of preclinical development and clinical translation. Here, we identify fully chemically-modified small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) that are cross-reactive to Janus kinase 1 (JAK1) in humans and a large variety of other species. We validated the identified siRNAs in silencing JAK1 in cell lines and skin tissues of multiple species. JAK1 is one of the four members of the JAK family of tyrosine kinases that mediate the signaling transduction of many inflammatory cytokine pathways. Dysregulation of these pathways is often involved in the pathogenesis of various immune disorders, and modulation of JAK family enzymes is an effective strategy in the clinic. Thus, this work may open up unprecedented opportunities for evaluating the modulation of JAK1 in many animal models of human inflammatory skin diseases. Further chemical engineering of the optimized JAK1 siRNAs may expand the utility of these compounds for treating immune disorders in additional tissues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qi Tang
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
- Department of Dermatology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Katherine Y. Gross
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Hassan H. Fakih
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Samuel O. Jackson
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | | | - Kathryn R. Monopoli
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
- Bioinformatics and Computational Biology Program, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester, MA 01609, USA
| | | | | | | | - John E. Harris
- Department of Dermatology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Anastasia Khvorova
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Julia F. Alterman
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Chernikov IV, Ponomareva UA, Meschaninova MI, Bachkova IK, Vlassov VV, Zenkova MA, Chernolovskaya EL. Cholesterol Conjugates of Small Interfering RNA: Linkers and Patterns of Modification. Molecules 2024; 29:786. [PMID: 38398538 PMCID: PMC10892548 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29040786] [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: 12/07/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Cholesterol siRNA conjugates attract attention because they allow the delivery of siRNA into cells without the use of transfection agents. In this study, we compared the efficacy and duration of silencing induced by cholesterol conjugates of selectively and totally modified siRNAs and their heteroduplexes of the same sequence and explored the impact of linker length between the 3' end of the sense strand of siRNA and cholesterol on the silencing activity of "light" and "heavy" modified siRNAs. All 3'-cholesterol conjugates were equally active under transfection, but the conjugate with a C3 linker was less active than those with longer linkers (C8 and C15) in a carrier-free mode. At the same time, they were significantly inferior in activity to the 5'-cholesterol conjugate. Shortening the sense strand carrying cholesterol by two nucleotides from the 3'-end did not have a significant effect on the activity of the conjugate. Replacing the antisense strand or both strands with fully modified ones had a significant effect on silencing as well as improving the duration in transfection-mediated and carrier-free modes. A significant 78% suppression of MDR1 gene expression in KB-8-5 xenograft tumors developed in mice promises an advantage from the use of fully modified siRNA cholesterol conjugates in combination chemotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ivan V Chernikov
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Academic Lavrentiev Avenue 8, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Ul'yana A Ponomareva
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Academic Lavrentiev Avenue 8, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Mariya I Meschaninova
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Academic Lavrentiev Avenue 8, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Irina K Bachkova
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Academic Lavrentiev Avenue 8, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, Novosibirsk State University, Pirogova Str. 1, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Valentin V Vlassov
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Academic Lavrentiev Avenue 8, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Marina A Zenkova
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Academic Lavrentiev Avenue 8, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Elena L Chernolovskaya
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Academic Lavrentiev Avenue 8, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Dainichi T, Iwata M, Kaku Y. Alopecia areata: What's new in the diagnosis and treatment with JAK inhibitors? J Dermatol 2024; 51:196-209. [PMID: 38087654 DOI: 10.1111/1346-8138.17064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2023] [Revised: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2024]
Abstract
Alopecia areata (AA) affects individuals of all ages and is intractable in severe relapsing cases. Dermatologists and other healthcare providers should consider AA in the medical context and prioritize treatment. Several randomized controlled clinical studies on Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors with different specificities for the treatment of AA are ongoing. These studies have encouraged us to appreciate the importance of a definitive diagnosis and accurate evaluation of AA before and during treatment. Following our previous review article in 2017, here we provide the second part of this two-review series on the recent progress in the multidisciplinary approaches to AA from more than 1800 articles published between July 2016 and December 2022. This review focuses on the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of AA. We also provide the latest information on the safety and efficacy of JAK inhibitors for the treatment of AA and describe their mechanisms of action.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Teruki Dainichi
- Department of Dermatology, Kagawa University Faculty of Medicine, Miki-cho, Kita-gun, Japan
| | - Masashi Iwata
- Department of Dermatology, Kagawa University Faculty of Medicine, Miki-cho, Kita-gun, Japan
| | - Yo Kaku
- Department of Dermatology, Kagawa University Faculty of Medicine, Miki-cho, Kita-gun, Japan
- Department of Dermatology, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Belgrad J, Tang Q, Hildebrand S, Summers A, Sapp E, Echeverria D, O’Reilly D, Luu E, Bramato B, Allen S, Cooper D, Alterman J, Yamada K, Aronin N, DiFiglia M, Khvorova A. A programmable dual-targeting di-valent siRNA scaffold supports potent multi-gene modulation in the central nervous system. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.12.19.572404. [PMID: 38187561 PMCID: PMC10769306 DOI: 10.1101/2023.12.19.572404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
Di-valent short interfering RNA (siRNA) is a promising therapeutic modality that enables sequence-specific modulation of a single target gene in the central nervous system (CNS). To treat complex neurodegenerative disorders, where pathogenesis is driven by multiple genes or pathways, di-valent siRNA must be able to silence multiple target genes simultaneously. Here we present a framework for designing unimolecular "dual-targeting" di-valent siRNAs capable of co-silencing two genes in the CNS. We reconfigured di-valent siRNA - in which two identical, linked siRNAs are made concurrently - to create linear di-valent siRNA - where two siRNAs are made sequentially attached by a covalent linker. This linear configuration, synthesized using commercially available reagents, enables incorporation of two different siRNAs to silence two different targets. We demonstrate that this dual-targeting di-valent siRNA is fully functional in the CNS of mice, supporting at least two months of maximal target silencing. Dual-targeting di-valent siRNA is highly programmable, enabling simultaneous modulation of two different disease-relevant gene pairs (e.g., Huntington's disease: MSH3 and HTT; Alzheimer's disease: APOE and JAK1) with similar potency to a mixture of single-targeting di-valent siRNAs against each gene. This work potentiates CNS modulation of virtually any pair of disease-related targets using a simple unimolecular siRNA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jillian Belgrad
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School; Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Qi Tang
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School; Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sam Hildebrand
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School; Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ashley Summers
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School; Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ellen Sapp
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital; Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Dimas Echeverria
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School; Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Dan O’Reilly
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School; Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Eric Luu
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School; Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Brianna Bramato
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School; Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sarah Allen
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School; Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - David Cooper
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School; Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Julia Alterman
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School; Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ken Yamada
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School; Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Neil Aronin
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School; Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School; Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Marian DiFiglia
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital; Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Anastasia Khvorova
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School; Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School; Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Chernikov IV, Ponomareva UA, Meschaninova MI, Bachkova IK, Teterina AA, Gladkikh DV, Savin IA, Vlassov VV, Zenkova MA, Chernolovskaya EL. Cholesterol-Conjugated Supramolecular Multimeric siRNAs: Effect of siRNA Length on Accumulation and Silencing In Vitro and In Vivo. Nucleic Acid Ther 2023; 33:361-373. [PMID: 37943612 DOI: 10.1089/nat.2023.0051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Conjugation of small interfering RNA (siRNA) with lipophilic molecules is one of the most promising approaches for delivering siRNA in vivo. The rate of molecular weight-dependent siRNA renal clearance is critical for the efficiency of this process. In this study, we prepared cholesterol-containing supramolecular complexes containing from three to eight antisense strands and examined their accumulation and silencing activity in vitro and in vivo. We have shown for the first time that such complexes with 2'F, 2'OMe, and LNA modifications exhibit interfering activity both in carrier-mediated and carrier-free modes. Silencing data from a xenograft tumor model show that 4 days after intravenous injection of cholesterol-containing monomers and supramolecular trimers, the levels of MDR1 mRNA in the tumor decreased by 85% and 68%, respectively. The in vivo accumulation data demonstrated that the formation of supramolecular structures with three or four antisense strands enhanced their accumulation in the liver. After addition of two PS modifications at the ends of antisense strands, 47% and 67% reductions of Ttr mRNA levels in the liver tissue were detected 7 days after administration of monomers and supramolecular trimers, respectively. Thus, we have obtained a new type of RNAi inducer that is convenient for synthesis and provides opportunities for modifications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ivan V Chernikov
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Ul'yana A Ponomareva
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Mariya I Meschaninova
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Irina K Bachkova
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Anna A Teterina
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Daniil V Gladkikh
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Innokenty A Savin
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Valentin V Vlassov
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Marina A Zenkova
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Elena L Chernolovskaya
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Tang Q, Fakih HH, Zain Ui Abideen M, Hildebrand SR, Afshari K, Gross KY, Sousa J, Maebius AS, Bartholdy C, Søgaard PP, Jackerott M, Hariharan V, Summers A, Fan X, Okamura K, Monopoli KR, Cooper DA, Echeverria D, Bramato B, McHugh N, Furgal RC, Dresser K, Winter SJ, Biscans A, Chuprin J, Haddadi NS, Sherman S, Yıldız-Altay Ü, Rashighi M, Richmond JM, Bouix-Peter C, Blanchard C, Clauss A, Alterman JF, Khvorova A, Harris JE. Rational design of a JAK1-selective siRNA inhibitor for the modulation of autoimmunity in the skin. Nat Commun 2023; 14:7099. [PMID: 37925520 PMCID: PMC10625637 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-42714-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Inhibition of Janus kinase (JAK) family enzymes is a popular strategy for treating inflammatory and autoimmune skin diseases. In the clinic, small molecule JAK inhibitors show distinct efficacy and safety profiles, likely reflecting variable selectivity for JAK subtypes. Absolute JAK subtype selectivity has not yet been achieved. Here, we rationally design small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) that offer sequence-specific gene silencing of JAK1, narrowing the spectrum of action on JAK-dependent cytokine signaling to maintain efficacy and improve safety. Our fully chemically modified siRNA supports efficient silencing of JAK1 expression in human skin explant and modulation of JAK1-dependent inflammatory signaling. A single injection into mouse skin enables five weeks of duration of effect. In a mouse model of vitiligo, local administration of the JAK1 siRNA significantly reduces skin infiltration of autoreactive CD8+ T cells and prevents epidermal depigmentation. This work establishes a path toward siRNA treatments as a new class of therapeutic modality for inflammatory and autoimmune skin diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qi Tang
- Department of Dermatology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Hassan H Fakih
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Mohammad Zain Ui Abideen
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Samuel R Hildebrand
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Khashayar Afshari
- Department of Dermatology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Katherine Y Gross
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Jacquelyn Sousa
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Allison S Maebius
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | | | | | | | - Vignesh Hariharan
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Ashley Summers
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Xueli Fan
- Department of Dermatology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Ken Okamura
- Department of Dermatology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Kathryn R Monopoli
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
- Bioinformatics and Computational Biology Program, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester, MA, 01609, USA
| | - David A Cooper
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Dimas Echeverria
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Brianna Bramato
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Nicholas McHugh
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Raymond C Furgal
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Karen Dresser
- Department of Pathology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Sarah J Winter
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Annabelle Biscans
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Jane Chuprin
- Department of Dermatology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Nazgol-Sadat Haddadi
- Department of Dermatology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Shany Sherman
- Department of Dermatology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Ümmügülsüm Yıldız-Altay
- Department of Dermatology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Mehdi Rashighi
- Department of Dermatology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Jillian M Richmond
- Department of Dermatology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | | | | | - Adam Clauss
- LEO Pharma A/S, Industriparken 55, 2750, Ballerup, Denmark
| | - Julia F Alterman
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA.
| | - Anastasia Khvorova
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA.
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA.
| | - John E Harris
- Department of Dermatology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Miot HA, Criado PR, de Castro CCS, Ianhez M, Talhari C, Ramos PM. JAK-STAT pathway inhibitors in dermatology. An Bras Dermatol 2023; 98:656-677. [PMID: 37230920 PMCID: PMC10404561 DOI: 10.1016/j.abd.2023.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The JAK-STAT signaling pathway mediates important cellular processes such as immune response, carcinogenesis, cell differentiation, division and death. Therefore, drugs that interfere with different JAK-STAT signaling patterns have potential indications for various medical conditions. The main dermatological targets of JAK-STAT pathway inhibitors are inflammatory or autoimmune diseases such as psoriasis, vitiligo, atopic dermatitis and alopecia areata; however, several dermatoses are under investigation to expand this list of indications. As JAK-STAT pathway inhibitors should gradually occupy a relevant space in dermatological prescriptions, this review presents the main available drugs, their immunological effects, and their pharmacological characteristics, related to clinical efficacy and safety, aiming to validate the best dermatological practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hélio Amante Miot
- Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, SP, Brazil.
| | - Paulo Ricardo Criado
- Centro Universitário Faculdade de Medicina do ABC, Santo André, SP, Brazil; Faculdade de Ciências Médicas de Santos, Santos, SP, Brazil
| | - Caio César Silva de Castro
- Hospital de Dermatologia Sanitária do Paraná, Curitiba, PR, Brazil; Escola de Medicina, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Paraná, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - Mayra Ianhez
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Dermatology, Instituto de Patologia Tropical e Saúde Pública, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil
| | - Carolina Talhari
- Department of Dermatology, Universidade do Estado do Amazonas, Manaus, AM, Brazil
| | - Paulo Müller Ramos
- Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
O'Reilly D, Belgrad J, Ferguson C, Summers A, Sapp E, McHugh C, Mathews E, Boudi A, Buchwald J, Ly S, Moreno D, Furgal R, Luu E, Kennedy Z, Hariharan V, Monopoli K, Yang XW, Carroll J, DiFiglia M, Aronin N, Khvorova A. Di-valent siRNA-mediated silencing of MSH3 blocks somatic repeat expansion in mouse models of Huntington's disease. Mol Ther 2023; 31:1661-1674. [PMID: 37177784 PMCID: PMC10277892 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2023.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Huntington's disease (HD) is a severe neurodegenerative disorder caused by the expansion of the CAG trinucleotide repeat tract in the huntingtin gene. Inheritance of expanded CAG repeats is needed for HD manifestation, but further somatic expansion of the repeat tract in non-dividing cells, particularly striatal neurons, hastens disease onset. Called somatic repeat expansion, this process is mediated by the mismatch repair (MMR) pathway. Among MMR components identified as modifiers of HD onset, MutS homolog 3 (MSH3) has emerged as a potentially safe and effective target for therapeutic intervention. Here, we identify a fully chemically modified short interfering RNA (siRNA) that robustly silences Msh3 in vitro and in vivo. When synthesized in a di-valent scaffold, siRNA-mediated silencing of Msh3 effectively blocked CAG-repeat expansion in the striatum of two HD mouse models without affecting tumor-associated microsatellite instability or mRNA expression of other MMR genes. Our findings establish a promising treatment approach for patients with HD and other repeat expansion diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel O'Reilly
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Jillian Belgrad
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Chantal Ferguson
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Ashley Summers
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Ellen Sapp
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Cassandra McHugh
- Behavioral Neuroscience Program, Psychology Department, Western Washington University, Bellingham, WA 98225, USA
| | - Ella Mathews
- Behavioral Neuroscience Program, Psychology Department, Western Washington University, Bellingham, WA 98225, USA
| | - Adel Boudi
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Julianna Buchwald
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Socheata Ly
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Dimas Moreno
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Raymond Furgal
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Eric Luu
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Zachary Kennedy
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Vignesh Hariharan
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Kathryn Monopoli
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - X William Yang
- Center for Neurobehavioral Genetics, Jane and Terry Semel Institute of Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Jeffery Carroll
- Behavioral Neuroscience Program, Psychology Department, Western Washington University, Bellingham, WA 98225, USA; Department of Neurology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98104-2499, USA
| | - Marian DiFiglia
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Neil Aronin
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA; Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Anastasia Khvorova
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA.
| |
Collapse
|