1
|
Liu Y, Wang J, Wu Y, Wang Y. Advancing the enzymatic toolkit for 2'-fluoro arabino nucleic acid (FANA) manipulation: phosphorylation, ligation, replication, and templating RNA transcription. Chem Sci 2024; 15:12534-12542. [PMID: 39118620 PMCID: PMC11304824 DOI: 10.1039/d4sc02904f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
2'-Fluoro arabino nucleic acid (FANA), classified as a xeno nucleic acid (XNA), stands as a prominent subject of investigation in synthetic genetic polymers. Demonstrating efficacy as antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) and exhibiting the ability to fold into functional structures akin to enzymes and aptamers, FANA holds substantial promise across diverse biological and therapeutic domains. Owing to structural similarities to DNA, the utilization of naturally occurring DNA polymerases for DNA-mediated FANA replication is well-documented. In this study, we explore alternative nucleic acid processing enzymes typically employed for DNA oligonucleotide (ON) phosphorylation, ligation, and amplification, and assess their compatibility with FANA substrates. Notably, T4 polynucleotide kinase (T4 PNK) efficiently phosphorylated the 5'-hydroxyl group of FANA using ATP as a phosphate donor. Subsequent ligation of the phosphorylated FANA with an upstream FANA ON was achieved with T4 DNA ligase, facilitated by a DNA splint ON that brings the two FANA ONs into proximity. This methodology enabled the reconstruction of RNA-cleaving FANA 12-7 by ligating two FANA fragments amenable to solid-phase synthesis. Furthermore, Tgo DNA polymerase, devoid of 3' to 5' exonuclease activity [Tgo (exo-)], demonstrated proficiency in performing polymerase chain reaction (PCR) with a mixture of dNTPs and FANA NTPs (fNTPs), yielding DNA-FANA chimeras with efficiency and fidelity comparable to traditional DNA PCR. Notably, T7 RNA polymerase (T7 RNAP) exhibited recognition of double-stranded fA-DNA chimeras containing T7 promoter sequences, enabling in vitro transcription of RNA molecules up to 649 nt in length, even in the presence of highly structured F30 motifs at the 3' end. Our findings significantly expand the enzymatic toolkit for FANA manipulation, encompassing phosphorylation, ligation, chimeric amplification, and templating T7 RNAP-catalyzed RNA transcription. These advancements are poised to expedite fundamental research, functional evolution, and translational applications of FANA-based XNA agents. They also have the potential to inspire explorations of a broader range of non-natural nucleic acids that can be routinely studied in laboratories, ultimately expanding the repertoire of nucleic acid-based biomedicine and biotechnology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yingyu Liu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University Suzhou 215123 China
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences Hangzhou Zhejiang 310000 China
| | - Jun Wang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University Suzhou 215123 China
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences Hangzhou Zhejiang 310000 China
| | - Yashu Wu
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences Hangzhou Zhejiang 310000 China
- The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Science (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital) Hangzhou Zhejiang 310022 China
| | - Yajun Wang
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences Hangzhou Zhejiang 310000 China
- The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Science (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital) Hangzhou Zhejiang 310022 China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Genna V, Reyes-Fraile L, Iglesias-Fernandez J, Orozco M. Nucleic acids in modern molecular therapies: A realm of opportunities for strategic drug design. Curr Opin Struct Biol 2024; 87:102838. [PMID: 38759298 DOI: 10.1016/j.sbi.2024.102838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2024] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
RNA vaccines have made evident to society what was already known by the scientific community: nucleic acids will be the "drugs of the future." By modifying the genome, interfering in transcription or translation, and by introducing new catalysts into the cell or by mimicking antibody effects, nucleic acids can generate therapeutic activities that are not accessible by any other therapeutic agents. There are, however, challenges that need to be solved in the next few years to make nucleic acids usable in a wide range of therapeutic scenarios. This review illustrates how simulation methods can help achieve this goal.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vito Genna
- NBD|Nostrum Biodiscovery, Josep Tarradellas 8-10, Barcelona 08019, Spain. https://twitter.com/_VitoGenna_
| | - Laura Reyes-Fraile
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Baldiri Reixac 10-12, Barcelona 08028, Spain; Sixfold Bioscience Ltd, Translational & Innovation Hub, 84 Wood Ln, London W12 0BZ, United Kingdom
| | | | - Modesto Orozco
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Baldiri Reixac 10-12, Barcelona 08028, Spain; Department of Biochemistry and Biomedicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona 08028, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Li P, Zheng S, Leung HM, Liu LS, Chang TJH, Maryam A, Wang F, Chin YR, Lo PK. TNA-Mediated Antisense Strategy to Knockdown Akt Genes for Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Therapy. SMALL METHODS 2024:e2400291. [PMID: 38779741 DOI: 10.1002/smtd.202400291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 05/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) remains a significant challenge in terms of treatment, with limited efficacy of chemotherapy due to side effects and acquired drug resistance. In this study, a threose nucleic acid (TNA)-mediated antisense approach is employed to target therapeutic Akt genes for TNBC therapy. Specifically, two new TNA strands (anti-Akt2 and anti-Akt3) are designed and synthesized that specifically target Akt2 and Akt3 mRNAs. These TNAs exhibit exceptional enzymatic resistance, high specificity, enhance binding affinity with their target RNA molecules, and improve cellular uptake efficiency compared to natural nucleic acids. In both 2D and 3D TNBC cell models, the TNAs effectively inhibit the expression of their target mRNA and protein, surpassing the effects of scrambled TNAs. Moreover, when administered to TNBC-bearing animals in combination with lipid nanoparticles, the targeted anti-Akt TNAs lead to reduced tumor sizes and decreased target protein expression compared to control groups. Silencing the corresponding Akt genes also promotes apoptotic responses in TNBC and suppresses tumor cell proliferation in vivo. This study introduces a novel approach to TNBC therapy utilizing TNA polymers as antisense materials. Compared to conventional miRNA- and siRNA-based treatments, the TNA system holds promise as a cost-effective and scalable platform for TNBC treatment, owing to its remarkable enzymatic resistance, inexpensive synthetic reagents, and simple production procedures. It is anticipated that this TNA-based polymeric system, which targets anti-apoptotic proteins involved in breast tumor development and progression, can represent a significant advancement in the clinical development of effective antisense materials for TNBC, a cancer type that lacks effective targeted therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pan Li
- Department of Chemistry and State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
| | - Shixue Zheng
- Tung Biomedical Sciences Centre, Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
| | - Hoi Man Leung
- Department of Chemistry and State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
| | - Ling Sum Liu
- Department of Chemistry, Molecular Sciences Research Hub, Imperial College London, White City Campus, Wood Lane, London, W12 0BZ, U.K
| | - Tristan Juin Han Chang
- Department of Chemistry and State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
| | - Alishba Maryam
- Tung Biomedical Sciences Centre, Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
| | - Fei Wang
- The Tenth Affiliated Hospital, Southern Medical University (Dongguan People's Hospital), Dongguan, 523059, P. R. China
| | - Y Rebecca Chin
- Tung Biomedical Sciences Centre, Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
| | - Pik Kwan Lo
- Department of Chemistry and State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Biochip Technology, Biotech, and Health Care, Shenzhen Research Institute of City University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, 518057, P. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Leung HM, Liu LS, Cai Y, Li X, Huang Y, Chu HC, Chin YR, Lo PK. Light-Activated Nanodiamond-Based Drug Delivery Systems for Spatiotemporal Release of Antisense Oligonucleotides. Bioconjug Chem 2024; 35:623-632. [PMID: 38659333 DOI: 10.1021/acs.bioconjchem.4c00087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Nanodiamonds (NDs) are considered promising delivery platforms, but inaccurate and uncontrolled release of drugs at target sites is the biggest challenge of NDs in precision medicine. This study presents the development of phototriggerable ND-based drug delivery systems, utilizing ortho-nitrobenzyl (o-NB) molecules as photocleavable linkers between drugs and nanocarriers. UV irradiation specifically cleaved o-NB molecules and then was followed by releasing antisense oligonucleotides from ND-based carriers in both buffer and cellular environments. This ND system carried cell nonpermeable therapeutic agents for bypassing lysosomal trapping and degradation. The presence of fluorescent nitrogen-vacancy centers also allowed NDs to serve as biological probes for tracing in cells. We successfully demonstrated phototriggered release of antisense oligonucleotides from ND-based nanocarriers, reactivating their antisense functions. This highlights the potential of NDs, photocleavable linkers, and light stimuli to create advanced drug delivery systems for controlled drug release in disease therapy, opening possibilities for targeted and personalized treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hoi Man Leung
- Department of Chemistry and State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ling Sum Liu
- Department of Chemistry, Molecular Sciences Research Hub, Imperial College London, White City Campus, 82 Wood Lane, London W12 0BZ, United Kingdom
| | - Yuzhen Cai
- Department of Chemistry and State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Xinru Li
- Department of Chemistry and State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yizhi Huang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Tung Biomedical Sciences Centre, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Hoi Ching Chu
- Department of Chemistry and State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Y Rebecca Chin
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Tung Biomedical Sciences Centre, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Pik Kwan Lo
- Department of Chemistry and State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Key Laboratory of Biochip Technology, Biotech and Health Care, Shenzhen Research Institute of City University of Hong Kong, 518057 Shenzhen, China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Li P, Zhu C, Liu LS, Han CTJ, Chu HC, Li Z, Mao Z, Wang F, Lo PK. Ultra-stable threose nucleic acid-based biosensors for rapid and sensitive nucleic acid detection and in vivo imaging. Acta Biomater 2024; 177:472-485. [PMID: 38296012 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2024.01.031] [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: 09/09/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/13/2024]
Abstract
The human genome's nucleotide sequence variation, such as single nucleotide mutations, can cause numerous genetic diseases. However, detecting nucleic acids accurately and rapidly in complex biological samples remains a major challenge. While natural deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) has been used as biorecognition probes, it has limitations like poor specificity, reproducibility, nuclease-induced enzymatic degradation, and reduced bioactivity on solid surfaces. To address these issues, we introduce a stable and reliable biosensor called graphene oxide (GO)- threose nucleic acid (TNA). It comprises chemically modified TNA capture probes on GO for detecting and imaging target nucleic acids in vitro and in vivo, distinguishing single nucleobase mismatches, and monitoring dynamic changes in target microRNA (miRNA). By loading TNA capture probes onto the GO substrate, the GO-TNA sensing platform for nucleic acid detection demonstrates a significant 88-fold improvement in the detection limit compared to TNA probes alone. This platform offers a straightforward preparation method without the need for costly and labor-intensive isolation procedures or complex chemical reactions, enabling real-time analysis. The stable TNA-based GO sensing nanoplatform holds promise for disease diagnosis, enabling rapid and accurate detection and imaging of various disease-related nucleic acid molecules at the in vivo level. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: The study's significance lies in the development of the GO-TNA biosensor, which addresses limitations in nucleic acid detection. By utilizing chemically modified nucleic acid analogues, the biosensor offers improved reliability and specificity, distinguishing single nucleobase mismatches and avoiding false signals. Additionally, its ability to detect and image target nucleic acids in vivo facilitates studying disease mechanisms. The simplified preparation process enhances practicality and accessibility, enabling real-time analysis. The biosensor's potential applications extend beyond healthcare, contributing to environmental analysis and food safety. Overall, this study's findings have substantial implications for disease diagnosis, biomedical research, and diverse applications, advancing nucleic acid detection and its impact on various fields.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pan Li
- Department of Chemistry and State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
| | - Chiying Zhu
- Shenzhen Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, 518116 Shenzhen, P. R. China
| | - Ling Sum Liu
- Department of Chemistry, Molecular Sciences Research Hub, Imperial College London, White City Campus, Wood Lane, London W12 0BZ, United Kingdom
| | - Chang Tristan Juin Han
- Department of Chemistry and State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
| | - Hoi Ching Chu
- Department of Chemistry and State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
| | - Zhenhua Li
- The Tenth Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University (Dongguan People's Hospital), 523059 Dongguan, P. R. China
| | - Zhengwei Mao
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, 310027 Hangzhou, P. R. China.
| | - Fei Wang
- The Tenth Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University (Dongguan People's Hospital), 523059 Dongguan, P. R. China.
| | - Pik Kwan Lo
- Department of Chemistry and State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China; Key Laboratory of Biochip Technology, Biotech and Health Care, Shenzhen Research Institute of City University of Hong Kong, 518057 Shenzhen, P. R. China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Chen S, Heendeniya SN, Le BT, Rahimizadeh K, Rabiee N, Zahra QUA, Veedu RN. Splice-Modulating Antisense Oligonucleotides as Therapeutics for Inherited Metabolic Diseases. BioDrugs 2024; 38:177-203. [PMID: 38252341 PMCID: PMC10912209 DOI: 10.1007/s40259-024-00644-7] [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: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
The last decade (2013-2023) has seen unprecedented successes in the clinical translation of therapeutic antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs). Eight such molecules have been granted marketing approval by the United States Food and Drug Administration (US FDA) during the decade, after the first ASO drug, fomivirsen, was approved much earlier, in 1998. Splice-modulating ASOs have also been developed for the therapy of inborn errors of metabolism (IEMs), due to their ability to redirect aberrant splicing caused by mutations, thus recovering the expression of normal transcripts, and correcting the deficiency of functional proteins. The feasibility of treating IEM patients with splice-switching ASOs has been supported by FDA permission (2018) of the first "N-of-1" study of milasen, an investigational ASO drug for Batten disease. Although for IEM, owing to the rarity of individual disease and/or pathogenic mutation, only a low number of patients may be treated by ASOs that specifically suppress the aberrant splicing pattern of mutant precursor mRNA (pre-mRNA), splice-switching ASOs represent superior individualized molecular therapeutics for IEM. In this work, we first summarize the ASO technology with respect to its mechanisms of action, chemical modifications of nucleotides, and rational design of modified oligonucleotides; following that, we precisely provide a review of the current understanding of developing splice-modulating ASO-based therapeutics for IEM. In the concluding section, we suggest potential ways to improve and/or optimize the development of ASOs targeting IEM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Suxiang Chen
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Health Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA, 6150, Australia
- Precision Nucleic Acid Therapeutics, Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia
| | - Saumya Nishanga Heendeniya
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Health Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA, 6150, Australia
- Precision Nucleic Acid Therapeutics, Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia
| | - Bao T Le
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Health Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA, 6150, Australia
- Precision Nucleic Acid Therapeutics, Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia
- ProGenis Pharmaceuticals Pty Ltd, Bentley, WA, 6102, Australia
| | - Kamal Rahimizadeh
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Health Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA, 6150, Australia
- Precision Nucleic Acid Therapeutics, Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia
| | - Navid Rabiee
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Health Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA, 6150, Australia
- Precision Nucleic Acid Therapeutics, Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia
| | - Qurat Ul Ain Zahra
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Health Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA, 6150, Australia
- Precision Nucleic Acid Therapeutics, Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia
| | - Rakesh N Veedu
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Health Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA, 6150, Australia.
- Precision Nucleic Acid Therapeutics, Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia.
- ProGenis Pharmaceuticals Pty Ltd, Bentley, WA, 6102, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Wang J, Yu H. Threose nucleic acid as a primitive genetic polymer and a contemporary molecular tool. Bioorg Chem 2024; 143:107049. [PMID: 38150936 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2023.107049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
Nucleic acids serve a dual role as both genetic materials in living organisms and versatile molecular tools for various applications. Threose nuclei acid (TNA) stands out as a synthetic genetic polymer, holding potential as a primitive genetic material and as a contemporary molecular tool. In this review, we aim to provide an extensive overview of TNA research progress in these two key aspects. We begin with a retrospect of the initial discovery of TNA, followed by an in-depth look at the structural features of TNA duplex and experimental assessment of TNA as a possible RNA progenitor during early evolution of life on Earth. In the subsequent section, we delve into the recent development of TNA molecular tools such as aptamers, catalysts and antisense oligonucleotides. We emphasize the practical application of functional TNA molecules in the realms of targeted protein degradation and selective gene silencing. Our review culminates with a discussion of future research directions and the technical challenges that remain to be addressed in the field of TNA research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Coordination Chemistry, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center (ChemBIC), Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, China
| | - Hanyang Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Coordination Chemistry, Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center (ChemBIC), Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Sharma R. Innovative Genoceuticals in Human Gene Therapy Solutions: Challenges and Safe Clinical Trials of Orphan Gene Therapy Products. Curr Gene Ther 2024; 24:46-72. [PMID: 37702177 DOI: 10.2174/1566523223666230911120922] [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: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023]
Abstract
The success of gene therapy attempts is controversial and inconclusive. Currently, it is popular among the public, the scientific community, and manufacturers of Gene Therapy Medical Products. In the absence of any remedy or treatment options available for untreatable inborn metabolic orphan or genetic diseases, cancer, or brain diseases, gene therapy treatment by genoceuticals and T-cells for gene editing and recovery remains the preferred choice as the last hope. A new concept of "Genoceutical Gene Therapy" by using orphan 'nucleic acid-based therapy' aims to introduce scientific principles of treating acquired tissue damage and rare diseases. These Orphan Genoceuticals provide new scope for the 'genodrug' development and evaluation of genoceuticals and gene products for ideal 'gene therapy' use in humans with marketing authorization application (MAA). This perspective study focuses on the quality control, safety, and efficacy requirements of using 'nucleic acid-based and human cell-based new gene therapy' genoceutical products to set scientific advice on genoceutical-based 'orphan genodrug' design for clinical trials as per Western and European guidelines. The ethical Western FDA and European EMA guidelines suggest stringent legal and technical requirements on genoceutical medical products or orphan genodrug use for other countries to frame their own guidelines. The introduction section proposes lessknown 'orphan drug-like' properties of modified RNA/DNA, human cell origin gene therapy medical products, and their transgene products. The clinical trial section explores the genoceutical sources, FDA/EMA approvals for genoceutical efficacy criteria with challenges, and ethical guidelines relating to gene therapy of specific rare metabolic, cancer and neurological diseases. The safety evaluation of approved genoceuticals or orphan drugs is highlighted with basic principles and 'genovigilance' requirements (to observe any adverse effects, side effects, developed signs/symptoms) to establish their therapeutic use. Current European Union and Food and Drug Administration guidelines continuously administer fast-track regulatory legal framework from time to time, and they monitor the success of gene therapy medical product efficacy and safety. Moreover, new ethical guidelines on 'orphan drug-like genoceuticals' are updated for biodistribution of the vector, genokinetics studies of the transgene product, requirements for efficacy studies in industries for market authorization, and clinical safety endpoints with their specific concerns in clinical trials or public use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rakesh Sharma
- Surgery NMR Lab, Plastic Surgery Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
- CCSU, Government Medical College, Saharanpur, 247232 India
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Matsuda S, Bala S, Liao JY, Datta D, Mikami A, Woods L, Harp JM, Gilbert JA, Bisbe A, Manoharan RM, Kim M, Theile CS, Guenther DC, Jiang Y, Agarwal S, Maganti R, Schlegel MK, Zlatev I, Charisse K, Rajeev KG, Castoreno A, Maier M, Janas MM, Egli M, Chaput JC, Manoharan M. Shorter Is Better: The α-(l)-Threofuranosyl Nucleic Acid Modification Improves Stability, Potency, Safety, and Ago2 Binding and Mitigates Off-Target Effects of Small Interfering RNAs. J Am Chem Soc 2023; 145:19691-19706. [PMID: 37638886 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c04744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/29/2023]
Abstract
Chemical modifications are necessary to ensure the metabolic stability and efficacy of oligonucleotide-based therapeutics. Here, we describe analyses of the α-(l)-threofuranosyl nucleic acid (TNA) modification, which has a shorter 3'-2' internucleotide linkage than the natural DNA and RNA, in the context of small interfering RNAs (siRNAs). The TNA modification enhanced nuclease resistance more than 2'-O-methyl or 2'-fluoro ribose modifications. TNA-containing siRNAs were prepared as triantennary N-acetylgalactosamine conjugates and were tested in cultured cells and mice. With the exceptions of position 2 of the antisense strand and position 11 of the sense strand, the TNA modification did not inhibit the activity of the RNA interference machinery. In a rat toxicology study, TNA placed at position 7 of the antisense strand of the siRNA mitigated off-target effects, likely due to the decrease in the thermodynamic binding affinity relative to the 2'-O-methyl residue. Analysis of the crystal structure of an RNA octamer with a single TNA on each strand showed that the tetrose sugar adopts a C4'-exo pucker. Computational models of siRNA antisense strands containing TNA bound to Argonaute 2 suggest that TNA is well accommodated in the region kinked by the enzyme. The combined data indicate that the TNA nucleotides are promising modifications expected to increase the potency, duration of action, and safety of siRNAs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shigeo Matsuda
- Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, 675 West Kendall Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
| | - Saikat Bala
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, Irvine, California 92697-3958, United States
| | - Jen-Yu Liao
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, Irvine, California 92697-3958, United States
| | - Dhrubajyoti Datta
- Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, 675 West Kendall Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
| | - Atsushi Mikami
- Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, 675 West Kendall Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
| | - Lauren Woods
- Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, 675 West Kendall Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
| | - Joel M Harp
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37232-0146, United States
| | - Jason A Gilbert
- Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, 675 West Kendall Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
| | - Anna Bisbe
- Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, 675 West Kendall Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
| | - Rajar M Manoharan
- Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, 675 West Kendall Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
| | - MaryBeth Kim
- Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, 675 West Kendall Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
| | - Christopher S Theile
- Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, 675 West Kendall Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
| | - Dale C Guenther
- Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, 675 West Kendall Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
| | - Yongfeng Jiang
- Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, 675 West Kendall Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
| | - Saket Agarwal
- Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, 675 West Kendall Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
| | - Rajanikanth Maganti
- Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, 675 West Kendall Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
| | - Mark K Schlegel
- Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, 675 West Kendall Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
| | - Ivan Zlatev
- Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, 675 West Kendall Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
| | - Klaus Charisse
- Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, 675 West Kendall Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
| | | | - Adam Castoreno
- Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, 675 West Kendall Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
| | - Martin Maier
- Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, 675 West Kendall Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
| | - Maja M Janas
- Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, 675 West Kendall Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
| | - Martin Egli
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37232-0146, United States
| | - John C Chaput
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, Irvine, California 92697-3958, United States
| | - Muthiah Manoharan
- Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, 675 West Kendall Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Kawamoto Y, Wu Y, Takahashi Y, Takakura Y. Development of nucleic acid medicines based on chemical technology. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2023; 199:114872. [PMID: 37244354 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2023.114872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Oligonucleotide-based therapeutics have attracted attention as an emerging modality that includes the modulation of genes and their binding proteins related to diseases, allowing us to take action on previously undruggable targets. Since the late 2010s, the number of oligonucleotide medicines approved for clinical uses has dramatically increased. Various chemistry-based technologies have been developed to improve the therapeutic properties of oligonucleotides, such as chemical modification, conjugation, and nanoparticle formation, which can increase nuclease resistance, enhance affinity and selectivity to target sites, suppress off-target effects, and improve pharmacokinetic properties. Similar strategies employing modified nucleobases and lipid nanoparticles have been used for developing coronavirus disease 2019 mRNA vaccines. In this review, we provide an overview of the development of chemistry-based technologies aimed at using nucleic acids for developing therapeutics over the past several decades, with a specific emphasis on the structural design and functionality of chemical modification strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yusuke Kawamoto
- Department of Biopharmaceutics and Drug Metabolism, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyoto University, Sakyo, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan.
| | - You Wu
- Department of Biopharmaceutics and Drug Metabolism, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyoto University, Sakyo, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
| | - Yuki Takahashi
- Department of Biopharmaceutics and Drug Metabolism, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyoto University, Sakyo, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
| | - Yoshinobu Takakura
- Department of Biopharmaceutics and Drug Metabolism, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyoto University, Sakyo, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Scavenger receptor-targeted plaque delivery of microRNA-coated nanoparticles for alleviating atherosclerosis. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2201443119. [PMID: 36122215 PMCID: PMC9522431 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2201443119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis treatments by gene regulation are garnering attention, yet delivery of gene cargoes to atherosclerotic plaques remains inefficient. Here, we demonstrate that assembly of therapeutic oligonucleotides into a three-dimensional spherical nucleic acid nanostructure improves their systemic delivery to the plaque and the treatment of atherosclerosis. This noncationic nanoparticle contains a shell of microRNA-146a oligonucleotides, which regulate the NF-κB pathway, for achieving transfection-free cellular entry. Upon an intravenous injection into apolipoprotein E knockout mice fed with a high-cholesterol diet, this nanoparticle naturally targets class A scavenger receptor on plaque macrophages and endothelial cells, contributing to elevated delivery to the plaques (∼1.2% of the injected dose). Repeated injections of the nanoparticle modulate genes related to immune response and vascular inflammation, leading to reduced and stabilized plaques but without inducing severe toxicity. Our nanoparticle offers a safe and effective treatment of atherosclerosis and reveals the promise of nucleic acid nanotechnology for cardiovascular disease.
Collapse
|
12
|
Flamme M, Hanlon S, Marzuoli I, Püntener K, Sladojevich F, Hollenstein M. Evaluation of 3'-phosphate as a transient protecting group for controlled enzymatic synthesis of DNA and XNA oligonucleotides. Commun Chem 2022; 5:68. [PMID: 36697944 PMCID: PMC9814670 DOI: 10.1038/s42004-022-00685-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Chemically modified oligonucleotides have advanced as important therapeutic tools as reflected by the recent advent of mRNA vaccines and the FDA-approval of various siRNA and antisense oligonucleotides. These sequences are typically accessed by solid-phase synthesis which despite numerous advantages is restricted to short sequences and displays a limited tolerance to functional groups. Controlled enzymatic synthesis is an emerging alternative synthetic methodology that circumvents the limitations of traditional solid-phase synthesis. So far, most approaches strived to improve controlled enzymatic synthesis of canonical DNA and no potential routes to access xenonucleic acids (XNAs) have been reported. In this context, we have investigated the possibility of using phosphate as a transient protecting group for controlled enzymatic synthesis of DNA and locked nucleic acid (LNA) oligonucleotides. Phosphate is ubiquitously employed in natural systems and we demonstrate that this group displays most characteristics required for controlled enzymatic synthesis. We have devised robust synthetic pathways leading to these challenging compounds and we have discovered a hitherto unknown phosphatase activity of various DNA polymerases. These findings open up directions for the design of protected DNA and XNA nucleoside triphosphates for controlled enzymatic synthesis of chemically modified nucleic acids.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marie Flamme
- grid.508487.60000 0004 7885 7602Institut Pasteur, Université de Paris Cité, CNRS UMR3523, Department of Structural Biology and Chemistry, Laboratory for Bioorganic Chemistry of Nucleic Acids, 28, rue du Docteur Roux, 75724 Paris Cedex 15, Paris, France
| | - Steven Hanlon
- grid.417570.00000 0004 0374 1269Pharmaceutical Devision, Synthetic Molecules Technical Development, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, 4070 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Irene Marzuoli
- grid.417570.00000 0004 0374 1269Pharmaceutical Devision, Synthetic Molecules Technical Development, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, 4070 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Kurt Püntener
- grid.417570.00000 0004 0374 1269Pharmaceutical Devision, Synthetic Molecules Technical Development, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, 4070 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Filippo Sladojevich
- grid.417570.00000 0004 0374 1269Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Grenzacherstrasse 124, 4070 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Marcel Hollenstein
- grid.508487.60000 0004 7885 7602Institut Pasteur, Université de Paris Cité, CNRS UMR3523, Department of Structural Biology and Chemistry, Laboratory for Bioorganic Chemistry of Nucleic Acids, 28, rue du Docteur Roux, 75724 Paris Cedex 15, Paris, France
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Severins I, Joo C, van Noort J. Exploring molecular biology in sequence space: The road to next-generation single-molecule biophysics. Mol Cell 2022; 82:1788-1805. [PMID: 35561688 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2022.04.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Next-generation sequencing techniques have led to a new quantitative dimension in the biological sciences. In particular, integrating sequencing techniques with biophysical tools allows sequence-dependent mechanistic studies. Using the millions of DNA clusters that are generated during sequencing to perform high-throughput binding affinity and kinetics measurements enabled the construction of energy landscapes in sequence space, uncovering relationships between sequence, structure, and function. Here, we review the approaches to perform ensemble fluorescence experiments on next-generation sequencing chips for variations of DNA, RNA, and protein sequences. As the next step, we anticipate that these fluorescence experiments will be pushed to the single-molecule level, which can directly uncover kinetics and molecular heterogeneity in an unprecedented high-throughput fashion. Molecular biophysics in sequence space, both at the ensemble and single-molecule level, leads to new mechanistic insights. The wide spectrum of applications in biology and medicine ranges from the fundamental understanding of evolutionary pathways to the development of new therapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ivo Severins
- Department of BioNanoScience, Kavli Institute of Nanoscience, Delft University of Technology, Van der Maasweg 9, 2629 HZ Delft, the Netherlands; Biological and Soft Matter Physics, Huygens-Kamerlingh Onnes Laboratory, Leiden University, Niels Bohrweg 2, 2333 CA Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Chirlmin Joo
- Department of BioNanoScience, Kavli Institute of Nanoscience, Delft University of Technology, Van der Maasweg 9, 2629 HZ Delft, the Netherlands.
| | - John van Noort
- Biological and Soft Matter Physics, Huygens-Kamerlingh Onnes Laboratory, Leiden University, Niels Bohrweg 2, 2333 CA Leiden, the Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Wang F, Liu LS, Li P, Lau CH, Leung HM, Chin YR, Tin C, Lo PK. Cellular uptake, tissue penetration, biodistribution, and biosafety of threose nucleic acids: Assessing in vitro and in vivo delivery. Mater Today Bio 2022; 15:100299. [PMID: 35637854 PMCID: PMC9142632 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2022.100299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
|
15
|
Wang F, Liu LS, Li P, Leung HM, Tam DY, Lo PK. Biologically stable threose nucleic acid-based probes for real-time microRNA detection and imaging in living cells. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2022; 27:787-796. [PMID: 35116190 PMCID: PMC8789592 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2021.12.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
We successfully fabricated threose nucleic acid (TNA)-based probes for real-time monitoring of target miRNA levels in cells. Our TNA probe is comprised of a fluorophore-labeled TNA reporter strand by partially hybridizing to a quencher-labeled TNA that is designed to be antisense to a target RNA transcript; this results in effective quenching of its fluorescence. In the presence of RNA targets, the antisense capture sequence of the TNA binds to targeted transcripts to form longer, thermodynamic stable duplexes. This binding event displaces the reporter strand from the quencher resulting in a discrete “turning-on” of the fluorescence. Our TNA probe is highly specific and selective toward target miRNA and is able to distinguish one to two base mismatches in the target RNA. Compared with DNA probes, our TNA probes exhibited favorable nuclease stability, thermal stability, and exceptional storage ability for long-term cellular studies. Our TNA probes are efficiently taken up by cells with negligible cytotoxicity for dynamic detection of target miRNAs and can also differentiate the distinct target miRNA expression levels in different cell lines. This work illuminates for using TNA as a building component to construct a biocompatible probe for miRNA detection that offers alternative molecular reagents for miRNA-related diagnostics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fei Wang
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ling Sum Liu
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Pan Li
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Hoi Man Leung
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Dick Yan Tam
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Pik Kwan Lo
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong SAR, China.,Key Laboratory of Biochip Technology, Biotech and Health Care, Shenzhen Research Institute of City University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen 518057, China
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
An RNA-cleaving threose nucleic acid enzyme capable of single point mutation discrimination. Nat Chem 2022; 14:350-359. [PMID: 34916596 DOI: 10.1038/s41557-021-00847-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Threose nucleic acid has been considered a potential evolutionary progenitor of RNA because of its chemical simplicity, base pairing properties and capacity for higher-order functions such as folding and specific ligand binding. Here we report the in vitro selection of RNA-cleaving threose nucleic acid enzymes. One such enzyme, Tz1, catalyses a site-specific RNA-cleavage reaction with an observed pseudo first-order rate constant (kobs) of 0.016 min-1. The catalytic activity of Tz1 is maximal at 8 mM Mg2+ and remains relatively constant from pH 5.3 to 9.0. Tz1 preferentially cleaves a mutant epidermal growth factor receptor RNA substrate with a single point substitution, while leaving the wild-type intact. We demonstrate that Tz1 mediates selective gene silencing of the mutant epidermal growth factor receptor in eukaryotic cells. The identification of catalytic threose nucleic acids provides further experimental support for threose nucleic acid as an ancestral genetic and functional material. The demonstration of Tz1 mediating selective knockdown of intracellular RNA suggests that functional threose nucleic acids could be developed for future biomedical applications.
Collapse
|
17
|
Wang F, Li P, Chu HC, Lo PK. Nucleic Acids and Their Analogues for Biomedical Applications. BIOSENSORS 2022; 12:bios12020093. [PMID: 35200353 PMCID: PMC8869748 DOI: 10.3390/bios12020093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Nucleic acids are emerging as powerful and functional biomaterials due to their molecular recognition ability, programmability, and ease of synthesis and chemical modification. Various types of nucleic acids have been used as gene regulation tools or therapeutic agents for the treatment of human diseases with genetic disorders. Nucleic acids can also be used to develop sensing platforms for detecting ions, small molecules, proteins, and cells. Their performance can be improved through integration with other organic or inorganic nanomaterials. To further enhance their biological properties, various chemically modified nucleic acid analogues can be generated by modifying their phosphodiester backbone, sugar moiety, nucleobase, or combined sites. Alternatively, using nucleic acids as building blocks for self-assembly of highly ordered nanostructures would enhance their biological stability and cellular uptake efficiency. In this review, we will focus on the development and biomedical applications of structural and functional natural nucleic acids, as well as the chemically modified nucleic acid analogues over the past ten years. The recent progress in the development of functional nanomaterials based on self-assembled DNA-based platforms for gene regulation, biosensing, drug delivery, and therapy will also be presented. We will then summarize with a discussion on the advanced development of nucleic acid research, highlight some of the challenges faced and propose suggestions for further improvement.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fei Wang
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China; (F.W.); (P.L.); (H.C.C.)
| | - Pan Li
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China; (F.W.); (P.L.); (H.C.C.)
| | - Hoi Ching Chu
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China; (F.W.); (P.L.); (H.C.C.)
| | - Pik Kwan Lo
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China; (F.W.); (P.L.); (H.C.C.)
- Key Laboratory of Biochip Technology, Biotech and Health Care, Shenzhen Research Institute of City University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen 518057, China
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Wang Y, Wang Y, Song D, Sun X, Zhang Z, Li X, Li Z, Yu H. A Threose Nucleic Acid Enzyme with RNA Ligase Activity. J Am Chem Soc 2021; 143:8154-8163. [PMID: 34028252 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.1c02895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Threose nucleic acid (TNA) has been considered a potential RNA progenitor in evolution due to its chemical simplicity and base pairing property. Catalytic TNA sequences with RNA ligase activities might have facilitated the transition to the RNA world. Here we report the isolation of RNA ligase TNA enzymes by in vitro selection. The identified TNA enzyme T8-6 catalyzes the formation of a 2'-5' phosphoester bond between a 2',3'-diol and a 5'-triphosphate group, with a kobs of 1.1 × 10-2 min-1 (40 mM Mg2+, pH 9.0). For efficient reaction, T8-6 requires UA|GA at the ligation junction and tolerates variations at other substrate positions. Functional RNAs such as hammerhead ribozyme can be prepared by T8-6-catalyzed ligation, with site-specific introduction of a 2'-5' linkage. Together, this work provides experimental support for TNA as a plausible pre-RNA genetic polymer and also offers an alternative molecular tool for biotechnology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Coordination Chemistry, Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Artificial Functional Materials, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center (ChemBIC), Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, China
| | - Yueyao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Coordination Chemistry, Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Artificial Functional Materials, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center (ChemBIC), Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, China.,Applied Adaptome Immunology Institute, Jiangsu Industrial Technology Research Institute, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, China
| | - Dongfan Song
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, China
| | - Xin Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Coordination Chemistry, Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Artificial Functional Materials, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center (ChemBIC), Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, China
| | - Ze Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Coordination Chemistry, Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Artificial Functional Materials, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center (ChemBIC), Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, China
| | - Xintong Li
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China
| | - Zhe Li
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, China
| | - Hanyang Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Coordination Chemistry, Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Artificial Functional Materials, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center (ChemBIC), Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, China
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Khorkova O, Hsiao J, Wahlestedt C. Nucleic Acid-Based Therapeutics in Orphan Neurological Disorders: Recent Developments. Front Mol Biosci 2021; 8:643681. [PMID: 33996898 PMCID: PMC8115123 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.643681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The possibility of rational design and the resulting faster and more cost-efficient development cycles of nucleic acid–based therapeutics (NBTs), such as antisense oligonucleotides, siRNAs, and gene therapy vectors, have fueled increased activity in developing therapies for orphan diseases. Despite the difficulty of delivering NBTs beyond the blood–brain barrier, neurological diseases are significantly represented among the first targets for NBTs. As orphan disease NBTs are now entering the clinical stage, substantial efforts are required to develop the scientific background and infrastructure for NBT design and mechanistic studies, genetic testing, understanding natural history of orphan disorders, data sharing, NBT manufacturing, and regulatory support. The outcomes of these efforts will also benefit patients with “common” diseases by improving diagnostics, developing the widely applicable NBT technology platforms, and promoting deeper understanding of biological mechanisms that underlie disease pathogenesis. Furthermore, with successes in genetic research, a growing proportion of “common” disease cases can now be attributed to mutations in particular genes, essentially extending the orphan disease field. Together, the developments occurring in orphan diseases are building the foundation for the future of personalized medicine. In this review, we will focus on recent achievements in developing therapies for orphan neurological disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Claes Wahlestedt
- Center for Therapeutic Innovation and Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Miami, Miami, FL, United States
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Lu X, Wu X, Wu T, Han L, Liu J, Ding B. Efficient construction of a stable linear gene based on a TNA loop modified primer pair for gene delivery. Chem Commun (Camb) 2021; 56:9894-9897. [PMID: 32720666 DOI: 10.1039/d0cc04356g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
A terminal-closed linear gene with strong exonuclease resistance and serum stability was successfully constructed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) with an α-l-threose nucleic acid (TNA) loop modified primer pair, which can be used as an efficient gene expression system in eukaryotic cells for gene delivery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xuehe Lu
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Henan Institute of Advanced Technology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China and CAS Key Laboratory of Nanosystem and Hierarchical Fabrication, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Beijing, 100190, China.
| | - Xiaohui Wu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nanosystem and Hierarchical Fabrication, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Beijing, 100190, China. and University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Tiantian Wu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nanosystem and Hierarchical Fabrication, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Beijing, 100190, China. and University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Lin Han
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Henan Institute of Advanced Technology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China and CAS Key Laboratory of Nanosystem and Hierarchical Fabrication, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Beijing, 100190, China.
| | - Jianbing Liu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nanosystem and Hierarchical Fabrication, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Beijing, 100190, China. and University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Baoquan Ding
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Henan Institute of Advanced Technology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China and CAS Key Laboratory of Nanosystem and Hierarchical Fabrication, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Beijing, 100190, China. and University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Liu LS, Wang F, Ge Y, Lo PK. Recent Developments in Aptasensors for Diagnostic Applications. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2021; 13:9329-9358. [PMID: 33155468 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.0c14788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Aptamers are exciting smart molecular probes for specific recognition of disease biomarkers. A number of strategies have been developed to convert target-aptamer binding into physically detectable signals. Since the aptamer sequence was first discovered, a large variety of aptamer-based biosensors have been developed, with considerable attention paid to their potential applications in clinical diagnostics. So far, a variety of techniques in combination with a wide range of functional nanomaterials have been used for the design of aptasensors to further improve the sensitivity and detection limit of target determination. In this paper, the advantages of aptamers over traditional antibodies as the molecular recognition components in biosensors for high-throughput screening target molecules are highlighted. Aptamer-target pairing configurations are predominantly single- or dual-site binding; the design of recognition modes of each aptamer-target pairing configuration is described. Furthermore, signal transduction strategies including optical, electrical, mechanical, and mass-sensitive modes are clearly explained together with examples. Finally, we summarize the recent progress in the development of aptamer-based biosensors for clinical diagnosis, including detection of cancer and disease biomarkers and in vivo molecular imaging. We then conclude with a discussion on the advanced development and challenges of aptasensors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ling Sum Liu
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Fei Wang
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yonghe Ge
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Pik Kwan Lo
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Key Laboratory of Biochip Technology, Biotech and Health Centre, Shenzhen Research Institute of City University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen 518057, China
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Abstract
Genomes can be viewed as constantly updated memory systems where information propagated in cells is refined over time by natural selection. This process, commonly known as heredity and evolution, has been the sole domain of DNA since the origin of prokaryotes. Now, some 3.5 billion years later, the pendulum of discovery has swung in a new direction, with carefully trained practitioners enabling the replication and evolution of "xeno-nucleic acids" or "XNAs"-synthetic genetic polymers in which the natural sugar found in DNA and RNA has been replaced with a different type of sugar moiety. XNAs have attracted significant attention as new polymers for synthetic biology, biotechnology, and medicine because of their unique physicochemical properties that may include increased biological stability, enhanced chemical stability, altered helical geometry, or even elevated thermodynamics of Watson-Crick base pairing.This Account describes our contribution to the field of synthetic biology, where chemical synthesis and polymerase engineering have allowed my lab and others to extend the concepts of heredity and evolution to synthetic genetic polymers with backbone structures that are distinct from those found in nature. I will begin with a discussion of α-l-threofuranosyl nucleic acid (TNA), a specific type of XNA that was chosen as a model system to represent any XNA system. I will then proceed to discuss advances in organic chemistry that were made to enable the synthesis of gram quantities of TNA phosphoramidites and nucleoside triphosphates, the monomers used for solid-phase and polymerase-mediated TNA synthesis, respectively. Next, I will recount our development of droplet-based optical sorting (DrOPS), a single-cell microfluidic technique that was established to evolve XNA polymerases in the laboratory. This section will conclude with structural insights that have been gained by solving X-ray crystal structures of a laboratory-evolved TNA polymerase and a natural DNA polymerase that functions with general reverse transcriptase activity on XNA templates.The final passage of this Account will examine the role that XNAs have played in synthetic biology by highlighting examples in which engineered polymerases have enabled the evolution of biologically stable affinity reagents (aptamers) and catalysts (XNAzymes) as well as the storage and retrieval of binary information encoded in electronic word and picture file formats. Because these examples provide only a glimpse of what the future may have in store for XNA, I will conclude the Account with my thoughts on how synthetic genetic polymers could help drive new innovations in synthetic biology and molecular medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John C. Chaput
- Departments of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemistry, and Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, California 92697-3958, United States
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Li X, Li Z, Yu H. Selection of threose nucleic acid aptamers to block PD-1/PD-L1 interaction for cancer immunotherapy. Chem Commun (Camb) 2020; 56:14653-14656. [PMID: 33155587 DOI: 10.1039/d0cc06032a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Threose nucleic acid (TNA) aptamers were selected in vitro to bind PD-L1 protein and inhibit its interaction with PD-1. These biologically stable TNA aptamers bound target proteins with nanomolar affinities, and effectively blocked PD-1/PD-L1 interaction in vitro. After injection into a colon cancer xenograft mouse model, the TNA aptamer N5 was specifically accumulated at the tumour site, and significantly inhibited tumour growth in vivo.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xintong Li
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Artificial Functional Materials, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, China.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Komine H, Mori S, Morihiro K, Ishida K, Okuda T, Kasahara Y, Aoyama H, Yamaguchi T, Obika S. Synthesis and Evaluation of Artificial Nucleic Acid Bearing an Oxanorbornane Scaffold. Molecules 2020; 25:E1732. [PMID: 32283778 PMCID: PMC7180610 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25071732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Revised: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural oligonucleotides have many rotatable single bonds, and thus their structures are inherently flexible. Structural flexibility leads to an entropic loss when unwound oligonucleotides form a duplex with single-stranded DNA or RNA. An effective approach to reduce such entropic loss in the duplex-formation is the conformational restriction of the flexible phosphodiester linkage and/or sugar moiety. We here report the synthesis and biophysical properties of a novel artificial nucleic acid bearing an oxanorbornane scaffold (OxNorNA), where the adamant oxanorbornane was expected to rigidify the structures of both the linkage and sugar parts of nucleic acid. OxNorNA phosphoramidite with a uracil (U) nucleobase was successfully synthesized over 15 steps from a known sugar-derived cyclopentene. Thereafter, the given phosphoramidite was incorporated into the designed oligonucleotides. Thermal denaturation experiments revealed that oligonucleotides modified with the conformationally restricted OxNorNA-U properly form a duplex with the complementally DNA or RNA strands, although the Tm values of OxNorNA-U-modified oligonucleotides were lower than those of the corresponding natural oligonucleotides. As we had designed, entropic loss during the duplex-formation was reduced by the OxNorNA modification. Moreover, the OxNorNA-U-modified oligonucleotide was confirmed to have extremely high stability against 3'-exonuclease activity, and its stability was even higher than those of the phosphorothioate-modified counterparts (Sp and Rp). With the overall biophysical properties of OxNorNA-U, we expect that OxNorNA could be used for specialized applications, such as conformational fixation and/or bio-stability enhancement of therapeutic oligonucleotides (e.g., aptamers).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hibiki Komine
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, 1-6 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan; (H.K.); (S.M.); (K.I.); (T.O.); (Y.K.); (H.A.)
| | - Shohei Mori
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, 1-6 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan; (H.K.); (S.M.); (K.I.); (T.O.); (Y.K.); (H.A.)
| | - Kunihiko Morihiro
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, 1-6 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan; (H.K.); (S.M.); (K.I.); (T.O.); (Y.K.); (H.A.)
- National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, Health and Nutrition (NIBIOHN), 7-6-8 Saito-Asagi, Ibaraki, Osaka 567-0085, Japan
| | - Kenta Ishida
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, 1-6 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan; (H.K.); (S.M.); (K.I.); (T.O.); (Y.K.); (H.A.)
| | - Takumi Okuda
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, 1-6 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan; (H.K.); (S.M.); (K.I.); (T.O.); (Y.K.); (H.A.)
| | - Yuuya Kasahara
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, 1-6 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan; (H.K.); (S.M.); (K.I.); (T.O.); (Y.K.); (H.A.)
- National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, Health and Nutrition (NIBIOHN), 7-6-8 Saito-Asagi, Ibaraki, Osaka 567-0085, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Aoyama
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, 1-6 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan; (H.K.); (S.M.); (K.I.); (T.O.); (Y.K.); (H.A.)
| | - Takao Yamaguchi
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, 1-6 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan; (H.K.); (S.M.); (K.I.); (T.O.); (Y.K.); (H.A.)
| | - Satoshi Obika
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, 1-6 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan; (H.K.); (S.M.); (K.I.); (T.O.); (Y.K.); (H.A.)
- National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, Health and Nutrition (NIBIOHN), 7-6-8 Saito-Asagi, Ibaraki, Osaka 567-0085, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Wang F, Liu LS, Lau CH, Han Chang TJ, Tam DY, Leung HM, Tin C, Lo PK. Synthetic α-l-Threose Nucleic Acids Targeting BcL-2 Show Gene Silencing and in Vivo Antitumor Activity for Cancer Therapy. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2019; 11:38510-38518. [PMID: 31556592 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.9b14324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
We design and synthesize a sequence-defined α-l-threose nucleic acid (TNA) polymer, which is complementary to certain nucleotide sites of target anti-apoptotic proteins, BcL-2 involving in development and progression of tumors. Compared to scramble TNA, anti-BcL-2 TNA significantly suppresses target mRNA and protein expression in cancerous cells and shows antitumor activity in carcinoma xenografts, resulting in suppression of tumor cell growth and induction of tumor cell death. Together with good biocompatibility, very low toxicity, excellent specificity features, and strong binding affinity toward the complementary target RNAs, TNAs become new useful biomaterials and effective alternatives to traditional antisense oligonucleotides including locked nucleic acids, morpholino oligomers, and peptide nucleic acids in antisense therapy. Compared to conventional cancer therapy such as radiotherapy, surgery, and chemotherapy, we anticipate that this TNA-based polymeric system will work effectively in antisense cancer therapy and shortly start to play an important role in practical application.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Pik Kwan Lo
- Key Laboratory of Biochip Technology, Biotech and Health Care , Shenzhen Research Institute of City University of Hong Kong , Shenzhen 518057 , China
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Morihiro K, Okamoto A. A highly constrained nucleic acid analog based on α-l-threosamine. NUCLEOSIDES NUCLEOTIDES & NUCLEIC ACIDS 2019; 39:270-279. [PMID: 31530088 DOI: 10.1080/15257770.2019.1666278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Chemically modified oligonucleotides (ONs) have recently gained much attention as therapeutic materials because of their improved properties. Here, a newly designed nucleic acid analog based on α-l-threosamine (named cTNA) is reported. cTNA has a "dual" constrained structure, with a bridged sugar moiety and shorter phosphoramidate backbone, to reduce the entropy loss during the hybridization. Unexpectedly, ONs containing the cTNA unit showed lower binding affinity with complementary RNA and DNA than natural ONs. Quantum chemical calculations imply that the relative nucleobase orientation of cTNA may be unfavorable for hybridization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kunihiko Morihiro
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Akimitsu Okamoto
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.,Research Center for Advanced Science and Technology, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Chiu YTE, Li H, Choi CHJ. Progress toward Understanding the Interactions between DNA Nanostructures and the Cell. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2019; 15:e1805416. [PMID: 30786143 DOI: 10.1002/smll.201805416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2018] [Revised: 01/26/2019] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Advances in DNA nanotechnology empower the programmable assembly of DNA building blocks (oligonucleotides and plasmids) into DNA nanostructures with precise architectural control. As DNA nanostructures are biocompatible and can naturally enter mammalian cells without the aid of transfection agents, they have found numerous biological or biomedical applications as delivery carriers of therapeutic and imaging cargoes into mammalian cells for at least a decade. Nevertheless, mechanistic studies on how DNA nanostructures interact with cells have remained limited and incomprehensive until 2-3 years ago. This Review presents the recent progress in elucidating the "cell-nano" interactions of DNA nanostructures, with an emphasis on three key classes of structures commonly utilized in intracellular applications: tile-based structures, origami-based structures, and nanoparticle-templated structures. Structural parameters of DNA nanostructures and strategies of biochemical modification for promoting intracellular delivery are discussed. Biological mechanisms for cellular uptake, including specific pathways and receptors involved, are outlined. Routes of intracellular trafficking and degradation, together with strategies for re-directing their trafficking, are delineated. This Review concludes with several aspects of the "bio-nano" interactions of DNA nanostructures that warrant future investigations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yee Ting Elaine Chiu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong
| | - Huize Li
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong
| | - Chung Hang Jonathan Choi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Lackey HH, Peterson EM, Chen Z, Harris JM, Heemstra JM. Thermostability Trends of TNA:DNA Duplexes Reveal Strong Purine Dependence. ACS Synth Biol 2019; 8:1144-1152. [PMID: 30964657 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.9b00028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The development of high fidelity polymerases and streamlined synthesis of threose nucleic acid (TNA) triphosphates and phosphoramidites has made TNA accessible as a motif for generating nuclease-resistant high-affinity aptamers, antisense oligos, and synthetic genetic biopolymers. Little is known, however, about the thermostability trends of TNA:DNA duplexes. Here we investigate the thermostability of 14 TNA:DNA duplexes with the goal of elucidating the fundamental factors governing TNA:DNA duplex stability. We find that purine content in TNA significantly influences the stability and conformation of TNA:DNA duplexes. Low TNA purine content destabilizes duplexes, with Tm values often 5 °C lower than analogous DNA:DNA and RNA:DNA duplexes. By contrast, TNA:DNA duplexes having high TNA purine content display greater stability than DNA:DNA or RNA:DNA duplexes having the same sequences. High TNA purine content leads TNA:DNA duplexes to adopt conformations similar to RNA:RNA (A-form) configuration, whereas duplexes with low TNA purine content have conformations more similar to DNA:DNA (B-form) configuration. These insights provide a basis for understanding and predicting TNA:DNA duplex stability, which is anticipated to guide the practical use of TNA in biotechnology applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hershel H. Lackey
- Department of Chemistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
| | - Eric M. Peterson
- Department of Chemistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
| | - Zhe Chen
- Department of Chemistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
| | - Joel M. Harris
- Department of Chemistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
| | - Jennifer M. Heemstra
- Department of Chemistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
- Department of Chemistry, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
McCloskey CM, Liao JY, Bala S, Chaput JC. Ligase-Mediated Threose Nucleic Acid Synthesis on DNA Templates. ACS Synth Biol 2019; 8:282-286. [PMID: 30629885 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.8b00511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Ligases are a class of enzymes that catalyze the formation of phosphodiester bonds between an oligonucleotide donor with a 5' terminal phosphate and an oligonucleotide acceptor with a 3' terminal hydroxyl group. Here, we wished to explore the substrate specificity of naturally occurring DNA and RNA ligases to determine whether the molecular recognition of these enzymes is sufficiently general to synthesize alternative genetic polymers with backbone structures that are distinct from those found in nature. We chose threose nucleic acid (TNA) as a model system, as TNA is known to be biologically stable and capable of undergoing Darwinian evolution. Enzyme screening and reaction optimization identified several ligases that can recognize TNA as either the donor or acceptor strand with DNA. Less discrimination occurs on the acceptor strand indicating that the determinants of substrate specificity depend primarily on the composition of the donor strand. Remarkably, T3 and T7 ligases were able to join TNA homopolymers together, which is surprising given that the TNA backbone is one atom shorter than that of DNA. In this reaction, the base composition of the ligation junction strongly favors the formation of A-T and A-G linkages. We suggest that these results will enable the assembly of TNA oligonucleotides of lengths beyond what is currently possible by solid-phase synthesis and provide a starting point for further optimization by directed evolution.
Collapse
|
30
|
Lange MJ, Burke DH, Chaput JC. Activation of Innate Immune Responses by a CpG Oligonucleotide Sequence Composed Entirely of Threose Nucleic Acid. Nucleic Acid Ther 2018; 29:51-59. [PMID: 30526333 DOI: 10.1089/nat.2018.0751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent advances in synthetic biology have led to the development of nucleic acid polymers with backbone structures distinct from those found in nature, termed xeno-nucleic acids (XNAs). Several unique properties of XNAs make them attractive as nucleic acid therapeutics, most notably their high resistance to serum nucleases and ability to form Watson-Crick base pairing with DNA and RNA. The ability of XNAs to induce immune responses has not been investigated. Threose nucleic acid (TNA), a type of XNA, is recalcitrant to nuclease digestion and capable of undergoing Darwinian evolution to produce high affinity aptamers; thus, TNA is an attractive candidate for diverse applications, including nucleic acid therapeutics. In this study, we evaluated a TNA oligonucleotide derived from a cytosine-phosphate-guanine oligonucleotide sequence known to activate toll-like receptor 9-dependent immune signaling in B cell lines. We observed a slight induction of relevant mRNA signals, robust B cell line activation, and negligible effects on cellular proliferation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Margaret J Lange
- 1 Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri.,2 Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri
| | - Donald H Burke
- 1 Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri.,2 Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri.,3 Department of Biochemistry, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri
| | - John C Chaput
- 4 Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, Irvine, California.,5 Department of Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, California.,6 Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, California
| |
Collapse
|