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Chałupnik P, Szymańska E. Kainate Receptor Antagonists: Recent Advances and Therapeutic Perspective. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:1908. [PMID: 36768227 PMCID: PMC9916396 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24031908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Since the 1990s, ionotropic glutamate receptors have served as an outstanding target for drug discovery research aimed at the discovery of new neurotherapeutic agents. With the recent approval of perampanel, the first marketed non-competitive antagonist of AMPA receptors, particular interest has been directed toward 'non-NMDA' (AMPA and kainate) receptor inhibitors. Although the role of AMPA receptors in the development of neurological or psychiatric disorders has been well recognized and characterized, progress in understanding the function of kainate receptors (KARs) has been hampered, mainly due to the lack of specific and selective pharmacological tools. The latest findings in the biology of KA receptors indicate that they are involved in neurophysiological activity and play an important role in both health and disease, including conditions such as anxiety, schizophrenia, epilepsy, neuropathic pain, and migraine. Therefore, we reviewed recent advances in the field of competitive and non-competitive kainate receptor antagonists and their potential therapeutic applications. Due to the high level of structural divergence among the compounds described here, we decided to divide them into seven groups according to their overall structure, presenting a total of 72 active compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ewa Szymańska
- Department of Technology and Biotechnology of Drugs, Jagiellonian University Medical College in Kraków, PL 30-688 Kraków, Poland
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Akamatsu M, Yamashita T, Teramoto S, Huang Z, Lynch J, Toda T, Niu L, Kwak S. Testing of the therapeutic efficacy and safety of AMPA receptor RNA aptamers in an ALS mouse model. Life Sci Alliance 2022; 5:5/4/e202101193. [PMID: 35022247 PMCID: PMC8761490 DOI: 10.26508/lsa.202101193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
In motor neurons of sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients, the RNA editing at the glutamine/arginine site of the GluA2 subunit of α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazole propionic acid (AMPA) receptors is defective or incomplete. As a result, AMPA receptors containing the abnormally expressed, unedited isoform of GluA2 are highly Ca2+-permeable, and are responsible for mediating abnormal Ca2+ influx, thereby triggering motor neuron degeneration and cell death. Thus, blocking the AMPA receptor-mediated, abnormal Ca2+ influx is a potential therapeutic strategy for treatment of sporadic ALS. Here, we report a study of the efficacy and safety of two RNA aptamers targeting AMPA receptors on the ALS phenotype of AR2 mice. A 12-wk continuous, intracerebroventricular infusion of aptamers to AR2 mice reduced the progression of motor dysfunction, normalized TDP-43 mislocalization, and prevented death of motor neurons. Our results demonstrate that the use of AMPA receptor aptamers as a novel class of AMPA receptor antagonists is a promising strategy for developing an ALS treatment approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megumi Akamatsu
- Department of Neurology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takenari Yamashita
- Department of Neurology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Sayaka Teramoto
- Department of Neurology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Neurology, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Zhen Huang
- Department of Chemistry, University of Albany, State University of New York, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Janet Lynch
- Department of Chemistry, University of Albany, State University of New York, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Tatsushi Toda
- Department of Neurology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Li Niu
- Department of Chemistry, University of Albany, State University of New York, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Shin Kwak
- Department of Neurology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan .,Department of Neurology, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
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Huang Z, Niu L. RNA aptamers for AMPA receptors. Neuropharmacology 2021; 199:108761. [PMID: 34509496 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2021.108761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Revised: 08/07/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
RNA aptamers are single-stranded RNA molecules, and they are selected against a target of interest so that they can bind to and modulate the activity of the target, such as inhibiting the target activity, with high potency and selectivity. Antagonists, such as RNA aptamers, acting on AMPA receptors, a major subtype of ionotropic glutamate receptors, are potential drug candidates for treatment of a number of CNS diseases that involve excessive receptor activation and/or elevated receptor expression. Here we review the approach to discover RNA aptamers targeting AMPA receptors from a random sequence library (∼1014 sequences) through a process called systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment (SELEX). As compared with small-molecule compounds, RNA aptamers are a new class of regulatory agents with interesting and desirable pharmacological properties. Some AMPA receptor aptamers we have developed are presented in this review. The promises and challenges of translating RNA aptamers into potential drugs and treatment options are also discussed. This article is part of the special Issue on 'Glutamate Receptors - AMPA receptors'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen Huang
- Chemistry Department, Center for Neuroscience Research, University at Albany, State University of New York (SUNY), Albany, NY, USA
| | - Li Niu
- Chemistry Department, Center for Neuroscience Research, University at Albany, State University of New York (SUNY), Albany, NY, USA.
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Zamay TN, Zamay GS, Shnayder NA, Dmitrenko DV, Zamay SS, Yushchenko V, Kolovskaya OS, Susevski V, Berezovski MV, Kichkailo AS. Nucleic Acid Aptamers for Molecular Therapy of Epilepsy and Blood-Brain Barrier Damages. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2019; 19:157-167. [PMID: 31837605 PMCID: PMC6920299 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2019.10.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2019] [Revised: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Epilepsy is the fourth most prevalent brain disorder affecting millions of people of all ages. Epilepsy is divided into six categories different in etiology and molecular mechanisms; however, their common denominator is the inability to maintain ionic homeostasis. Antiepileptic drugs have a broad spectrum of action and high toxicity to the whole organism. In many cases, they could not penetrate the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and reach corresponding targets. Nucleic acid aptamers are a new and promising class of antiepileptic drugs as they are non-toxic, specific, and able to regulate the permeability of ion channels or inhibit inflammatory proteins. In this review, we summarize the mechanisms of epileptogenesis and its interconnection with the BBB and show the potential of aptamers for antiepileptic treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatiana N Zamay
- V.F. Voyno-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, Krasnoyarsk, Russia
| | - Galina S Zamay
- V.F. Voyno-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, Krasnoyarsk, Russia; Federal Research Center, Krasnoyarsk Research Center Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Science, Krasnoyarsk, Russia
| | - Natalia A Shnayder
- V.M. Bekhterev National Medical Research Center of Psychiatry and Neurology, Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Diana V Dmitrenko
- V.F. Voyno-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, Krasnoyarsk, Russia
| | - Sergey S Zamay
- Federal Research Center, Krasnoyarsk Research Center Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Science, Krasnoyarsk, Russia
| | - Victoria Yushchenko
- V.F. Voyno-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, Krasnoyarsk, Russia
| | - Olga S Kolovskaya
- V.F. Voyno-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, Krasnoyarsk, Russia; Federal Research Center, Krasnoyarsk Research Center Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Science, Krasnoyarsk, Russia
| | - Vanessa Susevski
- Department of Chemistry and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Maxim V Berezovski
- Department of Chemistry and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada.
| | - Anna S Kichkailo
- V.F. Voyno-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, Krasnoyarsk, Russia; Federal Research Center, Krasnoyarsk Research Center Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Science, Krasnoyarsk, Russia.
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Developing RNA aptamers for potential treatment of neurological diseases. Future Med Chem 2019; 11:551-565. [PMID: 30912676 DOI: 10.4155/fmc-2018-0364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
AMPA receptor antagonists are drug candidates for potential treatment of a number of CNS diseases that involve excessive receptor activation. To date, small-molecule compounds are the dominating drug candidates in the field. However, lower potency, cross activity and poor water solubility are generally associated with these compounds. Here we show the potential of RNA-based antagonists or RNA aptamers as drug candidates and some strategies to discover these aptamers from a random sequence library (∼1014 sequences). As an alternative to small molecule compounds, our aptamers exhibit higher potency and selectivity toward AMPA receptors. Because aptamers are RNA molecules, they are naturally water soluble. We also discuss the major challenges of translating RNA aptamers as lead molecules into drugs/treatment options.
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Flamme M, McKenzie LK, Sarac I, Hollenstein M. Chemical methods for the modification of RNA. Methods 2019; 161:64-82. [PMID: 30905751 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymeth.2019.03.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2018] [Revised: 03/18/2019] [Accepted: 03/19/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
RNA is often considered as being the vector for the transmission of genetic information from DNA to the protein synthesis machinery. However, besides translation RNA participates in a broad variety of fundamental biological roles such as gene expression and regulation, protein synthesis, and even catalysis of chemical reactions. This variety of function combined with intricate three-dimensional structures and the discovery of over 100 chemical modifications in natural RNAs require chemical methods for the modification of RNAs in order to investigate their mechanism, location, and exact biological roles. In addition, numerous RNA-based tools such as ribozymes, aptamers, or therapeutic oligonucleotides require the presence of additional chemical functionalities to strengthen the nucleosidic backbone against degradation or enhance the desired catalytic or binding properties. Herein, the two main methods for the chemical modification of RNA are presented: solid-phase synthesis using phosphoramidite precursors and the enzymatic polymerization of nucleoside triphosphates. The different synthetic and biochemical steps required for each method are carefully described and recent examples of practical applications based on these two methods are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Flamme
- Institut Pasteur, Department of Structural Biology and Chemistry, Laboratory for Bioorganic Chemistry of Nucleic Acids, CNRS UMR3523, 28, rue du Docteur Roux, 75724 Paris Cedex 15, France; Sorbonne Université, Collège doctoral, F-75005 Paris, France
| | - Luke K McKenzie
- Institut Pasteur, Department of Structural Biology and Chemistry, Laboratory for Bioorganic Chemistry of Nucleic Acids, CNRS UMR3523, 28, rue du Docteur Roux, 75724 Paris Cedex 15, France
| | - Ivo Sarac
- Institut Pasteur, Department of Structural Biology and Chemistry, Laboratory for Bioorganic Chemistry of Nucleic Acids, CNRS UMR3523, 28, rue du Docteur Roux, 75724 Paris Cedex 15, France
| | - Marcel Hollenstein
- Institut Pasteur, Department of Structural Biology and Chemistry, Laboratory for Bioorganic Chemistry of Nucleic Acids, CNRS UMR3523, 28, rue du Docteur Roux, 75724 Paris Cedex 15, France.
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Rahimi F. Aptamers Selected for Recognizing Amyloid β-Protein-A Case for Cautious Optimism. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19030668. [PMID: 29495486 PMCID: PMC5877529 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19030668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2018] [Revised: 02/18/2018] [Accepted: 02/22/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Aptamers are versatile oligonucleotide ligands used for molecular recognition of diverse targets. However, application of aptamers to the field of amyloid β-protein (Aβ) has been limited so far. Aβ is an intrinsically disordered protein that exists in a dynamic conformational equilibrium, presenting time-dependent ensembles of short-lived, metastable structures and assemblies that have been generally difficult to isolate and characterize. Moreover, despite understanding of potential physiological roles of Aβ, this peptide has been linked to the pathogenesis of Alzheimer disease, and its pathogenic roles remain controversial. Accumulated scientific evidence thus far highlights undesirable or nonspecific interactions between selected aptamers and different Aβ assemblies likely due to the metastable nature of Aβ or inherent affinity of RNA oligonucleotides to β-sheet-rich fibrillar structures of amyloidogenic proteins. Accordingly, lessons drawn from Aβ–aptamer studies emphasize that purity and uniformity of the protein target and rigorous characterization of aptamers’ specificity are important for realizing and garnering the full potential of aptamers selected for recognizing Aβ or other intrinsically disordered proteins. This review summarizes studies of aptamers selected for recognizing different Aβ assemblies and highlights controversies, difficulties, and limitations of such studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farid Rahimi
- Division of Biomedical Science and Biochemistry, Research School of Biology, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia.
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