1
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Tian Z, Liang G, Cui K, Liang Y, Wang Q, Lv S, Cheng X, Zhang L. Insight Into the Prospects for RNAi Therapy of Cancer. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:644718. [PMID: 33796026 PMCID: PMC8007863 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.644718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi), also known as gene silencing, is a biological process that prevents gene expression in certain diseases such as cancer. It can be used to improve the accuracy, efficiency, and stability of treatments, particularly genetic therapies. However, challenges such as delivery of oligonucleotide drug to less accessible parts of the body and the high incidence of toxic side effects are encountered. It is therefore imperative to improve their delivery to target sites and reduce their harmful effects on noncancerous cells to harness their full potential. In this study, the role of RNAi in the treatment of COVID-19, the novel coronavirus disease plaguing many countries, has been discussed. This review aims to ascertain the mechanism and application of RNAi and explore the current challenges of RNAi therapy by identifying some of the cancer delivery systems and providing drug information for their improvement. It is worth mentioning that delivery systems such as lipid-based delivery systems and exosomes have revolutionized RNAi therapy by reducing their immunogenicity and improving their cellular affinity. A deeper understanding of the mechanism and challenges associated with RNAi in cancer therapy can provide new insights into RNAi drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhili Tian
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Henan University, Kaifeng, China.,School of Clinical Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Guohui Liang
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Henan University, Kaifeng, China.,School of Clinical Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Kunli Cui
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Yayu Liang
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Henan University, Kaifeng, China.,School of Stomatology, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Qun Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Shuangyu Lv
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Xiaoxia Cheng
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
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2
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Amiri A, Barreto G, Sathyapalan T, Sahebkar A. siRNA Therapeutics: Future Promise for Neurodegenerative Diseases. Curr Neuropharmacol 2021; 19:1896-1911. [PMID: 33797386 PMCID: PMC9185778 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x19666210402104054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases (ND), as a group of central nervous system (CNS) disorders, are among the most prominent medical problems of the 21st century. They are often associated with considerable disability, motor dysfunction and dementia and are more common in the aged population. ND imposes a psychologic, economic and social burden on the patients and their families. Currently, there is no effective treatment for ND. Since many ND result from the gain of function of a mutant allele, small interference RNA (siRNA) can be a potential therapeutic agent for ND management. Based on the RNA interference (RNAi) approach, siRNA is a powerful tool for modulating gene expression through gene silencing. However, there are some obstacles in the clinical application of siRNA, including unfavorable immune response, off-target effects, instability of naked siRNA, nuclease susceptibility and a need to develop a suitable delivery system. Since there are some issues related to siRNA delivery routes, in this review, we focus on the application of siRNA in the management of ND treatment from 2000 to 2020.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Address correspondence to this author at the Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Tel: 985118002288; Fax: 985118002287; E-mails: ;
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3
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Gonzalez-Alegre P. Recent advances in molecular therapies for neurological disease: triplet repeat disorders. Hum Mol Genet 2020; 28:R80-R87. [PMID: 31227833 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddz138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2019] [Revised: 04/03/2019] [Accepted: 06/11/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Triplet repeat diseases (TRDs) are caused by pathogenic expansions of trinucleotide sequence repeats within coding and non-coding regions of different genes. They are typically progressive, very disabling and frequently involve the nervous system. Currently available symptomatic therapies provide modest benefit at best. The development of interventions that interfere with the natural history of these diseases is a priority. A common pathogenic process shared by most TRDs is the presence of toxicity from the messenger RNA or protein encoded by the gene harboring the abnormal expansion. Strategies to interfere with the expression of these genes using different molecular approaches are being pursued and have reached the clinical stage. This review will summarize the significant progress made in this field in the last few years, focusing on three main areas: the discovery of biomarkers of disease progression and target engagement, advances in preclinical studies for the polyglutamine ataxias and the initial clinical application in myotonic dystrophy type 1 and Huntington's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Gonzalez-Alegre
- Department of Neurology, the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.,Raymond G. Perelman Center for Cellular and Molecular Therapy, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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4
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Bardakjian T, Gonzalez-Alegre P. Towards precision medicine. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2018; 147:93-102. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-444-63233-3.00008-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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5
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Zhao Y, Wang W, Guo S, Wang Y, Miao L, Xiong Y, Huang L. PolyMetformin combines carrier and anticancer activities for in vivo siRNA delivery. Nat Commun 2016; 7:11822. [PMID: 27264609 PMCID: PMC4897747 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms11822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2016] [Accepted: 05/04/2016] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Metformin, a widely implemented anti-diabetic drug, exhibits potent anticancer efficacies. Herein a polymeric construction of Metformin, PolyMetformin (PolyMet) is successfully synthesized through conjugation of linear polyethylenimine (PEI) with dicyandiamide. The delocalization of cationic charges in the biguanide groups of PolyMet reduces the toxicity of PEI both in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, the polycationic properties of PolyMet permits capture of siRNA into a core-membrane structured lipid-polycation-hyaluronic acid (LPH) nanoparticle for systemic gene delivery. Advances herein permit LPH-PolyMet nanoparticles to facilitate VEGF siRNA delivery for VEGF knockdown in a human lung cancer xenograft, leading to enhanced tumour suppressive efficacy. Even in the absence of RNAi, LPH-PolyMet nanoparticles act similarly to Metformin and induce antitumour efficacy through activation of the AMPK and inhibition of the mTOR. In essence, PolyMet successfully combines the intrinsic anticancer efficacy of Metformin with the capacity to carry siRNA to enhance the therapeutic activity of an anticancer gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Zhao
- Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA
| | - Wei Wang
- Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Pharmaceutics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Shutao Guo
- Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA
| | - Yuhua Wang
- Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA
| | - Lei Miao
- Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA
| | - Yang Xiong
- Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, Zhejiang, China
| | - Leaf Huang
- Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA
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6
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Surface-mediated delivery of siRNA from fibrin hydrogels for knockdown of the BMP-2 binding antagonist noggin. Acta Biomater 2015; 25:109-20. [PMID: 26234488 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2015.07.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2015] [Revised: 06/28/2015] [Accepted: 07/29/2015] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Antagonists and inhibitory molecules responsible for maintaining tissue homeostasis can present a significant barrier to healing when tissue engineering/regenerative medicine strategies are employed. One example of this situation is the up-regulation of antagonists such as noggin in response to increasing concentrations of bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2) present from endogenous bone repair processes or delivered exogenously from biomaterials (synthetic bone grafts). While recombinant human (rh)BMP-2 delivered from synthetic bone grafts has been shown to be an effective alternative to autografts and allografts, the supraphysiological doses of rhBMP-2 have led to clinically-adverse side effects. The high rhBMP-2 dosage may be required, in part, to overcome the presence of antagonists such as noggin. Small interfering RNA (siRNA) is an appealing approach to overcome this problem because it can knock-down antagonists or inhibitory molecules in a temporary manner. Here, we conducted fundamental studies on the delivery of siRNA from material surfaces as a means to knock-down antagonists like noggin. Non-viral cationic lipid (Lipofectamine)-siRNA complexes were delivered from a fibrin hydrogel surface to MC3T3-E1 preosteoblasts that were treated with a supraphysiological dose of rhBMP-2 to achieve noggin mRNA expression levels higher than cells naïve to rhBMP-2. Confocal microscopy and flow cytometry showed intracellular uptake of siRNA in over 98% of MC3T3-E1 cells after 48 h. Doses of 0.5 and 1 μg noggin siRNA were able to significantly reduce noggin mRNA to levels equivalent to those in MC3T3-E1 cells not exposed to rhBMP-2 with no effects on cell viability. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE Small interfering RNA (siRNA) has been considered for treatment of diseases ranging from Alzheimer's to cancer. However, the ability to use siRNA in conjunction with biomaterials to direct tissue regeneration processes has received relatively little attention. Using the bone morphogenetic protein 2 antagonist, noggin, as a model, this research describes an approach to knock-down molecules that are inhibitory to desired regenerative pathways at the mRNA level via siRNA delivery from a hydrogel surface. Interactions between the material (fibrin) surface and polycation-siRNA complexes, release of the siRNA from the material surface, high levels of cellular uptake/internalization of siRNA, and significant knockdown of the targeting (noggin) mRNA are demonstrated. Broader future applications include those to nerve regeneration, cardiovascular tissue engineering, directing (stem) cell behavior, and mitigating inflammatory responses to materials.
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7
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Rytlewski JA, Beronja S. RNAi in the mouse: rapid and affordable gene function studies in a vertebrate system. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS-DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY 2014; 4:45-57. [DOI: 10.1002/wdev.164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2014] [Revised: 09/29/2014] [Accepted: 10/15/2014] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Julie A. Rytlewski
- Human Biology Division; Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center; Seattle WA USA
| | - Slobodan Beronja
- Human Biology Division; Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center; Seattle WA USA
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8
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Nóbrega C, Nascimento-Ferreira I, Onofre I, Albuquerque D, Déglon N, Pereira de Almeida L. RNA interference mitigates motor and neuropathological deficits in a cerebellar mouse model of Machado-Joseph disease. PLoS One 2014; 9:e100086. [PMID: 25144231 PMCID: PMC4140724 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0100086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2013] [Accepted: 05/22/2014] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Machado-Joseph disease or Spinocerebellar ataxia type 3 is a progressive fatal neurodegenerative disorder caused by the polyglutamine-expanded protein ataxin-3. Recent studies demonstrate that RNA interference is a promising approach for the treatment of Machado-Joseph disease. However, whether gene silencing at an early time-point is able to prevent the appearance of motor behavior deficits typical of the disease when initiated before onset of the disease had not been explored. Here, using a lentiviral-mediated allele-specific silencing of mutant ataxin-3 in an early pre-symptomatic cerebellar mouse model of Machado-Joseph disease we show that this strategy hampers the development of the motor and neuropathological phenotypic characteristics of the disease. At the histological level, the RNA-specific silencing of mutant ataxin-3 decreased formation of mutant ataxin-3 aggregates, preserved Purkinje cell morphology and expression of neuronal markers while reducing cell death. Importantly, gene silencing prevented the development of impairments in balance, motor coordination, gait and hyperactivity observed in control mice. These data support the therapeutic potential of RNA interference for Machado-Joseph disease and constitute a proof of principle of the beneficial effects of early allele-specific silencing for therapy of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clévio Nóbrega
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience & Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Isabel Nascimento-Ferreira
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience & Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Isabel Onofre
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience & Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - David Albuquerque
- Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Nicole Déglon
- Lausanne University Hospital, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Neurotherapies, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Luís Pereira de Almeida
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience & Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- * E-mail:
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9
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Chen S, Ge X, Chen Y, Lv N, Liu Z, Yuan W. Advances with RNA interference in Alzheimer's disease research. DRUG DESIGN DEVELOPMENT AND THERAPY 2013; 7:117-25. [PMID: 23459401 PMCID: PMC3582316 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s40229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized clinically by memory and cognitive dysfunction. Unfortunately, there is no effective therapeutic method for AD treatment or ways to halt disease progression. Many mechanisms are involved in the disease, including genes mutation and protein dysfunction. RNA interference (RNAi) technology may potentially be able to control AD. It can inhibit the protein expression of specific genes by activating a sequence-specific RNA degradation process. This is a powerful tool with which to study gene function, investigate the mechanism of the disease, and validate drug targets. In this review, we highlight the advances in RNAi technology in the investigation and treatment of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shun Chen
- Department of Neurology, Xinhua Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai
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10
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Song J, Lee M, Kim D, Han J, Chun CH, Jin EJ. MicroRNA-181b regulates articular chondrocytes differentiation and cartilage integrity. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2013; 431:210-4. [PMID: 23313477 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2012.12.133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2012] [Accepted: 12/28/2012] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNAs are endogenous gene regulators that have been implicated in various developmental and pathological processes. However, the precise identities and functions of the miRNAs involved in cartilage development are not yet well understood. Here, we report that miR-181b regulates chondrocyte differentiation and maintains cartilage integrity, and is thus a potent therapeutic target. MiR-181b was significantly down-regulated during chondrogenic differentiation of TGF-β3-stimulated limb mesenchymal cells, but it was significantly up-regulated in osteoarthritic chondrocytes isolated from the cartilage of osteoarthritis patients. The use of a mimic or an inhibitor to alter miR-181b levels in chondroblasts and articular chondrocytes showed that attenuation of miR-181b reduced MMP-13 expression while inducing type II collagen expression. Furthermore, over-expression of anti-miR-181b significantly reduced the cartilage destruction caused by DMM surgery in mice. In sum, our data suggest that miR-181b is a negative regulator of cartilage development, and that inhibition of miR-181b could be an effective therapeutic strategy for cartilage-related disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinsoo Song
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Wonkwang University, Iksan, Chunbuk 570-749, Republic of Korea
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11
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Abstract
Clinical neurology has benefitted greatly from recent remarkable advances in molecular genetics. In 1991, we could approximate a patient's risk for Huntington disease (HD) based only on linkage analysis. Now, 20 years later, not only can we identify the HD mutation with certainty, we can do the same with several hundred diseases. Whole genome or exome sequencing will soon allow for one-step interrogation of multiple genes for an even larger range of diseases. The recognition of these genes and their associated proteins in combination with new technology has led to creative new approaches to treatment. The challenge for the practicing neurologist is to provide clinically relevant and accurate interpretation of the genetic test results, with successfully treating once "incurable" neurogenetic diseases our ultimate goal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suman Jayadev
- Departments of Neurology (SJ, COS, TDB) and Medicine (COS, TDB), University of Washington, Seattle; and Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center (TDB), VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, Washington
| | - Corrine O Smith
- Departments of Neurology (SJ, COS, TDB) and Medicine (COS, TDB), University of Washington, Seattle; and Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center (TDB), VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, Washington
| | - Thomas D Bird
- Departments of Neurology (SJ, COS, TDB) and Medicine (COS, TDB), University of Washington, Seattle; and Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center (TDB), VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, Washington
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12
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Seyhan AA. RNAi: a potential new class of therapeutic for human genetic disease. Hum Genet 2011; 130:583-605. [PMID: 21537948 DOI: 10.1007/s00439-011-0995-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2011] [Accepted: 04/17/2011] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Dominant negative genetic disorders, in which a mutant allele of a gene causes disease in the presence of a second, normal copy, have been challenging since there is no cure and treatments are only to alleviate the symptoms. Current therapies involving pharmacological and biological drugs are not suitable to target mutant genes selectively due to structural indifference of the normal variant of their targets from the disease-causing mutant ones. In instances when the target contains single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), whether it is an enzyme or structural or receptor protein are not ideal for treatment using conventional drugs due to their lack of selectivity. Therefore, there is a need to develop new approaches to accelerate targeting these previously inaccessible targets by classical therapeutics. Although there is a cooling trend by the pharmaceutical industry for the potential of RNA interference (RNAi), RNAi and other RNA targeting drugs (antisense, ribozyme, etc.) still hold their promise as the only drugs that provide an opportunity to target genes with SNP mutations found in dominant negative disorders, genes specific to pathogenic tumor cells, and genes that are critical for mediating the pathology of various other diseases. Because of its exquisite specificity and potency, RNAi has attracted a considerable interest as a new class of therapeutic for genetic diseases including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Huntington's disease (HD), Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), spinocerebellar ataxia, dominant muscular dystrophies, and cancer. In this review, progress and challenges in developing RNAi therapeutics for genetic diseases will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Attila A Seyhan
- Pfizer Inc., Translational Immunology, Inflammation and Immunology, 200 Cambridgepark Drive, Cambridge, MA 02140, USA.
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13
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Martin JN, Wolken N, Brown T, Dauer WT, Ehrlich ME, Gonzalez-Alegre P. Lethal toxicity caused by expression of shRNA in the mouse striatum: implications for therapeutic design. Gene Ther 2011; 18:666-73. [PMID: 21368900 PMCID: PMC3131434 DOI: 10.1038/gt.2011.10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Therapeutic RNA interference has emerged as a promising approach for the treatment of many incurable diseases, including cancer, infectious disease or neurodegenerative disorders. Demonstration of efficacy and safety in animal models is necessary before planning human application. Our group and others have previously shown the potential of this approach for the dominantly-inherited neurological disease DYT1 dystonia by achieving potent shRNA-mediated silencing of the disease protein, torsinA, in cultured cells. To establish the feasibility of this approach in vivo, we pursued viral delivery of shRNA in two different mouse models. Surprisingly, intrastriatal injections of AAV2/1 vectors expressing different shRNAs, whether targeting torsinA expression or mismatched controls, resulted in significant toxicity with progressive weight loss, motor dysfunction and animal demise. Histological analysis showed shRNA-induced neurodegeneration. Toxicity was not observed in animals that received control AAV2/1 encoding no shRNA, and was independent of genotype, occurring in both DYT1 and wild type animals. Interestingly, the different genetic background of both mouse models influenced toxicity, being earlier and more severe in 129/SvEv than C57BL/6 mice. In conclusion, our studies demonstrate that expression of shRNA in the mammalian brain can lead to lethal toxicity. Furthermore, the genetic background of rodents modifies their sensitivity to this form of toxicity, a factor that should be taken into consideration in the design of preclinical therapeutic RNAi trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- J N Martin
- Graduate Program in Genetics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
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14
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Hu J, Gagnon KT, Liu J, Watts JK, Syeda-Nawaz J, Bennett CF, Swayze EE, Randolph J, Chattopadhyaya J, Corey DR. Allele-selective inhibition of ataxin-3 (ATX3) expression by antisense oligomers and duplex RNAs. Biol Chem 2011; 392:315-25. [PMID: 21294677 DOI: 10.1515/bc.2011.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Spinocerebellar ataxia-3 (also known as Machado-Joseph disease) is an incurable neurodegenerative disorder caused by expression of a mutant variant of ataxin-3 (ATX3) protein. Inhibiting expression of ATX3 would provide a therapeutic strategy, but indiscriminant inhibition of both wild-type and mutant ATX3 might lead to undesirable side effects. An ideal silencing agent would block expression of mutant ATX3 while leaving expression of wild-type ATX3 intact. We have previously observed that peptide nucleic acid (PNA) conjugates targeting the expanded CAG repeat within ATX3 mRNA block expression of both alleles. We have now identified additional PNAs capable of inhibiting ATX3 expression that vary in length and in the nature of the conjugated cation chain. We can also achieve potent and selective inhibition using duplex RNAs containing one or more mismatches relative to the CAG repeat. Anti-CAG antisense bridged nucleic acid oligonucleotides that lack a cationic domain are potent inhibitors but are not allele-selective. Allele-selective inhibitors of ATX3 expression provide insights into the mechanism of selectivity and promising lead compounds for further development and in vivo investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaxin Hu
- Departments of Pharmacology and Biochemistry, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390-9041, USA
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15
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Abstract
The spinocerebellar ataxias (SCA) are a large group of inherited disorders affecting the cerebellum and its afferent and efferent pathways. Their hallmark symptom is slowly progressive, symmetrical, midline, and appendicular ataxia. Some may also have associated hyperkinetic movements (chorea, dystonia, myoclonus, postural/action tremor, restless legs, rubral tremor, tics), which may aid in differential diagnosis and provide treatable targets to improve performance and quality of life in these progressive, incurable conditions. The typical dominant ataxias with associated hyperkinetic movements are SCA1-3, 6-8, 12, 14, 15, 17, 19-21, and 27. The common recessive ataxias with associated hyperkinetic movements are ataxia telangiectasia and Friedreich's ataxia. Fragile X tremor-ataxia syndrome (FXTAS) and multiple-system atrophy (a sporadic ataxia which is felt to have a genetic substrate) also have hyperkinetic features. A careful work-up should be done in all apparently sporadic cases, to rule out acquired causes of ataxia, some of which can cause hyperkinetic movements in addition to ataxia. Some testing should be done even in individuals with a confirmed genetic cause, as the presence of a secondary factor (nutritional deficiency, thyroid dysfunction) can contribute to the phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan L Perlman
- David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
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16
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Abstract
Since its discovery a decade ago, RNA interference (RNAi) has been developed not only into powerful experimental tools but also into promising novel therapeutics. In contrast to conventional antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) that target specific proteins such as ion channels or receptors, RNAi-based therapeutics exploit an endogenous regulatory mechanism of gene expression and thereby are poised to prevent or reverse pathogenetic mechanisms involved in seizure development. Therapeutic RNAi has been widely explored for dominant targets involved in neurodegenerative diseases; however, their use for epilepsy therapy has received less attention. This review discusses potential RNAi-based targets that are of interest for epilepsy therapy, including adenosine kinase (ADK), the key negative regulator of the brain's endogenous anticonvulsant adenosine. Overexpression of ADK, and the resulting adenosine deficiency, are pathologic hallmarks of the sclerotic epileptic brain, and have been implicated in seizure generation. Therefore, RNAi-strategies aimed at reducing ADK (and increasing adenosine) are based on a direct neurochemical rationale that has recently been explored experimentally using ex vivo and in vivo gene therapy approaches. Technical issues and challenges remain before those promising tools can be developed into future therapeutics for epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Detlev Boison
- Robert Stone Dow Neurobiology Laboratories, Legacy Research, Portland, Oregon 97232, USA.
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17
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McCormack AL, Mak SK, Henderson JM, Bumcrot D, Farrer MJ, Di Monte DA. Alpha-synuclein suppression by targeted small interfering RNA in the primate substantia nigra. PLoS One 2010; 5:e12122. [PMID: 20711464 PMCID: PMC2920329 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0012122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2010] [Accepted: 07/19/2010] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The protein α-synuclein is involved in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease and other neurodegenerative disorders. Its toxic potential appears to be enhanced by increased protein expression, providing a compelling rationale for therapeutic strategies aimed at reducing neuronal α-synuclein burden. Here, feasibility and safety of α-synuclein suppression were evaluated by treating monkeys with small interfering RNA (siRNA) directed against α-synuclein. The siRNA molecule was chemically modified to prevent degradation by exo- and endonucleases and directly infused into the left substantia nigra. Results compared levels of α-synuclein mRNA and protein in the infused (left) vs. untreated (right) hemisphere and revealed a significant 40–50% suppression of α-synuclein expression. These findings could not be attributable to non-specific effects of siRNA infusion since treatment of a separate set of animals with luciferase-targeting siRNA produced no changes in α-synuclein. Infusion with α-synuclein siRNA, while lowering α-synuclein expression, had no overt adverse consequences. In particular, it did not cause tissue inflammation and did not change (i) the number and phenotype of nigral dopaminergic neurons, and (ii) the concentrations of striatal dopamine and its metabolites. The data represent the first evidence of successful anti-α-synuclein intervention in the primate substantia nigra and support further development of RNA interference-based therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison L. McCormack
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Bonn, Germany
- SRI International, Menlo Park, California, United States of America
| | - Sally K. Mak
- The Parkinson's Institute, Sunnyvale, California, United States of America
| | | | - David Bumcrot
- Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Matthew J. Farrer
- Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Jacksonville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Donato A. Di Monte
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Bonn, Germany
- SRI International, Menlo Park, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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18
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Kleinhammer A, Deussing J, Wurst W, Kühn R. Conditional RNAi in mice. Methods 2010; 53:142-50. [PMID: 20705138 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymeth.2010.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2010] [Revised: 08/06/2010] [Accepted: 08/06/2010] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi)-mediated gene knockdown has developed into a routine method to assess gene function in cultured mammalian cells in a fast and easy manner. For the use of RNAi in mice, short hairpin (sh) RNAs expressed stably from the genome are a fast alternative to conventional knockout approaches. We developed a strategy for complete or conditional gene knockdown in mice, where the Cre/loxP system is used to activate RNAi in a time and tissue dependent manner. Alternatively doxycycline controlled shRNA expression vectors can be used for conditional gene silencing. Single copy RNAi constructs are placed into the Rosa26 locus of ES cells by recombinase mediated cassette exchange and transmitted through the germline of chimeric mice. The shRNA transgenic offspring can be either directly used for phenotypic analysis or are further crossed to a Cre transgenic strain to activate conditional shRNA vectors. The site specific insertion of single copy shRNA vectors allows the expedite and reproducible production of knockdown mice and provides an easy and fast approach to assess gene function in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aljoscha Kleinhammer
- Institute for Developmental Genetics, Helmholtz Center Munich - German Research Center for Environmental Health, Ingolstädter Landstr. 1, 85764 Neuherberg/Munich, Germany.
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19
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Kim ID, Lim CM, Kim JB, Nam HY, Nam K, Kim SW, Park JS, Lee JK. Neuroprotection by biodegradable PAMAM ester (e-PAM-R)-mediated HMGB1 siRNA delivery in primary cortical cultures and in the postischemic brain. J Control Release 2010; 142:422-30. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2009.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2009] [Revised: 11/11/2009] [Accepted: 11/13/2009] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
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20
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Discussion. TGF-beta1 RNA interference in mouse primary dura cell culture: downstream effects on TGF receptors, FGF-2, and FGF-R1 mRNA levels. Plast Reconstr Surg 2010; 124:1474-1476. [PMID: 20009833 DOI: 10.1097/prs.0b013e3181b989de] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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21
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Therapeutic gene silencing strategies for polyglutamine disorders. Trends Genet 2010; 26:29-38. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tig.2009.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2009] [Revised: 11/05/2009] [Accepted: 11/05/2009] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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22
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Abstract
Slowly progressive ataxia accompanied by cerebellar degeneration is often genetic in origin. The past 15 years have witnessed a revolution in our understanding of the causes of dominantly inherited ataxias, now known as the spinocerebellar ataxias (SCAs). Nearly 30 distinct genetic causes of SCA are known, numbered chronologically in order of discovery. All SCAs display classic cerebellar signs, and many display disabling noncerebellar features, most commonly brainstem dysfunction. Eye movement abnormalities are common, reflecting cerebellar and brainstem degeneration. Visual loss from retinal degeneration is rare in SCA, occurring most commonly and profoundly in SCA7. Although the SCAs are relentlessly progressive and currently untreatable, recent scientific advances have begun to shed light on various disease mechanisms that may lead to preventive therapies.
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23
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MicroRNAs: novel therapeutic targets in neurodegenerative diseases. Drug Discov Today 2009; 14:1123-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2009.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2009] [Revised: 09/11/2009] [Accepted: 09/15/2009] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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25
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Sathyanarayana Rao TS, Jagannatha Rao K. New drug discovery for Alzheimer's disease: Challenges and hopes. Indian J Psychiatry 2009; 51:79-81. [PMID: 19823623 PMCID: PMC2755172 DOI: 10.4103/0019-5545.49444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- T S Sathyanarayana Rao
- Department of Psychiatry, JSS University, JSS Medical College Hospital, Ramanuja Road, Mysore - 570 004, India
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26
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The potential of intracellular antibodies for therapeutic targeting of protein-misfolding diseases. Trends Mol Med 2008; 14:373-80. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2008.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2008] [Revised: 07/04/2008] [Accepted: 07/04/2008] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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27
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Wang H, Ghosh A, Baigude H, Yang CS, Qiu L, Xia X, Zhou H, Rana TM, Xu Z. Therapeutic gene silencing delivered by a chemically modified small interfering RNA against mutant SOD1 slows amyotrophic lateral sclerosis progression. J Biol Chem 2008; 283:15845-52. [PMID: 18367449 PMCID: PMC2414310 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m800834200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2008] [Revised: 03/17/2008] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Inherited neurodegenerative diseases, such as Huntington disease and subset of Alzheimer disease, Parkinson disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, are caused by the mutant genes that have gained undefined properties that harm cells in the nervous system, causing neurodegeneration and clinical phenotypes. Lowering the mutant gene expression is predicted to slow the disease progression and produce clinical benefit. Administration of small interfering RNA (siRNA) can silence specific genes. However, long term delivery of siRNA to silence the mutant genes, a requirement for treatment of these chronic central nervous system (CNS) diseases, remains a critical unsolved issue. Here we designed and tested a chemically stabilized siRNA against human Cu,Zn-superoxide dismutase (SOD1) in a mouse model for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. We show that the modified siRNA has enhanced stability and retains siRNA activity. Administration of this siRNA at the disease onset by long term infusion into the CNS resulted in widespread distribution of this siRNA, knocked down the mutant SOD1 expression, slowed the disease progression, and extended the survival. These results bring RNA interference therapy one step closer to its clinical application for treatment of chronic, devastating, and fatal CNS disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyan Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular
Pharmacology, Chemical Biology Program,
Cell Biology, and
Neuroscience Program, University of Massachusetts
Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts 01605
| | - Animesh Ghosh
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular
Pharmacology, Chemical Biology Program,
Cell Biology, and
Neuroscience Program, University of Massachusetts
Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts 01605
| | - Huricha Baigude
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular
Pharmacology, Chemical Biology Program,
Cell Biology, and
Neuroscience Program, University of Massachusetts
Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts 01605
| | - Chao-shun Yang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular
Pharmacology, Chemical Biology Program,
Cell Biology, and
Neuroscience Program, University of Massachusetts
Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts 01605
| | - Linghua Qiu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular
Pharmacology, Chemical Biology Program,
Cell Biology, and
Neuroscience Program, University of Massachusetts
Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts 01605
| | - Xugang Xia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular
Pharmacology, Chemical Biology Program,
Cell Biology, and
Neuroscience Program, University of Massachusetts
Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts 01605
| | - Hongxia Zhou
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular
Pharmacology, Chemical Biology Program,
Cell Biology, and
Neuroscience Program, University of Massachusetts
Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts 01605
| | - Tariq M. Rana
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular
Pharmacology, Chemical Biology Program,
Cell Biology, and
Neuroscience Program, University of Massachusetts
Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts 01605
| | - Zuoshang Xu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular
Pharmacology, Chemical Biology Program,
Cell Biology, and
Neuroscience Program, University of Massachusetts
Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts 01605
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28
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Delic S, Streif S, Deussing JM, Weber P, Ueffing M, Hölter SM, Wurst W, Kühn R. Genetic mouse models for behavioral analysis through transgenic RNAi technology. GENES BRAIN AND BEHAVIOR 2008; 7:821-30. [PMID: 18518923 DOI: 10.1111/j.1601-183x.2008.00412.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Pharmacological inhibitors and knockout mice have developed into routine tools to analyze the role of specific genes in behavior. Both strategies have limitations like the availability of inhibitors for only a subset of proteins and the large efforts required to construct specific mouse mutants. The recent emergence of RNA interference (RNAi)-mediated gene silencing provides a fast alternative that can be applied to any coding gene. We established an approach for the efficient generation of transgenic knockdown mice by targeted insertion of short hairpin (sh) RNA vectors into a defined genomic locus and studied the efficiency of gene silencing in the adult brain and the utility of such mice for behavioral analysis. We generated shRNA knockdown mice for the corticotropin-releasing hormone receptor type 1 (Crhr1), the leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (Lrkk2) and the purinergic receptor P2X ligand-gated ion channel 7 (P2rx7) genes and show the ubiquitous expression of shRNA and efficient suppression of the target mRNA and protein in the brain of young and 11-month-old knockdown mice. Knockdown mice for the Crhr1 gene exhibited decreased anxiety-related behavior, an impaired stress response, and thereby recapitulate the phenotype of CRHR1 knockout mice. Our results show the feasibility of gene silencing in the adult brain and validate knockdown mice as new genetic models suitable for behavioral analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Delic
- Institute of Developmental Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg/Munich, Germany
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