1
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Chiglintseva D, Clarke DJ, Sen'kova A, Heyman T, Miroshnichenko S, Shan F, Vlassov V, Zenkova M, Patutina O, Bichenkova E. Engineering supramolecular dynamics of self-assembly and turnover of oncogenic microRNAs to drive their synergistic destruction in tumor models. Biomaterials 2024; 309:122604. [PMID: 38733658 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2024.122604] [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: 12/10/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
Rationally-engineered functional biomaterials offer the opportunity to interface with complex biology in a predictive, precise, yet dynamic way to reprogram their behaviour and correct shortcomings. Success here may lead to a desired therapeutic effect against life-threatening diseases, such as cancer. Here, we engineered "Crab"-like artificial ribonucleases through coupling of peptide and nucleic acid building blocks, capable of operating alongside and synergistically with intracellular enzymes (RNase H and AGO2) for potent destruction of oncogenic microRNAs. "Crab"-like configuration of two catalytic peptides ("pincers") flanking the recognition oligonucleotide was instrumental here in providing increased catalytic turnover, leading to ≈30-fold decrease in miRNA half-life as compared with that for "single-pincer" conjugates. Dynamic modeling of miRNA cleavage illustrated how such design enabled "Crabs" to drive catalytic turnover through simultaneous attacks at different locations of the RNA-DNA heteroduplex, presumably by producing smaller cleavage products and by providing toeholds for competitive displacement by intact miRNA strands. miRNA cleavage at the 5'-site, spreading further into double-stranded region, likely provided a synergy for RNase H1 through demolition of its loading region, thus facilitating enzyme turnover. Such synergy was critical for sustaining persistent disposal of continually-emerging oncogenic miRNAs. A single exposure to the best structural variant (Crab-p-21) prior to transplantation into mice suppressed their malignant properties and reduced primary tumor volume (by 85 %) in MCF-7 murine xenograft models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daria Chiglintseva
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine SB RAS, 8 Lavrentiev Avenue, 630090, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - David J Clarke
- School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK
| | - Aleksandra Sen'kova
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine SB RAS, 8 Lavrentiev Avenue, 630090, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Thomas Heyman
- School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK
| | - Svetlana Miroshnichenko
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine SB RAS, 8 Lavrentiev Avenue, 630090, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Fangzhou Shan
- School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK
| | - Valentin Vlassov
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine SB RAS, 8 Lavrentiev Avenue, 630090, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Marina Zenkova
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine SB RAS, 8 Lavrentiev Avenue, 630090, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Olga Patutina
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine SB RAS, 8 Lavrentiev Avenue, 630090, Novosibirsk, Russia.
| | - Elena Bichenkova
- School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK.
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2
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Abou Madawi NA, Darwish ZE, Omar EM. Targeted gene therapy for cancer: the impact of microRNA multipotentiality. Med Oncol 2024; 41:214. [PMID: 39088082 PMCID: PMC11294399 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-024-02450-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
Cancer is a life-threatening disease and its management is difficult due to its complex nature. Cancer is characterized by genomic instability and tumor-associated inflammation of the supporting stoma. With the advances in omics science, a treatment strategy for cancer has emerged, which is based on targeting cancer-driving molecules, known as targeted therapy. Gene therapy, a form of targeted therapy, is the introduction of nucleic acids into living cells to replace a defective gene, promote or repress gene expression to treat a disease. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) that regulate gene expression and thus are involved in physiological processes like cell proliferation, differentiation, and cell death. miRNAs control the actions of many genes. They are deregulated in cancer and their abnormal expression influences genetic and epigenetic alterations inducing carcinogenesis. In this review, we will explain the role of miRNAs in normal and abnormal gene expression and their usefulness in monitoring cancer patients. Besides, we will discuss miRNA-based therapy as a method of gene therapy and its impact on the success of cancer management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nourhan A Abou Madawi
- Oral Pathology Department, Faculty of Dentistry, Alexandria University, Champollion Street, Azarita, 21521, Alexandria, Egypt.
| | - Zeinab E Darwish
- Oral Pathology Department, Faculty of Dentistry, Alexandria University, Champollion Street, Azarita, 21521, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Enas M Omar
- Oral Pathology Department, Faculty of Dentistry, Alexandria University, Champollion Street, Azarita, 21521, Alexandria, Egypt
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3
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Koralewska N, Corradi E, Milewski MC, Masante L, Szczepanska A, Kierzek R, Figlerowicz M, Baudet ML, Kurzynska-Kokorniak A. Short 2'-O-methyl/LNA oligomers as highly-selective inhibitors of miRNA production in vitro and in vivo. Nucleic Acids Res 2024; 52:5804-5824. [PMID: 38676942 PMCID: PMC11162791 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkae284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) that share identical or near-identical sequences constitute miRNA families and are predicted to act redundantly. Yet recent evidence suggests that members of the same miRNA family with high sequence similarity might have different roles and that this functional divergence might be rooted in their precursors' sequence. Current knock-down strategies such as antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) or miRNA sponges cannot distinguish between identical or near identical miRNAs originating from different precursors to allow exploring unique functions of these miRNAs. We here develop a novel strategy based on short 2'-OMe/LNA-modified oligonucleotides to selectively target specific precursor molecules and ablate the production of individual members of miRNA families in vitro and in vivo. Leveraging the highly conserved Xenopus miR-181a family as proof-of-concept, we demonstrate that 2'-OMe/LNA-ASOs targeting the apical region of pre-miRNAs achieve precursor-selective inhibition of mature miRNA-5p production. Furthermore, we extend the applicability of our approach to the human miR-16 family, illustrating its universality in targeting precursors generating identical miRNAs. Overall, our strategy enables efficient manipulation of miRNA expression, offering a powerful tool to dissect the functions of identical or highly similar miRNAs derived from different precursors within miRNA families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Koralewska
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology, Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Poznan 61-704, Poland
| | - Eloina Corradi
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology – CIBIO, University of Trento, Trento 38123, Italy
| | - Marek C Milewski
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology, Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Poznan 61-704, Poland
| | - Linda Masante
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology – CIBIO, University of Trento, Trento 38123, Italy
| | - Agnieszka Szczepanska
- Department of Ribonucleoprotein Biochemistry, Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Poznan 61-704, Poland
| | - Ryszard Kierzek
- Department of Structural Chemistry and Biology of Nucleic Acids, Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Poznan 61-704, Poland
| | - Marek Figlerowicz
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology, Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Poznan 61-704, Poland
| | - Marie-Laure Baudet
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology – CIBIO, University of Trento, Trento 38123, Italy
| | - Anna Kurzynska-Kokorniak
- Department of Ribonucleoprotein Biochemistry, Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Poznan 61-704, Poland
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4
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Ferguson CM, Godinho BMDC, Echeverria D, Hassler M, Vangjeli L, Sousa J, McHugh N, Alterman J, Hariharan V, Krishnamurthy P, Watts J, Rogaev E, Khvorova A. A combinatorial approach for achieving CNS-selective RNAi. Nucleic Acids Res 2024; 52:5273-5284. [PMID: 38348876 PMCID: PMC11109952 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkae100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 12/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024] Open
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi) is an endogenous process that can be harnessed using chemically modified small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) to potently modulate gene expression in many tissues. The route of administration and chemical architecture are the primary drivers of oligonucleotide tissue distribution, including siRNAs. Independently of the nature and type, oligonucleotides are eliminated from the body through clearance tissues, where their unintended accumulation may result in undesired gene modulation. Divalent siRNAs (di-siRNAs) administered into the CSF induce robust gene silencing throughout the central nervous system (CNS). Upon clearance from the CSF, they are mainly filtered by the kidneys and liver, with the most functionally significant accumulation occurring in the liver. siRNA- and miRNA-induced silencing can be blocked through substrate inhibition using single-stranded, stabilized oligonucleotides called antagomirs or anti-siRNAs. Using APOE as a model target, we show that undesired di-siRNA-induced silencing in the liver can be mitigated through administration of liver targeting GalNAc-conjugated anti-siRNAs, without impacting CNS activity. Blocking unwanted hepatic APOE silencing achieves fully CNS-selective silencing, essential for potential clinical translation. While we focus on CNS/liver selectivity, coadministration of differentially targeting siRNA and anti-siRNAs can be adapted as a strategy to achieve tissue selectivity in different organ combinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chantal M Ferguson
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Bruno M D C Godinho
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Dimas Echeverria
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Matthew Hassler
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Lorenc Vangjeli
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Jacquelyn Sousa
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Nicholas McHugh
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Julia Alterman
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Vignesh Hariharan
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | | | - Jonathan Watts
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Eveny Rogaev
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Anastasia Khvorova
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
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5
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La Sala L, Carlini V, Conte C, Macas-Granizo MB, Afzalpour E, Martin-Delgado J, D'Anzeo M, Pedretti RFE, Naselli A, Pontiroli AE, Cappato R. Metabolic disorders affecting the liver and heart: Therapeutic efficacy of miRNA-based therapies? Pharmacol Res 2024; 201:107083. [PMID: 38309383 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2024.107083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/05/2024]
Abstract
Liver and heart disease are major causes of death worldwide. It is known that metabolic alteration causing type 2 diabetes (T2D) and Nonalcoholic fatty liver (NAFLD) coupled with a derangement in lipid homeostasis, may exacerbate hepatic and cardiovascular diseases. Some pharmacological treatments can mitigate organ dysfunctions but the important side effects limit their efficacy leading often to deterioration of the tissues. It needs to develop new personalized treatment approaches and recent progresses of engineered RNA molecules are becoming increasingly viable as alternative treatments. This review outlines the current use of antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), RNA interference (RNAi) and RNA genome editing as treatment for rare metabolic disorders. However, the potential for small non-coding RNAs to serve as therapeutic agents for liver and heart diseases is yet to be fully explored. Although miRNAs are recognized as biomarkers for many diseases, they are also capable of serving as drugs for medical intervention; several clinical trials are testing miRNAs as therapeutics for type 2 diabetes, nonalcoholic fatty liver as well as cardiac diseases. Recent advances in RNA-based therapeutics may potentially facilitate a novel application of miRNAs as agents and as druggable targets. In this work, we sought to summarize the advancement and advantages of miRNA selective therapy when compared to conventional drugs. In particular, we sought to emphasise druggable miRNAs, over ASOs or other RNA therapeutics or conventional drugs. Finally, we sought to address research questions related to efficacy, side-effects, and range of use of RNA therapeutics. Additionally, we covered hurdles and examined recent advances in the use of miRNA-based RNA therapy in metabolic disorders such as diabetes, liver, and heart diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia La Sala
- IRCCS MultiMedica, 20138 Milan, Italy; Dept. of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
| | | | - Caterina Conte
- IRCCS MultiMedica, 20138 Milan, Italy; Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Roma Open University, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Elham Afzalpour
- Dept. of Biomedical Sciences and Clinic, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Jimmy Martin-Delgado
- Hospital Luis Vernaza, Junta de Beneficiencia de Guayaquil, 090603 Guayaquil, Ecuador; Instituto de Investigacion e Innovacion en Salud Integral, Universidad Catolica de Santiago de Guayaquil, Guayaquil 090603, Ecuador
| | - Marco D'Anzeo
- AUO delle Marche, SOD Medicina di Laboratorio, Ancona, Italy
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6
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Huang W, Paul D, Calin GA, Bayraktar R. miR-142: A Master Regulator in Hematological Malignancies and Therapeutic Opportunities. Cells 2023; 13:84. [PMID: 38201290 PMCID: PMC10778542 DOI: 10.3390/cells13010084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a type of non-coding RNA whose dysregulation is frequently associated with the onset and progression of human cancers. miR-142, an ultra-conserved miRNA with both active -3p and -5p mature strands and wide-ranging physiological targets, has been the subject of countless studies over the years. Due to its preferential expression in hematopoietic cells, miR-142 has been found to be associated with numerous types of lymphomas and leukemias. This review elucidates the multifaceted role of miR-142 in human physiology, its influence on hematopoiesis and hematopoietic cells, and its intriguing involvement in exosome-mediated miR-142 transport. Moreover, we offer a comprehensive exploration of the genetic and molecular landscape of the miR-142 genomic locus, highlighting its mutations and dysregulation within hematological malignancies. Finally, we discuss potential avenues for harnessing the therapeutic potential of miR-142 in the context of hematological malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wilson Huang
- Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (W.H.); (G.A.C.)
| | - Doru Paul
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA;
| | - George A. Calin
- Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (W.H.); (G.A.C.)
- Center for RNA Interference and Non-Coding RNAs, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Leukemia, Division of Cancer Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Recep Bayraktar
- Center for RNA Interference and Non-Coding RNAs, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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7
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Castaldo V, Minopoli M, Di Modugno F, Sacconi A, Liguoro D, Frigerio R, Ortolano A, Di Martile M, Gesualdi L, Madonna G, Capone M, Cirombella R, Catizone A, Del Bufalo D, Vecchione A, Carriero MV, Ascierto PA, Mancini R, Fattore L, Ciliberto G. Upregulated expression of miR-4443 and miR-4488 in drug resistant melanomas promotes migratory and invasive phenotypes through downregulation of intermediate filament nestin. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2023; 42:317. [PMID: 38008717 PMCID: PMC10680267 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-023-02878-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND BRAF-mutant melanoma patients benefit from the combinatorial treatments with BRAF and MEK inhibitors. However, acquired drug resistance strongly limits the efficacy of these targeted therapies in time. Recently, many findings have underscored the involvement of microRNAs as main drivers of drug resistance. In this context, we previously identified a subset of oncomiRs strongly up-regulated in drug-resistant melanomas. In this work, we shed light on the molecular role of two as yet poorly characterized oncomiRs, miR-4443 and miR-4488. METHODS Invasion and migration have been determined by wound healing, transwell migration/invasion assays and Real Time Cell Analysis (RTCA) technology. miR-4488 and miR-4443 have been measured by qRT-PCR. Nestin levels have been tested by western blot, confocal immunofluorescence, immunohistochemical and flow cytometry analyses. RESULTS We demonstrate that the two oncomiRs are responsible for the enhanced migratory and invasive phenotypes, that are a hallmark of drug resistant melanoma cells. Moreover, miR-4443 and miR-4488 promote an aberrant cytoskeletal reorganization witnessed by the increased number of stress fibers and cellular protrusions-like cancer cell invadopodia. Mechanistically, we identified the intermediate filament nestin as a molecular target of both oncomiRs. Finally, we have shown that nestin levels are able to predict response to treatments in melanoma patients. CONCLUSIONS Altogether these findings have profound translational implications in the attempt i) to develop miRNA-targeting therapies to mitigate the metastatic phenotypes of BRAF-mutant melanomas and ii) to identify novel biomarkers able to guide clinical decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vittorio Castaldo
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic- Medicine and Orthopedics, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Michele Minopoli
- Preclinical Models of Tumor Progression Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS 'Fondazione G. Pascale', 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesca Di Modugno
- Tumor Immunology and Immunotherapy Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Sacconi
- Clinical Trial Center, Biostatistics and Bioinformatics Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Domenico Liguoro
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Rachele Frigerio
- SAFU Laboratory, Department of Research, Advanced Diagnostics and Technological Innovation, Translational Research Area, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Arianna Ortolano
- SAFU Laboratory, Department of Research, Advanced Diagnostics and Technological Innovation, Translational Research Area, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Marta Di Martile
- Preclinical Models and New Therapeutic Agents Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Luisa Gesualdi
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic- Medicine and Orthopedics, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Gabriele Madonna
- Unit of Melanoma, Cancer Immunotherapy and Development Therapeutics, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS 'Fondazione G. Pascale', 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Mariaelena Capone
- Unit of Melanoma, Cancer Immunotherapy and Development Therapeutics, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS 'Fondazione G. Pascale', 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Roberto Cirombella
- Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Department Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, 00118, Rome, Italy
| | - Angiolina Catizone
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic- Medicine and Orthopedics, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Donatella Del Bufalo
- Preclinical Models and New Therapeutic Agents Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Vecchione
- Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Department Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, 00118, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Vincenza Carriero
- Preclinical Models of Tumor Progression Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS 'Fondazione G. Pascale', 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Paolo Antonio Ascierto
- Unit of Melanoma, Cancer Immunotherapy and Development Therapeutics, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS 'Fondazione G. Pascale', 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Rita Mancini
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
- Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Department Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, 00118, Rome, Italy
| | - Luigi Fattore
- SAFU Laboratory, Department of Research, Advanced Diagnostics and Technological Innovation, Translational Research Area, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy.
| | - Gennaro Ciliberto
- Scientific Directorate, IRCSS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
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8
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Zhu H, Kamiya Y, Asanuma H. Illuminating miRNA Inhibition: Visualizing the Interaction between Anti-miRNA Oligonucleotide and Target miRNA Using FRET. ACS Chem Biol 2023; 18:2281-2289. [PMID: 37789826 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.3c00353] [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: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
Anti-miRNA oligonucleotides (anti-miRs) effectively and specifically inhibit the function of individual miRNAs and have the potential to serve as a novel class of nucleic acid therapeutic. However, the details of the mechanisms of anti-miRs in cells have not yet been clarified sufficiently. In particular, the localization of the complexes of anti-miRs and target miRNA in cells remains unclear. We previously developed anti-miRs composed of serinol nucleic acid (SNA) that very effectively inhibited miRNA-mediated silencing activity. Here we describe an imaging system based on the fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) designed by miRNAs labeled with fluorophore-quencher pairs and an SNA-based anti-miR labeled with an acceptor dye. We discovered that the anti-miR hybridizes with the miRNA in the miRNA-induced silencing complex (miRISC), which is the active complex formed by miRNA and Ago2 in cells within P-bodies. Based on FRET ratio analysis, we hypothesize that the complex formed by the anti-miR and the miRNA in P-bodies is dynamic, with anti-miR complexing the miRISC, followed by miRNA release and degradation. Our findings provide valuable insights into the mechanism of action of anti-miRs and enable further studies of miRNA-targeted therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyu Zhu
- Department of Bimolecular Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya 464-8603, Japan
| | - Yukiko Kamiya
- Department of Bimolecular Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya 464-8603, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Asanuma
- Department of Bimolecular Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya 464-8603, Japan
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9
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Bailey S, Ferraresso M, Alonso-Crisostomo L, Ward D, Smith S, Nicholson JC, Saini H, Enright AJ, Scarpini CG, Coleman N, Murray MJ. Targeting oncogenic microRNAs from the miR-371~373 and miR-302/367 clusters in malignant germ cell tumours causes growth inhibition through cell cycle disruption. Br J Cancer 2023; 129:1451-1461. [PMID: 37789102 PMCID: PMC10628203 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-023-02453-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND MiR-371~373 and miR-302/367 cluster over-expression occurs in all malignant germ cell tumours (GCTs), regardless of age (paediatric/adult), site (gonadal/extragonadal), or subtype [seminoma, yolk sac tumour (YST), embryonal carcinoma (EC)]. Six of eight microRNAs from these clusters contain the seed sequence 'AAGUGC', determining mRNA targeting. Here we sought to identify the significance of these observations by targeting these microRNAs functionally. METHODS We targeted miR-371~373 and/or miR-302/367 clusters in malignant GCT cell lines, using CRISPR-Cas9, gapmer primary miR-302/367 transcript inhibition, and peptide nucleic acid (PNA) or locked nucleic acid (LNA)-DNA inhibition targeting miR-302a-d-3p, and undertook relevant functional assays. RESULTS MiR-302/367 cluster microRNAs made the largest contribution to AAGUGC seed abundance in malignant GCT cells, regardless of subtype (seminoma/YST/EC). Following the unsuccessful use of CRISPR-Cas9, gapmer, and PNA systems, LNA-DNA-based targeting resulted in growth inhibition in seminoma and YST cells. This was associated with the de-repression of multiple mRNAs targeted by AAGUGC seed-containing microRNAs, with pathway analysis confirming predominant disruption of Rho-GTPase signalling, vesicle organisation/transport, and cell cycle regulation, findings corroborated in clinical samples. Further LNA-DNA inhibitor studies confirmed direct cell cycle effects, with an increase of cells in G0/G1-phase and a decrease in S-phase. CONCLUSION Targeting of specific miR-371~373 and miR-302/367 microRNAs in malignant GCTs demonstrated their functional significance, with growth inhibition mediated through cell cycle disruption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shivani Bailey
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 1QP, UK
- Department of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - Marta Ferraresso
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 1QP, UK
| | | | - Dawn Ward
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 1QP, UK
| | - Stephen Smith
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 1QP, UK
| | - James C Nicholson
- Department of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ, UK
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - Harpreet Saini
- EMBL-European Bioinformatics Institute (EMBL-EBI), Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge, CB10 1SD, UK
| | - Anton J Enright
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 1QP, UK
| | - Cinzia G Scarpini
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 1QP, UK
| | - Nicholas Coleman
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 1QP, UK.
- Department of Histopathology, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ, UK.
| | - Matthew J Murray
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 1QP, UK.
- Department of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ, UK.
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10
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Liao YC, Cheng TC, Tu SH, Chang J, Guo P, Chen LC, Ho YS. Tumor targeting and therapeutic assessments of RNA nanoparticles carrying α9-nAChR aptamer and anti-miR-21 in triple-negative breast cancers. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2023; 33:351-366. [PMID: 37547295 PMCID: PMC10400867 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2023.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is highly aggressive with a poor prognosis because of a lack of cell markers as drug targets. α9-Nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) is expressed abundantly in TNBC; thus, it is a valuable biomarker for TNBC detection and treatment. In this study, we utilized thermodynamically stable three-way junction (3WJ) packaging RNA (pRNA) as the core to construct RNA nanoparticles with an α9-nAChR RNA aptamer as a targeting ligand and an anti-microRNA-21 (miR-21) as a therapeutic module. We compared the configuration of the two RNA nanoparticles and found that 3WJ-B-α9-nAChR-aptamer fluorescent RNA nanoparticles (3WJ-B-α9-apt-Alexa) exhibited better specificity for α9-nAChR in TNBC cells compared with 3WJ-C-α9-nAChR. Furthermore, 3WJ-B-α9-apt-Alexa bound more efficiently to TNBC patient-derived xenograft (PDX) tumors than 3WJ fluorescent RNA nanoparticles (3WJ-Alexa) with little or no accumulation in healthy organs after systemic injection in mice. Moreover, 3WJ-B-α9-nAChR-aptamer RNA nanoparticles carrying anti-miR-21 (3WJ-B-α9-apt-anti-miR-21) significantly suppressed TNBC-PDX tumor growth and induced cell apoptosis because of reduced miR-21 gene expression and upregulated the phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) and programmed cell death 4 (PDCD4) proteins. In addition, no pathological changes were detected upon toxicity examination of treated mice. In conclusion, the 3WJ-B-α9-nAChR-aptamer RNA nanoparticles established in this study efficiently deliver therapeutic anti-miR-21, indicating their potential as a novel TNBC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- You-Cheng Liao
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110031, Taiwan
| | - Tzu-Chun Cheng
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung 406040, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Hsin Tu
- Department of Surgery, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | - Jungshan Chang
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110031, Taiwan
- International Master/PhD Program in Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110031, Taiwan
| | - Peixuan Guo
- Center for RNA Nanobiotechnology and Nanomedicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
- Division of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
- James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
- College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
- Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Li-Ching Chen
- Department of Biological Science & Technology, College of Life Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung 406040, Taiwan
| | - Yuan-Soon Ho
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung 406040, Taiwan
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11
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Weidner J, Kolosionek E, Holmila R, Ax E, Garreau M, Gnerlich F, Olsson H, Czechtizky W, Vollmer S, Rydzik AM. Gymnotic uptake of AntimiRs alter microRNA-34a levels in 2D and 3D epithelial cell culture. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2023; 33:898-907. [PMID: 37680982 PMCID: PMC10480572 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2023.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
MicroRNAs are attractive therapeutic targets in many diseases, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Among microRNA inhibitors antimiRs have been proven successful in lowering aberrant microRNA levels in the clinic. We present a set of antimiRs targeting miR-34a, which has been shown to be dysregulated in chronic lung diseases. The tool compounds were taken up by a bronchial epithelial cell line and primary human bronchial epithelial cells, followed by efficient knockdown of miR-34a. Similar results were observed in 3D differentiated primary human bronchial epithelial cells cultured at the air-liquid interface. Varying chemical properties of antimiRs had significant impact on cellular uptake and potency, resulting in effective tool compounds for use in lung-relevant cellular systems. This report demonstrates gymnotic antimiR uptake and activity in 3D epithelial cell culture after apical administration, mimicking inhalation conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Weidner
- Translational Science Experimental Medicine, Research & Early Development, Respiratory & Immunology, BioPharmaceutical R&D, AstraZeneca, 431 83 Mölndal, Sweden
| | - Ewa Kolosionek
- Bioscience COPD/IPF, Research & Early Development, Respiratory & Immunology, BioPharmaceutical R&D, AstraZeneca, 431 83 Mölndal, Sweden
| | - Reetta Holmila
- Bioscience COPD/IPF, Research & Early Development, Respiratory & Immunology, BioPharmaceutical R&D, AstraZeneca, 431 83 Mölndal, Sweden
| | - Elisabeth Ax
- Translational Science Experimental Medicine, Research & Early Development, Respiratory & Immunology, BioPharmaceutical R&D, AstraZeneca, 431 83 Mölndal, Sweden
| | - Marion Garreau
- Medicinal Chemistry, Research & Early Development, Respiratory & Immunology, BioPharmaceutical R&D, AstraZeneca, 431 83 Mölndal, Sweden
| | - Felix Gnerlich
- Medicinal Chemistry, Research & Early Development, Respiratory & Immunology, BioPharmaceutical R&D, AstraZeneca, 431 83 Mölndal, Sweden
| | - Henric Olsson
- Translational Science Experimental Medicine, Research & Early Development, Respiratory & Immunology, BioPharmaceutical R&D, AstraZeneca, 431 83 Mölndal, Sweden
| | - Werngard Czechtizky
- Medicinal Chemistry, Research & Early Development, Respiratory & Immunology, BioPharmaceutical R&D, AstraZeneca, 431 83 Mölndal, Sweden
| | - Stefan Vollmer
- Bioscience COPD/IPF, Research & Early Development, Respiratory & Immunology, BioPharmaceutical R&D, AstraZeneca, 431 83 Mölndal, Sweden
| | - Anna M. Rydzik
- Medicinal Chemistry, Research & Early Development, Respiratory & Immunology, BioPharmaceutical R&D, AstraZeneca, 431 83 Mölndal, Sweden
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12
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Xie J, Du Y, Liu D, Wu J, Yang K, He X, Zhao J, Hong P, Liao K, Zhang H, Hong Y, Teijaro JR, Kang SG, Xiao C, Liu WH. The miR-17∼92 miRNAs promote plasma cell differentiation by suppressing SOCS3-mediated NIK degradation. Cell Rep 2023; 42:112968. [PMID: 37578862 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.112968] [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: 12/04/2022] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The miR-17∼92 family microRNAs (miRNAs) play a key role in germinal center (GC) reaction through promoting T follicular helper (TFH) cell differentiation. It remains unclear whether they also have intrinsic functions in B cell differentiation and function. Here we show that mice with B cell-specific deletion of the miR-17∼92 family exhibit impaired GC reaction, plasma cell differentiation, and antibody production in response to protein antigen immunization and chronic viral infection. Employing CRISPR-mediated functional screening, we identify Socs3 as a key functional target of miR-17∼92 in regulating plasma cell differentiation. Mechanistically, SOCS3, whose expression is elevated in miR-17∼92 family-deficient B cells, interacts with NIK and promotes its ubiquitination and degradation, thereby impairing NF-κB signaling and plasma cell differentiation. This moderate increase in SOCS3 expression has little effect on IL-21-STAT3 signaling. Our study demonstrates differential sensitivity of two key signaling pathways to alterations in the protein level of an miRNA target gene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Ying Du
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Dewang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Jianfeng Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Kang Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Xiaoyu He
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Jiayi Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Peicheng Hong
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Kunyu Liao
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Huanrong Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Yazhen Hong
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - John R Teijaro
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Seung Goo Kang
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA; Division of Biomedical Convergence/Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, College of Biomedical Science, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea.
| | - Changchun Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China; Department of Immunology and Microbiology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA.
| | - Wen-Hsien Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China.
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13
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Vasconcelos CFM, Ribas VT, Petrs-Silva H. Shared Molecular Pathways in Glaucoma and Other Neurodegenerative Diseases: Insights from RNA-Seq Analysis and miRNA Regulation for Promising Therapeutic Avenues. Cells 2023; 12:2155. [PMID: 37681887 PMCID: PMC10486375 DOI: 10.3390/cells12172155] [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: 07/29/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Advances in RNA-sequencing technologies have led to the identification of molecular biomarkers for several diseases, including neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, Huntington's diseases and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Despite the nature of glaucoma as a neurodegenerative disorder with several similarities with the other above-mentioned diseases, transcriptional data about this disease are still scarce. microRNAs are small molecules (~17-25 nucleotides) that have been found to be specifically expressed in the CNS as major components of the system regulating the development signatures of neurodegenerative diseases and the homeostasis of the brain. In this review, we sought to identify similarities between the functional mechanisms and the activated pathways of the most common neurodegenerative diseases, as well as to discuss how those mechanisms are regulated by miRNAs, using RNA-Seq as an approach to compare them. We also discuss therapeutically suitable applications for these disease hallmarks in clinical future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Franciney Moreira Vasconcelos
- University of Medicine of Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
- Institute of Biophysics Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil
| | - Vinicius Toledo Ribas
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (ICB/UFMG), Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Brazil;
| | - Hilda Petrs-Silva
- Institute of Biophysics Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil
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14
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Panella R, Cotton CA, Maymi VA, Best S, Berry KE, Lee S, Batalini F, Vlachos IS, Clohessy JG, Kauppinen S, Paolo Pandolfi P. Targeting of microRNA-22 Suppresses Tumor Spread in a Mouse Model of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11051470. [PMID: 37239141 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11051470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Revised: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
microRNA-22 (miR-22) is an oncogenic miRNA whose up-regulation promotes epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), tumor invasion, and metastasis in hormone-responsive breast cancer. Here we show that miR-22 plays a key role in triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) by promoting EMT and aggressiveness in 2D and 3D cell models and a mouse xenograft model of human TNBC, respectively. Furthermore, we report that miR-22 inhibition using an LNA-modified antimiR-22 compound is effective in reducing EMT both in vitro and in vivo. Importantly, pharmacologic inhibition of miR-22 suppressed metastatic spread and markedly prolonged survival in mouse xenograft models of metastatic TNBC highlighting the potential of miR-22 silencing as a new therapeutic strategy for the treatment of TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Panella
- Cancer Research Institute, Beth Israel Deaconess Cancer Center, Departments of Medicine and Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Center for Genomic Medicine, Desert Research Institute, Reno, NV 89512, USA
- Center for RNA Medicine, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, 2450 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Cody A Cotton
- Center for Genomic Medicine, Desert Research Institute, Reno, NV 89512, USA
| | - Valerie A Maymi
- Preclinical Murine Pharmacogenetics Facility and Mouse Hospital, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Sachem Best
- Preclinical Murine Pharmacogenetics Facility and Mouse Hospital, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Kelsey E Berry
- Center for Genomic Medicine, Desert Research Institute, Reno, NV 89512, USA
| | - Samuel Lee
- Preclinical Murine Pharmacogenetics Facility and Mouse Hospital, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Felipe Batalini
- Cancer Research Institute, Beth Israel Deaconess Cancer Center, Departments of Medicine and Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Ioannis S Vlachos
- Cancer Research Institute, Beth Israel Deaconess Cancer Center, Departments of Medicine and Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - John G Clohessy
- Cancer Research Institute, Beth Israel Deaconess Cancer Center, Departments of Medicine and Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Preclinical Murine Pharmacogenetics Facility and Mouse Hospital, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Sakari Kauppinen
- Center for RNA Medicine, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, 2450 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Pier Paolo Pandolfi
- Cancer Research Institute, Beth Israel Deaconess Cancer Center, Departments of Medicine and Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Turin, 10154 Turin, Italy
- Renown Institute for Cancer, Nevada System of Higher Education, Reno, NV 89502, USA
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15
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Zhang L, Zhang Y, Li X, Gao H, Chen X, Li P. CircRNA-miRNA-VEGFA: an important pathway to regulate cancer pathogenesis. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1049742. [PMID: 37234708 PMCID: PMC10206052 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1049742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancers, especially malignant tumors, contribute to high global mortality rates, resulting in great economic burden to society. Many factors are associated with cancer pathogenesis, including vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGFA) and circular RNAs (circRNA). VEGFA is a pivotal regulator of vascular development such as angiogenesis, which is an important process in cancer development. CircRNAs have covalently closed structures, making them highly stable. CircRNAs are widely distributed and participate in many physiological and pathological processes, including modulating cancer pathogenesis. CircRNAs act as transcriptional regulators of parental genes, microRNA (miRNA)/RNA binding protein (RBP) sponges, protein templates. CircRNAs mainly function via binding to miRNAs. CircRNAs have been shown to influence different diseases such as coronary artery diseases and cancers by regulating VEGFA levels via binding to miRNAs. In this paper, we explored the origin and functional pathways of VEGFA, reviewed the current understanding of circRNA properties and action mechanisms, and summarized the role of circRNAs in regulating VEGFA during cancer pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Zhang
- *Correspondence: Lei Zhang, ; Peifeng Li,
| | | | | | | | | | - Peifeng Li
- *Correspondence: Lei Zhang, ; Peifeng Li,
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16
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Safi A, Saberiyan M, Sanaei MJ, Adelian S, Davarani Asl F, Zeinaly M, Shamsi M, Ahmadi R. The role of noncoding RNAs in metabolic reprogramming of cancer cells. Cell Mol Biol Lett 2023; 28:37. [PMID: 37161350 PMCID: PMC10169341 DOI: 10.1186/s11658-023-00447-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Metabolic reprogramming is a well-known feature of cancer that allows malignant cells to alter metabolic reactions and nutrient uptake, thereby promoting tumor growth and spread. It has been discovered that noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs), including microRNA (miRNA), long noncoding RNA (lncRNA), and circular RNA (circRNA), have a role in a variety of biological functions, control physiologic and developmental processes, and even influence disease. They have been recognized in numerous cancer types as tumor suppressors and oncogenic agents. The role of ncRNAs in the metabolic reprogramming of cancer cells has recently been noticed. We examine this subject, with an emphasis on the metabolism of glucose, lipids, and amino acids, and highlight the therapeutic use of targeting ncRNAs in cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Safi
- Clinical Biochemistry Research Center, Basic Health Sciences Institute, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Mohammadreza Saberiyan
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Basic Health Sciences Institute, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Mohammad-Javad Sanaei
- Department of Hematology and Blood Banking, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Samaneh Adelian
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Basic Health Sciences Institute, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Fateme Davarani Asl
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Basic Health Sciences Institute, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Mahsa Zeinaly
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran
| | - Mahdi Shamsi
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Najafabad Branch, Islamic Azad University, Najafabad, Iran
| | - Reza Ahmadi
- Medical Plants Research Center, Basic Health Sciences Institute, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Rahmatiyeh Region, Shahrekord, Iran.
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17
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Anwar S, Mir F, Yokota T. Enhancing the Effectiveness of Oligonucleotide Therapeutics Using Cell-Penetrating Peptide Conjugation, Chemical Modification, and Carrier-Based Delivery Strategies. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15041130. [PMID: 37111616 PMCID: PMC10140998 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15041130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Oligonucleotide-based therapies are a promising approach for treating a wide range of hard-to-treat diseases, particularly genetic and rare diseases. These therapies involve the use of short synthetic sequences of DNA or RNA that can modulate gene expression or inhibit proteins through various mechanisms. Despite the potential of these therapies, a significant barrier to their widespread use is the difficulty in ensuring their uptake by target cells/tissues. Strategies to overcome this challenge include cell-penetrating peptide conjugation, chemical modification, nanoparticle formulation, and the use of endogenous vesicles, spherical nucleic acids, and smart material-based delivery vehicles. This article provides an overview of these strategies and their potential for the efficient delivery of oligonucleotide drugs, as well as the safety and toxicity considerations, regulatory requirements, and challenges in translating these therapies from the laboratory to the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saeed Anwar
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2H7, Canada
| | - Farin Mir
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2H7, Canada
| | - Toshifumi Yokota
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2H7, Canada
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18
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Pradeep SP, Malik S, Slack FJ, Bahal R. Unlocking the potential of chemically modified peptide nucleic acids for RNA-based therapeutics. RNA (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2023; 29:434-445. [PMID: 36653113 PMCID: PMC10019372 DOI: 10.1261/rna.079498.122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
RNA therapeutics have emerged as next-generation therapy for the treatment of many diseases. Unlike small molecules, RNA targeted drugs are not limited by the availability of binding pockets on the protein, but rather utilize Watson-Crick (WC) base-pairing rules to recognize the target RNA and modulate gene expression. Antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) present a powerful therapeutic approach to treat disorders triggered by genetic alterations. ASOs recognize the cognate site on the target RNA to alter gene expression. Nine single-stranded ASOs have been approved for clinical use and several candidates are in late-stage clinical trials for both rare and common diseases. Several chemical modifications, including phosphorothioates, locked nucleic acid, phosphorodiamidate, morpholino, and peptide nucleic acids (PNAs), have been investigated for efficient RNA targeting. PNAs are synthetic DNA mimics where the deoxyribose phosphate backbone is replaced by N-(2-aminoethyl)-glycine units. The neutral pseudopeptide backbone of PNAs contributes to enhanced binding affinity and high biological stability. PNAs hybridize with the complementary site in the target RNA and act by a steric hindrance--based mechanism. In the last three decades, various PNA designs, chemical modifications, and delivery strategies have been explored to demonstrate their potential as an effective and safe RNA-targeting platform. This review covers the advances in PNA-mediated targeting of coding and noncoding RNAs for a myriad of therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sai Pallavi Pradeep
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut 06269, USA
| | - Shipra Malik
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut 06269, USA
| | - Frank J Slack
- HMS Initiative for RNA Medicine, Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
| | - Raman Bahal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut 06269, USA
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19
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Wang Y, Malik S, Suh HW, Xiao Y, Deng Y, Fan R, Huttner A, Bindra RS, Singh V, Saltzman WM, Bahal R. Anti-seed PNAs targeting multiple oncomiRs for brain tumor therapy. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eabq7459. [PMID: 36753549 PMCID: PMC9908025 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abq7459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is one of the most lethal malignancies with poor survival and high recurrence rates. Here, we aimed to simultaneously target oncomiRs 10b and 21, reported to drive GBM progression and invasiveness. We designed short (8-mer) γ-modified peptide nucleic acids (sγPNAs), targeting the seed region of oncomiRs 10b and 21. We entrapped these anti-miR sγPNAs in nanoparticles (NPs) formed from a block copolymer of poly(lactic acid) and hyperbranched polyglycerol (PLA-HPG). The surface of the NPs was functionalized with aldehydes to produce bioadhesive NPs (BNPs) with superior transfection efficiency and tropism for tumor cells. When combined with temozolomide, sγPNA BNPs administered via convection-enhanced delivery (CED) markedly increased the survival (>120 days) of two orthotopic (intracranial) mouse models of GBM. Hence, we established that BNPs loaded with anti-seed sγPNAs targeting multiple oncomiRs are a promising approach to improve the treatment of GBM, with a potential to personalize treatment based on tumor-specific oncomiRs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yazhe Wang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - Shipra Malik
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
| | - Hee-Won Suh
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - Yong Xiao
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - Yanxiang Deng
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - Rong Fan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - Anita Huttner
- Department of Pathology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Ranjit S. Bindra
- Department of Therapeutic Radiology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Vijender Singh
- Computational Biology Core, Institute for Systems Genomics, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
| | - W. Mark Saltzman
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - Raman Bahal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
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20
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Kamali MJ, Salehi M, Fatemi S, Moradi F, Khoshghiafeh A, Ahmadifard M. Locked nucleic acid (LNA): A modern approach to cancer diagnosis and treatment. Exp Cell Res 2023; 423:113442. [PMID: 36521777 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2022.113442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2022] [Revised: 12/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Cancer is responsible for about one in six deaths in the world. Conventional cancer treatments like chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery are associated with drug poisoning and poor prognosis. Thanks to advances in RNA delivery and target selection, new cancer medicines are now conceivable to improve the quality of life and extend the lives of cancer patients. Antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) and siRNAs are the most important tools in RNA therapies. Locked Nucleic Acids (LNAs) are one of the newest RNA analogs, exhibiting more affinity to binding, sequence specificity, thermal stability, and nuclease resistance due to their unique properties. Assays using LNA are also used in molecular diagnostic methods and provide accurate and rapid mutation detection that improves specificity and sensitivity. This study aims to review the special properties of LNA oligonucleotides that make them safe and effective antisense drugs for cancer treatment by controlling gene expression. Following that, we go over all of the molecular detection methods and cancer treatment antisense tactics that are possible with LNA technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Javad Kamali
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Mohammad Salehi
- School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Somayeh Fatemi
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Fereshteh Moradi
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Azin Khoshghiafeh
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Mohamadreza Ahmadifard
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran.
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21
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Shaharyar MA, Bhowmik R, Al-Abbasi FA, AlGhamdi SA, Alghamdi AM, Sarkar A, Kazmi I, Karmakar S. Vaccine Formulation Strategies and Challenges Involved in RNA Delivery for Modulating Biomarkers of Cardiovascular Diseases: A Race from Laboratory to Market. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:vaccines11020241. [PMID: 36851119 PMCID: PMC9963957 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11020241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
It has been demonstrated that noncoding RNAs have significant physiological and pathological roles. Modulation of noncoding RNAs may offer therapeutic approaches as per recent findings. Small RNAs, mostly long noncoding RNAs, siRNA, and microRNAs make up noncoding RNAs. Inhibiting or promoting protein breakdown by binding to 3' untranslated regions of target mRNA, microRNAs post-transcriptionally control the pattern of gene expression. Contrarily, long non-coding RNAs perform a wider range of tasks, including serving as molecular scaffolding, decoys, and epigenetic regulators. This article provides instances of long noncoding RNAs and microRNAs that may be a biomarker of CVD (cardiovascular disease). In this paper we highlight various RNA-based vaccine formulation strategies designed to target these biomarkers-that are either currently in the research pipeline or are in the global pharmaceutical market-along with the physiological hurdles that need to be overcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md. Adil Shaharyar
- Bioequivalence Study Centre, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Jadavpur University, Kolkata 700032, West Bengal, India
| | - Rudranil Bhowmik
- Bioequivalence Study Centre, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Jadavpur University, Kolkata 700032, West Bengal, India
| | - Fahad A. Al-Abbasi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Shareefa A. AlGhamdi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
- Experimental Biochemistry Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amira M. Alghamdi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Arnab Sarkar
- Bioequivalence Study Centre, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Jadavpur University, Kolkata 700032, West Bengal, India
| | - Imran Kazmi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
- Correspondence: (I.K.); (S.K.); Tel.: +966-543970731 (I.K.); +91-8017136385 (S.K.)
| | - Sanmoy Karmakar
- Bioequivalence Study Centre, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Jadavpur University, Kolkata 700032, West Bengal, India
- Correspondence: (I.K.); (S.K.); Tel.: +966-543970731 (I.K.); +91-8017136385 (S.K.)
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22
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Panella R, Zanderigo F, Morandini F, Federico D, Vicentini E, Andreetta F, Toniolo A, Kauppinen S. Assessment of immunostimulatory responses to the antimiR-22 oligonucleotide compound RES-010 in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1125654. [PMID: 37033600 PMCID: PMC10076763 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1125654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
microRNA-22 (miR-22) is a key regulator of lipid and energy homeostasis and represents a promising therapeutic target for NAFLD and obesity. We have previously identified a locked nucleic acid (LNA)-modified antisense oligonucleotide compound complementary to miR-22, designated as RES-010 that mediated robust inhibition of miR-22 function in cultured cells and in vivo. In this study we investigated the immune potential of RES-010 in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). We treated fresh human peripheral blood mononuclear cells isolated from six healthy volunteers with different concentrations of the RES-010 compound and assessed its proinflammatory effects by quantifying IL-1β, IL-6, IFN-γ, TNF-α, IFN-α2a, IFN-β, IL-10, and IL-17A in the supernatants collected 24 h of treatment with RES-010. The T-cell activation markers, CD69, HLA-DR, and CD25 were evaluated by flow cytometry after 24 and 144 h of treatment, respectively, whereas cell viability was assessed after 24 h of treatment with RES-010. Our results show that RES-010 compound does not induce any significant immunostimulatory responses in human PBMCs in vitro compared to controls, implying that the proinflammatory potential of RES-010 is low.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Panella
- Center for RNA Medicine, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Resalis Therapeutics S.r.l., Torino, Italy
- *Correspondence: Riccardo Panella,
| | - Floriana Zanderigo
- Aptuit (Verona) S.r.l., an Evotec Company, Campus Levi-Montalcini, Verona, Italy
| | - Francesca Morandini
- Aptuit (Verona) S.r.l., an Evotec Company, Campus Levi-Montalcini, Verona, Italy
| | - Denise Federico
- Aptuit (Verona) S.r.l., an Evotec Company, Campus Levi-Montalcini, Verona, Italy
| | - Elena Vicentini
- Aptuit (Verona) S.r.l., an Evotec Company, Campus Levi-Montalcini, Verona, Italy
| | - Filippo Andreetta
- Aptuit (Verona) S.r.l., an Evotec Company, Campus Levi-Montalcini, Verona, Italy
| | | | - Sakari Kauppinen
- Center for RNA Medicine, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Copenhagen, Denmark
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23
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Lee SH, Ng CX, Wong SR, Chong PP. MiRNAs Overexpression and Their Role in Breast Cancer: Implications for Cancer Therapeutics. Curr Drug Targets 2023; 24:484-508. [PMID: 36999414 DOI: 10.2174/1389450124666230329123409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023]
Abstract
MicroRNAs have a plethora of roles in various biological processes in the cells and most human cancers have been shown to be associated with dysregulation of the expression of miRNA genes. MiRNA biogenesis involves two alternative pathways, the canonical pathway which requires the successful cooperation of various proteins forming the miRNA-inducing silencing complex (miRISC), and the non-canonical pathway, such as the mirtrons, simtrons, or agotrons pathway, which bypasses and deviates from specific steps in the canonical pathway. Mature miRNAs are secreted from cells and circulated in the body bound to argonaute 2 (AGO2) and miRISC or transported in vesicles. These miRNAs may regulate their downstream target genes via positive or negative regulation through different molecular mechanisms. This review focuses on the role and mechanisms of miRNAs in different stages of breast cancer progression, including breast cancer stem cell formation, breast cancer initiation, invasion, and metastasis as well as angiogenesis. The design, chemical modifications, and therapeutic applications of synthetic anti-sense miRNA oligonucleotides and RNA mimics are also discussed in detail. The strategies for systemic delivery and local targeted delivery of the antisense miRNAs encompass the use of polymeric and liposomal nanoparticles, inorganic nanoparticles, extracellular vesicles, as well as viral vectors and viruslike particles (VLPs). Although several miRNAs have been identified as good candidates for the design of antisense and other synthetic modified oligonucleotides in targeting breast cancer, further efforts are still needed to study the most optimal delivery method in order to drive the research beyond preclinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sau Har Lee
- School of Biosciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Taylor's University, Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
- Centre for Drug Discovery and Molecular Pharmacology (CDDMP), Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Taylor's University, Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Chu Xin Ng
- School of Biosciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Taylor's University, Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Sharon Rachel Wong
- School of Biosciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Taylor's University, Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Pei Pei Chong
- School of Biosciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Taylor's University, Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
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24
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microRNAs: Critical Players during Helminth Infections. Microorganisms 2022; 11:microorganisms11010061. [PMID: 36677353 PMCID: PMC9861972 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11010061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
microRNAs (miRNAs) are a group of small non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression post-transcriptionally through their interaction with the 3' untranslated regions (3' UTR) of target mRNAs, affecting their stability and/or translation. Therefore, miRNAs regulate biological processes such as signal transduction, cell death, autophagy, metabolism, development, cellular proliferation, and differentiation. Dysregulated expression of microRNAs is associated with infectious diseases, where miRNAs modulate important aspects of the parasite-host interaction. Helminths are parasitic worms that cause various neglected tropical diseases affecting millions worldwide. These parasites have sophisticated mechanisms that give them a surprising immunomodulatory capacity favoring parasite persistence and establishment of infection. In this review, we analyze miRNAs in infections caused by helminths, emphasizing their role in immune regulation and its implication in diagnosis, prognosis, and the development of therapeutic strategies.
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25
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Systems Biology in Chronic Heart Failure-Identification of Potential miRNA Regulators. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232315226. [PMID: 36499552 PMCID: PMC9740605 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232315226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Heart failure (HF) is a complex disease entity with high clinical impact, poorly understood pathophysiology and scantly known miRNA-mediated epigenetic regulation. We have analysed miRNA patterns in patients with chronic HF (cHF) and a sex- and age-matched reference group and pursued an in silico system biology analysis to discern pathways involved in cHF pathophysiology. Twenty-eight miRNAs were identified in cHF that were up-regulated in the reference group, and eight of them were validated by RT-qPCR. In silico analysis of predicted targets by STRING protein-protein interaction networks revealed eight cluster networks (involving seven of the identified miRNAs) enriched in pathways related to cell cycle, Ras, chemokine, PI3K-AKT and TGF-β signaling. By ROC curve analysis, combined probabilities of these seven miRNAs (let-7a-5p, miR-107, miR-125a-5p, miR-139-5p, miR-150-5p, miR-30b-5p and miR-342-3p; clusters 1-4 [C:1-4]), discriminated between HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) and HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), and ischaemic and non-ischaemic aetiology. A combination of miR-107, miR-139-5p and miR-150-5p, involved in clusters 5 and 7 (C:5+7), discriminated HFpEF from HFrEF. Pathway enrichment analysis of miRNAs present in C:1-4 (let-7a-5p, miR-125a-5p, miR-30b-5p and miR-342-3p) revealed pathways related to HF pathogenesis. In conclusion, we have identified a differential signature of down-regulated miRNAs in the plasma of HF patients and propose novel cellular mechanisms involved in cHF pathogenesis.
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26
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Nano drug delivery systems for antisense oligonucleotides (ASO) therapeutics. J Control Release 2022; 352:861-878. [PMID: 36397636 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2022.10.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Cancer, infectious diseases, and metabolic and hereditary genetic disorders are a global health burden affecting millions of people, with contemporary treatments offering limited relief. Antisense technology treats diseases by targeting their causal agents using its ability to alter or inhibit endogenous or malfunctioning genes. Nine antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) drugs that represent four different chemical classes have been approved for the treatment of rare diseases, including nusinersen, the first new oligonucleotide-based drug. Advances in medicinal chemistry, understanding the molecular pathways, and the availability of vast genetic data have resulted in enormous improvements in the therapeutic performance of ASO drugs; however, their susceptibility to degradation in the circulation, rapid renal clearance, and immunostimulatory adverse effects greatly limit their clinical applications. An increasing number of ASO-based therapeutics is being tested in clinical trials. Improvements to the delivery of ASO drugs could potentially change the therapeutic landscape for many conditions in the near future. This review describes the technological advances and developments in drug delivery systems pertaining to ASO therapeutics.
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27
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Clausse V, Zheng H, Amarasekara H, Kruhlak M, Appella DH. Thyclotides, tetrahydrofuran-modified peptide nucleic acids that efficiently penetrate cells and inhibit microRNA-21. Nucleic Acids Res 2022; 50:10839-10856. [PMID: 36215040 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkac864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Peptide nucleic acids (PNAs) are promising therapeutic molecules for gene modulation; however, they suffer from poor cell uptake. Delivery of PNAs into cells requires conjugation of the PNA to another large molecule, typically a cell-penetrating peptide or nanoparticle. In this study, we describe a new PNA-based molecule with cyclic tetrahydrofuran (THF) backbone modifications that in some cases considerably improve cell uptake. We refer to these THF-PNA oligomers as thyclotides. With THF groups at every position of the oligomer, the cell uptake of thyclotides targeted to miR-21 is enhanced compared with the corresponding unmodified PNA based on an aminoethylglycine backbone. An optimized thyclotide can efficiently enter cells without the use of cell-penetrating peptides, bind miR-21, its designated microRNA target, decrease expression of miR-21 and increase expression of three downstream targets (PTEN, Cdc25a and KRIT1). Using a plasmid with the PTEN-3'UTR coupled with luciferase, we further confirmed that a miR-21-targeted thyclotide prevents miR-21 from binding to its target RNA. Additionally, the thyclotide shows no cytotoxicity when administered at 200 times its active concentration. We propose that thyclotides be further explored as therapeutic candidates to modulate miRNA levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor Clausse
- Synthetic Bioactive Molecules Section, Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, NIDDK, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Hongchao Zheng
- Synthetic Bioactive Molecules Section, Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, NIDDK, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Harsha Amarasekara
- Synthetic Bioactive Molecules Section, Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, NIDDK, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Michael Kruhlak
- Microscopy Core Facility, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Daniel H Appella
- Synthetic Bioactive Molecules Section, Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, NIDDK, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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28
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Bernardo BC, Yildiz GS, Kiriazis H, Harmawan CA, Tai CMK, Ritchie RH, McMullen JR. In Vivo Inhibition of miR-34a Modestly Limits Cardiac Enlargement and Fibrosis in a Mouse Model with Established Type 1 Diabetes-Induced Cardiomyopathy, but Does Not Improve Diastolic Function. Cells 2022; 11:cells11193117. [PMID: 36231079 PMCID: PMC9563608 DOI: 10.3390/cells11193117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNA 34a (miR-34a) is elevated in the heart in a setting of cardiac stress or pathology, and we previously reported that inhibition of miR-34a in vivo provided protection in a setting of pressure overload-induced pathological cardiac hypertrophy and dilated cardiomyopathy. Prior work had also shown that circulating or cardiac miR-34a was elevated in a setting of diabetes. However, the therapeutic potential of inhibiting miR-34a in vivo in the diabetic heart had not been assessed. In the current study, type 1 diabetes was induced in adult male mice with 5 daily injections of streptozotocin (STZ). At 8 weeks post-STZ, when mice had established type 1 diabetes and diastolic dysfunction, mice were administered locked nucleic acid (LNA)-antimiR-34a or saline-control with an eight-week follow-up. Cardiac function, cardiac morphology, cardiac fibrosis, capillary density and gene expression were assessed. Diabetic mice presented with high blood glucose, elevated liver and kidney weights, diastolic dysfunction, mild cardiac enlargement, cardiac fibrosis and reduced myocardial capillary density. miR-34a was elevated in the heart of diabetic mice in comparison to non-diabetic mice. Inhibition of miR-34a had no significant effect on diastolic function or atrial enlargement, but had a mild effect on preventing an elevation in cardiac enlargement, fibrosis and ventricular gene expression of B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) and the anti-angiogenic miRNA (miR-92a). A miR-34a target, vinculin, was inversely correlated with miR-34a expression, but other miR-34a targets were unchanged. In summary, inhibition of miR-34a provided limited protection in a mouse model with established type 1 diabetes-induced cardiomyopathy and failed to improve diastolic function. Given diabetes represents a systemic disorder with numerous miRNAs dysregulated in the diabetic heart, as well as other organs, strategies targeting multiple miRNAs and/or earlier intervention is likely to be required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianca C. Bernardo
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
- Department of Diabetes, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Gunes S. Yildiz
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
| | - Helen Kiriazis
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
- Baker Department of Cardiometabolic Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | | | | | - Rebecca H. Ritchie
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
- Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Julie R. McMullen
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
- Department of Diabetes, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
- Baker Department of Cardiometabolic Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
- Department of Physiology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Microbiology, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC 3086, Australia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +61-3-8532-1194
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29
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Targeting non-coding RNA family members with artificial endonuclease XNAzymes. Commun Biol 2022; 5:1010. [PMID: 36153384 PMCID: PMC9509326 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-022-03987-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractNon-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) offer a wealth of therapeutic targets for a range of diseases. However, secondary structures and high similarity within sequence families make specific knockdown challenging. Here, we engineer a series of artificial oligonucleotide enzymes (XNAzymes) composed of 2’-deoxy-2’-fluoro-β-D-arabino nucleic acid (FANA) that specifically or preferentially cleave individual ncRNA family members under quasi-physiological conditions, including members of the classic microRNA cluster miR-17~92 (oncomiR-1) and the Y RNA hY5. We demonstrate self-assembly of three anti-miR XNAzymes into a biostable catalytic XNA nanostructure, which targets the cancer-associated microRNAs miR-17, miR-20a and miR-21. Our results provide a starting point for the development of XNAzymes as a platform technology for precision knockdown of specific non-coding RNAs, with the potential to reduce off-target effects compared with other nucleic acid technologies.
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30
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Rhim J, Baek W, Seo Y, Kim JH. From Molecular Mechanisms to Therapeutics: Understanding MicroRNA-21 in Cancer. Cells 2022; 11:cells11182791. [PMID: 36139366 PMCID: PMC9497241 DOI: 10.3390/cells11182791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small noncoding RNAs that play an important role in regulating gene expression at a posttranscriptional level. As one of the first discovered oncogenic miRNAs, microRNA-21 (miR-21) has been highlighted for its critical role in cancers, such as glioblastoma, pancreatic adenocarcinoma, non-small cell lung cancer, and many others. MiR-21 targets many vital components in a wide range of cancers and acts on various cellular processes ranging from cancer stemness to cell death. Expression of miR-21 is elevated within cancer tissues and circulating miR-21 is readily detectable in biofluids, making it valuable as a cancer biomarker with significant potential for use in diagnosis and prognosis. Advances in RNA-based therapeutics have revealed additional avenues by which miR-21 can be utilized as a promising target in cancer. The purpose of this review is to outline the roles of miR-21 as a key modulator in various cancers and its potential as a therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiho Rhim
- Cancer Molecular Biology Branch, Division of Cancer Biology, Research Institute, National Cancer Center, Goyang 10408, Korea
- Department of Cancer Biomedical Science, National Cancer Center, Graduate School of Cancer Science and Policy, Goyang 10408, Korea
| | - Woosun Baek
- Cancer Molecular Biology Branch, Division of Cancer Biology, Research Institute, National Cancer Center, Goyang 10408, Korea
- Department of Cancer Biomedical Science, National Cancer Center, Graduate School of Cancer Science and Policy, Goyang 10408, Korea
| | - Yoona Seo
- Cancer Molecular Biology Branch, Division of Cancer Biology, Research Institute, National Cancer Center, Goyang 10408, Korea
- Department of Cancer Biomedical Science, National Cancer Center, Graduate School of Cancer Science and Policy, Goyang 10408, Korea
| | - Jong Heon Kim
- Cancer Molecular Biology Branch, Division of Cancer Biology, Research Institute, National Cancer Center, Goyang 10408, Korea
- Department of Cancer Biomedical Science, National Cancer Center, Graduate School of Cancer Science and Policy, Goyang 10408, Korea
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-31-920-2204
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31
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Eliason S, Hong L, Sweat Y, Chalkley C, Cao H, Liu Q, Qi H, Xu H, Zhan F, Amendt BA. Extracellular vesicle expansion of PMIS-miR-210 expression inhibits colorectal tumour growth via apoptosis and an XIST/NME1 regulatory mechanism. Clin Transl Med 2022; 12:e1037. [PMID: 36116139 PMCID: PMC9482803 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.1037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Revised: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Colorectal cancer (CRC) has a high mortality rate, and therapeutic approaches to treat these cancers are varied and depend on the metabolic state of the tumour. Profiles of CRC tumours have identified several biomarkers, including microRNAs. microRNA-210 (miR-210) levels are directly correlated with CRC survival. miR-210 expression is higher in metastatic colon cancer cells versus non-metastatic and normal colon epithelium. Therefore, efficient methods to inhibit miR-210 expression in CRC may provide new advances in treatments. METHODS Expression of miRs was determined in several metastatic and non-metastatic cell lines. miR-210 expression was inhibited using PMIS-miR-210 in transduced cells, which were transplanted into xenograft mice. In separate experiments, CRC tumours were allowed to grow in xenograft mice and treated with therapeutic injections of PMIS-miR-210. Molecular and biochemical experiments identified several new pathways targeted by miR-210 inhibition. RESULTS miR-210 inhibition can significantly reduce tumour growth of implanted colon cancer cells in xenograft mouse models. The direct administration of PMIS-miR-210 to existing tumours can inhibit tumour growth in both NSG and Foxn1nu/j mouse models and is more efficacious than capecitabine treatments. Tumour cells further transfer the PMIS-miR-210 inhibitor to neighbouring cells by extracellular vesicles to inhibit miR-210 throughout the tumour. miR-210 inhibition activates the cleaved caspase 3 apoptotic pathway to reduce tumour formation. We demonstrate that the long non-coding transcript XIST is regulated by miR-210 correlating with decreased XIST expression in CRC tumours. XIST acts as a competing endogenous RNA for miR-210, which reduces XIST levels and miR-210 inhibition increases XIST transcripts in the nucleus and cytoplasm. The increased expression of NME1 is associated with H3K4me3 and H3K27ac modifications in the NME1 proximal promoter by XIST. CONCLUSION Direct application of the PMIS-miR-210 inhibitor to growing tumours may be an effective colorectal cancer therapeutic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven Eliason
- Department of Anatomy and Cell BiologyThe University of IowaIowa CityIowaUSA
- Craniofacial Anomalies Research CenterThe University of IowaIowa CityIowaUSA
| | - Liu Hong
- Craniofacial Anomalies Research CenterThe University of IowaIowa CityIowaUSA
- Iowa Institute for Oral Health ResearchThe University of IowaIowa CityIowaUSA
| | - Yan Sweat
- Department of Anatomy and Cell BiologyThe University of IowaIowa CityIowaUSA
- Craniofacial Anomalies Research CenterThe University of IowaIowa CityIowaUSA
| | - Camille Chalkley
- Department of Anatomy and Cell BiologyThe University of IowaIowa CityIowaUSA
- Craniofacial Anomalies Research CenterThe University of IowaIowa CityIowaUSA
| | - Huojun Cao
- Iowa Institute for Oral Health ResearchThe University of IowaIowa CityIowaUSA
| | - Qi Liu
- Department of Anatomy and Cell BiologyThe University of IowaIowa CityIowaUSA
| | - Hank Qi
- Department of Anatomy and Cell BiologyThe University of IowaIowa CityIowaUSA
| | - Hongwei Xu
- Department of Internal MedicineUniversity of Arkansas for Medical ScienceLittle RockArkansasUSA
| | - Fenghuang Zhan
- Department of Internal MedicineUniversity of Arkansas for Medical ScienceLittle RockArkansasUSA
| | - Brad A. Amendt
- Department of Anatomy and Cell BiologyThe University of IowaIowa CityIowaUSA
- Craniofacial Anomalies Research CenterThe University of IowaIowa CityIowaUSA
- Iowa Institute for Oral Health ResearchThe University of IowaIowa CityIowaUSA
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Chen S, Zhang C, Shen L, Hu J, Chen X, Yu Y. Noncoding RNAs in cataract formation: star molecules emerge in an endless stream. Pharmacol Res 2022; 184:106417. [PMID: 36038044 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2022.106417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
For decades, research on the pathological mechanism of cataracts has usually focused on the abnormal protein changes caused by a series of risk factors. However, an entire class of molecules, termed non-coding RNA (ncRNA), was discovered in recent years and proven to be heavily involved in cataract formation. Recent studies have recognized the key regulatory roles of ncRNAs in cataracts by shaping cellular activities such as proliferation, apoptosis, migration and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). This review summarizes our current insight into the biogenesis, properties and functions of ncRNAs and then discusses the development of research on ncRNAs in cataracts. Considering the significant role of ncRNA in cataract formation, research on novel associated regulatory mechanisms is urgently needed, and the development of therapeutic alternatives for the treatment of cataracts seems promising.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silong Chen
- Eye Center of the Second Affiliated Hospital, Medical College of Zhejiang University, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, China
| | - Chengshou Zhang
- Eye Center of the Second Affiliated Hospital, Medical College of Zhejiang University, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lifang Shen
- Eye Center of the Second Affiliated Hospital, Medical College of Zhejiang University, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jianghua Hu
- Eye Center of the Second Affiliated Hospital, Medical College of Zhejiang University, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, China; Department of Ophthalmology, Jiande Branch, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiangjun Chen
- Eye Center of the Second Affiliated Hospital, Medical College of Zhejiang University, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, China; Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 268 Kaixuan Road, China.
| | - Yibo Yu
- Eye Center of the Second Affiliated Hospital, Medical College of Zhejiang University, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, China.
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33
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Kara G, Arun B, Calin GA, Ozpolat B. miRacle of microRNA-Driven Cancer Nanotherapeutics. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14153818. [PMID: 35954481 PMCID: PMC9367393 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14153818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Revised: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The discovery of microRNAs has revolutionized the world of science and opened up new opportunities in cancer treatment. miRNA dysregulation plays a crucial role in carcinogenesis processes, such as invasion, metastasis, and angiogenesis, in a broad range of cancers. Although the use of miRNA therapy in cancer treatment is promising, its effective and safe application remains one of the most important challenges hindering its clinical use. Novel nanoparticles continue to be developed and used to enable tumor-targeted miRNA delivery. The aim of the present review is to provide insights into the strategies for miRNA-based therapeutics in cancer, focusing on recent in vivo and clinical studies that have used nanoparticles for miRNA delivery. Abstract MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are non-protein-coding RNA molecules 20–25 nucleotides in length that can suppress the expression of genes involved in numerous physiological processes in cells. Accumulating evidence has shown that dysregulation of miRNA expression is related to the pathogenesis of various human diseases and cancers. Thus, stragegies involving either restoring the expression of tumor suppressor miRNAs or inhibiting overexpressed oncogenic miRNAs hold potential for targeted cancer therapies. However, delivery of miRNAs to tumor tissues is a challenging task. Recent advances in nanotechnology have enabled successful tumor-targeted delivery of miRNA therapeutics through newly designed nanoparticle-based carrier systems. As a result, miRNA therapeutics have entered human clinical trials with promising results, and they are expected to accelerate the transition of miRNAs from the bench to the bedside in the next decade. Here, we present recent perspectives and the newest developments, describing several engineered natural and synthetic novel miRNA nanocarrier formulations and their key in vivo applications and clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Goknur Kara
- Department of Nanomedicine, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry Division, Ordu University, Ordu 52200, Turkey
| | - Banu Arun
- Department of Breast Medical Oncology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, The University of Texas, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - George A. Calin
- Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, The University of Texas, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Bulent Ozpolat
- Department of Nanomedicine, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Houston Methodist Neal Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Correspondence:
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Barratt J, Pawluczyk I, Selvaskandan H. Clinical application of microRNAs in glomerular diseases. Nephrol Dial Transplant 2022; 38:1375-1384. [PMID: 35906877 DOI: 10.1093/ndt/gfac230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi) occurs in all organisms and modulates most, if not all, biological pathways. It is the process by which non-coding RNAs, including microRNAs (miRs), regulate gene transcription and post-transcriptional processing of messenger RNA (mRNA). A single miR can modulate several genes within a cell, and several miRs can regulate expression of the same gene, adding tiers of complexity to regulation of gene expression. MicroRNAs and other RNAi approaches have been successfully used in vitro and in vivo to selectively manipulate gene transcription, making them pivotal agents for basic science research and candidates for targeted therapeutics. This review will focus on miRs and their potential as biomarkers and novel therapeutics for glomerular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Barratt
- University of Leicester, Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Leicester, UK
| | - Izabella Pawluczyk
- University of Leicester, Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Leicester, UK
| | - Haresh Selvaskandan
- University of Leicester, Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Leicester, UK
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35
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MicroRNA-Based Diagnosis and Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23137167. [PMID: 35806173 PMCID: PMC9266664 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23137167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 166] [Impact Index Per Article: 83.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Revised: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a group of endogenous non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression. Alteration in miRNA expression results in changes in the profile of genes involving a range of biological processes, contributing to numerous human disorders. With high stability in human fluids, miRNAs in the circulation are considered as promising biomarkers for diagnosis, as well as prognosis of disease. In addition, the translation of miRNA-based therapy from a research setting to clinical application has huge potential. The aim of the current review is to: (i) discuss how miRNAs traffic intracellularly and extracellularly; (ii) emphasize the role of circulating miRNAs as attractive potential biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis; (iii) describe how circulating microRNA can be measured, emphasizing technical problems that may influence their relative levels; (iv) highlight some of the circulating miRNA panels available for clinical use; (v) discuss how miRNAs could be utilized as novel therapeutics, and finally (v) update those miRNA-based therapeutics clinical trials that could potentially lead to a breakthrough in the treatment of different human pathologies.
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36
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Murayama K, Kashida H, Asanuma H. Methyl group configuration on acyclic threoninol nucleic acids ( aTNAs) impacts supramolecular properties. Org Biomol Chem 2022; 20:4115-4122. [PMID: 35274662 DOI: 10.1039/d2ob00266c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
We have synthesized acyclic allo-threoninol nucleic acids (allo-aTNAs), artificial xeno-nucleic acids (XNAs) that are diastereomers of acyclic threoninol nucleic acids (aTNAs), and have investigated their supramolecular properties. The allo-aTNAs formed homo-duplexes in an antiparallel manner but with lower thermal stability than DNA, whereas aTNAs formed extremely stable homo-duplexes. The allo-aTNAs formed duplexes with complementary aTNAs and serinol nucleic acid (SNA). The affinities of L-allo-aTNA were the highest for L-aTNA and the lowest for D-aTNA, with SNA being intermediate. The affinities of D-allo-aTNA were the reverse. Circular dichroism measurements revealed that L- and D-allo-aTNAs had weak right-handed and left-handed helicities, respectively. The weak helicity of allo-aTNAs likely explains the poor chiral discrimination of these XNAs, which is in contrast to aTNAs that have strong helical orthogonality. Energy-minimized structures of L-allo-aTNA/RNA and L-allo-aTNA/L-allo-aTNA indicated that the methyl group on the allo-aTNA strand is unfavourable for duplex formation. In contrast, the methyl group on L-aTNA likely stabilizes the duplex structure via hydrophobic effects and van der Waals interactions. Thus, the configuration of the methyl group on the XNA scaffold had an unexpectedly large impact on the hybridization ability and structure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keiji Murayama
- Graduate School of Engineering, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya 464-8603, Japan.
| | - Hiromu Kashida
- Graduate School of Engineering, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya 464-8603, Japan.
| | - Hiroyuki Asanuma
- Graduate School of Engineering, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya 464-8603, Japan.
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Khare S, Khare T, Ramanathan R, Ibdah JA. Hepatocellular Carcinoma: The Role of MicroRNAs. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12050645. [PMID: 35625573 PMCID: PMC9138333 DOI: 10.3390/biom12050645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2022] [Revised: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. HCC is diagnosed in its advanced stage when limited treatment options are available. Substantial morphologic, genetic and epigenetic heterogeneity has been reported in HCC, which poses a challenge for the development of a targeted therapy. In this review, we discuss the role and involvement of several microRNAs (miRs) in the heterogeneity and metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma with a special emphasis on their possible role as a diagnostic and prognostic tool in the risk prediction, early detection, and treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharad Khare
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA; (S.K.); (T.K.); (R.R.)
- Harry S. Truman Veterans Hospital, Columbia, MO 65201, USA
| | - Tripti Khare
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA; (S.K.); (T.K.); (R.R.)
| | - Raghu Ramanathan
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA; (S.K.); (T.K.); (R.R.)
- Harry S. Truman Veterans Hospital, Columbia, MO 65201, USA
| | - Jamal A. Ibdah
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA; (S.K.); (T.K.); (R.R.)
- Harry S. Truman Veterans Hospital, Columbia, MO 65201, USA
- Department of Medical Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: 1-573-882-7349; Fax: 1-573-884-4595
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38
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Wang X, Yang T, Yu Z, Liu T, Jin R, Weng L, Bai Y, Gooding JJ, Zhang Y, Chen X. Intelligent Gold Nanoparticles with Oncogenic MicroRNA-Dependent Activities to Manipulate Tumorigenic Environments for Synergistic Tumor Therapy. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2022; 34:e2110219. [PMID: 35170096 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202110219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Tumorigenic environments, especially aberrantly overexpressed oncogenic microRNAs, play a critical role in various activities of tumor progression. However, developing strategies to effectively utilize and manipulate these oncogenic microRNAs for tumor therapy is still a challenge. To address this challenge, spherical nucleic acids (SNAs) consisting of gold nanoparticles in the core and antisense oligonucleotides as the shell are fabricated. Hybridized to the oligonucleotide shell is a DNA sequence to which doxorubicin is conjugated (DNA-DOX). The oligonucleotides shell is designed to capture overexpressed miR-21/miR-155 and inhibit the expression of these oncogenic miRNAs in tumor cells after tumor accumulation to manipulate genetic environment for accurate gene therapy. This process further induces the aggregation of these SNAs, which not only generates photothermal agents to achieve on-demand photothermal therapy in situ, but also enlarges the size of SNAs to enhance the retention time in the tumor for sustained therapy. The capture of the relevant miRNAs simultaneously triggers the intracellular release of the DNA-DOX from the SNAs to deliver tumor-specific chemotherapy. Both in vivo and in vitro results indicate that this combination strategy has excellent tumor inhibition properties with high survival rate of tumor-bearing mice, and can thus be a promising candidate for effective tumor treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangdong Wang
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Energy Chemical Process Intensification, Institute of Polymer Science in Chemical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Xi'an Jiao Tong University, Xi'an, 710049, P. R. China
| | - Tianfeng Yang
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, P. R. China
| | - Zhi Yu
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Energy Chemical Process Intensification, Institute of Polymer Science in Chemical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Xi'an Jiao Tong University, Xi'an, 710049, P. R. China
| | - Tao Liu
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Energy Chemical Process Intensification, Institute of Polymer Science in Chemical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Xi'an Jiao Tong University, Xi'an, 710049, P. R. China
| | - Ronghua Jin
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Energy Chemical Process Intensification, Institute of Polymer Science in Chemical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Xi'an Jiao Tong University, Xi'an, 710049, P. R. China
| | - Lin Weng
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Energy Chemical Process Intensification, Institute of Polymer Science in Chemical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Xi'an Jiao Tong University, Xi'an, 710049, P. R. China
| | - Yongkang Bai
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Energy Chemical Process Intensification, Institute of Polymer Science in Chemical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Xi'an Jiao Tong University, Xi'an, 710049, P. R. China
| | - J Justin Gooding
- School of Chemistry and Australian Centre for NanoMedicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, 2052, Australia
| | - Yanmin Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, P. R. China
| | - Xin Chen
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Energy Chemical Process Intensification, Institute of Polymer Science in Chemical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Xi'an Jiao Tong University, Xi'an, 710049, P. R. China
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39
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Wonnacott A, Denby L, Coward RJM, Fraser DJ, Bowen T. MicroRNAs and their delivery in diabetic fibrosis. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2022; 182:114045. [PMID: 34767865 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.114045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Revised: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The global prevalence of diabetes mellitus was estimated to be 463 million people in 2019 and is predicted to rise to 700 million by 2045. The associated financial and societal costs of this burgeoning epidemic demand an understanding of the pathology of this disease, and its complications, that will inform treatment to enable improved patient outcomes. Nearly two decades after the sequencing of the human genome, the significance of noncoding RNA expression is still being assessed. The family of functional noncoding RNAs known as microRNAs regulates the expression of most genes encoded by the human genome. Altered microRNA expression profiles have been observed both in diabetes and in diabetic complications. These transcripts therefore have significant potential and novelty as targets for therapy, therapeutic agents and biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexa Wonnacott
- Wales Kidney Research Unit, Division of Infection & Immunity, School of Medicine, College of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Cardiff University, Heath Park, Cardiff CF14 4XN, UK
| | - Laura Denby
- Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Richard J M Coward
- Bristol Renal, Dorothy Hodgkin Building, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol BS1 3NY, UK
| | - Donald J Fraser
- Wales Kidney Research Unit, Division of Infection & Immunity, School of Medicine, College of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Cardiff University, Heath Park, Cardiff CF14 4XN, UK
| | - Timothy Bowen
- Wales Kidney Research Unit, Division of Infection & Immunity, School of Medicine, College of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Cardiff University, Heath Park, Cardiff CF14 4XN, UK.
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40
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Takegawa-Araki T, Kumagai S, Yasukawa K, Kuroda M, Sasaki T, Obika S. Structure-Activity Relationships of Anti-microRNA Oligonucleotides Containing Cationic Guanidine-Modified Nucleic Acids. J Med Chem 2022; 65:2139-2148. [PMID: 35084859 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c01680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Anti-microRNA oligonucleotides (AMOs) are valuable tools for the treatment of diseases caused by the dysregulation of microRNA expression. However, the correlation between chemical modifications in AMO sequences and the microRNA-inhibitory activity has not been fully elucidated. In this study, we synthesized a series of AMOs containing cationic guanidine-bridged nucleic acids (GuNA) and evaluated their activities using a dual luciferase assay. We also optimized the site of GuNA substitution and found an effective design for the inhibition of microRNA-21, which was partially different from that of conventional nucleic acid derivatives. This study showed that GuNA-substituted AMOs are effective in inhibiting the function of microRNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomo Takegawa-Araki
- Sohyaku, Innovative Research Division, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation, Muraoka-Higashi, Fujisawa, Kanagawa 251-8555, Japan
| | - Shinji Kumagai
- Sohyaku, Innovative Research Division, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation, Muraoka-Higashi, Fujisawa, Kanagawa 251-8555, Japan
| | - Kai Yasukawa
- Sohyaku, Innovative Research Division, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation, Muraoka-Higashi, Fujisawa, Kanagawa 251-8555, Japan
| | - Masataka Kuroda
- Sohyaku, Innovative Research Division, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation, Muraoka-Higashi, Fujisawa, Kanagawa 251-8555, Japan.,National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, Health and Nutrition (NIBIOHN), 7-6-8 Saito-Asagi, Ibaraki, Osaka 567-0085, Japan
| | - Takashi Sasaki
- Sohyaku, Innovative Research Division, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation, Muraoka-Higashi, Fujisawa, Kanagawa 251-8555, Japan
| | - Satoshi Obika
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, 1-6 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan.,National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, Health and Nutrition (NIBIOHN), 7-6-8 Saito-Asagi, Ibaraki, Osaka 567-0085, Japan
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41
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Quemener AM, Centomo ML, Sax SL, Panella R. Small Drugs, Huge Impact: The Extraordinary Impact of Antisense Oligonucleotides in Research and Drug Development. Molecules 2022; 27:536. [PMID: 35056851 PMCID: PMC8781596 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27020536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) are an increasingly represented class of drugs. These small sequences of nucleotides are designed to precisely target other oligonucleotides, usually RNA species, and are modified to protect them from degradation by nucleases. Their specificity is due to their sequence, so it is possible to target any RNA sequence that is already known. These molecules are very versatile and adaptable given that their sequence and chemistry can be custom manufactured. Based on the chemistry being used, their activity may significantly change and their effects on cell function and phenotypes can differ dramatically. While some will cause the target RNA to decay, others will only bind to the target and act as a steric blocker. Their incredible versatility is the key to manipulating several aspects of nucleic acid function as well as their process, and alter the transcriptome profile of a specific cell type or tissue. For example, they can be used to modify splicing or mask specific sites on a target. The entire design rather than just the sequence is essential to ensuring the specificity of the ASO to its target. Thus, it is vitally important to ensure that the complete process of drug design and testing is taken into account. ASOs' adaptability is a considerable advantage, and over the past decades has allowed multiple new drugs to be approved. This, in turn, has had a significant and positive impact on patient lives. Given current challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, it is necessary to find new therapeutic strategies that would complement the vaccination efforts being used across the globe. ASOs may be a very powerful tool that can be used to target the virus RNA and provide a therapeutic paradigm. The proof of the efficacy of ASOs as an anti-viral agent is long-standing, yet no molecule currently has FDA approval. The emergence and widespread use of RNA vaccines during this health crisis might provide an ideal opportunity to develop the first anti-viral ASOs on the market. In this review, we describe the story of ASOs, the different characteristics of their chemistry, and how their characteristics translate into research and as a clinical tool.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anais M. Quemener
- University Rennes, CNRS, IGDR (Institute of Genetics and Development of Rennes)-UMR 6290, F-35000 Rennes, France;
| | - Maria Laura Centomo
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, 10124 Turin, Italy;
- Center for Genomic Medicine, Desert Research Institute, Reno, NV 89512, USA;
| | - Scott L. Sax
- Center for Genomic Medicine, Desert Research Institute, Reno, NV 89512, USA;
| | - Riccardo Panella
- Center for Genomic Medicine, Desert Research Institute, Reno, NV 89512, USA;
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42
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Zeni A, Grasso M, Denti MA. Identification of miRNAs Bound to an RNA of Interest by MicroRNA Capture Affinity Technology (miR-CATCH). Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2404:207-218. [PMID: 34694611 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-1851-6_11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
microRNA capture affinity technology (miR-CATCH) uses affinity capture biotinylated antisense oligonucleotides to co-purify a target transcript together with all its endogenously bound miRNAs. The miR-CATCH assay is performed to investigate miRNAs bound to a specific mRNA. This method allows to have a total vision of miRNAs bound not only to the 3'UTR but also to the 5'UTR and Coding Region of target messenger RNAs (mRNAs).
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Zeni
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology-CIBIO, University of Trento, Trento, Italy
- Istituto Rainerum-SDB, Bolzano, Italy
| | - Margherita Grasso
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology-CIBIO, University of Trento, Trento, Italy
- L.N.Age Srl-Link Neuroscience and Healthcare, Pomezia (RM), Italy
| | - Michela A Denti
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology-CIBIO, University of Trento, Trento, Italy.
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43
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Zhou H, Tang W, Yang J, Peng J, Guo J, Fan C. MicroRNA-Related Strategies to Improve Cardiac Function in Heart Failure. Front Cardiovasc Med 2021; 8:773083. [PMID: 34869689 PMCID: PMC8639862 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2021.773083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Heart failure (HF) describes a group of manifestations caused by the failure of heart function as a pump that supports blood flow through the body. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), as one type of non-coding RNA molecule, have crucial roles in the etiology of HF. Accordingly, miRNAs related to HF may represent potential novel therapeutic targets. In this review, we first discuss the different roles of miRNAs in the development and diseases of the heart. We then outline commonly used miRNA chemical modifications and delivery systems. Further, we summarize the opportunities and challenges for HF-related miRNA therapeutics targets, and discuss the first clinical trial of an antisense drug (CDR132L) in patients with HF. Finally, we outline current and future challenges and potential new directions for miRNA-based therapeutics for HF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huatao Zhou
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Weijie Tang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jinfu Yang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Department of Pharmacology, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jun Peng
- Department of Pharmacology, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jianjun Guo
- Hunan Fangsheng Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. Changsha, China
| | - Chengming Fan
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Department of Pharmacology, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Hunan Fangsheng Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. Changsha, China
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44
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Novel approaches in cancer treatment: preclinical and clinical development of small non-coding RNA therapeutics. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2021; 40:383. [PMID: 34863235 PMCID: PMC8642961 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-021-02193-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Short or small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) and microRNA (miRNAs) are molecules similar in size and function able to inhibit gene expression based on their complementarity with mRNA sequences, inducing the degradation of the transcript or the inhibition of their translation. siRNAs bind specifically to a single gene location by sequence complementarity and regulate gene expression by specifically targeting transcription units via posttranscriptional gene silencing. miRNAs can regulate the expression of different gene targets through their imperfect base pairing. This process - known as RNA interference (RNAi) - modulates transcription in order to maintain a correct physiological environment, playing a role in almost the totality of the cellular pathways. siRNAs have been evolutionary evolved for the protection of genome integrity in response to exogenous and invasive nucleic acids such as transgenes or transposons. Artificial siRNAs are widely used in molecular biology for transient silencing of genes of interest. This strategy allows to inhibit the expression of any target protein of known sequence and is currently used for the treatment of different human diseases including cancer. Modifications and rearrangements in gene regions encoding for miRNAs have been found in cancer cells, and specific miRNA expression profiles characterize the developmental lineage and the differentiation state of the tumor. miRNAs with different expression patterns in tumors have been reported as oncogenes (oncomirs) or tumor-suppressors (anti-oncomirs). RNA modulation has become important in cancer research not only for development of early and easy diagnosis tools but also as a promising novel therapeutic approach. Despite the emerging discoveries supporting the role of miRNAs in carcinogenesis and their and siRNAs possible use in therapy, a series of concerns regarding their development, delivery and side effects have arisen. In this review we report the biology of miRNAs and siRNAs in relation to cancer summarizing the recent methods described to use them as novel therapeutic drugs and methods to specifically deliver them to cancer cells and overcome the limitations in the use of these molecules.
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Holgersen EM, Gandhi S, Zhou Y, Kim J, Vaz B, Bogojeski J, Bugno M, Shalev Z, Cheung-Ong K, Gonçalves J, O'Hara M, Kron K, Verby M, Sun M, Kakaradov B, Delong A, Merico D, Deshwar AG. Transcriptome-Wide Off-Target Effects of Steric-Blocking Oligonucleotides. Nucleic Acid Ther 2021; 31:392-403. [PMID: 34388351 PMCID: PMC8713556 DOI: 10.1089/nat.2020.0921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Steric-blocking oligonucleotides (SBOs) are short, single-stranded nucleic acids designed to modulate gene expression by binding to RNA transcripts and blocking access from cellular machinery such as splicing factors. SBOs have the potential to bind to near-complementary sites in the transcriptome, causing off-target effects. In this study, we used RNA-seq to evaluate the off-target differential splicing events of 81 SBOs and differential expression events of 46 SBOs. Our results suggest that differential splicing events are predominantly hybridization driven, whereas differential expression events are more common and driven by other mechanisms (including spurious experimental variation). We further evaluated the performance of in silico screens for off-target splicing events, and found an edit distance cutoff of three to result in a sensitivity of 14% and false discovery rate (FDR) of 99%. A machine learning model incorporating splicing predictions substantially improved the ability to prioritize low edit distance hits, increasing sensitivity from 4% to 26% at a fixed FDR of 90%. Despite these large improvements in performance, this approach does not detect the majority of events at an FDR <99%. Our results suggest that in silico methods are currently of limited use for predicting the off-target effects of SBOs, and experimental screening by RNA-seq should be the preferred approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erle M. Holgersen
- Deep Genomics, Inc., Toronto,
Canada
- This article was previously published in bioRxiv, Preprint DOI: https://doi.org/10.1101/2020.09.03.281667
| | - Shreshth Gandhi
- Deep Genomics, Inc., Toronto,
Canada
- This article was previously published in bioRxiv, Preprint DOI: https://doi.org/10.1101/2020.09.03.281667
| | - Yongchao Zhou
- Deep Genomics, Inc., Toronto,
Canada
- This article was previously published in bioRxiv, Preprint DOI: https://doi.org/10.1101/2020.09.03.281667
| | - Jinkuk Kim
- Deep Genomics, Inc., Toronto,
Canada
- Graduate School of Medical Science and
Engineering, KAIST, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- This article was previously published in bioRxiv, Preprint DOI: https://doi.org/10.1101/2020.09.03.281667
| | - Brandon Vaz
- Deep Genomics, Inc., Toronto,
Canada
- This article was previously published in bioRxiv, Preprint DOI: https://doi.org/10.1101/2020.09.03.281667
| | - Jovanka Bogojeski
- Deep Genomics, Inc., Toronto,
Canada
- Providence Therapeutics, Toronto,
Canada
- This article was previously published in bioRxiv, Preprint DOI: https://doi.org/10.1101/2020.09.03.281667
| | - Magdalena Bugno
- Deep Genomics, Inc., Toronto,
Canada
- The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto,
Canada
- This article was previously published in bioRxiv, Preprint DOI: https://doi.org/10.1101/2020.09.03.281667
| | - Zvi Shalev
- Deep Genomics, Inc., Toronto,
Canada
- This article was previously published in bioRxiv, Preprint DOI: https://doi.org/10.1101/2020.09.03.281667
| | - Kahlin Cheung-Ong
- Deep Genomics, Inc., Toronto,
Canada
- This article was previously published in bioRxiv, Preprint DOI: https://doi.org/10.1101/2020.09.03.281667
| | - João Gonçalves
- Deep Genomics, Inc., Toronto,
Canada
- This article was previously published in bioRxiv, Preprint DOI: https://doi.org/10.1101/2020.09.03.281667
| | - Matthew O'Hara
- Deep Genomics, Inc., Toronto,
Canada
- This article was previously published in bioRxiv, Preprint DOI: https://doi.org/10.1101/2020.09.03.281667
| | - Ken Kron
- Deep Genomics, Inc., Toronto,
Canada
- This article was previously published in bioRxiv, Preprint DOI: https://doi.org/10.1101/2020.09.03.281667
| | - Marta Verby
- Deep Genomics, Inc., Toronto,
Canada
- This article was previously published in bioRxiv, Preprint DOI: https://doi.org/10.1101/2020.09.03.281667
| | - Mark Sun
- Deep Genomics, Inc., Toronto,
Canada
- This article was previously published in bioRxiv, Preprint DOI: https://doi.org/10.1101/2020.09.03.281667
| | - Boyko Kakaradov
- Deep Genomics, Inc., Toronto,
Canada
- Skyhawk Therapeutics, Waltham,
Massachusetts, USA
- This article was previously published in bioRxiv, Preprint DOI: https://doi.org/10.1101/2020.09.03.281667
| | - Andrew Delong
- Deep Genomics, Inc., Toronto,
Canada
- Department of Computer Science and
Software Engineering, Concordia University, Montreal, Canada
- This article was previously published in bioRxiv, Preprint DOI: https://doi.org/10.1101/2020.09.03.281667
| | - Daniele Merico
- Deep Genomics, Inc., Toronto,
Canada
- This article was previously published in bioRxiv, Preprint DOI: https://doi.org/10.1101/2020.09.03.281667
| | - Amit G. Deshwar
- Deep Genomics, Inc., Toronto,
Canada
- This article was previously published in bioRxiv, Preprint DOI: https://doi.org/10.1101/2020.09.03.281667
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Dhuri K, Gaddam RR, Vikram A, Slack FJ, Bahal R. Therapeutic Potential of Chemically Modified, Synthetic, Triplex Peptide Nucleic Acid-Based Oncomir Inhibitors for Cancer Therapy. Cancer Res 2021; 81:5613-5624. [PMID: 34548334 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-21-0736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2021] [Revised: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
miRNA-155 (miR-155) is overexpressed in various types of lymphomas and leukemias, suggesting that targeting miR-155 could be a potential platform for the development of precision medicine. Here, we tested the anticancer activity of novel, chemically modified, triplex peptide nucleic acid (PNA)-based antimiRs compared with the current state-of-the-art conventional full-length antimiRs. Next-generation modified PNAs that bound miR-155 by Watson-Crick and Hoogsteen domains possessed superior therapeutic efficacy in vivo and ex vivo compared with conventional full-length anti-miR-155. The efficacy of anti-miR-155 targeting in multiple lymphoma cell lines was comprehensively corroborated by gene expression, Western blot analysis, and cell viability-based functional studies. Finally, preclinical testing in vivo in xenograft mouse models containing lymphoma cell lines demonstrated that treatment with the miR-155-targeting next-generation antimiR resulted in a significant decrease in miR-155 expression, followed by reduced tumor growth. These findings support the effective therapeutic application of chemically modified triplex PNAs to target miR-155 to treat lymphoma. Overall, the present proof-of-concept study further implicates the potential for next-generation triplex gamma PNAs to target other miRNAs for treating cancer. SIGNIFICANCE: This study demonstrates the utility of novel oncomiR inhibitors as cancer therapeutics, providing a new approach for targeting miRNAs and other noncoding RNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karishma Dhuri
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut
| | - Ravinder Reddy Gaddam
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Ajit Vikram
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Frank J Slack
- Department of Pathology, HMS Initiative for RNA Medicine, BIDMC Cancer Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Raman Bahal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut.
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47
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Walgrave H, Zhou L, De Strooper B, Salta E. The promise of microRNA-based therapies in Alzheimer's disease: challenges and perspectives. Mol Neurodegener 2021; 16:76. [PMID: 34742333 PMCID: PMC8572071 DOI: 10.1186/s13024-021-00496-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Multi-pathway approaches for the treatment of complex polygenic disorders are emerging as alternatives to classical monotarget therapies and microRNAs are of particular interest in that regard. MicroRNA research has come a long way from their initial discovery to the cumulative appreciation of their regulatory potential in healthy and diseased brain. However, systematic interrogation of putative therapeutic or toxic effects of microRNAs in (models of) Alzheimer's disease is currently missing and fundamental research findings are yet to be translated into clinical applications. Here, we review the literature to summarize the knowledge on microRNA regulation in Alzheimer's pathophysiology and to critically discuss whether and to what extent these increasing insights can be exploited for the development of microRNA-based therapeutics in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Walgrave
- VIB Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven, KU, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Neurosciences, Leuven Brain Institute, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Lujia Zhou
- Division of Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, Discovery Neuroscience, Janssen Research and Development, Beerse, Belgium
| | - Bart De Strooper
- VIB Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven, KU, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Neurosciences, Leuven Brain Institute, Leuven, Belgium
- UK Dementia Research Institute at University College London, London, UK
| | - Evgenia Salta
- Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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48
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Pandey M, Ojha D, Bansal S, Rode AB, Chawla G. From bench side to clinic: Potential and challenges of RNA vaccines and therapeutics in infectious diseases. Mol Aspects Med 2021; 81:101003. [PMID: 34332771 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2021.101003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Revised: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The functional and structural versatility of Ribonucleic acids (RNAs) makes them ideal candidates for overcoming the limitations imposed by small molecule-based drugs. Hence, RNA-based biopharmaceuticals such as messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines, antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), microRNA mimics, anti-miRNA oligonucleotides (AMOs), aptamers, riboswitches, and CRISPR-Cas9 are emerging as vital tools for the treatment and prophylaxis of many infectious diseases. Some of the major challenges to overcome in the area of RNA-based therapeutics have been the instability of single-stranded RNAs, delivery to the diseased cell, and immunogenicity. However, recent advancements in the delivery systems of in vitro transcribed mRNA and chemical modifications for protection against nucleases and reducing the toxicity of RNA have facilitated the entry of several exogenous RNAs into clinical trials. In this review, we provide an overview of RNA-based vaccines and therapeutics, their production, delivery, current advancements, and future translational potential in treating infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manish Pandey
- RNA Biology Laboratory, Regional Centre for Biotechnology, Faridabad, 121001, India
| | - Divya Ojha
- Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, Regional Centre for Biotechnology, Faridabad, 121001, India
| | - Sakshi Bansal
- RNA Biology Laboratory, Regional Centre for Biotechnology, Faridabad, 121001, India
| | - Ambadas B Rode
- Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, Regional Centre for Biotechnology, Faridabad, 121001, India.
| | - Geetanjali Chawla
- RNA Biology Laboratory, Regional Centre for Biotechnology, Faridabad, 121001, India.
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49
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Winkle M, El-Daly SM, Fabbri M, Calin GA. Noncoding RNA therapeutics - challenges and potential solutions. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2021; 20:629-651. [PMID: 34145432 PMCID: PMC8212082 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-021-00219-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 755] [Impact Index Per Article: 251.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Therapeutic targeting of noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs), such as microRNAs (miRNAs) and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), represents an attractive approach for the treatment of cancers, as well as many other diseases. Over the past decade, substantial effort has been made towards the clinical application of RNA-based therapeutics, employing mostly antisense oligonucleotides and small interfering RNAs, with several gaining FDA approval. However, trial results have so far been ambivalent, with some studies reporting potent effects whereas others demonstrated limited efficacy or toxicity. Alternative entities such as antimiRNAs are undergoing clinical testing, and lncRNA-based therapeutics are gaining interest. In this Perspective, we discuss key challenges facing ncRNA therapeutics - including issues associated with specificity, delivery and tolerability - and focus on promising emerging approaches that aim to boost their success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Winkle
- Translational Molecular Pathology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Texas State University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Sherien M El-Daly
- Medical Biochemistry Department, Medical Research Division - Cancer Biology and Genetics Laboratory, Centre of Excellence for Advanced Sciences - National Research Centre, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Muller Fabbri
- Cancer Biology Program, University of Hawaii Cancer Center, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - George A Calin
- Translational Molecular Pathology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Texas State University, Houston, TX, USA.
- The RNA Interference and Non-codingRNA Center, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Texas State University, Houston, TX, USA.
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50
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Liu B, Wang B, Zhang X, Lock R, Nash T, Vunjak-Novakovic G. Cell type-specific microRNA therapies for myocardial infarction. Sci Transl Med 2021; 13:13/580/eabd0914. [PMID: 33568517 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.abd0914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2020] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Current interventions fail to recover injured myocardium after infarction and prompt the need for development of cardioprotective strategies. Of increasing interest is the therapeutic use of microRNAs to control gene expression through specific targeting of mRNAs. In this Review, we discuss current microRNA-based therapeutic strategies, describing the outcomes and limitations of key microRNAs with a focus on target cell types and molecular pathways. Last, we offer a perspective on the outlook of microRNA therapies for myocardial infarction, highlighting the outstanding challenges and emerging strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bohao Liu
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Bryan Wang
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Xiaokan Zhang
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Roberta Lock
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Trevor Nash
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Gordana Vunjak-Novakovic
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA. .,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
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