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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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2
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Shi Y, Zhen X, Zhang Y, Li Y, Koo S, Saiding Q, Kong N, Liu G, Chen W, Tao W. Chemically Modified Platforms for Better RNA Therapeutics. Chem Rev 2024; 124:929-1033. [PMID: 38284616 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.3c00611] [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: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
RNA-based therapies have catalyzed a revolutionary transformation in the biomedical landscape, offering unprecedented potential in disease prevention and treatment. However, despite their remarkable achievements, these therapies encounter substantial challenges including low stability, susceptibility to degradation by nucleases, and a prominent negative charge, thereby hindering further development. Chemically modified platforms have emerged as a strategic innovation, focusing on precise alterations either on the RNA moieties or their associated delivery vectors. This comprehensive review delves into these platforms, underscoring their significance in augmenting the performance and translational prospects of RNA-based therapeutics. It encompasses an in-depth analysis of various chemically modified delivery platforms that have been instrumental in propelling RNA therapeutics toward clinical utility. Moreover, the review scrutinizes the rationale behind diverse chemical modification techniques aiming at optimizing the therapeutic efficacy of RNA molecules, thereby facilitating robust disease management. Recent empirical studies corroborating the efficacy enhancement of RNA therapeutics through chemical modifications are highlighted. Conclusively, we offer profound insights into the transformative impact of chemical modifications on RNA drugs and delineates prospective trajectories for their future development and clinical integration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yesi Shi
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- State Key Laboratory of Vaccines for Infectious Diseases, Xiang An Biomedicine Laboratory, National Innovation Platform for Industry-Education Integration in Vaccine Research, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, Center for Molecular Imaging and Translational Medicine, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Xueyan Zhen
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Yiming Zhang
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Yongjiang Li
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Seyoung Koo
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Qimanguli Saiding
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Na Kong
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Gang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Vaccines for Infectious Diseases, Xiang An Biomedicine Laboratory, National Innovation Platform for Industry-Education Integration in Vaccine Research, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, Center for Molecular Imaging and Translational Medicine, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Wei Chen
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- Genomics Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei 11529, Taiwan
| | - Wei Tao
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
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3
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Lessl AL, Pöhmerer J, Lin Y, Wilk U, Höhn M, Hörterer E, Wagner E, Lächelt U. mCherry on Top: A Positive Read-Out Cellular Platform for Screening DMD Exon Skipping Xenopeptide-PMO Conjugates. Bioconjug Chem 2023; 34:2263-2274. [PMID: 37991502 PMCID: PMC10739591 DOI: 10.1021/acs.bioconjchem.3c00408] [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: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
Phosphorodiamidate morpholino oligomers (PMOs) are a special type of antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) that can be used as therapeutic modulators of pre-mRNA splicing. Application of nucleic-acid-based therapeutics generally requires suitable delivery systems to enable efficient transport to intended tissues and intracellular targets. To identify potent formulations of PMOs, we established a new in vitro-in vivo screening platform based on mdx exon 23 skipping. Here, a new in vitro positive read-out system (mCherry-DMDEx23) is presented that is sensitive toward the PMO(Ex23) sequence mediating DMD exon 23 skipping and, in this model, functional mCherry expression. After establishment of the reporter system in HeLa cells, a set of amphiphilic, ionizable xenopeptides (XPs) was screened in order to identify potent carriers for PMO delivery. The identified best-performing PMO formulation with high splice-switching activity at nanomolar concentrations in vitro was then translated to in vivo trials, where exon 23 skipping in different organs of healthy BALB/c mice was confirmed. The predesigned in vitro-in vivo workflow enables evaluation of PMO(Ex23) carriers without change of the PMO sequence and formulation composition. Furthermore, the identified PMO-XP conjugate formulation was found to induce highly potent exon skipping in vitro and redistributed PMO activity in different organs in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna-Lina Lessl
- Pharmaceutical
Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy, LMU
Munich, Butenandtstrasse 5-13, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Jana Pöhmerer
- Pharmaceutical
Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy, LMU
Munich, Butenandtstrasse 5-13, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Yi Lin
- Pharmaceutical
Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy, LMU
Munich, Butenandtstrasse 5-13, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Ulrich Wilk
- Pharmaceutical
Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy, LMU
Munich, Butenandtstrasse 5-13, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Miriam Höhn
- Pharmaceutical
Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy, LMU
Munich, Butenandtstrasse 5-13, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Elisa Hörterer
- Pharmaceutical
Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy, LMU
Munich, Butenandtstrasse 5-13, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Ernst Wagner
- Pharmaceutical
Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy, LMU
Munich, Butenandtstrasse 5-13, 81377 Munich, Germany
- Center
for NanoScience (CeNS), LMU Munich, 80799 Munich, Germany
| | - Ulrich Lächelt
- Pharmaceutical
Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy, LMU
Munich, Butenandtstrasse 5-13, 81377 Munich, Germany
- Center
for NanoScience (CeNS), LMU Munich, 80799 Munich, Germany
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of
Vienna, Josef-Holaubek-Platz 2, 1090 Vienna, Austria
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4
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Nguyen J, Le Q, Win PW, Hill KA, Singh SM, Castellani CA. Decoding mitochondrial-nuclear (epi)genome interactions: the emerging role of ncRNAs. Epigenomics 2023; 15:1121-1136. [PMID: 38031736 DOI: 10.2217/epi-2023-0322] [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] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Bidirectional communication between the mitochondria and the nucleus is required for several physiological processes, and the nuclear epigenome is a key mediator of this relationship. ncRNAs are an emerging area of discussion for their roles in cellular function and regulation. In this review, we highlight the role of mitochondrial-encoded ncRNAs as mediators of communication between the mitochondria and the nuclear genome. We focus primarily on retrograde signaling, a process in which the mitochondrion relays ncRNAs to translate environmental stress signals to changes in nuclear gene expression, with implications on stress responses that may include disease(s). Other biological roles of mitochondrial-encoded ncRNAs, such as mitochondrial import of proteins and regulation of cell signaling, will also be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Nguyen
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, N6A 3K7, Canada
| | - Quinn Le
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, N6A 3K7, Canada
| | - Phyo W Win
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, N6A 3K7, Canada
| | - Kathleen A Hill
- Department of Biology, Western University, London, ON, N6A 3K7, Canada
| | - Shiva M Singh
- Department of Biology, Western University, London, ON, N6A 3K7, Canada
- Children's Health Research Institute, Lawson Research Institute, London, ON, N6C 2R5, Canada
| | - Christina A Castellani
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, N6A 3K7, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, N6A 3K7, Canada
- Children's Health Research Institute, Lawson Research Institute, London, ON, N6C 2R5, Canada
- McKusick-Nathans Institute, Department of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
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5
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Haque US, Yokota T. Enhancing Antisense Oligonucleotide-Based Therapeutic Delivery with DG9, a Versatile Cell-Penetrating Peptide. Cells 2023; 12:2395. [PMID: 37830609 PMCID: PMC10572411 DOI: 10.3390/cells12192395] [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: 08/26/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Antisense oligonucleotide-based (ASO) therapeutics have emerged as a promising strategy for the treatment of human disorders. Charge-neutral PMOs have promising biological and pharmacological properties for antisense applications. Despite their great potential, the efficient delivery of these therapeutic agents to target cells remains a major obstacle to their widespread use. Cellular uptake of naked PMO is poor. Cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) appear as a possibility to increase the cellular uptake and intracellular delivery of oligonucleotide-based drugs. Among these, the DG9 peptide has been identified as a versatile CPP with remarkable potential for enhancing the delivery of ASO-based therapeutics due to its unique structural features. Notably, in the context of phosphorodiamidate morpholino oligomers (PMOs), DG9 has shown promise in enhancing delivery while maintaining a favorable toxicity profile. A few studies have highlighted the potential of DG9-conjugated PMOs in DMD (Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy) and SMA (Spinal Muscular Atrophy), displaying significant exon skipping/inclusion and functional improvements in animal models. The article provides an overview of a detailed understanding of the challenges that ASOs face prior to reaching their targets and continued advances in methods to improve their delivery to target sites and cellular uptake, focusing on DG9, which aims to harness ASOs' full potential in precision medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Umme Sabrina Haque
- Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2H7, Canada
- 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
- The Friends of Garrett Cumming Research & Muscular Dystrophy Canada HM Toupin Neurological Science Research, Edmonton, AB T6G 2H7, Canada
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6
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Therapeutic strategies for autism: targeting three levels of the central dogma of molecular biology. Transl Psychiatry 2023; 13:58. [PMID: 36792602 PMCID: PMC9931756 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-023-02356-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The past decade has yielded much success in the identification of risk genes for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), with many studies implicating loss-of-function (LoF) mutations within these genes. Despite this, no significant clinical advances have been made so far in the development of therapeutics for ASD. Given the role of LoF mutations in ASD etiology, many of the therapeutics in development are designed to rescue the haploinsufficient effect of genes at the transcriptional, translational, and protein levels. This review will discuss the various therapeutic techniques being developed from each level of the central dogma with examples including: CRISPR activation (CRISPRa) and gene replacement at the DNA level, antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) at the mRNA level, and small-molecule drugs at the protein level, followed by a review of current delivery methods for these therapeutics. Since central nervous system (CNS) penetrance is of utmost importance for ASD therapeutics, it is especially necessary to evaluate delivery methods that have higher efficiency in crossing the blood-brain barrier (BBB).
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7
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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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8
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Microflow LC-MS/MS to improve sensitivity for antisense oligonucleotides bioanalysis: critical role of sample cleanness. Bioanalysis 2022; 14:1365-1376. [PMID: 36625771 DOI: 10.4155/bio-2022-0201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Quantitative bioanalysis of antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) is crucial to study their pharmacokinetic properties. An ultrasensitive bioanalytical method is often desired for quantifying low-concentration ASOs. Results: Effects of microflow LC and sample cleanness on sensitivity improvement of ASOs were evaluated. Sixfold sensitivity improvement of ASO-001 was achieved using microflow LC-MS/MS compared with conventional analytical flow method. Different sample extracts (hybridization, SPE and protein precipitation) were evaluated for sensitivity improvement by microflow LC. More sensitivity improvement was observed in the cleaner sample extract. Conclusion: Microflow LC increases sensitivity for ASO bioanalysis. The cleaner the sample extract, the better the sensitivity improvement. An ultrasensitive hybridization microflow LC-MS/MS method with lower limit of quantification of 0.100 ng/ml was developed and qualified for quantifying ASO-001 in plasma.
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9
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Saifullah, Motohashi N, Tsukahara T, Aoki Y. Development of Therapeutic RNA Manipulation for Muscular Dystrophy. Front Genome Ed 2022; 4:863651. [PMID: 35620642 PMCID: PMC9127466 DOI: 10.3389/fgeed.2022.863651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Approval of therapeutic RNA molecules, including RNA vaccines, has paved the way for next-generation treatment strategies for various diseases. Oligonucleotide-based therapeutics hold particular promise for treating incurable muscular dystrophies, including Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). DMD is a severe monogenic disease triggered by deletions, duplications, or point mutations in the DMD gene, which encodes a membrane-linked cytoskeletal protein to protect muscle fibers from contraction-induced injury. Patients with DMD inevitably succumb to muscle degeneration and atrophy early in life, leading to premature death from cardiac and respiratory failure. Thus far, the disease has thwarted all curative strategies. Transcriptomic manipulation, employing exon skipping using antisense oligonucleotides (ASO), has made significant progress in the search for DMD therapeutics. Several exon-skipping drugs employing RNA manipulation technology have been approved by regulatory agencies and have shown promise in clinical trials. This review summarizes recent scientific and clinical progress of ASO and other novel RNA manipulations, including RNA-based editing using MS2 coat protein-conjugated adenosine deaminase acting on the RNA (MCP-ADAR) system illustrating the efficacy and limitations of therapies to restore dystrophin. Perhaps lessons from this review will encourage the application of RNA-editing therapy to other neuromuscular disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saifullah
- Department of Molecular Therapy, National Institute of Neuroscience, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry (NCNP), Tokyo, Japan
| | - Norio Motohashi
- Department of Molecular Therapy, National Institute of Neuroscience, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry (NCNP), Tokyo, Japan
| | - Toshifumi Tsukahara
- Area of Bioscience and Biotechnology, School of Materials Science, Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (JAIST), Ishikawa, Japan
- Division of Transdisciplinary Science, Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (JAIST), Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Yoshitsugu Aoki
- Department of Molecular Therapy, National Institute of Neuroscience, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry (NCNP), Tokyo, Japan
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10
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Jiang H, Zhang Z, Yu Y, Chu HY, Yu S, Yao S, Zhang G, Zhang BT. Drug Discovery of DKK1 Inhibitors. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:847387. [PMID: 35355709 PMCID: PMC8959454 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.847387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Dickkopf-1 (DKK1) is a well-characterized Wnt inhibitor and component of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, whose dysregulation is associated with multiple abnormal pathologies including osteoporosis, Alzheimer's disease, diabetes, and various cancers. The Wnt signaling pathway has fundamental roles in cell fate determination, cell proliferation, and survival; thus, its mis-regulation can lead to disease. Although DKK1 is involved in other signaling pathways, including the β-catenin-independent Wnt pathway and the DKK1/CKAP4 pathway, the inhibition of DKK1 to propagate Wnt/β-catenin signals has been validated as an effective way to treat related diseases. In fact, strategies for developing DKK1 inhibitors have produced encouraging clinical results in different pathological models, and many publications provide detailed information about these inhibitors, which include small molecules, antibodies, and nucleic acids, and may function at the protein or mRNA level. However, no systematic review has yet provided an overview of the various aspects of their development and prospects. Therefore, we review the DKK1 inhibitors currently available or under study and provide an outlook on future studies involving DKK1 and drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hewen Jiang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.,Guangdong-Hong Kong Macao Greater Bay Area International Research Platform for Aptamer-Based Translational Medicine and Drug Discovery, Hong Kong, China
| | - Zongkang Zhang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.,Guangdong-Hong Kong Macao Greater Bay Area International Research Platform for Aptamer-Based Translational Medicine and Drug Discovery, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yuanyuan Yu
- Guangdong-Hong Kong Macao Greater Bay Area International Research Platform for Aptamer-Based Translational Medicine and Drug Discovery, Hong Kong, China.,Law Sau Fai Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone and Joint Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China.,Institute of Integrated Bioinformedicine and Translational Science, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Hang Yin Chu
- School of Chinese Medicine, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.,Guangdong-Hong Kong Macao Greater Bay Area International Research Platform for Aptamer-Based Translational Medicine and Drug Discovery, Hong Kong, China
| | - Sifan Yu
- Guangdong-Hong Kong Macao Greater Bay Area International Research Platform for Aptamer-Based Translational Medicine and Drug Discovery, Hong Kong, China.,Law Sau Fai Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone and Joint Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China.,Institute of Integrated Bioinformedicine and Translational Science, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Shanshan Yao
- School of Chinese Medicine, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.,Guangdong-Hong Kong Macao Greater Bay Area International Research Platform for Aptamer-Based Translational Medicine and Drug Discovery, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ge Zhang
- Guangdong-Hong Kong Macao Greater Bay Area International Research Platform for Aptamer-Based Translational Medicine and Drug Discovery, Hong Kong, China.,Law Sau Fai Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone and Joint Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China.,Institute of Integrated Bioinformedicine and Translational Science, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Bao-Ting Zhang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.,Guangdong-Hong Kong Macao Greater Bay Area International Research Platform for Aptamer-Based Translational Medicine and Drug Discovery, Hong Kong, China
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11
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Zhang C, Ma Y, Zhang J, Kuo JCT, Zhang Z, Xie H, Zhu J, Liu T. Modification of Lipid-Based Nanoparticles: An Efficient Delivery System for Nucleic Acid-Based Immunotherapy. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27061943. [PMID: 35335310 PMCID: PMC8949521 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27061943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Lipid-based nanoparticles (LBNPs) are biocompatible and biodegradable vesicles that are considered to be one of the most efficient drug delivery platforms. Due to the prominent advantages, such as long circulation time, slow drug release, reduced toxicity, high transfection efficiency, and endosomal escape capacity, such synthetic nanoparticles have been widely used for carrying genetic therapeutics, particularly nucleic acids that can be applied in the treatment for various diseases, including congenital diseases, cancers, virus infections, and chronic inflammations. Despite great merits and multiple successful applications, many extracellular and intracellular barriers remain and greatly impair delivery efficacy and therapeutic outcomes. As such, the current state of knowledge and pitfalls regarding the gene delivery and construction of LBNPs will be initially summarized. In order to develop a new generation of LBNPs for improved delivery profiles and therapeutic effects, the modification strategies of LBNPs will be reviewed. On the basis of these developed modifications, the performance of LBNPs as therapeutic nanoplatforms have been greatly improved and extensively applied in immunotherapies, including infectious diseases and cancers. However, the therapeutic applications of LBNPs systems are still limited due to the undesirable endosomal escape, potential aggregation, and the inefficient encapsulation of therapeutics. Herein, we will review and discuss recent advances and remaining challenges in the development of LBNPs for nucleic acid-based immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chi Zhang
- College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; (C.Z.); (J.C.-T.K.); (Z.Z.)
| | - Yifan Ma
- William G. Lowrie Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; (Y.M.); (J.Z.)
| | - Jingjing Zhang
- William G. Lowrie Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; (Y.M.); (J.Z.)
| | - Jimmy Chun-Tien Kuo
- College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; (C.Z.); (J.C.-T.K.); (Z.Z.)
| | - Zhongkun Zhang
- College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; (C.Z.); (J.C.-T.K.); (Z.Z.)
| | - Haotian Xie
- Department of Statistics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA;
| | - Jing Zhu
- College of Nursing and Health Innovation, The University of Texas Arlington, Arlington, TX 76010, USA
- Correspondence: (J.Z.); (T.L.); Tel.: +1-614-570-1164 (J.Z.); +86-186-6501-3854 (T.L.)
| | - Tongzheng Liu
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China
- Correspondence: (J.Z.); (T.L.); Tel.: +1-614-570-1164 (J.Z.); +86-186-6501-3854 (T.L.)
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12
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Abstract
Osteosarcoma (OS) is the most common primary malignant bone tumor, which usually occurs in children and adolescents. It is generally a high-grade malignancy presenting with extreme metastases to the lungs or other bones. The etiology of the disease is multifaceted and still remains obscure. A combination of surgery and chemotherapy has played a major role in the treatment of OS over the past three decades, and consequently, the overall survival rates for the disease have remained unchanged. Therefore, there is an urgent need to employ new comprehensive analyses and technologies to develop significantly more informative classification systems, with the aim of developing more effective and less toxic therapies for OS patients. This review discusses the existing knowledge of OS therapy and potential methods to develop novel therapeutic agents for the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emel Rothzerg
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Abigail L Pfaff
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Murdoch University, Perth, WA 6150, Australia
| | - Sulev Koks
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Murdoch University, Perth, WA 6150, Australia
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13
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Edelmann MR, Husser C, Duschmalé MB, Fischer G, Senn C, Koller E, Brink A. Tritium labeling of antisense oligonucleotides via different conjugation agents. AAPS OPEN 2021. [DOI: 10.1186/s41120-021-00040-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractA novel approach to tritium-labeled antisense oligonucleotides (ASO) was established by conjugating N-succinimidyl propionate, as well as maleimide-derivatives, to the 3′-end of ASOs targeting metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (Malat1) containing amino- or sulfhydryl-linkers. In vitro stability and Malat1 RNA reduction studies demonstrated that N-ethylmaleimide (NEM) could be used as a stable tag while maintaining the desired target interaction. The corresponding radioactive label conjugation using [3H]-NEM resulted in tritium-labeled ASOs with a high molar specific activity of up to 17 Ci/mmol. Single-dose in vivo studies in mice were carried out to compare [3H]-ASOs with their unlabeled counterpart ASOs, with and without conjugation to N-acetylgalactosamine (GalNAc), for tissue and plasma concentrations time profiles. Despite the structural modification of the labeled ASOs, in vitro target interaction and in vivo pharmacokinetic behaviors were similar to that of the unlabeled ASOs. In conclusion, this new method provides a powerful technique for fast and safe access to tritium-labeled oligonucleotides, e.g., for pharmacokinetic, mass balance, or autoradiography studies.
Graphical abstract
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14
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Liu J, Guo ZN, Yan XL, Yang Y, Huang S. Brain Pathogenesis and Potential Therapeutic Strategies in Myotonic Dystrophy Type 1. Front Aging Neurosci 2021; 13:755392. [PMID: 34867280 PMCID: PMC8634727 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2021.755392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) is the most common muscular dystrophy that affects multiple systems including the muscle and heart. The mutant CTG expansion at the 3′-UTR of the DMPK gene causes the expression of toxic RNA that aggregate as nuclear foci. The foci then interfere with RNA-binding proteins, affecting hundreds of mis-spliced effector genes, leading to aberrant alternative splicing and loss of effector gene product functions, ultimately resulting in systemic disorders. In recent years, increasing clinical, imaging, and pathological evidence have indicated that DM1, though to a lesser extent, could also be recognized as true brain diseases, with more and more researchers dedicating to develop novel therapeutic tools dealing with it. In this review, we summarize the current advances in the pathogenesis and pathology of central nervous system (CNS) deficits in DM1, intervention measures currently being investigated are also highlighted, aiming to promote novel and cutting-edge therapeutic investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Liu
- Department of Neurology, Stroke Center & Clinical Trial and Research Center for Stroke, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- China National Comprehensive Stroke Center, Changchun, China
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Cerebrovascular Disease, Changchun, China
| | - Zhen-Ni Guo
- Department of Neurology, Stroke Center & Clinical Trial and Research Center for Stroke, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- China National Comprehensive Stroke Center, Changchun, China
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Cerebrovascular Disease, Changchun, China
| | - Xiu-Li Yan
- Department of Neurology, Stroke Center & Clinical Trial and Research Center for Stroke, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yi Yang
- Department of Neurology, Stroke Center & Clinical Trial and Research Center for Stroke, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- China National Comprehensive Stroke Center, Changchun, China
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Cerebrovascular Disease, Changchun, China
| | - Shuo Huang
- Department of Neurology, Stroke Center & Clinical Trial and Research Center for Stroke, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- China National Comprehensive Stroke Center, Changchun, China
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Cerebrovascular Disease, Changchun, China
- *Correspondence: Shuo Huang,
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15
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Role of RNA in Molecular Diagnosis of MADD Patients. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9050507. [PMID: 34064479 PMCID: PMC8147995 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9050507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The electron-transfer flavoprotein dehydrogenase gene (ETFDH) encodes the ETF-ubiquinone oxidoreductase (ETF-QO) and has been reported to be the major cause of multiple acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency (MADD). In this study, we present the clinical and molecular diagnostic challenges, at the DNA and RNA levels, involved in establishing the genotype of four MADD patients with novel ETFDH variants: a missense variant, two deep intronic variants and a gross deletion. RNA sequencing allowed the identification of the second causative allele in all studied patients. Simultaneous DNA and RNA investigation can increase the number of MADD patients that can be confirmed following the suggestive data results of an expanded newborn screening program. In clinical practice, accurate identification of pathogenic mutations is fundamental, particularly with regard to diagnostic, prognostic, therapeutic and ethical issues. Our study highlights the importance of RNA studies for a definitive molecular diagnosis of MADD patients, expands the background of ETFDH mutations and will be important in providing an accurate genetic counseling and a prenatal diagnosis for the affected families.
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16
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Duran J, Nickel L, Estrada M, Backs J, van den Hoogenhof MMG. CaMKIIδ Splice Variants in the Healthy and Diseased Heart. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:644630. [PMID: 33777949 PMCID: PMC7991079 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.644630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
RNA splicing has been recognized in recent years as a pivotal player in heart development and disease. The Ca2+/calmodulin dependent protein kinase II delta (CaMKIIδ) is a multifunctional Ser/Thr kinase family and generates at least 11 different splice variants through alternative splicing. This enzyme, which belongs to the CaMKII family, is the predominant family member in the heart and functions as a messenger toward adaptive or detrimental signaling in cardiomyocytes. Classically, the nuclear CaMKIIδB and cytoplasmic CaMKIIδC splice variants are described as mediators of arrhythmias, contractile function, Ca2+ handling, and gene transcription. Recent findings also put CaMKIIδA and CaMKIIδ9 as cardinal players in the global CaMKII response in the heart. In this review, we discuss and summarize the new insights into CaMKIIδ splice variants and their (proposed) functions, as well as CaMKII-engineered mouse phenotypes and cardiac dysfunction related to CaMKIIδ missplicing. We also discuss RNA splicing factors affecting CaMKII splicing. Finally, we discuss the translational perspective derived from these insights and future directions on CaMKIIδ splicing research in the healthy and diseased heart.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Duran
- Institute of Experimental Cardiology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany.,German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Heidelberg/Mannheim, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Lennart Nickel
- Institute of Experimental Cardiology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany.,German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Heidelberg/Mannheim, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Manuel Estrada
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Johannes Backs
- Institute of Experimental Cardiology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany.,German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Heidelberg/Mannheim, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Maarten M G van den Hoogenhof
- Institute of Experimental Cardiology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany.,German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Heidelberg/Mannheim, Heidelberg, Germany
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17
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Yavas A, Weij R, van Putten M, Kourkouta E, Beekman C, Puoliväli J, Bragge T, Ahtoniemi T, Knijnenburg J, Hoogenboom ME, Ariyurek Y, Aartsma-Rus A, van Deutekom J, Datson N. Detailed genetic and functional analysis of the hDMDdel52/mdx mouse model. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0244215. [PMID: 33362201 PMCID: PMC7757897 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0244215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a severe, progressive neuromuscular disorder caused by reading frame disrupting mutations in the DMD gene leading to absence of functional dystrophin. Antisense oligonucleotide (AON)-mediated exon skipping is a therapeutic approach aimed at restoring the reading frame at the pre-mRNA level, allowing the production of internally truncated partly functional dystrophin proteins. AONs work in a sequence specific manner, which warrants generating humanized mouse models for preclinical tests. To address this, we previously generated the hDMDdel52/mdx mouse model using transcription activator like effector nuclease (TALEN) technology. This model contains mutated murine and human DMD genes, and therefore lacks mouse and human dystrophin resulting in a dystrophic phenotype. It allows preclinical evaluation of AONs inducing the skipping of human DMD exons 51 and 53 and resulting in restoration of dystrophin synthesis. Here, we have further characterized this model genetically and functionally. We discovered that the hDMD and hDMDdel52 transgene is present twice per locus, in a tail-to-tail-orientation. Long-read sequencing revealed a partial deletion of exon 52 (first 25 bp), and a 2.3 kb inversion in intron 51 in both copies. These new findings on the genomic make-up of the hDMD and hDMDdel52 transgene do not affect exon 51 and/or 53 skipping, but do underline the need for extensive genetic analysis of mice generated with genome editing techniques to elucidate additional genetic changes that might have occurred. The hDMDdel52/mdx mice were also evaluated functionally using kinematic gait analysis. This revealed a clear and highly significant difference in overall gait between hDMDdel52/mdx mice and C57BL6/J controls. The motor deficit detected in the model confirms its suitability for preclinical testing of exon skipping AONs for human DMD at both the functional and molecular level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alper Yavas
- Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Rudie Weij
- BioMarin Nederland BV, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Maaike van Putten
- Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | | | | | - Timo Bragge
- Charles River Discovery Services, Kuopio, Finland
| | | | - Jeroen Knijnenburg
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | - Yavuz Ariyurek
- Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Annemieke Aartsma-Rus
- Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- * E-mail:
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18
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Benhamou RI, Vezina-Dawod S, Choudhary S, Won Wang K, Meyer SM, Yildirim I, Disney MD. Macrocyclization of a Ligand Targeting a Toxic RNA Dramatically Improves Potency. Chembiochem 2020; 21:3229-3233. [PMID: 32649032 PMCID: PMC7674229 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202000445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
RNA molecules both contribute to and are causative of many human diseases. One method to perturb RNA function is to target its structure with small molecules. However, discovering bioactive ligands for RNA targets is challenging. Here, we show that the bioactivity of a linear dimeric ligand that inactivates the RNA trinucleotide repeat expansion that causes myotonic dystrophy type 1 [DM1; r(CUG)exp ] can be improved by macrocyclization. Indeed, the macrocyclic compound is ten times more potent than the linear compound for improving DM1-associated defects in cells, including in patient-derived myotubes (muscle cells). This enhancement in potency is due to the macrocycle's increased affinity and selectively for the target, which inhibit r(CUG)exp 's toxic interaction with muscleblind-like 1 (MBNL1), and its superior cell permeability. Macrocyclization could prove to be an effective way to enhance the bioactivity of modularly assembled ligands targeting RNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raphael I Benhamou
- Departments of Chemistry and Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, 130 Scripps Way, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA
| | - Simon Vezina-Dawod
- Departments of Chemistry and Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, 130 Scripps Way, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA
| | - Shruti Choudhary
- Departments of Chemistry and Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, 130 Scripps Way, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA
| | - Kye Won Wang
- Department of Chemistry, Florida Atlantic University, John D. MacArthur Campus, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA
| | - Samantha M Meyer
- Departments of Chemistry and Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, 130 Scripps Way, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA
| | - Ilyas Yildirim
- Department of Chemistry, Florida Atlantic University, John D. MacArthur Campus, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA
| | - Matthew D Disney
- Departments of Chemistry and Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, 130 Scripps Way, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA
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19
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Nakamura A, Ali SA, Kapoor M. Antisense oligonucleotide-based therapies for the treatment of osteoarthritis: Opportunities and roadblocks. Bone 2020; 138:115461. [PMID: 32485363 DOI: 10.1016/j.bone.2020.115461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2020] [Revised: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a debilitating disease with no approved disease-modifying therapies. Among the challenges for developing treatment is achieving targeted drug delivery to affected joints. This has contributed to the failure of several drug candidates for the treatment of OA. Over the past 20 years, significant advances have been made in antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) technology for achieving targeted delivery to tissues and cells both in vitro and in vivo. Since ASOs are able to bind specific gene regions and regulate protein translation, they are useful for correcting aberrant endogenous mechanisms associated with certain diseases. ASOs can be delivered locally through intra-articular injection, and can enter cells through natural cellular uptake mechanisms. Despite this, ASOs have yet to be successfully tested in clinical trials for the treatment of OA. Recent chemical modification to ASOs have further improved cellular uptake and reduced toxicity. Among these are locked nucleic acid (LNA)-based ASOs, which have shown promising results in clinical trials for diseases such as hepatitis and dyslipidemia. Recently, LNA-based ASOs have been tested both in vitro and in vivo for their therapeutic potential in OA, and some have shown promising joint-protective effects in preclinical OA animal models. In order to accelerate the testing of ASO therapies in a clinical trial setting for OA, further investigation into delivery mechanisms is required. In this review article, we discuss opportunities for viral-, particle-, biomaterial-, and chemical modification-based therapies, which are currently in preclinical testing. We also address potential roadblocks in the clinical translation of ASO-based therapies for the treatment of OA, such as the limitations associated with OA animal models and the challenges with drug toxicity. Taken together, we review what is known and what would be useful to accelerate translation of ASO-based therapies for the treatment of OA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akihiro Nakamura
- Arthritis Program, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Division of Genetics and Development, Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Division of Rheumatology, University Health Network, Toronto Western Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Shabana Amanda Ali
- Arthritis Program, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Division of Genetics and Development, Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Bone & Joint Center, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Mohit Kapoor
- Arthritis Program, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Division of Genetics and Development, Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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20
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Sun C, Shen L, Zhang Z, Xie X. Therapeutic Strategies for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy: An Update. Genes (Basel) 2020; 11:genes11080837. [PMID: 32717791 PMCID: PMC7463903 DOI: 10.3390/genes11080837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2020] [Revised: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 07/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuromuscular disorders encompass a heterogeneous group of conditions that impair the function of muscles, motor neurons, peripheral nerves, and neuromuscular junctions. Being the most common and most severe type of muscular dystrophy, Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), is caused by mutations in the X-linked dystrophin gene. Loss of dystrophin protein leads to recurrent myofiber damage, chronic inflammation, progressive fibrosis, and dysfunction of muscle stem cells. Over the last few years, there has been considerable development of diagnosis and therapeutics for DMD, but current treatments do not cure the disease. Here, we review the current status of DMD pathogenesis and therapy, focusing on mutational spectrum, diagnosis tools, clinical trials, and therapeutic approaches including dystrophin restoration, gene therapy, and myogenic cell transplantation. Furthermore, we present the clinical potential of advanced strategies combining gene editing, cell-based therapy with tissue engineering for the treatment of muscular dystrophy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengmei Sun
- Zhejiang University-University of Edinburgh Institute, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Haining 314400, China; (C.S.); (L.S.); (Z.Z.)
- Department of Medical Oncology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310009, China
| | - Luoan Shen
- Zhejiang University-University of Edinburgh Institute, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Haining 314400, China; (C.S.); (L.S.); (Z.Z.)
| | - Zheng Zhang
- Zhejiang University-University of Edinburgh Institute, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Haining 314400, China; (C.S.); (L.S.); (Z.Z.)
| | - Xin Xie
- Zhejiang University-University of Edinburgh Institute, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Haining 314400, China; (C.S.); (L.S.); (Z.Z.)
- Department of Medical Oncology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310009, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-0571-87572326
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21
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Zhao M, Tazumi A, Takayama S, Takenaka-Ninagawa N, Nalbandian M, Nagai M, Nakamura Y, Nakasa M, Watanabe A, Ikeya M, Hotta A, Ito Y, Sato T, Sakurai H. Induced Fetal Human Muscle Stem Cells with High Therapeutic Potential in a Mouse Muscular Dystrophy Model. Stem Cell Reports 2020; 15:80-94. [PMID: 32619494 PMCID: PMC7363940 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2020.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2019] [Revised: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a progressive and fatal muscle-wasting disease caused by DYSTROPHIN deficiency. Cell therapy using muscle stem cells (MuSCs) is a potential cure. Here, we report a differentiation method to generate fetal MuSCs from human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) by monitoring MYF5 expression. Gene expression profiling indicated that MYF5-positive cells in the late stage of differentiation have fetal MuSC characteristics, while MYF5-positive cells in the early stage of differentiation have early myogenic progenitor characteristics. Moreover, late-stage MYF5-positive cells demonstrated good muscle regeneration potential and produced DYSTROPHIN in vivo after transplantation into DMD model mice, resulting in muscle function recovery. The engrafted cells also generated PAX7-positive MuSC-like cells under the basal lamina of DYSTROPHIN-positive fibers. These findings suggest that MYF5-positive fetal MuSCs induced in the late stage of iPSC differentiation have cell therapy potential for DMD. Wnt agonists at high dose and long term induces dermomyotome cells effectively MYF5+ cell characteristics vary between early- and late-stage differentiation Late-stage MYF5+ cells acquire characteristics resembling fetal muscle stem cells MYF5+ cells recover dystrophin and improves muscular function
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingming Zhao
- Department of Clinical Application, Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Kyoto University, 53 Shogoin-Kawahara-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan.
| | - Atsutoshi Tazumi
- Department of Clinical Application, Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Kyoto University, 53 Shogoin-Kawahara-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan; Asahi Kasei Co., Ltd., 1-105 Jinbo-cho, Kanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Satoru Takayama
- Department of Clinical Application, Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Kyoto University, 53 Shogoin-Kawahara-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan; Asahi Kasei Co., Ltd., 1-105 Jinbo-cho, Kanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Nana Takenaka-Ninagawa
- Department of Clinical Application, Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Kyoto University, 53 Shogoin-Kawahara-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
| | - Minas Nalbandian
- Department of Clinical Application, Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Kyoto University, 53 Shogoin-Kawahara-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
| | - Miki Nagai
- Department of Clinical Application, Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Kyoto University, 53 Shogoin-Kawahara-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
| | - Yumi Nakamura
- Department of Clinical Application, Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Kyoto University, 53 Shogoin-Kawahara-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
| | - Masanori Nakasa
- Department of Clinical Application, Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Kyoto University, 53 Shogoin-Kawahara-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
| | - Akira Watanabe
- Department of Life Science Frontiers, Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Kyoto University, 53 Shogoin-Kawahara-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
| | - Makoto Ikeya
- Department of Clinical Application, Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Kyoto University, 53 Shogoin-Kawahara-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
| | - Akitsu Hotta
- Department of Clinical Application, Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Kyoto University, 53 Shogoin-Kawahara-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
| | - Yuta Ito
- Faculty of Rehabilitation Science, Nagoya Gakuin University, 1350 Kamishinano-cho, Seto City, Aichi 480-1298, Japan
| | - Takahiko Sato
- Department of Anatomy, Fujita Health University, 1-98 Dengakugakubo, Kutsukake-cho, Toyoake, Aichi 470-1192, Japan
| | - Hidetoshi Sakurai
- Department of Clinical Application, Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Kyoto University, 53 Shogoin-Kawahara-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan.
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22
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Boer RE, Torrey ZR, Schneekloth JS. Chemical Modulation of Pre-mRNA Splicing in Mammalian Systems. ACS Chem Biol 2020; 15:808-818. [PMID: 32191432 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.0c00001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
RNA splicing is a key component of gene expression and proteomic diversity in humans. The spliceosome assembles on and processes individual nascent pre-mRNA transcripts into distinct mature mRNAs that can code for different proteins. Splicing programs can be affected by somatic mutations and changes in response to exogenous stimuli. Importantly, alterations in splicing can be direct drivers of diseases including cancers. This Review describes recent advances and the potential for targeting and controlling pre-mRNA splicing in humans with small molecules, ranging from targeting spliceosomal proteins to direct targeting of individual RNA transcripts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert E. Boer
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, National Cancer Institute, Frederick Maryland 21702, United States
| | - Zachary R. Torrey
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, National Cancer Institute, Frederick Maryland 21702, United States
| | - John S. Schneekloth
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, National Cancer Institute, Frederick Maryland 21702, United States
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23
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Lin J, Jo SB, Kim TH, Kim HW, Chew SY. RNA interference in glial cells for nerve injury treatment. J Tissue Eng 2020; 11:2041731420939224. [PMID: 32670539 PMCID: PMC7338726 DOI: 10.1177/2041731420939224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Drivers of RNA interference are potent for manipulating gene and protein levels, which enable the restoration of dysregulated mRNA expression that is commonly associated with injuries and diseases. This review summarizes the potential of targeting neuroglial cells, using RNA interference, to treat nerve injuries sustained in the central nervous system. In addition, the various methods of delivering these RNA interference effectors will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junquan Lin
- School of Chemical and Biomedical
Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
| | - Seung Bin Jo
- Institute of Tissue Regeneration
Engineering (ITREN), Dankook University, Cheonan, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae-Hyun Kim
- Institute of Tissue Regeneration
Engineering (ITREN), Dankook University, Cheonan, Republic of Korea
- Department of Nanobiomedical Science
& BK21 PLUS NBM Global Research Center for Regenerative Medicine, Dankook
University, Cheonan, Republic of Korea
| | - Hae-Won Kim
- Institute of Tissue Regeneration
Engineering (ITREN), Dankook University, Cheonan, Republic of Korea
- Department of Nanobiomedical Science
& BK21 PLUS NBM Global Research Center for Regenerative Medicine, Dankook
University, Cheonan, Republic of Korea
- UCL Eastman-Korea Dental Medicine
Innovation Centre, Dankook University, Cheonan, Republic of Korea
| | - Sing Yian Chew
- School of Chemical and Biomedical
Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine,
Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
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24
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Qiao K, Ning S, Wan L, Wu H, Wang Q, Zhang X, Xu S, Pang D. LINC00673 is activated by YY1 and promotes the proliferation of breast cancer cells via the miR-515-5p/MARK4/Hippo signaling pathway. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2019; 38:418. [PMID: 31623640 PMCID: PMC6796384 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-019-1421-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2019] [Accepted: 09/10/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Background An increasing number of studies have shown that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) play essential roles in tumor initiation and progression. LncRNAs act as tumor promoters or suppressors by targeting specific genes via epigenetic modifications and competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) mechanisms. In this study, we explored the function and detailed mechanisms of long intergenic nonprotein coding RNA 673 (LINC00673) in breast cancer progression. Methods Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) was used to examine the expression of LINC00673 in breast cancer tissues and in adjacent normal tissues. Gain-of-function and loss-of function experiments were conducted to investigate the biological functions of LINC00673 in vitro and in vivo. We also explored the potential role of LINC00673 as a therapeutic target using antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) in vivo. RNA sequencing (RNA-seq), dual-luciferase reporter assays, chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assay, and rescue experiments were performed to uncover the detailed mechanism of LINC00673 in promoting breast cancer progression. Results In the present study, LINC00673 displayed a trend of remarkably increased expression in breast cancer tissues and was associated with poor prognosis in breast cancer patients. Importantly, LINC00673 depletion inhibited breast cancer cell proliferation by inhibiting the cell cycle and increasing apoptosis. Furthermore, ASO therapy targeting LINC00673 substantially suppressed breast cancer cell proliferation in vivo. Mechanistically, LINC00673 was found to act as a ceRNA by sponging miR-515-5p to regulate MARK4 expression, thus inhibiting the Hippo signaling pathway. Finally, ChIP assay showed that the transcription factor Yin Yang 1 (YY1) could bind to the LINC00673 promoter and increase its transcription in cis. Conclusions YY1-activated LINC00673 may exert an oncogenic function by acting as a sponge for miR-515-5p to upregulate the MARK4 and then inhibit Hippo signaling pathway, and may serve as a potential therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Qiao
- Department of Breast Surgery, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, 150 Haping Road, Harbin, 150086, China
| | - Shipeng Ning
- Department of Breast Surgery, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, 150 Haping Road, Harbin, 150086, China
| | - Lin Wan
- Department of Breast Surgery, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, 150 Haping Road, Harbin, 150086, China
| | - Hao Wu
- Department of Breast Surgery, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, 150 Haping Road, Harbin, 150086, China
| | - Qin Wang
- Department of Breast Surgery, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, 150 Haping Road, Harbin, 150086, China
| | - Xingda Zhang
- Department of Breast Surgery, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, 150 Haping Road, Harbin, 150086, China
| | - Shouping Xu
- Department of Breast Surgery, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, 150 Haping Road, Harbin, 150086, China.
| | - Da Pang
- Department of Breast Surgery, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, 150 Haping Road, Harbin, 150086, China. .,Heilongjiang Academy of Medical Sciences, 157 Baojian Road, Harbin, 150086, China.
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Tsoumpra MK, Fukumoto S, Matsumoto T, Takeda S, Wood MJA, Aoki Y. Peptide-conjugate antisense based splice-correction for Duchenne muscular dystrophy and other neuromuscular diseases. EBioMedicine 2019; 45:630-645. [PMID: 31257147 PMCID: PMC6642283 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2019.06.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2019] [Revised: 05/31/2019] [Accepted: 06/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is an X-linked disorder characterized by progressive muscle degeneration, caused by the absence of dystrophin. Exon skipping by antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) has recently gained recognition as therapeutic approach in DMD. Conjugation of a peptide to the phosphorodiamidate morpholino backbone (PMO) of ASOs generated the peptide-conjugated PMOs (PPMOs) that exhibit a dramatically improved pharmacokinetic profile. When tested in animal models, PPMOs demonstrate effective exon skipping in target muscles and prolonged duration of dystrophin restoration after a treatment regime. Herein we summarize the main pathophysiological features of DMD and the emergence of PPMOs as promising exon skipping agents aiming to rescue defective gene expression in DMD and other neuromuscular diseases. The listed PPMO laboratory findings correspond to latest trends in the field and highlight the obstacles that must be overcome prior to translating the animal-based research into clinical trials tailored to the needs of patients suffering from neuromuscular diseases.
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Key Words
- aso, antisense oligonucleotides
- cns, central nervous system
- cpp, cell penetrating peptide
- dgc, dystrophin glyco-protein complex
- dmd, duchenne muscular dystrophy
- fda, us food and drug administration
- pmo, phosphorodiamidate morpholino
- ppmo, peptide-conjugated pmos
- ps, phosphorothioate
- sma, spinal muscular atrophy
- 2ʹ-ome, 2ʹ-o-methyl
- 2ʹ-moe, 2ʹ-o-methoxyethyl
- 6mwt, 6-minute walk test
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria K Tsoumpra
- Department of Molecular Therapy, National Institute of Neuroscience, National Centre of Neurology and Psychiatry, Kodaira-shi, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Seiji Fukumoto
- Fujii Memorial Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Tokushima, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Toshio Matsumoto
- Fujii Memorial Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Tokushima, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Shin'ichi Takeda
- Department of Molecular Therapy, National Institute of Neuroscience, National Centre of Neurology and Psychiatry, Kodaira-shi, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Yoshitsugu Aoki
- Department of Molecular Therapy, National Institute of Neuroscience, National Centre of Neurology and Psychiatry, Kodaira-shi, Tokyo, Japan.
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Taladriz-Sender A, Campbell E, Burley GA. Splice-switching small molecules: A new therapeutic approach to modulate gene expression. Methods 2019; 167:134-142. [PMID: 31203161 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymeth.2019.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2019] [Revised: 06/10/2019] [Accepted: 06/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Manipulating alternative RNA splicing events with small molecules is emerging as a viable mechanism for the development of therapeutics. A salient challenge in the field is understanding the molecular determinants defining the selectivity of splice-switching events and their mechanisms of action. In this review, the current state-of-the-art in splice-switching small molecules is described. Three examples of splice-switching small molecules are presented, and the differences in their modes of action compared.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Taladriz-Sender
- Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry, University of Strathclyde. Thomas Graham Building, 295 Cathedral Street, Glasgow G1 1XL, United Kingdom
| | - Emma Campbell
- Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry, University of Strathclyde. Thomas Graham Building, 295 Cathedral Street, Glasgow G1 1XL, United Kingdom
| | - Glenn A Burley
- Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry, University of Strathclyde. Thomas Graham Building, 295 Cathedral Street, Glasgow G1 1XL, United Kingdom.
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Wang F, Cheng Y, Zhang C, Chang G, Geng X. A novel antisense oligonucleotide anchored on the intronic splicing enhancer of hTERT pre-mRNA inhibits telomerase activity and induces apoptosis in glioma cells. J Neurooncol 2019; 143:57-68. [PMID: 30887243 DOI: 10.1007/s11060-019-03150-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2018] [Accepted: 03/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Alternative splicing of hTERT pre-mRNA is an important step in the regulation of telomerase activity, but the regulation mechanisms and functions remain unclear. METHODS RT-PCR analysis was used to detect hTERT splicing in glioma cell lines and brain tissues. TRAP assay was used to detect the telomerase activity. Then, we designed and synthesized 2'-O-methyl-RNA phosphorothioate AONs and transfected them into glioma cells to detect the changes in telomerase activity. MTT assay, plate colony formation assay, western blotting and Annexin V/PI assay were used to detect cell proliferation and apoptosis. At last, bioinformatics analyses were used to predict the expression and function of splicing protein SRSF2 in gliomas. RESULTS hTERT splicing occurs both in glioma cell lines and glioma patients' tissues. The telomerase activity was related to the expression level of the full-length hTERT, rather than the total hTERT transcript level. AON-Ex726 was complementary to the sequence of the intronic splicing enhancer (ISE) in intron six, and significantly altered the splicing pattern of hTERT pre-mRNA, reducing the expression level of the full-length hTERT mRNA and increasing the expression level of the -β hTERT mRNA. After transfection with AON-Ex726, the level of apoptosis was increased, while telomerase activity and cell proliferation were significantly decreased. By bioinformatic predictions, we found the AON-Ex726 anchoring sequence in ISE overlaps the binding site of SRSF2 protein, which is up-regulated during the development of gliomas. CONCLUSIONS Our findings provided new targets and important clues for the gene therapy of gliomas by regulating the alternative splicing pattern of hTERT pre-mRNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Wang
- Department of Neurology, General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Yajing Cheng
- Department of Neurology, General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Chi Zhang
- Department of Neurology, General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Guangming Chang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Xin Geng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease, Ministry of Education, Tianjin Medical University, 22nd Qixiangtai Road, Tianjin, 300070, China.
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Hilhorst N, Spanoudi-Kitrimi I, Goemans N, Morren MA. Injection site reactions after long-term subcutaneous delivery of drisapersen: a retrospective study. Eur J Pediatr 2019; 178:253-258. [PMID: 30448867 DOI: 10.1007/s00431-018-3272-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2018] [Revised: 10/13/2018] [Accepted: 10/17/2018] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
A retrospective study in which we reviewed the hospital files of a subset of 7 patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy participating in the open-label phase I/II PRO051-02 study in Leuven. The objective of this study was to describe in detail the injection site reactions in these children treated with drisapersen (PRO-051), a 2'-O-methyl phosphorothioate RNA antisense oligonucleotide, that induces exon 51 skipping in Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Antisense oligonucleotides, restoring the reading frame by skipping of exons, have become a potential treatment of Duchenne muscular dystrophy and other monogenetic diseases. Erythema followed by hyperpigmentation, fibrosis, and calcification were seen at the injection sites in all children. Ulcerations, which were difficult to heal, occurred in 5 of 7 children. Progression still occurred after switching to intravenous administration of drisapersen or even after stopping therapy. Systemic reactions included a reversible proteinuria and α1-microglobulinuria. Moreover, hypotrichosis was a common feature.Conclusion: Subcutaneous administration of drisapersen causes severe and progressive injection site effects. What is known: • Antisense oligonucleotides offer the possibility to convert Duchenne muscular dystrophy to the less severe Becker type. This can potentially be achieved by targeting and skipping specific exons of the Duchenne muscular dystrophy gene to restore the disrupted reading frame and to induce the production of a semi functional dystrophin protein. • Drisapersen is such an antisense oligonucleotides which can be administered subcutaneously. Its use has been tested extensively in the escalating dose pilot study (PRO051-02). What is new: • This report describes the injection site reactions caused by this type of agent in detail which has never been done before. We therefore reviewed the hospital files of 7 patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy participating in the phase I/II open-label, escalating dose pilot study (PRO051-02) with drisapersen. • Severe side effects starting with erythema, hyperpigmentation, and later fibrosis, calcification, and difficult to treat ulcerations developed in all patients, and these continued to progress even after cessation of drisapersen. We discuss some possible underlying mechanisms. The exact mechanism however is still not known.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niels Hilhorst
- Department of Dermatology, UZ Leuven Campus Gasthuisberg, Herestraat 49, 3000, Leuven, Belgium.
| | | | - Nathalie Goemans
- Department of Pediatrics, UZ Leuven Campus Gasthuisberg, Herestraat 49, Leuven, 3000, Belgium
| | - Marie-Anne Morren
- Department of Dermatology, UZ Leuven Campus Gasthuisberg, Herestraat 49, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
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29
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Tyers L, Davids LM, Wilmshurst JM, Esterhuizen AI. Skin cells for use in an alternate diagnostic method for Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Neuromuscul Disord 2018; 28:553-563. [PMID: 29958823 DOI: 10.1016/j.nmd.2018.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2017] [Revised: 03/27/2018] [Accepted: 05/02/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The importance of molecular diagnosis and identification of disease-associated variants for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is evident in the age of gene-based therapies and personalised medicine. Detection of the causative DMD variant and determination of its effects on dystrophin expression is best achieved by analysis of RNA extracted from muscle biopsy material. However, this is not done routinely, as the procedure can be traumatic, especially to young children, and carries risk of complications related to the use of anaesthetic. As skin biopsies are safer and straightforward to perform than muscle biopsies, we investigated the utility of cultured human epidermal melanocytes and dermal fibroblasts as alternative tools for RNA-based diagnosis of DMD. Shallow skin biopsies from 5 boys with genetically confirmed diagnoses of DMD were used to culture fibroblasts and melanocytes. Biopsies were sampled, and tolerated without complications, using local anaesthetic cream. Dystrophin expression in the cultured cells was assessed using immunocytochemical staining, quantitative real-time PCR and cDNA sequencing methodologies. We observed differential expression of the full-length dystrophin muscle transcript, with significantly more robust expression in melanocytes, compared to that in fibroblasts. Our results suggest that cultured skin melanocytes may present an alternative tool for RNA-based genetic diagnosis of DMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lynn Tyers
- Division of Human Genetics, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Observatory, Cape Town 7935, South Africa.
| | | | - Jo M Wilmshurst
- Division of Human Genetics, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Observatory, Cape Town 7935, South Africa; Department of Paediatric Neurology and Neurophysiology, Neuroscience Institute, Red Cross War Memorial Children's Hospital, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, Cape Town 7700, South Africa
| | - Alina I Esterhuizen
- Division of Human Genetics, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Observatory, Cape Town 7935, South Africa; National Health Laboratory Service, Groote Schuur Hospital, Observatory, Cape Town 7935, South Africa
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30
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Donlic A, Hargrove AE. Targeting RNA in mammalian systems with small molecules. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. RNA 2018; 9:e1477. [PMID: 29726113 PMCID: PMC6002909 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2018] [Revised: 03/06/2018] [Accepted: 03/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The recognition of RNA functions beyond canonical protein synthesis has challenged the central dogma of molecular biology. Indeed, RNA is now known to directly regulate many important cellular processes, including transcription, splicing, translation, and epigenetic modifications. The misregulation of these processes in disease has led to an appreciation of RNA as a therapeutic target. This potential was first recognized in bacteria and viruses, but discoveries of new RNA classes following the sequencing of the human genome have invigorated exploration of its disease-related functions in mammals. As stable structure formation is evolving as a hallmark of mammalian RNAs, the prospect of utilizing small molecules to specifically probe the function of RNA structural domains and their interactions is gaining increased recognition. To date, researchers have discovered bioactive small molecules that modulate phenotypes by binding to expanded repeats, microRNAs, G-quadruplex structures, and RNA splice sites in neurological disorders, cancers, and other diseases. The lessons learned from achieving these successes both call for additional studies and encourage exploration of the plethora of mammalian RNAs whose precise mechanisms of action remain to be elucidated. Efforts toward understanding fundamental principles of small molecule-RNA recognition combined with advances in methodology development should pave the way toward targeting emerging RNA classes such as long noncoding RNAs. Together, these endeavors can unlock the full potential of small molecule-based probing of RNA-regulated processes and enable us to discover new biology and underexplored avenues for therapeutic intervention in human disease. This article is categorized under: RNA Methods > RNA Analyses In Vitro and In Silico RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > Small Molecule-RNA Interactions RNA in Disease and Development > RNA in Disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita Donlic
- Department of Chemistry, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Amanda E Hargrove
- Department of Chemistry, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
- Department of Biochemistry, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
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31
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Tomassi S, Ieranò C, Mercurio ME, Nigro E, Daniele A, Russo R, Chambery A, Baglivo I, Pedone PV, Rea G, Napolitano M, Scala S, Cosconati S, Marinelli L, Novellino E, Messere A, Di Maro S. Cationic nucleopeptides as novel non-covalent carriers for the delivery of peptide nucleic acid (PNA) and RNA oligomers. Bioorg Med Chem 2018; 26:2539-2550. [PMID: 29656988 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2018.04.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2018] [Revised: 04/05/2018] [Accepted: 04/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Cationic nucleopeptides belong to a family of synthetic oligomers composed by amino acids and nucleobases. Their capability to recognize nucleic acid targets and to cross cellular membranes provided the basis for considering them as novel non-covalent delivery agents for nucleic acid pharmaceuticals. Herein, starting from a 12-mer nucleopeptide model, the number of cationic residues was modulated in order to obtain new nucleopeptides endowed with high solubility in acqueous medium, acceptable bio-stability, low cytotoxicity and good capability to bind nucleic acid. Two candidates were selected to further investigate their potential as nucleic acid carriers, showing higher efficiency to deliver PNA in comparison with RNA. Noteworthy, this study encourages the development of nucleopeptides as new carriers to extend the known strategies for those nucleic acid analogues, especially PNA, that still remain difficult to drive into the cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Tomassi
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Caterina Ieranò
- Molecular Immunology and Immunoregulation, Istituto Nazionale Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale", IRCCS-Napoli, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Emilia Mercurio
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Ersilia Nigro
- Department of Cardiothoracic and Respiratory Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Via Leonardo Bianchi c/o Ospedale Monaldi, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Aurora Daniele
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy; Ceinge-Biotecnologie Avanzate S.c.a r.l., Via G. Salvatore 486, 80145 Napoli, Italy
| | - Rosita Russo
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Angela Chambery
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Ilaria Baglivo
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Paolo Vincenzo Pedone
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Rea
- Molecular Immunology and Immunoregulation, Istituto Nazionale Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale", IRCCS-Napoli, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Napolitano
- Molecular Immunology and Immunoregulation, Istituto Nazionale Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale", IRCCS-Napoli, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Stefania Scala
- Molecular Immunology and Immunoregulation, Istituto Nazionale Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale", IRCCS-Napoli, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Sandro Cosconati
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Luciana Marinelli
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II", Via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Ettore Novellino
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II", Via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Anna Messere
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy.
| | - Salvatore Di Maro
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy.
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Carver MP, Charleston JS, Shanks C, Zhang J, Mense M, Sharma AK, Kaur H, Sazani P. Toxicological Characterization of Exon Skipping Phosphorodiamidate Morpholino Oligomers (PMOs) in Non-human Primates. J Neuromuscul Dis 2018; 3:381-393. [PMID: 27854228 DOI: 10.3233/jnd-160157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Phosphorodiamidate morpholino oligomers (PMOs) are a class of exon skipping drugs including eteplirsen, which has shown considerable promise for treatment of the degenerative neuromuscular disease, Duchenne musculardystrophy (DMD). OBJECTIVE Toxicity studies in non-human primates (NHPs) of 12 weeks duration with two new PMOs for DMD, SRP-4045 and SRP-4053, along with results from a chronic study in NHPs of 39 weeks duration for eteplirsen, are described here. METHODS PMOs were administered once-weekly by bolus intravenous (IV) injections to male NHPs. Endpoints evaluated included plasma exposures, clinical observations, body weight/food consumption, eye exams, electrocardiograms, male reproductive hormones/endpoints, complement alternative pathway, clinical pathology, urinalysis, and macroscopic/light microscopic pathology. RESULTS Findings in these studies were limited to the kidneys, with a common presentation of tubular basophilia, vacuolation, and/or minimal degeneration that was considered non-adverse. No necrosis, glomerular lesions, or effects on renal function tests such as serum creatinine or urea nitrogen were observed, suggesting that PMO-related kidney findings are not likely to develop into frank nephrotoxicity. There were no adverse effects on other potential target organs after repeated IV injections at the highest dose levels tested, 320 mg/kg. CONCLUSIONS Nonclinical results in NHPs for these three PMOs, together with the excellent clinical safety established for eteplirsen to date, suggest that once-weekly IV administration of PMOs for lifetime durations at therapeutic doses will be well tolerated by patients with DMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael P Carver
- R&D Pharmacology/Toxicology, Sarepta Therapeutics, Inc., Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Jay S Charleston
- R&D Pharmacology/Toxicology, Sarepta Therapeutics, Inc., Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Courtney Shanks
- R&D Pharmacology/Toxicology, Sarepta Therapeutics, Inc., Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Jianbo Zhang
- R&D Pharmacology/Toxicology, Sarepta Therapeutics, Inc., Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Mark Mense
- Covance Laboratories, Inc., Madison, WI, USA
| | | | | | - Peter Sazani
- Research and Innovation, Sarepta Therapeutics, Inc., Cambridge, MA, USA
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Carlier PG, Marty B, Scheidegger O, Loureiro de Sousa P, Baudin PY, Snezhko E, Vlodavets D. Skeletal Muscle Quantitative Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Spectroscopy as an Outcome Measure for Clinical Trials. J Neuromuscul Dis 2018; 3:1-28. [PMID: 27854210 PMCID: PMC5271435 DOI: 10.3233/jnd-160145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Recent years have seen tremendous progress towards therapy of many previously incurable neuromuscular diseases. This new context has acted as a driving force for the development of novel non-invasive outcome measures. These can be organized in three main categories: functional tools, fluid biomarkers and imagery. In the latest category, nuclear magnetic resonance imaging (NMRI) offers a considerable range of possibilities for the characterization of skeletal muscle composition, function and metabolism. Nowadays, three NMR outcome measures are frequently integrated in clinical research protocols. They are: 1/ the muscle cross sectional area or volume, 2/ the percentage of intramuscular fat and 3/ the muscle water T2, which quantity muscle trophicity, chronic fatty degenerative changes and oedema (or more broadly, “disease activity”), respectively. A fourth biomarker, the contractile tissue volume is easily derived from the first two ones. The fat fraction maps most often acquired with Dixon sequences have proven their capability to detect small changes in muscle composition and have repeatedly shown superior sensitivity over standard functional evaluation. This outcome measure will more than likely be the first of the series to be validated as an endpoint by regulatory agencies. The versatility of contrast generated by NMR has opened many additional possibilities for characterization of the skeletal muscle and will result in the proposal of more NMR biomarkers. Ultra-short TE (UTE) sequences, late gadolinium enhancement and NMR elastography are being investigated as candidates to evaluate skeletal muscle interstitial fibrosis. Many options exist to measure muscle perfusion and oxygenation by NMR. Diffusion NMR as well as texture analysis algorithms could generate complementary information on muscle organization at microscopic and mesoscopic scales, respectively. 31P NMR spectroscopy is the reference technique to assess muscle energetics non-invasively during and after exercise. In dystrophic muscle, 31P NMR spectrum at rest is profoundly perturbed, and several resonances inform on cell membrane integrity. Considerable efforts are being directed towards acceleration of image acquisitions using a variety of approaches, from the extraction of fat content and water T2 maps from one single acquisition to partial matrices acquisition schemes. Spectacular decreases in examination time are expected in the near future. They will reinforce the attractiveness of NMR outcome measures and will further facilitate their integration in clinical research trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierre G Carlier
- Institute of Myology, Pitie-Salpetriere University Hospital, Paris, France.,CEA, DSV, I2BM, MIRCen, NMR Laboratory, Paris, France.,National Academy of Sciences, United Institute for Informatics Problems, Minsk, Belarus
| | - Benjamin Marty
- Institute of Myology, Pitie-Salpetriere University Hospital, Paris, France.,CEA, DSV, I2BM, MIRCen, NMR Laboratory, Paris, France
| | - Olivier Scheidegger
- Institute of Myology, Pitie-Salpetriere University Hospital, Paris, France.,Support Center for Advanced Neuroimaging (SCAN), Institute of Diagnostic and Interventional Neuroradiology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, and University of Bern, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Eduard Snezhko
- National Academy of Sciences, United Institute for Informatics Problems, Minsk, Belarus
| | - Dmitry Vlodavets
- N.I. Prirogov Russian National Medical Research University, Clinical Research Institute of Pediatrics, Moscow, Russian Federation
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Jain HV, Boehler JF, Nagaraju K, Beaucage SL. Synthesis, Characterization, and Function of an RNA-Based Transfection Reagent. CURRENT PROTOCOLS IN NUCLEIC ACID CHEMISTRY 2018; 72:4.81.1-4.81.29. [PMID: 29927123 PMCID: PMC6020023 DOI: 10.1002/cpnc.51] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
A synthetic 8-mer, amphipathic, trans-acting poly-2'-O-methyluridylic thiophosphate triester RNA element (2'-OMeUtaPS) can be prepared using solid-phase synthesis protocols. 2'-OMeUtaPS efficiently mediates the delivery of uncharged polyA-tailed phosphorodiamidate morpholino (PMO) sequences in HeLa pLuc 705 cells, as evidenced by flow cytometry measurements. In this cell line, 2'-OMeUtaPS-mediated transfection of an antisense polyA-tailed PMO sequence induces alternative splicing of an aberrant luciferase pre-mRNA splice site, leading to restoration of functional luciferase, as quantitatively measured using a typical luciferase assay. 2'-OMeUtaPS is also potent at delivering an uncharged antisense polyA-tailed PMO sequence in muscle cells of the mdx mouse model of muscular dystrophy; targeting the polyA-tailed PMO sequence against a splice site of the pre-mRNA encoding mutated dystrophin triggers an alternate splicing event that results in excision of the mutated exon (exon 23) from the pre-mRNA and production of functional dystrophin, as demonstrated by agarose gel electrophoresis. © 2018 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harsh V Jain
- Laboratory of Biological Chemistry, Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, Maryland
| | - Jessica F Boehler
- Research Center for Genetic Medicine, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia
- The Institute for Biomedical Sciences, The George Washington University, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Kanneboyina Nagaraju
- Research Center for Genetic Medicine, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Binghamton University, Binghamton, New York
| | - Serge L Beaucage
- Laboratory of Biological Chemistry, Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, Maryland
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Imbriano C, Molinari S. Alternative Splicing of Transcription Factors Genes in Muscle Physiology and Pathology. Genes (Basel) 2018; 9:genes9020107. [PMID: 29463057 PMCID: PMC5852603 DOI: 10.3390/genes9020107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2018] [Revised: 02/10/2018] [Accepted: 02/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Skeletal muscle formation is a multi-step process that is governed by complex networks of transcription factors. The regulation of their functions is in turn multifaceted, including several mechanisms, among them alternative splicing (AS) plays a primary role. On the other hand, altered AS has a role in the pathogenesis of numerous muscular pathologies. Despite these premises, the causal role played by the altered splicing pattern of transcripts encoding myogenic transcription factors in neuromuscular diseases has been neglected so far. In this review, we systematically investigate what has been described about the AS patterns of transcription factors both in the physiology of the skeletal muscle formation process and in neuromuscular diseases, in the hope that this may be useful in re-evaluating the potential role of altered splicing of transcription factors in such diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carol Imbriano
- University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Department of Life Sciences, Modena, Italy.
| | - Susanna Molinari
- University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Department of Life Sciences, Modena, Italy.
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Investigation of New Morpholino Oligomers to Increase Survival Motor Neuron Protein Levels in Spinal Muscular Atrophy. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19010167. [PMID: 29316633 PMCID: PMC5796116 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19010167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2017] [Revised: 12/22/2017] [Accepted: 01/02/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is an autosomal-recessive childhood motor neuron disease and the main genetic cause of infant mortality. SMA is caused by deletions or mutations in the survival motor neuron 1 (SMN1) gene, which results in SMN protein deficiency. Only one approved drug has recently become available and allows for the correction of aberrant splicing of the paralogous SMN2 gene by antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), leading to production of full-length SMN protein. We have already demonstrated that a sequence of an ASO variant, Morpholino (MO), is particularly suitable because of its safety and efficacy profile and is both able to increase SMN levels and rescue the murine SMA phenotype. Here, we optimized this strategy by testing the efficacy of four new MO sequences targeting SMN2. Two out of the four new MO sequences showed better efficacy in terms of SMN protein production both in SMA induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and SMAΔ7 mice. Further, the effect was enhanced when different MO sequences were administered in combination. Our data provide an important insight for MO-based treatment for SMA. Optimization of the target sequence and validation of a treatment based on a combination of different MO sequences could support further pre-clinical studies and the progression toward future clinical trials.
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Rinaldi C, Wood MJA. Antisense oligonucleotides: the next frontier for treatment of neurological disorders. Nat Rev Neurol 2017; 14:9-21. [PMID: 29192260 DOI: 10.1038/nrneurol.2017.148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 471] [Impact Index Per Article: 67.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) were first discovered to influence RNA processing and modulate protein expression over two decades ago; however, progress translating these agents into the clinic has been hampered by inadequate target engagement, insufficient biological activity, and off-target toxic effects. Over the years, novel chemical modifications of ASOs have been employed to address these issues. These modifications, in combination with elucidation of the mechanism of action of ASOs and improved clinical trial design, have provided momentum for the translation of ASO-based strategies into therapies. Many neurological conditions lack an effective treatment; however, as research progressively disentangles the pathogenic mechanisms of these diseases, they provide an ideal platform to test ASO-based strategies. This steady progress reached a pinnacle in the past few years with approvals of ASOs for the treatment of spinal muscular atrophy and Duchenne muscular dystrophy, which represent landmarks in a field in which disease-modifying therapies were virtually non-existent. With the rapid development of improved next-generation ASOs toward clinical application, this technology now holds the potential to have a dramatic effect on the treatment of many neurological conditions in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Rinaldi
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, Le Gros Clark Building, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3QX, UK
| | - Matthew J A Wood
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, Le Gros Clark Building, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3QX, UK
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Jain HV, Boehler JF, Verthelyi D, Nagaraju K, Beaucage SL. An amphipathic trans-acting phosphorothioate RNA element delivers an uncharged phosphorodiamidate morpholino sequence in mdx mouse myotubes. RSC Adv 2017; 7:42519-42528. [PMID: 28989703 PMCID: PMC5625301 DOI: 10.1039/c7ra04247g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
An efficient method for the delivery of uncharged polyA-tailed phosphorodiamidate morpholino sequences (PMO) in mammalian cells consists of employing a synthetic 8-mer amphipathic trans-acting poly-2'-O-methyluridylic thiophosphate triester element (2'-OMeUtaPS) as a transfection reagent. Unlike the dTtaPS DNA-based element, this RNA element is potent at delivering polyA-tailed PMO sequences to HeLa pLuc 705 cells or to myotube muscle cells. However, much like dTtaPS, the 2'-OMeUtaPS-mediated internalization of PMO sequences occurs through an energy-dependent mechanism; macropinocytosis appears to be the predominant endocytic pathway used for cellular uptake. The transfected PMO sequences induce alternate splicing of either the pre-mRNA encoding luciferase in HeLa pLuc 705 cells or the excision of exon 23 from the pre-mRNA encoding dystrophin in myotube muscle cells of the mdx mouse model of muscular dystrophy with an efficiency comparable to that of commercial cationic lipid reagents but without detrimental cytotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- H V Jain
- Division of Biotechnology Review and Research IV, CDER, FDA, 10903 New Hampshire Avenue, Silver Spring, Maryland 20933, USA
| | - J F Boehler
- Research Center for Genetic Medicine, Children's National Medical Center, 111 Michigan Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20010, USA
- The Institute for Biomedical Sciences, The George Washington University, Washington, DC 20037, USA
| | - D Verthelyi
- Division of Biotechnology Review and Research III, CDER, FDA, 10903 New Hampshire Avenue, Silver Spring, Maryland 20933, USA
| | - K Nagaraju
- Research Center for Genetic Medicine, Children's National Medical Center, 111 Michigan Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20010, USA
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, AB-G34, Binghamton University, P.O. Box 6000, Binghamton, New York 13902, USA
| | - S L Beaucage
- Division of Biotechnology Review and Research IV, CDER, FDA, 10903 New Hampshire Avenue, Silver Spring, Maryland 20933, USA
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Marrosu E, Ala P, Muntoni F, Zhou H. Gapmer Antisense Oligonucleotides Suppress the Mutant Allele of COL6A3 and Restore Functional Protein in Ullrich Muscular Dystrophy. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2017; 8:416-427. [PMID: 28918041 PMCID: PMC5537204 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2017.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2017] [Revised: 07/04/2017] [Accepted: 07/05/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Dominant-negative mutations in the genes that encode the three major α chains of collagen type VI, COL6A1, COL6A2, and COL6A3, account for more than 50% of Ullrich congenital muscular dystrophy patients and nearly all Bethlem myopathy patients. Gapmer antisense oligonucleotides (AONs) are usually used for gene silencing by stimulating RNA cleavage through the recruitment of an endogenous endonuclease known as RNase H to cleave the RNA strand of a DNA-RNA duplex. In this study, we exploited the application of the allele-specific silencing approach by gapmer AON as a potential therapy for Collagen-VI-related congenital muscular dystrophy (COL6-CMD). A series of AONs were designed to selectively target an 18-nt heterozygous genomic deletion in exon 15 of COL6A3 at the mRNA and pre-mRNA level. We showed that gapmer AONs can selectively suppress the expression of mutant transcripts at both pre-mRNA and mRNA levels, and that the latter strategy had a far stronger efficiency than the former. More importantly, we found that silencing of the mutant transcripts by gapmer AONs increased the deposition of collagen VI protein into the extracellular matrix, thus restoring functional protein production. Our findings provide a clear proof of concept for AON allele-specific silencing as a therapeutic approach for COL6-CMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Marrosu
- Dubowitz Neuromuscular Centre, Molecular Neurosciences Section, Developmental Neurosciences Programme, University College London, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guilford Street, London WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Pierpaolo Ala
- Dubowitz Neuromuscular Centre, Molecular Neurosciences Section, Developmental Neurosciences Programme, University College London, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guilford Street, London WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Francesco Muntoni
- Dubowitz Neuromuscular Centre, Molecular Neurosciences Section, Developmental Neurosciences Programme, University College London, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guilford Street, London WC1N 1EH, UK.
| | - Haiyan Zhou
- Dubowitz Neuromuscular Centre, Molecular Neurosciences Section, Developmental Neurosciences Programme, University College London, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guilford Street, London WC1N 1EH, UK.
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Liu W, Li X, Liao S, Dou K, Zhang Y. Activation of the intronic cryptic 5' splice site depends on its distance to the upstream cassette exon. Gene 2017; 619:30-36. [PMID: 28322992 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2017.03.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2017] [Revised: 03/13/2017] [Accepted: 03/17/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Splice site selection is a key step that determines the mRNA isoforms generated from a single transcript. The large diversity in splice site sequences emphasizes the plasticity of splice site recognition and selection. In this report, a cell-based reporter system using a SMN1/2 cassette exon was applied to study the roles governing the activation of a cryptic 5'SS from the intron 4 of the CT/CGRP gene. We found that the cryptic site was activated when placed within 124nt downstream the cassette exon, and the level of activation was negatively correlated with its distance from the exon. In addition, activation was not affected by PTB but was eliminated by an insertion extending the exon length. Activated cryptic 5'SSs in intron or exon could override the original alternative 5'SS, obeying the U1 base-pairing rule. These results suggest that the exon length itself could represent a factor in determining the splice site selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Xia Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Shengjie Liao
- Center for Genome Analysis, ABLife Inc., Optics Valley International Biomedical Park, Building 9-4, East Lake High-Tech Development Zone, 388 Gaoxin 2nd Road, Wuhan, Hubei 430075, China; Laboratory for Genome Regulation and Human Heath, ABLife Inc., Optics Valley International Biomedical Park, Building 9-4, East Lake High-Tech Development Zone, 388 Gaoxin 2nd Road, Wuhan, Hubei 430075, China
| | - Kefeng Dou
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China.
| | - Yi Zhang
- Center for Genome Analysis, ABLife Inc., Optics Valley International Biomedical Park, Building 9-4, East Lake High-Tech Development Zone, 388 Gaoxin 2nd Road, Wuhan, Hubei 430075, China; Laboratory for Genome Regulation and Human Heath, ABLife Inc., Optics Valley International Biomedical Park, Building 9-4, East Lake High-Tech Development Zone, 388 Gaoxin 2nd Road, Wuhan, Hubei 430075, China.
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41
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RNA splicing in human disease and in the clinic. Clin Sci (Lond) 2017; 131:355-368. [PMID: 28202748 DOI: 10.1042/cs20160211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2016] [Revised: 12/06/2016] [Accepted: 12/15/2016] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Defects at the level of the pre-mRNA splicing process represent a major cause of human disease. Approximately 15-50% of all human disease mutations have been shown to alter functioning of basic and auxiliary splicing elements. These elements are required to ensure proper processing of pre-mRNA splicing molecules, with their disruption leading to misprocessing of the pre-mRNA molecule and disease. The splicing process is a complex process, with much still to be uncovered before we are able to accurately predict whether a reported genomic sequence variant (GV) represents a splicing-associated disease mutation or a harmless polymorphism. Furthermore, even when a mutation is correctly identified as affecting the splicing process, there still remains the difficulty of providing an exact evaluation of the potential impact on disease onset, severity and duration. In this review, we provide a brief overview of splicing diagnostic methodologies, from in silico bioinformatics approaches to wet lab in vitro and in vivo systems to evaluate splicing efficiencies. In particular, we provide an overview of how the latest developments in high-throughput sequencing can be applied to the clinic, and are already changing clinical approaches.
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Lehto T, Ezzat K, Wood MJA, El Andaloussi S. Peptides for nucleic acid delivery. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2016; 106:172-182. [PMID: 27349594 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2016.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 144] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2016] [Revised: 06/08/2016] [Accepted: 06/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Nucleic acids and their synthetic oligonucleotide (ON) analogs are a group of gene therapeutic compounds which hold enormous clinical potential. Despite their undoubted potential, clinical translation of these molecules, however, has been largely held back by their limited bioavailability in the target tissues/cells. To overcome this, many different drug delivery systems have been devised. Among others, short delivery peptides, called cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs), have been demonstrated to allow for efficient delivery of nucleic acids and their ON analogs, in both cell culture and animal models. In this review, we provide brief overview of the latest advances in nucleic acid delivery with CPPs, covering the two main vectorization strategies, covalent conjugation and nanoparticle formation-based approach. In conclusion, CPP-based drug delivery systems have the capacity to overcome the hurdle of delivery and thus have the potential to facilitate the clinical translation of nucleic acid-based therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taavi Lehto
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm SE-171 77, Sweden; Institute of Technology, University of Tartu, Nooruse 1, 50411 Tartu, Estonia.
| | - Kariem Ezzat
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm SE-171 77, Sweden
| | - Matthew J A Wood
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy, and Genetics, University of Oxford, OX13QX Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Samir El Andaloussi
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm SE-171 77, Sweden; Department of Physiology, Anatomy, and Genetics, University of Oxford, OX13QX Oxford, United Kingdom
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Abstract
Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) such as miRNAs and long noncoding RNAs modulate gene transcription in response to environmental stressors and other stimuli. A role for ncRNAs in muscle pathologies has been demonstrated and further evidence suggests that ncRNAs also play a role in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). Studies investigating the differential expression of miRNAs in biological fluids between DMD patients and models of dystrophin deficiency (the MDX mouse model, canine models of DMD) and controls have been published, as these have a role in fibrosis. Long noncoding RNAs are differentially expressed in DMD patients and may, in part, have a mechanism of action via targeting of miRNAs. Although many of these recent findings need to be confirmed, ncRNAs may prove to be useful as potential biomarkers of disease. However, their use as therapeutic targets in DMD remains unclear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark M Perry
- The Dubowitz Neuromuscular Centre, Molecular Neurosciences Section, Developmental Neurosciences Programme, UCL Institute of Child Health, 30 Guildford Street, London, WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Francesco Muntoni
- The Dubowitz Neuromuscular Centre, Molecular Neurosciences Section, Developmental Neurosciences Programme, UCL Institute of Child Health, 30 Guildford Street, London, WC1N 1EH, UK
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Abstract
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a recessive lethal inherited muscular dystrophy caused by mutations in the gene encoding dystrophin, a protein required for muscle fibre integrity. So far, many approaches have been tested from the traditional gene addition to newer advanced approaches based on manipulation of the cellular machinery either at the gene transcription, mRNA processing or translation levels. Unfortunately, despite all these efforts, no efficient treatments for DMD are currently available. In this review, we highlight the most advanced therapeutic strategies under investigation as potential DMD treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayder Abdul-Razak
- School of Biological Sciences, Royal Holloway, University of London, Egham, Surrey, TW20 0EX, UK
| | - Alberto Malerba
- School of Biological Sciences, Royal Holloway, University of London, Egham, Surrey, TW20 0EX, UK
| | - George Dickson
- School of Biological Sciences, Royal Holloway, University of London, Egham, Surrey, TW20 0EX, UK
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Modified Antisense Oligonucleotides and Their Analogs in Therapy of Neuromuscular Diseases. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-34175-0_11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
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Nizzardo M, Simone C, Rizzo F, Ulzi G, Ramirez A, Rizzuti M, Bordoni A, Bucchia M, Gatti S, Bresolin N, Comi GP, Corti S. Morpholino-mediated SOD1 reduction ameliorates an amyotrophic lateral sclerosis disease phenotype. Sci Rep 2016; 6:21301. [PMID: 26878886 PMCID: PMC4754711 DOI: 10.1038/srep21301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2015] [Accepted: 01/21/2016] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurotoxicity due to the accumulation of mutant proteins is thought to drive pathogenesis in neurodegenerative diseases. Mutations in superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) are linked to familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (fALS); these mutations result in progressive motor neuron death through one or more acquired toxicities. Interestingly, SOD1 is not only responsible for fALS but may also play a significant role in sporadic ALS; therefore, SOD1 represents a promising therapeutic target. Here, we report slowed disease progression, improved neuromuscular function, and increased survival in an in vivo ALS model following therapeutic delivery of morpholino oligonucleotides (MOs) designed to reduce the synthesis of human SOD1. Neuropathological analysis demonstrated increased motor neuron and axon numbers and a remarkable reduction in astrogliosis and microgliosis. To test this strategy in a human model, we treated human fALS induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived motor neurons with MOs; these cells exhibited increased survival and reduced expression of apoptotic markers. Our data demonstrated the efficacy of MO-mediated therapy in mouse and human ALS models, setting the stage for human clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Nizzardo
- Dino Ferrari Centre, Neuroscience Section, Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation (DEPT), University of Milan, Neurology Unit, IRCCS Foundation Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - C. Simone
- Dino Ferrari Centre, Neuroscience Section, Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation (DEPT), University of Milan, Neurology Unit, IRCCS Foundation Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - F. Rizzo
- Dino Ferrari Centre, Neuroscience Section, Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation (DEPT), University of Milan, Neurology Unit, IRCCS Foundation Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - G. Ulzi
- Dino Ferrari Centre, Neuroscience Section, Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation (DEPT), University of Milan, Neurology Unit, IRCCS Foundation Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - A. Ramirez
- Dino Ferrari Centre, Neuroscience Section, Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation (DEPT), University of Milan, Neurology Unit, IRCCS Foundation Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - M. Rizzuti
- Dino Ferrari Centre, Neuroscience Section, Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation (DEPT), University of Milan, Neurology Unit, IRCCS Foundation Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - A. Bordoni
- Dino Ferrari Centre, Neuroscience Section, Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation (DEPT), University of Milan, Neurology Unit, IRCCS Foundation Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - M. Bucchia
- Dino Ferrari Centre, Neuroscience Section, Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation (DEPT), University of Milan, Neurology Unit, IRCCS Foundation Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - S. Gatti
- Centro di Ricerche Chirurgiche Precliniche, IRCCS Foundation Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico; Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation (DEPT), University of Milan, 20122 Milano, Italy
| | - N. Bresolin
- Dino Ferrari Centre, Neuroscience Section, Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation (DEPT), University of Milan, Neurology Unit, IRCCS Foundation Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - G. P. Comi
- Dino Ferrari Centre, Neuroscience Section, Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation (DEPT), University of Milan, Neurology Unit, IRCCS Foundation Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - S. Corti
- Dino Ferrari Centre, Neuroscience Section, Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation (DEPT), University of Milan, Neurology Unit, IRCCS Foundation Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
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Effect of combined systemic and local morpholino treatment on the spinal muscular atrophy Δ7 mouse model phenotype. Clin Ther 2016; 36:340-56.e5. [PMID: 24636820 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinthera.2014.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2013] [Revised: 01/22/2014] [Accepted: 02/07/2014] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a fatal motor neuron disease of childhood that is caused by mutations in the SMN1 gene. Currently, no effective treatment is available. One possible therapeutic approach is the use of antisense oligos (ASOs) to redirect the splicing of the paralogous gene SMN2, thus increasing functional SMN protein production. Various ASOs with different chemical properties are suitable for these applications, including a morpholino oligomer (MO) variant with a particularly excellent safety and efficacy profile. OBJECTIVE We investigated a 25-nt MO sequence targeting the negative intronic splicing silencer (ISS-N1) 10 to 34 region. METHODS We administered a 25-nt MO sequence against the ISS-N1 region of SMN2 (HSMN2Ex7D[-10-34]) in the SMAΔ7 mouse model and evaluated the effect and neuropathologic phenotype. We tested different concentrations (from 2 to 24 nM) and delivery protocols (intracerebroventricular injection, systemic injection, or both). We evaluated the treatment efficacy regarding SMN levels, survival, neuromuscular phenotype, and neuropathologic features. RESULTS We found that a 25-nt MO sequence against the ISS-N1 region of SMN2 (HSMN2Ex7D[-10-34]) exhibited superior efficacy in transgenic SMAΔ7 mice compared with previously described sequences. In our experiments, the combination of local and systemic administration of MO (bare or conjugated to octaguanidine) was the most effective approach for increasing full-length SMN expression, leading to robust improvement in neuropathologic features and survival. Moreover, we found that several small nuclear RNAs were deregulated in SMA mice and that their levels were restored by MO treatment. CONCLUSION These results indicate that MO-mediated SMA therapy is efficacious and can result in phenotypic rescue, providing important insights for further development of ASO-based therapeutic strategies in SMA patients.
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Mendell JR, Goemans N, Lowes LP, Alfano LN, Berry K, Shao J, Kaye EM, Mercuri E. Longitudinal effect of eteplirsen versus historical control on ambulation in Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Ann Neurol 2016; 79:257-71. [PMID: 26573217 PMCID: PMC5064753 DOI: 10.1002/ana.24555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 374] [Impact Index Per Article: 46.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2015] [Revised: 11/03/2015] [Accepted: 11/03/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Objective To continue evaluation of the long‐term efficacy and safety of eteplirsen, a phosphorodiamidate morpholino oligomer designed to skip DMD exon 51 in patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). Three‐year progression of eteplirsen‐treated patients was compared to matched historical controls (HC). Methods Ambulatory DMD patients who were ≥7 years old and amenable to exon 51 skipping were randomized to eteplirsen (30/50mg/kg) or placebo for 24 weeks. Thereafter, all received eteplirsen on an open‐label basis. The primary functional assessment in this study was the 6‐Minute Walk Test (6MWT). Respiratory muscle function was assessed by pulmonary function testing (PFT). Longitudinal natural history data were used for comparative analysis of 6MWT performance at baseline and months 12, 24, and 36. Patients were matched to the eteplirsen group based on age, corticosteroid use, and genotype. Results At 36 months, eteplirsen‐treated patients (n = 12) demonstrated a statistically significant advantage of 151m (p < 0.01) on 6MWT and experienced a lower incidence of loss of ambulation in comparison to matched HC (n = 13) amenable to exon 51 skipping. PFT results remained relatively stable in eteplirsen‐treated patients. Eteplirsen was well tolerated. Analysis of HC confirmed the previously observed change in disease trajectory at age 7 years, and more severe progression was observed in patients with mutations amenable to exon skipping than in those not amenable. The subset of patients amenable to exon 51 skipping showed a more severe disease course than those amenable to any exon skipping. Interpretation Over 3 years of follow‐up, eteplirsen‐treated patients showed a slower rate of decline in ambulation assessed by 6MWT compared to untreated matched HC. Ann Neurol 2016;79:257–271
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerry R Mendell
- Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH.,Department of Pediatrics and Neurology, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH.,Paul D. Wellstone Muscular Dystrophy Cooperative Research Center, Rochester, NY
| | | | - Linda P Lowes
- Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH.,Paul D. Wellstone Muscular Dystrophy Cooperative Research Center, Rochester, NY
| | - Lindsay N Alfano
- Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH.,Paul D. Wellstone Muscular Dystrophy Cooperative Research Center, Rochester, NY
| | - Katherine Berry
- Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH.,Paul D. Wellstone Muscular Dystrophy Cooperative Research Center, Rochester, NY
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49
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Tedesco FS. Human artificial chromosomes for Duchenne muscular dystrophy and beyond: challenges and hopes. Chromosome Res 2015; 23:135-41. [PMID: 25596829 DOI: 10.1007/s10577-014-9460-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Safe and efficacious vectors able to carry large or several transgenes are of key importance for gene therapy. Human artificial chromosomes can fulfil this essential requirement; moreover, they do not integrate into the host genome. However, drawbacks such as the low efficiency of chromosome transfer and their relatively complex engineering still limit their widespread use. In this article, I summarise the key steps that brought human artificial chromosomes into preclinical research for Duchenne muscular dystrophy, an X-linked, monogenic disorder. I will also review possible future pre-clinical and clinical perspectives for this technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Saverio Tedesco
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, 21 University Street, London, WC1E 6DE, UK,
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50
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Antisense oligonucleotide drugs for Duchenne muscular dystrophy: how far have we come and what does the future hold? Future Med Chem 2015; 7:1631-5. [PMID: 26423833 DOI: 10.4155/fmc.15.116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
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