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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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Mirzaei R, Karampoor S, Korotkova NL. The emerging role of miRNA-122 in infectious diseases: Mechanisms and potential biomarkers. Pathol Res Pract 2023; 249:154725. [PMID: 37544130 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2023.154725] [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: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
microRNAs (miRNAs) are small, non-coding RNA molecules that play crucial regulatory roles in numerous cellular processes. Recent investigations have highlighted the significant involvement of miRNA-122 (miR-122) in the pathogenesis of infectious diseases caused by diverse pathogens, encompassing viral, bacterial, and parasitic infections. In the context of viral infections, miR-122 exerts regulatory control over viral replication by binding to the viral genome and modulating the host's antiviral response. For instance, in hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, miR-122 restricts viral replication, while HBV, in turn, suppresses miR-122 expression. Conversely, miR-122 interacts with the hepatitis C virus (HCV) genome, facilitating viral replication. Regarding bacterial infections, miR-122 has been found to regulate host immune responses by influencing inflammatory cytokine production and phagocytosis. In Vibrio anguillarum infections, there is a significant reduction in miR-122 expression, contributing to the pathophysiology of bacterial infections. Toll-like receptor 14 (TLR14) has been identified as a novel target gene of miR-122, affecting inflammatory and immune responses. In the context of parasitic infections, miR-122 plays a crucial role in regulating host lipid metabolism and immune responses. For example, during Leishmania infection, miR-122-containing extracellular vesicles from liver cells are unable to enter infected macrophages, leading to a suppression of the inflammatory response. Furthermore, miR-122 exhibits promise as a potential biomarker for various infectious diseases. Its expression level in body fluids, particularly in serum and plasma, correlates with disease severity and treatment response in patients affected by HCV, HBV, and tuberculosis. This paper also discusses the potential of miR-122 as a biomarker in infectious diseases. In summary, this review provides a comprehensive and insightful overview of the emerging role of miR-122 in infectious diseases, detailing its mechanism of action and potential implications for the development of novel therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rasoul Mirzaei
- Venom and Biotherapeutics Molecules Lab, Medical Biotechnology Department, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sajad Karampoor
- Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Nadezhda Lenoktovna Korotkova
- I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Russia; Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education "Privolzhsky Research Medical University" of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation (FSBEI HE PRMU MOH Russia), Russia
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Emanuelson C, Ankenbruck N, Kumbhare R, Thomas M, Connelly C, Baktash Y, Randall G, Deiters A. Transcriptional Inhibition of MicroRNA miR-122 by Small Molecules Reduces Hepatitis C Virus Replication in Liver Cells. J Med Chem 2022; 65:16338-16352. [PMID: 36449366 PMCID: PMC9942140 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c01141] [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] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are noncoding RNA molecules of 22-24 nucleotides that are estimated to regulate thousands of genes in humans, and their dysregulation has been implicated in many diseases. MicroRNA-122 (miR-122) is the most abundant miRNA in the liver and has been linked to the development of hepatocellular carcinoma and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Its role in these diseases renders miR-122 a potential target for small-molecule therapeutics. Here, we report the discovery of a new sulfonamide class of small-molecule miR-122 inhibitors from a high-throughput screen using a luciferase-based reporter assay. Structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies and secondary assays led to the development of potent and selective miR-122 inhibitors. Preliminary mechanism-of-action studies suggest a role in the promoter-specific transcriptional inhibition of miR-122 expression through direct binding to the liver-enriched transcription factor hepatocyte nuclear factor 4α. Importantly, the developed inhibitors significantly reduce HCV replication in human liver cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cole Emanuelson
- Department of Chemistry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15260, United States
| | - Nicholas Ankenbruck
- Department of Chemistry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15260, United States
| | - Rohan Kumbhare
- Department of Chemistry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15260, United States
| | - Meryl Thomas
- Department of Chemistry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15260, United States
| | - Colleen Connelly
- Department of Chemistry, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695, United States
| | - Yasmine Baktash
- Department of Microbiology, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60637, United States
| | - Glenn Randall
- Department of Microbiology, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60637, United States
| | - Alexander Deiters
- Department of Chemistry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15260, United States
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Role of Different Types of miRNAs in Some Cardiovascular Diseases and Therapy-Based miRNA Strategies: A Mini Review. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 2022:2738119. [PMID: 36187500 PMCID: PMC9519277 DOI: 10.1155/2022/2738119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease has been extensively studied. miRNAs have been highlighted as an important physiological regulator for activities like cardiac protection. miRNAs are present in the circulation, and they have been investigated as physiological markers, especially in the condition of heart failure. However, there is less compelling verification that miRNAs can outperform traditional biomarkers. However, clinical evidence is still required. In this review article, we explored the feasibility of miRNAs as diagnostic biomarkers for heart failure in a systematic study. Searching in the PubMed database to identify miRNA molecules that are differentially expressed between groups of patients with heart failure or heart disease and controls, throughout the investigation, we discovered no significant overlap in differentially expressed miRNAs. Only four miRNAs (“miR-126,” “miR-150-5p,” “hsa-miR-233,” and “miR-423-5p”) were differentially expressed. Results from our review show that there is not enough evidence to support the use of miRNAs as biomarkers in clinical settings.
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Panigrahi M, Palmer MA, Wilson JA. MicroRNA-122 Regulation of HCV Infections: Insights from Studies of miR-122-Independent Replication. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11091005. [PMID: 36145436 PMCID: PMC9504723 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11091005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the advancement in antiviral therapy, Hepatitis C remains a global health challenge and one of the leading causes of hepatitis related deaths worldwide. Hepatitis C virus, the causative agent, is a positive strand RNA virus that requires a liver specific microRNA called miR-122 for its replication. Unconventional to the canonical role of miRNAs in translation suppression by binding to 3′Untranslated Region (UTR) of messenger RNAs, miR-122 binds to two sites on the 5′UTR of viral genome and promotes viral propagation. In this review, we describe the unique relationship between the liver specific microRNA and HCV, the current knowledge on the mechanisms by which the virus uses miR-122 to promote the virus life cycle, and how miR-122 impacts viral tropism and pathogenesis. We will also discuss the use of anti-miR-122 therapy and its impact on viral evolution of miR-122-independent replication. This review further provides insight into how viruses manipulate host factors at the initial stage of infection to establish a successful infection.
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Roles of microRNAs in Hepatitis C Virus Replication and Pathogenesis. Viruses 2022; 14:v14081776. [PMID: 36016398 PMCID: PMC9413378 DOI: 10.3390/v14081776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2022] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is associated with the development of chronic liver diseases, e.g., fibrosis, cirrhosis, even hepatocellular carcinoma, and/or extra-hepatic diseases such as diabetes. As an obligatory intracellular pathogen, HCV absolutely relies on host cells to propagate and is able to modulate host cellular factors in favor of its replication. Indeed, lots of cellular factors, including microRNAs (miRNAs), have been identified to be dysregulated during HCV infection. MiRNAs are small noncoding RNAs that regulate protein synthesis of their targeting mRNAs at the post-transcriptional level, usually by suppressing their target gene expression. The miRNAs dysregulated during HCV infection could directly or indirectly modulate HCV replication and/or induce liver diseases. Regulatory mechanisms of various miRNAs in HCV replication and pathogenesis have been characterized. Some dysregulated miRNAs have been considered as the biomarkers for the detection of HCV infection and/or HCV-related diseases. In this review, we intend to briefly summarize the identified miRNAs functioning at HCV replication and pathogenesis, focusing on the recent developments.
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Badami E, Busà R, Douradinha B, Russelli G, Miceli V, Gallo A, Zito G, Conaldi PG, Iannolo G. Hepatocellular carcinoma, hepatitis C virus infection and miRNA involvement: Perspectives for new therapeutic approaches. World J Gastroenterol 2022; 28:2417-2428. [PMID: 35979260 PMCID: PMC9258280 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v28.i22.2417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is the principal etiology of cirrhosis and, ultimately, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). At present, approximately 71 million people are chronically infected with HCV, and 10%–20% of these are expected to develop severe liver complications throughout their lifetime. Scientific evidence has clearly shown the causal association between miRNAs, HCV infection and HCC. Although it is not completely clear whether miRNA dysregulation in HCC is the cause or the consequence of its development, variations in miRNA patterns have been described in different liver diseases, including HCC. Many studies have analyzed the importance of circulating miRNAs and their effect on cell proliferation and apoptosis. In this Review, we aim to summarize current knowledge on the association between miRNA, HCV and HCC from a diagnostic point of view, and also the potential implications for therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ester Badami
- Regenerative Medicine and Immunotherapy Area, Fondazione Ri.MED, Palermo 90127, Italy
| | - Rosalia Busà
- Department of Research, Mediterranean Institute for Transplantation and Advanced Specialized Therapies (IRCCS-ISMETT), Palermo 90127, Italy
| | - Bruno Douradinha
- Regenerative Medicine and Immunotherapy Area, Fondazione Ri.MED, Palermo 90127, Italy
| | - Giovanna Russelli
- Department of Research, Mediterranean Institute for Transplantation and Advanced Specialized Therapies (IRCCS-ISMETT), Palermo 90127, Italy
| | - Vitale Miceli
- Department of Research, Mediterranean Institute for Transplantation and Advanced Specialized Therapies (IRCCS-ISMETT), Palermo 90127, Italy
| | - Alessia Gallo
- Department of Research, Mediterranean Institute for Transplantation and Advanced Specialized Therapies (IRCCS-ISMETT), Palermo 90127, Italy
| | - Giovanni Zito
- Department of Research, Mediterranean Institute for Transplantation and Advanced Specialized Therapies (IRCCS-ISMETT), Palermo 90127, Italy
| | - Pier Giulio Conaldi
- Department of Research, Mediterranean Institute for Transplantation and Advanced Specialized Therapies (IRCCS-ISMETT), Palermo 90127, Italy
| | - Gioacchin Iannolo
- Department of Research, Mediterranean Institute for Transplantation and Advanced Specialized Therapies (IRCCS-ISMETT), Palermo 90127, Italy
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miR-122 affects both the initiation and maintenance of Hepatitis C Virus infections. J Virol 2021; 96:e0190321. [PMID: 34908444 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.01903-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
A liver-specific microRNA, miR-122, anneals to the HCV genomic 5' terminus and is essential for virus replication in cell culture. However, bicistronic HCV replicons and full length RNAs with specific mutations in the 5' UTR can replicate, albeit to low levels, without miR-122. In this study, we have identified that HCV RNAs lacking the structural gene region or having EMCV IRES-regulated translation had reduced requirements for miR-122. In addition, we found that a smaller proportion of cells supported miR-122-independent replication when compared a population of cells supporting miR-122-dependent replication, while viral protein levels per positive cell were similar. Further, the proportion of cells supporting miR-122-independent replication increased with the amount of viral RNA delivered, suggesting that establishment of miR-122-independent replication in a cell is affected by amount of viral RNA delivered. HCV RNAs replicating independent of miR-122 were not affected by supplementation with miR-122, suggesting that miR-122 is not essential for maintenance of a miR-122-independent HCV infection. However, miR-122 supplementation had a small positive impact on miR-122-dependent replication suggesting a minor role in enhancing ongoing virus RNA accumulation. We suggest that miR-122 functions primarily to initiate an HCV infection but has a minor influence on its maintenance, and we present a model in which miR-122 is required for replication complex formation at the beginning of an infection, and also supports new replication complex formation during ongoing infection and after infected cell division. IMPORTANCE: The mechanism by which miR-122 promotes the HCV life cycle is not well understood, and a role in directly promoting genome amplification is still debated. In this study, we have shown that miR-122 increases the rate of viral RNA accumulation and promotes the establishment of an HCV infection in a greater number of cells than in the absence of miR-122. However, we also confirm a minor role in promoting ongoing virus replication and propose a role in the initiation of new replication complexes throughout a virus infection. This study has implications for the use of anti-miR-122 as potential HCV therapy.
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Santana MS, Lopes R, Peron IH, Cruz CR, Gaspar AM, Costa PI. Natural Bioactive Compounds as Adjuvant Therapy for Hepatitis C Infection. CURRENT NUTRITION & FOOD SCIENCE 2021. [DOI: 10.2174/1573401316999201009152726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Background:
Hepatitis C virus infection is a significant global health burden, which
causes acute or chronic hepatitis. Acute hepatitis C is generally asymptomatic and progresses to
cure, while persistent infection can progress to chronic liver disease and extrahepatic manifestations.
Standard treatment is expensive, poorly tolerated, and has variable sustained virologic responses
amongst the different viral genotypes. New therapies involve direct acting antivirals; however,
it is also very expensive and may not be accessible for all patients worldwide. In order to provide
a complementary approach to the already existing therapies, natural bioactive compounds are
investigated as to their several biologic activities, such as direct antiviral properties against hepatitis
C, and effects on mitigating chronic progression of the disease, which include hepatoprotective,
antioxidant, anticarcinogenic and anti-inflammatory activities; additionally, these compounds present
advantages, as chemical diversity, low cost of production and milder or inexistent side effects.
Objective:
To present a broad perspective on hepatitis C infection, the chronic disease, and natural
compounds with promising anti-HCV activity. Methods: This review consists of a systematic review
study about the natural bioactive compounds as a potential therapy for hepatitis C infection.
Results:
The quest for natural products has yielded compounds with biologic activity, including viral
replication inhibition in vitro, demonstrating antiviral activity against hepatitis C.
Conclusion:
One of the greatest advantages of using natural molecules from plant extracts is the
low cost of production, not requiring chemical synthesis, which can lead to less expensive therapies
available to low and middle-income countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moema S. Santana
- Food and Nutrition Department, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara-SP, Brazil
| | - Rute Lopes
- Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Chemistry, Sao Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara-SP, Brazil
| | - Isabela H. Peron
- Food and Nutrition Department, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara-SP, Brazil
| | - Carla R. Cruz
- Food and Nutrition Department, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara-SP, Brazil
| | - Ana M.M. Gaspar
- Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Chemistry, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara-SP, Brazil
| | - Paulo I. Costa
- Food and Nutrition Department, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara-SP, Brazil
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Loureiro D, Tout I, Narguet S, Benazzouz SM, Mansouri A, Asselah T. miRNAs as Potential Biomarkers for Viral Hepatitis B and C. Viruses 2020; 12:E1440. [PMID: 33327640 PMCID: PMC7765125 DOI: 10.3390/v12121440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2020] [Revised: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Around 257 million people are living with hepatitis B virus (HBV) chronic infection and 71 million with hepatitis C virus (HCV) chronic infection. Both HBV and HCV infections can lead to liver complications such as cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). To take care of these chronically infected patients, one strategy is to diagnose the early stage of fibrosis in order to treat them as soon as possible to decrease the risk of HCC development. microRNAs (or miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs which regulate many cellular processes in metazoans. Their expressions were frequently modulated by up- or down-regulation during fibrosis progression. In the serum of patients with HBV chronic infection (CHB), miR-122 and miR-185 expressions are increased, while miR-29, -143, -21 and miR-223 expressions are decreased during fibrosis progression. In the serum of patients with HCV chronic infection (CHC), miR-143 and miR-223 expressions are increased, while miR-122 expression is decreased during fibrosis progression. This review aims to summarize current knowledge of principal miRNAs modulation involved in fibrosis progression during chronic hepatitis B/C infections. Furthermore, we also discuss the potential use of miRNAs as non-invasive biomarkers to diagnose fibrosis with the intention of prioritizing patients with advanced fibrosis for treatment and surveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Tarik Asselah
- Department of Hepatology, Université de Paris, CRI, INSERM UMR 1149, AP-HP Hôpital Beaujon, 92110 Clichy, France; (D.L.); (I.T.); (S.N.); (S.M.B.); (A.M.)
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The Role of the Liver-Specific microRNA, miRNA-122 in the HCV Replication Cycle. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21165677. [PMID: 32784807 PMCID: PMC7460827 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21165677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2020] [Revised: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) replication requires annealing of a liver specific microRNA, miR-122 to 2 sites on 5' untranslated region (UTR). While, microRNAs downregulate gene expression by binding to the 3' untranslated region of the target mRNA, in this case, the microRNA anneals to the 5'UTR of the viral genomes and upregulates the viral lifecycle. In this review, we explore the current understandings of the mechanisms by which miR-122 promotes the HCV lifecycle, and its contributions to pathogenesis. Annealing of miR-122 has been reported to (a) stimulate virus translation by promoting the formation of translationally active internal ribosome entry site (IRES) RNA structure, (b) stabilize the genome, and (c) induce viral genomic RNA replication. MiR-122 modulates lipid metabolism and suppresses tumor formation, and sequestration by HCV may influence virus pathogenesis. We also discuss the possible use of miR-122 as a biomarker for chronic hepatitis and as a therapeutic target. Finally, we discuss roles for miR-122 and other microRNAs in promoting other viruses.
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Kitabayashi J, Shirasaki T, Shimakami T, Nishiyama T, Welsch C, Funaki M, Murai K, Sumiyadorj A, Takatori H, Kitamura K, Kawaguchi K, Arai K, Yamashita T, Sakai Y, Yamashita T, Mizukoshi E, Honda M, Kaneko S. Upregulation of the Long Non-Coding RNA HULC by Hepatitis C Virus and its Regulation of Viral Replication. J Infect Dis 2020; 226:407-419. [PMID: 32515477 PMCID: PMC9417122 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiaa325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2020] [Accepted: 06/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Many long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have important roles in biological processes. The lncRNA HULC was found to be upregulated in human hepatoma tissues. HULC is thought to be involved in multiple steps of hepatoma development and progression; however, the relationship between HULC and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, which is a leading cause of hepatoma, remains unclear. Methods We examined the effect of HCV replication on HULC expression and the underlying mechanism using cell culture systems. Subsequently, we tested the effect of HULC suppression and overexpression on HCV replication. Finally, we examined the impact of HCV eradication on HULC expression using human liver tissue and blood samples. Results HCV replication increased HULC expression in cell cultures. A promoter assay showed that an HCV nonstructural protein, NS5A, increased HULC transcription. HULC suppression inhibited HCV replication; conversely, its overexpression enhanced HCV replication. These effects on HCV replication seemed to occur by the modification of HCV translation. Measurements from human liver and blood samples showed that HCV eradication significantly reduced HULC levels in the liver and blood. Conclusions HCV infection increases HULC expression in vitro and in vivo. HULC modulates HCV replication through an HCV internal ribosome entry site–directed translation step.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juria Kitabayashi
- Department of Gastroenterology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medicine, Takara-machi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Takayoshi Shirasaki
- Department of Gastroenterology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medicine, Takara-machi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Tetsuro Shimakami
- Department of Gastroenterology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medicine, Takara-machi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Tomoaki Nishiyama
- Advanced Science Research Center, Kanazawa University, Takara-machi, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Christoph Welsch
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University, Germany
| | - Masaya Funaki
- Department of Gastroenterology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medicine, Takara-machi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Kazuhisa Murai
- Department of Gastroenterology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medicine, Takara-machi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Ariunaa Sumiyadorj
- Department of Gastroenterology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medicine, Takara-machi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Hajime Takatori
- Department of Gastroenterology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medicine, Takara-machi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Kazuya Kitamura
- Department of Gastroenterology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medicine, Takara-machi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Kazunori Kawaguchi
- Department of Gastroenterology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medicine, Takara-machi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Kuniaki Arai
- Department of Gastroenterology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medicine, Takara-machi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Taro Yamashita
- Department of Gastroenterology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medicine, Takara-machi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Yoshio Sakai
- Department of Gastroenterology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medicine, Takara-machi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Yamashita
- Department of Gastroenterology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medicine, Takara-machi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Eishiro Mizukoshi
- Department of Gastroenterology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medicine, Takara-machi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Masao Honda
- Department of Gastroenterology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medicine, Takara-machi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Shuichi Kaneko
- Department of Gastroenterology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medicine, Takara-machi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
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Quemener AM, Bachelot L, Forestier A, Donnou-Fournet E, Gilot D, Galibert MD. The powerful world of antisense oligonucleotides: From bench to bedside. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS-RNA 2020; 11:e1594. [PMID: 32233021 PMCID: PMC9285911 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 128] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2019] [Revised: 02/12/2020] [Accepted: 02/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) represent a new and highly promising class of drugs for personalized medicine. In the last decade, major chemical developments and improvements of the backbone structure of ASOs have transformed them into true approved and commercialized drugs. ASOs target both DNA and RNA, including pre‐mRNA, mRNA, and ncRDA, based on sequence complementary. They are designed to be specific for each identified molecular and genetic alteration to restore a normal, physiological situation. Thus, the characterization of the underpinning mechanisms and alterations that sustain pathology is critical for accurate ASO‐design. ASOs can be used to cure both rare and common diseases, such as orphan genetic alterations and cancer. Through pioneering examples, this review shows the versatility of the mechanisms of action that provide ASOs with the potential capacity to achieve custom treatment, revolutionizing personalized medicine. This article is categorized under:RNA in Disease and Development > RNA in Disease RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > Small Molecule–RNA Interactions
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Affiliation(s)
- Anaïs M Quemener
- Univ Rennes, CNRS, IGDR (Institut de Génétique et Développement de Rennes)-UMR6290, ARC Foundation Labellized Team, Rennes, France
| | - Laura Bachelot
- Univ Rennes, CNRS, IGDR (Institut de Génétique et Développement de Rennes)-UMR6290, ARC Foundation Labellized Team, Rennes, France
| | - Anne Forestier
- Univ Rennes, CNRS, IGDR (Institut de Génétique et Développement de Rennes)-UMR6290, ARC Foundation Labellized Team, Rennes, France
| | - Emmanuelle Donnou-Fournet
- Univ Rennes, CNRS, IGDR (Institut de Génétique et Développement de Rennes)-UMR6290, ARC Foundation Labellized Team, Rennes, France
| | - David Gilot
- Univ Rennes, CNRS, IGDR (Institut de Génétique et Développement de Rennes)-UMR6290, ARC Foundation Labellized Team, Rennes, France
| | - Marie-Dominique Galibert
- Univ Rennes, CNRS, IGDR (Institut de Génétique et Développement de Rennes)-UMR6290, ARC Foundation Labellized Team, Rennes, France.,Department of Molecular Genetics and Genomic, CHU Rennes, Hospital-University of Rennes, Rennes, France
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Janković N, Trifunović Ristovski J, Vraneš M, Tot A, Petronijević J, Joksimović N, Stanojković T, Đorđić Crnogorac M, Petrović N, Boljević I, Matić IZ, Bogdanović GA, Mikov M, Bugarčić Z. Discovery of the Biginelli hybrids as novel caspase-9 activators in apoptotic machines: Lipophilicity, molecular docking study, influence on angiogenesis gene and miR-21 expression levels. Bioorg Chem 2019; 86:569-582. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2019.02.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2018] [Revised: 01/03/2019] [Accepted: 02/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Gong W, Guo X, Zhang Y. Depletion of MicroRNA-373 Represses the Replication of Hepatitis C Virus via Activation of Type 1 Interferon Response by Targeting IRF5. Yonsei Med J 2018; 59:1181-1189. [PMID: 30450852 PMCID: PMC6240574 DOI: 10.3349/ymj.2018.59.10.1181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2018] [Revised: 09/18/2018] [Accepted: 10/16/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Hepatitis C virus (HCV) poses a risk of chronic liver disease and threatens a significant number of people worldwide. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are linked to the regulation of hepatocarcinogenesis. Although miR-373 is required for HCV infection, the underlying mechanisms of miR-373 involvement in HCV replication remain elusive. MATERIALS AND METHODS Quantitative reverse transcription PCR assays were performed to detect the abundances of miR-373 and HCV RNA either in Huh 7.5 cells or liver biopsy specimens with HCV infection. Luciferase assay was employed to probe the interactions between miR-373 and interferon regulatory factor 5 (IRF5). Western blot was conducted to investigate the effect of miR-373 and IRF5 on HCV replication and activation of type 1 interferon (IFN) response in JFH1-infected Huh 7.5 cells. RESULTS HCV infection appeared to be caused by increased miR-373 expression. Addition of miR-373 promoted HCV RNA expression, while miR-373 depletion led to an inhibitive effect on HCV replication. Concordantly, IRF5, as a direct target, was limited by miR-373 in JFH1-infected Huh 7.5 cells. In addition, introduction of IRF5 protected HCV replication in the presence of abundant miR-373. Furthermore, the miR-373-mediated inhibitory effect on type 1 IFN response was ablated following IRF5 accumulation. CONCLUSION miR-373 abrogation reduced HCV replication via activation of type 1 IFN responses by targeting IRF5 in JFH1-infected Huh 7.5 cells, suggesting a promising therapeutic for treating HCV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weifeng Gong
- Department of Blood Transfusion, Xi'an Central Hospital, Xi'an, China.
| | - Xiaobo Guo
- Hematological Research Institute, Xi'an Central Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Yangmin Zhang
- Department of Blood Transfusion, Xi'an Central Hospital, Xi'an, China
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Ramirez S, Bukh J. Current status and future development of infectious cell-culture models for the major genotypes of hepatitis C virus: Essential tools in testing of antivirals and emerging vaccine strategies. Antiviral Res 2018; 158:264-287. [PMID: 30059723 DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2018.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2018] [Revised: 07/17/2018] [Accepted: 07/20/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
In this review, we summarize the relevant scientific advances that led to the development of infectious cell culture systems for hepatitis C virus (HCV) with the corresponding challenges and successes. We also provide an overview of how these systems have contributed to the study of antiviral compounds and their relevance for the development of a much-needed vaccine against this major human pathogen. An efficient infectious system to study HCV in vitro, using human hepatoma derived cells, has only been available since 2005, and was limited to a single isolate, named JFH1, until 2012. Successive developments have been slow and cumbersome, as each available system has been the result of a systematic effort for discovering adaptive mutations conferring culture replication and propagation to patient consensus clones that are inherently non-viable in vitro. High genetic heterogeneity is a paramount characteristic of this virus, and as such, it should preferably be reflected in basic, translational, and clinical studies. The limited number of efficient viral culture systems, in the context of the vast genetic diversity of HCV, continues to represent a major hindrance for the study of this virus, posing a significant barrier towards studies of antivirals (particularly of resistance) and for advancing vaccine development. Intensive research efforts, driven by isolate-specific culture adaptation, have only led to efficient full-length infectious culture systems for a few strains of HCV genotypes 1, 2, 3, and 6. Hence research aimed at identifying novel strategies that will permit universal culture of HCV will be needed to further our understanding of this unique virus causing 400 thousand deaths annually.
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Affiliation(s)
- Santseharay Ramirez
- Copenhagen Hepatitis C Program (CO-HEP), Department of Infectious Diseases, Hvidovre Hospital and Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jens Bukh
- Copenhagen Hepatitis C Program (CO-HEP), Department of Infectious Diseases, Hvidovre Hospital and Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark.
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Unexpected Replication Boost by Simeprevir for Simeprevir-Resistant Variants in Genotype 1a Hepatitis C Virus. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2018; 62:AAC.02601-17. [PMID: 29661883 DOI: 10.1128/aac.02601-17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2017] [Accepted: 04/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Simeprevir is a novel NS3/4A protease inhibitor (PI) of hepatitis C virus (HCV). The baseline polymorphism NS3-Q80K is frequently observed in genotype (GT) 1a HCV and often associated with treatment failure in simeprevir-containing regimens. We aimed to elucidate mechanisms of treatment failure due to NS3-Q80K. We included a Q80R mutation in our study and generated a series of Huh-7.5 cell lines, each of which harbored either wild-type GT 1a strain H77S.3 or the Q80K or Q80R variant. The cells were cultured with increasing concentrations of simeprevir, and NS3 domain sequences were determined. The mutations identified by sequence analyses were subsequently introduced into H77S.3. The sensitivity of each mutant to the NS3/4A PIs simeprevir, asunaprevir, grazoprevir, and paritaprevir was analyzed. We introduced the mutations into GT 1b strain N.2 and compared the sensitivity to simeprevir with that of GT 1a strain H77S.3. While simeprevir treatment selected mutations at residue D168, such as D168A/V in the wild-type virus, an additional mutation at residue R155, R155K, was selected in Q80K/R variants at simeprevir concentrations of <2.5 μM. Sensitivity analyses showed that simeprevir concentrations of <1 μM significantly boosted the replication of Q80K/R R155K variants. Interestingly, this boost was not observed with the other NS3/4A PIs or in Q80R R155Q/G/T/W variants or GT 1b isolates. The boosted replication of the Q80K+R155K variant by simeprevir could be related to treatment failure in simeprevir-containing antiviral treatments in GT 1a HCV-infected patients with the NS3-Q80K polymorphism. This result provides new insight into how resistance-associated variants can cause treatment failure.
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Bandi S, Gupta S, Tchaikovskaya T, Gupta S. Differentiation in stem/progenitor cells along fetal or adult hepatic stages requires transcriptional regulators independently of oscillations in microRNA expression. Exp Cell Res 2018; 370:1-12. [PMID: 29883712 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2018.06.004] [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: 03/19/2018] [Revised: 06/03/2018] [Accepted: 06/04/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Understanding mechanisms in lineage differentiation is critical for organ development, pathophysiology and oncogenesis. To determine whether microRNAs (miRNA) may serve as drivers or adjuncts in hepatic differentiation, we studied human embryonic stem cell-derived hepatocytes and primary hepatocytes representing fetal or adult stages. Model systems were used for hepatic lineage advancement or regression under culture conditions with molecular assays. Profiles of miRNA in primary fetal and adult hepatocytes shared similarities and distinctions from pluripotent stem cells or stem cell-derived early fetal-like hepatocytes. During phenotypic regression in fetal or adult hepatocytes, miRNA profiles oscillated to regain stemness-associated features that had not been extinguished in stem cell-derived fetal-like hepatocytes. These oscillations in stemness-associated features were not altered in fetal-like hepatocytes by inhibitory mimics for dominantly-expressed miRNA, such as hsa-miR-99b, -100, -214 and -221/222. The stem cell-derived fetal-like hepatocytes were permissive for miRNA characterizing mature hepatocytes, including mimics for hsa-miR-122, -126, -192, -194 and -26b, although transfections of the latter did not advance hepatic differentiation. Examination of genome-wide mRNA expression profiles in stem cell-derived or primary fetal hepatocytes indicated targets of highly abundant miRNA regulated general processes, e.g., cell survival, growth and proliferation, functional maintenance, etc., without directing cell differentiation. Among upstream regulators of gene networks in stem cell-derived hepatocytes included HNF4A, SNAI1, and others, which affect transcriptional circuits directing lineage development or maintenance. Therefore, miRNA expression oscillated in response to microenvironmental conditions, whereas lineage-specific transcriptional regulators, such as HNF4A, were necessary for directing hepatic differentiation. This knowledge will be helpful for understanding the contribution of stem cells in pathophysiological states and oncogenesis, as well as for applications of stem cell-derived hepatocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sriram Bandi
- Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States; Marion Bessin Liver Research Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States.
| | - Sanchit Gupta
- Marion Bessin Liver Research Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States.
| | - Tatyana Tchaikovskaya
- Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States; Marion Bessin Liver Research Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States.
| | - Sanjeev Gupta
- Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States; Marion Bessin Liver Research Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States; Diabetes Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States; The Irwin S. and Sylvia Chanin Institute for Cancer Research, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States; The Ruth L. and David S. Gottesman Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Research, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States.
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Crouchet E, Wrensch F, Schuster C, Zeisel MB, Baumert TF. Host-targeting therapies for hepatitis C virus infection: current developments and future applications. Therap Adv Gastroenterol 2018; 11:1756284818759483. [PMID: 29619090 PMCID: PMC5871046 DOI: 10.1177/1756284818759483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2017] [Accepted: 01/15/2018] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a leading cause of chronic liver diseases and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) worldwide. In the past few years, anti-HCV therapies have undergone a revolution with the approval of multiple direct-acting antivirals (DAAs), which enable interferon-free treatments with considerable improvement of sustained virologic response in patients. Today, DAAs have become the standard of care for HCV therapy. However, several limitations remain, which include access to therapy, treatment failure in a subset of patients and persistent risk of HCC development following cure in patients with advanced fibrosis. By targeting conserved host proteins involved in the HCV life cycle, host-targeting agents (HTAs) offer opportunities for pan-genotypic antiviral approaches with a high barrier to drug resistance. Moreover, when applied in combination with DAAs, HTAs could improve the management of difficult-to-treat patients by acting through a complementary mechanism of action. In this review, we summarize the different HTAs evaluated in preclinical and clinical development and discuss their potential role for anti-HCV therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilie Crouchet
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (Inserm), U1110, Institut de Recherche sur les Maladies Virales et Hépatiques, Strasbourg, France Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Florian Wrensch
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (Inserm), U1110, Institut de Recherche sur les Maladies Virales et Hépatiques, Strasbourg, France Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Catherine Schuster
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (Inserm), U1110, Institut de Recherche sur les Maladies Virales et Hépatiques, Strasbourg, France Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Mirjam B. Zeisel
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (Inserm), U1110, Institut de Recherche sur les Maladies Virales et Hépatiques, Strasbourg, France Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France Inserm U1052, CNRS UMR 5286, Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), Université de Lyon (UCBL), Lyon, France
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van der Ree MH, de Vree JM, Stelma F, Willemse S, van der Valk M, Rietdijk S, Molenkamp R, Schinkel J, van Nuenen AC, Beuers U, Hadi S, Harbers M, van der Veer E, Liu K, Grundy J, Patick AK, Pavlicek A, Blem J, Huang M, Grint P, Neben S, Gibson NW, Kootstra NA, Reesink HW. Safety, tolerability, and antiviral effect of RG-101 in patients with chronic hepatitis C: a phase 1B, double-blind, randomised controlled trial. Lancet 2017; 389:709-717. [PMID: 28087069 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(16)31715-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 185] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2016] [Revised: 09/02/2016] [Accepted: 09/13/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND miR-122 is an important host factor for hepatitis C virus (HCV) replication. The aim of this study was to assess the safety and tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and antiviral effect of a single dose of RG-101, a hepatocyte targeted N-acetylgalactosamine conjugated oligonucleotide that antagonises miR-122, in patients with chronic HCV infection with various genotypes. METHODS In this randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicentre, phase 1B study, patients were randomly assigned to RG-101 or placebo (7:1). We enrolled men and postmenopausal or hysterectomised women (aged 18-65 years) with chronic HCV genotype 1, 3, or 4 infection diagnosed at least 24 weeks before screening who were either treatment naive to or relapsed after interferon-α based therapy. Patients with co-infection (hepatitis B virus or HIV infection), evidence of decompensated liver disease, or a history of hepatocellular carcinoma were excluded. Randomisation was done by an independent, unblinded, statistician using the SAS procedure Proc Plan. The first cohort received one subcutaneous injection of 2 mg/kg RG-101 or placebo; the second cohort received one subcutaneous injection of 4 mg/kg or placebo. Patients were followed up for 8 weeks (all patients) and up to 76 weeks (patients with no viral rebound and excluding those who were randomised to the placebo group) after randomisation. The primary objective was safety and tolerability of RG-101. This trial was registered with EudraCT, number 2013-002978-49. FINDINGS Between June 4, 2014, and Oct 27, 2014, we enrolled 32 patients with chronic HCV genotype 1 (n=16), 3 (n=10), or 4 (n=6) infections. In the first cohort, 14 patients were randomly assigned to receive 2 mg/kg RG-101 and two patients were randomly assigned to receive placebo, and in the second cohort, 14 patients were randomly assigned to receive 4 mg/kg RG-101 and two patients were randomly assigned to receive placebo. Overall, 26 of the 28 patients dosed with RG-101 reported at least one treatment-related adverse event. At week 4, the median viral load reduction from baseline was 4·42 (IQR 3·23-5·00) and 5·07 (4·19-5·35) log10 IU/mL in patients dosed with 2 mg/kg RG-101 or 4 mg/kg RG-101. Three patients had undetectable HCV RNA levels 76 weeks after a single dose of RG-101. Viral rebound at or before week 12 was associated with the appearance of resistance associated substitutions in miR-122 binding regions in the 5' UTR of the HCV genome. INTERPRETATION This study showed that one administration of 2 mg/kg or 4 mg/kg RG-101, a hepatocyte targeted N-acetylgalactosamine conjugated anti-miR-122 oligonucleotide, was well tolerated and resulted in substantial viral load reduction in all treated patients within 4 weeks, and sustained virological response in three patients for 76 weeks. FUNDING Regulus Therapeutics, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meike H van der Ree
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands; Department of Experimental Immunology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - J Marleen de Vree
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Femke Stelma
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands; Department of Experimental Immunology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Sophie Willemse
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Marc van der Valk
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands; Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Center for Infection and Immunity Amsterdam, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Svend Rietdijk
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands; Onze Lieve Vrouwe Gasthuis, Oosterpark, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Richard Molenkamp
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Clinical Virology Laboratory, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Janke Schinkel
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Clinical Virology Laboratory, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Ad C van Nuenen
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Ulrich Beuers
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Salah Hadi
- PRA Health Sciences, Zuidlaren, the Netherlands
| | | | | | - Kai Liu
- Regulus Therapeutics, San Diego, CA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Paul Grint
- Regulus Therapeutics, San Diego, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Neeltje A Kootstra
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Hendrik W Reesink
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands; Department of Experimental Immunology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
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