1
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Dhuri K, Duran T, Chaudhuri B, Slack FJ, Vikram A, Glazer PM, Bahal R. Head-to-head comparison of in vitro and in vivo efficacy of pHLIP-conjugated anti-seed gamma peptide nucleic acids. CELL REPORTS. PHYSICAL SCIENCE 2023; 4:101584. [PMID: 38144419 PMCID: PMC10745205 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrp.2023.101584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Abstract
Gamma peptide nucleic acids (γPNAs) have recently garnered attention in diverse therapeutic and diagnostic applications. Serine and diethylene-glycol-containing γPNAs have been tested for numerous RNA-targeting purposes. Here, we comprehensively evaluated the in vitro and in vivo efficacy of pH-low insertion peptide (pHLIP)-conjugated serine and diethylene-based γPNAs. pHLIP targets only the acidic tumor microenvironment and not the normal cells. We synthesized and parallelly tested pHLIP-serine γPNAs and pHLIP-diethylene glycol γPNAs that target the seed region of microRNA-155, a microRNA that is upregulated in various cancers. We performed an all-atom molecular dynamics simulation-based computational study to elucidate the interaction of pHLIP-γPNA constructs with the lipid bilayer. We also determined the biodistribution and efficacy of the pHLIP constructs in the U2932-derived xenograft model. Overall, we established that the pHLIP-serine γPNAs show superior results in vivo compared with the pHLIP-diethylene glycol-based γPNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karishma Dhuri
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
| | - Tibo Duran
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
| | - Bodhisattwa Chaudhuri
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
- Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
| | - Frank J. Slack
- HMS Initiative for RNA Medicine, Department of Pathology, BIDMC Cancer Center, Harvard Medical School, 330 Brookline Avenue, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Ajit Vikram
- Department of Internal Medicine, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Peter M. Glazer
- Department of Therapeutic Radiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Raman Bahal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
- Lead contact
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2
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Ranjbar S, Zhong XB, Manautou J, Lu X. A holistic analysis of the intrinsic and delivery-mediated toxicity of siRNA therapeutics. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2023; 201:115052. [PMID: 37567502 PMCID: PMC10543595 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2023.115052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2023] [Revised: 07/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023]
Abstract
Small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) are among the most promising therapeutic platforms in many life-threatening diseases. Owing to the significant advances in siRNA design, many challenges in the stability, specificity and delivery of siRNA have been addressed. However, safety concerns and dose-limiting toxicities still stand among the reasons for the failure of clinical trials of potent siRNA therapies, calling for a need of more comprehensive understanding of their potential mechanisms of toxicity. This review delves into the intrinsic and delivery related toxicity mechanisms of siRNA drugs and takes a holistic look at the safety failure of the clinical trials to identify the underlying causes of toxicity. In the end, the current challenges, and potential solutions for the safety assessment and high throughput screening of investigational siRNA and delivery systems as well as considerations for design strategies of safer siRNA therapeutics are outlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheyda Ranjbar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Connecticut, 69 North Eagleville Road, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
| | - Xiao-Bo Zhong
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Connecticut, 69 North Eagleville Road, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
| | - José Manautou
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Connecticut, 69 North Eagleville Road, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
| | - Xiuling Lu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Connecticut, 69 North Eagleville Road, Storrs, CT 06269, USA.
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3
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Goyenvalle A, Jimenez-Mallebrera C, van Roon W, Sewing S, Krieg AM, Arechavala-Gomeza V, Andersson P. Considerations in the Preclinical Assessment of the Safety of Antisense Oligonucleotides. Nucleic Acid Ther 2023; 33:1-16. [PMID: 36579950 PMCID: PMC9940817 DOI: 10.1089/nat.2022.0061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The nucleic acid therapeutics field has made tremendous progress in the past decades. Continuous advances in chemistry and design have led to many successful clinical applications, eliciting even more interest from researchers including both academic groups and drug development companies. Many preclinical studies in the field focus on improving the delivery of antisense oligonucleotide drugs (ONDs) and/or assessing their efficacy in target tissues, often neglecting the evaluation of toxicity, at least in early phases of development. A series of consensus recommendations regarding regulatory considerations and expectations have been generated by the Oligonucleotide Safety Working Group and the Japanese Research Working Group for the International Council for Harmonisation of Technical Requirements for Pharmaceuticals for Human Use S6 and Related Issues (WGS6) in several white papers. However, safety aspects should also be kept in sight in earlier phases while screening and designing OND to avoid subsequent failure in the development phase. Experts and members of the network "DARTER," a COST Action funded by the Cooperation in Science and Technology of the EU, have utilized their collective experience working with OND, as well as their insights into OND-mediated toxicities, to generate a series of consensus recommendations to assess OND toxicity in early stages of preclinical research. In the past few years, several publications have described predictive assays, which can be used to assess OND-mediated toxicity in vitro or ex vivo to filter out potential toxic candidates before moving to in vivo phases of preclinical development, that is, animal toxicity studies. These assays also have the potential to provide translational insight since they allow a safety evaluation in human in vitro systems. Yet, small preliminary in vivo studies should also be considered to complement this early assessment. In this study, we summarize the state of the art and provide guidelines and recommendations on the different tests available for these early stage preclinical assessments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurélie Goyenvalle
- Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, Inserm, END-ICAP, Versailles, France.,Address correspondence to: Aurélie Goyenvalle, PhD, Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, Inserm, END-ICAP, Versailles 78000, France
| | - Cecilia Jimenez-Mallebrera
- Laboratorio de Investigación Aplicada en Enfermedades Neuromusculares, Unidad de Patología Neuromuscular, Servicio de Neuropediatría, Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Llobregat, Spain.,Centro de Investigaciones Biomédicas en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Madrid, Spain.,Departamento de Genética, Microbiología y Estadística, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Willeke van Roon
- Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Sabine Sewing
- Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Arthur M. Krieg
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Virginia Arechavala-Gomeza
- Neuromuscular Disorders, Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Spain.,Ikerbasque, Basque Foundation for Science, Bilbao, Spain
| | - Patrik Andersson
- Safety Innovation, Safety Sciences, Clinical Pharmacology and Safety Sciences, R&D, AstraZeneca, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Address correspondence to: Patrik Andersson, PhD, Safety Innovation, Safety Sciences, Clinical Pharmacology and Safety Sciences, R&D, AstraZeneca, Pepparedsleden 1, Mölndal, Gothenburg 431 83, Sweden
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4
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Henry SP, Arfvidsson C, Arrington J, Canadi J, Crowe D, Gupta S, Lohmann S, Massonnet B, Mytych D, Rogers T, Rogers H, Stebbins C, Stovold C, Verthelyi D, Vigil A, Xuan C, Xu Y, Yu R, Klem T. Assessment of the Immunogenicity Potential for Oligonucleotide-Based Drugs. Nucleic Acid Ther 2022; 32:369-377. [PMID: 36178478 DOI: 10.1089/nat.2021.0112] [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: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Therapeutic oligonucleotides (ONs) have characteristics of both small molecules and biologics. Although safety assessment of ONs largely follows guidelines established for small molecules, the unique characteristics of ONs often require incorporation of concepts from the safety assessment of biologics. The assessment of immunogenicity for ON therapeutics is one area where the approach is distinct from either established small molecule or biologic platforms. Information regarding immunogenicity of ONs is limited, but indicates that administration of ONs can result in antidrug antibody formation. In this study, we summarize the collective experience of the Oligonucleotide Safety Working Group in designing the immunogenicity assessment appropriate for this class of therapeutic, including advice on assay development, clinical monitoring, and evaluation of the impact of immunogenicity on exposure, efficacy, and safety of therapeutic ONs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott P Henry
- Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Carlsbad, California, USA
| | | | | | | | - Dave Crowe
- Disc Medicine, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Sabine Lohmann
- Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Munich, Penzberg, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Adam Vigil
- Boehringer Ingelheim International GmbH, Ingelheim am Rhein, Germany
| | - Chi Xuan
- Alnylam, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Yuanxin Xu
- Intellia Therapeutics, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Rosie Yu
- Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Carlsbad, California, USA
| | - Thomas Klem
- Homology Medicines, Bedford, Massachusetts, USA (formerly with Sarepta Therapeutics Headquarters, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA)
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5
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Humphreys SC, Davis JA, Iqbal S, Kamel A, Kulmatycki K, Lao Y, Liu X, Rodgers J, Snoeys J, Vigil A, Weng Y, Wiethoff C, Wittwer M. Considerations and recommendations for assessment of plasma protein binding and drug-drug interactions for siRNA therapeutics. Nucleic Acids Res 2022; 50:6020-6037. [PMID: 35687098 PMCID: PMC9226521 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkac456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Revised: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
At the time of writing, although siRNA therapeutics are approved for human use, no official regulatory guidance specific to this modality is available. In the absence of guidance, preclinical development for siRNA followed a hybrid of the small molecule and biologics guidance documents. However, siRNA differs significantly from small molecules and protein-based biologics in its physicochemical, absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion properties, and its mechanism of action. Consequently, certain reports typically included in filing packages for small molecule or biologics may benefit from adaption, or even omission, from an siRNA filing. In this white paper, members of the 'siRNA working group' in the IQ Consortium compile a list of reports included in approved siRNA filing packages and discuss the relevance of two in vitro reports-the plasma protein binding evaluation and the drug-drug interaction risk assessment-to support siRNA regulatory filings. Publicly available siRNA approval packages and the literature were systematically reviewed to examine the role of siRNA plasma protein binding and drug-drug interactions in understanding pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic relationships, safety and translation. The findings are summarized into two decision trees to help guide industry decide when in vitro siRNA plasma protein binding and drug-drug interaction studies are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - John A Davis
- PKS Department, Novartis, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | | | - Amin Kamel
- Global DMPK, Takeda, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | | | - Yanbin Lao
- DMPK, Pharmaceutical Candidate Optimization, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Princeton, NJ 08648, USA
| | - Xiumin Liu
- Early Development, Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - John Rodgers
- PKDM Department, Amgen Inc., South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Jan Snoeys
- DMPK Department, Janssen R&D, Beerse 2340, Belgium
| | - Adam Vigil
- DMPK, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals Inc., Ridgefield, CT 06877, USA
| | - Yan Weng
- Early Clinical Development Clinical Pharmacology Department, Pfizer, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
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6
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Rider D, Chivers S, Aretz J, Eisermann M, Löffler K, Hauptmann J, Morrison E, Campion G. Pre-clinical Toxicological Assessment of A Novel siRNA, SLN360, Targeting Elevated Lipoprotein (a) in Cardiovascular Disease. Toxicol Sci 2022; 189:237-249. [PMID: 35737426 PMCID: PMC9516055 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfac067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
SLN360 is a liver-targeted N-acetyl galactosamine (GalNAc)-conjugated small interfering RNA (siRNA) with a promising profile for addressing lipoprotein (a)-related cardiovascular risk. Here, we describe the findings from key preclinical safety studies. In vitro, SLN360 specifically reduced LPA expression in primary human hepatocytes with no relevant off-target effects. In rats, 10 mg/kg subcutaneous SLN360 was distributed specifically to the liver and kidney (peak 126 or 246 mg/g tissue at 6 h, respectively), with <1% of peak liver levels observed in all other tested organs. In vitro, no genotoxicity and no effect on human Ether-a-go-go Related Gene currents or proinflammatory cytokine production was observed, whereas in vivo, no SLN360-specific antibodies were detected in rabbit serum. In rat and nonhuman primate 29-day toxicology studies, SLN360 was well tolerated at all doses. In both species, known GalNAc-conjugated siRNA-induced microscopic changes were observed in the kidney and liver, with small increases in alanine aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase observed in the high dose rats. Findings were in line with previously described siRNA-GalNAc platform-related effects and all observations were reversible and considered nonadverse. In cynomolgus monkeys, liver LPA messenger RNA and serum lipoprotein (a) were significantly reduced at day 30 and after an 8-week recovery period. No dose-related changes in safety assessment endpoints were noted. No SLN360-induced cytokine production, complement activation, or micronucleus formation was observed in vivo. The toxicological profile of SLN360 presented here is restricted to known GalNAc siRNA effects and no other toxicity associated with SLN360 has been noted. The preclinical profile of SLN360 confirmed suitability for entry into clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Rider
- Silence Therapeutics GmbH, Robert-Rössle-Straße 10, 13125 Berlin, Germany
| | - Simon Chivers
- Integrated Biologix, Steinenvorstadt 33, Basel CH-4051Basel, Switzerland
| | - Julia Aretz
- Silence Therapeutics GmbH, Robert-Rössle-Straße 10, 13125 Berlin, Germany
| | - Mona Eisermann
- Silence Therapeutics GmbH, Robert-Rössle-Straße 10, 13125 Berlin, Germany
| | - Kathrin Löffler
- Silence Therapeutics GmbH, Robert-Rössle-Straße 10, 13125 Berlin, Germany
| | - Judith Hauptmann
- Silence Therapeutics GmbH, Robert-Rössle-Straße 10, 13125 Berlin, Germany
| | - Eliot Morrison
- Silence Therapeutics GmbH, Robert-Rössle-Straße 10, 13125 Berlin, Germany
| | - Giles Campion
- Silence Therapeutics PLC, 72 Hammersmith Road, London, W14 8THLondon, UK
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7
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Andersson P. Preclinical Safety Assessment of Therapeutic Oligonucleotides. METHODS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY (CLIFTON, N.J.) 2022; 2434:355-370. [PMID: 35213031 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2010-6_25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
During the last decade, therapeutic oligonucleotide drugs (OND) have witnessed a tremendous development in chemistry and mechanistic understanding that have translated into successful clinical applications. Depending on the specific OND mechanism, chemistry, and design, the DMPK and toxicity properties can vary significantly between different OND classes and delivery approaches, the latter including lipid formulations or conjugation approaches to enhance productive OND uptake. At the same time, with the only difference between compounds being the nucleobase sequence, ONDs with same mechanism of action, chemistry, and design show relatively consistent behavior, allowing certain extrapolations between compounds within an OND class. This chapter provides a summary of the most common toxicities, the improved mechanistic understanding and the safety assessment activities performed for therapeutic oligonucleotides during the drug discovery and development process. Several of the considerations described for therapeutic applications should also be of value for the scientists mainly using oligonucleotides as research tools to explore various biological processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrik Andersson
- Safety Innovation, Safety Sciences, Clinical Pharmacology and Safety Sciences, R&D, AstraZeneca, Gothenburg, Sweden.
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8
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Honcharenko D, Rocha CSJ, Lundin KE, Maity J, Milton S, Tedebark U, Murtola M, Honcharenko M, Slaitas A, Smith CIE, Zain R, Strömberg R. 2'- O-( N-(Aminoethyl)carbamoyl)methyl Modification Allows for Lower Phosphorothioate Content in Splice-Switching Oligonucleotides with Retained Activity. Nucleic Acid Ther 2022; 32:221-233. [PMID: 35238623 PMCID: PMC9221157 DOI: 10.1089/nat.2021.0086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
2′-O-(N-(Aminoethyl)carbamoyl)methyl (2′-O-AECM)-modified oligonucleotides (ONs) and their mixmers with 2′-O-methyl oligonucleotides (2′-OMe ONs) with phosphodiester linkers as well as with partial and full phosphorothioate (PS) inclusion were synthesized and functionally evaluated as splice-switching oligonucleotides in several different reporter cell lines originating from different tissues. This was enabled by first preparing the AECM-modified A, C, G and U, which required a different strategy for each building block. The AECM modification has previously been shown to provide high resistance to enzymatic degradation, even without PS linkages. It is therefore particularly interesting and unprecedented that the 2′-O-AECM ONs are shown to have efficient splice-switching activity even without inclusion of PS linkages and found to be as effective as 2′-OMe PS ONs. Importantly, the PS linkages can be partially included, without any significant reduction in splice-switching efficacy. This suggests that AECM modification has the potential to be used in balancing the PS content of ONs. Furthermore, conjugation of 2′-O-AECM ONs to an endosomal escape peptide significantly increased splice-switching suggesting that this effect could possibly be due to an increase in uptake of ON to the site of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dmytro Honcharenko
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Cristina S J Rocha
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Clinical Research Center, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Karin E Lundin
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Clinical Research Center, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Jyotirmoy Maity
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Stefan Milton
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Ulf Tedebark
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Merita Murtola
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
| | | | | | - C I Edvard Smith
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Clinical Research Center, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Rula Zain
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Clinical Research Center, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Huddinge, Sweden.,Department of Clinical Genetics, Center for Rare Diseases, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Roger Strömberg
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
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9
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Valenzuela A, Tardiveau C, Ayuso M, Buyssens L, Bars C, Van Ginneken C, Fant P, Leconte I, Braendli-Baiocco A, Parrott N, Schmitt G, Tessier Y, Barrow P, Van Cruchten S. Safety Testing of an Antisense Oligonucleotide Intended for Pediatric Indications in the Juvenile Göttingen Minipig, including an Evaluation of the Ontogeny of Key Nucleases. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:1442. [PMID: 34575518 PMCID: PMC8470776 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13091442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 09/06/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The adult Göttingen Minipig is an acknowledged model for safety assessment of antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) drugs developed for adult indications. To assess whether the juvenile Göttingen Minipig is also a suitable nonclinical model for pediatric safety assessment of ASOs, we performed an 8-week repeat-dose toxicity study in different age groups of minipigs ranging from 1 to 50 days of age. The animals received a weekly dose of a phosphorothioated locked-nucleic-acid-based ASO that was assessed previously for toxicity in adult minipigs. The endpoints included toxicokinetic parameters, in-life monitoring, clinical pathology, and histopathology. Additionally, the ontogeny of key nucleases involved in ASO metabolism and pharmacologic activity was investigated using quantitative polymerase chain reaction and nuclease activity assays. Similar clinical chemistry and toxicity findings were observed; however, differences in plasma and tissue exposures as well as pharmacologic activity were seen in the juvenile minipigs when compared with the adult data. The ontogeny study revealed a differential nuclease expression and activity, which could affect the metabolic pathway and pharmacologic effect of ASOs in different tissues and age groups. These data indicate that the juvenile Göttingen Minipig is a promising nonclinical model for safety assessment of ASOs intended to treat disease in the human pediatric population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allan Valenzuela
- Comparative Perinatal Development, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium; (A.V.); (M.A.); (L.B.); (C.B.); (C.V.G.)
| | - Claire Tardiveau
- Charles River Laboratories France Safety Assessment SAS, 69210 Saint-Germain-Nuelles, France; (C.T.); (P.F.); (I.L.)
| | - Miriam Ayuso
- Comparative Perinatal Development, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium; (A.V.); (M.A.); (L.B.); (C.B.); (C.V.G.)
| | - Laura Buyssens
- Comparative Perinatal Development, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium; (A.V.); (M.A.); (L.B.); (C.B.); (C.V.G.)
| | - Chloe Bars
- Comparative Perinatal Development, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium; (A.V.); (M.A.); (L.B.); (C.B.); (C.V.G.)
| | - Chris Van Ginneken
- Comparative Perinatal Development, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium; (A.V.); (M.A.); (L.B.); (C.B.); (C.V.G.)
| | - Pierluigi Fant
- Charles River Laboratories France Safety Assessment SAS, 69210 Saint-Germain-Nuelles, France; (C.T.); (P.F.); (I.L.)
| | - Isabelle Leconte
- Charles River Laboratories France Safety Assessment SAS, 69210 Saint-Germain-Nuelles, France; (C.T.); (P.F.); (I.L.)
| | - Annamaria Braendli-Baiocco
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, F. Hoffmann-La-Roche, Ltd., 4070 Basel, Switzerland; (A.B.-B.); (N.P.); (G.S.); (Y.T.); (P.B.)
| | - Neil Parrott
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, F. Hoffmann-La-Roche, Ltd., 4070 Basel, Switzerland; (A.B.-B.); (N.P.); (G.S.); (Y.T.); (P.B.)
| | - Georg Schmitt
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, F. Hoffmann-La-Roche, Ltd., 4070 Basel, Switzerland; (A.B.-B.); (N.P.); (G.S.); (Y.T.); (P.B.)
| | - Yann Tessier
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, F. Hoffmann-La-Roche, Ltd., 4070 Basel, Switzerland; (A.B.-B.); (N.P.); (G.S.); (Y.T.); (P.B.)
| | - Paul Barrow
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, F. Hoffmann-La-Roche, Ltd., 4070 Basel, Switzerland; (A.B.-B.); (N.P.); (G.S.); (Y.T.); (P.B.)
| | - Steven Van Cruchten
- Comparative Perinatal Development, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium; (A.V.); (M.A.); (L.B.); (C.B.); (C.V.G.)
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10
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Hammond SM, Aartsma‐Rus A, Alves S, Borgos SE, Buijsen RAM, Collin RWJ, Covello G, Denti MA, Desviat LR, Echevarría L, Foged C, Gaina G, Garanto A, Goyenvalle AT, Guzowska M, Holodnuka I, Jones DR, Krause S, Lehto T, Montolio M, Van Roon‐Mom W, Arechavala‐Gomeza V. Delivery of oligonucleotide-based therapeutics: challenges and opportunities. EMBO Mol Med 2021; 13:e13243. [PMID: 33821570 PMCID: PMC8033518 DOI: 10.15252/emmm.202013243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 161] [Impact Index Per Article: 53.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Revised: 11/27/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Nucleic acid-based therapeutics that regulate gene expression have been developed towards clinical use at a steady pace for several decades, but in recent years the field has been accelerating. To date, there are 11 marketed products based on antisense oligonucleotides, aptamers and small interfering RNAs, and many others are in the pipeline for both academia and industry. A major technology trigger for this development has been progress in oligonucleotide chemistry to improve the drug properties and reduce cost of goods, but the main hurdle for the application to a wider range of disorders is delivery to target tissues. The adoption of delivery technologies, such as conjugates or nanoparticles, has been a game changer for many therapeutic indications, but many others are still awaiting their eureka moment. Here, we cover the variety of methods developed to deliver nucleic acid-based therapeutics across biological barriers and the model systems used to test them. We discuss important safety considerations and regulatory requirements for synthetic oligonucleotide chemistries and the hurdles for translating laboratory breakthroughs to the clinic. Recent advances in the delivery of nucleic acid-based therapeutics and in the development of model systems, as well as safety considerations and regulatory requirements for synthetic oligonucleotide chemistries are discussed in this review on oligonucleotide-based therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sandra Alves
- Department of Human Genetics, Research and Development UnitNational Health Institute Doutor Ricardo JorgePortoPortugal
| | - Sven E Borgos
- Department of Biotechnology and NanomedicineSINTEF ASTrondheimNorway
| | - Ronald A M Buijsen
- Department of Human GeneticsLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
| | - Rob W J Collin
- Department of Human Genetics and Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and BehaviourRadboud University Medical CenterNijmegenThe Netherlands
| | - Giuseppina Covello
- Department of BiologyUniversity of PadovaPadovaItaly
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology ‐ CIBIOUniversity of TrentoTrentoItaly
| | - Michela A Denti
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology ‐ CIBIOUniversity of TrentoTrentoItaly
| | - Lourdes R Desviat
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa UAM‐CSICCIBERER, IdiPazUniversidad Autónoma de MadridMadridSpain
| | | | - Camilla Foged
- Department of PharmacyFaculty of Health and Medical SciencesUniversity of CopenhagenCopenhagen ØDenmark
| | - Gisela Gaina
- Victor Babes National Institute of PathologyBucharestRomania
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyUniversity of BucharestBucharestRomania
| | - Alejandro Garanto
- Department of Human Genetics and Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and BehaviourRadboud University Medical CenterNijmegenThe Netherlands
- Department of PediatricsRadboud University Medical CenterNijmegenThe Netherlands
| | | | - Magdalena Guzowska
- Department of Physiological SciencesFaculty of Veterinary MedicineWarsaw University of Life Sciences – SGGWWarsawPoland
| | - Irina Holodnuka
- Institute of Microbiology and VirologyRiga Stradins UniversityRigaLatvia
| | | | - Sabine Krause
- Department of NeurologyFriedrich‐Baur‐InstituteLudwig‐Maximilians‐University of MunichMunichGermany
| | - Taavi Lehto
- Institute of TechnologyUniversity of TartuTartuEstonia
- Division of Biomolecular and Cellular MedicineDepartment of Laboratory MedicineKarolinska InstitutetHuddingeSweden
| | - Marisol Montolio
- Duchenne Parent Project EspañaMadridSpain
- Department of Cell Biology, Fisiology and ImmunologyFaculty of BiologyUniversity of BarcelonaBarcelonaSpain
| | - Willeke Van Roon‐Mom
- Department of Human GeneticsLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
| | - Virginia Arechavala‐Gomeza
- Neuromuscular Disorders GroupBiocruces Bizkaia Health Research InstituteBarakaldoSpain
- Ikerbasque, Basque Foundation for ScienceBilbaoSpain
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11
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Hirabayashi Y, Maki K, Kinoshita K, Nakazawa T, Obika S, Naota M, Watanabe K, Suzuki M, Arato T, Fujisaka A, Fueki O, Ito K, Onodera H. Considerations of the Japanese Research Working Group for the ICH S6 & Related Issues Regarding Nonclinical Safety Assessments of Oligonucleotide Therapeutics: Comparison with Those of Biopharmaceuticals. Nucleic Acid Ther 2021; 31:114-125. [PMID: 33470890 PMCID: PMC7997717 DOI: 10.1089/nat.2020.0879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
This white paper summarizes the current consensus of the Japanese Research Working Group for the ICH S6 & Related Issues (WGS6) on strategies for the nonclinical safety assessment of oligonucleotide-based therapeutics (ONTs), specifically focused on the similarities and differences to biotechnology-derived pharmaceuticals (biopharmaceuticals). ONTs, like biopharmaceuticals, have high species and target specificities. However, ONTs have characteristic off-target effects that clearly differ from those of biopharmaceuticals. The product characteristics of ONTs necessitate specific considerations when planning nonclinical studies. Some ONTs have been approved for human use and many are currently undergoing nonclinical and/or clinical development. However, as ONTs are a rapidly evolving class of drugs, there is still much to learn to achieve optimal strategies for the development of ONTs. There are no formal specific guidelines, so safety assessments of ONTs are principally conducted by referring to published white papers and conventional guidelines for biopharmaceuticals and new chemical entities, and each ONT is assessed on a case-by-case basis. The WGS6 expects that this report will be useful in considering nonclinical safety assessments and developing appropriate guidelines specific for ONTs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kazushige Maki
- Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA), Chiyoda-ku, Japan
| | - Kiyoshi Kinoshita
- The Japan Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association (JPMA), Chuo-ku, Japan
| | | | - Satoshi Obika
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Suita, Japan
| | - Misaki Naota
- Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA), Chiyoda-ku, Japan
| | - Kazuto Watanabe
- The Japan Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association (JPMA), Chuo-ku, Japan
| | - Mutsumi Suzuki
- The Japan Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association (JPMA), Chuo-ku, Japan
| | - Teruyo Arato
- Clinical Research and Medical Innovation Center, Hokkaido University Hospital, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Aki Fujisaka
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Suita, Japan
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Osaka Ohtani University, Tondabayashi, Japan
| | - Osamu Fueki
- Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA), Chiyoda-ku, Japan
| | - Kosuke Ito
- Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA), Chiyoda-ku, Japan
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12
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Capaldi D, Akhtar N, Atherton T, Benstead D, Charaf A, De Vijlder T, Heatherington C, Hoernschemeyer J, Jiang H, Rieder U, Ring F, Peter R, Stolee JA, Wechselberger R. Strategies for Identity Testing of Therapeutic Oligonucleotide Drug Substances and Drug Products. Nucleic Acid Ther 2020; 30:249-264. [PMID: 32857010 DOI: 10.1089/nat.2020.0878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
A risk-based approach for routine identity testing of therapeutic oligonucleotide drug substances and drug products is described. Risk analysis of solid-phase oligonucleotide synthesis indicates that intact mass measurement is a powerful technique for confirming synthesis of the intended oligonucleotide. Further risk assessment suggests that the addition of a second, sequence-sensitive identity test, which relies on a comparison of some property of the sample to a reference standard of proven identity, results in a sufficient test of identity for most oligonucleotide drug substances and products. Alternative strategies for drug product identity testing are presented. The analysis creates a common way to communicate risk and should result in a harmonized approach to identity testing that avoids the unnecessary analytical burden associated with routine de novo sequencing, without compromising quality or patient safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Capaldi
- Development Chemistry, Ionis Pharmaceuticals Inc., Carlsbad, California, USA
| | - Nadim Akhtar
- New Modalities and Parenteral Development and Pharmaceutical Technology & Development, Operations, AstraZeneca, Macclesfield, United Kingdom
| | - Tom Atherton
- Structure and Function Characterization, CMC Analytical, GlaxoSmithKline, Stevenage, United Kingdom
| | - David Benstead
- Chemical Development, Pharmaceutical Technology & Development, Operations, AstraZeneca, Macclesfield, United Kingdom
| | - Ayman Charaf
- Research and Development Tides, Pharmaceutical Development Platform, Sanofi-Aventis GmbH, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Thomas De Vijlder
- Analytical Development, Small Molecule Development, Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson and Johnson, Beerse, Belgium
| | - Carl Heatherington
- Drug Substance and Product Analysis UK, CMC Analytical, GlaxoSmithKline, Stevenage, United Kingdom
| | | | - Hong Jiang
- Analytical Development, Biogen, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ulrike Rieder
- Technical Research and Development, Global Drug Development, Novartis Pharma, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Francis Ring
- Development Chemistry, Ionis Pharmaceuticals Inc., Carlsbad, California, USA
| | - Robert Peter
- Analytical Research and Development, Synthetic Molecules Technical Development, F. Hoffmann-La Roche, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Rainer Wechselberger
- Analytical Development, Small Molecule Development, Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson and Johnson, Beerse, Belgium
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13
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Lundin KE, Gissberg O, Smith CIE, Zain R. Chemical Development of Therapeutic Oligonucleotides. Methods Mol Biol 2020; 2036:3-16. [PMID: 31410788 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-9670-4_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The development of several different chemical modifications of nucleic acids, with improved base-pairing affinity and specificity as well as increased resistance against nucleases, has been described. These new chemistries have allowed the synthesis of different types of therapeutic oligonucleotides. Here we discuss selected chemistries used in antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) applications (e.g., small interfering RNA (siRNA), RNase H activation, translational block, splice-switching, and also as aptamers). Recently approved oligonucleotide-based drugs are also presented briefly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karin E Lundin
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Center for Advanced Therapies, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Olof Gissberg
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Center for Advanced Therapies, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - C I Edvard Smith
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Center for Advanced Therapies, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Rula Zain
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Center for Advanced Therapies, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Clinical Genetics, Center for Rare Diseases, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
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14
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Aupy P, Echevarría L, Relizani K, Zarrouki F, Haeberli A, Komisarski M, Tensorer T, Jouvion G, Svinartchouk F, Garcia L, Goyenvalle A. Identifying and Avoiding tcDNA-ASO Sequence-Specific Toxicity for the Development of DMD Exon 51 Skipping Therapy. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2019; 19:371-383. [PMID: 31881528 PMCID: PMC7063478 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2019.11.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2019] [Revised: 11/21/2019] [Accepted: 11/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Tricyclo-DNA (tcDNA) antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) hold promise for therapeutic splice-switching applications and the treatment of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) in particular. We have previously reported the therapeutic potential of tcDNA-ASO in mouse models of DMD, highlighting their unique pharmaceutical properties and unprecedented uptake in many tissues after systemic delivery, including the heart and central nervous system. Following these encouraging results, we developed phosphorothioate (PS)-modified tcDNA-ASOs targeting the human dystrophin exon 51 (H51). Preliminary evaluation of H51 PS-tcDNA in mice resulted in unexpected acute toxicity following intravenous administration of the selected candidate. In vivo and in vitro assays revealed complement activation, prolonged coagulation times, and platelet activation, correlating with the observed toxicity. In this study, we identify a novel PS-tcDNA sequence-specific toxicity induced by the formation of homodimer-like structures and investigate the therapeutic potential of a detoxified PS-tcDNA targeting exon 51. Modification of the H51-PS-tcDNA sequence, while maintaining target specificity through wobble pairing, abolished the observed toxicity by preventing homodimer formation. The resulting detoxified wobble-tcDNA candidate did not affect coagulation or complement pathways any longer nor activated platelets in vitro and was well tolerated in vivo in mice, confirming the possibility to detoxify specific tcDNA-ASO candidates successfully.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philippine Aupy
- Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, Inserm, END-ICAP, 78000 Versailles, France
| | - Lucía Echevarría
- Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, Inserm, END-ICAP, 78000 Versailles, France; SQY Therapeutics, 78180 Montigny le Bretonneux, France
| | - Karima Relizani
- Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, Inserm, END-ICAP, 78000 Versailles, France; SQY Therapeutics, 78180 Montigny le Bretonneux, France
| | - Faouzi Zarrouki
- Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, Inserm, END-ICAP, 78000 Versailles, France
| | | | | | | | - Grégory Jouvion
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Pathophysiology of Pediatric Genetic Diseases, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital Armand-Trousseau, UF Génétique Moléculaire, 75012 Paris, France; Institut Pasteur, Experimental Neuropathology Unit, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Fedor Svinartchouk
- Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, Inserm, END-ICAP, 78000 Versailles, France; SQY Therapeutics, 78180 Montigny le Bretonneux, France
| | - Luis Garcia
- Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, Inserm, END-ICAP, 78000 Versailles, France; LIA BAHN, Centre Scientifique de Monaco, 98000 Monaco
| | - Aurélie Goyenvalle
- Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, Inserm, END-ICAP, 78000 Versailles, France; LIA BAHN, Centre Scientifique de Monaco, 98000 Monaco.
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15
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Abstract
Nucleotide repeat disorders encompass more than 30 diseases, most of which show dominant inheritance, such as Huntington's disease, spinocerebellar ataxias, and myotonic dystrophies. Yet others, including Friedreich's ataxia, are recessively inherited. A common feature is the presence of a DNA tandem repeat in the disease-associated gene and the propensity of the repeats to expand in germ and in somatic cells, with ensuing neurological and frequently also neuromuscular defects. Repeat expansion is the most frequent event in these diseases; however, sequence contractions, deletions, and mutations have also been reported. Nucleotide repeat sequences are predisposed to adopt non-B-DNA conformations, such as hairpins, cruciform, and intramolecular triple-helix structures (triplexes), also known as H-DNA. For gain-of-function disorders, oligonucleotides can be used to target either transcripts or duplex DNA and in diseases with recessive inheritance oligonucleotides may be used to alter repressive DNA or RNA conformations. Most current treatment strategies are aimed at altering transcript levels, but therapies directed against DNA are also emerging, and novel strategies targeting DNA, instead of RNA, are described. Different mechanisms using modified oligonucleotides are discussed along with the structural aspects of repeat sequences, which can influence binding modes and efficiencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rula Zain
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Centre for Advanced Therapies, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, SE-141 86, Stockholm, Sweden.
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Centre for Rare Diseases, Karolinska University Hospital, SE-171 76, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - C I Edvard Smith
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Centre for Advanced Therapies, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, SE-141 86, Stockholm, Sweden
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16
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Abstract
Oligonucleotides (ONs) can interfere with biomolecules representing the entire extended central dogma. Antisense gapmer, steric block, splice-switching ONs, and short interfering RNA drugs have been successfully developed. Moreover, antagomirs (antimicroRNAs), microRNA mimics, aptamers, DNA decoys, DNAzymes, synthetic guide strands for CRISPR/Cas, and innate immunity-stimulating ONs are all in clinical trials. DNA-targeting, triplex-forming ONs and strand-invading ONs have made their mark on drug development research, but not yet as medicines. Both design and synthetic nucleic acid chemistry are crucial for achieving biologically active ONs. The dominating modifications are phosphorothioate linkages, base methylation, and numerous 2'-substitutions in the furanose ring, such as 2'-fluoro, O-methyl, or methoxyethyl. Locked nucleic acid and constrained ethyl, a related variant, are bridged forms where the 2'-oxygen connects to the 4'-carbon in the sugar. Phosphorodiamidate morpholino oligomers, carrying a modified heterocyclic backbone ring, have also been commercialized. Delivery remains a major obstacle, but systemic administration and intrathecal infusion are used for treatment of the liver and brain, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- C I Edvard Smith
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Clinical Research Center, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, SE-141 86 Stockholm, Sweden; .,Stellenbosch Institute for Advanced Study, Wallenberg Research Centre, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch 7600, South Africa
| | - Rula Zain
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Clinical Research Center, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, SE-141 86 Stockholm, Sweden; .,Department of Clinical Genetics, Centre for Rare Diseases, Karolinska University Hospital, SE-171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
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17
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Wurster CD, Ludolph AC. Antisense oligonucleotides in neurological disorders. Ther Adv Neurol Disord 2018; 11:1756286418776932. [PMID: 29854003 PMCID: PMC5971383 DOI: 10.1177/1756286418776932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2017] [Accepted: 04/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The introduction of genetics revolutionized the field of neurodegenerative and neuromuscular diseases and has provided considerable insight into the underlying pathomechanisms. Nevertheless, effective treatment options have been limited. This changed recently when antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) could be translated from in vitro and experimental animal studies into clinical practice. In 2016, two ASOs were approved by the United States US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and demonstrated remarkable efficacy in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) and spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). ASOs are synthetic single-stranded strings of nucleic acids. They selectively bind to specific premessenger ribonucleic acid (pre-mRNA)/mRNA sequences and alter protein synthesis by several mechanisms of action. Thus, apart from gene replacement, ASOs may therefore provide the most direct therapeutic strategy for influencing gene expression. In this review, we shall discuss basic mechanisms of ASO action, the role of chemical modifications needed to improve the pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic properties of ASOs, and we shall then focus on several ASOs developed for the treatment of neurodegenerative and neuromuscular disorders, including SMA, DMD, myotonic dystrophies, Huntington's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia D. Wurster
- Department of Neurology, University of Ulm, Oberer Eselsberg 45, Ulm, 89081, Germany
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18
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Braendli-Baiocco A, Festag M, Dumong Erichsen K, Persson R, Mihatsch MJ, Fisker N, Funk J, Mohr S, Constien R, Ploix C, Brady K, Berrera M, Altmann B, Lenz B, Albassam M, Schmitt G, Weiser T, Schuler F, Singer T, Tessier Y. From the Cover: The Minipig is a Suitable Non-Rodent Model in the Safety Assessment of Single Stranded Oligonucleotides. Toxicol Sci 2018; 157:112-128. [PMID: 28123102 PMCID: PMC5414856 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfx025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-human primates (NHPs) are currently considered to be the non-rodent species of choice for the preclinical safety assessment of single-stranded oligonucleotide (SSO) drugs. We evaluated minipigs as a potential alternative to NHPs to test the safety of this class of compounds. Four different phosphorothioated locked nucleic acid-based SSOs (3 antisense and 1 anti-miR), all with known safety profiles, were administered to minipigs using similar study designs and read-outs as in earlier NHP studies with the same compounds. The studies included toxicokinetic investigations, in-life monitoring, clinical and anatomic pathology. In the minipig, we demonstrated target engagement by the SSOs where relevant, and a similar toxicokinetic behavior in plasma, kidney, and liver when compared with NHPs. Clinical tolerability was similar between minipig and NHPs. For the first time, we showed similar and dose-dependent effects on the coagulation and complement cascade after intravenous dosing similar to those observed in NHPs. Similar to NHPs, morphological changes were seen in proximal tubular epithelial cells of the kidney, Kupffer cells, hepatocytes, and lymph nodes. Minipigs appeared more sensitive to the high-dose kidney toxicity of most of the selected SSOs than NHPs. No new target organ or off-target toxicities were identified in the minipig. The minipig did not predict the clinical features of human injection site reactions better than the NHPs, but histopathological similarities were observed between minipigs and NHPs. We conclude that there is no impediment, as default, to the use of minipigs as the non-rodent species in SSO candidate non-clinical safety packages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annamaria Braendli-Baiocco
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Matthias Festag
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Kamille Dumong Erichsen
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation Center Copenhagen, Hørsholm, Denmark
| | - Robert Persson
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation Center Copenhagen, Hørsholm, Denmark
| | | | - Niels Fisker
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation Center Copenhagen, Hørsholm, Denmark
| | - Juergen Funk
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Susanne Mohr
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Rainer Constien
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, Bioanalytical Research and Development, Roche Innovation Center Munich, Roche Diagnostics GmbH, Penzberg, Germany
| | - Corinne Ploix
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Kevin Brady
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Marco Berrera
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Bernd Altmann
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Barbara Lenz
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Mudher Albassam
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation Center New York, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, New York, NY, USA
| | - Georg Schmitt
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Weiser
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Franz Schuler
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Singer
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Yann Tessier
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation Center Copenhagen, Hørsholm, Denmark
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19
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Capaldi D, Teasdale A, Henry S, Akhtar N, den Besten C, Gao-Sheridan S, Kretschmer M, Sharpe N, Andrews B, Burm B, Foy J. Impurities in Oligonucleotide Drug Substances and Drug Products. Nucleic Acid Ther 2017; 27:309-322. [PMID: 29125795 DOI: 10.1089/nat.2017.0691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
This white paper, which is the 10th in a series intended to address issues associated with the development of therapeutic oligonucleotides, examines the subject of product-related impurities. The authors consider chemistry and safety aspects and advance arguments in favor of platform approaches to impurity identification and qualification. Reporting, identification, and qualification thresholds suitable for product-related impurities of therapeutic oligonucleotides are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Andy Teasdale
- 2 AstraZeneca UK Ltd. , Macclesfield, United Kingdom
| | - Scott Henry
- 1 Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Inc. , Carlsbad, California
| | - Nadim Akhtar
- 2 AstraZeneca UK Ltd. , Macclesfield, United Kingdom
| | | | | | | | - Neal Sharpe
- 5 Anavex Life Sciences Corp. , New York, New York
| | - Ben Andrews
- 6 GlaxoSmithKline , Stevenage, United Kingdom
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20
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Sewing S, Roth AB, Winter M, Dieckmann A, Bertinetti-Lapatki C, Tessier Y, McGinnis C, Huber S, Koller E, Ploix C, Reed JC, Singer T, Rothfuss A. Assessing single-stranded oligonucleotide drug-induced effects in vitro reveals key risk factors for thrombocytopenia. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0187574. [PMID: 29107969 PMCID: PMC5673186 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0187574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2017] [Accepted: 10/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Single-stranded oligonucleotides (ON) comprise a promising therapeutic platform that enables selective modulation of currently undruggable targets. The development of novel ON drug candidates has demonstrated excellent efficacy, but in certain cases also some safety liabilities were reported. Among them are events of thrombocytopenia, which have recently been evident in late stage trials with ON drugs. The underlying mechanisms are poorly understood and the risk for ON candidates causing such events cannot be sufficiently assessed pre-clinically. We investigated potential thrombocytopenia risk factors of ONs and implemented a set of in vitro assays to assess these risks. Our findings support previous observations that phosphorothioate (PS)-ONs can bind to platelet proteins such as platelet collagen receptor glycoprotein VI (GPVI) and activate human platelets in vitro to various extents. We also show that these PS-ONs can bind to platelet factor 4 (PF4). Binding to platelet proteins and subsequent activation correlates with ON length and connected to this, the number of PS in the backbone of the molecule. Moreover, we demonstrate that locked nucleic acid (LNA) ribosyl modifications in the wings of the PS-ONs strongly suppress binding to GPVI and PF4, paralleled by markedly reduced platelet activation. In addition, we provide evidence that PS-ONs do not directly affect hematopoietic cell differentiation in culture but at higher concentrations show a pro-inflammatory potential, which might contribute to platelet activation. Overall, our data confirm that certain molecular attributes of ONs are associated with a higher risk for thrombocytopenia. We propose that applying the in vitro assays discussed here during the lead optimization phase may aid in deprioritizing ONs with a potential to induce thrombocytopenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabine Sewing
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- * E-mail:
| | - Adrian B. Roth
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Michael Winter
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Andreas Dieckmann
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Yann Tessier
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Copenhagen A/S, Hørsholm, Denmark
| | - Claudia McGinnis
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Sylwia Huber
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Erich Koller
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Corinne Ploix
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - John C. Reed
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Singer
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Andreas Rothfuss
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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21
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Mustonen EK, Palomäki T, Pasanen M. Oligonucleotide-based pharmaceuticals: Non-clinical and clinical safety signals and non-clinical testing strategies. Regul Toxicol Pharmacol 2017; 90:328-341. [PMID: 28966105 DOI: 10.1016/j.yrtph.2017.09.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2017] [Revised: 09/25/2017] [Accepted: 09/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Antisense oligonucleotides, short interfering RNAs (siRNAs) and aptamers are oligonucleotide-based pharmaceuticals with a promising role in targeted therapies. Currently, five oligonucleotide-based pharmaceuticals have achieved marketing authorization in Europe or USA and many more are undergoing clinical testing. However, several safety concerns have been raised in non-clinical and clinical studies. Oligonucleotides share properties with both chemical and biological pharmaceuticals and therefore they pose challenges also from the regulatory point of view. We have analyzed the safety data of oligonucleotides and evaluated the applicability of current non-clinical toxicological guidelines for assessing the safety of oligonucleotide-based pharmaceuticals. Oligonucleotide-based pharmaceuticals display a similar toxicological profile, exerting adverse effects on liver and kidney, evoking hematological alterations, as well as causing immunostimulation and prolonging the coagulation time. It is possible to extrapolate some of these effects from non-clinical studies to humans. However, evaluation strategies for genotoxicity testing of "non-natural" oligonucleotides should be revised. Additionally, the selective use of surrogates and prediction of clinical endpoints for non-clinically observed immunostimulation is complicated by its multiple potential manifestations, demanding improvements in the testing strategies. Utilizing more relevant and mechanistic-based approaches and taking better account of species differences, could possibly improve the prediction of relevant immunological/proinflammatory effects in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enni-Kaisa Mustonen
- University of Eastern Finland, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Pharmacy, P.O. Box 1627, 70211 Kuopio, Finland
| | | | - Markku Pasanen
- University of Eastern Finland, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Pharmacy, P.O. Box 1627, 70211 Kuopio, Finland.
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22
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Marlowe JL, Akopian V, Karmali P, Kornbrust D, Lockridge J, Semple S. Recommendations of the Oligonucleotide Safety Working Group's Formulated Oligonucleotide Subcommittee for the Safety Assessment of Formulated Oligonucleotide-Based Therapeutics. Nucleic Acid Ther 2017; 27:183-196. [PMID: 28609186 DOI: 10.1089/nat.2017.0671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of lipid formulations has greatly improved the ability to effectively deliver oligonucleotides and has been instrumental in the rapid expansion of therapeutic development programs using oligonucleotide drugs. However, the development of such complex multicomponent therapeutics requires the implementation of unique, scientifically sound approaches to the nonclinical development of these drugs, based upon a hybrid of knowledge and experiences drawn from small molecule, protein, and oligonucleotide therapeutic drug development. The relative paucity of directly applicable regulatory guidance documents for oligonucleotide therapeutics in general has resulted in the generation of multiple white papers from oligonucleotide drug development experts and members of the Oligonucleotide Safety Working Group (OSWG). The members of the Formulated Oligonucleotide Subcommittee of the OSWG have utilized their collective experience working with a variety of formulations and their associated oligonucleotide payloads, as well as their insights into regulatory considerations and expectations, to generate a series of consensus recommendations for the pharmacokinetic characterization and nonclinical safety assessment of this unique class of therapeutics. It should be noted that the focus of Subcommittee discussions was on lipid nanoparticle and other types of particulate formulations of therapeutic oligonucleotides and not on conjugates or other types of modifications of oligonucleotide structure intended to facilitate delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L Marlowe
- 1 Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research , Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | | | | | | | | | - Sean Semple
- 6 Arbutus Biopharma Corporation , Burnaby, Canada
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23
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Oligonucleotide therapies for disorders of the nervous system. Nat Biotechnol 2017; 35:249-263. [PMID: 28244991 DOI: 10.1038/nbt.3784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2016] [Accepted: 01/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Oligonucleotide therapies are currently experiencing a resurgence driven by advances in backbone chemistry and discoveries of novel therapeutic pathways that can be uniquely and efficiently modulated by the oligonucleotide drugs. A quarter of a century has passed since oligonucleotides were first applied in living mammalian brain to modulate gene expression. Despite challenges in delivery to the brain, multiple oligonucleotide-based compounds are now being developed for treatment of human brain disorders by direct delivery inside the blood brain barrier (BBB). Notably, the first new central nervous system (CNS)-targeted oligonucleotide-based drug (nusinersen/Spinraza) was approved by US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in late 2016 and several other compounds are in advanced clinical trials. Human testing of brain-targeted oligonucleotides has highlighted unusual pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of these compounds, including complex active uptake mechanisms, low systemic exposure, extremely long half-lives, accumulation and gradual release from subcellular depots. Further work on oligonucleotide uptake, development of formulations for delivery across the BBB and relevant disease biology studies are required for further optimization of the oligonucleotide drug development process for brain applications.
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24
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Abstract
Recent studies have led to a greater appreciation of the diverse roles RNAs play in maintaining normal cellular function and how they contribute to disease pathology, broadening the number of potential therapeutic targets. Antisense oligonucleotides are the most direct means to target RNA in a selective manner and have become an established platform technology for drug discovery. There are multiple molecular mechanisms by which antisense oligonucleotides can be used to modulate RNAs in cells, including promoting the degradation of the targeted RNA or modulating RNA function without degradation. Antisense drugs utilizing various antisense mechanisms are demonstrating therapeutic potential for the treatment of a broad variety of diseases. This review focuses on some of the advances that have taken place in translating antisense technology from the bench to the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Nguyen Pham
- Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Carlsbad, California 92010;
| | - Eric Swayze
- Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Carlsbad, California 92010;
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25
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Abstract
Oligonucleotide-based therapeutics have made rapid progress in the clinic for treatment of a variety of disease indications. Unmodified oligonucleotides are polyanionic macromolecules with poor drug-like properties. Over the past two decades, medicinal chemists have identified a number of chemical modification and conjugation strategies which can improve the nuclease stability, RNA-binding affinity, and pharmacokinetic properties of oligonucleotides for therapeutic applications. In this perspective, we present a summary of the most commonly used nucleobase, sugar and backbone modification, and conjugation strategies used in oligonucleotide medicinal chemistry.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Brad Wan
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Ionis Pharmaceuticals , 2855 Gazelle Court, Carlsbad, California 92010, United States
| | - Punit P Seth
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Ionis Pharmaceuticals , 2855 Gazelle Court, Carlsbad, California 92010, United States
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