1
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Wang Y, Zhou J, Yang Q, Li X, Qiu Y, Zhang Y, Liu M, Zhu AJ. Therapeutic siRNA targeting PLIN2 ameliorates steatosis, inflammation, and fibrosis in steatotic liver disease models. J Lipid Res 2024:100635. [PMID: 39187042 DOI: 10.1016/j.jlr.2024.100635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2024] [Revised: 07/10/2024] [Accepted: 08/13/2024] [Indexed: 08/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is the most prevalent chronic liver disease worldwide. If left untreated, MASLD can progress from simple hepatic steatosis to metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), which is characterized by inflammation and fibrosis. Current treatment options for MASLD remain limited, leaving substantial unmet medical needs for innovative therapeutic approaches. Here, we show that PLIN2, a lipid droplet protein inhibiting hepatic lipolysis, serves as a promising therapeutic target for MASLD. Hepatic PLIN2 levels were markedly elevated in multiple MASLD mouse models induced by diverse nutritional and genetic factors. The liver-specific deletion of Plin2 exhibited significant anti-MASLD effects in these models. To translate this discovery into a therapeutic application, we developed a GalNAc-siRNA conjugate with enhanced stability chemistry and validated its potent and sustained efficacy in suppressing Plin2 expression in mouse livers. This siRNA therapeutic, named GalNAc-siPlin2, was shown to be biosafe in mice. Treatment with GalNAc-siPlin2 for 6-8 weeks led to a decrease in hepatic triglyceride levels by approximately 60% in high-fat diet- and obesity-induced MASLD mouse models, accompanied with increased hepatic secretion of very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL)-triglyceride and enhanced thermogenesis in brown adipose tissues. 8-week treatment with GalNAc-siPlin2 significantly improved hepatic steatosis, inflammation and fibrosis in high fat/high fructose-induced MASH models compared to control group. As a proof of concept, we developed a GalNAc-siRNA therapeutic targeting human PLIN2, which effectively suppressed hepatic PLIN2 expression and ameliorated MASLD in humanized PLIN2 knock-in mice. Together, our results highlight the potential of GalNAc-siPLIN2 as a candidate MASLD therapeutic for clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Wang
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation, School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Jiaxin Zhou
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation, School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Qi Yang
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation, School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Xinmeng Li
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Beijing Key Laboratory of Cardiometabolic Molecular Medicine, College of Future Technology, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Yifu Qiu
- Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China; Institute of Molecular Medicine, Beijing Key Laboratory of Cardiometabolic Molecular Medicine, College of Future Technology, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Yansong Zhang
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation, School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China; Peking University Chengdu Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Biotechnologies, Chengdu, Sichuan 610213, China.
| | - Min Liu
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation, School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China; Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China.
| | - Alan Jian Zhu
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation, School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China; Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China; Peking University Chengdu Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Biotechnologies, Chengdu, Sichuan 610213, China.
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2
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Hussen BM, Abdullah SR, Mohammed AA, Rasul MF, Hussein AM, Eslami S, Glassy MC, Taheri M. Advanced strategies of targeting circular RNAs as therapeutic approaches in colorectal cancer drug resistance. Pathol Res Pract 2024; 260:155402. [PMID: 38885593 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2024.155402] [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: 02/21/2024] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) stands second in terms of mortality and third among the highest prevalent kinds of cancer globally. CRC prevalence is rising in moderately and poorly developed regions and is greater in economically advanced regions. Despite breakthroughs in targeted therapy, resistance to chemotherapeutics remains a significant challenge in the long-term management of CRC. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been involved in growing cancer therapy resistance, particularly in CRC, according to an increasing number of studies in recent years. CircRNAs are one of the novel subclasses of non-coding RNAs, previously thought of as viroid. According to studies, circRNAs have been recommended as biological markers for therapeutic targets and diagnostic and prognostic purposes. That is particularly notable given that the expression of circRNAs has been linked to the hallmarks of CRC since they are responsible for drug resistance in CRC patients; thereby, circRNAs are significant for chemotherapy failure. Moreover, knowledge concerning circRNAs remains relatively unclear despite using all these advanced techniques. Here, in this study, we will go over the most recent published work to highlight the critical roles of circRNAs in CRC development and drug resistance and highlight the main strategies to overcome drug resistance to improve clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bashdar Mahmud Hussen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Science, Cihan University-Erbil, Kurdistan Region, Iraq; Department of Clinical Analysis, College of Pharmacy, Hawler Medical University, Erbil, Kurdistan Region, Iraq
| | - Snur Rasool Abdullah
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Health Sciences, Lebanese French University, Erbil, Kurdistan Region, Iraq
| | | | - Mohammed Fatih Rasul
- Department of Pharmaceutical Basic Science, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tishk International University, Erbil, Kurdistan Region, Iraq
| | - Ali M Hussein
- Department of Clinical Analysis, College of Pharmacy, Hawler Medical University, Erbil, Kurdistan Region, Iraq
| | - Solat Eslami
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran; Non-communicable Diseases Research Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Mark C Glassy
- Translational Neuro-Oncology Laboratory, San Diego (UCSD) Moores Cancer Center, University of California, CA, United States
| | - Mohammad Taheri
- Institute of Human Genetics, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany.
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3
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Pei J, Tian Y, Dang Y, Ye W, Liu X, Zhao N, Han J, Yang Y, Zhou Z, Zhu X, Zhang H, Ali A, Li Y, Zhang F, Lei Y, Qian A. Flexible nano-liposomes-encapsulated recombinant UL8-siRNA (r/si-UL8) based on bioengineering strategy inhibits herpes simplex virus-1 infection. Antiviral Res 2024; 228:105936. [PMID: 38908520 DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2024.105936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/24/2024]
Abstract
Herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1) infection can cause various diseases and the current therapeutics have limited efficacy. Small interfering RNA (siRNA) therapeutics are a promising approach against infectious diseases by targeting the viral mRNAs directly. Recently, we employed a novel tRNA scaffold to produce recombinant siRNA agents with few natural posttranscriptional modifications. In this study, we aimed to develop a specific prodrug against HSV-1 infection based on siRNA therapeutics by bioengineering technology. We screened and found that UL8 of the HSV-1 genome was an ideal antiviral target based on RNAi. Next, we used a novel bio-engineering approach to manufacture recombinant UL8-siRNA (r/si-UL8) in Escherichia coli with high purity and activity. The r/si-UL8 was selectively processed to mature si-UL8 and significantly reduced the number of infectious virions in human cells. r/si-UL8 delivered by flexible nano-liposomes significantly decreased the viral load in the skin and improved the survival rate in the preventive mouse zosteriform model. Furthermore, r/si-UL8 also effectively inhibited HSV-1 infection in a 3D human epidermal skin model. Taken together, our results highlight that the novel siRNA bioengineering technology is a unique addition to the conventional approach for siRNA therapeutics and r/si-UL8 may be a promising prodrug for curing HSV-1 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiawei Pei
- Lab for Bone Metabolism, Xi'an Key Laboratory of Special Medicine and Health Engineering, Key Lab for Space Biosciences and Biotechnology, Research Center for Special Medicine and Health Systems Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, 710072, China; Department of Microbiology, School of Preclinical Medicine, Airforce Medical University: Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Ye Tian
- Lab for Bone Metabolism, Xi'an Key Laboratory of Special Medicine and Health Engineering, Key Lab for Space Biosciences and Biotechnology, Research Center for Special Medicine and Health Systems Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, 710072, China
| | - Yamei Dang
- Department of Microbiology, School of Preclinical Medicine, Airforce Medical University: Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Wei Ye
- Department of Microbiology, School of Preclinical Medicine, Airforce Medical University: Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xiaoqian Liu
- Department of Microbiology, School of Preclinical Medicine, Airforce Medical University: Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Ningbo Zhao
- Department of Microbiology, School of Preclinical Medicine, Airforce Medical University: Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jiangfan Han
- Lab for Bone Metabolism, Xi'an Key Laboratory of Special Medicine and Health Engineering, Key Lab for Space Biosciences and Biotechnology, Research Center for Special Medicine and Health Systems Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, 710072, China
| | - Yongheng Yang
- Department of Microbiology, School of Preclinical Medicine, Airforce Medical University: Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Ziqing Zhou
- Department of Microbiology, School of Preclinical Medicine, Airforce Medical University: Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xudong Zhu
- Department of Microbiology, School of Preclinical Medicine, Airforce Medical University: Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Hao Zhang
- Lab for Bone Metabolism, Xi'an Key Laboratory of Special Medicine and Health Engineering, Key Lab for Space Biosciences and Biotechnology, Research Center for Special Medicine and Health Systems Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, 710072, China
| | - Arshad Ali
- GMU-GIBH Joint School of Life Sciences, The Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Joint Laboratory for Cell Fate Regulation and Diseases, Guangzhou Medical University, China
| | - Yu Li
- Institute of Medical Research, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Fanglin Zhang
- Department of Microbiology, School of Preclinical Medicine, Airforce Medical University: Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yingfeng Lei
- Department of Microbiology, School of Preclinical Medicine, Airforce Medical University: Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Airong Qian
- Lab for Bone Metabolism, Xi'an Key Laboratory of Special Medicine and Health Engineering, Key Lab for Space Biosciences and Biotechnology, Research Center for Special Medicine and Health Systems Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, 710072, China.
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4
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Jin SE, Sung JH. Delivery Strategies of siRNA Therapeutics for Hair Loss Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:7612. [PMID: 39062852 PMCID: PMC11277092 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25147612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2024] [Revised: 06/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Therapeutic needs for hair loss are intended to find small interfering ribonucleic acid (siRNA) therapeutics for breakthrough. Since naked siRNA is restricted to meet a druggable target in clinic,, delivery systems are indispensable to overcome intrinsic and pathophysiological barriers, enhancing targetability and persistency to ensure safety, efficacy, and effectiveness. Diverse carriers repurposed from small molecules to siRNA can be systematically or locally employed in hair loss therapy, followed by the adoption of new compositions associated with structural and environmental modification. The siRNA delivery systems have been extensively studied via conjugation or nanoparticle formulation to improve their fate in vitro and in vivo. In this review, we introduce clinically tunable siRNA delivery systems for hair loss based on design principles, after analyzing clinical trials in hair loss and currently approved siRNA therapeutics. We further discuss a strategic research framework for optimized siRNA delivery in hair loss from the scientific perspective of clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Su-Eon Jin
- Epi Biotech Co., Ltd., Incheon 21984, Republic of Korea
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5
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Bishani A, Meschaninova MI, Zenkova MA, Chernolovskaya EL. The Impact of Chemical Modifications on the Interferon-Inducing and Antiproliferative Activity of Short Double-Stranded Immunostimulating RNA. Molecules 2024; 29:3225. [PMID: 38999177 PMCID: PMC11243415 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29133225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2024] [Revised: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
A short 19 bp dsRNA with 3'-trinucleotide overhangs acting as immunostimulating RNA (isRNA) demonstrated strong antiproliferative action against cancer cells, immunostimulatory activity through activation of cytokines and Type-I IFN secretion, as well as anti-tumor and anti-metastatic effects in vivo. The aim of this study was to determine the tolerance of chemical modifications (2'-F, 2'-OMe, PS, cholesterol, and amino acids) located at different positions within this isRNA to its ability to activate the innate immune system. The obtained duplexes were tested in vivo for their ability to activate the synthesis of interferon-α in mice, and in tumor cell cultures for their ability to inhibit their proliferation. The obtained data show that chemical modifications in the composition of isRNA have different effects on its individual functions, including interferon-inducing and antiproliferative effects. The effect of modifications depends not only on the type of modification but also on its location and the surrounding context of the modifications. This study made it possible to identify leader patterns of modifications that enhance the properties of isRNA: F2/F2 and F2_S/F2 for interferon-inducing activity, as well as F2_S5/F2_S5, F2-NH2/F2-NH2, and Ch-F2/Ch-F2 for antiproliferative action. These modifications can improve the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties, as well as increase the specificity of isRNA action to obtain the desired effect.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Elena L. Chernolovskaya
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine SB RAS, Lavrentiev Ave. 8, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (A.B.); (M.I.M.); (M.A.Z.)
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6
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Wang P, Zhou Y, Wang J, Zhou Y, Zhang X, Liu Y, Li A, He Y, Chen S, Qian A, Wang X, Nie Y, Fan D, Cao T, Lu Y, Zhao X. miR-107 reverses the multidrug resistance of gastric cancer by targeting the CGA/EGFR/GATA2 positive feedback circuit. J Biol Chem 2024; 300:107522. [PMID: 38960034 PMCID: PMC11345541 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2024.107522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 06/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapy is still the main therapeutic strategy for gastric cancer (GC). However, most patients eventually acquire multidrug resistance (MDR). Hyperactivation of the EGFR signaling pathway contributes to MDR by promoting cancer cell proliferation and inhibiting apoptosis. We previously identified the secreted protein CGA as a novel ligand of EGFR and revealed a CGA/EGFR/GATA2 positive feedback circuit that confers MDR in GC. Herein, we outline a microRNA-based treatment approach for MDR reversal that targets both CGA and GATA2. We observed increased expression of CGA and GATA2 and increased activation of EGFR in GC samples. Bioinformatic analysis revealed that miR-107 could simultaneously target CGA and GATA2, and the low expression of miR-107 was correlated with poor prognosis in GC patients. The direct interactions between miR-107 and CGA or GATA2 were validated by luciferase reporter assays and Western blot analysis. Overexpression of miR-107 in MDR GC cells increased their susceptibility to chemotherapeutic agents, including fluorouracil, adriamycin, and vincristine, in vitro. Notably, intratumor injection of the miR-107 prodrug enhanced MDR xenograft sensitivity to chemotherapies in vivo. Molecularly, targeting CGA and GATA2 with miR-107 inhibited EGFR downstream signaling, as evidenced by the reduced phosphorylation of ERK and AKT. These results suggest that miR-107 may contribute to the development of a promising therapeutic approach for the treatment of MDR in GC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei Wang
- Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China; Department of Gastroenterology, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yelu Zhou
- Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Juan Wang
- Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yun Zhou
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xiaohui Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yanxing Liu
- Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Ang Li
- Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yangsong He
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Shuyi Chen
- Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China; School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Airong Qian
- Key Laboratory for Space Biosciences and Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yongzhan Nie
- Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Daiming Fan
- Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Tianyu Cao
- Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Yuanyuan Lu
- Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Xiaodi Zhao
- Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.
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Sharma NK, Dwivedi P, Bhushan R, Maurya PK, Kumar A, Dakal TC. Engineering circular RNA for molecular and metabolic reprogramming. Funct Integr Genomics 2024; 24:117. [PMID: 38918231 DOI: 10.1007/s10142-024-01394-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2024] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
The role of messenger RNA (mRNA) in biological systems is extremely versatile. However, it's extremely short half-life poses a fundamental restriction on its application. Moreover, the translation efficiency of mRNA is also limited. On the contrary, circular RNAs, also known as circRNAs, are a common and stable form of RNA found in eukaryotic cells. These molecules are synthesized via back-splicing. Both synthetic circRNAs and certain endogenous circRNAs have the potential to encode proteins, hence suggesting the potential of circRNA as a gene expression machinery. Herein, we aim to summarize all engineering aspects that allow exogenous circular RNA (circRNA) to prolong the time that proteins are expressed from full-length RNA signals. This review presents a systematic engineering approach that have been devised to efficiently assemble circRNAs and evaluate several aspects that have an impact on protein production derived from. We have also reviewed how optimization of the key components of circRNAs, including the topology of vector, 5' and 3' untranslated sections, entrance site of the internal ribosome, and engineered aptamers could be efficiently impacting the translation machinery for molecular and metabolic reprogramming. Collectively, molecular and metabolic reprogramming present a novel way of regulating distinctive cellular features, for instance growth traits to neoplastic cells, and offer new possibilities for therapeutic inventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narendra Kumar Sharma
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Banasthali Vidyapith (Deemed University), P.O. Banasthali Vidyapith Distt. Tonk, Rajasthan, 304 022, India.
| | - Pragya Dwivedi
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Banasthali Vidyapith (Deemed University), P.O. Banasthali Vidyapith Distt. Tonk, Rajasthan, 304 022, India
| | - Ravi Bhushan
- Department of Zoology, M.S. College, Motihari, Bihar, India
| | - Pawan Kumar Maurya
- Department of Biochemistry, Central University of Haryana, Mahendergarh, 123031, Haryana, India
| | - Abhishek Kumar
- Institute of Bioinformatics, International Technology Park, Bangalore, 560066, Karnataka, India
- Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, Karnataka, India
| | - Tikam Chand Dakal
- Genome and Computational Biology Lab, Department of Biotechnology, Mohanlal Sukhadia University, Udaipur, Rajasthan, 313001, India.
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8
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Batra N, Tu MJ, Yu AM. Molecular Engineering of Functional SiRNA Agents. ACS Synth Biol 2024; 13:1906-1915. [PMID: 38733599 PMCID: PMC11197084 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.4c00181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
Synthetic biology constitutes a scientific domain focused on intentional redesign of organisms to confer novel functionalities or create new products through strategic engineering of their genetic makeup. Leveraging the inherent capabilities of nature, one may address challenges across diverse sectors including medicine. Inspired by this concept, we have developed an innovative bioengineering platform, enabling high-yield and large-scale production of biological small interfering RNA (BioRNA/siRNA) agents via bacterial fermentation. Herein, we show that with the use of a new tRNA fused pre-miRNA carrier, we can produce various forms of BioRNA/siRNA agents within living host cells. We report a high-level overexpression of nine target BioRNA/siRNA molecules at 100% success rate, yielding 3-10 mg of BioRNA/siRNA per 0.25 L of bacterial culture with high purity (>98%) and low endotoxin (<5 EU/μg RNA). Furthermore, we demonstrate that three representative BioRNA/siRNAs against GFP, BCL2, and PD-L1 are biologically active and can specifically and efficiently silence their respective targets with the potential to effectively produce downstream antiproliferation effects by PD-L1-siRNA. With these promising results, we aim to advance the field of synthetic biology by offering a novel platform to bioengineer functional siRNA agents for research and drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neelu Batra
- Department of Biochemistry
and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School
of Medicine, Sacramento, California 95817, United States
| | - Mei-Juan Tu
- Department of Biochemistry
and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School
of Medicine, Sacramento, California 95817, United States
| | - Ai-Ming Yu
- Department of Biochemistry
and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School
of Medicine, Sacramento, California 95817, United States
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9
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Vatanparast M, Merkel L, Amari K. Exogenous Application of dsRNA in Plant Protection: Efficiency, Safety Concerns and Risk Assessment. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6530. [PMID: 38928236 PMCID: PMC11204322 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25126530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2024] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The use of double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) for plant protection shows great potential as a sustainable alternative to traditional pesticides. This review summarizes the current state of knowledge on using exogenous dsRNA in plant protection and includes the latest findings on the safety and efficiency of this strategy. The review also emphasizes the need for a cautious and comprehensive approach, considering safety considerations such as off-target effects and formulation challenges. The regulatory landscape in different regions is also discussed, underscoring the need for specific guidelines tailored to dsRNA-based pesticides. The review provides a crucial resource for researchers, regulators, and industry stakeholders, promoting a balanced approach incorporating innovation with thorough safety assessments. The continuous dialog emphasized in this review is essential for shaping the future of dsRNA-based plant protection. As the field advances, collaboration among scientists, regulators, and industry partners will play a vital role in establishing guidelines and ensuring the responsible, effective, and sustainable use of dsRNA in agriculture.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Khalid Amari
- Julius Kühn Institute (JKI), Federal Research Centre for Cultivated Plant, Institute for Biosafety in Plant Biotechnology, D-06484 Quedlinburg, Germany
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10
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Androsavich JR. Frameworks for transformational breakthroughs in RNA-based medicines. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2024; 23:421-444. [PMID: 38740953 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-024-00943-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
RNA has sparked a revolution in modern medicine, with the potential to transform the way we treat diseases. Recent regulatory approvals, hundreds of new clinical trials, the emergence of CRISPR gene editing, and the effectiveness of mRNA vaccines in dramatic response to the COVID-19 pandemic have converged to create tremendous momentum and expectation. However, challenges with this relatively new class of drugs persist and require specialized knowledge and expertise to overcome. This Review explores shared strategies for developing RNA drug platforms, including layering technologies, addressing common biases and identifying gaps in understanding. It discusses the potential of RNA-based therapeutics to transform medicine, as well as the challenges associated with improving applicability, efficacy and safety profiles. Insights gained from RNA modalities such as antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) and small interfering RNAs are used to identify important next steps for mRNA and gene editing technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- John R Androsavich
- RNA Accelerator, Pfizer Inc, Cambridge, MA, USA.
- Ginkgo Bioworks, Boston, MA, USA.
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11
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Guo F, Li Y, Yu W, Fu Y, Zhang J, Cao H. Recent Progress of Small Interfering RNA Delivery on the Market and Clinical Stage. Mol Pharm 2024; 21:2081-2096. [PMID: 38630656 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.3c01158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
Small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) are promising therapeutic strategies, and five siRNA drugs have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Commission (EC). This marks a significant milestone in the development of siRNA for clinical applications. The approved siRNA agents can effectively deliver siRNAs to the liver and treat liver-related diseases. Currently, researchers have developed diverse delivery platforms for transporting siRNAs to different tissues such as the brain, lung, muscle, and others, and a large number of siRNA drugs are undergoing clinical trials. Here, these delivery technologies and the latest advancements in clinical applications are summarized, and this Review provides a concise overview of the strategies employed for siRNA delivery to both hepatic and extrahepatic tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Guo
- School of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, Shandong 264003, China
- Yantai Key Laboratory of Nanomedicine & Advanced Preparations, Yantai Institute of Materia Medica, Shandong 264000, China
| | - Yan Li
- Yantai Key Laboratory of Nanomedicine & Advanced Preparations, Yantai Institute of Materia Medica, Shandong 264000, China
- Shandong Laboratory of Yantai Drug Discovery, Bohai Rim Advanced Research Institute for Drug Discovery, Yantai, Shandong 264117, China
| | - Wenjun Yu
- Yantai Key Laboratory of Nanomedicine & Advanced Preparations, Yantai Institute of Materia Medica, Shandong 264000, China
- Shandong Laboratory of Yantai Drug Discovery, Bohai Rim Advanced Research Institute for Drug Discovery, Yantai, Shandong 264117, China
| | - Yuanlei Fu
- Yantai Key Laboratory of Nanomedicine & Advanced Preparations, Yantai Institute of Materia Medica, Shandong 264000, China
- Shandong Laboratory of Yantai Drug Discovery, Bohai Rim Advanced Research Institute for Drug Discovery, Yantai, Shandong 264117, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, Shandong 264003, China
| | - Haiqiang Cao
- Yantai Key Laboratory of Nanomedicine & Advanced Preparations, Yantai Institute of Materia Medica, Shandong 264000, China
- Shandong Laboratory of Yantai Drug Discovery, Bohai Rim Advanced Research Institute for Drug Discovery, Yantai, Shandong 264117, China
- Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
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12
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Chen Y, Li Y, Li C, Zhang D, Liu Y, Zhang J, Guan S, Ding X, Xiao Q. The current perspective and opportunities of small nucleic acid-based therapeutics. Drug Dev Res 2024; 85:e22164. [PMID: 38411296 DOI: 10.1002/ddr.22164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2023] [Revised: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
Compared to traditional small molecule and antibody drugs, RNA-based drugs offer a simple design, short research and development cycles, high specificity, broad treatment fields, and long-term efficacy. As a result, RNA-based drugs are extensively used to treat genetic diseases, tumors, viral infections, and other illnesses, suggesting that they have the potential to become the third-largest drug class after small molecule and antibody drugs. Currently, more than 10 small nucleic acid drugs have gained regulatory approval. The commercialization successes of small nucleic acid drugs will stimulate the development of RNA-based drugs. Small nucleic acid drugs primarily target liver diseases, metabolic diseases, genetic diseases, and tumors, and there is also significant potential for expanding indications in the future. This review provides a brief overview of the advantages and development of small nucleic acid-based therapeutics and shows a focus on platform technologies such as chemical modifications and delivery systems that have enabled the clinical translation of small nucleic acid-based therapeutics. Additionally, we summarize the latest clinical progress in small nucleic acid-based therapeutics for the treatment of various diseases, including rare diseases, liver diseases, metabolic diseases, and tumors. Finally, we highlight the future prospects for this promising treatment approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Chen
- Department of Microbiology and Biochemical Pharmacy, National Engineering Research Center of Immunological Products, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yang Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Chao Li
- Department of Microbiology and Biochemical Pharmacy, National Engineering Research Center of Immunological Products, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Dandan Zhang
- Department of Microbiology and Biochemical Pharmacy, National Engineering Research Center of Immunological Products, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yuheng Liu
- Department of Microbiology and Biochemical Pharmacy, National Engineering Research Center of Immunological Products, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jingjing Zhang
- Department of Microbiology and Biochemical Pharmacy, National Engineering Research Center of Immunological Products, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Shan Guan
- Department of Microbiology and Biochemical Pharmacy, National Engineering Research Center of Immunological Products, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaoyan Ding
- Department of Pediatrics, Ludwig-Maximilians University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Qin Xiao
- Department of Microbiology and Biochemical Pharmacy, National Engineering Research Center of Immunological Products, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
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13
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Abdullah ST, Abdullah SR, Hussen BM, Younis YM, Rasul MF, Taheri M. Role of circular RNAs and gut microbiome in gastrointestinal cancers and therapeutic targets. Noncoding RNA Res 2024; 9:236-252. [PMID: 38192436 PMCID: PMC10771991 DOI: 10.1016/j.ncrna.2023.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Gastrointestinal cancers are a huge worldwide health concern, which includes a wide variety of digestive tract cancers. Circular RNAs (circRNAs), a kind of non-coding RNA (ncRNAs), are a family of single-stranded, covalently closed RNAs that have become recognized as crucial gene expression regulators, having an impact on several cellular functions in cancer biology. The gut microbiome, which consists of several different bacteria, actively contributes to the regulation of host immunity, inflammation, and metabolism. CircRNAs and the gut microbiome interact significantly to greatly affect the growth of GI cancer. Several studies focus on the complex functions of circRNAs and the gut microbiota in GI cancers, including esophageal cancer, colorectal cancer, gastric cancer, hepatocellular cancer, and pancreatic cancer. It also emphasizes how changed circRNA expression profiles and gut microbiota affect pathways connected to malignancy as well as how circRNAs affect hallmarks of gastrointestinal cancers. Furthermore, circRNAs and gut microbiota have been recommended as biological markers for therapeutic targets as well as diagnostic and prognostic purposes. Targeting circRNAs and the gut microbiota for the treatment of gastrointestinal cancers is also being continued to study. Despite significant initiatives, the connection between circRNAs and the gut microbiota and the emergence of gastrointestinal cancers remains poorly understood. In this study, we will go over the most recent studies to emphasize the key roles of circRNAs and gut microbiota in gastrointestinal cancer progression and therapeutic options. In order to create effective therapies and plan for the future gastrointestinal therapy, it is important to comprehend the functions and mechanisms of circRNAs and the gut microbiota.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Tharwat Abdullah
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Hawler Medical University, Erbil, Iraq
| | - Snur Rasool Abdullah
- Medical Laboratory Science, College of Health Sciences, Lebanese French University, Kurdistan Region, Erbil, Iraq
| | - Bashdar Mahmud Hussen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Science, Cihan University-Erbil, Kurdistan Region, 44001, Iraq
- Department of Clinical Analysis, College of Pharmacy, Hawler Medical University, Kurdistan Region, Erbil, Iraq
| | - Yousif Mohammed Younis
- Department of Nursing, College of Nursing, Lebanese French University, Kurdistan Region, Erbil, Iraq
| | - Mohammed Fatih Rasul
- Department of Pharmaceutical Basic Science, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tishk International University, Erbil, Kurdistan Region, Iraq
| | - Mohammad Taheri
- Institute of Human Genetics, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
- Urology and Nephrology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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14
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Vaswani CM, Simone J, Pavelick JL, Wu X, Tan GW, Ektesabi AM, Gupta S, Tsoporis JN, Dos Santos CC. Tiny Guides, Big Impact: Focus on the Opportunities and Challenges of miR-Based Treatments for ARDS. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2812. [PMID: 38474059 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2024] [Revised: 02/24/2024] [Accepted: 02/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) is characterized by lung inflammation and increased membrane permeability, which represents the leading cause of mortality in ICUs. Mechanical ventilation strategies are at the forefront of supportive approaches for ARDS. Recently, an increasing understanding of RNA biology, function, and regulation, as well as the success of RNA vaccines, has spurred enthusiasm for the emergence of novel RNA-based therapeutics. The most common types of RNA seen in development are silencing (si)RNAs, antisense oligonucleotide therapy (ASO), and messenger (m)RNAs that collectively account for 80% of the RNA therapeutics pipeline. These three RNA platforms are the most mature, with approved products and demonstrated commercial success. Most recently, miRNAs have emerged as pivotal regulators of gene expression. Their dysregulation in various clinical conditions offers insights into ARDS pathogenesis and offers the innovative possibility of using microRNAs as targeted therapy. This review synthesizes the current state of the literature to contextualize the therapeutic potential of miRNA modulation. It considers the potential for miR-based therapeutics as a nuanced approach that incorporates the complexity of ARDS pathophysiology and the multifaceted nature of miRNA interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chirag M Vaswani
- Department of Physiology, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, St. Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5B 1W8, Canada
| | - Julia Simone
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8V 5C2, Canada
| | - Jacqueline L Pavelick
- Institute of Medical Sciences, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Xiao Wu
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, St. Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5B 1W8, Canada
| | - Greaton W Tan
- Department of Physiology, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, St. Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5B 1W8, Canada
| | - Amin M Ektesabi
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, St. Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5B 1W8, Canada
- Institute of Medical Sciences, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Sahil Gupta
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Herston, QLD 4006, Australia
| | - James N Tsoporis
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, St. Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5B 1W8, Canada
| | - Claudia C Dos Santos
- Department of Physiology, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, St. Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5B 1W8, Canada
- Institute of Medical Sciences, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
- Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
- Interdepartmental Division of Critical Care, St. Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5B 1W8, Canada
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15
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Rebolledo LP, Ke W, Cedrone E, Wang J, Majithia K, Johnson MB, Dokholyan NV, Dobrovolskaia MA, Afonin KA. Immunostimulation of Fibrous Nucleic Acid Nanoparticles Can be Modulated through Aptamer-Based Functional Moieties: Unveiling the Structure-Activity Relationship and Mechanistic Insights. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:8430-8441. [PMID: 38344840 PMCID: PMC10895590 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c17779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Fibrous nanomaterials containing silica, titanium oxide, and carbon nanotubes are notoriously known for their undesirable inflammatory responses and associated toxicities that have been extensively studied in the environmental and occupational toxicology fields. Biopersistance and inflammation of "hard" nanofibers prevent their broader biomedical applications. To utilize the structural benefits of fibrous nanomaterials for functionalization with moieties of therapeutic significance while preventing undesirable immune responses, researchers employ natural biopolymers─RNA and DNA─to design "soft" and biodegradable nanomaterials with controlled immunorecognition. Nucleic acid nanofibers have been shown to be safe and efficacious in applications that do not require their delivery into the cells such as the regulation of blood coagulation. Previous studies demonstrated that unlike traditional therapeutic nucleic acids (e.g., CpG DNA oligonucleotides) nucleic acid nanoparticles (NANPs), when used without a carrier, are not internalized by the immune cells and, as such, do not induce undesirable cytokine responses. In contrast, intracellular delivery of NANPs results in cytokine responses that are dependent on the physicochemical properties of these nanomaterials. However, the structure-activity relationship of innate immune responses to intracellularly delivered fibrous NANPs is poorly understood. Herein, we employ the intracellular delivery of model RNA/DNA nanofibers functionalized with G-quadruplex-based DNA aptamers to investigate how their structural properties influence cytokine responses. We demonstrate that nanofibers' scaffolds delivered to the immune cells using lipofectamine induce interferon response via the cGAS-STING signaling pathway activation and that DNA aptamers incorporation shields the fibers from recognition by cGAS and results in a lower interferon response. This structure-activity relationship study expands the current knowledge base to inform future practical applications of intracellularly delivered NANPs as vaccine adjuvants and immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura P Rebolledo
- Nanoscale Science Program, Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina Charlotte, Charlotte, North Carolina 28223, United States
| | - Weina Ke
- Nanoscale Science Program, Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina Charlotte, Charlotte, North Carolina 28223, United States
| | - Edward Cedrone
- Nanotechnology Characterization Laboratory, Cancer Research Technology Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research Sponsored by the National Cancer Institute, Frederick, Maryland 21701, United States
| | - Jian Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania 17033, United States
| | - Krishna Majithia
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Carolina Charlotte, Charlotte, North Carolina 28223, United States
| | - M Brittany Johnson
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Carolina Charlotte, Charlotte, North Carolina 28223, United States
| | - Nikolay V Dokholyan
- Department of Pharmacology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania 17033, United States
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania 17033, United States
| | - Marina A Dobrovolskaia
- Nanotechnology Characterization Laboratory, Cancer Research Technology Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research Sponsored by the National Cancer Institute, Frederick, Maryland 21701, United States
| | - Kirill A Afonin
- Nanoscale Science Program, Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina Charlotte, Charlotte, North Carolina 28223, United States
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16
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Moazzam M, Zhang M, Hussain A, Yu X, Huang J, Huang Y. The landscape of nanoparticle-based siRNA delivery and therapeutic development. Mol Ther 2024; 32:284-312. [PMID: 38204162 PMCID: PMC10861989 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2024.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 10/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Five small interfering RNA (siRNA)-based therapeutics have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), namely patisiran, givosiran, lumasiran, inclisiran, and vutrisiran. Besides, siRNA delivery to the target site without toxicity is a big challenge for researchers, and naked-siRNA delivery possesses several challenges, including membrane impermeability, enzymatic degradation, mononuclear phagocyte system (MPS) entrapment, fast renal excretion, endosomal escape, and off-target effects. The siRNA therapeutics can silence any disease-specific gene, but their intracellular and extracellular barriers limit their clinical applications. For this purpose, several modifications have been employed to siRNA for better transfection efficiency. Still, there is a quest for better delivery systems for siRNA delivery to the target site. In recent years, nanoparticles have shown promising results in siRNA delivery with minimum toxicity and off-target effects. Patisiran is a lipid nanoparticle (LNP)-based siRNA formulation for treating hereditary transthyretin-mediated amyloidosis that ultimately warrants the use of nanoparticles from different classes, especially lipid-based nanoparticles. These nanoparticles may belong to different categories, including lipid-based, polymer-based, and inorganic nanoparticles. This review briefly discusses the lipid, polymer, and inorganic nanoparticles and their sub-types for siRNA delivery. Finally, several clinical trials related to siRNA therapeutics are addressed, followed by the future prospects and conclusions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Moazzam
- Faculty of Engineering and Science, University of Greenwich, Medway Campus, Chatham Maritime, Kent ME4 4TB, UK
| | - Mengjie Zhang
- School of Life Science, Advanced Research Institute of Multidisciplinary Science, School of Medical Technology, Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Key Laboratory of Medical Molecule Science and Pharmaceutics Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Abid Hussain
- School of Life Science, Advanced Research Institute of Multidisciplinary Science, School of Medical Technology, Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Key Laboratory of Medical Molecule Science and Pharmaceutics Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Xiaotong Yu
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Medical Immunology of Ministry of Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China.
| | - Jia Huang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing 100029, China.
| | - Yuanyu Huang
- School of Life Science, Advanced Research Institute of Multidisciplinary Science, School of Medical Technology, Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Key Laboratory of Medical Molecule Science and Pharmaceutics Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China; Rigerna Therapeutics Co. Ltd., Suzhou 215127, China.
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17
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Liu C, Xia C, Xia C. Biology and function of exosomes in tumor immunotherapy. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 169:115853. [PMID: 37951023 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Exosomes are nano-scale extracellular vesicles that are found widely in various biological fluids. As messengers, exosomes deliver characteristic biological information from donor cells, facilitating their accumulation and subsequent transfer of information to tumor immune cells. Immunotherapy is a cutting-edge strategy for cancer therapy, but it has not yet reached its full potential owing to severe side effects and limited efficacy. Exosomes possess antigens and immunostimulatory molecules and can serve as cell-free vaccines to induce antitumor immunity. In addition, given their stability, low immunogenicity, and targeting ability, exosomes represent ideal drug delivery systems in tumor immunotherapy by delivering cargoes, including non-coding ribonucleic acids (RNAs), membrane proteins, chemotherapeutic agents, and immune cell death inducers. Exosomes can also be engineered to precisely target tumor cells. However, as a rising star in tumor immunotherapy, exosomes are also impeded by some challenges, including the lack of uniform technical standards for their isolation and purification, the need to improve exosomal cargo loading for efficient exosome delivery, and the expansion of clinical trials, which are currently in their infancy. Long-term, multi-center, and large-scale clinical trials are needed to evaluate the performance of exosomes in the future. Nonetheless, exosomes have demonstrated encouraging performance in tumor immunotherapy. In this review, we summarize the potential and challenges of exosomes in tumor immunotherapy, with the aim to shed light on exosomes as new-era tumor immunotherapy tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Can Liu
- Foshan Maternity and Chlid Healthcare Hospital, Foshan 528000, China; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 515150, China
| | - Cong Xia
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116023, China.
| | - Chenglai Xia
- Foshan Maternity and Chlid Healthcare Hospital, Foshan 528000, China; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 515150, China.
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18
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Hanafy MS, Dao HM, Xu H, Koleng JJ, Sakran W, Cui Z. Effect of the amount of cationic lipid used to complex siRNA on the cytotoxicity and proinflammatory activity of siRNA-solid lipid nanoparticles. Int J Pharm X 2023; 6:100197. [PMID: 37521246 PMCID: PMC10371828 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpx.2023.100197] [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] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
When preparing siRNA-encapsulated solid lipid nanoparticles (siRNA-SLNs), cationic lipids are commonly included to condense and lipophilize the siRNA and thus increase its encapsulation in the SLNs. Unfortunately, cationic lipids also contribute significantly to the cytotoxicity and proinflammatory activity of the SLNs. Previously, our group developed a TNF-α siRNA-SLN formulation that showed strong activity against rheumatoid arthritis unresponsive to methotrexate in a mouse model. The siRNA-SLNs were composed of lecithin, cholesterol, an acid-sensitive stearoyl polyethylene glycol (2000) conjugate, and siRNA complexes with 1,2-dioleoyl-3trimethylammonium-propane (DOTAP), a cationic lipid. The present study was designed to study the effect of the amount of DOTAP used to complex the siRNA on the cytotoxicity and proinflammatory activity of the resultant siRNA-SLNs. A small library of siRNA-SLNs prepared at various ratios of DOTAP to siRNA (i.e., nitrogen to phosphate (N/P) ratios ranging from 34:1 to 1:1) were prepared and characterized, and the cytotoxicity and proinflammatory activity of selected formulations were evaluated in cell culture. As expected, the siRNA-SLNs prepared at the highest N/P ratio showed the highest cytotoxicity to J774A.1 macrophage cells and reducing the N/P ratio lowered the cytotoxicity of the siRNA-SLNs. Unexpectedly, the cytotoxicity of the siRNA-SLNs reached the lowest at the N/P ratios of 16:1 and 12:1, and further reducing the N/P ratio resulted in siRNA-SLNs with increased cytotoxicity. For example, siRNA-SLNs prepared at the N/P ratio of 1:1 was more cytotoxic than the ones prepared at the N/P ratio 12:1. This finding was confirmed using neutrophils differentiated from mouse MPRO cell line. The DOTAP release from the siRNA-SLNs prepared at the N/P ratio of 1:1 was faster than from the ones prepared at the N/P ratio of 12:1. The siRNA-SLNs prepared at N/P ratios of 12:1 and 1:1 showed comparable proinflammatory activities in both macrophages and neutrophils. Additionally, the TNF-α siRNA-SLNs prepared at the N/P ratios of 12:1 and 1:1 were equally effective in downregulating TNF-α expression in J774A.1 macrophages. In conclusion, it was demonstrated that at least in vitro in cell culture, reducing the amount of cationic lipids used when preparing siRNA-SLNs can generally help reduce the cytotoxicity of the resultant SLNs, but siRNA-SLNs prepared with the lowest N/P ratio are not necessarily the least cytotoxic and proinflammatory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoud S. Hanafy
- Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics and Drug Delivery, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, TX, USA
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Helwan University, Egypt
| | - Huy M. Dao
- Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics and Drug Delivery, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, TX, USA
| | - Haiyue Xu
- Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics and Drug Delivery, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, TX, USA
| | | | - Wedad Sakran
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Helwan University, Egypt
| | - Zhengrong Cui
- Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics and Drug Delivery, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, TX, USA
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19
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Kaushal A. Innate immune regulations and various siRNA modalities. Drug Deliv Transl Res 2023; 13:2704-2718. [PMID: 37219704 PMCID: PMC10204684 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-023-01361-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
RNAi therapeutics are designed to produce the precise silencing effects against the gene-linked diseases which were known to be untreatable in the past. The highly immunostimulatory nature of siRNA enhances the off-target effects and easily get attacked by nucleases; hence, their modulation is essentially required for accurate alterations to be made in the structures to intensify the pharmacological attributes. The phosphonate modifications act as shield against undue phosphorylation effects, and the molecular changes in ribose sugar lowers the level of immunogenicity and increases the binding efficacy. When bases are substituted with virtual/or pseudo bases, they eventually reduce the off-target effects. These changes modulate the nucleic acid sensors and control the hyper-activation of innate immune response. Various modification designs based on STC (universal pattern), ESC, ESC + (advanced patterns) and disubstrate have been explored to silence the gene expression of various diseases e.g., hepatitis, HIV, influenza, RSV, CNV and acute kidney injury. This review describes the various innovative siRNA therapeutics and their implications on the developed immune regulations to silence the disease effects. siRNA causes the silencing effects through RISC processing. The innate immune signalling is induced by both TLR-dependent and TLR-independent pathways. Modification chemistries are utilized to modulate the immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anju Kaushal
- New Zealand Organization for Quality-Member, Auckland, New Zealand.
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20
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Shchaslyvyi AY, Antonenko SV, Tesliuk MG, Telegeev GD. Current State of Human Gene Therapy: Approved Products and Vectors. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1416. [PMID: 37895887 PMCID: PMC10609992 DOI: 10.3390/ph16101416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
In the realm of gene therapy, a pivotal moment arrived with Paul Berg's groundbreaking identification of the first recombinant DNA in 1972. This achievement set the stage for future breakthroughs. Conditions once considered undefeatable, like melanoma, pancreatic cancer, and a host of other ailments, are now being addressed at their root cause-the genetic level. Presently, the gene therapy landscape stands adorned with 22 approved in vivo and ex vivo products, including IMLYGIC, LUXTURNA, Zolgensma, Spinraza, Patisiran, and many more. In this comprehensive exploration, we delve into a rich assortment of 16 drugs, from siRNA, miRNA, and CRISPR/Cas9 to DNA aptamers and TRAIL/APO2L, as well as 46 carriers, from AAV, AdV, LNPs, and exosomes to naked mRNA, sonoporation, and magnetofection. The article also discusses the advantages and disadvantages of each product and vector type, as well as the current challenges faced in the practical use of gene therapy and its future potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aladdin Y. Shchaslyvyi
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Genetics, National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, 150, Zabolotnogo Str., 03143 Kyiv, Ukraine; (S.V.A.); (M.G.T.); (G.D.T.)
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21
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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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22
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De Paepe L, Cadoni E, Manicardi A, Madder A. Furan-modified PNA probes for covalent targeting and ligation of nucleic acids. Methods 2023; 218:210-223. [PMID: 37604247 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymeth.2023.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023] Open
Abstract
While natural oligonucleotides (ONs) are increasingly used as therapeutic and diagnostic tools, they still face certain challenges such as low resistance to enzymatic degradation, potential immunogenicity, and delivery issues, which can limit their applications. Peptide Nucleic Acids (PNAs) are promising alternatives due to their high affinity for DNA and RNA, the high resistance to enzymatic degradation, and the easy introduction of a wide range of potential modifications. Chemical modifications that enable the covalent targeting of specific DNA and RNA strands offer additional advantages, including enhanced potency. The current study focuses on the utilization of furan-PNAs as pro-reactive probe systems and their applications to DNA and RNA targeting. Specifically, in this methodological paper, we provide practical insights into the design, synthesis, and application of furan-containing PNA probes for achieving efficient PNA-DNA and PNA-RNA interstrand crosslinking (ICL), as well as ON-templated PNA-PNA ligation systems. Furthermore, we discuss the applications of these probes in targeting DNA secondary structures, such as G-quadruplexes and i-motifs, target pull-down assays, and on-surface detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lessandro De Paepe
- Organic and Biomimetic Chemistry Research Group, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S4, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Enrico Cadoni
- Organic and Biomimetic Chemistry Research Group, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S4, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Alex Manicardi
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze, 17/A, I-43124 Parma, Italy.
| | - Annemieke Madder
- Organic and Biomimetic Chemistry Research Group, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S4, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium.
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23
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Peng X, Chen X, Peng S, Chen Y, Li Y, Tian Y. CircPRRC2C Promotes the Oncogenic Phenotypes of Laryngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cells via MiR-136-5p/HOXD11 Axis. Mol Biotechnol 2023:10.1007/s12033-023-00868-y. [PMID: 37728841 DOI: 10.1007/s12033-023-00868-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Abstract
The involvement of circular RNAs (circRNAs) in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) carcinogenesis has gradually been proposed. Herein, we aimed to explore the function and mechanism of circPRRC2C in LSCC. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and Western blotting were used for detecting the content of genes and proteins. In vitro experiments were conducted using 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine, colony formation, flow cytometry, and transwell assays. The binding between miR-136-5p and circPRRC2C or Homeobox D11 (HOXD11) was confirmed by using the dual-luciferase reporter assay. The murine xenograft model was established for in vivo analysis. The commercial kit was used for exosome separation. CircPRRC2C is a stable circRNA, and was highly expressed in LSCC tissues and cell lines. Functionally, circPRRC2C deficiency impaired LSCC cell proliferation, migration and invasion but induced cell apoptosis in vitro and impeded tumor growth in vivo, however, circPRRC2C overexpression showed the exact opposite effects. Mechanistically, circPRRC2C directly targeted miR-136-5p, which showed inhibitory effects on the growth and mobility of LSCC cells. Meanwhile, miR-136-5p directly targeted HOXD11, and circPRRC2C/miR-136-5p/HOXD11 formed a feedback loop in LSCC cells. Further rescue assays exhibited that circPRRC2C exerted its effects by miR-136-5p/HOXD11 axis. In addition, circPRRC2C was stably packaged into exosomes and showed potential diagnostic value for LSCC. CircPRRC2C acted as an oncogene to promote LSCC cell oncogenic phenotypes via miR-136-5p/HOXD11 axis, besides, circPRRC2C was stably packaged into exosomes, indicating the potential application of circPRRC2C-targeting agents in the treatment in LSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiu Peng
- Department of Otolaryngology, Wuhan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.49, Nihuangpi Road, Wuhan, 430022, Hubei, China
| | - Xintian Chen
- College of Life Science, South-Central MinZu University, Wuhan, 430074, China
- College of Resource and Environmental Science, South-Central MinZu University, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Shuai Peng
- Hubei Provincial Engineering Laboratory for Clean Production and High Value Utilization of Bio-Based Textile Materials, Wuhan Textile University, Wuhan, 430073, China.
- College of Life Science, South-Central MinZu University, Wuhan, 430074, China.
| | - Yingming Chen
- College of Resource and Environmental Science, South-Central MinZu University, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Yong Li
- Department of Otolaryngology, Wuhan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.49, Nihuangpi Road, Wuhan, 430022, Hubei, China.
| | - Yang Tian
- College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
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24
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Kumari A, Kaur A, Aggarwal G. The emerging potential of siRNA nanotherapeutics in treatment of arthritis. Asian J Pharm Sci 2023; 18:100845. [PMID: 37881798 PMCID: PMC10594572 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajps.2023.100845] [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] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi) using small interfering RNA (siRNA) has shown potential as a therapeutic option for the treatment of arthritis by silencing specific genes. However, siRNA delivery faces several challenges, including stability, targeting, off-target effects, endosomal escape, immune response activation, intravascular degradation, and renal clearance. A variety of nanotherapeutics like lipidic nanoparticles, liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, and solid lipid nanoparticles have been developed to improve siRNA cellular uptake, protect it from degradation, and enhance its therapeutic efficacy. Researchers are also investigating chemical modifications and bioconjugation to reduce its immunogenicity. This review discusses the potential of siRNA nanotherapeutics as a therapeutic option for various immune-mediated diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, etc. siRNA nanotherapeutics have shown an upsurge of interest and the future looks promising for such interdisciplinary approach-based modalities that combine the principles of molecular biology, nanotechnology, and formulation sciences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anjali Kumari
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University, New Delhi 110017, India
| | - Amanpreet Kaur
- Centre for Advanced Formulation Technology, Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research, New Delhi 110017, India
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University, New Delhi 110017, India
| | - Geeta Aggarwal
- Centre for Advanced Formulation Technology, Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research, New Delhi 110017, India
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University, New Delhi 110017, India
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25
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Abstract
Nucleic-acid nanostructures, which have been designed and constructed with atomic precision, have been used as scaffolds for different molecules and proteins, as nanomachines, as computational components, and more. In particular, RNA has garnered tremendous interest as a building block for the self-assembly of sophisticated and functional nanostructures by virtue of its ease of synthesis by in vivo or in vitro transcription, its superior mechanical and thermodynamic properties, and its functional roles in nature. In this Topical Review, we describe recent developments in the use of RNA for the design and construction of nanostructures. We discuss the differences between RNA and DNA that make RNA attractive as a building block for the construction of nucleic-acid nanostructures, and we present the uses of different nanostructures─RNA alone, RNA-DNA, and functional RNA nanostructures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ofer I Wilner
- Department of Chemistry, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Doron Yesodi
- Department of Chemistry, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Yossi Weizmann
- Department of Chemistry, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva 84105, Israel.,Ilse Katz Institute for Nanotechnology Science, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva 84105, Israel.,Goldman Sonnenfeldt School of Sustainability and Climate Change, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva 84105, Israel
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26
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Wang Y, Liu Y, Xu Y, Xing H, Tian Z, Tang K, Rao Q, Wang M, Wang J. AML1-ETO-Related Fusion Circular RNAs Contribute to the Proliferation of Leukemia Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 24:ijms24010071. [PMID: 36613512 PMCID: PMC9820653 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Revised: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The AML1-ETO (RUNX1-RUNX1T1) fusion gene created by the chromosome translocation t(8;21) (q21;q22) is one of the essential contributors to leukemogenesis. Only a few studies in the literature have focused on fusion gene-derived circular RNAs (f-circRNAs). Here, we report several AML1-ETO-related fusion circular RNAs (F-CircAEs) in AML1-ETO-positive cell lines and primary patient blasts. Functional studies demonstrate that the over-expression of F-CircAE in NIH3T3 cells promotes cell proliferation in vitro and in vivo. F-CircAE expression enhances the colony formation ability of c-Kit+ hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs). Meanwhile, the knockdown of endogenous F-CircAEs can inhibit the proliferation and colony formation ability of AML1-ETO-positive Kasumi-1 cells. Intriguingly, bioinformatic analysis revealed that the glycolysis pathway is down-regulated in F-CircAE-knockdown Kasumi-1 cells and up-regulated in F-CircAE over-expressed NIH3T3 cells. Further studies show that F-CircAE binds to the glycolytic protein ENO-1, up-regulates the expression level of glycolytic enzymes, and enhances lactate production. In summary, our study demonstrates that F-CircAE may exert biological activities on the growth of AML1-ETO leukemia cells by regulating the glycolysis pathway. Determining the role of F-CircAEs in AML1-ETO leukemia can lead to great strides in understanding its pathogenesis, thus providing new diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Institute of Hematology and Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin 300020, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Blood Diseases, Institute of Hematology and Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin 300020, China
| | - Yu Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Institute of Hematology and Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin 300020, China
| | - Yingxi Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Institute of Hematology and Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin 300020, China
| | - Haiyan Xing
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Institute of Hematology and Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin 300020, China
| | - Zheng Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Institute of Hematology and Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin 300020, China
| | - Kejing Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Institute of Hematology and Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin 300020, China
| | - Qing Rao
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Institute of Hematology and Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin 300020, China
| | - Min Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Institute of Hematology and Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin 300020, China
- Correspondence: (M.W.); (J.W.)
| | - Jianxiang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Institute of Hematology and Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin 300020, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Blood Diseases, Institute of Hematology and Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin 300020, China
- Correspondence: (M.W.); (J.W.)
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27
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Shraim AS, Abdel Majeed BA, Al-Binni M, Hunaiti A. Therapeutic Potential of Aptamer-Protein Interactions. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2022; 5:1211-1227. [PMID: 36524009 PMCID: PMC9745894 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.2c00156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Aptamers are single-stranded oligonucleotides (RNA or DNA) with a typical length between 25 and 100 nucleotides which fold into three-dimensional structures capable of binding to target molecules. Specific aptamers can be isolated against a large variety of targets through efficient and relatively cheap methods, and they demonstrate target-binding affinities that sometimes surpass those of antibodies. Consequently, interest in aptamers has surged over the past three decades, and their application has shown promise in advancing knowledge in target analysis, designing therapeutic interventions, and bioengineering. With emphasis on their therapeutic applications, aptamers are emerging as a new innovative class of therapeutic agents with promising biochemical and biological properties. Aptamers have the potential of providing a feasible alternative to antibody- and small-molecule-based therapeutics given their binding specificity, stability, low toxicity, and apparent non-immunogenicity. This Review examines the general properties of aptamers and aptamer-protein interactions that help to understand their binding characteristics and make them important therapeutic candidates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ala’a S. Shraim
- Department
of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Al-Ahliyya Amman University, 19328 Amman, Jordan
- Pharmacological
and Diagnostic Research Center (PDRC), Al-Ahliyya
Amman University, 19328 Amman, Jordan
| | - Bayan A. Abdel Majeed
- Department
of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Al-Ahliyya Amman University, 19328 Amman, Jordan
- Pharmacological
and Diagnostic Research Center (PDRC), Al-Ahliyya
Amman University, 19328 Amman, Jordan
| | - Maysaa’
Adnan Al-Binni
- Department
of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, School of Science, The University of Jordan, 11942 Amman, Jordan
| | - Abdelrahim Hunaiti
- Department
of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, School of Science, The University of Jordan, 11942 Amman, Jordan
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28
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de la Torre C, Játiva P, Posadas I, Manzanares D, Blanco JLJ, Mellet CO, Fernández JMG, Ceña V. A β-Cyclodextrin-Based Nanoparticle with Very High Transfection Efficiency Unveils siRNA-Activated TLR3 Responses in Human Prostate Cancer Cells. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:2424. [PMID: 36365241 PMCID: PMC9692777 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14112424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Synthetic double-stranded small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) mimic interference RNAs (RNAi) and can bind target mRNAs with a high degree of specificity, leading to selective knockdown of the proteins they encode. However, siRNAs are very labile and must be both protected and transported by nanoparticles to be efficiently delivered into cells. In this work, we used a Janus-type polycationic amphiphilic β-cyclodextrin derivative to efficiently transfect siRNAs targeting mRNAs encoding mitogen-activated protein kinase (p42-MAPK) or Ras homolog enriched in brain (Rheb) into different cancer cell lines as well as astrocytes. We took advantage of this high transfection efficiency to simultaneously knock down p42-MAPK and Rheb to boost docetaxel (DTX)-mediated toxicity in two human prostate cancer cell lines (LNCaP and PC3). We found that double knockdown of p42-MAPK and Rheb increased DTX-toxicity in LNCaP but not in PC3 cells. However, we also observed the same effect when scramble siRNA was used, therefore pointing to an off-target effect. Indeed, we found that the siRNA we used in this work induced toll-like receptor 3 activation, leading to β-interferon production and caspase activation. We believe that this mechanism could be very useful as a general strategy to elicit an immune response against prostate cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina de la Torre
- Unidad Asociada Neurodeath, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, 02006 Albacete, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica En Red (CIBER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Pablo Játiva
- Unidad Asociada Neurodeath, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, 02006 Albacete, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica En Red (CIBER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Inmaculada Posadas
- Unidad Asociada Neurodeath, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, 02006 Albacete, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica En Red (CIBER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Darío Manzanares
- Unidad Asociada Neurodeath, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, 02006 Albacete, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica En Red (CIBER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - José L. Jiménez Blanco
- Departamento de Química Orgánica, Facultad de Química, Universidad de Sevilla, 41012 Sevilla, Spain
| | - Carmen Ortiz Mellet
- Departamento de Química Orgánica, Facultad de Química, Universidad de Sevilla, 41012 Sevilla, Spain
| | | | - Valentín Ceña
- Unidad Asociada Neurodeath, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, 02006 Albacete, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica En Red (CIBER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
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29
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Thakur S, Sinhari A, Jain P, Jadhav HR. A perspective on oligonucleotide therapy: Approaches to patient customization. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1006304. [PMID: 36339619 PMCID: PMC9626821 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1006304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
It is estimated that the human genome encodes 15% of proteins that are considered to be disease-modifying. Only 2% of these proteins possess a druggable site that the approved clinical candidates target. Due to this disparity, there is an immense need to develop therapeutics that may better mitigate the disease or disorders aroused by non-druggable and druggable proteins or enzymes. The recent surge in approved oligonucleotide therapeutics (OT) indicates the imminent potential of these therapies. Oligonucleotide-based therapeutics are of intermediate size with much-improved selectivity towards the target and fewer off-target effects than small molecules. The OTs include Antisense RNAs, MicroRNA (MIR), small interfering RNA (siRNA), and aptamers, which are currently being explored for their use in neurodegenerative disorders, cancer, and even orphan diseases. The present review is a congregated effort to present the past and present of OTs and the current efforts to make OTs for plausible future therapeutics. The review provides updated literature on the challenges and bottlenecks of OT and recent advancements in OT drug delivery. Further, this review deliberates on a newly emerging approach to personalized treatment for patients with rare and fatal diseases with OT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shikha Thakur
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy, Birla Institute of Technology and Sciences Pilani, Pilani, RJ, India
| | - Apurba Sinhari
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy, Birla Institute of Technology and Sciences Pilani, Pilani, RJ, India
| | - Priti Jain
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University, New Delhi, India
| | - Hemant R. Jadhav
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy, Birla Institute of Technology and Sciences Pilani, Pilani, RJ, India
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30
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Abosalha AK, Boyajian J, Ahmad W, Islam P, Ghebretatios M, Schaly S, Thareja R, Arora K, Prakash S. Clinical pharmacology of siRNA therapeutics: current status and future prospects. Expert Rev Clin Pharmacol 2022; 15:1327-1341. [PMID: 36251525 DOI: 10.1080/17512433.2022.2136166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Small interfering RNA (siRNA) has emerged as a powerful tool for post-transcriptional downregulation of multiple genes for various therapies. Naked siRNA molecules are surrounded by several barriers that tackle their optimum delivery to target tissues such as limited cellular uptake, short circulation time, degradation by endonucleases, glomerular filtration, and capturing by the reticuloendothelial system (RES). AREAS COVERED This review provides insights into studies that investigate various siRNA-based therapies, focusing on the mechanism, delivery strategies, bioavailability, pharmacokinetic, and pharmacodynamics of naked and modified siRNA molecules. The clinical pharmacology of currently approved siRNA products is also discussed. EXPERT OPINION Few siRNA-based products have been approved recently by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and other regulatory agencies after approximately twenty years following its discovery due to the associated limitations. The absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion of siRNA therapeutics are highly restricted by several obstacles, resulting in rapid clearance of siRNA-based therapeutic products from systemic circulation before reaching the cytosol of targeted cells. The siRNA therapeutics however are very promising in many diseases, including gene therapy and SARS-COV-2 viral infection. The design of suitable delivery vehicles and developing strategies toward better pharmacokinetic parameters may solve the challenges of siRNA therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Khaled Abosalha
- Biomedical Technology and Cell Therapy Research Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, H3A 2B4, Canada.,Pharmaceutical Technology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | - Jacqueline Boyajian
- Biomedical Technology and Cell Therapy Research Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Waqar Ahmad
- Biomedical Technology and Cell Therapy Research Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Paromita Islam
- Biomedical Technology and Cell Therapy Research Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Merry Ghebretatios
- Biomedical Technology and Cell Therapy Research Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Sabrina Schaly
- Biomedical Technology and Cell Therapy Research Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Rahul Thareja
- Biomedical Technology and Cell Therapy Research Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Karan Arora
- Biomedical Technology and Cell Therapy Research Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Satya Prakash
- Biomedical Technology and Cell Therapy Research Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, H3A 2B4, Canada
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31
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Hofmeister A, Jahn-Hofmann K, Brunner B, Helms M, Metz-Weidmann C, Krack A, Kurz M, Heubel C, Scheidler S. Small Interfering RNAs Containing Dioxane- and Morpholino-Derived Nucleotide Analogues Show Improved Off-Target Profiles and Chirality-Dependent In Vivo Knock-Down. J Med Chem 2022; 65:13736-13752. [PMID: 36223135 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c00873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
To expand the applicability of recently developed dioxane- and morpholino-based nucleotide analogues, their seed region destabilizing properties in small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) were investigated in order to improve potential off-target profiles. For this purpose, the corresponding adenosine analogues were synthesized in two diastereomeric series as building blocks for the automated oligonucleotide synthesis. The obtained nucleotide precursors were integrated at position 7 of an siRNA antisense strand, targeting transthyretin messenger RNA. Evaluation of the melting temperatures revealed significant differences in the obtained duplex stabilities between the two diastereomeric series, while the influence of the central scaffold was small. All siRNAs containing these novel nucleotide structures showed improved off-target profiles in vitro compared to their parent sequence with the common 2'-OMe-modified adenosine at the same position. In contrast, in vivo potencies were highly dependent on the chirality within the six-membered nucleotide scaffolds and showed high mRNA downregulations for the (2R,6R)-configured diastereomers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Armin Hofmeister
- Sanofi R&D, Industrial Park Hoechst, Frankfurt am Main 65926, Germany
| | | | - Bodo Brunner
- Sanofi R&D, Industrial Park Hoechst, Frankfurt am Main 65926, Germany
| | - Mike Helms
- Sanofi R&D, Industrial Park Hoechst, Frankfurt am Main 65926, Germany
| | | | - Arne Krack
- Sanofi R&D, Industrial Park Hoechst, Frankfurt am Main 65926, Germany
| | - Michael Kurz
- Sanofi R&D, Industrial Park Hoechst, Frankfurt am Main 65926, Germany
| | - Christoph Heubel
- Sanofi R&D, Industrial Park Hoechst, Frankfurt am Main 65926, Germany
| | - Sabine Scheidler
- Sanofi R&D, Industrial Park Hoechst, Frankfurt am Main 65926, Germany
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32
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Synthetic Non-Coding RNA for Suppressing mTOR Translation to Prevent Renal Fibrosis Related to Autophagy in UUO Mouse Model. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231911365. [PMID: 36232665 PMCID: PMC9569483 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231911365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The global burden of chronic kidney disease is increasing, and the majority of these diseases are progressive. Special site-targeted drugs are emerging as alternatives to traditional drugs. Oligonucleotides (ODNs) have been proposed as effective therapeutic tools in specific molecular target therapies for several diseases. We designed ring-type non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), also called mTOR ODNs to suppress mammalian target rapamycin (mTOR) translation. mTOR signaling is associated with excessive cell proliferation and fibrogenesis. In this study, we examined the effects of mTOR suppression on chronic renal injury. To explore the regulation of fibrosis and inflammation in unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO)-induced injury, we injected synthesized ODNs via the tail vein of mice. The expression of inflammatory-related markers (interleukin-1β, tumor necrosis factor-α), and that of fibrosis (α-smooth muscle actin, fibronectin), was decreased by synthetic ODNs. Additionally, ODN administration inhibited the expression of autophagy-related markers, microtubule-associated protein light chain 3, Beclin1, and autophagy-related gene 5-12. We confirmed that ring-type ODNs inhibited fibrosis, inflammation, and autophagy in a UUO mouse model. These results suggest that mTOR may be involved in the regulation of autophagy and fibrosis and that regulating mTOR signaling may be a therapeutic strategy against chronic renal injury.
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33
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Vaillant A. Oligonucleotide-Based Therapies for Chronic HBV Infection: A Primer on Biochemistry, Mechanisms and Antiviral Effects. Viruses 2022; 14:v14092052. [PMID: 36146858 PMCID: PMC9502277 DOI: 10.3390/v14092052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Three types of oligonucleotide-based medicines are under clinical development for the treatment of chronic HBV infection. Antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) and synthetic interfering RNA (siRNA) are designed to degrade HBV mRNA, and nucleic acid polymers (NAPs) stop the assembly and secretion of HBV subviral particles. Extensive clinical development of ASOs and siRNA for a variety of liver diseases has established a solid understanding of their pharmacodynamics, accumulation in different tissue types in the liver, pharmacological effects, off-target effects and how chemical modifications and delivery approaches affect these parameters. These effects are highly conserved for all ASO and siRNA used in human studies to date. The clinical assessment of several ASO and siRNA compounds in chronic HBV infection in recent years is complicated by the different delivery approaches used. Moreover, these assessments have not considered the large clinical database of ASO/siRNA function in other liver diseases and known off target effects in other viral infections. The goal of this review is to summarize the current understanding of ASO/siRNA/NAP pharmacology and integrate these concepts into current clinical results for these compounds in the treatment of chronic HBV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Vaillant
- Replicor Inc., 6100 Royalmount Avenue, Montreal, QC H4P 2R2, Canada
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Antisense Oligonucleotides and Small Interfering RNA for the Treatment of Dyslipidemias. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11133884. [PMID: 35807171 PMCID: PMC9267663 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11133884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Revised: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The burden of atherosclerotic disease worldwide necessitates implementing the treatment of its risk factors. Among them, hypercholesterolemia has a central role. In addition to conventional small organic compounds and the recently introduced monoclonal antibodies, new technologies are arising such as the antisense oligonucleotides and small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) that operate upstream, blocking the mRNA translation of the proteins specifically involved in lipid metabolism. In this review, we briefly explain the mechanisms of action of these molecules and discuss the difficulties related to their in vivo use as therapeutical agents. We go over the oligonucleotides tested in clinical trials that could potentially revolutionize the care of patients by acting on proteins involved in the lipoprotein metabolism and regulation, namely: angiopoietin-like protein 3 (ANGPTL3); lipoprotein a (Lp(a)); apolipoprotein B (Apo B); apolipoprotein C III (Apo C-III); and proprotein convertase subtilisin–kexin type 9 (PCSK9). Finally, the differences between ASOs and siRNAs, their future possible clinical applications, and the role of Inclisiran, a siRNA direct against PCSK9 to reduce LDL-C, were reviewed in detail.
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de Brito e Cunha D, Frederico ABT, Azamor T, Melgaço JG, da Costa Neves PC, Bom APDA, Tilli TM, Missailidis S. Biotechnological Evolution of siRNA Molecules: From Bench Tool to the Refined Drug. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15050575. [PMID: 35631401 PMCID: PMC9146980 DOI: 10.3390/ph15050575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The depth and versatility of siRNA technologies enable their use in disease targets that are undruggable by small molecules or that seek to achieve a refined turn-off of the genes for any therapeutic area. Major extracellular barriers are enzymatic degradation of siRNAs by serum endonucleases and RNAases, renal clearance of the siRNA delivery system, the impermeability of biological membranes for siRNA, activation of the immune system, plasma protein sequestration, and capillary endothelium crossing. To overcome the intrinsic difficulties of the use of siRNA molecules, therapeutic applications require nanometric delivery carriers aiming to protect double-strands and deliver molecules to target cells. This review discusses the history of siRNAs, siRNA design, and delivery strategies, with a focus on progress made regarding siRNA molecules in clinical trials and how siRNA has become a valuable asset for biopharmaceutical companies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle de Brito e Cunha
- Immunological Technology Laboratory, Institute of Technology in Immunobiologicals, Bio-Manguinhos, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, Brazil; (D.d.B.e.C.); (A.B.T.F.); (T.A.); (J.G.M.); (P.C.d.C.N.); (A.P.D.A.B.); (S.M.)
| | - Ana Beatriz Teixeira Frederico
- Immunological Technology Laboratory, Institute of Technology in Immunobiologicals, Bio-Manguinhos, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, Brazil; (D.d.B.e.C.); (A.B.T.F.); (T.A.); (J.G.M.); (P.C.d.C.N.); (A.P.D.A.B.); (S.M.)
| | - Tamiris Azamor
- Immunological Technology Laboratory, Institute of Technology in Immunobiologicals, Bio-Manguinhos, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, Brazil; (D.d.B.e.C.); (A.B.T.F.); (T.A.); (J.G.M.); (P.C.d.C.N.); (A.P.D.A.B.); (S.M.)
| | - Juliana Gil Melgaço
- Immunological Technology Laboratory, Institute of Technology in Immunobiologicals, Bio-Manguinhos, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, Brazil; (D.d.B.e.C.); (A.B.T.F.); (T.A.); (J.G.M.); (P.C.d.C.N.); (A.P.D.A.B.); (S.M.)
| | - Patricia Cristina da Costa Neves
- Immunological Technology Laboratory, Institute of Technology in Immunobiologicals, Bio-Manguinhos, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, Brazil; (D.d.B.e.C.); (A.B.T.F.); (T.A.); (J.G.M.); (P.C.d.C.N.); (A.P.D.A.B.); (S.M.)
| | - Ana Paula Dinis Ano Bom
- Immunological Technology Laboratory, Institute of Technology in Immunobiologicals, Bio-Manguinhos, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, Brazil; (D.d.B.e.C.); (A.B.T.F.); (T.A.); (J.G.M.); (P.C.d.C.N.); (A.P.D.A.B.); (S.M.)
| | - Tatiana Martins Tilli
- Translational Oncology Platform, Center for Technological Development in Health, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, Brazil
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, Brazil
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +55-21-2562-1312
| | - Sotiris Missailidis
- Immunological Technology Laboratory, Institute of Technology in Immunobiologicals, Bio-Manguinhos, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, Brazil; (D.d.B.e.C.); (A.B.T.F.); (T.A.); (J.G.M.); (P.C.d.C.N.); (A.P.D.A.B.); (S.M.)
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Noncoding-RNA-Based Therapeutics with an Emphasis on Prostatic Carcinoma—Progress and Challenges. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:vaccines10020276. [PMID: 35214734 PMCID: PMC8877701 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10020276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Revised: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) defy the central dogma by representing a family of RNA molecules that are not translated into protein but can convey information encoded in their DNA. Elucidating the exact function of ncRNA has been a focus of discovery in the last decade and remains challenging. Nevertheless, the importance of understanding ncRNA is apparent since these molecules regulate gene expression at the transcriptional and post-transcriptional level exerting pleiotropic effects critical in development, oncogenesis, and immunity. NcRNAs have been referred to as “the dark matter of the nucleus”, and unraveling their role in physiologic and pathologic processes will provide vast opportunities for basic and translational research with the potential for significant therapeutic progress. Consequently, strong efforts are underway to exploit the therapeutic utility of ncRNA, some of which have been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration and the European Medicines Agency. The use of ncRNA therapeutics (or “vaccines” if defined as anti-disease agents) may result in improved curative strategies when used alone or in combination with existing treatments. This review will focus on the role of ncRNA therapeutics in prostatic carcinoma while exploring basic biological aspects of these molecules that represent about 97% of the transcriptome in humans.
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Hajieghrari B, Farrokhi N. Plant RNA-mediated gene regulatory network. Genomics 2021; 114:409-442. [PMID: 34954000 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygeno.2021.12.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Revised: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Not all transcribed RNAs are protein-coding RNAs. Many of them are non-protein-coding RNAs in diverse eukaryotes. However, some of them seem to be non-functional and are resulted from spurious transcription. A lot of non-protein-coding transcripts have a significant function in the translation process. Gene expressions depend on complex networks of diverse gene regulatory pathways. Several non-protein-coding RNAs regulate gene expression in a sequence-specific system either at the transcriptional level or post-transcriptional level. They include a significant part of the gene expression regulatory network. RNA-mediated gene regulation machinery is evolutionarily ancient. They well-evolved during the evolutionary time and are becoming much more complex than had been expected. In this review, we are trying to summarizing the current knowledge in the field of RNA-mediated gene silencing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Behzad Hajieghrari
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, Jahrom University, Jahrom, Iran.
| | - Naser Farrokhi
- Department of Cell, Molecular Biology Faculty of Life Sciences, Biotechnology, Shahid Beheshti University, G. C Evin, Tehran, Iran.
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Activation of Innate Immunity by Therapeutic Nucleic Acids. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222413360. [PMID: 34948156 PMCID: PMC8704878 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222413360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Nucleic acid-based therapeutics have gained increased attention during recent decades because of their wide range of application prospects. Immunostimulatory nucleic acids represent a promising class of potential drugs for the treatment of tumoral and viral diseases due to their low toxicity and stimulation of the body’s own innate immunity by acting on the natural mechanisms of its activation. The repertoire of nucleic acids that directly interact with the components of the immune system is expanding with the improvement of both analytical methods and methods for the synthesis of nucleic acids and their derivatives. Despite the obvious progress in this area, the problem of delivering therapeutic acids to target cells as well as the unresolved issue of achieving a specific therapeutic effect based on activating the mechanism of interferon and anti-inflammatory cytokine synthesis. Minimizing the undesirable effects of excessive secretion of inflammatory cytokines remains an unsolved task. This review examines recent data on the types of immunostimulatory nucleic acids, the receptors interacting with them, and the mechanisms of immunity activation under the action of these molecules. Finally, data on immunostimulatory nucleic acids in ongoing and completed clinical trials will be summarized.
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Fàbrega C, Aviñó A, Eritja R. Chemical Modifications in Nucleic Acids for Therapeutic and Diagnostic Applications. CHEM REC 2021; 22:e202100270. [DOI: 10.1002/tcr.202100270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Carme Fàbrega
- Department of Surfactants and Nanobiotechnology Institute for Advanced Chemistry of Catalonia (IQAC) Spanish National Research Council (CSIC) Jordi Girona 18–26 E-08034 Barcelona Spain
- Networking Center on Bioengineering Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN) E-08034 Barcelona Spain
| | - Anna Aviñó
- Department of Surfactants and Nanobiotechnology Institute for Advanced Chemistry of Catalonia (IQAC) Spanish National Research Council (CSIC) Jordi Girona 18–26 E-08034 Barcelona Spain
- Networking Center on Bioengineering Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN) E-08034 Barcelona Spain
| | - Ramon Eritja
- Department of Surfactants and Nanobiotechnology Institute for Advanced Chemistry of Catalonia (IQAC) Spanish National Research Council (CSIC) Jordi Girona 18–26 E-08034 Barcelona Spain
- Networking Center on Bioengineering Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN) E-08034 Barcelona Spain
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Kim HY, Kim TR, Kim SH, Kim IH, Lim JO, Park JH, Yun S, Lee IC, Park HO, Kim JC. Four-Week Repeated Intravenous Dose Toxicity of Self-Assembled-Micelle Inhibitory RNA-Targeting Amphiregulin in Mice. Int J Toxicol 2021; 40:453-465. [PMID: 34286615 DOI: 10.1177/10915818211031241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The present study investigated the potential subchronic toxicity of self-assembled-micelle inhibitory RNA-targeting amphiregulin (SAMiRNA-AREG) in mice. The test reagent was administered once-daily by intravenous injection for 4 weeks at 0, 100, 200, or 300 mg/kg/day doses. Additional recovery groups (vehicle control and high dose groups) were observed for a 2-week recovery period. During the test period, mortality, clinical signs, body weight, food consumption, ophthalmology, urinalysis, hematology, serum biochemistry, gross pathology, organ weight, and histopathology were examined. An increase in the percentages of basophil and large unstained cells was observed in the 200 and 300 mg/kg/day groups of both sexes. In addition, the absolute and relative weights of the spleen were higher in males given 300 mg/kg/day relative to the concurrent controls. However, these findings were considered of no toxicological significance because the changes were minimal, were not accompanied by other relevant results (eg, correlating microscopic changes), and were not observed at the end of the 2-week recovery period indicating recovery of the findings. Based on the results, SAMiRNA-AREG did not cause treatment-related adverse effects at dose levels of up to 300 mg/kg/day in mice after 4-week repeated intravenous doses. Under these conditions, the no-observed-adverse-effect level of the SAMiRNA-AREG was ≥300 mg/kg/day in both sexes and no target organs were identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyeon-Young Kim
- Jeonbuk Branch Institute, 443298Korea Institute of Toxicology, Jeongeup, Republic of Korea
- College of Veterinary Medicine, 34931Chonnam National University, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae Rim Kim
- 65404siRNAgen Therapeutics and Bioneer Corporation, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Hwan Kim
- Jeonbuk Branch Institute, 443298Korea Institute of Toxicology, Jeongeup, Republic of Korea
| | - In-Hyeon Kim
- Jeonbuk Branch Institute, 443298Korea Institute of Toxicology, Jeongeup, Republic of Korea
- College of Veterinary Medicine, 34931Chonnam National University, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
| | - Je-Oh Lim
- College of Veterinary Medicine, 34931Chonnam National University, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
| | - Jun Hong Park
- 65404siRNAgen Therapeutics and Bioneer Corporation, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Sungil Yun
- 65404siRNAgen Therapeutics and Bioneer Corporation, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - In-Chul Lee
- Functional Biomaterial Research Center, 54679Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Jeongeup, Republic of Korea
| | - Han-Oh Park
- 65404siRNAgen Therapeutics and Bioneer Corporation, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong-Choon Kim
- College of Veterinary Medicine, 34931Chonnam National University, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
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41
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Sehrawat S, Kaur M. Galectin-3 as a modifier of anti-microbial immunity: Unraveling the unknowns. Glycobiology 2021; 30:418-426. [PMID: 31985798 DOI: 10.1093/glycob/cwaa005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2019] [Revised: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Galectins play diverse roles in pathophysiology of infectious diseases and cancers. Galectin-3 is one of the most studied family member and the only chimeric type lectin. Many aspects of its biogenesis, range of activities, and the disease-modifying potential particularly during microbial infections are yet to be known. We review our current understanding of these issues and also highlight gaps in better defining the immune modulatory potential of galectin-3 during different stages of host responsiveness when an infection sets in. Additionally, we discuss commonly used strategies to disrupt galectin-3 functions both extracellulalry and intracellularly. Existing and improved novel strategies could help fine-tune immune responses to achieve better prognosis of infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharvan Sehrawat
- Department of Biological Science, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Mohali, SAS Nagar Knowledge City, PO Manauli, Mohali 140306 India
| | - Manpreet Kaur
- Department of Biological Science, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Mohali, SAS Nagar Knowledge City, PO Manauli, Mohali 140306 India
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Liu J, Zhang Y, Zeng H, Wang L, Zhang Q, Wu P, Liu X, Xie H, Xiang W, Liu B, Liu J, Liu X, Xie J, Tang J, Long Z, He L, Xiao M, Xiang L, Cao K. Fe-doped chrysotile nanotubes containing siRNAs to silence SPAG5 to treat bladder cancer. J Nanobiotechnology 2021; 19:189. [PMID: 34162370 PMCID: PMC8220725 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-021-00935-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND For certain human cancers, sperm associated antigen 5 (SPAG5) exerts important functions for their development and progression. However, whether RNA interference (RNAi) targeting SPAG5 has antitumor effects has not been determined clinically. RESULTS The results indicated that Fe-doped chrysotile nanotubes (FeSiNTs) with a relatively uniform outer diameter (15-25 nm) and inner diameter (7-8 nm), and a length of several hundred nanometers, which delivered an siRNA against the SPAG5 oncogene (siSPAG5) efficiently. The nanomaterials were designed to prolong the half-life of siSPAG5 in blood, increase tumor cell-specific uptake, and maximize the efficiency of SPAG5 silencing. In vitro, FeSiNTs carrying siSPAG5 inhibited the growth, migration, and invasion of bladder cancer cells. In vivo, the FeSiNTs inhibited growth and metastasis in three models of bladder tumors (a tail vein injection lung metastatic model, an in-situ bladder cancer model, and a subcutaneous model) with no obvious toxicities. Mechanistically, we showed that FeSiNTs/siSPAG5 repressed PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling, which suppressed the growth and progression of tumor cells. CONCLUSIONS The results highlight that FeSiNTs/siSPAG5 caused no activation of the innate immune response nor any systemic toxicity, indicating the possible therapeutic utility of FeSiNTs/siSPAG5 to deliver siSPAG5 to treat bladder cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianye Liu
- Department of Urology, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410013, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- School of Minerals Processing and Bioengineering, Central South University, Changsha, 410083, China
| | - Hongliang Zeng
- Research Institute of Chinese Medicine, Hunan Academy of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, 410013, China
| | - Long Wang
- Department of Urology, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410013, China
| | - Qun Zhang
- Department of Radiotherapy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Pei Wu
- Department of Operation Center, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Xiaoming Liu
- Department of Digestive, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410013, China
| | - Hongyi Xie
- School of Minerals Processing and Bioengineering, Central South University, Changsha, 410083, China
| | - Wei Xiang
- Department of Urology, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410013, China
| | - Biao Liu
- Department of Urology, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410013, China
| | - Jiahao Liu
- Department of Urology, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410013, China
| | - Xuewen Liu
- Department of Oncology, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, No.138, Tongzipo Road, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Jianfei Xie
- Department of Nursing, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410013, China
| | - Jin Tang
- Department of Urology, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410013, China
| | - Zhi Long
- Department of Urology, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410013, China
| | - Leye He
- Department of Urology, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410013, China
| | - Mengqing Xiao
- Department of Oncology, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, No.138, Tongzipo Road, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Liang Xiang
- Department of Oncology, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, No.138, Tongzipo Road, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Ke Cao
- Department of Oncology, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, No.138, Tongzipo Road, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China.
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He AT, Liu J, Li F, Yang BB. Targeting circular RNAs as a therapeutic approach: current strategies and challenges. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2021; 6:185. [PMID: 34016945 PMCID: PMC8137869 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-021-00569-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 243] [Impact Index Per Article: 81.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 02/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Significant progress has been made in circular RNA (circRNA) research in recent years. Increasing evidence suggests that circRNAs play important roles in many cellular processes, and their dysregulation is implicated in the pathogenesis of various diseases. CircRNAs are highly stable and usually expressed in a tissue- or cell type-specific manner. Therefore, they are currently being explored as potential therapeutic targets. Gain-of-function and loss-of-function approaches are typically performed using circRNA expression plasmids and RNA interference-based strategies, respectively. These strategies have limitations that can be mitigated using nanoparticle and exosome delivery systems. Furthermore, recent developments show that the cre-lox system can be used to knockdown circRNAs in a cell-specific manner. While still in the early stages of development, the CRISPR/Cas13 system has shown promise in knocking down circRNAs with high specificity and efficiency. In this review, we describe circRNA properties and functions and highlight their significance in disease. We summarize strategies that can be used to overexpress or knockdown circRNAs as a therapeutic approach. Lastly, we discuss major challenges and propose future directions for the development of circRNA-based therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alina T. He
- grid.17063.330000 0001 2157 2938Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, ON Canada
| | - Jinglei Liu
- Department of Bioinformatics, ATCGene Inc, Guangzhou, China
| | - Feiya Li
- grid.17063.330000 0001 2157 2938Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, ON Canada ,grid.17063.330000 0001 2157 2938Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON Canada
| | - Burton B. Yang
- grid.17063.330000 0001 2157 2938Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, ON Canada ,grid.17063.330000 0001 2157 2938Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON Canada
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44
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Kumar R, Santa Chalarca CF, Bockman MR, Bruggen CV, Grimme CJ, Dalal RJ, Hanson MG, Hexum JK, Reineke TM. Polymeric Delivery of Therapeutic Nucleic Acids. Chem Rev 2021; 121:11527-11652. [PMID: 33939409 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.0c00997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 149] [Impact Index Per Article: 49.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The advent of genome editing has transformed the therapeutic landscape for several debilitating diseases, and the clinical outlook for gene therapeutics has never been more promising. The therapeutic potential of nucleic acids has been limited by a reliance on engineered viral vectors for delivery. Chemically defined polymers can remediate technological, regulatory, and clinical challenges associated with viral modes of gene delivery. Because of their scalability, versatility, and exquisite tunability, polymers are ideal biomaterial platforms for delivering nucleic acid payloads efficiently while minimizing immune response and cellular toxicity. While polymeric gene delivery has progressed significantly in the past four decades, clinical translation of polymeric vehicles faces several formidable challenges. The aim of our Account is to illustrate diverse concepts in designing polymeric vectors towards meeting therapeutic goals of in vivo and ex vivo gene therapy. Here, we highlight several classes of polymers employed in gene delivery and summarize the recent work on understanding the contributions of chemical and architectural design parameters. We touch upon characterization methods used to visualize and understand events transpiring at the interfaces between polymer, nucleic acids, and the physiological environment. We conclude that interdisciplinary approaches and methodologies motivated by fundamental questions are key to designing high-performing polymeric vehicles for gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramya Kumar
- Department of Chemistry, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | | | - Matthew R Bockman
- Department of Chemistry, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Craig Van Bruggen
- Department of Chemistry, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Christian J Grimme
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Rishad J Dalal
- Department of Chemistry, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Mckenna G Hanson
- Department of Chemistry, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Joseph K Hexum
- Department of Chemistry, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Theresa M Reineke
- Department of Chemistry, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
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Kim HY, Kim TR, Kim SH, Kim IH, Ko Y, Yun S, Lee IC, Park HO, Kim JC. Genotoxicity evaluation of self-assembled-micelle inhibitory RNA-targeting amphiregulin (SAMiRNA-AREG), a novel siRNA nanoparticle for the treatment of fibrotic disease. Drug Chem Toxicol 2021; 45:2109-2115. [PMID: 33906534 DOI: 10.1080/01480545.2021.1908003] [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: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
The self-assembled-micelle inhibitory RNA-targeting amphiregulin (SAMiRNA-AREG) is a novel small-interfering RNA (siRNA) nanoparticle that is used for treatment of pulmonary fibrosis. We investigated the potential genotoxicity of SAMiRNA-AREG based on the guidelines published by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development. In the bacterial reverse mutation assay (Ames test), SAMiRNA-AREG did not induce mutations in Salmonella typhimurium TA100, TA1535, TA98, and TA1537 and Escherichia coli WP2uvrA at concentrations of up to 3000 μg/plate with or without metabolic activation. The SAMiRNA-AREG (concentrations up to 500 μg/mL) did not induce chromosomal aberrations in cultured Chinese hamster lung cells with or without metabolic activation. In the in vivo mouse bone marrow micronucleus assay, the SAMiRNA-AREG (concentrations up to 300 mg/kg body weight) did not affect the proportions of polychromatic erythrocytes and total erythrocytes, nor did it increase the number of micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes in ICR mice. Collectively, these results suggest that SAMiRNA-AREG is safe with regard to genotoxicity such as mutagenesis or clastogenesis under the present experimental conditions. These results might support the safety of SAMiRNA-AREG as a potential therapeutic agent for pharmaceutical development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyeon-Young Kim
- Jeonbuk Branch Institute, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Jeongeup, Republic of Korea.,College of Veterinary Medicine, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae Rim Kim
- siRNAgen therapeutics and Bioneer Corporation, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Hwan Kim
- Jeonbuk Branch Institute, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Jeongeup, Republic of Korea
| | - In-Hyeon Kim
- Jeonbuk Branch Institute, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Jeongeup, Republic of Korea.,College of Veterinary Medicine, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
| | - Youngho Ko
- siRNAgen therapeutics and Bioneer Corporation, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Sungil Yun
- siRNAgen therapeutics and Bioneer Corporation, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - In-Chul Lee
- Functional Biomaterial Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Jeongeup, Republic of Korea
| | - Han-Oh Park
- siRNAgen therapeutics and Bioneer Corporation, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong-Choon Kim
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
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Abo-Al-Ela HG. RNA Interference in Aquaculture: A Small Tool for Big Potential. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2021; 69:4343-4355. [PMID: 33835783 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.1c00268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
For decades, the tight regulatory functions of DNA and RNA have been the focus of extensive research with the goal of harnessing RNA molecules (e.g., microRNA and small interfering RNA) to control gene expression and to study biological functions. RNA interference (RNAi) has shown evidence of mediating gene expression, has been utilized to study functional genomics, and recently has potential in therapeutic agents. RNAi is a natural mechanism and a well-studied tool that can be used to silence specific genes. This method is also used in aquaculture as a research tool and to enhance immune responses. RNAi methods do have their limitations (e.g., immune triggering); efficient and easy-to-use RNAi methods for large-scale applications need further development. Despite these limitations, RNAi methods have been successfully used in aquaculture, in particular shrimp. This review discusses the uses of RNAi in aquaculture, such as immune- and production-related issues and the possible limitations that may hinder the application of RNAi in the aquaculture industry. Our challenge is to develop a highly potent in vivo RNAi delivery platform that could complete the desired action with minimal side effects and which can be applied on a large-scale with relatively little expense in the aquaculture industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haitham G Abo-Al-Ela
- Genetics and Biotechnology, Department of Aquaculture, Faculty of Fish Resources, Suez University, Suez 43518, Egypt
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Zou M, Du Y, Liu R, Zheng Z, Xu J. Nanocarrier-delivered small interfering RNA for chemoresistant ovarian cancer therapy. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS-RNA 2021; 12:e1648. [PMID: 33682310 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Ovarian cancer is the fifth leading cause of cancer-related death in women in the United States. Because success in early screening is limited, and most patients with advanced disease develop resistance to multiple treatment modalities, the overall prognosis of ovarian cancer is poor. Despite the revolutionary role of surgery and chemotherapy in curing ovarian cancer, recurrence remains a major challenge in treatment. Thus, improving our understanding of the pathogenesis of ovarian cancer is essential for developing more effective treatments. In this review, we analyze the underlying molecular mechanisms leading to chemotherapy resistance. We discuss the clinical benefits and potential challenges of using nanocarrier-delivered small interfering RNA to treat chemotherapy-resistant ovarian cancer. We aim to elicit collaborative studies on nanocarrier-delivered small interfering RNA to improve the long-term survival rate and quality of life of patients with ovarian cancer. This article is categorized under: RNA Methods > RNA Nanotechnology Regulatory RNAs/RNAi/Riboswitches > RNAi: Mechanisms of Action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingyuan Zou
- Medical School of Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yue Du
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Ruizhen Liu
- The First People's Hospital of Wu'an, Wu'an, Hebei, China
| | - Zeliang Zheng
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Jian Xu
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
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Khelghati N, Soleimanpour Mokhtarvand J, Mir M, Alemi F, Asemi Z, Sadeghpour A, Maleki M, Samadi Kafil H, Jadidi-Niaragh F, Majidinia M, Yousefi B. The importance of co-delivery of nanoparticle-siRNA and anticancer agents in cancer therapy. Chem Biol Drug Des 2021; 97:997-1015. [PMID: 33458952 DOI: 10.1111/cbdd.13824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 01/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
According to global statistics, cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide. Because of the heterogeneity of cancer, single-drug therapy has many limitations due to low efficacy. Therefore, combination therapy with two or more therapeutic agents is being arisen. One of the most important approaches in cancer therapy is the shot down of key genes involved in apoptotic processes and cell cycle. In this regard, siRNA is a good candidate, a highly attractive method to suppressing tumor growth and invasion. Combination therapy with siRNAs and chemotherapeutic agents can overcome the multidrug resistance and increase apoptosis. The efficient delivery of siRNA to the target cell/tissue/organ has been a challenge. To overcome these challenges, the presence of suitable delivery systems by using nanoparticles is interesting. In this review, we discuss the current challenges for successful RNA interference. Also, we suggested proper a strategy for delivering siRNA that can be useful in targeting therapy. Finally, the combination of a variety of anticancer drugs and siRNA through acceptable delivery systems and their effects on cell cycle and apoptosis will be evaluated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nafiseh Khelghati
- Molecular Medicine Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Mostafa Mir
- Molecular Medicine Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Forough Alemi
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Science, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Zatollah Asemi
- Research Center for Biochemistry and Nutrition in Metabolic Diseases, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Alireza Sadeghpour
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, School of Medicine and Shohada Educational Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Masomeh Maleki
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Science, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hossein Samadi Kafil
- Drug Applied Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Maryam Majidinia
- Solid Tumor Research Center, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Bahman Yousefi
- Molecular Medicine Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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Allen D, Rosenberg M, Hendel A. Using Synthetically Engineered Guide RNAs to Enhance CRISPR Genome Editing Systems in Mammalian Cells. Front Genome Ed 2021; 2:617910. [PMID: 34713240 PMCID: PMC8525374 DOI: 10.3389/fgeed.2020.617910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
CRISPR-Cas9 is quickly revolutionizing the way we approach gene therapy. CRISPR-Cas9 is a complexed, two-component system using a short guide RNA (gRNA) sequence to direct the Cas9 endonuclease to the target site. Modifying the gRNA independent of the Cas9 protein confers ease and flexibility to improve the CRISPR-Cas9 system as a genome-editing tool. gRNAs have been engineered to improve the CRISPR system's overall stability, specificity, safety, and versatility. gRNAs have been modified to increase their stability to guard against nuclease degradation, thereby enhancing their efficiency. Additionally, guide specificity has been improved by limiting off-target editing. Synthetic gRNA has been shown to ameliorate inflammatory signaling caused by the CRISPR system, thereby limiting immunogenicity and toxicity in edited mammalian cells. Furthermore, through conjugation with exogenous donor DNA, engineered gRNAs have been shown to improve homology-directed repair (HDR) efficiency by ensuring donor proximity to the edited site. Lastly, synthetic gRNAs attached to fluorescent labels have been developed to enable highly specific nuclear staining and imaging, enabling mechanistic studies of chromosomal dynamics and genomic mapping. Continued work on chemical modification and optimization of synthetic gRNAs will undoubtedly lead to clinical and therapeutic benefits and, ultimately, routinely performed CRISPR-based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ayal Hendel
- Institute of Nanotechnology and Advanced Materials, The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan, Israel
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Nam GH, Choi Y, Kim GB, Kim S, Kim SA, Kim IS. Emerging Prospects of Exosomes for Cancer Treatment: From Conventional Therapy to Immunotherapy. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2020; 32:e2002440. [PMID: 33015883 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202002440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 152] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2020] [Revised: 05/29/2020] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Exosomes are a class of extracellular vesicles of around 100 nm in diameter that are secreted by most cells and contain various bioactive molecules reflecting their cellular origin and mediate intercellular communication. Studies of these exosomal features in tumor pathogenesis have led to the development of therapeutic and diagnostic approaches using exosomes for cancer therapy. Exosomes have many advantages for conveying therapeutic agents such as small interfering RNAs, microRNAs, membrane-associated proteins, and chemotherapeutic compounds; thus, they are considered a prime candidate as a delivery tool for cancer treatment. Since exosomes also provide an optimal microenvironment for the effective function of immunomodulatory factors, exosomes harboring bioactive molecules have been bioengineered as cancer immunotherapies that can effectively activate each stage of the cancer immunity cycle to successfully elicit cancer-specific immunity. This review discusses the advantages of exosomes for treating cancer and the challenges that must be overcome for their successful clinical development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gi-Hoon Nam
- Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoonjeong Choi
- Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
- KU-KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, 145 Anam-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Gi Beom Kim
- Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
- KU-KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, 145 Anam-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Seohyun Kim
- Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
- KU-KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, 145 Anam-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong A Kim
- Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
- KU-KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, 145 Anam-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - In-San Kim
- Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
- KU-KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, 145 Anam-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
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