1
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Kim H, Kim D, Moon S, Lee JB. Efficient circular RNA synthesis through Gap-DNA splint-mediated ligation. NANOSCALE 2024; 16:15529-15532. [PMID: 39102212 DOI: 10.1039/d4nr01770f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/06/2024]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic heightened interest in circular RNA (C-RNA) for RNA therapeutics, offering advantages over linear mRNAs. Circular mRNA facilitates uncapped molecule development, and C-RNAs ensure stability in RNA interference therapeutics. The synthesis method, RNA ligation, is employed in C-RNA-based therapeutics. Stable DNA-RNA hybrid constructs enable efficient RNA ligase-based circularization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyunji Kim
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Seoul, 163 Seoulsiripdaero, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02504, Republic of Korea.
| | - Dajeong Kim
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Seoul, 163 Seoulsiripdaero, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02504, Republic of Korea.
| | - Sunghyun Moon
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Seoul, 163 Seoulsiripdaero, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02504, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jong Bum Lee
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Seoul, 163 Seoulsiripdaero, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02504, Republic of Korea.
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2
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Su CI, Chuang ZS, Shie CT, Wang HI, Kao YT, Yu CY. A cis-acting ligase ribozyme generates circular RNA in vitro for ectopic protein functioning. Nat Commun 2024; 15:6607. [PMID: 39098891 PMCID: PMC11298514 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-51044-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Delivering synthetic protein-coding RNA bypassing the DNA stage for ectopic protein functioning is a novel therapeutic strategy. Joining the linear RNA head-to-tail covalently could be a state-of-the-art strategy for functioning longer. Here we enroll a cis-acting ligase ribozyme (RzL) to generate circular RNA (circRNA) in vitro for ectopic protein expression. The RNA circularization is confirmed by masking the 5' phosphate group, resisting exonuclease RNase R digestion, failing for further tailing, and sequencing the RT-PCR products of the joined region. Interestingly, one internal ribosome entry site (IRES) renders circRNA translation competent, but two IRES in cis, not trans, hamper the translation. The circRNA with highly potent in translation is conferred for antiviral functioning. Accompanying specific guided RNA, a circRNA expressing ribonuclease Cas13 shows excellent potential against the corresponding RNA virus, further extending circRNA functioning in its growing list of applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chan-I Su
- National Institute of Infectious Diseases and Vaccinology, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, 350, Taiwan
| | - Zih-Shiuan Chuang
- National Institute of Infectious Diseases and Vaccinology, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, 350, Taiwan
- National Infectious Diseases Bank, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, 350, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Ting Shie
- National Institute of Infectious Diseases and Vaccinology, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, 350, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-I Wang
- National Institute of Infectious Diseases and Vaccinology, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, 350, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Ting Kao
- National Institute of Infectious Diseases and Vaccinology, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, 350, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Yi Yu
- National Institute of Infectious Diseases and Vaccinology, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, 350, Taiwan.
- National Infectious Diseases Bank, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, 350, Taiwan.
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 701, Taiwan.
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3
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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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4
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Choi SW, Nam JW. Optimal design of synthetic circular RNAs. Exp Mol Med 2024; 56:1281-1292. [PMID: 38871815 PMCID: PMC11263348 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-024-01251-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Circular RNAs are an unusual class of single-stranded RNAs whose ends are covalently linked via back-splicing. Due to their versatility, the need to express circular RNAs in vivo and in vitro has increased. Efforts have been made to efficiently and precisely synthesize circular RNAs. However, a review on the optimization of the processes of circular RNA design, synthesis, and delivery is lacking. Our review highlights the multifaceted aspects considered when producing optimal circular RNAs and summarizes the available options for each step of exogenous circular RNA design and synthesis, including circularization strategies. Additionally, this review describes several potential applications of circular RNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seo-Won Choi
- Department of Life Science, College of Natural Sciences, Hanyang University, Seoul, 04763, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin-Wu Nam
- Department of Life Science, College of Natural Sciences, Hanyang University, Seoul, 04763, Republic of Korea.
- Bio-BigData Center, Hanyang Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hanyang University, Seoul, 04763, Republic of Korea.
- Research Institute for Convergence of Basic Sciences, Hanyang University, Seoul, 04763, Republic of Korea.
- Hanyang Institute of Advanced BioConvergence, Hanyang University, Seoul, 04763, Republic of Korea.
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5
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Shi Y, Shen F, Chen X, Sun M, Zhang P. Current understanding of circular RNAs in preeclampsia. Hypertens Res 2024; 47:1607-1619. [PMID: 38605141 DOI: 10.1038/s41440-024-01675-x] [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: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
Preeclampsia (PE) is a multiple organ and system disease that seriously threatens the safety of the mother and infant during pregnancy, and has a profound impact on the morbidity and mortality of the mother and new babies. Presently, there are no remedies for cure of PE as to the mechanisms of PE are still unclear, and the only way to eliminate the symptoms is to deliver the placenta. Thus, new therapeutic targets for PE are urgently needed. Approximately 95% of human transcripts are thought to be non-coding RNAs, and the roles of them are to be increasingly recognized of great importance in various biological processes. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a class of non-coding RNAs, with no 5' caps and 3' polyadenylated tails, commonly produced by back-splicing of exons. The structure of circRNAs makes them more stable than their counterparts. Increasing evidence shows that circRNAs are involved in the pathogenesis of PE, but the biogenesis, functions, and mechanisms of circRNAs in PE are poorly understood. In the present review, we mainly summarize the biogenesis, functions, and possible mechanisms of circRNAs in the development and progression of PE, as well as opportunities and challenges in the treatment and prevention of PE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yajun Shi
- Institute for Fetology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Fangrong Shen
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Xionghui Chen
- Department of Emergency Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China.
- Institute of Trauma Medicine, Soochow University, Suzhou, China.
- Jiangsu Provincial Medical Innovation Center of Trauma Medicine, Suzhou, China.
| | - Miao Sun
- Institute for Fetology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China.
| | - Pengjie Zhang
- Institute for Fetology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China.
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6
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Ares M, Igel H, Katzman S, Donohue JP. Intron lariat spliceosomes convert lariats to true circles: implications for intron transposition. Genes Dev 2024; 38:322-335. [PMID: 38724209 PMCID: PMC11146597 DOI: 10.1101/gad.351764.124] [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: 03/30/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
Rare, full-length circular intron RNAs distinct from lariats have been reported in several species, but their biogenesis is not understood. We envisioned and tested a hypothesis for their formation using Saccharomyces cerevisiae, documenting full-length and novel processed circular RNAs from multiple introns. Evidence implicates a previously undescribed catalytic activity of the intron lariat spliceosome (ILS) in which the 3'-OH of the lariat tail (with optional trimming and adenylation by the nuclear 3' processing machinery) attacks the branch, joining the intron 3' end to the 5' splice site in a 3'-5' linked circle. Human U2 and U12 spliceosomes produce analogous full-length and processed circles. Postsplicing catalytic activity of the spliceosome may promote intron transposition during eukaryotic genome evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Ares
- Center for Molecular Biology of RNA, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California 95064, USA;
- Genomics Institute, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California 95064, USA
| | - Haller Igel
- Center for Molecular Biology of RNA, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California 95064, USA
| | - Sol Katzman
- Center for Molecular Biology of RNA, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California 95064, USA
- Genomics Institute, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California 95064, USA
| | - John P Donohue
- Center for Molecular Biology of RNA, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California 95064, USA
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7
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Sun X, Zhao X, Xu Y, Yan Y, Han L, Wei M, He M. Potential therapeutic strategy for cancer: Multi-dimensional cross-talk between circRNAs and parental genes. Cancer Lett 2024; 588:216794. [PMID: 38453043 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216794] [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: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
In many ways, circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been demonstrated to be crucial in the onset and advancement of cancer throughout the last ten years and have become a new focus of intense research in the field of RNAs. Accumulating studies have demonstrated that circRNAs can regulate parental gene expression via a variety of biological pathways. Furthermore, research into the complex interactions between circRNAs and their parental genes will shed light on their biological roles and open up new avenues for circRNAs' potential clinical translational uses. However, to date, multi-dimensional cross-talk between circRNAs and parental genes have not been systematically elucidated. Particularly intriguing is circRNA's exploration of tumor targeting, and potential therapeutic uses based on the parental gene regulation perspective. Here, we discuss their biogenesis, take a fresh look at the molecular mechanisms through which circRNAs control the expression of their parental genes in cancer. We further highlight We further highlight the latest circRNA clinical translational applications, including prognostic diagnostic markers, cancer vaccines, gDNA, and so on. Demonstrating the potential benefits and future applications of circRNA therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyu Sun
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China; Liaoning Key Laboratory of Molecular Targeted Anti-Tumor Drug Development and Evaluation, Liaoning Cancer Immune Peptide Drug Engineering Technology Research Center, Shenyang, China.
| | - Xinyi Zhao
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China; Liaoning Key Laboratory of Molecular Targeted Anti-Tumor Drug Development and Evaluation, Liaoning Cancer Immune Peptide Drug Engineering Technology Research Center, Shenyang, China.
| | - Yan Xu
- Department of Urology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China.
| | - Yuanyuan Yan
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China; Liaoning Key Laboratory of Molecular Targeted Anti-Tumor Drug Development and Evaluation, Liaoning Cancer Immune Peptide Drug Engineering Technology Research Center, Shenyang, China.
| | - Li Han
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China; Liaoning Key Laboratory of Molecular Targeted Anti-Tumor Drug Development and Evaluation, Liaoning Cancer Immune Peptide Drug Engineering Technology Research Center, Shenyang, China.
| | - Minjie Wei
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China; Liaoning Key Laboratory of Molecular Targeted Anti-Tumor Drug Development and Evaluation, Liaoning Cancer Immune Peptide Drug Engineering Technology Research Center, Shenyang, China; Liaoning Medical Diagnosis and Treatment Center, Liaoning Province, China.
| | - Miao He
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China; Liaoning Key Laboratory of Molecular Targeted Anti-Tumor Drug Development and Evaluation, Liaoning Cancer Immune Peptide Drug Engineering Technology Research Center, Shenyang, China.
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8
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Guo SK, Liu CX, Xu YF, Wang X, Nan F, Huang Y, Li S, Nan S, Li L, Kon E, Li C, Wei MY, Su R, Wei J, Peng S, Ad-El N, Liu J, Peer D, Chen T, Yang L, Chen LL. Therapeutic application of circular RNA aptamers in a mouse model of psoriasis. Nat Biotechnol 2024:10.1038/s41587-024-02204-4. [PMID: 38653797 DOI: 10.1038/s41587-024-02204-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
Efforts to advance RNA aptamers as a new therapeutic modality have been limited by their susceptibility to degradation and immunogenicity. In a previous study, we demonstrated synthesized short double-stranded region-containing circular RNAs (ds-cRNAs) with minimal immunogenicity targeted to dsRNA-activated protein kinase R (PKR). Here we test the therapeutic potential of ds-cRNAs in a mouse model of imiquimod-induced psoriasis. We find that genetic supplementation of ds-cRNAs leads to inhibition of PKR, resulting in alleviation of downstream interferon-α and dsRNA signals and attenuation of psoriasis phenotypes. Delivery of ds-cRNAs by lipid nanoparticles to the spleen attenuates PKR activity in examined splenocytes, resulting in reduced epidermal thickness. These findings suggest that ds-cRNAs represent a promising approach to mitigate excessive PKR activation for therapeutic purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Si-Kun Guo
- Key Laboratory of RNA Innovation, Science and Engineering, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Chu-Xiao Liu
- Key Laboratory of RNA Innovation, Science and Engineering, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi-Feng Xu
- Key Laboratory of RNA Innovation, Science and Engineering, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiao Wang
- Key Laboratory of RNA Innovation, Science and Engineering, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Fang Nan
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Children's Hospital of Fudan University and Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, International Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Ministry of Science and Technology, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Youkui Huang
- Key Laboratory of RNA Innovation, Science and Engineering, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Siqi Li
- Key Laboratory of RNA Innovation, Science and Engineering, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Shan Nan
- Key Laboratory of RNA Innovation, Science and Engineering, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Ling Li
- Key Laboratory of RNA Innovation, Science and Engineering, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Edo Kon
- Laboratory of Precision Nanomedicine, Shmunis School of Biomedicine and Cancer Research, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Department of Materials Sciences and Engineering, Iby and Aladar Fleischman Faculty of Engineering, Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Cancer Biology Research Center, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Chen Li
- Key Laboratory of RNA Innovation, Science and Engineering, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Meng-Yuan Wei
- Key Laboratory of RNA Innovation, Science and Engineering, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Rina Su
- Department of Dermatology, Beijing Chao-yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jia Wei
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Children's Hospital of Fudan University and Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, International Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Ministry of Science and Technology, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shiguang Peng
- Department of Dermatology, Beijing Chao-yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Nitay Ad-El
- Laboratory of Precision Nanomedicine, Shmunis School of Biomedicine and Cancer Research, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Department of Materials Sciences and Engineering, Iby and Aladar Fleischman Faculty of Engineering, Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Cancer Biology Research Center, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Jiaquan Liu
- Key Laboratory of RNA Innovation, Science and Engineering, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Dan Peer
- Laboratory of Precision Nanomedicine, Shmunis School of Biomedicine and Cancer Research, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Department of Materials Sciences and Engineering, Iby and Aladar Fleischman Faculty of Engineering, Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Cancer Biology Research Center, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Ting Chen
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, Tsinghua Institute of Multidisciplinary Biomedical Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Li Yang
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Children's Hospital of Fudan University and Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, International Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Ministry of Science and Technology, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ling-Ling Chen
- Key Laboratory of RNA Innovation, Science and Engineering, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China.
- New Cornerstone Science Laboratory, Shenzhen, China.
- Key Laboratory of Systems Health Science of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Science, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China.
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9
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He W, Zhang X, Zou Y, Li J, Chang L, He YC, Jin Q, Ye J. Effective synthesis of circRNA via a thermostable T7 RNA polymerase variant as the catalyst. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2024; 12:1356354. [PMID: 38655387 PMCID: PMC11035883 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2024.1356354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are endogenous noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) with transcriptional lengths ranging from hundreds to thousands. circRNAs have attracted attention owing to their stable structure and ability to treat complicated diseases. Our objective was to create a one-step reaction for circRNA synthesis using wild-type T7 RNA polymerase as the catalyst. However, T7 RNA polymerase is thermally unstable, and we streamlined circRNA synthesis via consensus and folding free energy calculations for hotspot selection. Because of the thermal instability, the permuted intron and exon (PIE) method for circRNA synthesis is conducted via tandem catalysis with a transcription reaction at a low temperature and linear RNA precursor cyclization at a high temperature. Methods To streamline the process, a multisite mutant T7 RNA polymerase (S430P, N433T, S633P, F849I, F880Y, and G788A) with significantly improved thermostability was constructed, and G788A was used. Results The resulting mutant exhibited stable activity at 45°C for over an hour, enabling the implementation of a one-pot transcription and cyclization reaction. The simplified circRNA production process demonstrated an efficiency comparable to that of the conventional two-step reaction, with a cyclization rate exceeding 95% and reduced production of immunostimulatory dsRNA byproducts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei He
- College of Biology and the Environment, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, China
- Vazyme Biotech Co., Ltd, Nanjing, China
| | | | | | - Ji Li
- Vazyme Biotech Co., Ltd, Nanjing, China
| | - Le Chang
- Vazyme Biotech Co., Ltd, Nanjing, China
| | - Yu-Cai He
- School of Pharmacy, Changzhou University, Changzhou, China
| | | | - Jianren Ye
- College of Biology and the Environment, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, China
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10
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Ares M, Igel H, Katzman S, Donohue JP. Intron-lariat spliceosomes convert lariats to true circles: implications for intron transposition. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.03.26.586863. [PMID: 38585890 PMCID: PMC10996645 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.26.586863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Rare, full length circular intron RNAs distinct from lariats have been reported in several species, but their biogenesis is not understood. We envision and test a hypothesis for their formation using Saccharomyces cerevisiae, documenting full length and novel processed circular RNAs from multiple introns. Evidence implicates a previously undescribed catalytic activity of the intron-lariat spliceosome (ILS) in which the 3'-OH of the lariat tail (with optional trimming and adenylation by the nuclear 3' processing machinery) attacks the branch, joining the intron 3' end to the 5' splice site in a 3'-5' linked circle. Human U2 and U12 spliceosomes produce analogous full length and processed circles. Post-splicing catalytic activity of the spliceosome may promote intron transposition during eukaryotic genome evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Ares
- Center for Molecular Biology of RNA, University of California, Santa Cruz
- Genomics Institute, Santa Cruz, CA 95064 USA
| | - Haller Igel
- Center for Molecular Biology of RNA, University of California, Santa Cruz
| | - Sol Katzman
- Center for Molecular Biology of RNA, University of California, Santa Cruz
- Genomics Institute, Santa Cruz, CA 95064 USA
| | - John P. Donohue
- Center for Molecular Biology of RNA, University of California, Santa Cruz
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11
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Unti MJ, Jaffrey SR. Highly efficient cellular expression of circular mRNA enables prolonged protein expression. Cell Chem Biol 2024; 31:163-176.e5. [PMID: 37883972 PMCID: PMC10841545 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2023.09.015] [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: 04/30/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
A major problem with mRNA therapeutics is that mRNA is usually degraded within a few hours after entering the cytosol. New approaches for in vitro synthesis of circular mRNA have allowed increased levels and duration of protein synthesis from mRNA therapeutics due to the long half-life of circular mRNA. However, it remains difficult to genetically encode circular mRNAs in mammalian cells. Here, we describe the adaptation of the Tornado (Twister-optimized RNA for durable overexpression) system to achieve in-cell synthesis of circular mRNAs. We screen different promoters and internal ribosomal entry sites (IRESs) and identify combinations that result in high levels of circular mRNA and protein expression. We show that these circular mRNAs can be packaged into virus-like particles (VLPs), thus enabling prolonged protein expression. Overall, these data describe a platform for synthesis of circular mRNAs and how these circular mRNAs can improve VLP therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mildred J Unti
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Samie R Jaffrey
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY 10065, USA.
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12
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Shen L, Yang J, Zuo C, Xu J, Ma L, He Q, Zhou X, Ding X, Wei L, Jiang S, Ma L, Zhang B, Yang Y, Dong B, Wan L, Ding X, Zhu M, Sun Z, Wang P, Song X, Zhang Y. Circular mRNA-based TCR-T offers a safe and effective therapeutic strategy for treatment of cytomegalovirus infection. Mol Ther 2024; 32:168-184. [PMID: 37974400 PMCID: PMC10787193 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2023.11.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Circular mRNA (cmRNA) is particular useful due to its high resistance to degradation by exonucleases, resulting in greater stability and protein expression compared to linear mRNA. T cell receptor (TCR)-engineered T cells (TCR-T) represent a promising means of treating viral infections and cancer. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of cmRNA in antigen-specific-TCR discovery and TCR-T therapy. Using human cytomegalovirus (CMV) pp65 antigen as a model, we found that the expansion of pp65-responsive T cells was induced more effectively by monocyte-derived dendritic cells transfected with pp65-encoding cmRNA compared with linear mRNA. Subsequently, we developed cmRNA-transduced pp65-TCR-T (cm-pp65-TCR-T) that specifically targets the CMV-pp65 epitope. Our results showed that pp65-TCR could be expressed on primary T cells for more than 7 days. Moreover, both in vitro killing and in vivo CDX models demonstrated that cm-pp65-TCR-T cells specifically and persistently kill pp65-and HLA-expressing tumor cells, significantly prolonging the survival of mice. Collectively, our results demonstrated that cmRNA can be used as a more effective technical approach for antigen-specific TCR isolation and identification, and cm-pp65-TCR-T may provide a safe, non-viral, non-integrated therapeutic approach for controlling CMV infection, particularly in patients who have undergone allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lianghua Shen
- Department of Hematology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201620, China; Engineering Technology Research Center of Cell Therapy and Clinical Translation, Science and Technology Committee of Shanghai Municipality, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Jiali Yang
- Suzhou CureMed Biopharma Technology Co., Ltd, Suzhou 215125, China
| | - Chijian Zuo
- Suzhou CureMed Biopharma Technology Co., Ltd, Suzhou 215125, China.
| | - Jian Xu
- Department of Hematology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201620, China; Engineering Technology Research Center of Cell Therapy and Clinical Translation, Science and Technology Committee of Shanghai Municipality, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Ling Ma
- Department of Hematology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201620, China; Engineering Technology Research Center of Cell Therapy and Clinical Translation, Science and Technology Committee of Shanghai Municipality, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Qiaomei He
- Department of Hematology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Xiao Zhou
- Department of Hematology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Xiaodan Ding
- Department of Hematology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Lixiang Wei
- Suzhou CureMed Biopharma Technology Co., Ltd, Suzhou 215125, China
| | - Suqin Jiang
- Suzhou CureMed Biopharma Technology Co., Ltd, Suzhou 215125, China
| | - Luanluan Ma
- Suzhou CureMed Biopharma Technology Co., Ltd, Suzhou 215125, China
| | - Benjia Zhang
- Suzhou CureMed Biopharma Technology Co., Ltd, Suzhou 215125, China
| | - Yuqin Yang
- Department of Hematology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Baoxia Dong
- Department of Hematology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Liping Wan
- Department of Hematology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Xueying Ding
- Engineering Technology Research Center of Cell Therapy and Clinical Translation, Science and Technology Committee of Shanghai Municipality, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Ming Zhu
- KuaiXu Biotechnologies Co., Ltd, Shanghai 201315, China
| | - Zhenhua Sun
- Suzhou CureMed Biopharma Technology Co., Ltd, Suzhou 215125, China.
| | - Pengran Wang
- Department of Hematology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201620, China; Engineering Technology Research Center of Cell Therapy and Clinical Translation, Science and Technology Committee of Shanghai Municipality, Shanghai 200080, China.
| | - Xianmin Song
- Department of Hematology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201620, China; Engineering Technology Research Center of Cell Therapy and Clinical Translation, Science and Technology Committee of Shanghai Municipality, Shanghai 200080, China.
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Hematology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201620, China; Engineering Technology Research Center of Cell Therapy and Clinical Translation, Science and Technology Committee of Shanghai Municipality, Shanghai 200080, China.
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13
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Hansen CE, Springstubbe D, Müller S, Petkovic S. Directed Circularization of a Short RNA. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2765:209-226. [PMID: 38381342 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3678-7_12] [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: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
Basic research and functional analyses of circular RNA (circRNA) have been limited by challenges in circRNA formation of desired length and sequence in adequate yields. Nowadays, circular RNA can be obtained using enzymatic, "ribozymatic," or modulated splice events. However, there are few records for the directed circularization of RNA. Here, we present a proof of principle for an affordable and efficient RNA-based system for the controlled synthesis of circRNA with a physiological 3',5'-phosphodiester conjunction. The engineered hairpin ribozyme variant circular ribozyme 3 (CRZ-3) performs self-cleavage poorly. We designed an activator-polyamine complex to complete cleavage as a prerequisite for subsequent circularization. The developed protocol allows synthesizing circRNA without external enzymatic assistance and adds a controllable way of circularization to the existing methods.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sabine Müller
- University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Lübeck, Germany
| | - Sonja Petkovic
- University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Lübeck, Germany.
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14
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Frei J, Jarzebska NT, Mellett M, Kündig TM, Pascolo S, Reichmuth AM. Design and Synthesis of Circular RNA Expression Vectors. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2786:205-215. [PMID: 38814396 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3770-8_9] [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: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
The recent success of the synthetic mRNA-based anti-COVID-19 vaccines has demonstrated the broad potential of the mRNA platform for applications in medicine, thanks to the combined efforts of a small community that has vastly improved key determinants such as design and formulation of synthetic mRNA during the past three decades. However, the cost of production and sensitivity to enzymatic degradation are still limiting the broader application of synthetic mRNA for therapeutic applications. The increased interest in mRNA-based technologies has spurred a renaissance for circular RNA (circRNA), as the lack of free 5' and 3' ends substantially increases resistance against enzymatic degradation in biological systems and does not require expensive cap analogs, as translation is controlled by an Internal Ribosome Entry Site (IRES) sequence. Thus, it can be expected that circRNA will play an important role for future mRNA therapeutics. Here we provide a detailed guide to the production of synthetic circRNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Frei
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Zurich (USZ), University of Zurich (UZH), Zurich, Switzerland
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Natalia T Jarzebska
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Zurich (USZ), University of Zurich (UZH), Zurich, Switzerland
- Faculty of Science, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Mark Mellett
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Zurich (USZ), University of Zurich (UZH), Zurich, Switzerland
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Thomas M Kündig
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Zurich (USZ), University of Zurich (UZH), Zurich, Switzerland
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Steve Pascolo
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Zurich (USZ), University of Zurich (UZH), Zurich, Switzerland.
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Andreas M Reichmuth
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Zurich (USZ), University of Zurich (UZH), Zurich, Switzerland.
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
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15
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Flugel CL, Abou-el-Enein M. Bringing base editing to the clinic: The next generation of genome editors. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2023; 31:101138. [PMID: 38027069 PMCID: PMC10654602 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2023.101138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Christian L. Flugel
- Division of Medical Oncology, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- BIH Center for Regenerative Therapies (BCRT), Berlin Institute of Health (BIH) at Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Mohamed Abou-el-Enein
- Division of Medical Oncology, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- USC/CHLA Cell Therapy Program, University of Southern California, and Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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16
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Woodruff R, Parekh F, Lamb K, Mekkaoui L, Allen C, Smetanova K, Huang J, Williams A, Toledo GS, Lilova K, Roddie C, Sillibourne J, Pule M. Large-scale manufacturing of base-edited chimeric antigen receptor T cells. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2023; 31:101123. [PMID: 37886606 PMCID: PMC10597784 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2023.101123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
Base editing is a revolutionary gene-editing technique enabling the introduction of point mutations into the genome without generating detrimental DNA double-stranded breaks. Base-editing enzymes are commonly delivered in the form of modified linear messenger RNA (mRNA) that is costly to produce. Here, we address this problem by developing a simple protocol for manufacturing base-edited cells using circular RNA (circRNA), which is less expensive to synthesize. Compared with linear mRNA, higher editing efficiencies were achieved with circRNA, enabling an 8-fold reduction in the amount of RNA required. We used this protocol to manufacture a clinical dose (1 × 108 cells) of base-edited chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells lacking expression of the inhibitory receptor, PD-1. Editing efficiencies of up to 86% were obtained using 0.25 μg circRNA/1 × 106 cells. Increased editing efficiencies with circRNA were attributed to more efficient translation. These results suggest that circRNA, which is less expensive to produce than linear mRNA, is a viable option for reducing the cost of manufacturing base-edited cells at scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosie Woodruff
- Autolus Therapeutics, The Mediaworks, 191 Wood Lane, W12 7FP London, UK
| | - Farhaan Parekh
- Autolus Therapeutics, The Mediaworks, 191 Wood Lane, W12 7FP London, UK
| | - Katarina Lamb
- Autolus Therapeutics, The Mediaworks, 191 Wood Lane, W12 7FP London, UK
| | - Leila Mekkaoui
- Autolus Therapeutics, The Mediaworks, 191 Wood Lane, W12 7FP London, UK
| | - Christopher Allen
- Autolus Therapeutics, The Mediaworks, 191 Wood Lane, W12 7FP London, UK
| | | | - Jasmine Huang
- Imperial College London, South Kensington Campus, SW7 2AZ London, UK
| | - Alex Williams
- Autolus Therapeutics, The Mediaworks, 191 Wood Lane, W12 7FP London, UK
| | | | - Koki Lilova
- Autolus Therapeutics, The Mediaworks, 191 Wood Lane, W12 7FP London, UK
| | - Claire Roddie
- Deparment of Haematology, Cancer Institute, 72 Huntley Street, WC1E 6BT London, UK
| | - James Sillibourne
- Autolus Therapeutics, The Mediaworks, 191 Wood Lane, W12 7FP London, UK
| | - Martin Pule
- Autolus Therapeutics, The Mediaworks, 191 Wood Lane, W12 7FP London, UK
- Deparment of Haematology, Cancer Institute, 72 Huntley Street, WC1E 6BT London, UK
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17
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Xie J, Ye F, Deng X, Tang Y, Liang JY, Huang X, Sun Y, Tang H, Lei J, Zheng S, Zou Y. Circular RNA: A promising new star of vaccine. J Transl Int Med 2023; 11:372-381. [PMID: 38130633 PMCID: PMC10732498 DOI: 10.2478/jtim-2023-0122] [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] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a class of single-stranded RNAs with covalently closed structures. Owing to their not having 3' or 5' ends, circRNAs are highly durable and insusceptible to exonuclease-mediated degradation. Moreover, some circRNAs with certain structures are translatable, making them novel vaccines. Vaccines are efficient tools for immunotherapy, such as for the prevention of infectious diseases and cancer treatment. The immune system is activated during immunotherapy to fight against abnormal allies or invaders. CircRNA vaccines represent a potential new avenue in the vaccine era. Recently, several circRNA vaccines have been synthesized and tested in vitro and in vivo. Our review briefly introduces the current understanding of the biology and function of translatable circRNAs, molecular biology, synthetic methods, delivery of circRNA, and current circRNA vaccines. We also discussed the challenges and future directions in the field by summarizing the developments in circRNA vaccines in the past few years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jindong Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou510060, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Fengxi Ye
- Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou510060, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Xinpei Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou510060, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Yuhui Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou510060, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Jie-Ying Liang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Department of Medical Oncology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou510000, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Xufeng Huang
- Department of Data Science and Visualization, Faculty of Informatics, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Yuying Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou510060, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Hailin Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou510060, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Jinsong Lei
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou510060, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Shaoquan Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou510060, Guangdong Province, China
- Breast Disease Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou510000, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Yutian Zou
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou510060, Guangdong Province, China
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18
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Zhu F, Ma S, Wen H, Rao M, Zhang P, Peng W, Cui Y, Yang H, Tan C, Chen J, Pan P. Development of a novel circular mRNA vaccine of six protein combinations against Staphylococcus aureus. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2023; 41:10525-10545. [PMID: 36533395 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2022.2154846] [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: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Staphylococcus aureus is an extraordinarily versatile pathogen, which is currently the most common cause of nosocomial and community infections. Considering that increased antibiotic resistance may hasten the spread of S. aureus, developing an effective vaccine can possibly aid in its control. The RNA vaccine coding immunodominance epitopes from bacteria provide a potential method to induce T and B cell immune responses by translating them into cells. Furthermore, using bioinformatics to create circular RNA vaccines can ensure that the translation of the vaccine is potent and durable. In this study, 7 cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) epitopes, 4 helper T lymphocyte (HTL) epitopes, and 15 B cell epitopes from 6 proteins that are closely associated with the S. aureus virulence and invasion and critical to natural immune responses were mapped. To verify their interactions, all epitopes were docked with the corresponding MHC alleles. The final vaccine was composed of 26 epitopes and the adjuvant β-defencin, and a disulfide bond was also introduced to improve its stability. After the prediction of structure and characteristics, the developed vaccine was docked with TLR2 and TLR4, which induce immunological responses in S. aureus infection. According to the molecular dynamic simulation, the vaccine might interact strongly with TLRs. Meanwhile, it performed well in immunological simulation and population coverage prediction. Finally, the vaccine was converted into a circular RNA using a series of helper sequences to aid in vaccine circulation translation. Hopefully, this proposed structure will be proven to serve a viable vaccine against S. aureus.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Zhu
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, National Key Clinical Specialty, Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Center of Respiratory Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases in Hunan Province, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Hunan Engineering Research Center for Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment of Respiratory Disease, Changsha, Hunan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, P.R. China
| | - Shiyang Ma
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, National Key Clinical Specialty, Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Center of Respiratory Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases in Hunan Province, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Hunan Engineering Research Center for Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment of Respiratory Disease, Changsha, Hunan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, P.R. China
| | - Haicheng Wen
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, P.R. China
| | - Mingjun Rao
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, National Key Clinical Specialty, Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Center of Respiratory Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases in Hunan Province, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Hunan Engineering Research Center for Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment of Respiratory Disease, Changsha, Hunan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, P.R. China
| | - Peipei Zhang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, National Key Clinical Specialty, Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Center of Respiratory Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases in Hunan Province, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Hunan Engineering Research Center for Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment of Respiratory Disease, Changsha, Hunan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, P.R. China
| | - Wenzhong Peng
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, National Key Clinical Specialty, Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Center of Respiratory Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases in Hunan Province, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Hunan Engineering Research Center for Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment of Respiratory Disease, Changsha, Hunan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, P.R. China
| | - Yanhui Cui
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, National Key Clinical Specialty, Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Center of Respiratory Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases in Hunan Province, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Hunan Engineering Research Center for Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment of Respiratory Disease, Changsha, Hunan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, P.R. China
| | - Hang Yang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, National Key Clinical Specialty, Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Center of Respiratory Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases in Hunan Province, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Hunan Engineering Research Center for Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment of Respiratory Disease, Changsha, Hunan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, P.R. China
| | - Caixia Tan
- Department of Infection Control Center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Jie Chen
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, National Key Clinical Specialty, Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Center of Respiratory Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases in Hunan Province, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Hunan Engineering Research Center for Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment of Respiratory Disease, Changsha, Hunan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, P.R. China
| | - Pinhua Pan
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, National Key Clinical Specialty, Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Center of Respiratory Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases in Hunan Province, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Hunan Engineering Research Center for Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment of Respiratory Disease, Changsha, Hunan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, P.R. China
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19
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Sun M, Yang Y. Biological functions and applications of circRNAs-next generation of RNA-based therapy. J Mol Cell Biol 2023; 15:mjad031. [PMID: 37147015 PMCID: PMC10708935 DOI: 10.1093/jmcb/mjad031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2022] [Revised: 04/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Meiling Sun
- Research and Development Department, Shanghai CirCode Biomedicine Co. Ltd, Shanghai, China
| | - Yun Yang
- Research and Development Department, Shanghai CirCode Biomedicine Co. Ltd, Shanghai, China
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20
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Perenkov AD, Sergeeva AD, Vedunova MV, Krysko DV. In Vitro Transcribed RNA-Based Platform Vaccines: Past, Present, and Future. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:1600. [PMID: 37897003 PMCID: PMC10610676 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11101600] [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: 09/17/2023] [Revised: 10/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
mRNA was discovered in 1961, but it was not used as a vaccine until after three decades. Recently, the development of mRNA vaccine technology gained great impetus from the pursuit of vaccines against COVID-19. To improve the properties of RNA vaccines, and primarily their circulation time, self-amplifying mRNA and trans-amplifying mRNA were developed. A separate branch of mRNA technology is circular RNA vaccines, which were developed with the discovery of the possibility of translation on their protein matrix. Circular RNA has several advantages over mRNA vaccines and is considered a fairly promising platform, as is trans-amplifying mRNA. This review presents an overview of the mRNA platform and a critical discussion of the more modern self-amplifying mRNA, trans-amplifying mRNA, and circular RNA platforms created on its basis. Finally, the main features, advantages, and disadvantages of each of the presented mRNA platforms are discussed. This discussion will facilitate the decision-making process in selecting the most appropriate platform for creating RNA vaccines against cancer or viral diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexey D Perenkov
- Institute of Biology and Biomedicine, National Research Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, 603022 Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
| | - Alena D Sergeeva
- Institute of Biology and Biomedicine, National Research Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, 603022 Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
| | - Maria V Vedunova
- Institute of Biology and Biomedicine, National Research Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, 603022 Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
| | - Dmitri V Krysko
- Institute of Biology and Biomedicine, National Research Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, 603022 Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
- Cell Death Investigation and Therapy (CDIT) Laboratory, Anatomy and Embryology Unit, Department of Human Structure and Repair, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
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21
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Kim YS, Kim DH, An D, Lim Y, Seo YJ, Kim HK, Kang HY. The RNA ligation method using modified splint DNAs significantly improves the efficiency of circular RNA synthesis. Anim Cells Syst (Seoul) 2023; 27:208-218. [PMID: 37808549 PMCID: PMC10552601 DOI: 10.1080/19768354.2023.2265165] [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: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Circular RNA (circRNA) is a non-coding RNA with a covalently closed loop structure and usually more stable than messenger RNA (mRNA). However, coding sequences (CDSs) following an internal ribosome entry site (IRES) in circRNAs can be translated, and this property has been recently utilized to produce proteins as novel therapeutic tools. However, it is difficult to produce large proteins from circRNAs because of the low circularization efficiency of lengthy RNAs. In this study, we report that we successfully synthesized circRNAs with the splint DNA ligation method using RNA ligase 1 and the splint DNAs, which contain complementary sequences to both ends of precursor linear RNAs. This method results in more efficient circularization than the conventional enzymatic method that does not use the splint DNAs, easily generating circRNAs that express relatively large proteins, including IgG heavy and light chains. Longer splint DNA (42 nucleotide) is more effective in circularization. Also, the use of splint DNAs with an adenine analog, 2,6-diaminopurine (DAP), increase the circularization efficiency presumably by strengthening the interaction between the splint DNAs and the precursor RNAs. The splint DNA ligation method requires 5 times more splint DNA than the precursor RNA to efficiently produce circRNAs, but our modified splint DNA ligation method can produce circRNAs using the amount of splint DNA which is equal to that of the precursor RNA. Our modified splint DNA ligation method will help develop novel therapeutic tools using circRNAs, to treat various diseases and to develop human and veterinary vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoon-Seob Kim
- Drug Discovery Center, NuclixBio, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Do-Hyung Kim
- Drug Discovery Center, NuclixBio, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Daegi An
- Department of Life Science, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Younghyun Lim
- Department of Life Science, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Jin Seo
- Department of Life Science, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hak Kyun Kim
- Department of Life Science, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ho-Young Kang
- Drug Discovery Center, NuclixBio, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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22
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Dolgin E. Why rings of RNA could be the next blockbuster drug. Nature 2023; 622:22-24. [PMID: 37794271 DOI: 10.1038/d41586-023-03058-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
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23
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He TT, Xu YF, Li X, Wang X, Li JY, Ou-Yang D, Cheng HS, Li HY, Qin J, Huang Y, Wang HY. A linear and circular dual-conformation noncoding RNA involved in oxidative stress tolerance in Bacillus altitudinis. Nat Commun 2023; 14:5722. [PMID: 37714854 PMCID: PMC10504365 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-41491-4] [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: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Circular RNAs have been extensively studied in eukaryotes, but their presence and/or biological functionality in bacteria are unclear. Here, we show that a regulatory noncoding RNA (DucS) exists in both linear and circular conformation in Bacillus altitudinis. The linear forms promote B. altitudinis tolerance to H2O2 stress, partly through increased translation of a stress-responsive gene, htrA. The 3' end sequences of the linear forms are crucial for RNA circularization, and formation of circular forms can decrease the levels of the regulatory linear cognates. Bioinformatic analysis of available RNA-seq datasets from 30 bacterial species revealed multiple circular RNA candidates, distinct from DucS, for all the examined species. Experiments testing for the presence of selected circular RNA candidates in four species successfully validated 7 out of 9 candidates from B. altitudinis and 4 out of 5 candidates from Bacillus paralicheniformis; However, none of the candidates tested for Bacillus subtilis and Escherichia coli were detected. Our work identifies a dual-conformation regulatory RNA in B. altitutidinis, and indicates that circular RNAs exist in diverse bacteria. However, circularization of specific RNAs does not seem to be conserved across species, and the circularization mechanisms and biological functionality of the circular forms remain unclear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting-Ting He
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resource and Eco-Environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yun-Fan Xu
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resource and Eco-Environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Xiang Li
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resource and Eco-Environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Xia Wang
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resource and Eco-Environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Jie-Yu Li
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resource and Eco-Environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Dan Ou-Yang
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resource and Eco-Environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Han-Sen Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resource and Eco-Environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Hao-Yang Li
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resource and Eco-Environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Jia Qin
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resource and Eco-Environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yu Huang
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resource and Eco-Environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Hai-Yan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resource and Eco-Environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.
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24
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Niu D, Wu Y, Lian J. Circular RNA vaccine in disease prevention and treatment. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:341. [PMID: 37691066 PMCID: PMC10493228 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01561-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2023] [Revised: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 07/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
CircRNAs are a class of single-stranded RNAs with covalently linked head-to-tail topology. In the decades since its initial discovery, their biogenesis, regulation, and function have rapidly disclosed, permitting a better understanding and adoption of them as new tools for medical applications. With the development of biotechnology and molecular medicine, artificial circRNAs have been engineered as a novel class of vaccines for disease treatment and prevention. Unlike the linear mRNA vaccine which applications were limited by its instability, inefficiency, and innate immunogenicity, circRNA vaccine which incorporate internal ribosome entry sites (IRESs) and open reading frame (ORF) provides an improved approach to RNA-based vaccination with safety, stability, simplicity of manufacture, and scalability. However, circRNA vaccines are at an early stage, and their optimization, delivery and applications require further development and evaluation. In this review, we comprehensively describe circRNA vaccine, including their history and superiority. We also summarize and discuss the current methodological research for circRNA vaccine preparation, including their design, synthesis, and purification. Finally, we highlight the delivery options of circRNA vaccine and its potential applications in diseases treatment and prevention. Considering their unique high stability, low immunogenicity, protein/peptide-coding capacity and special closed-loop construction, circRNA vaccine, and circRNA-based therapeutic platforms may have superior application prospects in a broad range of diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dun Niu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Southwest Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), 400038, Chongqing, China
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), 400038, Chongqing, China
| | - Yaran Wu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Southwest Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), 400038, Chongqing, China
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), 400038, Chongqing, China
| | - Jiqin Lian
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Southwest Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), 400038, Chongqing, China.
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), 400038, Chongqing, China.
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25
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Lee KH, Song J, Kim S, Han SR, Lee SW. Real-time monitoring strategies for optimization of in vitro transcription and quality control of RNA. Front Mol Biosci 2023; 10:1229246. [PMID: 37771458 PMCID: PMC10523567 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2023.1229246] [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: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
RNA-based therapeutics and vaccines are opening up new avenues for modern medicine. To produce these useful RNA-based reagents, in vitro transcription (IVT) is an important reaction that primarily determines the yield and quality of the product. Therefore, IVT condition should be well optimized to achieve high yield and purity of transcribed RNAs. To this end, real-time monitoring of RNA production during IVT, which allows for fine tuning of the condition, would be required. Currently, light-up RNA aptamer and fluorescent dye pairs are considered as useful strategies to monitor IVT in real time. Fluorophore-labeled antisense probe-based methods can also be used for real-time IVT monitoring. In addition, a high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)-based method that can monitor IVT reagent consumption has been developed as a powerful tool to monitor IVT reaction in near real-time. This mini-review briefly introduces some strategies and examples for real-time IVT monitoring and discusses pros and cons of IVT monitoring methods.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jaehwi Song
- R&D Center, Rznomics Inc., Seongnam, Republic of Korea
| | | | | | - Seong-Wook Lee
- R&D Center, Rznomics Inc., Seongnam, Republic of Korea
- Department of Bioconvergence Engineering, Research Institute of Advanced Omics, Dankook University, Yongin, Republic of Korea
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26
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Wei HH, Zheng L, Wang Z. mRNA therapeutics: New vaccination and beyond. FUNDAMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 3:749-759. [PMID: 38933291 PMCID: PMC10017382 DOI: 10.1016/j.fmre.2023.02.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The idea of mRNA therapy had been conceived for decades before it came into reality during the Covid-19 pandemic. The mRNA vaccine emerges as a powerful and general tool against new viral infections, largely due to its versatility and rapid development. In addition to prophylactic vaccines, mRNA technology also offers great promise for new applications as a versatile drug modality. However, realizing the conceptual potential faces considerable challenges, such as minimal immune stimulation, high and long-term expression, and efficient delivery to target cells and tissues. Here we review the applications of mRNA-based therapeutics, with emphasis on the innovative design and future challenges/solutions. In addition, we also discuss the next generation of mRNA therapy, including circular mRNA and self-amplifying RNAs. We aim to provide a conceptual overview and outlook on mRNA therapeutics beyond prophylactic vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan-Huan Wei
- Bio-med Big Data Center, CAS Key Laboratory of Computational Biology, CAS Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, Shanghai 200032, China
| | | | - Zefeng Wang
- Bio-med Big Data Center, CAS Key Laboratory of Computational Biology, CAS Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, Shanghai 200032, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Beijing 100049, China
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27
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Zhou W, Jiang L, Liao S, Wu F, Yang G, Hou L, Liu L, Pan X, Jia W, Zhang Y. Vaccines' New Era-RNA Vaccine. Viruses 2023; 15:1760. [PMID: 37632102 PMCID: PMC10458896 DOI: 10.3390/v15081760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
RNA vaccines, including conventional messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines, circular RNA (circRNA) vaccines, and self-amplifying RNA (saRNA) vaccines, have ushered in a promising future and revolutionized vaccine development. The success of mRNA vaccines in combating the COVID-19 pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus that emerged in 2019 has highlighted the potential of RNA vaccines. These vaccines possess several advantages, such as high efficacy, adaptability, simplicity in antigen design, and the ability to induce both humoral and cellular immunity. They also offer rapid and cost-effective manufacturing, flexibility to target emerging or mutant pathogens and a potential approach for clearing immunotolerant microbes by targeting bacterial or parasitic survival mechanisms. The self-adjuvant effect of mRNA-lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulations or circular RNA further enhances the potential of RNA vaccines. However, some challenges need to be addressed. These include the technology's immaturity, high research expenses, limited duration of antibody response, mRNA instability, low efficiency of circRNA cyclization, and the production of double-stranded RNA as a side product. These factors hinder the widespread adoption and utilization of RNA vaccines, particularly in developing countries. This review provides a comprehensive overview of mRNA, circRNA, and saRNA vaccines for infectious diseases while also discussing their development, current applications, and challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenshuo Zhou
- CNBG-Virogin Biotech (Shanghai) Co., Ltd., Shanghai 201800, China; (W.Z.); (L.J.); (S.L.); (F.W.); (G.Y.); (L.H.); (L.L.); (X.P.); (W.J.)
| | - Linglei Jiang
- CNBG-Virogin Biotech (Shanghai) Co., Ltd., Shanghai 201800, China; (W.Z.); (L.J.); (S.L.); (F.W.); (G.Y.); (L.H.); (L.L.); (X.P.); (W.J.)
| | - Shimiao Liao
- CNBG-Virogin Biotech (Shanghai) Co., Ltd., Shanghai 201800, China; (W.Z.); (L.J.); (S.L.); (F.W.); (G.Y.); (L.H.); (L.L.); (X.P.); (W.J.)
| | - Feifei Wu
- CNBG-Virogin Biotech (Shanghai) Co., Ltd., Shanghai 201800, China; (W.Z.); (L.J.); (S.L.); (F.W.); (G.Y.); (L.H.); (L.L.); (X.P.); (W.J.)
| | - Guohuan Yang
- CNBG-Virogin Biotech (Shanghai) Co., Ltd., Shanghai 201800, China; (W.Z.); (L.J.); (S.L.); (F.W.); (G.Y.); (L.H.); (L.L.); (X.P.); (W.J.)
| | - Li Hou
- CNBG-Virogin Biotech (Shanghai) Co., Ltd., Shanghai 201800, China; (W.Z.); (L.J.); (S.L.); (F.W.); (G.Y.); (L.H.); (L.L.); (X.P.); (W.J.)
| | - Lan Liu
- CNBG-Virogin Biotech (Shanghai) Co., Ltd., Shanghai 201800, China; (W.Z.); (L.J.); (S.L.); (F.W.); (G.Y.); (L.H.); (L.L.); (X.P.); (W.J.)
| | - Xinping Pan
- CNBG-Virogin Biotech (Shanghai) Co., Ltd., Shanghai 201800, China; (W.Z.); (L.J.); (S.L.); (F.W.); (G.Y.); (L.H.); (L.L.); (X.P.); (W.J.)
| | - William Jia
- CNBG-Virogin Biotech (Shanghai) Co., Ltd., Shanghai 201800, China; (W.Z.); (L.J.); (S.L.); (F.W.); (G.Y.); (L.H.); (L.L.); (X.P.); (W.J.)
- Shanghai-Virogin Biotech Co., Ltd., Shanghai 201800, China
| | - Yuntao Zhang
- CNBG-Virogin Biotech (Shanghai) Co., Ltd., Shanghai 201800, China; (W.Z.); (L.J.); (S.L.); (F.W.); (G.Y.); (L.H.); (L.L.); (X.P.); (W.J.)
- Sinopharm Group China National Biotech Group (CNBG) Co., Ltd., Beijing 100124, China
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28
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Cui J, Zhang L, Zhang Z, Luo X, Liu Y, Li C, Huang W, Zou L, Yu X, Xiao F. A precise and efficient circular RNA synthesis system based on a ribozyme derived from Tetrahymena thermophila. Nucleic Acids Res 2023; 51:e78. [PMID: 37378451 PMCID: PMC10415121 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkad554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Classic strategies for circular RNA (circRNA) preparation always introduce large numbers of linear transcripts or extra nucleotides to the circularized product. In this study, we aimed to develop an efficient system for circRNA preparation based on a self-splicing ribozyme derived from an optimized Tetrahymena thermophila group Ⅰ intron. The target RNA sequence was inserted downstream of the ribozyme and a complementary antisense region was added upstream of the ribozyme to assist cyclization. Then, we compared the circularization efficiency of ribozyme or flanking intronic complementary sequence (ICS)-mediated methods through the DNMT1, CDR1as, FOXO3, and HIPK3 genes and found that the efficiency of our system was remarkably higher than that of flanking ICS-mediated method. Consequently, the circularized products mediated by ribozyme are not introduced with additional nucleotides. Meanwhile, the overexpressed circFOXO3 maintained its biological functions in regulating cell proliferation, migration, and apoptosis. Finally, a ribozyme-based circular mRNA expression system was demonstrated with a split green fluorescent protein (GFP) using an optimized Coxsackievirus B3 (CVB3) internal ribosome entry site (IRES) sequence, and this system achieved successful translation of circularized mRNA. Therefore, this novel, convenient, and rapid engineering RNA circularization system can be applied for the functional study and large-scale preparation of circular RNA in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingyi Cui
- The Key Laboratory of Geriatrics, Beijing Institute of Geriatrics, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing Hospital/National Center of Gerontology of National Health Commission, PR China
- Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, PR China
- Clinical Biobank, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, PR China
| | - Lanxin Zhang
- Clinical Biobank, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, PR China
| | - Zaifeng Zhang
- The Key Laboratory of Geriatrics, Beijing Institute of Geriatrics, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing Hospital/National Center of Gerontology of National Health Commission, PR China
- Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, PR China
| | - Xuanmei Luo
- The Key Laboratory of Geriatrics, Beijing Institute of Geriatrics, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing Hospital/National Center of Gerontology of National Health Commission, PR China
| | - Ye Liu
- The Key Laboratory of Geriatrics, Beijing Institute of Geriatrics, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing Hospital/National Center of Gerontology of National Health Commission, PR China
| | - Chang Li
- The Key Laboratory of Geriatrics, Beijing Institute of Geriatrics, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing Hospital/National Center of Gerontology of National Health Commission, PR China
| | - Wei Huang
- The Key Laboratory of Geriatrics, Beijing Institute of Geriatrics, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing Hospital/National Center of Gerontology of National Health Commission, PR China
| | - Lihui Zou
- The Key Laboratory of Geriatrics, Beijing Institute of Geriatrics, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing Hospital/National Center of Gerontology of National Health Commission, PR China
| | - Xue Yu
- Department of Cardiology, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, PR China
| | - Fei Xiao
- The Key Laboratory of Geriatrics, Beijing Institute of Geriatrics, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing Hospital/National Center of Gerontology of National Health Commission, PR China
- Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, PR China
- Clinical Biobank, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, PR China
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29
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Kang DD, Li H, Dong Y. Advancements of in vitro transcribed mRNA (IVT mRNA) to enable translation into the clinics. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2023; 199:114961. [PMID: 37321375 PMCID: PMC10264168 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2023.114961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2023] [Revised: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The accelerated progress and approval of two mRNA-based vaccines to address the SARS-CoV-2 virus were unprecedented. This record-setting feat was made possible through the solid foundation of research on in vitro transcribed mRNA (IVT mRNA) which could be utilized as a therapeutic modality. Through decades of thorough research to overcome barriers to implementation, mRNA-based vaccines or therapeutics offer many advantages to rapidly address a broad range of applications including infectious diseases, cancers, and gene editing. Here, we describe the advances that have supported the adoption of IVT mRNA in the clinics, including optimization of the IVT mRNA structural components, synthesis, and lastly concluding with different classes of IVT RNA. Continuing interest in driving IVT mRNA technology will enable a safer and more efficacious therapeutic modality to address emerging and existing diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana D Kang
- Division of Pharmaceutics & Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, United States; Genomics Institute, Precision Immunology Institute, Department of Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, United States
| | - Haoyuan Li
- Genomics Institute, Precision Immunology Institute, Department of Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, United States
| | - Yizhou Dong
- Division of Pharmaceutics & Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, United States; Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Center for Clinical and Translational Science, The Comprehensive Cancer Center; Dorothy M. Davis Heart & Lung Research Institute, Department of Radiation Oncology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, United States; Genomics Institute, Precision Immunology Institute, Department of Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, United States.
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30
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Unti MJ, Jaffrey SR. Highly efficient cellular expression of circular mRNA enables prolonged protein expression. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.07.11.548538. [PMID: 37503010 PMCID: PMC10369907 DOI: 10.1101/2023.07.11.548538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
A major problem with mRNA therapeutics is the limited duration of protein expression due to the short half-life of mRNA. New approaches for generating highly stable circular mRNA in vitro have allowed increased duration of protein expression. However, it remains difficult to genetically encode circular mRNAs in mammalian cells, which limits the use of circular mRNA in cell-derived therapeutics. Here we describe the adaptation of the Tornado (Twister-optimized RNA for durable overexpression) system to achieve in-cell synthesis of circular mRNAs. We identify the promoter and internal ribosomal entry site (IRES) that result in high levels of protein expression in cells. We then show that these circular mRNAs can be packaged into virus-like particles (VLPs) thus enabling prolonged protein expression. Overall, these data describe a platform for synthesis of circular mRNAs and how these circular mRNAs can markedly enhance the ability of VLPs to function as a mRNA delivery tool.
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31
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Allchin ER, Rosch JC, Stoneman AD, Kim H, Lippmann ES. Generalized Strategy for Engineering Mammalian Cell-Compatible RNA-Based Biosensors from Random Sequence Libraries. ACS Sens 2023; 8:2079-2086. [PMID: 37155734 DOI: 10.1021/acssensors.3c00388] [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: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Fluorescent RNA-based biosensors are useful tools for real-time detection of molecules in living cells. These biosensors typically consist of a chromophore-binding aptamer and a target-binding aptamer, whereby the chromophore-binding aptamer is destabilized until a target is captured, which causes a conformational change to permit chromophore binding and an increase in fluorescence. The target-binding region is typically fabricated using known riboswitch motifs, which are already known to have target specificity and undergo structural changes upon binding. However, known riboswitches only exist for a limited number of molecules, significantly constraining biosensor design. To overcome this challenge, we designed a framework for producing mammalian cell-compatible biosensors using aptamers selected from a large random library by Capture-SELEX. As a proof-of-concept, we generated and characterized a fluorescent RNA biosensor against L-dopa, the precursor of several neurotransmitters. Overall, we suggest that this approach will have utility for generating RNA biosensors that can reliably detect custom targets in mammalian cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Everett R Allchin
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37212, United States
| | - Jonah C Rosch
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37212, United States
| | - Alexander D Stoneman
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37212, United States
| | - Hyosung Kim
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37212, United States
| | - Ethan S Lippmann
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37212, United States
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32
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Chen X, Wang C, Lu Y. Tactics targeting circular mRNA biosynthesis. Biotechnol Bioeng 2023. [PMID: 37126367 DOI: 10.1002/bit.28410] [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: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Faced with the development of mRNA technology in the field of medicine and vaccine, circular mRNA (circmRNA) becomes a strong alternative to mRNA for its circular secondary structure and higher stability. At present, the synthesis of circmRNAs has been realized by ligating linear mRNA precursors and is limited by poor efficiency. To solve this challenge, this study started with ribozyme catalysis and enzymatic reaction to explore different circmRNA biosynthesis strategies. In terms of ribozyme method, by screening different group I intron self-splicing system sequences, the sequence from thymidylate synthase (Td) gene of phage T4 showed the highest ligation efficiency. In terms of enzyme method, with the help of 20-bp homologous arm, T4 Rnl 2 was determined as the ligation method with the highest ligation efficiency. By comparing the two ligation methods, the expression level of circmRNA ligated by T4 Rnl 2 was 86% higher than that ligated by Td ribozyme. Based on these ligation methods, the screening results of internal ribosome entry site (IRES) sequences showed that mud crab dicistrovirus IRES was an IRES sequence with high ribosome binding ability and could be widely used in circmRNAs for efficient and stable translation in mammalian cells. These results should provide positive guidance for the industrial production of circmRNAs and the development of mRNA vaccines. Eventually, circmRNAs could widely function in the field of biomedicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinjie Chen
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Biocatalysis, Ministry of Education, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Chen Wang
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Biocatalysis, Ministry of Education, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Yuan Lu
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Biocatalysis, Ministry of Education, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
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33
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Loan Young T, Chang Wang K, James Varley A, Li B. Clinical Delivery of Circular RNA: Lessons Learned from RNA Drug Development. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2023; 197:114826. [PMID: 37088404 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2023.114826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023]
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNA) represent a distinct class of covalently closed-loop RNA molecules, which play diverse roles in regulating biological processes and disease states. The enhanced stability of synthetic circRNAs compared to their linear counterparts has recently garnered considerable research interest, paving the way for new therapeutic applications. While clinical circRNA technology is still in its early stages, significant advancements in mRNA technology offer valuable insights into its potential future applications. Two primary obstacles that must be addressed are the development of efficient production methods and the optimization of delivery systems. To expedite progress in this area, this review aims to provide an overview of the current state of knowledge on circRNA structure and function, outline recent techniques for synthesizing circRNAs, highlight key delivery strategies and applications, and discuss the current challenges and future prospects in the field of circRNA-based therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiana Loan Young
- Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3M2, Canada
| | - Kevin Chang Wang
- Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3M2, Canada
| | - Andrew James Varley
- Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3M2, Canada
| | - Bowen Li
- Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3M2, Canada; Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3M2, Canada; Princess Margaret Cancer Center, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5G 2C1, Canada.
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34
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Li M, Wang Y, Wu P, Zhang S, Gong Z, Liao Q, Guo C, Wang F, Li Y, Zeng Z, Yan Q, Xiong W. Application prospect of circular RNA-based neoantigen vaccine in tumor immunotherapy. Cancer Lett 2023; 563:216190. [PMID: 37062328 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2023.216190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023]
Abstract
Neoantigen is a protein produced by mutant gene, which is only expressed in tumor cells. It is an ideal target for therapeutic tumor vaccines. Although synthetic long peptide (SLP)-based neoantigen vaccine, DNA-based neoantigen vaccine, and mRNA-based neoantigen vaccine are all in the development stage, they have some inherent shortcomings. Therefore, researchers turned their attention to a new type of "non-coding RNA (ncRNA)", circular RNA (circRNA), for potential better choice. Because of its unique high stability and protein-coding capacity, circRNA is a promising target in the field of neoantigen vaccine. In this paper, we reviewed the feasibility of circRNA encoding neoantigens, summarized the construction process, explained the mechanism of circRNA vaccine in vitro, and discussed the advantages and disadvantages of circRNA vaccine and possible combination with other immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohan Li
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410013, China; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410078, China; Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410078, China
| | - Yian Wang
- Key Laboratory of Translational Cancer Stem Cell Research, Department of Pathophysiology, Hunan Normal University School of Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Pan Wu
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410078, China
| | - Shanshan Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410078, China
| | - Zhaojian Gong
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
| | - Qianjin Liao
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410013, China
| | - Can Guo
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410078, China
| | - Fuyan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410078, China
| | - Yong Li
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410078, China
| | - Zhaoyang Zeng
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410013, China; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410078, China
| | - Qijia Yan
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410078, China.
| | - Wei Xiong
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410013, China; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410078, China.
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35
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Peña-Paladines JJ, Wong CH, Chen Y. Circularized RNA as novel therapeutics in cancer. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2023; 156:106364. [PMID: 36639095 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2023.106364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Circular RNAs (CircRNAs) regulate gene expression by functioning as microRNA sponges, regulating protein stability, and gilding proteins for gene transcription and translation. Also, limited circRNAs harbour protein-coding ability through cap-independent pathways. These molecular mechanisms of circRNAs contribute to their importance in several cellular processes. Particularly, the dysregulation of circRNAs also plays a critical role in disease development. Targeting disease-causing circRNAs by restoring their normal expression by gain-of-function or loss-of-function approach and regulating their molecular activities could be potential direction for the development of anti-cancer therapies. Furthermore, due to unique covalently closed circular structure, the superior stability of circRNAs also grants them as novel therapeutic tools replacing the therapeutic small interfering RNAs and messenger RNAs. Here, we will review the functional and molecular mechanisms of circRNAs in pathogenesis, the current methods for targeting the dysregulated circRNAs, and the potential of using synthetic circRNAs in disease treatment and prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Chi Hin Wong
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong; Shenzhen Research Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen 518087, China
| | - Yangchao Chen
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong; Shenzhen Research Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen 518087, China.
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36
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Liu L, Li W, Li J, Zhao D, Li S, Jiang G, Wang J, Chen X, Bi C, Zhang X. Circular Guide RNA for Improved Stability and CRISPR-Cas9 Editing Efficiency in Vitro and in Bacteria. ACS Synth Biol 2023; 12:350-359. [PMID: 36538017 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.2c00381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Due to its intrinsic RNA properties, guide RNA (gRNA) is the least stable component of the CRISPR-Cas9 complex and is a major target for modification and engineering to increase the stability of the system. While most strategies involve chemical modification and special processes, we created a more stable gRNA with an easy-to-use biological technique. Since circular RNAs are theoretically immune to all RNA exonucleases, we attempted to construct a circular gRNA (cgRNA) employing the autocatalytic splicing mechanism of the RNA cyclase ribozyme. First, the formation of the cgRNA, which has a length requirement, was optimized in vivo in E. coli cells. It was found that a cgRNA with an insert length of 251 bp, designated 251cgRNA, was functional. More importantly, cgRNA increased the editing efficiency of the tested base editors relative to normal linear gRNA. The cgRNAs were more stable in vitro under all tested temperature conditions and maintained their function for 24 h at 37 °C, while linear gRNAs completely lost their activity within 8 h. Enzymatically purified 251cgRNA demonstrated even higher stability, which was obviously presented on gels after 48 h at 37 °C, and maintained partial function. By inserting a homologous arm into the 251cgRNA to 251HAcgRNA cassette, the circularization efficiency reached 88.2%, and the half-life of 251HAcgRNA was 30 h, very similar to that of purified 251cgRNA. This work provides a simple innovative strategy to greatly increase the stability of gRNA both in vivo in E. coli and in vitro, with no additional cost or labor. We think this work is very interesting and might revolutionize the form of gRNAs people are using in research and therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Liu
- College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin 300453, China.,China Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin 300308, China.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, P.R. China
| | - Wenbo Li
- College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin 300453, China.,China Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin 300308, China
| | - Ju Li
- College of Life Science, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin 300387, China
| | - Dongdong Zhao
- China Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin 300308, China.,China Key Laboratory of Systems Microbial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin 300308, China
| | - Siwei Li
- China Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin 300308, China.,China Key Laboratory of Systems Microbial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin 300308, China
| | - Guo Jiang
- China Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin 300308, China.,China Key Laboratory of Systems Microbial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin 300308, China
| | - Jie Wang
- China Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin 300308, China.,China Key Laboratory of Systems Microbial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin 300308, China
| | - Xuxu Chen
- Guangxi Normal University, Guilin 541001, China
| | - Changhao Bi
- China Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin 300308, China.,China Key Laboratory of Systems Microbial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin 300308, China
| | - Xueli Zhang
- China Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin 300308, China.,China Key Laboratory of Systems Microbial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin 300308, China
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37
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Litke JL, Jaffrey SR. Designing and Expressing Circular RNA Aptamers to Regulate Mammalian Cell Biology. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2570:223-234. [PMID: 36156786 PMCID: PMC9797029 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2695-5_17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
RNA aptamers can be genetically encoded in cells to probe and manipulate cellular function. The usefulness of aptamers in mammalian cells is limited by low accumulation and degradation by ribonucleases. Expression of circular RNA aptamers using the Tornado expression system achieves high stability and an abundance of intracellular RNA aptamers. With this method, RNA aptamers with otherwise minimal activity become potent inhibitors. Here, we describe protocols to characterize circular RNA aptamers expressed using Tornado. Included are methods to assess stability, abundance, subcellular localization, and target binding by circular RNA aptamers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob L Litke
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill-Cornell Medical College, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Samie R Jaffrey
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill-Cornell Medical College, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA.
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38
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Welden JR, Margvelani G, Arizaca Maquera KA, Gudlavalleti B, Miranda Sardón S, Campos A, Robil N, Lee D, Hernandez A, Wang WX, Di J, de la Grange P, Nelson P, Stamm S. RNA editing of microtubule-associated protein tau circular RNAs promotes their translation and tau tangle formation. Nucleic Acids Res 2022; 50:12979-12996. [PMID: 36533443 PMCID: PMC9825173 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkac1129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Revised: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Aggregation of the microtubule-associated protein tau characterizes tauopathies, including Alzheimer's disease and frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD-Tau). Gene expression regulation of tau is complex and incompletely understood. Here we report that the human tau gene (MAPT) generates two circular RNAs (circRNAs) through backsplicing of exon 12 to either exon 7 (12→7 circRNA) or exon 10 (12→10 circRNA). Both circRNAs lack stop codons. The 12→7 circRNA contains one start codon and is translated in a rolling circle, generating a protein consisting of multimers of the microtubule-binding repeats R1-R4. For the 12→10 circRNA, a start codon can be introduced by two FTLD-Tau mutations, generating a protein consisting of multimers of the microtubule-binding repeats R2-R4, suggesting that mutations causing FTLD may act in part through tau circRNAs. Adenosine to inosine RNA editing dramatically increases translation of circRNAs and, in the 12→10 circRNA, RNA editing generates a translational start codon by changing AUA to AUI. Circular tau proteins self-aggregate and promote aggregation of linear tau proteins. Our data indicate that adenosine to inosine RNA editing initiates translation of human circular tau RNAs, which may contribute to tauopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Giorgi Margvelani
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | | | - Bhavani Gudlavalleti
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Sandra C Miranda Sardón
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Alexandre Rosa Campos
- Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute Proteomics Core, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | | | - Daniel C Lee
- Sanders-Brown Center on Aging, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA,Alzheimer's Disease Research Center Neuroscience, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | | | - Wang-Xia Wang
- Sanders-Brown Center on Aging, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA,Alzheimer's Disease Research Center and Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Jing Di
- Alzheimer's Disease Research Center and Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | | | - Peter T Nelson
- Sanders-Brown Center on Aging, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA,Alzheimer's Disease Research Center and Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
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39
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Lee KH, Kim S, Lee SW. Pros and Cons of In Vitro Methods for Circular RNA Preparation. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:13247. [PMID: 36362032 PMCID: PMC9654983 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232113247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/29/2022] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
mRNA is gaining success as a new therapeutic agent and vaccine. However, mRNA has limitations in stability. To overcome the shortcomings of mRNA, circular RNA is emerging as a new modality. In this review, several current methods of manufacturing circular RNA in vitro are introduced and their advantages and disadvantages are reviewed. Furthermore, this study discusses which fields and directions of research and development are needed for the increase in the efficacy and productivity of circular RNA as a therapeutic agent and vaccine formulation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Seong-Wook Lee
- R&D Center, Rznomics Inc., Seongnam 13486, Korea
- Department of Bioconvergence Engineering, Research Institute of Advanced Omics, Dankook University, Yongin 16890, Korea
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40
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Nielsen AF, Bindereif A, Bozzoni I, Hanan M, Hansen TB, Irimia M, Kadener S, Kristensen LS, Legnini I, Morlando M, Jarlstad Olesen MT, Pasterkamp RJ, Preibisch S, Rajewsky N, Suenkel C, Kjems J. Best practice standards for circular RNA research. Nat Methods 2022; 19:1208-1220. [PMID: 35618955 PMCID: PMC9759028 DOI: 10.1038/s41592-022-01487-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are formed in all domains of life and via different mechanisms. There has been an explosion in the number of circRNA papers in recent years; however, as a relatively young field, circRNA biology has an urgent need for common experimental standards for isolating, analyzing, expressing and depleting circRNAs. Here we propose a set of guidelines for circRNA studies based on the authors' experience. This Perspective will specifically address the major class of circRNAs in Eukarya that are generated by a spliceosome-catalyzed back-splicing event. We hope that the implementation of best practice principles for circRNA research will help move the field forward and allow a better functional understanding of this fascinating group of RNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne F Nielsen
- Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Center for Cellular Signal Patterns (CellPAT), Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Albrecht Bindereif
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, Institute of Biochemistry, Justus Liebig University of Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Irene Bozzoni
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Charles Darwin, and Center for Life Nano- & Neuro-Science, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Mor Hanan
- Department of Biological Chemistry, The Institute of Life Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Thomas B Hansen
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- TargoVax - Clinical Science, Oslo, Norway
| | - Manuel Irimia
- Centre for Genomic Regulation, Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain
- Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain
- ICREA, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | - Ivano Legnini
- Berlin Institute for Medical Systems Biology, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, Berlin, Germany
| | - Mariangela Morlando
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 'Department of Excellence 2018-2022', University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | | | - R Jeroen Pasterkamp
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, University Medical Center Utrecht Brain Center, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Stephan Preibisch
- Berlin Institute for Medical Systems Biology, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, Berlin, Germany
- HHMI Janelia Research campus, Ashburn, VA, USA
| | - Nikolaus Rajewsky
- Berlin Institute for Medical Systems Biology, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, Berlin, Germany
| | - Christin Suenkel
- Berlin Institute for Medical Systems Biology, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, Berlin, Germany
- Lonza - Drug Product Services, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jørgen Kjems
- Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.
- Center for Cellular Signal Patterns (CellPAT), Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.
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41
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Gu Y, Duan J, Yang N, Yang Y, Zhao X. mRNA vaccines in the prevention and treatment of diseases. MedComm (Beijing) 2022; 3:e167. [PMID: 36033422 PMCID: PMC9409637 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) vaccines made their successful public debut in the effort against the COVID-19 outbreak starting in late 2019, although the history of mRNA vaccines can be traced back decades. This review provides an overview to discuss the historical course and present situation of mRNA vaccine development in addition to some basic concepts that underly mRNA vaccines. We discuss the general preparation and manufacturing of mRNA vaccines and also discuss the scientific advances in the in vivo delivery system and evaluate popular approaches (i.e., lipid nanoparticle and protamine) in detail. Next, we highlight the clinical value of mRNA vaccines as potent candidates for therapeutic treatment and discuss clinical progress in the treatment of cancer and coronavirus disease 2019. Data suggest that mRNA vaccines, with several prominent advantages, have achieved encouraging results and increasing attention due to tremendous potential in disease management. Finally, we suggest some potential directions worthy of further investigation and optimization. In addition to basic research, studies that help to facilitate storage and transportation will be indispensable for practical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangzhuo Gu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer CenterWest China HospitalSichuan University; Collaborative Innovation Center for BiotherapyChengduChina
| | - Jiangyao Duan
- Department of Life SciencesImperial College LondonLondonUK
| | - Na Yang
- Stem Cell and Tissue Engineering Research Center/School of Basic Medical SciencesGuizhou Medical UniversityGuiyangChina
| | - Yuxin Yang
- Stem Cell and Tissue Engineering Research Center/School of Basic Medical SciencesGuizhou Medical UniversityGuiyangChina
| | - Xing Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer CenterWest China HospitalSichuan University; Collaborative Innovation Center for BiotherapyChengduChina
- Stem Cell and Tissue Engineering Research Center/School of Basic Medical SciencesGuizhou Medical UniversityGuiyangChina
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42
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Liu X, Zhang Y, Zhou S, Dain L, Mei L, Zhu G. Circular RNA: An emerging frontier in RNA therapeutic targets, RNA therapeutics, and mRNA vaccines. J Control Release 2022; 348:84-94. [PMID: 35649485 PMCID: PMC9644292 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2022.05.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 48.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNA) is a class of natural (biogenic) or synthetic closed RNA without 5' or 3' ends. Meanwhile, their unique covalently-closed structures of circRNA prevent RNA degradation by exonucleases, thereby empowering them with high pharmaceutical stability and biostability relative to current standard-of-care linear mRNA. Natural circRNA can be non-coding RNAs as well as protein-coding RNA, the latter of which was recently discovered. The physiological functions of biogenic circRNAs, which largely remain elusive, include protein and gene sponges, cell activity modulators, and protein translation. The discovery that the circRNA levels can be correlated with some human diseases empowers circRNA with the potential as a novel type of disease biomarkers and a noncanonical class of therapeutic targets. Recently, synthetic circRNA have been engineered to explore their applications as a novel class of mRNA therapeutics and vaccines. In this review, we will discuss the current understanding of the biogenesis and physiological functions of natural circRNAs, the approaches to circRNA synthesis, and current research in the exploration of endogenous circRNAs as novel therapeutic targets and testing circRNAs as an emerging class of RNA therapeutics and vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Liu
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Center for Pharmaceutical Engineering and Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Institute for Structural Biology and Drug Discovery, The Developmental Therapeutics Program, Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
| | - Yu Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Center for Pharmaceutical Engineering and Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Institute for Structural Biology and Drug Discovery, The Developmental Therapeutics Program, Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
| | - Shurong Zhou
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Center for Pharmaceutical Engineering and Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Institute for Structural Biology and Drug Discovery, The Developmental Therapeutics Program, Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
| | - Lauren Dain
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Center for Pharmaceutical Engineering and Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Institute for Structural Biology and Drug Discovery, The Developmental Therapeutics Program, Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
| | - Lei Mei
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Center for Pharmaceutical Engineering and Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Institute for Structural Biology and Drug Discovery, The Developmental Therapeutics Program, Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
| | - Guizhi Zhu
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Center for Pharmaceutical Engineering and Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Institute for Structural Biology and Drug Discovery, The Developmental Therapeutics Program, Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA.
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43
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Liu CX, Chen LL. Circular RNAs: Characterization, cellular roles, and applications. Cell 2022; 185:2016-2034. [PMID: 35584701 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2022.04.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 340] [Impact Index Per Article: 170.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Most circular RNAs are produced from the back-splicing of exons of precursor mRNAs. Recent technological advances have in part overcome problems with their circular conformation and sequence overlap with linear cognate mRNAs, allowing a better understanding of their cellular roles. Depending on their localization and specific interactions with DNA, RNA, and proteins, circular RNAs can modulate transcription and splicing, regulate stability and translation of cytoplasmic mRNAs, interfere with signaling pathways, and serve as templates for translation in different biological and pathophysiological contexts. Emerging applications of RNA circles to interfere with cellular processes, modulate immune responses, and direct translation into proteins shed new light on biomedical research. In this review, we discuss approaches used in circular RNA studies and the current understanding of their regulatory roles and potential applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chu-Xiao Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Ling-Ling Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China; School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China; School of Life Science, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China.
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44
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Breuer J, Barth P, Noe Y, Shalamova L, Goesmann A, Weber F, Rossbach O. What goes around comes around: Artificial circular RNAs bypass cellular antiviral responses. MOLECULAR THERAPY - NUCLEIC ACIDS 2022; 28:623-635. [PMID: 35497503 PMCID: PMC9042720 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2022.04.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Natural circular RNAs have been found to sequester microRNAs and suppress their function. We have used this principle as a molecular tool and produced artificial circular RNA sponges in a cell-free system by in vitro transcription and ligation. Formerly, we were able to inhibit hepatitis C virus propagation by applying a circular RNA decoy strategy against microRNA-122, which is essential for the viral life cycle. In another proof-of-principle study, we used circular RNAs to sequester microRNA-21, an oncogenic and pro-proliferative microRNA. This strategy slowed tumor growth in a 3D cell culture model system, as well as in xenograft mice upon systemic delivery. In the wake of the global use of an in vitro transcribed RNA in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines, the question arose whether therapeutic circular RNAs trigger cellular antiviral defense mechanisms when delivered systemically. In this study, we present data on the cellular innate immune response as a consequence of liposome-based transfection of the circular RNA sponges we previously used to inhibit microRNA function. We find that circular RNAs produced by the presented methodology do not trigger the antiviral response and do not activate innate immune-signaling pathways.
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45
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Engineering Circularized mRNAs for the Production of Spider Silk Proteins. Appl Environ Microbiol 2022; 88:e0002822. [PMID: 35384707 DOI: 10.1128/aem.00028-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Biomaterials offer unique properties that make them irreplaceable for next-generation applications. Fibrous proteins, such as various caterpillar silks and especially spider silk, have strength and toughness not found in human-made materials. In early studies, proteins containing long tandem repeats, such as major ampullate spidroin 1 (MaSp1) and flagelliform silk protein (FSLP), were produced using a large DNA template composed of many tandem repeats. The hierarchical DNA assembly of the DNA template is very time-consuming and labor-intensive, which makes the fibrous proteins difficult to study and engineer. In this study, we designed a circularized mRNA (cmRNA) employing the RNA cyclase ribozyme mechanism. cmRNAs encoding spider silk protein MaSp1 and FSLP were designed based on only one unit of the template sequence but provide ribosomes with a circular and infinite translation template for production of long peptides containing tandem repeats. Using this technique, cmRNAs of MaSp1 and FSLP were successfully generated with circularization efficiencies of 8.5% and 36.7%, respectively, which supported the production of recombinant MaSp1 and FSLP larger than 110 and 88 kDa, containing tens of repeat units. Western blot analysis and mass spectrometry confirmed the authenticity of MaSp1 and FSLP, which were produced at titers of 22.1 and 81.5 mg · liter-1, respectively. IMPORTANCE Spider silk is a biomaterial with superior properties. However, its heterologous expression template is hard to construct. The cmRNA technique simplifies the construction and expression strategy by proving the ribosome a circular translation template for expression of long peptides containing tandem repeats. This revolutionary technique will allow researchers to easily build, study, and experiment with any fiber proteins with sequences either from natural genes or artificial designs. We expect a significantly accelerated development of fibrous protein-based biomaterials with the cmRNA technique.
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Engineered circular ADAR-recruiting RNAs increase the efficiency and fidelity of RNA editing in vitro and in vivo. Nat Biotechnol 2022; 40:946-955. [PMID: 35145313 DOI: 10.1038/s41587-021-01180-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Current methods for programmed RNA editing using endogenous ADAR enzymes and engineered ADAR-recruiting RNAs (arRNAs) suffer from low efficiency and bystander off-target editing. Here, we describe LEAPER 2.0, an updated version of LEAPER that uses covalently closed circular arRNAs, termed circ-arRNAs. We demonstrate on average ~3.1-fold higher editing efficiency than their linear counterparts when expressed in cells or delivered as in vitro-transcribed circular RNA oligonucleotides. To lower off-target editing we deleted pairings of uridines with off-target adenosines, which almost completely eliminated bystander off-target adenosine editing. Engineered circ-arRNAs enhanced the efficiency and fidelity of editing endogenous CTNNB1 and mutant TP53 transcripts in cell culture. Delivery of circ-arRNAs using adeno-associated virus in a mouse model of Hurler syndrome corrected the pathogenic point mutation and restored α-L-iduronidase catalytic activity, lowering glycosaminoglycan accumulation in the liver. LEAPER 2.0 provides a new design of arRNA that enables more precise, efficient RNA editing with broad applicability for therapy and basic research.
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Obi P, Chen YG. The design and synthesis of circular RNAs. Methods 2021; 196:85-103. [PMID: 33662562 PMCID: PMC8670866 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymeth.2021.02.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Revised: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a novel class of RNAs distinguished by their single-stranded, covalently-closed topology. Although initially perceived as rare byproducts of aberrant splicing, circRNAs are now recognized as ubiquitously expressed and functionally significant. These discoveries have led to a growing need for ways to model circRNAs in living cells to advance our understanding of their biogenesis, regulation, and function, and to adopt them as new technologies for application within research and medicine. In this review, we provide an updated summary of approaches used to produce circRNAs in vitro and in vivo, the latter of which has grown considerably in recent years. Given increased interest in the unique functions carried out by individual circRNAs, we further dedicate a section on how to customize synthesized circRNAs for specific biological roles. We focus on the most common applications, including designing circRNAs for protein delivery, to target miRNAs and proteins, to act as fluorescent reporters, and to modulate cellular immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prisca Obi
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Y Grace Chen
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
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Abstract
Circular RNA (circRNA) is a unique type of noncoding RNA molecule. Compared with traditional linear RNA, circRNA is a covalently closed circle produced by a process called backsplicing. CircRNA is abundant in many cells and has rich functions in cells, such as acting as miRNA sponge, protein sponge, protein scaffold, and mRNA regulator. With the continuous development of circRNA study, circRNA has also played an important role in medical applications, including circRNA vaccines and gene therapy. In this review, we illustrate the synthesis of circRNAs in vitro. We focus on biological ligation methods, such as enzymatic ligation from the bacteriophage T4 and ribozyme method. In addition, we summarize the current challenges in the design, synthesis, application, and production of circRNAs, and propose possible solutions in the future. CircRNA is expected to play an essential role in basic research and medical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yuan Lu
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Biocatalysis, Ministry of Education, Department of Chemical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
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Jiang MP, Xu WX, Hou JC, Xu Q, Wang DD, Tang JH. The Emerging Role of the Interactions between Circular RNAs and RNA-binding Proteins in Common Human Cancers. J Cancer 2021; 12:5206-5219. [PMID: 34335937 PMCID: PMC8317540 DOI: 10.7150/jca.58182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a unique family of noncoding RNAs that could regulate multiple biological processes, which play a crucial role in carcinogenesis, progression and chemotherapy resistance of cancers. Growing studies have demonstrated that circRNAs act as novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets for cancers by sponging microRNAs (miRNAs). Up to date, another function of circRNAs, combining with RNA-binding proteins (RBPs), was uncovered. However, there is limit studies illustrating the underlying mechanism of circRNAs-RBPs interactions, as well as showing its roles in diverse types of cancers. In this review, we collected the biogenesis, properties of circRNAs, and then synthesize the connection between circRNAs and RBPs, and try to clarify its molecular mechanisms involving in the pathogenesis and progression of several common cancers, aiming to provide a brand-new insight to the prognosis and treatment strategy for cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng-Ping Jiang
- Department of General Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wen-Xiu Xu
- Department of General Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jun-Chen Hou
- Department of General Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qi Xu
- Department of General Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Dan-Dan Wang
- Department of General Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jin-Hai Tang
- Department of General Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
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Zeng Y, Zou Y, Gao G, Zheng S, Wu S, Xie X, Tang H. The biogenesis, function and clinical significance of circular RNAs in breast cancer. Cancer Biol Med 2021; 19:j.issn.2095-3941.2020.0485. [PMID: 34110722 PMCID: PMC8763001 DOI: 10.20892/j.issn.2095-3941.2020.0485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are noncoding RNAs that form covalently closed loop structures. CircRNAs are dysregulated in cancer and play key roles in tumorigenesis, diagnosis, and tumor therapy. CircRNAs function as competing endogenous RNAs or microRNA sponges that regulate transcription and splicing, binding to proteins, and translation. CircRNAs may serve as novel biomarkers for cancer diagnosis, and they show potential as therapeutic targets in cancers including breast cancer (BC). In women, BC is the most common malignant tumor worldwide and the second leading cause of cancer death. Although evidence indicates that circRNAs play a critical role in BC, the mechanisms regulating the function of circRNAs in BC remain poorly understood. Here, we provide literature review aiming to clarify the role of circRNAs in BC and summarize the latest research. We provide a systematic overview of the biogenesis and biological functions of circRNAs, elaborate on the functional roles of circRNAs in BC, and highlight the value of circRNAs as diagnostic and therapeutic targets in BC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zeng
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center; State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Yutian Zou
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center; State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Guanfeng Gao
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center; State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Shaoquan Zheng
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center; State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Song Wu
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center; State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Xiaoming Xie
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center; State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Hailin Tang
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center; State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou 510060, China
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