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Xu Y, Gao Z, Sun X, Li J, Ozaki T, Shi D, Yu M, Zhu Y. The role of circular RNA during the urological cancer metastasis: exploring regulatory mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2024; 43:1055-1074. [PMID: 38558156 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-024-10182-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Metastasis is a major contributor to treatment failure and death in urological cancers, representing an important biomedical challenge at present. Metastases form as a result of cancer cells leaving the primary site, entering the vasculature and lymphatic vessels, and colonizing clones elsewhere in the body. However, the specific regulatory mechanisms of action underlying the metastatic process of urological cancers remain incompletely elucidated. With the deepening of research, circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been found to not only play a significant role in tumor progression and prognosis but also show aberrant expression in various tumor metastases, consequently impacting tumor metastasis through multiple pathways. Therefore, circRNAs are emerging as potential tumor markers and treatment targets. This review summarizes the research progress on elucidating how circRNAs regulate the urological cancer invasion-metastasis cascade response and related processes, as well as their role in immune microenvironment remodeling and circRNA vaccines. This body of work highlights circRNA regulation as an emerging therapeutic target for urological cancers, which should motivate further specific research in this regard.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Xu
- Department of Urology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, China
| | - Zhipeng Gao
- Department of Urology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, China
| | - Xiaoyu Sun
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, China
| | - Jun Li
- Department of Urology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, China
| | - Toshinori Ozaki
- Laboratory of DNA Damage Signaling, Chiba Cancer Center Research Institute, Chiba, Japan
| | - Du Shi
- Department of Urology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, China.
| | - Meng Yu
- Department of Laboratory Animal Science, China Medical University, No. 77 Puhe Road, Shenyang, 110122, Liaoning, China.
| | - Yuyan Zhu
- Department of Urology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, China.
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2
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Roussis SG, Wan WB, Rentel C. Effect of diastereoisomeric composition on the chromatographic retention of phosphorothioated oligonucleotides using three different liquid chromatography systems. J Chromatogr A 2024; 1730:465108. [PMID: 38941798 DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2024.465108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2024] [Revised: 06/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/30/2024]
Abstract
To increase understanding of the interactions and effects of the diastereoisomeric character of phosphorothioate (PS) oligonucleotides on chromatographic retention, three chromatographic methods [in-series reversed phase-strong anion exchange (RP-SAX), ion pair-reversed phase and metal ion complexation chromatography (MICC)] were applied to the characterization of stereo-enriched compounds. Chromatographic systems are widely available, amenable to routine applications, and simple to deploy in comparison to more advanced instrumentation (e.g., 31P NMR) and procedures (e.g., enzymatic digestion). Analogous diastereoisomeric distribution profiles were obtained by RP-SAX and IP-RP based on their common mechanism of separation involving the combination of hydrophobic and electrostatic interactions. Similar linear relationships between retention time (tR) and the numbers of stereo random, Rp, and Sp PS linkages were obtained with both methods. Sp-enriched diastereoisomers were retained longer than stereo random and Rp-enriched diastereoisomers. MICC produced much broader diastereoisomeric peak distributions than the other two methods due to its more complicated nature of interaction. Average mass spectra showed a smaller number of Ag ions (1-7) complex with early eluting diastereoisomers than with later eluting diastereoisomers (which complex between 6-12 Ag ions). A higher late-to-early peak UV area ratio was obtained for a sample containing 10 Sp linkages vs one containing 10 Rp linkages pointing to the tendency of the Sp diastereoisomers for increased interactions which could be explained by structures with more open or stretched configurations. Consideration of the peak shapes of the MICC distributions led to comparable hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) classification to that produced by the IP-RP method, indicating a good orthogonality between the two methods. Preliminary analysis of the data using partial least squares showed that it should be possible to determine the diastereoisomeric composition of PS oligonucleotides from chromatographic data following appropriate data training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stilianos G Roussis
- Ionis Pharmaceuticals, 2855 Gazelle Ct., Carlsbad, California 92010, United States.
| | - W Brad Wan
- Ionis Pharmaceuticals, 2855 Gazelle Ct., Carlsbad, California 92010, United States
| | - Claus Rentel
- Ionis Pharmaceuticals, 2855 Gazelle Ct., Carlsbad, California 92010, United States
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Chaudhary R, Rehman M, Agarwal V, Kumar A, Kaushik AS, Srivastava S, Srivastava S, Verma R, Rajinikanth PS, Mishra V. Terra incognita of glial cell dynamics in the etiology of leukodystrophies: Broadening disease and therapeutic perspectives. Life Sci 2024; 354:122953. [PMID: 39122110 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2024.122953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 07/09/2024] [Accepted: 08/05/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024]
Abstract
Neuroglial cells, also known as glia, are primarily characterized as auxiliary cells within the central nervous system (CNS). The recent findings have shed light on their significance in numerous physiological processes and their involvement in various neurological disorders. Leukodystrophies encompass an array of rare and hereditary neurodegenerative conditions that were initially characterized by the deficiency, aberration, or degradation of myelin sheath within CNS. The primary cellular populations that experience significant alterations are astrocytes, oligodendrocytes and microglia. These glial cells are either structurally or metabolically impaired due to inherent cellular dysfunction. Alternatively, they may fall victim to the accumulation of harmful by-products resulting from metabolic disturbances. In either situation, the possible replacement of glial cells through the utilization of implanted tissue or stem cell-derived human neural or glial progenitor cells hold great promise as a therapeutic strategy for both the restoration of structural integrity through remyelination and the amelioration of metabolic deficiencies. Various emerging treatment strategies like stem cell therapy, ex-vivo gene therapy, infusion of adeno-associated virus vectors, emerging RNA-based therapies as well as long-term therapies have demonstrated success in pre-clinical studies and show promise for rapid clinical translation. Here, we addressed various leukodystrophies in a comprehensive and detailed manner as well as provide prospective therapeutic interventions that are being considered for clinical trials. Further, we aim to emphasize the crucial role of different glial cells in the pathogenesis of leukodystrophies. By doing so, we hope to advance our understanding of the disease, elucidate underlying mechanisms, and facilitate the development of potential treatment interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rishabh Chaudhary
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Vidya Vihar, Raebareli Road, Lucknow 226025, U.P., India
| | - Mujeeba Rehman
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Vidya Vihar, Raebareli Road, Lucknow 226025, U.P., India
| | - Vipul Agarwal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Vidya Vihar, Raebareli Road, Lucknow 226025, U.P., India
| | - Anand Kumar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Vidya Vihar, Raebareli Road, Lucknow 226025, U.P., India
| | - Arjun Singh Kaushik
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Vidya Vihar, Raebareli Road, Lucknow 226025, U.P., India
| | - Siddhi Srivastava
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Vidya Vihar, Raebareli Road, Lucknow 226025, U.P., India
| | - Sukriti Srivastava
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Vidya Vihar, Raebareli Road, Lucknow 226025, U.P., India
| | - Rajkumar Verma
- University of Connecticut School of Medicine, 200 Academic Way, Farmington, CT 06032, USA
| | - P S Rajinikanth
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Vidya Vihar, Raebareli Road, Lucknow 226025, U.P., India
| | - Vikas Mishra
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Vidya Vihar, Raebareli Road, Lucknow 226025, U.P., India.
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Palepšienė R, Muralidharan A, Maciulevičius M, Ruzgys P, Chopra S, Boukany PE, Šatkauskas S. New insights into the mechanism of electrotransfer of small nucleic acids. Bioelectrochemistry 2024; 158:108696. [PMID: 38583283 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioelechem.2024.108696] [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: 12/28/2023] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi) is a powerful and rapidly developing technology that enables precise silencing of genes of interest. However, the clinical development of RNAi is hampered by the limited cellular uptake and stability of the transferred molecules. Electroporation (EP) is an efficient and versatile technique for the transfer of both RNA and DNA. Although the mechanism of electrotransfer of small nucleic acids has been studied previously, too little is known about the potential effects of significantly larger pDNA on this process. Here we present a fundamental study of the mechanism of electrotransfer of oligonucleotides and siRNA that occur independently and simultaneously with pDNA by employing confocal fluorescence microscopy. In contrast to the conditional understanding of the mechanism, we have shown that the electrotransfer of oligonucleotides and siRNA is driven by both electrophoretic forces and diffusion after EP, followed by subsequent entry into the nucleus within 5 min after treatment. The study also revealed that the efficiency of siRNA electrotransfer decreases in response to an increase in pDNA concentration. Overall, the study provides new insights into the mechanism of electrotransfer of small nucleic acids which may have broader implications for the future application of RNAi-based strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rūta Palepšienė
- Research Institute of Natural Sciences and Technology, Vytautas Magnus University, Universiteto str. 10, Akademija, Kaunas district LT-53361, Lithuania.
| | - Aswin Muralidharan
- Department of Bionanoscience, Delft University of Technology, Van der Maasweg 9 2629 HZ Delft, Netherlands; Kavli Institute of Nanoscience, Delft University of Technology, Van der Maasweg 9 2629 HZ Delft, Netherlands.
| | - Martynas Maciulevičius
- Research Institute of Natural Sciences and Technology, Vytautas Magnus University, Universiteto str. 10, Akademija, Kaunas district LT-53361, Lithuania.
| | - Paulius Ruzgys
- Research Institute of Natural Sciences and Technology, Vytautas Magnus University, Universiteto str. 10, Akademija, Kaunas district LT-53361, Lithuania.
| | - Sonam Chopra
- Research Institute of Natural Sciences and Technology, Vytautas Magnus University, Universiteto str. 10, Akademija, Kaunas district LT-53361, Lithuania.
| | - Pouyan E Boukany
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Delft University of Technology, Van der Maasweg 9 2629 HZ Delft, Netherlands.
| | - Saulius Šatkauskas
- Research Institute of Natural Sciences and Technology, Vytautas Magnus University, Universiteto str. 10, Akademija, Kaunas district LT-53361, Lithuania.
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Saade J, Mestre TA. Huntington's Disease: Latest Frontiers in Therapeutics. Curr Neurol Neurosci Rep 2024; 24:255-264. [PMID: 38861215 DOI: 10.1007/s11910-024-01345-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Huntington's disease (HD) is an autosomal-dominant disorder caused by a pathological expansion of a trinucleotide repeat (CAG) on exon 1 of the huntingtin (HTT) gene. HD is characterized by the presence of chorea, alongside other hyperkinesia, parkinsonism and a combination of cognitive and behavioural features. Currently, there are no disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) for HD, and the only intervention(s) with approved indication target the treatment of chorea. This article reviews recent research on the clinical development of DMTs and newly developed tools that enhance clinical trial design towards a successful DMT in the future. RECENT FINDINGS HD is living in an era of target-specific drug development with emphasis on the mechanisms related to mutant Huntingtin (HTT) protein. Examples include antisense oligonucleotides (ASO), splicing modifiers and microRNA molecules that aim to reduce the levels of mutant HTT protein. After initial negative results with ASO molecules Tominersen and WVE-120101/ WVE-120102, the therapeutic landscape continues to expand, with various trials currently under development to document proof-of-concept and safety/tolerability. Immune-targeted therapies have also been evaluated in early-phase clinical trials, with promising preliminary findings. The possibility of quantifying mHTT in CSF, along with the development of an integrated biological staging system in HD are important innovations applicable to clinical trial design that enhance the drug development process. Although a future in HD with DMTs remains a hope for those living with HD, care partners and care providers, the therapeutic landscape is promising, with various drug development programs underway following a targeted approach supported by disease-specific biomarkers and staging frameworks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Saade
- The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Tiago A Mestre
- The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada.
- The University of Ottawa Brain and Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada.
- Parkinson's Disease and Movement Disorder Clinic, Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, ON, Canada.
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Binder AK, Bremm F, Dörrie J, Schaft N. Non-Coding RNA in Tumor Cells and Tumor-Associated Myeloid Cells-Function and Therapeutic Potential. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:7275. [PMID: 39000381 PMCID: PMC11242727 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25137275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2024] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
The RNA world is wide, and besides mRNA, there is a variety of other RNA types, such as non-coding (nc)RNAs, which harbor various intracellular regulatory functions. This review focuses on small interfering (si)RNA and micro (mi)RNA, which form a complex network regulating mRNA translation and, consequently, gene expression. In fact, these RNAs are critically involved in the function and phenotype of all cells in the human body, including malignant cells. In cancer, the two main targets for therapy are dysregulated cancer cells and dysfunctional immune cells. To exploit the potential of mi- or siRNA therapeutics in cancer therapy, a profound understanding of the regulatory mechanisms of RNAs and following targeted intervention is needed to re-program cancer cells and immune cell functions in vivo. The first part focuses on the function of less well-known RNAs, including siRNA and miRNA, and presents RNA-based technologies. In the second part, the therapeutic potential of these technologies in treating cancer is discussed, with particular attention on manipulating tumor-associated immune cells, especially tumor-associated myeloid cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Katharina Binder
- Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (A.K.B.); (F.B.); (J.D.)
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen European Metropolitan Area of Nuremberg (CCC ER-EMN), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Bavarian Cancer Research Center (BZKF), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Franziska Bremm
- Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (A.K.B.); (F.B.); (J.D.)
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen European Metropolitan Area of Nuremberg (CCC ER-EMN), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Bavarian Cancer Research Center (BZKF), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Jan Dörrie
- Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (A.K.B.); (F.B.); (J.D.)
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen European Metropolitan Area of Nuremberg (CCC ER-EMN), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Bavarian Cancer Research Center (BZKF), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Niels Schaft
- Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (A.K.B.); (F.B.); (J.D.)
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen European Metropolitan Area of Nuremberg (CCC ER-EMN), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Bavarian Cancer Research Center (BZKF), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
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Sang A, Zhuo S, Bochanis A, Manautou JE, Bahal R, Zhong XB, Rasmussen TP. Mechanisms of Action of the US Food and Drug Administration-Approved Antisense Oligonucleotide Drugs. BioDrugs 2024; 38:511-526. [PMID: 38914784 DOI: 10.1007/s40259-024-00665-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
Antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) are single stranded nucleic acids that target RNA. The US Food and Drug Administration has approved ASOs for several diseases. ASOs utilize three principal modes of action (MOA). The first MOA is initiated by base-pairing between the ASO and its target mRNA, followed by RNase H-dependent mRNA degradation. The second MOA is triggered by ASOs that occlude splice acceptor sites in pre-mRNAs leading to skipping of a mutation-bearing exon. The third MOA involves ASOs that sterically hinder mRNA function, often inhibiting translation. ASOs contain a variety of modifications to the sugar-phosphate backbone and bases that stabilize the ASO or render them resistant to RNase activity. RNase H-dependent ASOs include inotersen and eplontersen (for hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis), fomiversen (for opportunistic cytomegalovirus infection), mipomersen (for familial hypercholesterolemia), and tofersen [for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)]. Splice modulating ASOs include nursinersen (for spinal muscular atrophy) and eteplirsen, golodirsen, viltolarsen, and casimersen (all for the treatment of Duchenne muscular dystrophy). In addition, a designer ASO, milasen, was used to treat a single individual afflicted with Batten disease. Since ASO design relies principally upon knowledge of mRNA sequence, the bench to bedside pipeline for ASOs is expedient compared with protein-directed drugs. [Graphical abstract available.].
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Sang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Selena Zhuo
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Adara Bochanis
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - José E Manautou
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Raman Bahal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Xiao-Bo Zhong
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Theodore P Rasmussen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA.
- Institute for Systems Genomics, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA.
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA.
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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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Rafiei N, Alishah Aratboni H, Alemzadeh A, Saavedra-Alonso S, Razi H, Morones-Ramírez JR. Nano-Regulation of Gene Expression in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii: Harnessing AuNPs for Remotely Switchable Lipid Biosynthesis via Antisense Oligonucleotides. ACS Synth Biol 2024; 13:1694-1704. [PMID: 38548673 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.3c00650] [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: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
Antisense oligonucleotide (ASO)-mediated gene silencing has broad applications, spanning from biomedicine to agriculture, involving molecular biology, synthetic biology, and genetic manipulation. This research harnessed nanotechnology to augment ASO-mediated gene silencing, introducing a remotely switchable gene expression system for precise temporal control. We targeted lipid biosynthesis and accumulation enhancement in the photosynthetic eukaryote Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) transported double-stranded DNA (dsDNA), forming dsDNA-AuNP complexes. These complexes comprised 3'-thiolated sense strands attached to AuNPs and fluorescent antisense oligonucleotides. To avoid harmful laser effects on cells, we adopted a light-emitting diode (LED). Confocal microscopy confirmed dsDNA-AuNP internalization in C. reinhardtii. LED-triggered antisense release led to an 83% decrease in Citrate Synthase 2 (CIS 2) expression. Thiolated sense strand attachment postillumination inhibited antisense reannealing, enhancing gene silencing. This led to significant lipid body accumulation in cells, verified through fluorometric and fluorescence microscopy. This union of nanotechnology and ASO-mediated silencing provides gene regulation opportunities across sectors like biomedicine and agriculture. The system's remote switching capability underscores its potential in synthetic biology and genetic engineering. Our findings substantiate the utility of this approach for enhancing lipid biosynthesis in C. reinhardtii but also underscores its broader applicability to other organisms, fostering the development of novel solutions for pressing global challenges in energy, agriculture, and healthcare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nahid Rafiei
- Department of Plant Production and Genetics, School of Agriculture, Shiraz University, Shiraz 71946-84636, Iran
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, UANL, San Nicolás de los Garza, Nuevo León 66455, México
- Centro de Investigación en Biotecnología y Nanotecnología, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Parque de Investigación e Innovación Tecnológica, Apodaca, Nuevo León 66629, México
| | - Hossein Alishah Aratboni
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, UANL, San Nicolás de los Garza, Nuevo León 66455, México
- Centro de Investigación en Biotecnología y Nanotecnología, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Parque de Investigación e Innovación Tecnológica, Apodaca, Nuevo León 66629, México
| | - Abbas Alemzadeh
- Department of Plant Production and Genetics, School of Agriculture, Shiraz University, Shiraz 71946-84636, Iran
| | - Santiago Saavedra-Alonso
- Centro de Investigación en Biotecnología y Nanotecnología, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Parque de Investigación e Innovación Tecnológica, Apodaca, Nuevo León 66629, México
| | - Hooman Razi
- Department of Plant Production and Genetics, School of Agriculture, Shiraz University, Shiraz 71946-84636, Iran
| | - José Rubén Morones-Ramírez
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, UANL, San Nicolás de los Garza, Nuevo León 66455, México
- Centro de Investigación en Biotecnología y Nanotecnología, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Parque de Investigación e Innovación Tecnológica, Apodaca, Nuevo León 66629, México
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10
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Li S, Xiong F, Zhang S, Liu J, Gao G, Xie J, Wang Y. Oligonucleotide therapies for nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2024; 35:102184. [PMID: 38665220 PMCID: PMC11044058 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2024.102184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) represents a severe disease subtype of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) that is thought to be highly associated with systemic metabolic abnormalities. It is characterized by a series of substantial liver damage, including hepatocellular steatosis, inflammation, and fibrosis. The end stage of NASH, in some cases, may result in cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Nowadays a large number of investigations are actively under way to test various therapeutic strategies, including emerging oligonucleotide drugs (e.g., antisense oligonucleotide, small interfering RNA, microRNA, mimic/inhibitor RNA, and small activating RNA) that have shown high potential in treating this fatal liver disease. This article systematically reviews the pathogenesis of NASH/NAFLD, the promising druggable targets proven by current studies in chemical compounds or biological drug development, and the feasibility and limitations of oligonucleotide-based therapeutic approaches under clinical or pre-clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sixu Li
- Department of Pathophysiology, West China College of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610066, China
| | - Feng Xiong
- Department of Cardiology, The Third People’s Hospital of Chengdu, Chengdu 610031, China
| | - Songbo Zhang
- Department of Breast Surgery, Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Jinghua Liu
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Physiological Systems, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Guangping Gao
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Physiological Systems, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
- Li Weibo Institute for Rare Diseases Research, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
- Viral Vector Core, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical, School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Jun Xie
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Physiological Systems, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
- Viral Vector Core, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical, School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Yi Wang
- Department of Pathophysiology, West China College of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610066, China
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11
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Moreira L, Guimarães NM, Santos RS, Loureiro JA, Pereira MDC, Azevedo NF. Oligonucleotide probes for imaging and diagnosis of bacterial infections. Crit Rev Biotechnol 2024:1-20. [PMID: 38830823 DOI: 10.1080/07388551.2024.2344574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
The rise of infectious diseases as a public health concern has necessitated the development of rapid and precise diagnostic methods. Imaging techniques like nuclear and optical imaging provide the ability to diagnose infectious diseases within the body, eliminating delays caused by sampling and pre-enrichments of clinical samples and offering spatial information that can aid in a more informed diagnosis. Traditional molecular probes are typically created to image infected tissue without accurately identifying the pathogen. In contrast, oligonucleotides can be tailored to target specific RNA sequences, allowing for the identification of pathogens, and even generating antibiotic susceptibility profiles by focusing on drug resistance genes. Despite the benefits that nucleic acid mimics (NAMs) have provided in terms of stabilizing oligonucleotides, the inadequate delivery of these relatively large molecules into the cytoplasm of bacteria remains a challenge for widespread use of this technology. This review summarizes the key advancements in the field of oligonucleotide probes for in vivo imaging, highlighting the most promising delivery systems described in the literature for developing optical imaging through in vivo hybridization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luís Moreira
- LEPABE - Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- ALiCE - Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Nuno Miguel Guimarães
- LEPABE - Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- ALiCE - Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Rita Sobral Santos
- LEPABE - Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- ALiCE - Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Joana Angélica Loureiro
- LEPABE - Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- ALiCE - Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Maria do Carmo Pereira
- LEPABE - Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- ALiCE - Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Nuno Filipe Azevedo
- LEPABE - Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- ALiCE - Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
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12
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Muolokwu CE, Chaulagain B, Gothwal A, Mahanta AK, Tagoe B, Lamsal B, Singh J. Functionalized nanoparticles to deliver nucleic acids to the brain for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1405423. [PMID: 38855744 PMCID: PMC11157074 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1405423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Brain-targeted gene delivery across the blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a significant challenge in the 21st century for the healthcare sector, particularly in developing an effective treatment strategy against Alzheimer's disease (AD). The Internal architecture of the brain capillary endothelium restricts bio-actives entry into the brain. Additionally, therapy with nucleic acids faces challenges like vulnerability to degradation by nucleases and potential immune responses. Functionalized nanocarrier-based gene delivery approaches have resulted in safe and effective platforms. These nanoparticles (NPs) have demonstrated efficacy in protecting nucleic acids from degradation, enhancing transport across the BBB, increasing bioavailability, prolonging circulation time, and regulating gene expression of key proteins involved in AD pathology. We provided a detailed review of several nanocarriers and targeting ligands such as cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs), endogenous proteins, and antibodies. The utilization of functionalized NPs extends beyond a singular system, serving as a versatile platform for customization in related neurodegenerative diseases. Only a few numbers of bioactive regimens can go through the BBB. Thus, exploring functionalized NPs for brain-targeted gene delivery is of utmost necessity. Currently, genes are considered high therapeutic potential molecules for altering any disease-causing gene. Through surface modification, nanoparticulate systems can be tailored to address various diseases by replacing the target-specific molecule on their surface. This review article presents several nanoparticulate delivery systems, such as lipid NPs, polymeric micelles, exosomes, and polymeric NPs, for nucleic acids delivery to the brain and the functionalization strategies explored in AD research.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Jagdish Singh
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, College of Health and Human Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND, United States
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13
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Brown SD, Klimi E, Bakker WAM, Beqqali A, Baker AH. Non-coding RNAs to treat vascular smooth muscle cell dysfunction. Br J Pharmacol 2024. [PMID: 38773733 DOI: 10.1111/bph.16409] [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: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Vascular smooth muscle cell (vSMC) dysfunction is a critical contributor to cardiovascular diseases, including atherosclerosis, restenosis and vein graft failure. Recent advances have unveiled a fascinating range of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) that play a pivotal role in regulating vSMC function. This review aims to provide an in-depth analysis of the mechanisms underlying vSMC dysfunction and the therapeutic potential of various ncRNAs in mitigating this dysfunction, either preventing or reversing it. We explore the intricate interplay of microRNAs, long-non-coding RNAs and circular RNAs, shedding light on their roles in regulating key signalling pathways associated with vSMC dysfunction. We also discuss the prospects and challenges associated with developing ncRNA-based therapies for this prevalent type of cardiovascular pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon D Brown
- BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Queens Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Eftychia Klimi
- BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Queens Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | | | - Abdelaziz Beqqali
- BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Queens Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Andrew H Baker
- BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Queens Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, The Netherlands
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14
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Desgraves JF, Mendez Valdez MJ, Chandar J, Gurses ME, Henderson L, Castro JR, Seetheram D, Ivan ME, Komotar RJ, Shah AH. Antisense Oligonucleotides for Rapid Translation of Gene Therapy in Glioblastoma. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1944. [PMID: 38792022 PMCID: PMC11119631 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16101944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The limited efficacy of current treatments for malignant brain tumors necessitates novel therapeutic strategies. This study aimed to assess the potential of antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) as adjuvant therapy for high-grade gliomas, focusing on their CNS penetration and clinical translation prospects. METHODS A comprehensive review of the existing literature was conducted to evaluate the implications of ASOs in neuro-oncology. Studies that investigated ASO therapy's efficacy, CNS penetration, and safety profile were analyzed to assess its potential as a therapeutic intervention for high-grade gliomas. RESULTS ASOs present a promising avenue for enhancing targeted gene therapies in malignant gliomas. Their potent CNS penetration, in vivo durability, and efficient transduction offer advantages over conventional treatments. Preliminary in vivo and in vitro studies suggest ASOs as a viable adjuvant therapy for high-grade gliomas, warranting further exploration in clinical trials. CONCLUSIONS ASOs hold significant promise as adjuvant therapy for high-grade gliomas, offering improved CNS penetration and durability compared with existing treatments. While preliminary studies are encouraging, additional research is needed to establish the safety and efficacy of ASO therapy in clinical settings. Further investigation and clinical trials are warranted to validate ASOs as a transformative approach in neuro-oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jelisah F. Desgraves
- Section of Virology and Immunotherapy, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (J.F.D.); (M.J.M.V.); (J.C.); (L.H.); (J.R.C.); (D.S.); (A.H.S.)
| | - Mynor J. Mendez Valdez
- Section of Virology and Immunotherapy, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (J.F.D.); (M.J.M.V.); (J.C.); (L.H.); (J.R.C.); (D.S.); (A.H.S.)
| | - Jay Chandar
- Section of Virology and Immunotherapy, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (J.F.D.); (M.J.M.V.); (J.C.); (L.H.); (J.R.C.); (D.S.); (A.H.S.)
| | - Muhammet Enes Gurses
- Department of Neurosurgery, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, 1095 NW 14th Terrace (D4-6), Miami, FL 33136, USA; (M.E.I.); (R.J.K.)
| | - Lisa Henderson
- Section of Virology and Immunotherapy, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (J.F.D.); (M.J.M.V.); (J.C.); (L.H.); (J.R.C.); (D.S.); (A.H.S.)
| | - Jesus R. Castro
- Section of Virology and Immunotherapy, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (J.F.D.); (M.J.M.V.); (J.C.); (L.H.); (J.R.C.); (D.S.); (A.H.S.)
| | - Deepa Seetheram
- Section of Virology and Immunotherapy, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (J.F.D.); (M.J.M.V.); (J.C.); (L.H.); (J.R.C.); (D.S.); (A.H.S.)
| | - Michael E. Ivan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, 1095 NW 14th Terrace (D4-6), Miami, FL 33136, USA; (M.E.I.); (R.J.K.)
| | - Ricardo J. Komotar
- Department of Neurosurgery, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, 1095 NW 14th Terrace (D4-6), Miami, FL 33136, USA; (M.E.I.); (R.J.K.)
| | - Ashish H. Shah
- Section of Virology and Immunotherapy, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (J.F.D.); (M.J.M.V.); (J.C.); (L.H.); (J.R.C.); (D.S.); (A.H.S.)
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15
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Li Y, Hu Y, Kamal Z, Chen Y, Xue X, Yao S, Zhao H, Jia M, Li Y, Wang Z, Li M, Chen Z. Optimization of Dendritic Polypeptide Delivery System for Antisense Antibacterial Agents Targeting ftsZ. ACS OMEGA 2024; 9:20966-20975. [PMID: 38764644 PMCID: PMC11097154 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.4c00114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2024] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
There is an urgent requirement for a novel treatment strategy for drug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) infection. Antisense antimicrobials are promising antimicrobials, and efficient drug delivery systems are necessary for the further development of antisense antimicrobials. To develop new antisense drugs and further improve delivery efficiency and safety, we designed and screened new antisense sequences and optimized dendritic polypeptide nanoparticles (DP-AD) discovered in previous studies. The N/P ratio is optimized from 8:1 to 6:1, and the positive charge number of the optimized DP-AD is studied comprehensively. The results show that the N/P ratio and positive charge number have no significant effect on the particle size distribution and transport efficiency of DP-AD. Reducing the N/P ratio can significantly reduce the cytotoxicity of DP-AD, but it does not affect its delivery efficiency and antibacterial activity. However, in drug-resistant strains, the antibacterial activity of DP-AD76:1 with 10 positive charges is higher than that of DP-AD86:1 with 8 positive charges. Our research discovered a novel ASOs targeting ftsZ and concluded that DP-AD76:1 with 10 positive charges was the optimal choice at the current stage, which provided a promising strategy for the treatment of drug-resistant S. aureus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaoyao Li
- College
of Pharmacy, Shaanxi University of Chinese
Medicine, Xi’an 712046, China
- Department
of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, The
Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China
| | - Yue Hu
- Department
of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, The
Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China
| | - Zul Kamal
- Department
of Pharmacy, Shaheed Benazir Bhutto University, Sheringal 18000, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Paksitan
- School
of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Yamiao Chen
- Department
of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, The
Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China
| | - Xiaoyan Xue
- Department
of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, The
Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China
| | - Shuting Yao
- College
of Pharmacy, Shaanxi University of Chinese
Medicine, Xi’an 712046, China
- Department
of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, The
Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China
| | - Hui Zhao
- Department
of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, The
Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China
| | - Min Jia
- Department
of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, The
Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China
| | - Yuan Li
- Medical
College, Xi’an Peihua University, Xi’an 710061, China
| | - Zheng Wang
- College
of Pharmacy, Shaanxi University of Chinese
Medicine, Xi’an 712046, China
| | - Mingkai Li
- College
of Pharmacy, Shaanxi University of Chinese
Medicine, Xi’an 712046, China
- Department
of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, The
Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China
| | - Zhou Chen
- Department
of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, The
Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China
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16
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Sano T, Nagata T, Ebihara S, Yoshida-Tanaka K, Nakamura A, Sasaki A, Shimozawa A, Mochizuki H, Uchihara T, Hasegawa M, Yokota T. Effects of local reduction of endogenous α-synuclein using antisense oligonucleotides on the fibril-induced propagation of pathology through the neural network in wild-type mice. Acta Neuropathol Commun 2024; 12:75. [PMID: 38745295 PMCID: PMC11092238 DOI: 10.1186/s40478-024-01766-3] [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: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
In Parkinson's disease and other synucleinopathies, fibrillar forms of α-synuclein (aSyn) are hypothesized to structurally convert and pathologize endogenous aSyn, which then propagates through the neural connections, forming Lewy pathologies and ultimately causing neurodegeneration. Inoculation of mouse-derived aSyn preformed fibrils (PFFs) into the unilateral striatum of wild-type mice causes widespread aSyn pathologies in the brain through the neural network. Here, we used the local injection of antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) against Snca mRNA to confine the area of endogenous aSyn protein reduction and not to affect the PFFs properties in this model. We then varied the timing and location of ASOs injection to examine their impact on the initiation and propagation of aSyn pathologies in the whole brain and the therapeutic effect using abnormally-phosphorylated aSyn (pSyn) as an indicator. By injecting ASOs before or 0-14 days after the PFFs were inoculated into the same site in the left striatum, the reduction in endogenous aSyn in the striatum leads to the prevention and inhibition of the regional spread of pSyn pathologies to the whole brain including the contralateral right hemisphere. ASO post-injection inhibited extension from neuritic pathologies to somatic ones. Moreover, injection of ASOs into the right striatum prevented the remote regional spread of pSyn pathologies from the left striatum where PFFs were inoculated and no ASO treatment was conducted. This indicated that the reduction in endogenous aSyn protein levels at the propagation destination site can attenuate pSyn pathologies, even if those at the propagation initiation site are not inhibited, which is consistent with the original concept of prion-like propagation that endogenous aSyn is indispensable for this regional spread. Our results demonstrate the importance of recruiting endogenous aSyn in this neural network propagation model and indicate a possible potential for ASO treatment in synucleinopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatsuhiko Sano
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Science, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, 113-8519, Japan
- Center for Brain Integration Research, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, 113-8519, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Nagata
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Science, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, 113-8519, Japan.
- Center for Brain Integration Research, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, 113-8519, Japan.
- NucleoTIDE and PepTIDE Drug Discovery Center, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, 113-8519, Japan.
| | - Satoe Ebihara
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Science, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, 113-8519, Japan
- Center for Brain Integration Research, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, 113-8519, Japan
| | - Kie Yoshida-Tanaka
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Science, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, 113-8519, Japan
- Center for Brain Integration Research, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, 113-8519, Japan
| | - Ayako Nakamura
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Science, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, 113-8519, Japan
- Center for Brain Integration Research, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, 113-8519, Japan
| | - Asuka Sasaki
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Science, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, 113-8519, Japan
- Center for Brain Integration Research, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, 113-8519, Japan
| | - Aki Shimozawa
- Department of Brain and Neurosciences, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, 2-1-6 Kamikitazawa, Setagaya-Ku, Tokyo, 156-0057, Japan
| | - Hideki Mochizuki
- Department of Neurology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Toshiki Uchihara
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Science, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, 113-8519, Japan
- Center for Brain Integration Research, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, 113-8519, Japan
| | - Masato Hasegawa
- Department of Brain and Neurosciences, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, 2-1-6 Kamikitazawa, Setagaya-Ku, Tokyo, 156-0057, Japan
| | - Takanori Yokota
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Science, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, 113-8519, Japan.
- Center for Brain Integration Research, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, 113-8519, Japan.
- NucleoTIDE and PepTIDE Drug Discovery Center, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, 113-8519, Japan.
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17
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Schuster KH, Zalon AJ, DiFranco DM, Putka AF, Stec NR, Jarrah SI, Naeem A, Haque Z, Zhang H, Guan Y, McLoughlin HS. ASOs are an effective treatment for disease-associated oligodendrocyte signatures in premanifest and symptomatic SCA3 mice. Mol Ther 2024; 32:1359-1372. [PMID: 38429929 PMCID: PMC11081874 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2024.02.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Spinocerebellar ataxia type 3 (SCA3) is the most common dominantly inherited ataxia. Currently, no preventive or disease-modifying treatments exist for this progressive neurodegenerative disorder, although efforts using gene silencing approaches are under clinical trial investigation. The disease is caused by a CAG repeat expansion in the mutant gene, ATXN3, producing an enlarged polyglutamine tract in the mutant protein. Similar to other paradigmatic neurodegenerative diseases, studies evaluating the pathogenic mechanism focus primarily on neuronal implications. Consequently, therapeutic interventions often overlook non-neuronal contributions to disease. Our lab recently reported that oligodendrocytes display some of the earliest and most progressive dysfunction in SCA3 mice. Evidence of disease-associated oligodendrocyte signatures has also been reported in other neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, and Huntington's disease. Here, we assess the effects of anti-ATXN3 antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) treatment on oligodendrocyte dysfunction in premanifest and symptomatic SCA3 mice. We report a severe, but modifiable, deficit in oligodendrocyte maturation caused by the toxic gain-of-function of mutant ATXN3 early in SCA3 disease that is transcriptionally, biochemically, and functionally rescued with anti-ATXN3 ASO. Our results highlight the promising use of an ASO therapy across neurodegenerative diseases that requires glial targeting in addition to affected neuronal populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen H Schuster
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Annie J Zalon
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | | | - Alexandra F Putka
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Nicholas R Stec
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Sabrina I Jarrah
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Arsal Naeem
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Zaid Haque
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Hanrui Zhang
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Yuanfang Guan
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
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18
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Vandermeulen L, Geric I, Fumagalli L, Kreir M, Lu A, Nonneman A, Premereur J, Wolfs L, Policarpo R, Fattorelli N, De Bondt A, Van Den Wyngaert I, Asselbergh B, Fiers M, De Strooper B, d'Ydewalle C, Mancuso R. Regulation of human microglial gene expression and function via RNAase-H active antisense oligonucleotides in vivo in Alzheimer's disease. Mol Neurodegener 2024; 19:37. [PMID: 38654375 PMCID: PMC11040766 DOI: 10.1186/s13024-024-00725-9] [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: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Microglia play important roles in maintaining brain homeostasis and neurodegeneration. The discovery of genetic variants in genes predominately or exclusively expressed in myeloid cells, such as Apolipoprotein E (APOE) and triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 2 (TREM2), as the strongest risk factors for Alzheimer's disease (AD) highlights the importance of microglial biology in the brain. The sequence, structure and function of several microglial proteins are poorly conserved across species, which has hampered the development of strategies aiming to modulate the expression of specific microglial genes. One way to target APOE and TREM2 is to modulate their expression using antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs). METHODS In this study, we identified, produced, and tested novel, selective and potent ASOs for human APOE and TREM2. We used a combination of in vitro iPSC-microglia models, as well as microglial xenotransplanted mice to provide proof of activity in human microglial in vivo. RESULTS We proved their efficacy in human iPSC microglia in vitro, as well as their pharmacological activity in vivo in a xenografted microglia model. We demonstrate ASOs targeting human microglia can modify their transcriptional profile and their response to amyloid-β plaques in vivo in a model of AD. CONCLUSIONS This study is the first proof-of-concept that human microglial can be modulated using ASOs in a dose-dependent manner to manipulate microglia phenotypes and response to neurodegeneration in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lina Vandermeulen
- Neuroscience Discovery, Janssen Research & Development, Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, 2340, Beerse, Belgium
| | - Ivana Geric
- VIB-KU Leuven Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven, 3000, Belgium
- Laboratory for the Research of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Department of Neurosciences, Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven, Leuven, 3000, Belgium
| | - Laura Fumagalli
- MIND Lab, VIB Center for Molecular Neurology, VIB, 2610, Antwerp, Belgium
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, 2610, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Mohamed Kreir
- Preclinical Development & Safety, Janssen Research & Development, Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, 2340, Beerse, Belgium
| | - Ashley Lu
- VIB-KU Leuven Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven, 3000, Belgium
- Laboratory for the Research of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Department of Neurosciences, Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven, Leuven, 3000, Belgium
| | - Annelies Nonneman
- Neuroscience Discovery, Janssen Research & Development, Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, 2340, Beerse, Belgium
| | - Jessie Premereur
- MIND Lab, VIB Center for Molecular Neurology, VIB, 2610, Antwerp, Belgium
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, 2610, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Leen Wolfs
- VIB-KU Leuven Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven, 3000, Belgium
- Laboratory for the Research of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Department of Neurosciences, Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven, Leuven, 3000, Belgium
| | - Rafaela Policarpo
- Neuroscience Discovery, Janssen Research & Development, Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, 2340, Beerse, Belgium
- VIB-KU Leuven Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven, 3000, Belgium
- Laboratory for the Research of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Department of Neurosciences, Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven, Leuven, 3000, Belgium
| | - Nicola Fattorelli
- VIB-KU Leuven Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven, 3000, Belgium
- Laboratory for the Research of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Department of Neurosciences, Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven, Leuven, 3000, Belgium
| | - An De Bondt
- Discovery Sciences, Janssen Research & Development, Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, 2340, Beerse, Belgium
| | - Ilse Van Den Wyngaert
- Discovery Sciences, Janssen Research & Development, Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, 2340, Beerse, Belgium
| | - Bob Asselbergh
- Neuromics Support Facility, VIB Center for Molecular Neurology, University of Antwerp, 2610, Antwerp, Belgium
- Neuromics Support Facility, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, 2610, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Mark Fiers
- VIB-KU Leuven Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven, 3000, Belgium
- Laboratory for the Research of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Department of Neurosciences, Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven, Leuven, 3000, Belgium
- UK Dementia Research Institute, University College London, London, W1T 7NF, UK
| | - Bart De Strooper
- VIB-KU Leuven Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven, 3000, Belgium
- Laboratory for the Research of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Department of Neurosciences, Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven, Leuven, 3000, Belgium
- UK Dementia Research Institute, University College London, London, W1T 7NF, UK
| | - Constantin d'Ydewalle
- Neuroscience Discovery, Janssen Research & Development, Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, 2340, Beerse, Belgium.
| | - Renzo Mancuso
- VIB-KU Leuven Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven, 3000, Belgium.
- Laboratory for the Research of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Department of Neurosciences, Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven, Leuven, 3000, Belgium.
- MIND Lab, VIB Center for Molecular Neurology, VIB, 2610, Antwerp, Belgium.
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, 2610, Antwerp, Belgium.
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19
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Yang J, Li J, Miao L, Gao X, Sun W, Linghu S, Ren G, Peng B, Chen S, Liu Z, Wang B, Dong A, Huang D, Yuan J, Dang Y, Lai F. Transcription directionality is licensed by Integrator at active human promoters. Nat Struct Mol Biol 2024:10.1038/s41594-024-01272-z. [PMID: 38649617 DOI: 10.1038/s41594-024-01272-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
A universal characteristic of eukaryotic transcription is that the promoter recruits RNA polymerase II (RNAPII) to produce both precursor mRNAs (pre-mRNAs) and short unstable promoter upstream transcripts (PROMPTs) toward the opposite direction. However, how the transcription machinery selects the correct direction to produce pre-mRNAs is largely unknown. Here, through multiple acute auxin-inducible degradation systems, we show that rapid depletion of an RNAPII-binding protein complex, Integrator, results in robust PROMPT accumulation throughout the genome. Interestingly, the accumulation of PROMPTs is compensated by the reduction of pre-mRNA transcripts in actively transcribed genes. Consistently, Integrator depletion alters the distribution of polymerase between the sense and antisense directions, which is marked by increased RNAPII-carboxy-terminal domain Tyr1 phosphorylation at PROMPT regions and a reduced Ser2 phosphorylation level at transcription start sites. Mechanistically, the endonuclease activity of Integrator is critical to suppress PROMPT production. Furthermore, our data indicate that the presence of U1 binding sites on nascent transcripts could counteract the cleavage activity of Integrator. In this process, the absence of robust U1 signal at most PROMPTs allows Integrator to suppress the antisense transcription and shift the transcriptional balance in favor of the sense direction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiao Yang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Bio-Resources in Yunnan, Center for Life Science, Yunnan Key Laboratory of Cell Metabolism and Diseases, School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, China
- Southwest United Graduate School, Kunming, China
| | - Jingyang Li
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Bio-Resources in Yunnan, Center for Life Science, Yunnan Key Laboratory of Cell Metabolism and Diseases, School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, China
| | - Langxi Miao
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Bio-Resources in Yunnan, Center for Life Science, Yunnan Key Laboratory of Cell Metabolism and Diseases, School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, China
| | - Xu Gao
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Bio-Resources in Yunnan, Center for Life Science, Yunnan Key Laboratory of Cell Metabolism and Diseases, School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, China
| | - Wenhao Sun
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Bio-Resources in Yunnan, Center for Life Science, Yunnan Key Laboratory of Cell Metabolism and Diseases, School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, China
| | - Shuo Linghu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Bio-Resources in Yunnan, Center for Life Science, Yunnan Key Laboratory of Cell Metabolism and Diseases, School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, China
| | - Guiping Ren
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Bio-Resources in Yunnan, Center for Life Science, Yunnan Key Laboratory of Cell Metabolism and Diseases, School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, China
| | - Bangya Peng
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Bio-Resources in Yunnan, Center for Life Science, Yunnan Key Laboratory of Cell Metabolism and Diseases, School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, China
| | - Shunkai Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Bio-Resources in Yunnan, Center for Life Science, Yunnan Key Laboratory of Cell Metabolism and Diseases, School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, China
| | - Zhongqi Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Bio-Resources in Yunnan, Center for Life Science, Yunnan Key Laboratory of Cell Metabolism and Diseases, School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, China
| | - Bo Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Bio-Resources in Yunnan, Center for Life Science, Yunnan Key Laboratory of Cell Metabolism and Diseases, School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, China
| | - Ao Dong
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Bio-Resources in Yunnan, Center for Life Science, Yunnan Key Laboratory of Cell Metabolism and Diseases, School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, China
| | - Duo Huang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Bio-Resources in Yunnan, Center for Life Science, Yunnan Key Laboratory of Cell Metabolism and Diseases, School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, China
| | - Jinrong Yuan
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Bio-Resources in Yunnan, Center for Life Science, Yunnan Key Laboratory of Cell Metabolism and Diseases, School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, China
| | - Yunkun Dang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Bio-Resources in Yunnan, Center for Life Science, Yunnan Key Laboratory of Cell Metabolism and Diseases, School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, China.
| | - Fan Lai
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Bio-Resources in Yunnan, Center for Life Science, Yunnan Key Laboratory of Cell Metabolism and Diseases, School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, China.
- Southwest United Graduate School, Kunming, China.
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20
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Casini A, Al-Samkari H, Hayward C, Peyvandi F. Rare bleeding disorders: Advances in management. Haemophilia 2024; 30 Suppl 3:60-69. [PMID: 38494995 DOI: 10.1111/hae.14986] [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: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
Inherited factor coagulation deficiencies and vascular bleeding disorders, associated with bleeding of various severity, are often classified as rare bleeding disorders (RBDs). These include inherited fibrinogen disorders, inherited platelet function disorders (IPFD) and hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT). In the last decades, there have been large increases in knowledge on the epidemiology, genetics, physiopathology, clinical features, and diagnosis of RBDs, but improvements in management have been more limited and remain challenging. The treatment mainstay of RBDs is based only on replacement of a few available coagulation factor concentrates or cryoprecipitates. There is growing interest in therapeutic agents that enhance coagulation or inhibiting anticoagulant pathways in RBDs. In severe IPFD, the optimal platelet transfusion strategy is not yet established. Moreover, data is scarce on the effectiveness and safety of desmopressin and/or antifibrinolytic drugs often used for milder IPFD treatment. The best fibrinogen replacement strategy (prophylaxis vs. on demand) in afibrinogenemia is still debated. Similarly, the optimal trough fibrinogen target level for treatment of acute bleeding, and the role of fibrinogen replacement during pregnancy in mild hypofibrinogenemia and dysfibrinogenemia, have not been properly evaluated. The therapeutic arsenal in HHT includes antifibrinolytics and a series of antiangiogenic agents whose potential efficacy has been tested in small studies or are under investigation for treatment of bleeding. However, there is need to address several issues, including the optimal dosing strategies, the potential emergent toxicity of longer-term use, and the impact of systemic antiangiogenic treatment on visceral arteriovenous malformations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Casini
- Division of Angiology and Hemostasis, University Hospitals of Geneva and Faculty of Medicine of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Hanny Al-Samkari
- Division of Hematology Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Catherine Hayward
- Departments of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, and Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Flora Peyvandi
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Angelo Bianchi Bonomi Hemophilia and Thrombosis Center and Fondazione Luigi Villa, Milan, Italy
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
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21
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Peters-Clarke TM, Quan Q, Anderson BJ, McGee WM, Lohr E, Hebert AS, Westphall MS, Coon JJ. Phosphorothioate RNA Analysis by NETD Tandem Mass Spectrometry. Mol Cell Proteomics 2024; 23:100742. [PMID: 38401707 PMCID: PMC11047293 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcpro.2024.100742] [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: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Therapeutic RNAs are routinely modified during their synthesis to ensure proper drug uptake, stability, and efficacy. Phosphorothioate (PS) RNA, molecules in which one or more backbone phosphates are modified with a sulfur atom in place of standard nonbridging oxygen, is one of the most common modifications because of ease of synthesis and pharmacokinetic benefits. Quality assessment of RNA synthesis, including modification incorporation, is essential for drug selectivity and performance, and the synthetic nature of the PS linkage incorporation often reveals impurities. Here, we present a comprehensive analysis of PS RNA via tandem mass spectrometry (MS). We show that activated ion-negative electron transfer dissociation MS/MS is especially useful in diagnosing PS incorporation, producing diagnostic a- and z-type ions at PS linkage sites, beyond the standard d- and w-type ions. Analysis using resonant and beam-type collision-based activation reveals that, overall, more intense sequence ions and base-loss ions result when a PS modification is present. Furthermore, we report increased detection of b- and x-type product ions at sites of PS incorporation, in addition to the standard c- and y-type ions. This work reveals that the gas-phase chemical stability afforded by sulfur alters RNA dissociation and necessitates inclusion of additional product ions for MS/MS of PS RNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trenton M Peters-Clarke
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA; Department of Biomolecular Chemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Qiuwen Quan
- Department of Biomolecular Chemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Benton J Anderson
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA; Department of Biomolecular Chemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | | | - Emily Lohr
- Department of Biomolecular Chemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Alexander S Hebert
- Department of Biomolecular Chemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA; National Center for Quantitative Biology of Complex Systems, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Michael S Westphall
- Department of Biomolecular Chemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA; National Center for Quantitative Biology of Complex Systems, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Joshua J Coon
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA; Department of Biomolecular Chemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA; National Center for Quantitative Biology of Complex Systems, Madison, Wisconsin, USA; Morgridge Institute for Research, Madison, Wisconsin, USA.
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22
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Moreira L, Guimarães NM, Santos RS, Loureiro JA, Pereira MC, Azevedo NF. Promising strategies employing nucleic acids as antimicrobial drugs. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2024; 35:102122. [PMID: 38333674 PMCID: PMC10850860 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2024.102122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing concern because it causes microorganisms to develop resistance to drugs commonly used to treat infections. This results in increased difficulty in treating infections, leading to higher mortality rates and significant economic effects. Investing in new antimicrobial agents is, therefore, necessary to prevent and control AMR. Antimicrobial nucleic acids have arisen as potential key players in novel therapies for AMR infections. They have been designed to serve as antimicrobials and to act as adjuvants to conventional antibiotics or to inhibit virulent mechanisms. This new category of antimicrobial drugs consists of antisense oligonucleotides and oligomers, DNAzymes, and transcription factor decoys, differing in terms of structure, target molecules, and mechanisms of action. They are synthesized using nucleic acid analogs to enhance their resistance to nucleases. Because bacterial envelopes are generally impermeable to oligonucleotides, delivery into the cytoplasm typically requires the assistance of nanocarriers, which can affect their therapeutic potency. Given that numerous factors contribute to the success of these antimicrobial drugs, this review aims to provide a summary of the key advancements in the use of oligonucleotides for treating bacterial infections. Their mechanisms of action and the impact of factors such as nucleic acid design, target sequence, and nanocarriers on the antimicrobial potency are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luís Moreira
- LEPABE–Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology, and Energy, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
- ALiCE–Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
| | - Nuno M. Guimarães
- LEPABE–Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology, and Energy, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
- ALiCE–Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
| | - Rita S. Santos
- LEPABE–Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology, and Energy, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
- ALiCE–Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
| | - Joana A. Loureiro
- LEPABE–Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology, and Energy, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
- ALiCE–Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
| | - Maria C. Pereira
- LEPABE–Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology, and Energy, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
- ALiCE–Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
| | - Nuno F. Azevedo
- LEPABE–Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology, and Energy, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
- ALiCE–Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
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23
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Gila F, Alamdari-Palangi V, Rafiee M, Jokar A, Ehtiaty S, Dianatinasab A, Khatami SH, Taheri-Anganeh M, Movahedpour A, Fallahi J. Gene-edited cells: novel allogeneic gene/cell therapy for epidermolysis bullosa. J Appl Genet 2024:10.1007/s13353-024-00839-2. [PMID: 38459407 DOI: 10.1007/s13353-024-00839-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
Epidermolysis bullosa (EB) is a group of rare genetic skin fragility disorders, which are hereditary. These disorders are associated with mutations in at least 16 genes that encode components of the epidermal adhesion complex. Currently, there are no effective treatments for this disorder. All current treatment approaches focus on topical treatments to prevent complications and infections. In recent years, significant progress has been achieved in the treatment of the severe genetic skin blistering condition known as EB through preclinical and clinical advancements. Promising developments have emerged in the areas of protein and cell therapies, such as allogeneic stem cell transplantation; in addition, RNA-based therapies and gene therapy approaches have also become a reality. Stem cells obtained from embryonic or adult tissues, including the skin, are undifferentiated cells with the ability to generate, maintain, and replace fully developed cells and tissues. Recent advancements in preclinical and clinical research have significantly enhanced stem cell therapy, presenting a promising treatment option for various diseases that are not effectively addressed by current medical treatments. Different types of stem cells such as primarily hematopoietic and mesenchymal, obtained from the patient or from a donor, have been utilized to treat severe forms of diseases, each with some beneficial effects. In addition, extensive research has shown that gene transfer methods targeting allogeneic and autologous epidermal stem cells to replace or correct the defective gene are promising. These methods can regenerate and restore the adhesion of primary keratinocytes in EB patients. The long-term treatment of skin lesions in a small number of patients has shown promising results through the transplantation of skin grafts produced from gene-corrected autologous epidermal stem cells. This article attempts to summarize the current situation, potential development prospects, and some of the challenges related to the cell therapy approach for EB treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Gila
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Vahab Alamdari-Palangi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Maedeh Rafiee
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, USA
| | - Arezoo Jokar
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Sajad Ehtiaty
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Aria Dianatinasab
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Seyyed Hossein Khatami
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mortaza Taheri-Anganeh
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | | | - Jafar Fallahi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
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24
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Lanier OL, D’Andrea AP, Shodeinde A, Peppas NA. siRNA Delivery from Cationic Nanocarriers Prepared by Diffusion-assisted Loading in the Presence and Absence of Electrostatic Interactions. J Appl Polym Sci 2024; 141:e55029. [PMID: 38962028 PMCID: PMC11219015 DOI: 10.1002/app.55029] [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: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
In this study, we use modified cationic nanocarriers as vehicles for the intracellular delivery of therapeutic siRNA. After developing nanocarrier formulations with appropriate pKa, size, swellability, and cytocompatibility, we investigated the importance of siRNA loading methods by studying the impact of the pH and time over which siRNA is loaded into the nanocarriers. We concentrate on diffusion-based loading in the presence and absence of electrostatic interactions. siRNA release kinetics were studied using samples prepared from nanocarriers loaded by both mechanisms. In addition, siRNA delivery was evaluated for two formulations. While previous studies were conducted with samples prepared by siRNA loading at low pH values, this research provides evidence that loading conditions of siRNA affect the release behavior. This study concludes that this concept could prove advantageous for eliciting prolonged intracellular release of nucleic acids and negatively charged molecules, effectively decreasing dose frequency and contributing to more effective therapies and improved patient outcomes. In addition, our findings could be leveraged for enhanced control over siRNA release kinetics, providing novel methods for the continued optimization of cationic nanoparticles in a wide array of RNA interference-based applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia L. Lanier
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
- Institute for Biomaterials, Drug Delivery, and Regenerative Medicine
| | - Abielle P. D’Andrea
- McKetta Department of Chemical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
- Institute for Biomaterials, Drug Delivery, and Regenerative Medicine
| | - Aaliyah Shodeinde
- McKetta Department of Chemical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
- Institute for Biomaterials, Drug Delivery, and Regenerative Medicine
| | - Nicholas A. Peppas
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
- McKetta Department of Chemical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
- Institute for Biomaterials, Drug Delivery, and Regenerative Medicine
- Department of Surgery and Perioperative Care, Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
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25
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Sergeeva O, Akhmetova E, Dukova S, Beloglazkina E, Uspenskaya A, Machulkin A, Stetsenko D, Zatsepin T. Structure-activity relationship study of mesyl and busyl phosphoramidate antisense oligonucleotides for unaided and PSMA-mediated uptake into prostate cancer cells. Front Chem 2024; 12:1342178. [PMID: 38501046 PMCID: PMC10944894 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2024.1342178] [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: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Phosphorothioate (PS) group is a key component of a majority of FDA approved oligonucleotide drugs that increase stability to nucleases whilst maintaining interactions with many proteins, including RNase H in the case of antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs). At the same time, uniform PS modification increases nonspecific protein binding that can trigger toxicity and pro-inflammatory effects, so discovery and characterization of alternative phosphate mimics for RNA therapeutics is an actual task. Here we evaluated the effects of the introduction of several N-alkane sulfonyl phosphoramidate groups such as mesyl (methanesulfonyl) or busyl (1-butanesulfonyl) phosphoramidates into gapmer ASOs on the efficiency and pattern of RNase H cleavage, cellular uptake in vitro, and intracellular localization. Using Malat1 lncRNA as a target, we have identified patterns of mesyl or busyl modifications in the ASOs for optimal knockdown in vitro. Combination of the PSMA ligand-mediated delivery with optimized mesyl and busyl ASOs resulted in the efficient target depletion in the prostate cancer cells. Our study demonstrated that other N-alkanesulfonyl phosphoramidate groups apart from a known mesyl phosphoramidate can serve as an essential component of mixed backbone gapmer ASOs to reduce drawbacks of uniformly PS-modified gapmers, and deserve further investigation in RNA therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- O. Sergeeva
- Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology, Moscow, Russia
| | - E. Akhmetova
- Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology, Moscow, Russia
| | - S. Dukova
- Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology, Moscow, Russia
| | - E. Beloglazkina
- Department of Chemistry, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
| | - A. Uspenskaya
- Department of Chemistry, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
| | - A. Machulkin
- Department of Chemistry, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
- Department for Biochemistry, People’s Friendship University of Russia Named after Patrice Lumumba (RUDN University), Moscow, Russia
| | - D. Stetsenko
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - T. Zatsepin
- Department of Chemistry, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
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26
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Pettinato M, Aghajan M, Guo S, Bavuso Volpe L, Carleo R, Nai A, Pagani A, Altamura S, Silvestri L. A functional interplay between the two BMP-SMAD pathway inhibitors TMPRSS6 and FKBP12 regulates hepcidin expression in vivo. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2024; 326:G310-G317. [PMID: 38252872 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00305.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
The Activin A Receptor type I (ALK2) is a critical component of BMP-SMAD signaling that, in the presence of ligands, phosphorylates cytosolic SMAD1/5/8 and modulates important biological processes, including bone formation and iron metabolism. In hepatocytes, the BMP-SMAD pathway controls the expression of hepcidin, the liver peptide hormone that regulates body iron homeostasis via the BMP receptors ALK2 and ALK3, and the hemochromatosis proteins. The main negative regulator of the pathway in the liver is transmembrane serine protease 6 (TMPRSS6), which downregulates hepcidin by cleaving the BMP coreceptor hemojuvelin. ALK2 function is inhibited also by the immunophilin FKBP12, which maintains the receptor in an inactive conformation. FKBP12 sequestration by tacrolimus or its silencing upregulates hepcidin in primary hepatocytes and in vivo in acute but not chronic settings. Interestingly, gain-of-function mutations in ALK2 that impair FKBP12 binding to the receptor and activate the pathway cause a bone phenotype in patients affected by Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva but not hepcidin and iron metabolism dysfunction. This observation suggests that additional mechanisms are active in the liver to compensate for the increased BMP-SMAD signaling. Here we demonstrate that Fkbp12 downregulation in hepatocytes by antisense oligonucleotide treatment upregulates the expression of the main hepcidin inhibitor Tmprss6, thus counteracting the ALK2-mediated activation of the pathway. Combined downregulation of both Fkbp12 and Tmprss6 blocks this compensatory mechanism. Our findings reveal a previously unrecognized functional cross talk between FKBP12 and TMPRSS6, the main BMP-SMAD pathway inhibitors, in the control of hepcidin transcription.NEW & NOTEWORTHY This study uncovers a previously unrecognized mechanism of hepcidin and BMP-SMAD pathway regulation in hepatocytes mediated by the immunophilin FKBP12 and the transmembrane serine protease TMPRSS6.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariateresa Pettinato
- Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
- San Raffaele Vita-Salute University, Milan, Italy
| | - Mariam Aghajan
- Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Carlsbad, California, United States
| | - Shuling Guo
- Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Carlsbad, California, United States
| | - Letizia Bavuso Volpe
- Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Rossana Carleo
- Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Antonella Nai
- Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
- San Raffaele Vita-Salute University, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessia Pagani
- Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
- San Raffaele Vita-Salute University, Milan, Italy
| | - Sandro Altamura
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology and Immunology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Laura Silvestri
- Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
- San Raffaele Vita-Salute University, Milan, Italy
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Chen S, Heendeniya SN, Le BT, Rahimizadeh K, Rabiee N, Zahra QUA, Veedu RN. Splice-Modulating Antisense Oligonucleotides as Therapeutics for Inherited Metabolic Diseases. BioDrugs 2024; 38:177-203. [PMID: 38252341 PMCID: PMC10912209 DOI: 10.1007/s40259-024-00644-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
The last decade (2013-2023) has seen unprecedented successes in the clinical translation of therapeutic antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs). Eight such molecules have been granted marketing approval by the United States Food and Drug Administration (US FDA) during the decade, after the first ASO drug, fomivirsen, was approved much earlier, in 1998. Splice-modulating ASOs have also been developed for the therapy of inborn errors of metabolism (IEMs), due to their ability to redirect aberrant splicing caused by mutations, thus recovering the expression of normal transcripts, and correcting the deficiency of functional proteins. The feasibility of treating IEM patients with splice-switching ASOs has been supported by FDA permission (2018) of the first "N-of-1" study of milasen, an investigational ASO drug for Batten disease. Although for IEM, owing to the rarity of individual disease and/or pathogenic mutation, only a low number of patients may be treated by ASOs that specifically suppress the aberrant splicing pattern of mutant precursor mRNA (pre-mRNA), splice-switching ASOs represent superior individualized molecular therapeutics for IEM. In this work, we first summarize the ASO technology with respect to its mechanisms of action, chemical modifications of nucleotides, and rational design of modified oligonucleotides; following that, we precisely provide a review of the current understanding of developing splice-modulating ASO-based therapeutics for IEM. In the concluding section, we suggest potential ways to improve and/or optimize the development of ASOs targeting IEM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suxiang Chen
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Health Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA, 6150, Australia
- Precision Nucleic Acid Therapeutics, Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia
| | - Saumya Nishanga Heendeniya
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Health Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA, 6150, Australia
- Precision Nucleic Acid Therapeutics, Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia
| | - Bao T Le
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Health Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA, 6150, Australia
- Precision Nucleic Acid Therapeutics, Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia
- ProGenis Pharmaceuticals Pty Ltd, Bentley, WA, 6102, Australia
| | - Kamal Rahimizadeh
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Health Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA, 6150, Australia
- Precision Nucleic Acid Therapeutics, Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia
| | - Navid Rabiee
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Health Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA, 6150, Australia
- Precision Nucleic Acid Therapeutics, Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia
| | - Qurat Ul Ain Zahra
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Health Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA, 6150, Australia
- Precision Nucleic Acid Therapeutics, Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia
| | - Rakesh N Veedu
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Health Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA, 6150, Australia.
- Precision Nucleic Acid Therapeutics, Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia.
- ProGenis Pharmaceuticals Pty Ltd, Bentley, WA, 6102, Australia.
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28
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Van Daele SH, Masrori P, Van Damme P, Van Den Bosch L. The sense of antisense therapies in ALS. Trends Mol Med 2024; 30:252-262. [PMID: 38216448 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2023.12.003] [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: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2024]
Abstract
Treatment of patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) has entered a new era now that encouraging results about antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) are becoming available and a first ASO therapy for ALS has been approved by the FDA. Moreover, there is hope not only that ALS can be stopped but also that symptoms can be reversed. Until now, degrading ASOs seemed to be successful mostly for rarer forms of familial ALS. However, the first attempts to correct mis-splicing events in sporadic ALS are underway, as well as a clinical trial examining interference with a genetic modifier. In this review, we discuss the current status of using ASOs in ALS and the possibilities and pitfalls of this therapeutic strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sien H Van Daele
- KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Department of Neurosciences, Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), Leuven, Belgium; Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven, Belgium; Department of Human Genetics, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Pegah Masrori
- KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Department of Neurosciences, Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), Leuven, Belgium; Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven, Belgium; Department of Neurology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Philip Van Damme
- KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Department of Neurosciences, Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), Leuven, Belgium; Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven, Belgium; Department of Neurology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Ludo Van Den Bosch
- KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Department of Neurosciences, Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), Leuven, Belgium; Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven, Belgium.
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29
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Feichtenschlager V, Chen L, Zheng YJ, Ho W, Sanlorenzo M, Vujic I, Fewings E, Lee A, Chen C, Callanan C, Lin K, Qu T, Hohlova D, Vujic M, Hwang Y, Lai K, Chen S, Nguyen T, Muñoz DP, Kohwi Y, Posch C, Daud A, Rappersberger K, Kohwi-Shigematsu T, Coppé JP, Ortiz-Urda S. The therapeutically actionable long non-coding RNA 'T-RECS' is essential to cancer cells' survival in NRAS/MAPK-driven melanoma. Mol Cancer 2024; 23:40. [PMID: 38383439 PMCID: PMC10882889 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-024-01955-7] [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: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Finding effective therapeutic targets to treat NRAS-mutated melanoma remains a challenge. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) recently emerged as essential regulators of tumorigenesis. Using a discovery approach combining experimental models and unbiased computational analysis complemented by validation in patient biospecimens, we identified a nuclear-enriched lncRNA (AC004540.4) that is upregulated in NRAS/MAPK-dependent melanoma, and that we named T-RECS. Considering potential innovative treatment strategies, we designed antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) to target T-RECS. T-RECS ASOs reduced the growth of melanoma cells and induced apoptotic cell death, while having minimal impact on normal primary melanocytes. Mechanistically, treatment with T-RECS ASOs downregulated the activity of pro-survival kinases and reduced the protein stability of hnRNPA2/B1, a pro-oncogenic regulator of MAPK signaling. Using patient- and cell line- derived tumor xenograft mouse models, we demonstrated that systemic treatment with T-RECS ASOs significantly suppressed the growth of melanoma tumors, with no noticeable toxicity. ASO-mediated T-RECS inhibition represents a promising RNA-targeting approach to improve the outcome of MAPK pathway-activated melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentin Feichtenschlager
- Department of Dermatology, Mt Zion Cancer Research Center, University of California San Francisco, 2340 Sutter Street, Room N461, San Francisco, CA, 94115, USA.
- Department of Dermatology, Academic Teaching Hospital, Clinic Landstrasse Vienna, Medical University Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Linan Chen
- Department of Dermatology, Mt Zion Cancer Research Center, University of California San Francisco, 2340 Sutter Street, Room N461, San Francisco, CA, 94115, USA
| | - Yixuan James Zheng
- Department of Dermatology, Mt Zion Cancer Research Center, University of California San Francisco, 2340 Sutter Street, Room N461, San Francisco, CA, 94115, USA
- School of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Wilson Ho
- Department of Dermatology, Mt Zion Cancer Research Center, University of California San Francisco, 2340 Sutter Street, Room N461, San Francisco, CA, 94115, USA
| | - Martina Sanlorenzo
- Department of Dermatology, Mt Zion Cancer Research Center, University of California San Francisco, 2340 Sutter Street, Room N461, San Francisco, CA, 94115, USA
| | - Igor Vujic
- Department of Dermatology, Mt Zion Cancer Research Center, University of California San Francisco, 2340 Sutter Street, Room N461, San Francisco, CA, 94115, USA
- Department of Dermatology, Academic Teaching Hospital, Clinic Landstrasse Vienna, Medical University Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Faculty of Medicine, Sigmund Freud Private University, Vienna, Austria
| | - Eleanor Fewings
- Department of Dermatology, Mt Zion Cancer Research Center, University of California San Francisco, 2340 Sutter Street, Room N461, San Francisco, CA, 94115, USA
| | - Albert Lee
- Department of Dermatology, Mt Zion Cancer Research Center, University of California San Francisco, 2340 Sutter Street, Room N461, San Francisco, CA, 94115, USA
| | - Christopher Chen
- Department of Dermatology, Mt Zion Cancer Research Center, University of California San Francisco, 2340 Sutter Street, Room N461, San Francisco, CA, 94115, USA
| | - Ciara Callanan
- Department of Dermatology, Mt Zion Cancer Research Center, University of California San Francisco, 2340 Sutter Street, Room N461, San Francisco, CA, 94115, USA
| | - Kevin Lin
- Department of Dermatology, Mt Zion Cancer Research Center, University of California San Francisco, 2340 Sutter Street, Room N461, San Francisco, CA, 94115, USA
| | - Tiange Qu
- Department of Orofacial Science, Health Science West, University of California San Francisco School of Dentistry, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Dasha Hohlova
- Department of Dermatology, Mt Zion Cancer Research Center, University of California San Francisco, 2340 Sutter Street, Room N461, San Francisco, CA, 94115, USA
- Department of Biology, University of San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Marin Vujic
- Department of Dermatology, Mt Zion Cancer Research Center, University of California San Francisco, 2340 Sutter Street, Room N461, San Francisco, CA, 94115, USA
- Department of Dermatology, Academic Teaching Hospital, Clinic Landstrasse Vienna, Medical University Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Yeonjoo Hwang
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Kevin Lai
- Department of Dermatology, Mt Zion Cancer Research Center, University of California San Francisco, 2340 Sutter Street, Room N461, San Francisco, CA, 94115, USA
| | - Stephanie Chen
- Department of Dermatology, Mt Zion Cancer Research Center, University of California San Francisco, 2340 Sutter Street, Room N461, San Francisco, CA, 94115, USA
| | - Thuan Nguyen
- Department of Dermatology, Mt Zion Cancer Research Center, University of California San Francisco, 2340 Sutter Street, Room N461, San Francisco, CA, 94115, USA
| | - Denise P Muñoz
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Yoshinori Kohwi
- Department of Orofacial Science, Health Science West, University of California San Francisco School of Dentistry, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Christian Posch
- Department of Dermatology, Mt Zion Cancer Research Center, University of California San Francisco, 2340 Sutter Street, Room N461, San Francisco, CA, 94115, USA
- Department of Dermatology, Academic Teaching Hospital, Clinic Landstrasse Vienna, Medical University Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Faculty of Medicine, Sigmund Freud Private University, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy, School of Medicine, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Adil Daud
- Department of Dermatology, Mt Zion Cancer Research Center, University of California San Francisco, 2340 Sutter Street, Room N461, San Francisco, CA, 94115, USA
| | - Klemens Rappersberger
- Department of Dermatology, Academic Teaching Hospital, Clinic Landstrasse Vienna, Medical University Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Terumi Kohwi-Shigematsu
- Department of Orofacial Science, Health Science West, University of California San Francisco School of Dentistry, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jean-Philippe Coppé
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Susana Ortiz-Urda
- Department of Dermatology, Mt Zion Cancer Research Center, University of California San Francisco, 2340 Sutter Street, Room N461, San Francisco, CA, 94115, USA
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30
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Dos Passos PM, Hemamali EH, Mamede LD, Hayes LR, Ayala YM. RNA-mediated ribonucleoprotein assembly controls TDP-43 nuclear retention. PLoS Biol 2024; 22:e3002527. [PMID: 38422113 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3002527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
TDP-43 is an essential RNA-binding protein strongly implicated in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative disorders characterized by cytoplasmic aggregates and loss of nuclear TDP-43. The protein shuttles between nucleus and cytoplasm, yet maintaining predominantly nuclear TDP-43 localization is important for TDP-43 function and for inhibiting cytoplasmic aggregation. We previously demonstrated that specific RNA binding mediates TDP-43 self-assembly and biomolecular condensation, requiring multivalent interactions via N- and C-terminal domains. Here, we show that these complexes play a key role in TDP-43 nuclear retention. TDP-43 forms macromolecular complexes with a wide range of size distribution in cells and we find that defects in RNA binding or inter-domain interactions, including phase separation, impair the assembly of the largest species. Our findings suggest that recruitment into these macromolecular complexes prevents cytoplasmic egress of TDP-43 in a size-dependent manner. Our observations uncover fundamental mechanisms controlling TDP-43 cellular homeostasis, whereby regulation of RNA-mediated self-assembly modulates TDP-43 nucleocytoplasmic distribution. Moreover, these findings highlight pathways that may be implicated in TDP-43 proteinopathies and identify potential therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia M Dos Passos
- Edward Doisy Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Erandika H Hemamali
- Edward Doisy Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Lohany D Mamede
- Edward Doisy Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Lindsey R Hayes
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Yuna M Ayala
- Edward Doisy Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
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31
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Quraishi S, Saha D, Kumari K, Jha AN, Roy AS. Non-covalent binding interaction of bioactive coumarin esculetin with calf thymus DNA and yeast transfer RNA: A detailed investigation to decipher the binding affinities, binding location, interacting forces and structural alterations at a molecular level. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 257:128568. [PMID: 38061533 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.128568] [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: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
Esculetin is a well-known coumarin derivative found abundantly in nature possessing an extensive array of pharmacological and therapeutic properties. Consequently, to comprehend its molecular recognition mechanism, our objective is to conduct a complete investigation of its interactions with the nucleic acid, specifically ct-DNA, and t-RNA, using spectroscopic and computational techniques. The intrinsic fluorescence of esculetin is quenched when it interacts with ct-DNA and t-RNA, and this occurs through a static quenching mechanism. The thermodynamic parameters demonstrated that the interaction is influenced by hydrogen bonding and weak van der Waals forces. CD and FT-IR results revealed no conformational changes in ct-DNA and t-RNA structure on binding with esculetin. Furthermore, competitive displacement assay with ethidium bromide, melting temperature, viscosity measurement, and potassium iodide quenching experiments, reflected that esculetin probably binds to the minor groove of ct-DNA. The molecular docking results provided further confirmation for the spectroscopic findings, including the binding location of esculetin and binding energies of esculetin complexes with ct-DNA and t-RNA. Molecular dynamics simulation studies demonstrated the conformational stability and flexibility of nucleic acids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sana Quraishi
- Department of Chemistry, National Institute of Technology Meghalaya, Shillong 793003, India
| | - Debanjan Saha
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Tezpur University, Tezpur 784028, India
| | - Kalpana Kumari
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati 781039, India
| | - Anupam Nath Jha
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Tezpur University, Tezpur 784028, India.
| | - Atanu Singha Roy
- Department of Chemistry, National Institute of Technology Meghalaya, Shillong 793003, India.
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32
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Hymon D, Martins J, Richter C, Sreeramulu S, Wacker A, Ferner J, Patwardhan NN, Hargrove AE, Schwalbe H. NMR 1H, 19F-based screening of the four stem-looped structure 5_SL1-SL4 located in the 5'-untranslated region of SARS-CoV 2 RNA. RSC Med Chem 2024; 15:165-177. [PMID: 38283228 PMCID: PMC10809358 DOI: 10.1039/d3md00322a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Development of new antiviral medication against the beta-coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 (SCoV2) is actively being pursued. Both NMR spectroscopy and crystallography as structural screening technologies have been utilised to screen the viral proteome for binding to fragment libraries. Here, we report on NMR screening of elements of the viral RNA genome with two different ligand libraries using 1H-NMR-screening experiments and 1H and 19F NMR-screening experiments for fluorinated compounds. We screened against the 5'-terminal 119 nucleotides located in the 5'-untranslated region of the RNA genome of SCoV2 and further dissected the four stem-loops into its constituent RNA elements to test specificity of binding of ligands to shorter and longer viral RNA stretches. The first library (DRTL-F library) is enriched in ligands binding to RNA motifs, while the second library (DSI-poised library) represents a fragment library originally designed for protein screening. Conducting screens with two different libraries allows us to compare different NMR screening methodologies, describe NMR screening workflows, validate the two different fragment libraries, and derive initial leads for further downstream medicinal chemistry optimisation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Hymon
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Center for Biomolecular Magnetic Resonance (BMRZ), Goethe-University Frankfurt Max-von-Laue-Str. 7 60438 Frankfurt/Main Germany
| | - Jason Martins
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Center for Biomolecular Magnetic Resonance (BMRZ), Goethe-University Frankfurt Max-von-Laue-Str. 7 60438 Frankfurt/Main Germany
| | - Christian Richter
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Center for Biomolecular Magnetic Resonance (BMRZ), Goethe-University Frankfurt Max-von-Laue-Str. 7 60438 Frankfurt/Main Germany
| | - Sridhar Sreeramulu
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Center for Biomolecular Magnetic Resonance (BMRZ), Goethe-University Frankfurt Max-von-Laue-Str. 7 60438 Frankfurt/Main Germany
| | - Anna Wacker
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Center for Biomolecular Magnetic Resonance (BMRZ), Goethe-University Frankfurt Max-von-Laue-Str. 7 60438 Frankfurt/Main Germany
| | - Jan Ferner
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Center for Biomolecular Magnetic Resonance (BMRZ), Goethe-University Frankfurt Max-von-Laue-Str. 7 60438 Frankfurt/Main Germany
| | | | - Amanda E Hargrove
- Department of Chemistry, Duke University Durham North Carolina 27708 USA
| | - Harald Schwalbe
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Center for Biomolecular Magnetic Resonance (BMRZ), Goethe-University Frankfurt Max-von-Laue-Str. 7 60438 Frankfurt/Main Germany
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33
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Abdul-Rahman T, Lizano-Jubert I, Bliss ZSB, Garg N, Meale E, Roy P, Crino SA, Deepak BL, Miteu GD, Wireko AA, Qadeer A, Condurat A, Tanasa AD, Pyrpyris N, Sikora K, Horbas V, Sood A, Gupta R, Lavie CJ. RNA in cardiovascular disease: A new frontier of personalized medicine. Prog Cardiovasc Dis 2024:S0033-0620(24)00016-1. [PMID: 38253161 DOI: 10.1016/j.pcad.2024.01.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
Personalized medicine has witnessed remarkable progress with the emergence of RNA therapy, offering new possibilities for the treatment of various diseases, and in particular in the context of cardiovascular disease (CVD). The ability to target the human genome through RNA manipulation offers great potential not only in the treatment of cardiac pathologies but also in their diagnosis and prevention, notably in cases of hyperlipidemia and myocardial infarctions. While only a few RNA-based treatments have entered clinical trials or obtained approval from the US Food and Drug Administration, the growing body of research on this subject is promising. However, the development of RNA therapies faces several challenges that must be overcome. These include the efficient delivery of drugs into cells, the potential for immunogenic responses, and safety. Resolving these obstacles is crucial to advance the development of RNA therapies. This review explores the newest developments in medical studies, treatment plans, and results related to RNA therapies for heart disease. Furthermore, it discusses the exciting possibilities and difficulties in this innovative area of research.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Neil Garg
- Rowan-Virtua School of osteopathic medicine, Stratford, NJ, USA
| | - Emily Meale
- Rowan-Virtua School of osteopathic medicine, Stratford, NJ, USA
| | - Poulami Roy
- Department of Medicine, North Bengal Medical College and Hospital, Siliguri, India
| | | | | | - Goshen David Miteu
- School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, England, United Kingdom
| | | | - Abdul Qadeer
- Hospital Internal Medicine Department, Scottsdale Campus, Mayo Clinic, AZ, USA
| | | | | | - Nikolaos Pyrpyris
- First Department of Cardiology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Hippokration General Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | | | | | - Aayushi Sood
- Department of Medicine, The Wright Center for Graduate Medical Education, Scranton, PA, USA
| | - Rahul Gupta
- Lehigh Valley Heart and Vascular Institute, Lehigh Valley Health Network, Allentown, PA, USA.
| | - Carl J Lavie
- Department of Cardiology, Ochsner Clinic Foundation, New Orleans, LA, United States; The University of Queensland Medical School, Ochsner Clinical School, New Orleans, LA, United States
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Sharma VK, Mangla P, Singh SK, Prasad AK. Triazole-linked Nucleic Acids: Synthesis, Therapeutics and Synthetic Biology Applications. Curr Org Synth 2024; 21:436-455. [PMID: 37138439 DOI: 10.2174/1570179420666230502123950] [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: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
This article covers the triazole-linked nucleic acids where the triazole linkage (TL) replaces the natural phosphate backbone. The replacement is done at either a few selected linkages or all the phosphate linkages. Two triazole linkages, the four-atom TL1 and the six-atom TL2, have been discussed in detail. These triazole-modified oligonucleotides have found a wide range of applications, from therapeutics to synthetic biology. For example, the triazole-linked oligonucleotides have been used in the antisense oligonucleotide (ASO), small interfering RNA (siRNA) and clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-Cas9 technology as therapeutic agents. Due to the ease of the synthesis and a wide range of biocompatibility, the triazole linkage TL2 has been used to assemble a functional 300-mer DNA from alkyne- and azide-functionalized 100-mer oligonucleotides as well as an epigenetically modified variant of a 335 base-pair gene from ten short oligonucleotides. These outcomes highlight the potential of triazole-linked nucleic acids and open the doors for other TL designs and artificial backbones to fully exploit the vast potential of artificial nucleic acids in therapeutics, synthetic biology and biotechnology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivek K Sharma
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Mattapan, MA 02126, USA
- MassBiologics of the University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Mattapan, MA 02126, USA
| | - Priyanka Mangla
- Oligonucleotide Discovery, Discovery Sciences, BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Sunil K Singh
- Department of Chemistry, Kirori Mal College, University of Delhi, Delhi, 110 007, India
| | - Ashok K Prasad
- Department of Chemistry, Bioorganic Laboratory, University of Delhi, Delhi, 110 007, India
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35
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Unger L, Ghila L, Chera S. Targeted Gene Silencing by Using GapmeRs in Differentiating Human-Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (hiPSC) Toward Pancreatic Progenitors. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2736:23-38. [PMID: 37615889 DOI: 10.1007/7651_2023_498] [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: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
Induced pluripotent stem cells as a source for generating pancreatic islet endocrine cells represent a great research tool for deciphering the molecular mechanisms of lineage commitment, a layered multi-step process. Additionally, targeted gene silencing by using GapmeRs, short antisense oligonucleotides, proved instrumental in studying the role of different developmental genes. Here we describe our approach to induce mTOR silencing by using specific GapmeRs during the differentiation of induced pluripotent stem cells toward pancreatic progenitors. We will describe our current differentiation protocol, the transfection procedure, and the quality control steps required for a successful experiment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas Unger
- Mohn Research Center for Diabetes Precision Medicine, Department of Clinical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Luiza Ghila
- Mohn Research Center for Diabetes Precision Medicine, Department of Clinical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Simona Chera
- Mohn Research Center for Diabetes Precision Medicine, Department of Clinical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.
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Zeng Q, Liu CH, Ampuero J, Wu D, Jiang W, Zhou L, Li H, Bai L, Romero-Gómez M, Tang H. Circular RNAs in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: Functions and clinical significance. RNA Biol 2024; 21:1-15. [PMID: 38113132 PMCID: PMC10761141 DOI: 10.1080/15476286.2023.2290769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which affects approximately 25% of the global population, is an urgent health issue leading to various metabolic comorbidities. Circular RNAs (circRNAs), covalently closed RNA molecules, are characterized by ubiquity, diversity, stability, and conservatism. Indeed, they participate in various biological processes via distinct mechanisms that could modify the natural history of NAFLD. In this review, we briefly introduce the biogenesis, characteristics, and biological functions of circRNAs. Furthermore, we summarize circRNAs expression profiles in NAFLD by intersecting seven sequencing data sets and describe the cellular roles of circRNAs and their potential advantages as biomarkers of NAFLD. In addition, we emphatically discuss the exosomal non-coding RNA sorting mechanisms and possible functions in recipient cells. Finally, we extensively discuss the potential application of targeting disease-related circRNAs and competing endogenous RNA networks through gain-of-function and loss-of-function approaches in targeted therapy of NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingmin Zeng
- Center of Infectious Diseases, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Chang-Hai Liu
- Center of Infectious Diseases, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Javier Ampuero
- Digestive Diseases Unit, Virgen del Rocío University Hospital. SeLiver group at Institute of Biomedicine of Seville (IBIS: HUVRocío/CSIC/US). University of Seville, Seville, Spain
| | - Dongbo Wu
- Center of Infectious Diseases, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Division of Infectious Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Center of Infectious Disease, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wei Jiang
- Center of Infectious Diseases, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Division of Infectious Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Center of Infectious Disease, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Lingyun Zhou
- Center of Infectious Diseases, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Division of Infectious Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Center of Infectious Disease, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Hong Li
- Center of Infectious Diseases, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Division of Infectious Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Center of Infectious Disease, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Lang Bai
- Center of Infectious Diseases, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Division of Infectious Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Center of Infectious Disease, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Manuel Romero-Gómez
- Digestive Diseases Unit, Virgen del Rocío University Hospital. SeLiver group at Institute of Biomedicine of Seville (IBIS: HUVRocío/CSIC/US). University of Seville, Seville, Spain
| | - Hong Tang
- Center of Infectious Diseases, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Division of Infectious Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Center of Infectious Disease, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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Bhat MA, Dhaneshwar S. Neurodegenerative Diseases: New Hopes and Perspectives. Curr Mol Med 2024; 24:1004-1032. [PMID: 37691199 DOI: 10.2174/1566524023666230907093451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Huntington's disease, and Friedrich ataxia are all incurable neurodegenerative diseases defined by the continuous progressive loss of distinct neuronal subtypes. Despite their rising prevalence among the world's ageing population, fewer advances have been made in the concurrent massive efforts to develop newer drugs. Recently, there has been a shift in research focus towards the discovery of new therapeutic agents for neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, we have summarized the recently developed therapies and their status in the management of neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Aadil Bhat
- Amity Institute of Pharmacy, Lucknow, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Noida, UP, India
| | - Suneela Dhaneshwar
- Amity Institute of Pharmacy, Amity University Maharashtra, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
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Malakar P, Shukla S, Mondal M, Kar RK, Siddiqui JA. The nexus of long noncoding RNAs, splicing factors, alternative splicing and their modulations. RNA Biol 2024; 21:1-20. [PMID: 38017665 PMCID: PMC10761143 DOI: 10.1080/15476286.2023.2286099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The process of alternative splicing (AS) is widely deregulated in a variety of cancers. Splicing is dependent upon splicing factors. Recently, several long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been shown to regulate AS by directly/indirectly interacting with splicing factors. This review focuses on the regulation of AS by lncRNAs through their interaction with splicing factors. AS mis-regulation caused by either mutation in splicing factors or deregulated expression of splicing factors and lncRNAs has been shown to be involved in cancer development and progression, making aberrant splicing, splicing factors and lncRNA suitable targets for cancer therapy. This review also addresses some of the current approaches used to target AS, splicing factors and lncRNAs. Finally, we discuss research challenges, some of the unanswered questions in the field and provide recommendations to advance understanding of the nexus of lncRNAs, AS and splicing factors in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pushkar Malakar
- Department of Biomedical Science and Technology, School of Biological Sciences, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational Research Institute (RKMVERI), Kolkata, India
| | - Sudhanshu Shukla
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Dharwad, Dharwad, Karnataka, India
| | - Meghna Mondal
- Department of Biomedical Science and Technology, School of Biological Sciences, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational Research Institute (RKMVERI), Kolkata, India
| | - Rajesh Kumar Kar
- Department of Neurosurgery, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Jawed Akhtar Siddiqui
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
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Bhat AA, Afzal O, Agrawal N, Thapa R, Almalki WH, Kazmi I, Alzarea SI, Altamimi ASA, Kukreti N, Chakraborty A, Singh SK, Dua K, Gupta G. A comprehensive review on the emerging role of long non-coding RNAs in the regulation of NF-κB signaling in inflammatory lung diseases. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 253:126951. [PMID: 37734525 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.126951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
Public health globally faces significant risks from conditions like acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and various inflammatory lung disorders. The NF-κB signaling system partially controls lung inflammation, immunological responses, and remodeling. Non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are crucial in regulating gene expression. They are increasingly recognized for their involvement in NF-κB signaling and the development of inflammatory lung diseases. Disruption of lncRNA-NF-κB interactions is a potential cause and resolution factor for inflammatory respiratory conditions. This study explores the therapeutic potential of targeting lncRNAs and NF-κB signaling to alleviate inflammation and restore lung function. Understanding the intricate relationship between lncRNAs and NF-κB signaling could offer novel insights into disease mechanisms and identify therapeutic targets. Regulation of lncRNAs and NF-κB signaling holds promise as an effective approach for managing inflammatory lung disorders. This review aims to comprehensively analyze the interaction between lncRNAs and the NF-κB signaling pathway in the context of inflammatory lung diseases. It investigates the functional roles of lncRNAs in modulating NF-κB activity and the resulting inflammatory responses in lung cells, focusing on molecular mechanisms involving upstream regulators, inhibitory proteins, and downstream effectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asif Ahmad Bhat
- School of Pharmacy, Suresh Gyan Vihar University, Jagatpura 302017, Mahal Road, Jaipur, India
| | - Obaid Afzal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Al Kharj 11942, Saudi Arabia
| | - Neetu Agrawal
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, GLA University, Mathura, UP, India
| | - Riya Thapa
- School of Pharmacy, Suresh Gyan Vihar University, Jagatpura 302017, Mahal Road, Jaipur, India
| | - Waleed Hassan Almalki
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Imran Kazmi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Sami I Alzarea
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka, Al-Jouf, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Neelima Kukreti
- School of Pharmacy, Graphic Era Hill University, Dehradun 248007, India
| | - Amlan Chakraborty
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL, UK; Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Sachin Kumar Singh
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, 144411, India; Faculty of Health, Australian Research Centre in Complementary and Integrative Medicine, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo 2007, Australia
| | - Kamal Dua
- Faculty of Health, Australian Research Centre in Complementary and Integrative Medicine, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo 2007, Australia; Discipline of Pharmacy, Graduate School of Health, University of Technology Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia.
| | - Gaurav Gupta
- Center for Global Health research (CGHR), Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Science, Saveetha University, Chennai, India
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Nayab DE, Din FU, Ali H, Kausar WA, Urooj S, Zafar M, Khan I, Shabbir K, Khan GM. Nano biomaterials based strategies for enhanced brain targeting in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases: an up-to-date perspective. J Nanobiotechnology 2023; 21:477. [PMID: 38087359 PMCID: PMC10716964 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-023-02250-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurons and their connecting axons gradually degenerate in neurodegenerative diseases (NDs), leading to dysfunctionality of the neuronal cells and eventually their death. Drug delivery for the treatment of effected nervous system is notoriously complicated because of the presence of natural barriers, i.e., the blood-brain barrier and the blood cerebrospinal fluid barrier. Palliative care is currently the standard care for many diseases. Therefore, treatment programs that target the disease's origin rather than its symptoms are recommended. Nanotechnology-based drug delivery platforms offer an innovative way to circumvent these obstacles and deliver medications directly to the central nervous system, thereby enabling treatment of several common neurological problems, i.e., Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, Huntington's, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Interestingly, the combination of nanomedicine and gene therapy enables targeting of selective mutant genes responsible for the progression of NDs, which may provide a much-needed boost in the struggle against these diseases. Herein, we discussed various central nervous system delivery obstacles, followed by a detailed insight into the recently developed techniques to restore neurological function via the differentiation of neural stem cells. Moreover, a comprehensive background on the role of nanomedicine in controlling neurogenesis via differentiation of neural stem cells is explained. Additionally, numerous phytoconstituents with their neuroprotective properties and molecular targets in the identification and management of NDs are also deliberated. Furthermore, a detailed insight of the ongoing clinical trials and currently marketed products for the treatment of NDs is provided in this manuscript.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dur E Nayab
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, 45320, Pakistan
| | - Fakhar Ud Din
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, 45320, Pakistan.
- Nanomedicine Research Group, Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Quaid- i-Azam University, Islamabad, 45320, Pakistan.
| | - Hussain Ali
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, 45320, Pakistan.
| | - Warda Arooj Kausar
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, 45320, Pakistan
| | - Shaiza Urooj
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, 45320, Pakistan
- Nanomedicine Research Group, Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Quaid- i-Azam University, Islamabad, 45320, Pakistan
| | - Maryam Zafar
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, 45320, Pakistan
| | - Ibrahim Khan
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, 45320, Pakistan
| | - Kanwal Shabbir
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, 45320, Pakistan
- Nanomedicine Research Group, Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Quaid- i-Azam University, Islamabad, 45320, Pakistan
| | - Gul Majid Khan
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, 45320, Pakistan
- Nanomedicine Research Group, Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Quaid- i-Azam University, Islamabad, 45320, Pakistan
- Islamia College University, Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
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Balachandran AA, Raguraman P, Rahimizadeh K, Veedu RN. Splice-Switching Antisense Oligonucleotides Targeting Extra- and Intracellular Domains of Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor in Cancer Cells. Biomedicines 2023; 11:3299. [PMID: 38137520 PMCID: PMC10741442 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11123299] [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: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is one of the leading causes of death globally. Epidermal growth factor receptor is one of the proteins involved in cancer cell proliferation, differentiation, and invasion. Antisense oligonucleotides are chemical nucleic acids that bind to target messenger ribonucleic acid and modulate its expression. Herein, we demonstrate the efficacy of splice-modulating antisense oligonucleotides to target specific exons in the extracellular (exon 3) and intracellular (exon 18, 21) domains of epidermal growth factor receptor. These antisense oligonucleotides were synthesized as 25mer 2'-O methyl phosphorothioate-modified ribonucleic acids that bind to complementary specific regions in respective exons. We found that PNAT524, PNAT525, PNAT576, and PNAT578 effectively skipped exon 3, exon 18, and exon 21 in glioblastoma, liver cancer, and breast cancer cell lines. PNAT578 treatment also skipped partial exon 19, complete exon 20, and partial exon 21 in addition to complete exon 21 skipping. We also found that a cocktail of PNAT576 and PNAT578 antisense oligonucleotides performed better than their individual counterparts. The migration potential of glioblastoma cancer cells was reduced to a greater extent after treatment with these antisense oligonucleotides. We firmly believe that using these splice-modulating antisense oligonucleotides in combination with existing EGFR-targeted therapies could improve therapeutic outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akilandeswari Ashwini Balachandran
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Prithi Raguraman
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Kamal Rahimizadeh
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Rakesh N. Veedu
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
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Gao X, Diep JK, Norris DA, Yu RZ, Geary RS. Predicting the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of antisense oligonucleotides: an overview of various approaches and opportunities for PBPK/PD modelling. Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol 2023; 19:979-990. [PMID: 37970635 DOI: 10.1080/17425255.2023.2283524] [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: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Advances in research and development (R&D) have enabled many approvals of antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs). Its administration expanded from systemic to local for treating various diseases, where predicting target tissue exposures and pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD) in human can be critical. AREAS COVERED A literature search for PBPK/PD models of ASOs was conducted using PubMed and Embase (to 1 April 2023). ASO PK and PD in animals and humans and modeling approaches including physiologically based (PB) are summarized; and relevance and impacts of PBPK/PD modeling are assessed. EXPERT OPINION Allometric scaling and compartmental PK/PD modeling have been successful to predict human ASO PK/PD, addressing most R&D needs. Understanding tissue distribution of ASOs can be crucial for their efficacy and safety especially for intrathecal (IT), pulmonary, or other local routes. PBPK/PD modeling is expected to improve such understanding, for which, efforts have been sporadic. However, developing a PBPK/PD model requires careful review of known biology/pharmacology and thoughtful experimental designs. Resulting models have the potential to predict target/specified tissue exposures and responses in human adults and pediatrics. Ultimately, a PBPK/PD modeling approach can lead to more efficient and rational clinical development, resulting in well-informed decision making and a shortened timeline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Gao
- Preclinical Development, Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Inc, Carlsbad, CA, USA
| | - John K Diep
- Preclinical Development, Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Inc, Carlsbad, CA, USA
| | - Daniel A Norris
- Preclinical Development, Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Inc, Carlsbad, CA, USA
| | - Rosie Z Yu
- Preclinical Development, Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Inc, Carlsbad, CA, USA
| | - Richard S Geary
- Preclinical Development, Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Inc, Carlsbad, CA, USA
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Man HSJ, Moosa VA, Singh A, Wu L, Granton JT, Juvet SC, Hoang CD, de Perrot M. Unlocking the potential of RNA-based therapeutics in the lung: current status and future directions. Front Genet 2023; 14:1281538. [PMID: 38075698 PMCID: PMC10703483 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2023.1281538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Awareness of RNA-based therapies has increased after the widespread adoption of mRNA vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 during the COVID-19 pandemic. These mRNA vaccines had a significant impact on reducing lung disease and mortality. They highlighted the potential for rapid development of RNA-based therapies and advances in nanoparticle delivery systems. Along with the rapid advancement in RNA biology, including the description of noncoding RNAs as major products of the genome, this success presents an opportunity to highlight the potential of RNA as a therapeutic modality. Here, we review the expanding compendium of RNA-based therapies, their mechanisms of action and examples of application in the lung. The airways provide a convenient conduit for drug delivery to the lungs with decreased systemic exposure. This review will also describe other delivery methods, including local delivery to the pleura and delivery vehicles that can target the lung after systemic administration, each providing access options that are advantageous for a specific application. We present clinical trials of RNA-based therapy in lung disease and potential areas for future directions. This review aims to provide an overview that will bring together researchers and clinicians to advance this burgeoning field.
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Affiliation(s)
- H. S. Jeffrey Man
- Temerty Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Medical Science, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Latner Thoracic Research Laboratories, Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Division of Respirology and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Vaneeza A. Moosa
- Latner Thoracic Research Laboratories, Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Toronto General Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Anand Singh
- Thoracic Surgery Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Licun Wu
- Latner Thoracic Research Laboratories, Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Toronto General Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - John T. Granton
- Division of Respirology and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Stephen C. Juvet
- Temerty Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Medical Science, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Latner Thoracic Research Laboratories, Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Division of Respirology and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Chuong D. Hoang
- Thoracic Surgery Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Marc de Perrot
- Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Latner Thoracic Research Laboratories, Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Toronto General Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Collotta D, Bertocchi I, Chiapello E, Collino M. Antisense oligonucleotides: a novel Frontier in pharmacological strategy. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1304342. [PMID: 38044945 PMCID: PMC10690781 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1304342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) are short single stranded synthetic RNA or DNA molecules, whereas double-stranded RNA nucleotide sequences are called small interfering RNA (siRNA). ASOs bind to complementary nucleic acid sequences impacting the associated functions of the targeted nucleic acids. They represent an emerging class of drugs that, through a revolutionary mechanism of action, aim to directly regulate disease-causing genes and their variants, providing an alternative tool to traditional "protein-specific" therapies. The majority of the ASOs are designed to treat orphan genetic disorders that in most of the cases are seriously disabling and still lacking an adequate therapy. In order to translate ASOs into clinical success, constant technological advances have been instrumental in overcoming several pharmacological, toxicological and formulation limitations. Accordingly, chemical structures have been recently implemented and new bio-conjugation and nanocarriers formulation strategies explored. The aim of this work is to offer an overview of the antisense technology with a comparative analysis of the oligonucleotides approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA).
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Affiliation(s)
- D. Collotta
- Department of Neuroscience Rita Levi Montalcini, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - I. Bertocchi
- Department of Neuroscience Rita Levi Montalcini, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi (NICO), University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - E. Chiapello
- Department of Neuroscience Rita Levi Montalcini, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - M. Collino
- Department of Neuroscience Rita Levi Montalcini, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
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Dave BP, Shah YB, Maheshwari KG, Mansuri KA, Prajapati BS, Postwala HI, Chorawala MR. Pathophysiological Aspects and Therapeutic Armamentarium of Alzheimer's Disease: Recent Trends and Future Development. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2023; 43:3847-3884. [PMID: 37725199 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-023-01408-7] [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: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the primary cause of dementia and is characterized by the death of brain cells due to the accumulation of insoluble amyloid plaques, hyperphosphorylation of tau protein, and the formation of neurofibrillary tangles within the cells. AD is also associated with other pathologies such as neuroinflammation, dysfunction of synaptic connections and circuits, disorders in mitochondrial function and energy production, epigenetic changes, and abnormalities in the vascular system. Despite extensive research conducted over the last hundred years, little is established about what causes AD or how to effectively treat it. Given the severity of the disease and the increasing number of affected individuals, there is a critical need to discover effective medications for AD. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved several new drug molecules for AD management since 2003, but these drugs only provide temporary relief of symptoms and do not address the underlying causes of the disease. Currently, available medications focus on correcting the neurotransmitter disruption observed in AD, including cholinesterase inhibitors and an antagonist of the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor, which temporarily alleviates the signs of dementia but does not prevent or reverse the course of AD. Research towards disease-modifying AD treatments is currently underway, including gene therapy, lipid nanoparticles, and dendrimer-based therapy. These innovative approaches aim to target the underlying pathological processes of AD rather than just managing the symptoms. This review discusses the novel aspects of pathogenesis involved in the causation of AD of AD and in recent developments in the therapeutic armamentarium for the treatment of AD such as gene therapy, lipid nanoparticles, and dendrimer-based therapy, and many more.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhavarth P Dave
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy Practice, L. M. College of Pharmacy, Opp. Gujarat University, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, 380009, India
| | - Yesha B Shah
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy Practice, L. M. College of Pharmacy, Opp. Gujarat University, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, 380009, India
| | - Kunal G Maheshwari
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy Practice, L. M. College of Pharmacy, Opp. Gujarat University, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, 380009, India
| | - Kaif A Mansuri
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy Practice, L. M. College of Pharmacy, Opp. Gujarat University, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, 380009, India
| | - Bhadrawati S Prajapati
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy Practice, L. M. College of Pharmacy, Opp. Gujarat University, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, 380009, India
| | - Humzah I Postwala
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy Practice, L. M. College of Pharmacy, Opp. Gujarat University, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, 380009, India
| | - Mehul R Chorawala
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy Practice, L. M. College of Pharmacy, Opp. Gujarat University, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, 380009, India.
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Adewunmi O, Shen Y, Zhang XHF, Rosen JM. Targeted Inhibition of lncRNA Malat1 Alters the Tumor Immune Microenvironment in Preclinical Syngeneic Mouse Models of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. Cancer Immunol Res 2023; 11:1462-1479. [PMID: 37603945 PMCID: PMC10618655 DOI: 10.1158/2326-6066.cir-23-0045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023]
Abstract
Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNA) play an important role in gene regulation in both normal tissues and cancer. Targeting lncRNAs is a promising therapeutic approach that has become feasible through the development of gapmer antisense oligonucleotides (ASO). Metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript (Malat1) is an abundant lncRNA whose expression is upregulated in several cancers. Although Malat1 increases the migratory and invasive properties of tumor cells, its role in the tumor microenvironment (TME) is still not well defined. We explored the connection between Malat1 and the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) using several immune-competent preclinical syngeneic Tp53-null triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) mouse models that mimic the heterogeneity and immunosuppressive TME found in human breast cancer. Using a Malat1 ASO, we were able to knockdown Malat1 RNA expression resulting in a delay in primary tumor growth, decreased proliferation, and increased apoptosis. In addition, immunophenotyping of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes revealed that Malat1 inhibition altered the TIME, with a decrease in immunosuppressive tumor-associated macrophages (TAM) and myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC) as well as an increase in cytotoxic CD8+ T cells. Malat1 depletion in tumor cells, TAMs, and MDSCs decreased immunosuppressive cytokine/chemokine secretion whereas Malat1 inhibition in T cells increased inflammatory secretions and T-cell proliferation. Combination of a Malat1 ASO with chemotherapy or immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) improved the treatment responses in a preclinical model. These studies highlight the immunostimulatory effects of Malat1 inhibition in TNBC, the benefit of a Malat1 ASO therapeutic, and its potential use in combination with chemotherapies and immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oluwatoyosi Adewunmi
- Translational Biology and Molecular Medicine Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Yichao Shen
- Integrative Molecular and Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Xiang H.-F. Zhang
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
- Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center, Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Jeffrey M. Rosen
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
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Richard I. Basic notions about gene therapy from the nucleic acid perspective and applications in a pediatric disease: Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Arch Pediatr 2023; 30:8S2-8S11. [PMID: 38043979 DOI: 10.1016/s0929-693x(23)00221-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
Gene therapy involves the introduction of genetic material into cells as a therapeutic molecule to cure a disease. Through the transfer of specific nucleic acid to the target tissue, gene expression can be downregulated, augmented, or corrected thanks to the nucleic acid sequence as a support of gene expression. This is achieved through molecular interactions according to the sequence arrangement or the secondary structure of the molecules or through their catalytic properties. Over the past two decades, the rapid advances of knowledge and technologies in gene therapy have led to the development of different strategies and to the extension of its use to numerous indications, including certain cancers. Major success has been achieved in clinical trials and the field of gene therapy is booming. Several gene therapy products are now on the market in Europe, the United States, and China. In this review, we cover the basic principles of gene therapy and the characteristics of the main vectors used to transfer genetic material into the cell. As an example of applications, we address the various strategies applied to a rare pediatric muscle disease: Duchenne muscular dystrophy. © 2023 Published by Elsevier Masson SAS on behalf of French Society of Pediatrics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabelle Richard
- Genethon, 91000, Evry, France; Université Paris-Saclay, Univ. Evry, Inserm, Integrare research unit UMR_S951, 91000, Evry-Courcouronnes, France; Atamyo Therapeutics, 1, bis rue de l'internationale, Evry, France.
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48
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Li Z, Tong F, Xiao L, Larson NR, Zhou X, Zhang Y, Immel-Brown JP, Bou-Assaf GM. Establishing stereochemical comparability in phosphorothioate oligonucleotides with nuclease P1 digestion coupled with LCMS analysis. Analyst 2023; 148:5361-5365. [PMID: 37755232 DOI: 10.1039/d3an01392h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
Stereochemical comparability is critical for ensuring manufacturing consistency in therapeutic phosphorothioate oligonucleotides. Currently, analytical methods for this assessment are limited. We hereby report on a novel protocol capable of detecting a stereochemistry change in a single phosphorothioate linkage by employing nuclease P1 digestion of the oligonucleotide with subsequent LCMS analysis of the resulting fragments. The method proves valuable for establishing stereochemical comparability and for ensuring manufacturing consistency of oligonucleotide therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zifan Li
- Pharmaceutical Operations & Technology, Biogen, 225 Binney Street, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA.
| | - Fei Tong
- Pharmaceutical Operations & Technology, Biogen, 225 Binney Street, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA.
| | - Li Xiao
- Pharmaceutical Operations & Technology, Biogen, 225 Binney Street, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA.
| | - Nicholas R Larson
- Pharmaceutical Operations & Technology, Biogen, 225 Binney Street, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA.
| | - Xuan Zhou
- Pharmaceutical Operations & Technology, Biogen, 225 Binney Street, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA.
| | - Yueheng Zhang
- Pharmaceutical Operations & Technology, Biogen, 225 Binney Street, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA.
| | - Jonas P Immel-Brown
- Pharmaceutical Operations & Technology, Biogen, 225 Binney Street, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA.
| | - George M Bou-Assaf
- Pharmaceutical Operations & Technology, Biogen, 225 Binney Street, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA.
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49
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Ozeri-Galai E, Friedman L, Barchad-Avitzur O, Markovetz MR, Boone W, Rouillard KR, Stampfer CD, Oren YS, Hill DB, Kerem B, Hart G. Delivery Characterization of SPL84 Inhaled Antisense Oligonucleotide Drug for 3849 + 10 kb C- > T Cystic Fibrosis Patients. Nucleic Acid Ther 2023; 33:306-318. [PMID: 37643307 DOI: 10.1089/nat.2023.0015] [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: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent advances in the therapeutic potential of RNA-related treatments, specifically for antisense oligonucleotide (ASO)-based drugs, have led to increased numbers of ASO regulatory approvals. In this study, we focus on SPL84, an inhaled ASO-based drug, developed for the treatment of the pulmonary disease cystic fibrosis (CF). Pulmonary drug delivery is challenging, due to a variety of biological, physical, chemical, and structural barriers, especially when targeting the cell nucleus. The distribution of SPL84 throughout the lungs, penetration into the epithelial cells and nucleus, and structural stability are critical parameters that will impact drug efficacy in a clinical setting. In this study, we demonstrate broad distribution, as well as cell and nucleus penetration of SPL84 in mouse and monkey lungs. In vivo and in vitro studies confirmed the stability of our inhaled drug in CF patient-derived mucus and in lung lysosomal extracts. The mobility of SPL84 through hyperconcentrated mucus was also demonstrated. Our results, supported by a promising preclinical pharmacological effect of full restoration of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator channel activity, emphasize the high potential of SPL84 as an effective drug for the treatment of CF patients. In addition, successfully tackling the lung distribution of SPL84 offers immense opportunities for further development of SpliSense's inhaled ASO-based drugs for unmet needs in pulmonary diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lital Friedman
- SpliSense, Biohouse Labs, Haddasah Ein Kerem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | | | | | - William Boone
- Marsico Lung Institute, UNC Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | | | | | - Yifat S Oren
- SpliSense, Biohouse Labs, Haddasah Ein Kerem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - David B Hill
- Marsico Lung Institute, UNC Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, UNC Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Batsheva Kerem
- SpliSense, Biohouse Labs, Haddasah Ein Kerem, Jerusalem, Israel
- Department of Genetics, The Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Gili Hart
- SpliSense, Biohouse Labs, Haddasah Ein Kerem, Jerusalem, Israel
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50
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Bakrania A, Mo Y, Zheng G, Bhat M. RNA nanomedicine in liver diseases. Hepatology 2023:01515467-990000000-00569. [PMID: 37725757 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Abstract
The remarkable impact of RNA nanomedicine during the COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated the expansive therapeutic potential of this field in diverse disease contexts. In recent years, RNA nanomedicine targeting the liver has been paradigm-shifting in the management of metabolic diseases such as hyperoxaluria and amyloidosis. RNA nanomedicine has significant potential in the management of liver diseases, where optimal management would benefit from targeted delivery, doses titrated to liver metabolism, and personalized therapy based on the specific site of interest. In this review, we discuss in-depth the different types of RNA and nanocarriers used for liver targeting along with their specific applications in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, liver fibrosis, and liver cancers. We further highlight the strategies for cell-specific delivery and future perspectives in this field of research with the emergence of small activating RNA, circular RNA, and RNA base editing approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita Bakrania
- Department of Medicine, Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Ajmera Transplant Program, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Yulin Mo
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Gang Zheng
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mamatha Bhat
- Department of Medicine, Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Ajmera Transplant Program, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, University Health Network and University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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