1
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Mashima R, Takada S, Miyamoto Y. RNA-Based Therapeutic Technology. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15230. [PMID: 37894911 PMCID: PMC10607345 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242015230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
RNA-based therapy has been an expanding area of clinical research since the COVID-19 outbreak. Often, its comparison has been made to DNA-based gene therapy, such as adeno-associated virus- and lentivirus-mediated therapy. These DNA-based therapies show persistent expression, with maximized therapeutic efficacy. However, accumulating data indicate that proper control of gene expression is occasionally required. For example, in cancer immunotherapy, cytokine response syndrome is detrimental for host animals, while excess activation of the immune system induces supraphysiological cytokines. RNA-based therapy seems to be a rather mild therapy, and it has room to fit unmet medical needs, whereas current DNA-based therapy has unclear issues. This review focused on RNA-based therapy for cancer immunotherapy, hematopoietic disorders, and inherited disorders, which have received attention for possible clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryuichi Mashima
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, National Center for Child Health and Development, 2-10-1 Okura, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 157-8535, Japan
| | - Shuji Takada
- Department of Systems BioMedicine, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, 2-10-1 Okura, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 157-8535, Japan
| | - Yoshitaka Miyamoto
- Department of Maternal-Fetal Biology, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, 2-10-1 Okura, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 157-8535, Japan
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2
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Zakaria NA, Bahar R, Abdullah WZ, Mohamed Yusoff AA, Shamsuddin S, Abdul Wahab R, Johan MF. Genetic Manipulation Strategies for β-Thalassemia: A Review. Front Pediatr 2022; 10:901605. [PMID: 35783328 PMCID: PMC9240386 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2022.901605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Thalassemias are monogenic hematologic diseases that are classified as α- or β-thalassemia according to its quantitative abnormalities of adult α- or β-globin chains. β-thalassemia has widely spread throughout the world especially in Mediterranean countries, the Middle East, Central Asia, India, Southern China, and the Far East as well as countries along the north coast of Africa and in South America. The one and the only cure for β-thalassemia is allogenic hematopoietic stem cell transplantations (HSCT). Nevertheless, the difficulty to find matched donors has hindered the availability of this therapeutic option. Therefore, this present review explored the alternatives for β-thalassemia treatment such as RNA manipulation therapy, splice-switching, genome editing and generation of corrected induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). Manipulation of β-globin RNA is mediated by antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) or splice-switching oligonucleotides (SSOs), which redirect pre-mRNA splicing to significantly restore correct β-globin pre-mRNA splicing and gene product in cultured erythropoietic cells. Zinc finger nucleases (ZFNs), transcription activator-like effector nucleases (TALENs) and clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated 9 (Cas9) are designer proteins that can alter the genome precisely by creating specific DNA double-strand breaks. The treatment of β-thalassemia patient-derived iPSCs with TALENs have been found to correct the β-globin gene mutations, implying that TALENs could be used as a therapy option for β-thalassemia. Additionally, CRISPR technologies using Cas9 have been used to fix mutations in the β-globin gene in cultured cells as well as induction of hereditary persistence of fetal hemoglobin (HPFH), and α-globin gene deletions have proposed a possible therapeutic option for β-thalassemia. Overall, the accumulated research evidence demonstrated the potential of ASOs-mediated aberrant splicing correction of β-thalassemia mutations and the advancements of genome therapy approaches using ZFNs, TALENs, and CRISPR/Cas9 that provided insights in finding the permanent cure of β-thalassemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nur Atikah Zakaria
- Department of Haematology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Malaysia
| | - Rosnah Bahar
- Department of Haematology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Malaysia
| | - Wan Zaidah Abdullah
- Department of Haematology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Malaysia
| | - Abdul Aziz Mohamed Yusoff
- Department of Neurosciences, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Malaysia
| | - Shaharum Shamsuddin
- School of Health Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Malaysia.,Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine (INFORMM), Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Malaysia.,Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM)-RIKEN Interdisciplinary Collaboration for Advanced Sciences (URICAS), Penang, Malaysia
| | - Ridhwan Abdul Wahab
- International Medical School, Management and Science University, Shah Alam, Malaysia
| | - Muhammad Farid Johan
- Department of Haematology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Malaysia
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3
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Gadgil A, Raczyńska KD. U7 snRNA: A tool for gene therapy. J Gene Med 2021; 23:e3321. [PMID: 33590603 PMCID: PMC8243935 DOI: 10.1002/jgm.3321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Revised: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Most U-rich small nuclear ribonucleoproteins (snRNPs) are complexes that mediate the splicing of pre-mRNAs. U7 snRNP is an exception in that it is not involved in splicing but is a key factor in the unique 3' end processing of replication-dependent histone mRNAs. However, by introducing controlled changes in the U7 snRNA histone binding sequence and in the Sm motif, it can be used as an effective tool for gene therapy. The modified U7 snRNP (U7 Sm OPT) is thus not involved in the processing of replication-dependent histone pre-mRNA but targets splicing by inducing efficient skipping or inclusion of selected exons. U7 Sm OPT is of therapeutic importance in diseases that are an outcome of splicing defects, such as myotonic dystrophy, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, β-thalassemia, HIV-1 infection and spinal muscular atrophy. The benefits of using U7 Sm OPT for gene therapy are its compact size, ability to accumulate in the nucleus without causing any toxic effects in the cells, and no immunoreactivity. The risk of transgene misregulation by using U7 Sm OPT is also low because it is involved in correcting the expression of an endogenous gene controlled by its own regulatory elements. Altogether, using U7 Sm OPT as a tool in gene therapy can ensure lifelong treatment, whereas an oligonucleotide or other drug/compound would require repeated administration. It would thus be strategic to harness these unique properties of U7 snRNP and deploy it as a tool in gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankur Gadgil
- Department of Gene Expression, Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of BiologyAdam Mickiewicz UniversityPoznanPoland
- Center for Advanced TechnologyAdam Mickiewicz UniversityPoznanPoland
| | - Katarzyna Dorota Raczyńska
- Department of Gene Expression, Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of BiologyAdam Mickiewicz UniversityPoznanPoland
- Center for Advanced TechnologyAdam Mickiewicz UniversityPoznanPoland
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4
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d'Arqom A, Nualkaew T, Jearawiriyapaisarn N, Kole R, Svasti S. Engineered U7 Small Nuclear RNA Restores Correct β-Globin Pre-mRNA Splicing in Mouse β IVS2-654-Thalassemic Erythroid Progenitor Cells. Hum Gene Ther 2020; 32:473-480. [PMID: 32977730 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2020.145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Restoration of correct splicing of βIVS2-654-globin pre-mRNA was previously accomplished in erythroid cells from β-thalassemia/HbE patients by an engineered U7 small nuclear RNA (snRNA) that carried a sequence targeted to the cryptic branch point and an exonic splicing enhancer, U7.BP+623 snRNA. In this study, this approach was tested in thalassemic mice carrying the βIVS2-654 mutation. While correction of βIVS2-654 pre-mRNA splicing was achieved in erythroid progenitors transduced with a lentiviral vector carrying the U7.BP+623 snRNA, a high level of truncated U7.BP+623 snRNA was also observed. The discrepancy of processing of the modified U7 snRNA in human and mouse constructs hamper the evaluation of pathologic improvement in mouse model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annette d'Arqom
- Graduate Program in Molecular Medicine.,Thalassemia Research Center, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand.,Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | - Tiwaporn Nualkaew
- Thalassemia Research Center, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Natee Jearawiriyapaisarn
- Thalassemia Research Center, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Ryszard Kole
- Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Saovaros Svasti
- Thalassemia Research Center, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand.,Department of Biochemistry; Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
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5
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Abstract
β-thalassemia is caused by mutations in the β-globin gene which diminishes or abolishes β-globin chain production. This reduction causes an imbalance of the α/β-globin chain ratio and contributes to the pathogenesis of the disease. Several approaches to reduce the imbalance of the α/β ratio using several nucleic acid-based technologies such as RNAi, lentiviral mediated gene therapy, splice switching oligonucleotides (SSOs) and gene editing technology have been investigated extensively. These approaches aim to reduce excess free α-globin, either by reducing the α-globin chain, restoring β-globin expression and reactivating γ-globin expression, leading a reduced disease severity, treatment necessity, treatment interval, and disease complications, thus, increasing the life quality of the patients and alleviating economic burden. Therefore, nucleic acid-based therapy might become a potential targeted therapy for β-thalassemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annette d'Arqom
- Graduate Program in Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Department of Pharmacology and Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia
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6
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Nualkaew T, Jearawiriyapaisarn N, Hongeng S, Fucharoen S, Kole R, Svasti S. Restoration of correct β IVS2-654-globin mRNA splicing and HbA production by engineered U7 snRNA in β-thalassaemia/HbE erythroid cells. Sci Rep 2019; 9:7672. [PMID: 31113996 PMCID: PMC6529457 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-43964-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2018] [Accepted: 05/02/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
A cytosine to thymine mutation at nucleotide 654 of human β-globin intron 2 (βIVS2-654) is one of the most common mutations causing β-thalassaemia in Chinese and Southeast Asians. This mutation results in aberrant β-globin pre-mRNA splicing and prevents synthesis of β-globin protein. Splicing correction using synthetic splice-switching oligonucleotides (SSOs) has been shown to restore expression of the β-globin protein, but to maintain therapeutically relevant levels of β-globin it would require lifelong administration. Here, we demonstrate long-term splicing correction using U7 snRNA lentiviral vectors engineered to target several pre-mRNA splicing elements on the βIVS2-654-globin pre-mRNA such as cryptic 3' splice site, aberrant 5' splice site, cryptic branch point and an exonic splicing enhancer. A double-target engineered U7 snRNAs targeted to the cryptic branch point and an exonic splicing enhancer, U7.BP + 623, was the most effective in a model cell line, HeLa IVS2-654. Moreover, the therapeutic potential of the vector was demonstrated in erythroid progenitor cells derived from βIVS2-654-thalassaemia/HbE patients, which showed restoration of correctly spliced β-globin mRNA and led to haemoglobin A synthesis, and consequently improved thalassaemic erythroid cell pathology. These results demonstrate proof of concept of using the engineered U7 snRNA lentiviral vector for treatment of β-thalassaemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiwaporn Nualkaew
- Thalassemia Research Center, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Natee Jearawiriyapaisarn
- Thalassemia Research Center, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Suradej Hongeng
- Departments of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Suthat Fucharoen
- Thalassemia Research Center, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | | | - Saovaros Svasti
- Thalassemia Research Center, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. .,Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.
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7
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Preedagasamzin S, Nualkaew T, Pongrujikorn T, Jinawath N, Kole R, Fucharoen S, Jearawiriyapaisarn N, Svasti S. Engineered U7 snRNA mediates sustained splicing correction in erythroid cells from β-thalassemia/HbE patients. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2018; 499:86-92. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2018.03.102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2018] [Accepted: 03/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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8
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Chapin J, Giardina PJ. Thalassemia Syndromes. Hematology 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-323-35762-3.00040-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
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9
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Phanthong P, Borwornpinyo S, Kitiyanant N, Jearawiriyapaisarn N, Nuntakarn L, Saetan J, Nualkaew T, Sa-Ngiamsuntorn K, Anurathapan U, Dinnyes A, Kitiyanant Y, Hongeng S. Enhancement of β-Globin Gene Expression in Thalassemic IVS2-654 Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Erythroid Cells by Modified U7 snRNA. Stem Cells Transl Med 2017; 6:1059-1069. [PMID: 28213976 PMCID: PMC5442829 DOI: 10.1002/sctm.16-0121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2016] [Revised: 11/27/2016] [Accepted: 12/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The therapeutic use of patient‐specific induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) is emerging as a potential treatment of β‐thalassemia. Ideally, patient‐specific iPSCs would be genetically corrected by various approaches to treat β‐thalassemia including lentiviral gene transfer, lentivirus‐delivered shRNA, and gene editing. These corrected iPSCs would be subsequently differentiated into hematopoietic stem cells and transplanted back into the same patient. In this article, we present a proof of principle study for disease modeling and screening using iPSCs to test the potential use of the modified U7 small nuclear (sn) RNA to correct a splice defect in IVS2‐654 β‐thalassemia. In this case, the aberration results from a mutation in the human β‐globin intron 2 causing an aberrant splicing of β‐globin pre‐mRNA and preventing synthesis of functional β‐globin protein. The iPSCs (derived from mesenchymal stromal cells from a patient with IVS2‐654 β‐thalassemia/hemoglobin (Hb) E) were transduced with a lentivirus carrying a modified U7 snRNA targeting an IVS2‐654 β‐globin pre‐mRNA in order to restore the correct splicing. Erythroblasts differentiated from the transduced iPSCs expressed high level of correctly spliced β‐globin mRNA suggesting that the modified U7 snRNA was expressed and mediated splicing correction of IVS2‐654 β‐globin pre‐mRNA in these cells. Moreover, a less active apoptosis cascade process was observed in the corrected cells at transcription level. This study demonstrated the potential use of a genetically modified U7 snRNA with patient‐specific iPSCs for the partial restoration of the aberrant splicing process of β‐thalassemia. Stem Cells Translational Medicine2017;6:1059–1069
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Suparerk Borwornpinyo
- Biotechnology.,Excellent Center for Drug Discovery, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | | | | | | | - Jirawat Saetan
- Anatomy Department, Faculty of Science, Prince of Songkla University, Songkhla, Thailand
| | | | | | - Usanarat Anurathapan
- Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Andras Dinnyes
- Biotalentum Ltd, Godollo, Hungary.,Molecular Animal Biotechnology Laboratory, Szent Istvan University, Godollo, Hungary
| | - Yindee Kitiyanant
- Departments of Anatomy.,Stem Cell Research Group.,Reproductive Biology Research Group, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Suradej Hongeng
- Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
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10
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Viral Vector-Mediated Antisense Therapy for Genetic Diseases. Genes (Basel) 2017; 8:genes8020051. [PMID: 28134780 PMCID: PMC5333040 DOI: 10.3390/genes8020051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2016] [Revised: 01/04/2017] [Accepted: 01/17/2017] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
RNA plays complex roles in normal health and disease and is becoming an important target for therapeutic intervention; accordingly, therapeutic strategies that modulate RNA function have gained great interest over the past decade. Antisense oligonucleotides (AOs) are perhaps the most promising strategy to modulate RNA expression through a variety of post binding events such as gene silencing through degradative or non-degradative mechanisms, or splicing modulation which has recently demonstrated promising results. However, AO technology still faces issues like poor cellular-uptake, low efficacy in target tissues and relatively rapid clearance from the circulation which means repeated injections are essential to complete therapeutic efficacy. To overcome these limitations, viral vectors encoding small nuclear RNAs have been engineered to shuttle antisense sequences into cells, allowing appropriate subcellular localization with pre-mRNAs and permanent correction. In this review, we outline the different strategies for antisense therapy mediated by viral vectors and provide examples of each approach. We also address the advantages and limitations of viral vector use, with an emphasis on their clinical application.
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11
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Double-target Antisense U1snRNAs Correct Mis-splicing Due to c.639+861C>T and c.639+919G>A GLA Deep Intronic Mutations. MOLECULAR THERAPY-NUCLEIC ACIDS 2016; 5:e380. [PMID: 27779620 PMCID: PMC5095687 DOI: 10.1038/mtna.2016.88] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2016] [Accepted: 08/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Fabry disease is a rare X-linked lysosomal storage disorder caused by deficiency of the α-galactosidase A (α-Gal A) enzyme, which is encoded by the GLA gene. GLA transcription in humans produces a major mRNA encoding α-Gal A and a minor mRNA of unknown function, which retains a 57-nucleotide-long cryptic exon between exons 4 and 5, bearing a premature termination codon. NM_000169.2:c.639+861C>T and NM_000169.2:c.639+919G>A GLA deep intronic mutations have been described to cause Fabry disease by inducing overexpression of the alternatively spliced mRNA, along with a dramatic decrease in the major one. Here, we built a wild-type GLA minigene and two minigenes that carry mutations c.639+861C>T and c.639+919G>A. Once transfected into cells, the minigenes recapitulate the molecular patterns observed in patients, at the mRNA, protein, and enzymatic level. We constructed a set of specific double-target U1asRNAs to correct c.639+861C>T and c.639+919G>A GLA mutations. Efficacy of U1asRNAs in inducing the skipping of the cryptic exon was evaluated upon their transient co-transfection with the minigenes in COS-1 cells, by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), western blot analysis, and α-Gal A enzyme assay. We identified a set of U1asRNAs that efficiently restored α-Gal A enzyme activity and the correct splicing pathways in reporter minigenes. We also identified a unique U1asRNA correcting both mutations as efficently as the mutation-specific U1asRNAs. Our study proves that an exon skipping-based approach recovering α-Gal A activity in the c.639+861C>T and c.639+919G>A GLA mutations is active.
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12
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Abstract
β-thalassemia is an inherited disorder due to mutations found in the β-globin gene, leading to anemia and requiring sporadic or chronic blood transfusions for survival. Without proper chelation, β-thalassemia results in iron overload. Ineffective erythropoiesis can lead to iron overload even in untransfused patients who are affected by β-thalassemia intermedia. Better understanding of the molecular biologic aspects of this disorder has led to improvements in population screening and prenatal diagnosis, which, in turn, have led to dramatic reductions in the number of children born with β-thalassemia major in the Mediterranean littoral. However, as a consequence of decreases in neonatal and childhood mortality in other geographical areas, β-thalassemia has become a worldwide clinical problem. A number of unsolved pathophysiological issues remain, such as ineffective erythropoieis, abnormal iron absorption, oxidative stress, splenomegaly and thrombosis. In the last few years, novel studies have the potential to introduce new therapeutic approaches that might reduce these problems and limit the need for blood transfusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Rivella
- Weill College Medical Center, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology, Oncology, 515 E 71st Street, S702, New York, NY 10021, USA, Tel.: +1 212 746 4941, ,
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13
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Havens MA, Duelli DM, Hastings ML. Targeting RNA splicing for disease therapy. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. RNA 2013; 4:247-66. [PMID: 23512601 PMCID: PMC3631270 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 128] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Splicing of pre-messenger RNA into mature messenger RNA is an essential step for the expression of most genes in higher eukaryotes. Defects in this process typically affect cellular function and can have pathological consequences. Many human genetic diseases are caused by mutations that cause splicing defects. Furthermore, a number of diseases are associated with splicing defects that are not attributed to overt mutations. Targeting splicing directly to correct disease-associated aberrant splicing is a logical approach to therapy. Splicing is a favorable intervention point for disease therapeutics, because it is an early step in gene expression and does not alter the genome. Significant advances have been made in the development of approaches to manipulate splicing for therapy. Splicing can be manipulated with a number of tools including antisense oligonucleotides, modified small nuclear RNAs (snRNAs), trans-splicing, and small molecule compounds, all of which have been used to increase specific alternatively spliced isoforms or to correct aberrant gene expression resulting from gene mutations that alter splicing. Here we describe clinically relevant splicing defects in disease states, the current tools used to target and alter splicing, specific mutations and diseases that are being targeted using splice-modulating approaches, and emerging therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mallory A. Havens
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science. North Chicago, IL, 60064, USA. No conflicts of interest
| | - Dominik M. Duelli
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, 60064, USA. No conflicts of interest
| | - Michelle L. Hastings
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science. North Chicago, IL, 60064, USA, Phone: 847-578-8517 Fax: 847-578-3253. No conflicts of interest
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14
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Raja JV, Rachchh MA, Gokani RH. Recent advances in gene therapy for thalassemia. J Pharm Bioallied Sci 2012; 4:194-201. [PMID: 22923960 PMCID: PMC3425167 DOI: 10.4103/0975-7406.99020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2011] [Revised: 10/20/2011] [Accepted: 12/10/2011] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Thalassemias are genetically transmitted disorders. Depending upon whether the genetic defects or deletion lies in transmission of α or β globin chain gene, thalassemias are classified into α and β-thalassemias. Thus, thalassemias could be cured by introducing or correcting a gene into the hematopoietic compartment or a single stem cell. Initial attempts at gene transfer have proved unsuccessful due to limitations of available gene transfer vectors. The present review described the newer approaches to overcome these limitations, includes the introduction of lentiviral vectors. New approaches have also focused on targeting the specific mutation in the globin genes, correcting the DNA sequence or manipulating the development in DNA translocation and splicing to restore globin chain synthesis. This review mainly discusses the gene therapy strategies for the thalassemias, including the use of lentiviral vectors, generation of induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells, gene targeting, splice-switching and stop codon readthrough.
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Affiliation(s)
- J V Raja
- Department of Pharmacology, S. J. Thakkar Pharmacy College, Rajkot, Gujarat, India
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15
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Nlend Nlend R, Meyer K, Schümperli D. Repair of pre-mRNA splicing: prospects for a therapy for spinal muscular atrophy. RNA Biol 2010; 7:430-40. [PMID: 20523126 DOI: 10.4161/rna.7.4.12206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent analyses of complete genomes have revealed that alternative splicing became more prevalent and important during eukaryotic evolution. Alternative splicing augments the protein repertoire--particularly that of the human genome--and plays an important role in the development and function of differentiated cell types. However, splicing is also extremely vulnerable, and defects in the proper recognition of splicing signals can give rise to a variety of diseases. In this review, we discuss splicing correction therapies, by using the inherited disease Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) as an example. This lethal early childhood disorder is caused by deletions or other severe mutations of SMN1, a gene coding for the essential survival of motoneurons protein. A second gene copy present in humans and few non-human primates, SMN2, can only partly compensate for the defect because of a single nucleotide change in exon 7 that causes this exon to be skipped in the majority of mRNAs. Thus SMN2 is a prime therapeutic target for SMA. In recent years, several strategies based on small molecule drugs, antisense oligonucleotides or in vivo expressed RNAs have been developed that allow a correction of SMN2 splicing. For some of these, a therapeutic benefit has been demonstrated in mouse models for SMA. This means that clinical trials of such splicing therapies for SMA may become possible in the near future.
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16
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Labie D, Kaplan JC. [Update on RNA splicing repair: applications to beta thalassemia and other perspectives]. Med Sci (Paris) 2010; 26:38-41. [PMID: 20132773 DOI: 10.1051/medsci/201026138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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17
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Gene therapy in thalassemia and hemoglobinopathies. Mediterr J Hematol Infect Dis 2009; 1:e2009008. [PMID: 21415990 PMCID: PMC3033156 DOI: 10.4084/mjhid.2009.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2009] [Accepted: 11/12/2009] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Sickle cell disease (SCD) and ß-thalassemia represent the most common hemoglobinopathies caused, respectively, by the alteration of structural features or deficient production of the ß-chain of the Hb molecule. Other hemoglobinopathies are characterized by different mutations in the α- or ß-globin genes and are associated with anemia and might require periodic or chronic blood transfusions. Therefore, ß-thalassemia, SCD and other hemoglobinopathies are excellent candidates for genetic approaches since they are monogenic disorders and, potentially, could be cured by introducing or correcting a single gene into the hematopoietic compartment or a single stem cell. Initial attempts at gene transfer of these hemoglobinopathies have proved unsuccessful due to limitations of available gene transfer vectors. With the advent of lentiviral vectors many of the initial limitations have been overcame. New approaches have also focused on targeting the specific mutation in the ß-globin genes, correcting the DNA sequence or manipulating the fate of RNA translation and splicing to restore ß-globin chain synthesis. These techniques have the potential to correct the defect into hematopoietic stem cells or be utilized to modify stem cells generated from patients affected by these disorders. This review discusses gene therapy strategies for the hemoglobinopathies, including the use of lentiviral vectors, generation of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS) cells, gene targeting, splice-switching and stop codon readthrough.
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Erythroid differentiation-related factor expression driven by effective promoter to ameliorate the anemia syndrome. Biologia (Bratisl) 2009. [DOI: 10.2478/s11756-009-0141-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Uchikawa H, Fujii K, Kohno Y, Katsumata N, Nagao K, Yamada M, Miyashita T. U7 snRNA-mediated correction of aberrant splicing caused by activation of cryptic splice sites. J Hum Genet 2007; 52:891-897. [PMID: 17851636 DOI: 10.1007/s10038-007-0192-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2007] [Accepted: 08/10/2007] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
A considerable fraction of mutations associated with hereditary disorders and cancers affect splicing. Some of them cause exon skipping or the inclusion of an additional exon, whereas others lead to the inclusion of intronic sequences or deletion of exonic sequences through the activation of cryptic splice sites. We focused on the latter cases and have designed a series of vectors that express modified U7 small nuclear RNAs (snRNAs) containing a sequence antisense to the cryptic splice site. Three cases of such mutation were investigated in this study. In two of them, which occurred in the PTCH1 and BRCA1 genes, canonical splice donor sites had been partially impaired by mutations that activated nearby intronic cryptic splice donor sites. Another mutation found in exonic region in CYP11A created a novel splice donor site. Transient expression of the engineered U7 snRNAs in HeLa cells restored correct splicing in a sequence-specific and dose-dependent manner in the former two cases. In contrast, the third case, in which the cryptic splice donor site in the exonic sequence was activated, the expression of modified U7 snRNA resulted in exon skipping. The correction of aberrant splicing by suppressing intronic cryptic splice sites with modified U7 is expected be a promising alternative to gene replacement therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hideki Uchikawa
- Department of Genetics, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, 2-10-1 Okura, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, 157-8535, Japan
- Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
| | - Katsunori Fujii
- Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
| | - Yoichi Kohno
- Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
| | - Noriyuki Katsumata
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, 157-8535, Japan
| | - Kazuaki Nagao
- Department of Genetics, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, 2-10-1 Okura, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, 157-8535, Japan
| | - Masao Yamada
- Department of Genetics, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, 2-10-1 Okura, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, 157-8535, Japan
| | - Toshiyuki Miyashita
- Department of Genetics, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, 2-10-1 Okura, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, 157-8535, Japan.
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Asparuhova MB, Marti G, Liu S, Serhan F, Trono D, Schümperli D. Inhibition of HIV-1 multiplication by a modified U7 snRNA inducing Tat and Rev exon skipping. J Gene Med 2007; 9:323-34. [PMID: 17474072 DOI: 10.1002/jgm.1027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
The HIV-1 regulatory proteins Tat and Rev are encoded by multiply spliced mRNAs that differ by the use of alternative 3' splice sites at the beginning of the internal exon. If these internal exons are skipped, the expression of these genes, and hence HIV-1 multiplication, should be inhibited. We have previously developed a strategy, based on antisense derivatives of U7 small nuclear RNA, that allows us to induce the skipping of an internal exon in virtually any gene. Here, we have successfully applied this approach to induce a partial skipping of the Tat, Rev (and Nef) internal exons. Three functional U7 constructs were subcloned into a lentiviral vector. Two of them strongly reduced the efficiency of lentiviral particle production compared to vectors carrying either no U7 insert or unrelated U7 cassettes. This defect could be partly or fully compensated by coexpressing Rev from an unspliced mRNA in the producing cell line. Upon stable transduction into CEM-SS or CEM T-lymphocytes, the most efficient of these constructs inhibits HIV-1 multiplication. Although the inhibition is not complete, it is more efficient in combination with another mechanism inhibiting HIV multiplication. Therefore, this new approach targeting HIV-1 regulatory genes at the level of pre-mRNA splicing, in combination with other antiviral strategies, may be a useful new tool in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria B Asparuhova
- Institute of Cell Biology, University of Bern, Baltzerstrasse 4, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
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Xie SY, Ren ZR, Zhang JZ, Guo XB, Wang QX, Wang S, Lin D, Gong XL, Li W, Huang SZ, Zeng F, Zeng YT. Restoration of the balanced alpha/beta-globin gene expression in beta654-thalassemia mice using combined RNAi and antisense RNA approach. Hum Mol Genet 2007; 16:2616-25. [PMID: 17716993 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddm218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The beta-thalassemia is associated with abnormality in beta-globin gene, leading to imbalanced synthesis of alpha-/beta-globin chains. Consequently, the excessive free alpha-globin chains precipitate to the erythrocyte membrane, resulting in hemolytic anemia. We have explored post-transcriptional strategies aiming at alpha-globin reduction and beta-globin enrichment on beta(654) (Hbb(th-4)/Hbb(+)) mouse, carrying a human splicing-deficient beta-globin allele (Hbb(th-4)). Lentiviral vectors of short hairpin RNA (shRNA) targeting alpha-globin and/or antisense RNA facilitating beta-globin correct splicing were microinjected into beta(654) single-cell embryos. Three transgenic strains were generated, as alpha(i)-Hbb(th-4)/Hbb(+)(shRNA), beta(a)-Hbb(th-4)/Hbb(+)(antisense) and alpha(i)beta(a)-Hbb(th-4)/Hbb(+)(both shRNA and antisense). Without notable abnormalities, all the founders and their offsprings showed sustained amelioration of hematologic parameters, ineffective erythropoiesis and extramedullary hematopoiesis. Augmented effects appeared in alpha(i)beta(a)-Hbb(th-4)/Hbb(+), which correlated with a better-balanced alpha-/beta-globin mRNA level. Among the transgenic mice integrated with shRNA and antisense RNA, one homozygous mouse (Hbb(th-4)/Hbb(th-4)) had been viable, and the 3-week survival rate for heterozygotes (Hbb(th-4)/Hbb(+)) was 97%, compared with 45.4% for untreated. Our data have demonstrated the feasibility of techniques for beta-thalassemia therapy by balancing the synthesis of alpha-/beta-globin chains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu-Yang Xie
- Shanghai Institute of Medical Genetics, Shanghai Children's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
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22
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Marquis J, Meyer K, Angehrn L, Kämpfer SS, Rothen-Rutishauser B, Schümperli D. Spinal muscular atrophy: SMN2 pre-mRNA splicing corrected by a U7 snRNA derivative carrying a splicing enhancer sequence. Mol Ther 2007; 15:1479-86. [PMID: 17505471 DOI: 10.1038/sj.mt.6300200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a lethal hereditary disease caused by homozygous deletion/inactivation of the survival of motoneuron 1 (SMN1) gene. The nearby SMN2 gene, despite its identical coding capacity, is only an incomplete substitute, because a single nucleotide difference impairs the inclusion of its seventh exon in the messenger RNA (mRNA). This splicing defect can be corrected (transiently) by specially designed oligonucleotides. Here we have developed a more permanent correction strategy based on bifunctional U7 small nuclear RNAs (snRNAs). These carry both an antisense sequence that allows specific binding to exon 7 and a splicing enhancer sequence that will improve the recognition of the targeted exon. When expression cassettes for these RNAs are stably introduced into cells, the U7 snRNAs become incorporated into small nuclear ribonucleoprotein (snRNP) particles that will induce a durable splicing correction. We have optimized this strategy to the point that virtually all SMN2 pre-mRNA becomes correctly spliced. In fibroblasts from an SMA patient, this approach induces a prolonged restoration of SMN protein and ensures its correct localization to discrete nuclear foci (gems).
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Affiliation(s)
- Julien Marquis
- Institute of Cell Biology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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Jeyaseelan K, Sepramaniam S, Armugam A, Wintour EM. Aquaporins: a promising target for drug development. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2007; 10:889-909. [PMID: 17105375 DOI: 10.1517/14728222.10.6.889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Aquaporins (AQPs) are a family of small hydrophobic, integral membrane proteins that are expressed in all living organisms and play critical roles in controlling the water flow into and out of cells. So far, 13 different AQPs have been identified in mammals (AQP 0-12). AQPs have recently been implicated in various diseases such as cancer, cataract, brain oedema, gallstone disease and nephrogenic diabetes insipidus, as well as in the development of obesity and polycystic kidney disease. Interfering with the expression of AQPs will undoubtedly have therapeutic applications. Hence, in this review, the authors look at each AQP and its association with various pathological conditions in humans and demonstrate that they form potential targets for the treatment of such diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kandiah Jeyaseelan
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Department of Biochemistry, 8 Medical Drive, 117597, Singapore.
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24
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Williams T, Kole R. Analysis of prostate-specific membrane antigen splice variants in LNCap cells. Oligonucleotides 2006; 16:186-95. [PMID: 16764542 DOI: 10.1089/oli.2006.16.186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
The prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA), a product of the folate hydrolase (FOLH1) gene, is highly expressed as a largely extracellular membrane-anchored protein in malignant prostate tissues and in nonprostatic tumor neovasculature. Treatment of prostate cancer LNCap cells with spliceswitching oligonucleotides (SSOs) modulated splicing of FOLH1 pre-mRNA from the full-length PSMA splice variant to three splice variants: the cytoplasmic PSM', alternatively spliced at exon 1, and the previously unexamined PSMADelta6 and PSMADelta18 variants, which lack exons 6 and 18, respectively. Application of SSOs decreased membrane PSMA levels and increased PSM', PSMADelta6, and PSMADelta18 transcripts. As a result, PSM' protein was translocated to the cytoplasm, and switching to PSMADelta6 and PSMADelta18 downregulated PSMA expression. NAALADase assays showed that PSM' retained enzymatic activity. PSMADelta6 and PSMADelta18 were not active, presumably due to a change in a reading frame that eliminated the NAALDase active site or the dimerization domain or both in these proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiffany Williams
- Curriculum in Genetics and Molecular Biology, UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7295, USA
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Khanahmad H, Noori Daloii MR, Shokrgozar MA, Azadmanesh K, Niavarani AR, Karimi M, Rabbani B, Khalili M, Bagheri R, Maryami F, Zeinali S. A novel single step double positive double negative selection strategy for β-globin gene replacement. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2006; 345:14-20. [PMID: 16674923 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2006.04.060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2006] [Accepted: 04/07/2006] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
beta-Thalassemias are a heterogeneous group of autosomal recessive disorders, characterized by reduced or absence of the beta-globin chain production by the affected alleles. Transplantation of genetically corrected autologous hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) is an attractive approach for treatment of these disorders. Gene targeting (homologous recombination) has many desirable features for gene therapy due to its ability to target the mutant genes and restore their normal expression. In the present study, a specific gene construct for beta-globin gene replacement was constructed consisting of: two homologous stems including, upstream and downstream regions of beta-globin gene, beta-globin gene lying between hygromycin and neomycin resistant genes as positive selection markers and thymidine kinase expression cassettes at both termini as negative selection marker. All segments were subcloned into pBGGT vector. The final plasmid was checked by sequencing and named as pFBGGT. Mammalian cell line COS-7 was transfected with linear plasmid by lipofection followed by positive and negative selection. DNA of the selected cells was analyzed by PCR and sequencing to confirm the occurrence of homologous recombination. In this novel strategy gene replacement was achieved in one step and by a single construct.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Khanahmad
- Biotechnology Research Centre, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
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26
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah Rund
- Hematology Department, Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical Center, Ein Kerem, Jerusalem, Israel.
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27
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Goyenvalle A, Vulin A, Fougerousse F, Leturcq F, Kaplan JC, Garcia L, Danos O. Rescue of Dystrophic Muscle Through U7 snRNA-Mediated Exon Skipping. Science 2004; 306:1796-9. [PMID: 15528407 DOI: 10.1126/science.1104297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 349] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Most mutations in the dystrophin gene create a frameshift or a stop in the mRNA and are associated with severe Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Exon skipping that naturally occurs at low frequency sometimes eliminates the mutation and leads to the production of a rescued protein. We have achieved persistent exon skipping that removes the mutated exon on the dystrophin messenger mRNA of the mdx mouse, by a single administration of an AAV vector expressing antisense sequences linked to a modified U7 small nuclear RNA. We report the sustained production of functional dystrophin at physiological levels in entire groups of muscles and the correction of the muscular dystrophy.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Dependovirus/genetics
- Dystrophin/genetics
- Dystrophin/metabolism
- Exons
- Genetic Therapy
- Genetic Vectors
- Introns
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred mdx
- Muscle Contraction
- Muscle Fibers, Skeletal/immunology
- Muscle Fibers, Skeletal/pathology
- Muscle, Skeletal/metabolism
- Muscle, Skeletal/pathology
- Muscle, Skeletal/physiology
- Muscular Dystrophy, Animal/genetics
- Muscular Dystrophy, Animal/pathology
- Muscular Dystrophy, Animal/physiopathology
- Muscular Dystrophy, Animal/therapy
- Muscular Dystrophy, Duchenne/genetics
- Muscular Dystrophy, Duchenne/pathology
- Muscular Dystrophy, Duchenne/physiopathology
- Muscular Dystrophy, Duchenne/therapy
- Mutation
- Oligonucleotides, Antisense/pharmacology
- RNA Splicing
- RNA, Messenger/genetics
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- RNA, Small Nuclear/genetics
- RNA, Small Nuclear/metabolism
- Transfection
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Abstract
Alternative splicing is the major source of proteome diversity in humans and thus is highly relevant to disease and therapy. For example, recent work suggests that the long-sought-after target of the analgesic acetaminophen is a neural-specific, alternatively spliced isoform of cyclooxygenase 1 (COX-1). Several important diseases, such as cystic fibrosis, have been linked with mutations or variations in either cis-acting elements or trans-acting factors that lead to aberrant splicing and abnormal protein production. Correction of erroneous splicing is thus an important goal of molecular therapies. Recent experiments have used modified oligonucleotides to inhibit cryptic exons or to activate exons weakened by mutations, suggesting that these reagents could eventually lead to effective therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariano A Garcia-Blanco
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Center for RNA Biology, Box 3053, Research Drive, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA.
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Stathopulos PB. Taking the good out of the bad: lentiviral-based gene therapy of the hemoglobinopathies. Biotechnol Adv 2004; 21:513-26. [PMID: 14499152 DOI: 10.1016/s0734-9750(03)00102-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Sickle cell disease and beta-thalassemia are excellent candidates for gene therapy since transfer of a single gene into hematopoietic stem cells should theoretically elicit a therapeutic response. Initial attempts at gene therapy of these hemoglobinopathies have proved unsuccessful due to limitations of available gene transfer vectors. With the extensive research on human immunodeficiency virus-1 due to the acquired immune deficiency syndrome pandemic, researchers have realized that this lentivirus, engineered to be devoid of any pathogenic elements, can be an effective gene transfer vector. This review discusses the gene therapy strategy for the hemoglobinopathies and outlines why lentiviral-derived vectors are particularly suited for this type of application, keeping past failures at gene therapy of these hemoglobinopathies in mind. Development, improvement, and methods for preparation of lentiviral-derived vectors are examined. Recently published results of successful gene therapy treatment of beta-thalassemic and sickle cell diseased mice using lentiviral-derived vectors are described. Finally, criticisms and future directions of lentiviral-based biotechnology are considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter B Stathopulos
- Department of Biology, University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue West, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada N2L 3G1.
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Abstract
The past 3 years have been characterized by a number of impressive advances as well as setbacks in gene therapy for genetic disease. Children with X-linked severe combined immunodeficiency disorder (SCID-X1) have shown almost complete reconstitution of their immune system after receiving retrovirally transduced autologous CD34+ hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). However, two of 11 treated patients subsequently developed a leukemia-like disease probablydue to the undesired activation of an oncogene. Gene transfer to HSCs resulted in substantial correction of immune function and multi-lineage engraftment in two patients with adenosine deaminase (ADA)-SCID. Several Phase I clinical trials for treatment of hemophilia A and B have been initiated or completed. Partial correction of hemophilia A, albeit transient, has been reported by ex vivo gene transfer to autologous fibroblasts. Intramuscular injection of adeno-associated viral (AAV) vector to patients with severe hemophilia B resulted in evidence of Factor IX gene transfer to skeletal muscle and a separate trial based on hepatic infusion of AAV vector is ongoing. Sustained therapeutic levels of coagulation factor expression have been achieved in preclinical models using retroviral, lentiviral, AAV and high capacity adenoviral vectors. Efficient lentiviral gene transfer to HSC in murine models of beta-thalassemia and sickle cell disease demonstrated sustained phenotypic correction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roland W Herzog
- The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Abramson Research Center, PA 19104, USA.
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Abstract
Alternative splicing allows the production of several different proteins from a single pre-mRNA, resulting in an increased diversity of proteins derived from a relatively limited number of transcribed genes. Although it is necessary for normal development, alternative splicing and its aberrations are also implicated in disease states from thalassemia and cancer to neurodegenerative disorders. Techniques that trick the splicing machinery to alter the splicing pathways can be of high therapeutic value. Antisense technology, used mostly for RNA downregulation, recently has been adapted to alter the splicing process. The promise of this approach is now being realized as a result of chemical modification of oligonucleotides and improvements in their delivery in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryszard Kole
- Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
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32
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Abstract
With the advent of functional genomics and the shift of interest towards sequence-based therapeutics, the past decades have witnessed intense research efforts on nucleic acid-mediated gene regulation technologies. Today, RNA interference is emerging as a groundbreaking discovery, holding promise for development of genetic modulators of unprecedented potency. Twenty-five years after the discovery of antisense RNA and ribozymes, gene control therapeutics are still facing developmental difficulties, with only one US FDA-approved antisense drug currently available in the clinic. Limited predictability of target site selection models is recognized as one major stumbling block that is shared by all of the so-called complementary technologies, slowing the progress towards a commercial product. Currently employed in vitro systems for target site selection include RNAse H-based mapping, antisense oligonucleotide microarrays, and functional screening approaches using libraries of catalysts with randomized target-binding arms to identify optimal ribozyme/DNAzyme cleavage sites. Individually, each strategy has its drawbacks from a drug development perspective. Utilization of message-modulating sequences as therapeutic agents requires that their action on a given target transcript meets criteria of potency and selectivity in the natural physiological environment. In addition to sequence-dependent characteristics, other factors will influence annealing reactions and duplex stability, as well as nucleic acid-mediated catalysis. Parallel consideration of physiological selection systems thus appears essential for screening for nucleic acid compounds proposed for therapeutic applications. Cellular message-targeting studies face issues relating to efficient nucleic acid delivery and appropriate analysis of response. For reliability and simplicity, prokaryotic systems can provide a rapid and cost-effective means of studying message targeting under pseudo-cellular conditions, but such approaches also have limitations. To streamline nucleic acid drug discovery, we propose a multi-model strategy integrating high-throughput-adapted bacterial screening, followed by reporter-based and/or natural cellular models and potentially also in vitro assays for characterization of the most promising candidate sequences, before final in vivo testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabelle Gautherot
- Virology Platform, Industrialization and Process Development, AVENTIS PASTEUR, Marcy l'Etoile, France.
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Sazani P, Kole R. Therapeutic potential of antisense oligonucleotides as modulators of alternative splicing. J Clin Invest 2003; 112:481-6. [PMID: 12925686 PMCID: PMC171400 DOI: 10.1172/jci19547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
An estimated 60% of all human genes undergo alternative splicing, a highly regulated process that produces splice variants with different functions. Such variants have been linked to a variety of cancers, and genetic diseases such as thalassemia and cystic fibrosis. This Perspective describes a promising approach to RNA repair based on the use of antisense oligonucleotides to modulate alternative splicing and engender the production of therapeutic gene products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Sazani
- University of North Carolina, Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, CB #7295, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599-7295, USA
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34
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Sazani P, Kole R. Therapeutic potential of antisense oligonucleotides as modulators of alternative splicing. J Clin Invest 2003. [DOI: 10.1172/jci200319547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 170] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
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35
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Sazani P, Vacek MM, Kole R. Short-term and long-term modulation of gene expression by antisense therapeutics. Curr Opin Biotechnol 2002; 13:468-72. [PMID: 12459339 DOI: 10.1016/s0958-1669(02)00366-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
To achieve effective modulation of gene expression by antisense oligonucleotides, novel oligonucleotide chemistries that do not promote RNase H degradation of target RNA are needed. In addition to short-term oligonucleotide effects, long-term gene regulation can be accomplished by intracellularly expressed antisense RNAs delivered by viral vectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Sazani
- Department of Pharmacology, Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, CB 7295, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7295, USA
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