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Aggarwal G, Banerjee S, Jones SA, Benchaar Y, Bélanger J, Sévigny M, Smith DM, Niehoff ML, Pavlack M, de Vera IMS, Petkau TL, Leavitt BR, Ling K, Jafar-Nejad P, Rigo F, Morley JE, Farr SA, Dutchak PA, Sephton CF, Nguyen AD. Antisense oligonucleotides targeting the miR-29b binding site in the GRN mRNA increase progranulin translation. J Biol Chem 2023; 299:105475. [PMID: 37981208 PMCID: PMC10755782 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.105475] [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: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Heterozygous GRN (progranulin) mutations cause frontotemporal dementia (FTD) due to haploinsufficiency, and increasing progranulin levels is a major therapeutic goal. Several microRNAs, including miR-29b, negatively regulate progranulin protein levels. Antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) are emerging as a promising therapeutic modality for neurological diseases, but strategies for increasing target protein levels are limited. Here, we tested the efficacy of ASOs as enhancers of progranulin expression by sterically blocking the miR-29b binding site in the 3' UTR of the human GRN mRNA. We found 16 ASOs that increase progranulin protein in a dose-dependent manner in neuroglioma cells. A subset of these ASOs also increased progranulin protein in iPSC-derived neurons and in a humanized GRN mouse model. In FRET-based assays, the ASOs effectively competed for miR-29b from binding to the GRN 3' UTR RNA. The ASOs increased levels of newly synthesized progranulin protein by increasing its translation, as revealed by polysome profiling. Together, our results demonstrate that ASOs can be used to effectively increase target protein levels by partially blocking miR binding sites. This ASO strategy may be therapeutically feasible for progranulin-deficient FTD as well as other conditions of haploinsufficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geetika Aggarwal
- Division of Geriatric Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri, USA; Institute for Translational Neuroscience, Saint Louis University, St Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Subhashis Banerjee
- Division of Geriatric Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri, USA; Institute for Translational Neuroscience, Saint Louis University, St Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Spencer A Jones
- Division of Geriatric Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri, USA; Institute for Translational Neuroscience, Saint Louis University, St Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Yousri Benchaar
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, CERVO Brain Research Centre, Laval University, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Jasmine Bélanger
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, CERVO Brain Research Centre, Laval University, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Myriam Sévigny
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, CERVO Brain Research Centre, Laval University, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Denise M Smith
- Division of Geriatric Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri, USA; Institute for Translational Neuroscience, Saint Louis University, St Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Michael L Niehoff
- Division of Geriatric Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri, USA; Veterans Affairs Medical Center, St Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Monica Pavlack
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri, USA; Institute for Translational Neuroscience, Saint Louis University, St Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Ian Mitchelle S de Vera
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri, USA; Institute for Translational Neuroscience, Saint Louis University, St Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Terri L Petkau
- Department of Medical Genetics, Centre for Molecular Medicine & Therapeutics, B.C. Children's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Blair R Leavitt
- Department of Medical Genetics, Centre for Molecular Medicine & Therapeutics, B.C. Children's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; Center for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Karen Ling
- Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Carlsbad, California, USA
| | | | - Frank Rigo
- Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Carlsbad, California, USA
| | - John E Morley
- Division of Geriatric Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Susan A Farr
- Division of Geriatric Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri, USA; Institute for Translational Neuroscience, Saint Louis University, St Louis, Missouri, USA; Veterans Affairs Medical Center, St Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Paul A Dutchak
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, CERVO Brain Research Centre, Laval University, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Chantelle F Sephton
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, CERVO Brain Research Centre, Laval University, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Andrew D Nguyen
- Division of Geriatric Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri, USA; Institute for Translational Neuroscience, Saint Louis University, St Louis, Missouri, USA.
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Blotas C, Férec C, Moisan S. Tissue-Specific Regulation of CFTR Gene Expression. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10678. [PMID: 37445855 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241310678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
More than 2000 variations are described within the CFTR (Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Regulator) gene and related to large clinical issues from cystic fibrosis to mono-organ diseases. Although these CFTR-associated diseases have been well documented, a large phenotype spectrum is observed and correlations between phenotypes and genotypes are still not well established. To address this issue, we present several regulatory elements that can modulate CFTR gene expression in a tissue-specific manner. Among them, cis-regulatory elements act through chromatin loopings and take part in three-dimensional structured organization. With tissue-specific transcription factors, they form chromatin modules and can regulate gene expression. Alterations of specific regulations can impact and modulate disease expressions. Understanding all those mechanisms highlights the need to expand research outside the gene to enhance our knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara Blotas
- Univ Brest, Inserm, EFS, UMR 1078, GGB, F-29200 Brest, France
| | - Claude Férec
- Univ Brest, Inserm, EFS, UMR 1078, GGB, F-29200 Brest, France
| | - Stéphanie Moisan
- Univ Brest, Inserm, EFS, UMR 1078, GGB, F-29200 Brest, France
- Laboratoire de Génétique Moléculaire et d'Histocompatibilité, CHU Brest, F-29200 Brest, France
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3
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D'Antonio M, Nguyen JP, Arthur TD, Matsui H, D'Antonio-Chronowska A, Frazer KA. Fine mapping spatiotemporal mechanisms of genetic variants underlying cardiac traits and disease. Nat Commun 2023; 14:1132. [PMID: 36854752 PMCID: PMC9975214 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-36638-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The causal variants and genes underlying thousands of cardiac GWAS signals have yet to be identified. Here, we leverage spatiotemporal information on 966 RNA-seq cardiac samples and perform an expression quantitative trait locus (eQTL) analysis detecting eQTLs considering both eGenes and eIsoforms. We identify 2,578 eQTLs associated with a specific developmental stage-, tissue- and/or cell type. Colocalization between eQTL and GWAS signals of five cardiac traits identified variants with high posterior probabilities for being causal in 210 GWAS loci. Pulse pressure GWAS loci are enriched for colocalization with fetal- and smooth muscle- eQTLs; pulse rate with adult- and cardiac muscle- eQTLs; and atrial fibrillation with cardiac muscle- eQTLs. Fine mapping identifies 79 credible sets with five or fewer SNPs, of which 15 were associated with spatiotemporal eQTLs. Our study shows that many cardiac GWAS variants impact traits and disease in a developmental stage-, tissue- and/or cell type-specific fashion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo D'Antonio
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA.
- Division of Biomedical Informatics, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA.
- Institute of Genomic Medicine, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Dr, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA.
| | - Jennifer P Nguyen
- Division of Biomedical Informatics, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
- Bioinformatics and Systems Biology Graduate Program, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Timothy D Arthur
- Division of Biomedical Informatics, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
- Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Hiroko Matsui
- Institute of Genomic Medicine, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Dr, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | | | - Kelly A Frazer
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA.
- Institute of Genomic Medicine, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Dr, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA.
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Putting the "mi" in omics: discovering miRNA biomarkers for pediatric precision care. Pediatr Res 2023; 93:316-323. [PMID: 35906312 PMCID: PMC9884316 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-022-02206-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
In the past decade, growing interest in micro-ribonucleic acids (miRNAs) has catapulted these small, non-coding nucleic acids to the forefront of biomarker research. Advances in scientific knowledge have made it clear that miRNAs play a vital role in regulating cellular physiology throughout the human body. Perturbations in miRNA signaling have also been described in a variety of pediatric conditions-from cancer, to renal failure, to traumatic brain injury. Likewise, the number of studies across pediatric disciplines that pair patient miRNA-omics with longitudinal clinical data are growing. Analyses of these voluminous, multivariate data sets require understanding of pediatric phenotypic data, data science, and genomics. Use of machine learning techniques to aid in biomarker detection have helped decipher background noise from biologically meaningful changes in the data. Further, emerging research suggests that miRNAs may have potential as therapeutic targets for pediatric precision care. Here, we review current miRNA biomarkers of pediatric diseases and studies that have combined machine learning techniques, miRNA-omics, and patient health data to identify novel biomarkers and potential therapeutics for pediatric diseases. IMPACT: In the following review article, we summarized how recent developments in microRNA research may be coupled with machine learning techniques to advance pediatric precision care.
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Jackson JJ, Mao Y, White TR, Foye C, Oliver KE. Features of CFTR mRNA and implications for therapeutics development. Front Genet 2023; 14:1166529. [PMID: 37168508 PMCID: PMC10165737 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2023.1166529] [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: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an autosomal recessive disease impacting ∼100,000 people worldwide. This lethal disorder is caused by mutation of the CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene, which encodes an ATP-binding cassette-class C protein. More than 2,100 variants have been identified throughout the length of CFTR. These defects confer differing levels of severity in mRNA and/or protein synthesis, folding, gating, and turnover. Drug discovery efforts have resulted in recent development of modulator therapies that improve clinical outcomes for people living with CF. However, a significant portion of the CF population has demonstrated either no response and/or adverse reactions to small molecules. Additional therapeutic options are needed to restore underlying genetic defects for all patients, particularly individuals carrying rare or refractory CFTR variants. Concerted focus has been placed on rescuing variants that encode truncated CFTR protein, which also harbor abnormalities in mRNA synthesis and stability. The current mini-review provides an overview of CFTR mRNA features known to elicit functional consequences on final protein conformation and function, including considerations for RNA-directed therapies under investigation. Alternative exon usage in the 5'-untranslated region, polypyrimidine tracts, and other sequence elements that influence splicing are discussed. Additionally, we describe mechanisms of CFTR mRNA decay and post-transcriptional regulation mediated through interactions with the 3'-untranslated region (e.g. poly-uracil sequences, microRNAs). Contributions of synonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms to CFTR transcript utilization are also examined. Comprehensive understanding of CFTR RNA biology will be imperative for optimizing future therapeutic endeavors intended to address presently untreatable forms of CF.
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Affiliation(s)
- JaNise J. Jackson
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Center for Cystic Fibrosis and Airways Disease Research, Emory University and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Yiyang Mao
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Center for Cystic Fibrosis and Airways Disease Research, Emory University and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Tyshawn R. White
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Center for Cystic Fibrosis and Airways Disease Research, Emory University and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Catherine Foye
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Center for Cystic Fibrosis and Airways Disease Research, Emory University and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Kathryn E. Oliver
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Center for Cystic Fibrosis and Airways Disease Research, Emory University and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, United States
- *Correspondence: Kathryn E. Oliver,
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Bergougnoux A, Billet A, Ka C, Heller M, Degrugillier F, Vuillaume ML, Thoreau V, Sasorith S, Bareil C, Thèze C, Ferec C, Gac GL, Bienvenu T, Bieth E, Gaston V, Lalau G, Pagin A, Malinge MC, Dufernez F, Lemonnier L, Koenig M, Fergelot P, Claustres M, Taulan-Cadars M, Kitzis A, Reboul MP, Becq F, Fanen P, Mekki C, Audrezet MP, Girodon E, Raynal C. The multi-faceted nature of 15 CFTR exonic variations: Impact on their functional classification and perspectives for therapy. J Cyst Fibros 2022:S1569-1993(22)01423-0. [PMID: 36567205 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcf.2022.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The majority of variants of unknown clinical significance (VUCS) in the CFTR gene are missense variants. While change on the CFTR protein structure or function is often suspected, impact on splicing may be neglected. Such undetected splicing default of variants may complicate the interpretation of genetic analyses and the use of an appropriate pharmacotherapy. METHODS We selected 15 variants suspected to impact CFTR splicing after in silico predictions on 319 missense variants (214 VUCS), reported in the CFTR-France database. Six specialized laboratories assessed the impact of nucleotide substitutions on splicing (minigenes), mRNA expression levels (quantitative PCR), synthesis and maturation (western blot), cellular localization (immunofluorescence) and channel function (patch clamp) of the CFTR protein. We also studied maturation and function of the truncated protein, consecutive to in-frame aberrant splicing, on additional plasmid constructs. RESULTS Six of the 15 variants had a major impact on CFTR splicing by in-frame (n = 3) or out-of-frame (n = 3) exon skipping. We reclassified variants into: splicing variants; variants causing a splicing defect and the impairment of CFTR folding and/or function related to the amino acid substitution; deleterious missense variants that impair CFTR folding and/or function; and variants with no consequence on the different processes tested. CONCLUSION The 15 variants have been reclassified by our comprehensive approach of in vitro experiments that should be used to properly interpret very rare exonic variants of the CFTR gene. Targeted therapies may thus be adapted to the molecular defects regarding the results of laboratory experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Bergougnoux
- Génétique Moléculaire, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France; PhyMedExp, INSERM, CNRS UMR, Montpellier, France; Université de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - A Billet
- Laboratoire STIM, Université de Poitiers, Poitiers, France
| | - C Ka
- Service de génétique moléculaire, CHRU Brest, Brest, France; Université de Brest, Inserm, UMR 1078, GGB, Brest, France
| | - M Heller
- Service de Médecine Génomique des Maladies de Système et d'Organe, APHP Centre - Université de Paris, Hôpital Cochin, Paris, France
| | - F Degrugillier
- Université Paris-Est Créteil, INSERM, IMRB, Créteil F-94010, France
| | - M-L Vuillaume
- Génétique Moléculaire, CHU Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - V Thoreau
- Laboratoire NEUVACOD-3808, Université de Poitiers, Poitiers, France
| | - S Sasorith
- Génétique Moléculaire, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France; PhyMedExp, INSERM, CNRS UMR, Montpellier, France
| | - C Bareil
- Génétique Moléculaire, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - C Thèze
- Génétique Moléculaire, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - C Ferec
- Université de Brest, Inserm, UMR 1078, GGB, Brest, France
| | - G Le Gac
- Service de génétique moléculaire, CHRU Brest, Brest, France; Université de Brest, Inserm, UMR 1078, GGB, Brest, France
| | - T Bienvenu
- Service de Médecine Génomique des Maladies de Système et d'Organe, APHP Centre - Université de Paris, Hôpital Cochin, Paris, France
| | - E Bieth
- Génétique Médicale, CHU Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - V Gaston
- Génétique Médicale, CHU Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - G Lalau
- Biochimie et Biologie Moléculaire, CHU Lille, Lille, France
| | - A Pagin
- Biochimie et Biologie Moléculaire, CHU Lille, Lille, France
| | - M-C Malinge
- Biochimie et Génétique, CHU Angers, Angers, France
| | - F Dufernez
- Génétique, CHU Poitiers, Poitiers, France
| | - L Lemonnier
- Association Vaincre la Mucoviscidose, Paris, France
| | - M Koenig
- Génétique Moléculaire, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France; PhyMedExp, INSERM, CNRS UMR, Montpellier, France; Université de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - P Fergelot
- MRGM, INSERM UMR 1211 Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - M Claustres
- Université de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - M Taulan-Cadars
- PhyMedExp, INSERM, CNRS UMR, Montpellier, France; Université de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - A Kitzis
- Génétique, CHU Poitiers, Poitiers, France
| | - M-P Reboul
- Génétique Moléculaire, CHU Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - F Becq
- Laboratoire STIM, Université de Poitiers, Poitiers, France
| | - P Fanen
- AP-HP, Département de Biochimie-Biologie Moléculaire, Pharmacologie, Génétique Médicale, Hôpital Henri Mondor, Créteil F-94010, France
| | - C Mekki
- AP-HP, Département de Biochimie-Biologie Moléculaire, Pharmacologie, Génétique Médicale, Hôpital Henri Mondor, Créteil F-94010, France
| | - M-P Audrezet
- Service de génétique moléculaire, CHRU Brest, Brest, France; Université de Brest, Inserm, UMR 1078, GGB, Brest, France
| | - E Girodon
- Service de Médecine Génomique des Maladies de Système et d'Organe, APHP Centre - Université de Paris, Hôpital Cochin, Paris, France; INSERM U1151, Institut Necker Enfants Malades, Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | - C Raynal
- Génétique Moléculaire, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France; PhyMedExp, INSERM, CNRS UMR, Montpellier, France.
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Ensinck MM, Carlon MS. One Size Does Not Fit All: The Past, Present and Future of Cystic Fibrosis Causal Therapies. Cells 2022; 11:cells11121868. [PMID: 35740997 PMCID: PMC9220995 DOI: 10.3390/cells11121868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Revised: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is the most common monogenic disorder, caused by mutations in the CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene. Over the last 30 years, tremendous progress has been made in understanding the molecular basis of CF and the development of treatments that target the underlying defects in CF. Currently, a highly effective CFTR modulator treatment (Kalydeco™/Trikafta™) is available for 90% of people with CF. In this review, we will give an extensive overview of past and ongoing efforts in the development of therapies targeting the molecular defects in CF. We will discuss strategies targeting the CFTR protein (i.e., CFTR modulators such as correctors and potentiators), its cellular environment (i.e., proteostasis modulation, stabilization at the plasma membrane), the CFTR mRNA (i.e., amplifiers, nonsense mediated mRNA decay suppressors, translational readthrough inducing drugs) or the CFTR gene (gene therapies). Finally, we will focus on how these efforts can be applied to the 15% of people with CF for whom no causal therapy is available yet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marjolein M. Ensinck
- Molecular Virology and Gene Therapy, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Flanders, Belgium;
| | - Marianne S. Carlon
- Molecular Virology and Gene Therapy, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Flanders, Belgium;
- Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases and Thoracic Surgery (BREATHE), Department of Chronic Diseases and Metabolism, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Flanders, Belgium
- Correspondence:
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8
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Splicing mutations in the CFTR gene as therapeutic targets. Gene Ther 2022; 29:399-406. [PMID: 35650428 PMCID: PMC9385490 DOI: 10.1038/s41434-022-00347-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Revised: 05/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The marketing approval, about ten years ago, of the first disease modulator for patients with cystic fibrosis harboring specific CFTR genotypes (~5% of all patients) brought new hope for their treatment. To date, several therapeutic strategies have been approved and the number of CFTR mutations targeted by therapeutic agents is increasing. Although these drugs do not reverse the existing disease, they help to increase the median life expectancy. However, on the basis of their CFTR genotype, ~10% of patients presently do not qualify for any of the currently available CFTR modulator therapies, particularly patients with splicing mutations (~12% of the reported CFTR mutations). Efforts are currently made to develop therapeutic agents that target disease-causing CFTR variants that affect splicing. This highlights the need to fully identify them by scanning non-coding regions and systematically determine their functional consequences. In this review, we present some examples of CFTR alterations that affect splicing events and the different therapeutic options that are currently developed and tested for splice switching.
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9
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Farinha CM, Gentzsch M. Revisiting CFTR Interactions: Old Partners and New Players. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:13196. [PMID: 34947992 PMCID: PMC8703571 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222413196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Revised: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Remarkable progress in CFTR research has led to the therapeutic development of modulators that rescue the basic defect in cystic fibrosis. There is continuous interest in studying CFTR molecular disease mechanisms as not all cystic fibrosis patients have a therapeutic option available. Addressing the basis of the problem by comprehensively understanding the critical molecular associations of CFTR interactions remains key. With the availability of CFTR modulators, there is interest in comprehending which interactions are critical to rescue CFTR and which are altered by modulators or CFTR mutations. Here, the current knowledge on interactions that govern CFTR folding, processing, and stability is summarized. Furthermore, we describe protein complexes and signal pathways that modulate the CFTR function. Primary epithelial cells display a spatial control of the CFTR interactions and have become a common system for preclinical and personalized medicine studies. Strikingly, the novel roles of CFTR in development and differentiation have been recently uncovered and it has been revealed that specific CFTR gene interactions also play an important role in transcriptional regulation. For a comprehensive understanding of the molecular environment of CFTR, it is important to consider CFTR mutation-dependent interactions as well as factors affecting the CFTR interactome on the cell type, tissue-specific, and transcriptional levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos M. Farinha
- BioISI—Biosystems and Integrative Sciences Institute, Faculty of Sciences, University of Lisboa, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Martina Gentzsch
- Marsico Lung Institute and Cystic Fibrosis Research Center, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Pulmonology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
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10
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Soni DK, Biswas R. Role of Non-Coding RNAs in Post-Transcriptional Regulation of Lung Diseases. Front Genet 2021; 12:767348. [PMID: 34819948 PMCID: PMC8606426 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.767348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), notably microRNAs (miRNAs) and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), have recently gained increasing consideration because of their versatile role as key regulators of gene expression. They adopt diverse mechanisms to regulate transcription and translation, and thereby, the function of the protein, which is associated with several major biological processes. For example, proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, and metabolic pathways demand fine-tuning for the precise development of a specific tissue or organ. The deregulation of ncRNA expression is concomitant with multiple diseases, including lung diseases. This review highlights recent advances in the post-transcriptional regulation of miRNAs and lncRNAs in lung diseases such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cystic fibrosis, and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Further, we also discuss the emerging role of ncRNAs as biomarkers as well as therapeutic targets for lung diseases. However, more investigations are required to explore miRNAs and lncRNAs interaction, and their function in the regulation of mRNA expression. Understanding these mechanisms might lead to early diagnosis and the development of novel therapeutics for lung diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dharmendra Kumar Soni
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Genetics, School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Roopa Biswas
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Genetics, School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States
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11
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Zhou LY, Lin SN, Rieder F, Chen MH, Zhang SH, Mao R. Noncoding RNAs as Promising Diagnostic Biomarkers and Therapeutic Targets in Intestinal Fibrosis of Crohn's Disease: The Path From Bench to Bedside. Inflamm Bowel Dis 2021; 27:971-982. [PMID: 33324986 PMCID: PMC8344842 DOI: 10.1093/ibd/izaa321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Fibrosis is a major pathway to organ injury and failure, accounting for more than one-third of deaths worldwide. Intestinal fibrosis causes irreversible and serious clinical complications, such as strictures and obstruction, secondary to a complex pathogenesis. Under the stimulation of profibrotic soluble factors, excessive activation of mesenchymal cells causes extracellular matrix deposition via canonical transforming growth factor-β/Smads signaling or other pathways (eg, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition) in intestinal fibrogenesis. In recent studies, the importance of noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) stands out in fibrotic diseases in that ncRNAs exhibit a remarkable variety of biological functions in modulating the aforementioned fibrogenic responses. In this review, we summarize the role of ncRNAs, including the emerging long ncRNAs and circular RNAs, in intestinal fibrogenesis. Notably, the translational potential of ncRNAs as diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets in the management of intestinal fibrosis is discussed based on clinical trials from fibrotic diseases in other organs. The main points of this review include the following: • Characteristics of ncRNAs and mechanisms of intestinal fibrogenesis • Wide participation of ncRNAs (especially the emerging long ncRNAs and circular RNAs) in intestinal fibrosis, including transforming growth factor-β signaling, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition/endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition, and extracellular matrix remodeling • Translational potential of ncRNAs in the diagnosis and treatment of intestinal fibrosis based on clinical trials from fibrotic diseases in other organs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Long-Yuan Zhou
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Si-Nan Lin
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Florian Rieder
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Digestive Diseases and Surgery Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Min-Hu Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Sheng-Hong Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ren Mao
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Digestive Diseases and Surgery Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
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12
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Wang Q, Tao Y, Xie H, Liu C, Liu P. MicroRNA‑101 inhibits renal tubular epithelial‑to‑mesenchymal transition by targeting TGF‑β1 type I receptor. Int J Mol Med 2021; 47:119. [PMID: 33955520 PMCID: PMC8099196 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2021.4952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs/miRs) are key regulators of renal interstitial fibrosis (RIF). The present study was designed to identify miRNAs associated with the development of RIF, and to explore the ability of these identified miRNAs to modulate the renal tubular epithelial‑to‑mesenchymal transition (EMT) process. To this end, miRNAs that were differentially expressed between normal and fibrotic kidneys in a rat model of mercury chloride (HgCl2)‑induced RIF were detected via an array‑based approach. Bioinformatics analyses revealed that miR‑101 was the miRNA that was most significantly downregulated in the fibrotic renal tissue samples, and this was confirmed by RT‑qPCR, which also demonstrated that this miRNA was downregulated in transforming growth factor (TGF)‑β1‑treated human proximal tubular epithelial (HK‑2) cells. When miR‑101 was overexpressed, this was sufficient to reverse TGF‑β1‑induced EMT in HK‑2 cells, leading to the upregulation of the epithelial marker, E‑cadherin, and the downregulation of the mesenchymal marker, α‑smooth muscle actin. By contrast, the downregulation of miR‑101 using an inhibitor exerted the opposite effect. The overexpression of miR‑101 also suppressed the expression of the miR‑101 target gene, TGF‑β1 type I receptor (TβR‑I), and thereby impaired TGF‑β1/Smad3 signaling, while the opposite was observed upon miR‑101 inhibition. To further confirm the ability of miR‑101 to modulate EMT, the HK‑2 cells were treated with the TβR‑I inhibitor, SB‑431542, which significantly suppressed TGF‑β1‑induced EMT in these cells. Notably, miR‑101 inhibition exerted a less pronounced effect upon EMT‑related phenotypes in these TβR‑I inhibitor‑treated HK‑2 cells, supporting a model wherein miR‑101 inhibits TGF‑β1‑induced EMT by suppressing TβR‑I expression. On the whole, the present study demonstrates that miR‑101 is capable of inhibiting TGF‑β1‑induced tubular EMT by targeting TβR‑I, suggesting that it may be an important regulator of RIF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinglan Wang
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, P.R. China
| | - Yanyan Tao
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, P.R. China
| | - Hongdong Xie
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, P.R. China
| | - Chenghai Liu
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, P.R. China
| | - Ping Liu
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, P.R. China
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Maule G, Ensinck M, Bulcaen M, Carlon MS. Rewriting CFTR to cure cystic fibrosis. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2021; 182:185-224. [PMID: 34175042 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2020.12.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an autosomal recessive monogenic disease caused by mutations in the Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane conductance Regulator (CFTR) gene. Although F508del is the most frequent mutation, there are in total 360 confirmed disease-causing CFTR mutations, impairing CFTR production, function and stability. Currently, the only causal treatments available are CFTR correctors and potentiators that directly target the mutant protein. While these pharmacological advances and better symptomatic care have improved life expectancy of people with CF, none of these treatments provides a cure. The discovery and development of programmable nucleases, in particular CRISPR nucleases and derived systems, rekindled the field of CF gene therapy, offering the possibility of a permanent correction of the CFTR gene. In this review we will discuss different strategies to restore CFTR function via gene editing correction of CFTR mutations or enhanced CFTR expression, and address how best to deliver these treatments to target cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Maule
- Department CIBIO, University of Trento, Trento, Italy; Institute of Biophysics, National Research Council, Trento, Italy
| | - Marjolein Ensinck
- Molecular Virology and Gene Therapy, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven, Flanders, Belgium
| | - Mattijs Bulcaen
- Molecular Virology and Gene Therapy, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven, Flanders, Belgium
| | - Marianne S Carlon
- Molecular Virology and Gene Therapy, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven, Flanders, Belgium.
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14
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A bird eye view on cystic fibrosis: An underestimated multifaceted chronic disorder. Life Sci 2020; 268:118959. [PMID: 33383045 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2020.118959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Revised: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an autosomal recessive disease which involves the mutations in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene. CF involves in the inflammatory processes and is considered as a multisystem disorder that is not confined to lungs, but it also affects other vital organs that leads to numerous co-morbidities. The respiratory disorder in the CF results in mortality and morbidity which is characterized by series of serious events involving mucus hypersecretion, microbial infections, airways obstruction, inflammation, destruction of epithelium, tissue remodeling and terminal lung diseases. Mucins are the high molecular weight glycoproteins important for the viscoelastic properties of the mucus, play a significant role in the disease mechanisms. Determining the functional association between the CFTR and mucins might help to identify the putative target for specific therapeutic approach. In fact, furin enzyme which helps in the entry of novel COVID-19 virus into the cell, is upregulated in CF and this can also serve as a potential target for CF treatment. Moreover, the use of nano-formulations for CF treatment is an area of research being widely studied as they have also demonstrated promising outcomes. The in-depth knowledge of non-coding RNAs like miRNAs and lncRNAs and their functional association with CFTR gene expression and mutation can provide a different range of opportunity to identify the promising therapeutic approaches for CF.
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15
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Abstract
Because CFTR gene studies now represent one of the most frequent genetic analyses routinely performed worldwide, the number of rare CFTR variants identified in various clinical situations, regularly increases. To provide appropriate diagnosis and prognosis to CF patients as well as appropriate genetic counseling to families, the clinical impact and the phenotypic spectrum of variants identified by diagnostic techniques need to be characterized. Three complementary locus specific databases, called CFTR1, CFTR2 and CFTR-France were developed to address these issues. Besides, the growing knowledge of the CF pathophysiology and the technical evolution in molecular biology allowed to identify candidate modifier genes, regulatory loci, epigenetic profiles and trans-regulators that could help to refine genotype-phenotype correlations at the individual level. These different factors may contribute to the large phenotypic variability between patients with CF, even when they carry identical CFTR variants, regarding lung function, meconium ileus susceptibility or the risk for developing CFTR-related diabetes and liver disease. Finally, the availability of new therapies that target the CFTR protein for numbers of CF patients led to the identification of 'good' and 'poor' responders, thus raising questions of pharmacogenetics factors that may influence treatment efficiency as a novel feature of the complexity of CF patients' management. © 2020 French Society of Pediatrics. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.
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16
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Martin N, Bergougnoux A, Baatallah N, Chevalier B, Varilh J, Baux D, Costes B, Fanen P, Raynal C, Sermet-Gaudelus I, Girodon E, Taulan-Cadars M, Hinzpeter A. Exon identity influences splicing induced by exonic variants and in silico prediction efficacy. J Cyst Fibros 2020; 20:464-472. [PMID: 33341408 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcf.2020.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2020] [Revised: 09/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Minigenes and in silico prediction tools are commonly used to assess the impact on splicing of CFTR variants. Exon skipping is often neglected though it could impact the efficacy of targeted therapies. The aim of the study was to identify exon skipping associated with CFTR variants and to evaluate in silico predictions of seven freely available software. METHODS CFTR basal exon skipping was evaluated on endogenous mRNA extracted from non-CF nasal cells and on two CFTR minigene banks. In silico tools and minigene systems were used to evaluate the impact of CFTR exonic variants on exon skipping. RESULTS Data showed that out of 65 CFTR variants tested, 26 enhanced exon skipping and that in silico prediction efficacy was of 50%-66%. Some in silico tools presented predictions with a bias towards the occurrence of splicing events while others presented a bias towards the absence of splicing events (non-detection including true negatives and false negatives). Classification of exons depending on their basal exon skipping level increased prediction rates up to 80%. CONCLUSION This study indicates that taking basal exon skipping into account could orientate the choice of the in silico tools to improve prediction rates. It also highlights the need to validate effects using in vitro assays or mRNA studies in patients. Eventually, it shows that variant-guided therapy should also target exon skipping associated with variants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natacha Martin
- INSERM, U955, Institut de Recherche Henri Mondor, IMRB, Créteil, France
| | - Anne Bergougnoux
- CHU de Montpellier, Laboratoire de Génétique Moléculaire, Montpellier, France; Université de Montpellier, Laboratoire de Génétique de Maladies Rares, EA7402 Montpellier, France
| | - Nesrine Baatallah
- INSERM U1151, Institut Necker Enfants Malades, INEM, Paris, France; Université Paris Descartes, Paris, France
| | - Benoit Chevalier
- INSERM U1151, Institut Necker Enfants Malades, INEM, Paris, France; Université Paris Descartes, Paris, France
| | - Jessica Varilh
- Université de Montpellier, Laboratoire de Génétique de Maladies Rares, EA7402 Montpellier, France
| | - David Baux
- CHU de Montpellier, Laboratoire de Génétique Moléculaire, Montpellier, France; Université de Montpellier, Laboratoire de Génétique de Maladies Rares, EA7402 Montpellier, France
| | - Bruno Costes
- INSERM, U955, Institut de Recherche Henri Mondor, IMRB, Créteil, France
| | - Pascale Fanen
- INSERM, U955, Institut de Recherche Henri Mondor, IMRB, Créteil, France; Department of Genetics, GH Henri Mondor, APHP, Créteil, France
| | - Caroline Raynal
- CHU de Montpellier, Laboratoire de Génétique Moléculaire, Montpellier, France; Université de Montpellier, Laboratoire de Génétique de Maladies Rares, EA7402 Montpellier, France
| | - Isabelle Sermet-Gaudelus
- INSERM U1151, Institut Necker Enfants Malades, INEM, Paris, France; Université Paris Descartes, Paris, France
| | - Emmanuelle Girodon
- INSERM U1151, Institut Necker Enfants Malades, INEM, Paris, France; Laboratoire de Génétique et Biologie Moléculaires, Hôpital Cochin, APHP Centre-Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Magali Taulan-Cadars
- Université de Montpellier, Laboratoire de Génétique de Maladies Rares, EA7402 Montpellier, France.
| | - Alexandre Hinzpeter
- INSERM U1151, Institut Necker Enfants Malades, INEM, Paris, France; Université Paris Descartes, Paris, France.
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De Palma FDE, Raia V, Kroemer G, Maiuri MC. The Multifaceted Roles of MicroRNAs in Cystic Fibrosis. Diagnostics (Basel) 2020; 10:E1102. [PMID: 33348555 PMCID: PMC7765910 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics10121102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Revised: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a lifelong disorder affecting 1 in 3500 live births worldwide. It is a monogenetic autosomal recessive disease caused by loss-of-function mutations in the gene encoding the chloride channel cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR), the impairment of which leads to ionic disequilibria in exocrine organs. This translates into a chronic multisystemic disease characterized by airway obstruction, respiratory infections, and pancreatic insufficiency as well as hepatobiliary and gastrointestinal dysfunction. Molecular characterization of the mutational heterogeneity of CFTR (affected by more than 2000 variants) improved the understanding and management of CF. However, these CFTR variants are linked to different clinical manifestations and phenotypes, and they affect response to treatments. Expanding evidence suggests that multisystemic disease affects CF pathology via impairing either CFTR or proteins regulated by CFTR. Thus, altering the expression of miRNAs in vivo could constitute an appealing strategy for developing new CF therapies. In this review, we will first describe the pathophysiology and clinical management of CF. Then, we will summarize the current knowledge on altered miRNAs in CF patients, with a focus on the miRNAs involved in the deregulation of CFTR and in the modulation of inflammation. We will highlight recent findings on the potential utility of measuring circulating miRNAs in CF as diagnostic, prognostic, and predictive biomarkers. Finally, we will provide an overview on potential miRNA-based therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatima Domenica Elisa De Palma
- Equipe 11 Labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, INSERM UMRS 1138, Sorbonne Université, Université of Paris, 75006 Paris, France;
- Metabolomics and Cell Biology Platforms, Gustave Roussy Comprehensive Cancer Institute, 94805 Villejuif, France
- CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate, 80145 Naples, Italy
| | - Valeria Raia
- Pediatric Unit, Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Regional Cystic Fibrosis Center, Federico II University Naples, 80131 Naples, Italy;
| | - Guido Kroemer
- Equipe 11 Labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, INSERM UMRS 1138, Sorbonne Université, Université of Paris, 75006 Paris, France;
- Metabolomics and Cell Biology Platforms, Gustave Roussy Comprehensive Cancer Institute, 94805 Villejuif, France
- Suzhou Institute for Systems Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou 215123, China
- Karolinska Institutet, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, 17176 Stockholm, Sweden
- Pôle de Biologie, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, AP-HP, 75015 Paris, France
- Institut Universitaire de France, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Maria Chiara Maiuri
- Equipe 11 Labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, INSERM UMRS 1138, Sorbonne Université, Université of Paris, 75006 Paris, France;
- Metabolomics and Cell Biology Platforms, Gustave Roussy Comprehensive Cancer Institute, 94805 Villejuif, France
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18
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Pommier A, Varilh J, Bleuse S, Delétang K, Bonini J, Bergougnoux A, Brochiero E, Koenig M, Claustres M, Taulan-Cadars M. miRNA repertoires of cystic fibrosis ex vivo models highlight miR-181a and miR-101 that regulate WISP1 expression. J Pathol 2020; 253:186-197. [PMID: 33095908 DOI: 10.1002/path.5571] [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] [Received: 06/25/2019] [Revised: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF), a genetic disorder, is characterized by chronic lung disease. Small non-coding RNAs are key regulators of gene expression and participate in various processes, which are dysregulated in CF; however, they remain poorly studied. Here, we determined the complete microRNAs (miRNAs) expression pattern in three CF ex vivo models. The miRNA profiles of air-liquid interface cultures of airway epithelia (bronchi, nasal cells, and nasal polyps) samples from patients with CF and non-CF controls were obtained by deep sequencing. Compared with non-CF controls, several miRNAs were deregulated in CF samples; for instance, miR-181a-5p and the miR-449 family were upregulated. Moreover, mature miRNAs often showed variations (i.e. isomiRs) relative to their reference sequence, such as miR-101, suggesting that miRNAs consist of heterogeneous repertoires of multiple isoforms with different effects on gene expression. Analysis of miR-181a-5p and miR-101-3p roles indicated that they regulate the expression of WISP1, a key component of cell proliferation/migration programs. We showed that miR-101 and miR-181a-5p participated in aberrant recapitulation of wound healing programs by controlling WISP1 mRNA and protein level. Our miRNA expression data bring new insights into CF physiopathology and define new potential therapeutic targets in CF. © 2020 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Pommier
- Université de Montpellier, Laboratoire de Génétique de Maladies Rares EA7402, Montpellier, France
| | - Jessica Varilh
- Université de Montpellier, Laboratoire de Génétique de Maladies Rares EA7402, Montpellier, France
| | - Solenne Bleuse
- Université de Montpellier, Laboratoire de Génétique de Maladies Rares EA7402, Montpellier, France
| | - Karine Delétang
- Université de Montpellier, Laboratoire de Génétique de Maladies Rares EA7402, Montpellier, France
| | - Jennifer Bonini
- Université de Montpellier, Laboratoire de Génétique de Maladies Rares EA7402, Montpellier, France
| | - Anne Bergougnoux
- Université de Montpellier, Laboratoire de Génétique de Maladies Rares EA7402, Montpellier, France.,CHU de Montpellier, Laboratoire de Génétique Moléculaire, Montpellier, France
| | - Emmanuelle Brochiero
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montréal, QC, Canada.,Département de Médecine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Michel Koenig
- Université de Montpellier, Laboratoire de Génétique de Maladies Rares EA7402, Montpellier, France.,CHU de Montpellier, Laboratoire de Génétique Moléculaire, Montpellier, France
| | - Mireille Claustres
- Université de Montpellier, Laboratoire de Génétique de Maladies Rares EA7402, Montpellier, France
| | - Magali Taulan-Cadars
- Université de Montpellier, Laboratoire de Génétique de Maladies Rares EA7402, Montpellier, France
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19
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Biswas P, Mukhopadhyay A. Identifying cancer-associated modules from microRNA co-expression networks: a multiobjective evolutionary approach. Soft comput 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s00500-020-05025-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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20
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Fonseca C, Bicker J, Alves G, Falcão A, Fortuna A. Cystic fibrosis: Physiopathology and the latest pharmacological treatments. Pharmacol Res 2020; 162:105267. [PMID: 33127556 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.105267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2020] [Revised: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 10/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a lethal autosomal recessive genetic disease, caused by a mutation in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator gene (CFTR), which primarily affects the lungs and digestive system. This gene encodes the CFTR protein, a distinctive membrane transporter of the ATP-binding cassette (ABC) superfamily. It functions as a chloride channel, allowing the balance and transport of chloride through the apical membrane of epithelial cells. Due to its ubiquitous location, mutations in the CFTR gene trigger multiple changes in ion transport and metabolic pathways, affecting various organs, as it will be herein explained. Pulmonary impairment is the most characteristic comorbidity of CF and respiratory failure is the main cause of death. This review presents the importance of an early diagnosis of CF to establish, as soon as possible, a primary therapy for symptomatic prevention and relief. It also mentions new therapeutic approaches that include CFTR modulators. They are correctors and/or potentiators of the deficient CFTR channel. In an attempt to overcome the disadvantages of CFTR modulators, the application of biotechnology techniques is addressed, such as gene therapy, gene editing, RNA therapy and therapeutic microRNAs. The potential of the intranasal administration route is another presented aspect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Fonseca
- University of Coimbra, Faculty of Pharmacy, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Joana Bicker
- University of Coimbra, Faculty of Pharmacy, Coimbra, Portugal; University of Coimbra, Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Gilberto Alves
- CICS-UBI - Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Amílcar Falcão
- University of Coimbra, Faculty of Pharmacy, Coimbra, Portugal; University of Coimbra, Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Fortuna
- University of Coimbra, Faculty of Pharmacy, Coimbra, Portugal; University of Coimbra, Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research, Coimbra, Portugal.
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21
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Fabbri E, Tamanini A, Jakova T, Gasparello J, Manicardi A, Corradini R, Finotti A, Borgatti M, Lampronti I, Munari S, Dechecchi MC, Cabrini G, Gambari R. Treatment of human airway epithelial Calu-3 cells with a peptide-nucleic acid (PNA) targeting the microRNA miR-101-3p is associated with increased expression of the cystic fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator () gene. Eur J Med Chem 2020; 209:112876. [PMID: 33127171 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2020.112876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Revised: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Since the identification of microRNAs (miRNAs) involved in the regulation of Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator (CFTR) gene, miRNAs known to down-regulate the expression of the CFTR and associated proteins have been investigated as potential therapeutic targets. Here we show that miR-101-3p, targeting the 3'-UTR sequence of the CFTR mRNA, can be selectively inhibited by a peptide nucleic acid (PNA) carrying a full complementary sequence. With respect to clinical relevance of microRNA targeting, it is expected that reduction in concentration of miRNAs (the anti-miRNA approach) could be associated with increasing amounts of target mRNAs. Consistently to this hypothesis, we report that PNA-mediated inhibition of miR-101-3p was accompanied by CFTR up-regulation. Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) was performed in order to verify the effects of the anti-miR-101-3p PNA on the Calu-3 miRNome. Upon inhibition of miR-101-3p we observed a fold change (FC) expression <2 of the majority of miRNAs (403/479, 84.13%), whereas we identified a list of dysregulated miRNAs, suggesting that specific miRNA inhibition (in our case miR-101-3p) might be accompanied by alteration of expression of other miRNAs, some of them known to be involved in Cystic Fibrosis (CF), such as miR-155-5p and miR-125b-5p.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrica Fabbri
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Anna Tamanini
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Pathology and Diagnostics, University Hospital of Verona, Italy
| | - Tiziana Jakova
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Section of Clinical Biochemistry, Italy
| | - Jessica Gasparello
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Alex Manicardi
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Section of Clinical Biochemistry, Italy; Department of Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry, University of Ghent, Belgium
| | - Roberto Corradini
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Section of Clinical Biochemistry, Italy
| | - Alessia Finotti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Monica Borgatti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Ilaria Lampronti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Silvia Munari
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Pathology and Diagnostics, University Hospital of Verona, Italy
| | | | - Giulio Cabrini
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement, University of Verona, Verona, Italy; Research Center for Innovative Therapies of Cystic Fibrosis, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Roberto Gambari
- Research Center for Innovative Therapies of Cystic Fibrosis, University of Ferrara, Italy.
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22
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Briottet M, Shum M, Urbach V. The Role of Specialized Pro-Resolving Mediators in Cystic Fibrosis Airways Disease. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:1290. [PMID: 32982730 PMCID: PMC7493015 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.01290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is a recessive genetic disease due to mutations of the Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator (CFTR) gene encoding the CFTR chloride channel. The ion transport abnormalities related to CFTR mutation generate a dehydrated airway surface liquid (ASL) layer, which is responsible for an altered mucociliary clearance, favors infections and persistent inflammation that lead to progressive lung destruction and respiratory failure. The inflammatory response is normally followed by an active resolution phase to return to tissue homeostasis, which involves specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs). SPMs promote resolution of inflammation, clearance of microbes, tissue regeneration and reduce pain, but do not evoke unwanted immunosuppression. The airways of CF patients showed a decreased production of SPMs even in the absence of pathogens. SPMs levels in the airway correlated with CF patients' lung function. The prognosis for CF has greatly improved but there remains a critical need for more effective treatments that prevent excessive inflammation, lung damage, and declining pulmonary function for all CF patients. This review aims to highlight the recent understanding of CF airway inflammation and the possible impact of SPMs on functions that are altered in CF airways.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Valerie Urbach
- Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale (Inserm) U955, Institut Mondor de Recherche Biomédicale (IMRB), Créteil, France
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23
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Beswick E, Amich J, Gago S. Factoring in the Complexity of the Cystic Fibrosis Lung to Understand Aspergillus fumigatus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa Interactions. Pathogens 2020; 9:pathogens9080639. [PMID: 32781694 PMCID: PMC7460534 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens9080639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Revised: 07/25/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Pseudomonas aeruginosa has long been established as the most prevalent respiratory pathogen in Cystic Fibrosis (CF) patients, with opportunistic infection causing profound morbidity and mortality. Recently, Aspergillus fumigatus has also been recognised as a key contributor to CF lung deterioration, being consistently associated with decreased lung function and worsened prognosis in these patients. As clinical evidence for the common occurrence of combined infection with these two pathogens increases, research into the mechanism and consequences of their interaction is becoming more relevant. Clinical evidence suggests a synergistic effect of combined infection, which translates into a poorer prognosis for the patients. In vitro results from the laboratory have identified a variety of possible synergistic and antagonistic interactions between A. fumigatus and P. aeruginosa. Here, we present a comprehensive overview of the complex environment of the CF lung and discuss how it needs to be considered to determine the exact molecular interactions that A. fumigatus and P. aeruginosa undergo during combined infection and their effects on the host.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Beswick
- Manchester Fungal Infection Group, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Core Technology Facility, Grafton Street, Manchester M13 9NT, UK
- Academic Unit of Medical Education, Medical School, University of Sheffield, Beech Hill Road, Broomhall, Sheffield S10 2TG, UK;
| | - Jorge Amich
- Manchester Fungal Infection Group, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Core Technology Facility, Grafton Street, Manchester M13 9NT, UK
- Correspondence: (J.A.); (S.G.)
| | - Sara Gago
- Manchester Fungal Infection Group, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Core Technology Facility, Grafton Street, Manchester M13 9NT, UK
- Correspondence: (J.A.); (S.G.)
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24
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Sousa L, Pankonien I, Clarke LA, Silva I, Kunzelmann K, Amaral MD. KLF4 Acts as a wt-CFTR Suppressor through an AKT-Mediated Pathway. Cells 2020; 9:cells9071607. [PMID: 32630830 PMCID: PMC7408019 DOI: 10.3390/cells9071607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2020] [Revised: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is caused by >2000 mutations in the CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene, but one mutation-F508del-occurs in ~80% of patients worldwide. Besides its main function as an anion channel, the CFTR protein has been implicated in epithelial differentiation, tissue regeneration, and, when dysfunctional, cancer. However, the mechanisms that regulate such relationships are not fully elucidated. Krüppel-like factors (KLFs) are a family of transcription factors (TFs) playing central roles in development, stem cell differentiation, and proliferation. Herein, we hypothesized that these TFs might have an impact on CFTR expression and function, being its missing link to differentiation. Our results indicate that KLF4 (but not KLF2 nor KLF5) is upregulated in CF vs. non-CF cells and that it negatively regulates wt-CFTR expression and function. Of note, F508del-CFTR expressing cells are insensitive to KLF4 modulation. Next, we investigated which KLF4-related pathways have an effect on CFTR. Our data also show that KLF4 modulates wt-CFTR (but not F508del-CFTR) via both the serine/threonine kinase AKT1 (AKT) and glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (GSK3β) signaling. While AKT acts positively, GSK3β is a negative regulator of CFTR. This crosstalk between wt-CFTR and KLF4 via AKT/ GSK3β signaling, which is disrupted in CF, constitutes a novel mechanism linking CFTR to the epithelial differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis Sousa
- BioISI – Biosystems & Integrative Sciences Institute, Faculty of Sciences, University of Lisbon, 1749-016 Lisbon, Portugal; (L.S.); (I.P.); (L.A.C.); (I.S.)
| | - Ines Pankonien
- BioISI – Biosystems & Integrative Sciences Institute, Faculty of Sciences, University of Lisbon, 1749-016 Lisbon, Portugal; (L.S.); (I.P.); (L.A.C.); (I.S.)
| | - Luka A Clarke
- BioISI – Biosystems & Integrative Sciences Institute, Faculty of Sciences, University of Lisbon, 1749-016 Lisbon, Portugal; (L.S.); (I.P.); (L.A.C.); (I.S.)
| | - Iris Silva
- BioISI – Biosystems & Integrative Sciences Institute, Faculty of Sciences, University of Lisbon, 1749-016 Lisbon, Portugal; (L.S.); (I.P.); (L.A.C.); (I.S.)
| | - Karl Kunzelmann
- Department of Physiology, University of Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany;
| | - Margarida D Amaral
- BioISI – Biosystems & Integrative Sciences Institute, Faculty of Sciences, University of Lisbon, 1749-016 Lisbon, Portugal; (L.S.); (I.P.); (L.A.C.); (I.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +351-21-750-08-61; Fax: +351-21-750-00-88
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25
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Gróf I, Bocsik A, Harazin A, Santa-Maria AR, Vizsnyiczai G, Barna L, Kiss L, Fűr G, Rakonczay Z, Ambrus R, Szabó-Révész P, Gosselet F, Jaikumpun P, Szabó H, Zsembery Á, Deli MA. The Effect of Sodium Bicarbonate, a Beneficial Adjuvant Molecule in Cystic Fibrosis, on Bronchial Epithelial Cells Expressing a Wild-Type or Mutant CFTR Channel. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21114024. [PMID: 32512832 PMCID: PMC7312297 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21114024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Revised: 05/25/2020] [Accepted: 05/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Clinical and experimental results with inhaled sodium bicarbonate as an adjuvant therapy in cystic fibrosis (CF) are promising due to its mucolytic and bacteriostatic properties, but its direct effect has not been studied on respiratory epithelial cells. Our aim was to establish and characterize co-culture models of human CF bronchial epithelial (CFBE) cell lines expressing a wild-type (WT) or mutant (deltaF508) CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) channel with human vascular endothelial cells and investigate the effects of bicarbonate. Vascular endothelial cells induced better barrier properties in CFBE cells as reflected by the higher resistance and lower permeability values. Activation of CFTR by cAMP decreased the electrical resistance in WT but not in mutant CFBE cell layers confirming the presence and absence of functional channels, respectively. Sodium bicarbonate (100 mM) was well-tolerated by CFBE cells: it slightly reduced the impedance of WT but not that of the mutant CFBE cells. Sodium bicarbonate significantly decreased the more-alkaline intracellular pH of the mutant CFBE cells, while the barrier properties of the models were only minimally changed. These observations indicate that sodium bicarbonate is beneficial to deltaF508-CFTR expressing CFBE cells. Thus, sodium bicarbonate may have a direct therapeutic effect on the bronchial epithelium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilona Gróf
- Institute of Biophysics, Biological Research Centre, H-6726 Szeged, Hungary; (I.G.); (A.B.); (A.H.); (A.R.S.-M.); (G.V.); (L.B.)
- Doctoral School of Biology, University of Szeged, H-6720 Szeged, Hungary
| | - Alexandra Bocsik
- Institute of Biophysics, Biological Research Centre, H-6726 Szeged, Hungary; (I.G.); (A.B.); (A.H.); (A.R.S.-M.); (G.V.); (L.B.)
| | - András Harazin
- Institute of Biophysics, Biological Research Centre, H-6726 Szeged, Hungary; (I.G.); (A.B.); (A.H.); (A.R.S.-M.); (G.V.); (L.B.)
| | - Ana Raquel Santa-Maria
- Institute of Biophysics, Biological Research Centre, H-6726 Szeged, Hungary; (I.G.); (A.B.); (A.H.); (A.R.S.-M.); (G.V.); (L.B.)
- Doctoral School of Biology, University of Szeged, H-6720 Szeged, Hungary
| | - Gaszton Vizsnyiczai
- Institute of Biophysics, Biological Research Centre, H-6726 Szeged, Hungary; (I.G.); (A.B.); (A.H.); (A.R.S.-M.); (G.V.); (L.B.)
| | - Lilla Barna
- Institute of Biophysics, Biological Research Centre, H-6726 Szeged, Hungary; (I.G.); (A.B.); (A.H.); (A.R.S.-M.); (G.V.); (L.B.)
- Doctoral School of Biology, University of Szeged, H-6720 Szeged, Hungary
| | - Lóránd Kiss
- Department of Pathophysiology, University of Szeged, H-6725 Szeged, Hungary; (L.K.); (G.F.); (Z.R.J.)
| | - Gabriella Fűr
- Department of Pathophysiology, University of Szeged, H-6725 Szeged, Hungary; (L.K.); (G.F.); (Z.R.J.)
| | - Zoltán Rakonczay
- Department of Pathophysiology, University of Szeged, H-6725 Szeged, Hungary; (L.K.); (G.F.); (Z.R.J.)
| | - Rita Ambrus
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Technology and Regulatory Affairs, University of Szeged, H-6720 Szeged, Hungary; (R.A.); (P S.-R.)
| | - Piroska Szabó-Révész
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Technology and Regulatory Affairs, University of Szeged, H-6720 Szeged, Hungary; (R.A.); (P S.-R.)
| | - Fabien Gosselet
- Blood-Brain Barrier Laboratory, UR 2465, Artois University, F-62300 Lens, France;
| | - Pongsiri Jaikumpun
- Department of Oral Biology, Semmelweis University, H-1089 Budapest, Hungary; (P.J.); (Á.Z.)
| | - Hajnalka Szabó
- Department of Pediatrics, Fejér County Szent György University Teaching Hospital, H-8000 Székesfehérvár, Hungary;
| | - Ákos Zsembery
- Department of Oral Biology, Semmelweis University, H-1089 Budapest, Hungary; (P.J.); (Á.Z.)
| | - Mária A. Deli
- Institute of Biophysics, Biological Research Centre, H-6726 Szeged, Hungary; (I.G.); (A.B.); (A.H.); (A.R.S.-M.); (G.V.); (L.B.)
- Correspondence:
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26
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The Role of MicroRNA in the Airway Surface Liquid Homeostasis. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21113848. [PMID: 32481719 PMCID: PMC7312818 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21113848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2020] [Revised: 05/24/2020] [Accepted: 05/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Mucociliary clearance, mediated by a coordinated function of cilia bathing in the airway surface liquid (ASL) on the surface of airway epithelium, protects the host from inhaled pathogens and is an essential component of the innate immunity. ASL is composed of the superficial mucus layer and the deeper periciliary liquid. Ion channels, transporters, and pumps coordinate the transcellular and paracellular movement of ions and water to maintain the ASL volume and mucus hydration. microRNA (miRNA) is a class of non-coding, short single-stranded RNA regulating gene expression by post-transcriptional mechanisms. miRNAs have been increasingly recognized as essential regulators of ion channels and transporters responsible for ASL homeostasis. miRNAs also influence the airway host defense. We summarize the most up-to-date information on the role of miRNAs in ASL homeostasis and host-pathogen interactions in the airway and discuss concepts for miRNA-directed therapy.
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27
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Ramelli SC, Comer BS, McLendon JM, Sandy LL, Ferretti AP, Barrington R, Sparks J, Matar M, Fewell J, Gerthoffer WT. Nanoparticle Delivery of Anti-inflammatory LNA Oligonucleotides Prevents Airway Inflammation in a HDM Model of Asthma. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2020; 19:1000-1014. [PMID: 32044723 PMCID: PMC7013130 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2019.12.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2019] [Revised: 10/16/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
To address the problem of poor asthma control due to drug resistance, an antisense oligonucleotide complementary to mmu-miR-145a-5p (antimiR-145) was tested in a house dust mite mouse model of mild/moderate asthma. miR-145 was targeted to reduce inflammation, regulate epithelial-mesenchymal transitions, and promote differentiation of structural cells. In addition, several chemical variations of a nontargeting oligonucleotide were tested to define sequence-dependent effects of the miRNA antagonist. After intravenous administration, oligonucleotides complexed with a pegylated cationic lipid nanoparticle distributed to most cells in the lung parenchyma but were not present in smooth muscle or the mucosal epithelium of the upper airways. Treatment with antimiR-145 and a nontargeting oligonucleotide both reduced eosinophilia, reduced obstructive airway remodeling, reduced mucosal metaplasia, and reduced CD68 immunoreactivity. Poly(A) RNA-seq verified that antimiR-145 increased levels of many miR-145 target transcripts. Genes upregulated in human asthma and the mouse model of asthma were downregulated by oligonucleotide treatments. However, both oligonucleotides significantly upregulated many genes of interferon signaling pathways. These results establish effective lung delivery and efficacy of locked nucleic acid/DNA oligonucleotides administered intravenously, and suggest that some of the beneficial effects of oligonucleotide therapy of lung inflammation may be due to normalization of interferon response pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina C Ramelli
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA
| | - Brian S Comer
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA
| | - Jared M McLendon
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA
| | - Lydia L Sandy
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA
| | - Andrew P Ferretti
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA
| | - Robert Barrington
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA
| | - Jeff Sparks
- Celsion Corporation, 601 Genome Way, Huntsville, AL, USA
| | - Majed Matar
- Celsion Corporation, 601 Genome Way, Huntsville, AL, USA
| | - Jason Fewell
- Celsion Corporation, 601 Genome Way, Huntsville, AL, USA
| | - William T Gerthoffer
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA.
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28
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De Santi C, Fernández Fernández E, Gaul R, Vencken S, Glasgow A, Oglesby IK, Hurley K, Hawkins F, Mitash N, Mu F, Raoof R, Henshall DC, Cutrona MB, Simpson JC, Harvey BJ, Linnane B, McNally P, Cryan SA, MacLoughlin R, Swiatecka-Urban A, Greene CM. Precise Targeting of miRNA Sites Restores CFTR Activity in CF Bronchial Epithelial Cells. Mol Ther 2020; 28:1190-1199. [PMID: 32059764 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2020.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2019] [Accepted: 03/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs that are overexpressed in cystic fibrosis (CF) bronchial epithelial cells (BEC) negatively regulate CFTR and nullify the beneficial effects of CFTR modulators. We hypothesized that it is possible to reverse microRNA-mediated inhibition of CFTR using CFTR-specific target site blockers (TSBs) and to develop a drug-device combination inhalation therapy for CF. Lead microRNA expression was quantified in a series of human CF and non-CF samples and in vitro models. A panel of CFTR 3' untranslated region (UTR)-specific locked nucleic acid antisense oligonucleotide TSBs was assessed for their ability to increase CFTR expression. Their effects on CFTR activity alone or in combination with CFTR modulators were measured in CF BEC models. TSB encapsulation in poly-lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) nanoparticles was assessed as a proof of principle of delivery into CF BECs. TSBs targeting the CFTR 3' UTR 298-305:miR-145-5p or 166-173:miR-223-3p sites increased CFTR expression and anion channel activity and enhanced the effects of ivacaftor/lumacaftor or ivacaftor/tezacaftor in CF BECs. Biocompatible PLGA-TSB nanoparticles promoted CFTR expression in primary BECs and retained desirable biophysical characteristics following nebulization. Alone or in combination with CFTR modulators, aerosolized CFTR-targeting TSBs encapsulated in PLGA nanoparticles could represent a promising drug-device combination therapy for the treatment for CFTR dysfunction in the lung.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara De Santi
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 9, Ireland.
| | | | - Rachel Gaul
- School of Pharmacy and Tissue Engineering Research Group, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Sebastian Vencken
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Arlene Glasgow
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Irene K Oglesby
- Department of Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Killian Hurley
- Department of Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Finn Hawkins
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Boston University and Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA 02118, USA; The Pulmonary Center and Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Nilay Mitash
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Fangping Mu
- Center for Research Computing, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Rana Raoof
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - David C Henshall
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Meritxell B Cutrona
- School of Biology and Environmental Science, Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Jeremy C Simpson
- School of Biology and Environmental Science, Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Brian J Harvey
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Barry Linnane
- University Hospital Limerick, Dooradoyle, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Paul McNally
- Department of Pediatrics, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 2, Ireland; National Children's Research Centre, Children's Health Ireland at Crumlin, Dublin 12, Ireland
| | - Sally Ann Cryan
- School of Pharmacy and Tissue Engineering Research Group, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | | | | | - Catherine M Greene
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 9, Ireland
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29
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Santi CD, Greene CM. Challenges facing microRNA therapeutics for cystic fibrosis lung disease. Epigenomics 2020; 12:179-181. [DOI: 10.2217/epi-2019-0395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Chiara De Santi
- Lung Biology Group, Department of Clinical Microbiology, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Catherine M Greene
- Lung Biology Group, Department of Clinical Microbiology, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
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30
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Transforming Growth Factor-β1 Selectively Recruits microRNAs to the RNA-Induced Silencing Complex and Degrades CFTR mRNA under Permissive Conditions in Human Bronchial Epithelial Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20194933. [PMID: 31590401 PMCID: PMC6801718 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20194933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2019] [Revised: 09/27/2019] [Accepted: 10/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations in the Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator (CFTR) gene lead to cystic fibrosis (CF). The most common mutation F508del inhibits folding and processing of CFTR protein. FDA-approved correctors rescue the biosynthetic processing of F508del-CFTR protein, while potentiators improve the rescued CFTR channel function. Transforming growth factor (TGF-β1), overexpressed in many CF patients, blocks corrector/potentiator rescue by inhibiting CFTR mRNA in vitro. Increased TGF-β1 signaling and acquired CFTR dysfunction are present in other lung diseases. To study the mechanism of TGF-β1 repression of CFTR, we used molecular, biochemical, and functional approaches in primary human bronchial epithelial cells from over 50 donors. TGF-β1 destabilized CFTR mRNA in cells from lungs with chronic disease, including CF, and impaired F508del-CFTR rescue by new-generation correctors. TGF-β1 increased the active pool of selected micro(mi)RNAs validated as CFTR inhibitors, recruiting them to the RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC). Expression of F508del-CFTR globally modulated TGF-β1-induced changes in the miRNA landscape, creating a permissive environment required for degradation of F508del-CFTR mRNA. In conclusion, TGF-β1 may impede the full benefit of corrector/potentiator therapy in CF patients. Studying miRNA recruitment to RISC under disease-specific conditions may help to better characterize the miRNAs utilized by TGF-β1 to destabilize CFTR mRNA.
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31
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Sasaki S, Sun R, Bui HH, Crosby JR, Monia BP, Guo S. Steric Inhibition of 5' UTR Regulatory Elements Results in Upregulation of Human CFTR. Mol Ther 2019; 27:1749-1757. [PMID: 31351782 PMCID: PMC6822282 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2019.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2019] [Revised: 06/25/2019] [Accepted: 06/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an autosomal recessive monogenic disease caused by mutations in the CFTR gene. Therapeutic approaches that are focused on correcting CFTR protein face the challenge of the heterogeneity in CFTR mutations and resulting defects. Thus, while several small molecules directed at CFTR show benefit in the clinic for subsets of CF patients, these drugs cannot treat all CF patients. Additionally, the clinical benefit from treatment with these modulators could be enhanced with novel therapies. To address this unmet need, we utilized an approach to increase CFTR protein levels through antisense oligonucleotide (ASO)-mediated steric inhibition of 5′ UTR regulatory elements. We identified ASOs to upregulate CFTR protein expression and confirmed the regulatory role of the sites amenable to ASO-mediated upregulation. Two ASOs were investigated further, and both increased CFTR protein expression and function in cell lines and primary human bronchial epithelial cells with distinct CF genotypes. ASO treatment further increased CFTR function in almost all CF genotypes tested on top of treatment with the FDA approved drug Symdeko (ivacaftor and tezacaftor). Thus, we present a novel approach to CFTR therapeutic intervention, through ASO-mediated modulation of translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shruti Sasaki
- Ionis Pharmaceuticals, 2855 Gazelle Court, Carlsbad, CA 92010, USA
| | - Rachel Sun
- University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, 500 S State St., Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Huynh-Hoa Bui
- Ionis Pharmaceuticals, 2855 Gazelle Court, Carlsbad, CA 92010, USA
| | - Jeff R Crosby
- Ionis Pharmaceuticals, 2855 Gazelle Court, Carlsbad, CA 92010, USA
| | - Brett P Monia
- Ionis Pharmaceuticals, 2855 Gazelle Court, Carlsbad, CA 92010, USA
| | - Shuling Guo
- Ionis Pharmaceuticals, 2855 Gazelle Court, Carlsbad, CA 92010, USA.
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32
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Finotti A, Fabbri E, Lampronti I, Gasparello J, Borgatti M, Gambari R. MicroRNAs and Long Non-coding RNAs in Genetic Diseases. Mol Diagn Ther 2019; 23:155-171. [PMID: 30610665 PMCID: PMC6469593 DOI: 10.1007/s40291-018-0380-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Since the discovery and classification of non-coding RNAs, their roles have gained great attention. In this respect, microRNAs and long non-coding RNAs have been firmly demonstrated to be linked to regulation of gene expression and onset of human diseases, including rare genetic diseases; therefore they are suitable targets for therapeutic intervention. This issue, in the context of rare genetic diseases, is being considered by an increasing number of research groups and is of key interest to the health community. In the case of rare genetic diseases, the possibility of developing personalized therapy in precision medicine has attracted the attention of researchers and clinicians involved in developing "orphan medicinal products" and proposing these to the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Office of Orphan Products Development (OOPD) in the United States. The major focuses of these activities are the evaluation and development of products (drugs, biologics, devices, or medical foods) considered to be promising for diagnosis and/or treatment of rare diseases or conditions, including rare genetic diseases. In an increasing number of rare genetic diseases, analysis of microRNAs and long non-coding RNAs has been proven a promising strategy. These diseases include, but are not limited to, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, cystic fibrosis, Rett syndrome, and β-thalassemia. In conclusion, a large number of approaches based on targeting microRNAs and long non-coding RNAs are expected in the field of molecular diagnosis and therapy, with a facilitated technological transfer in the case of rare genetic diseases, in virtue of the existing regulation concerning these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Finotti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Section of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara n.74, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Enrica Fabbri
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Section of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara n.74, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Ilaria Lampronti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Section of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara n.74, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Jessica Gasparello
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Section of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara n.74, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Monica Borgatti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Section of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara n.74, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Roberto Gambari
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Section of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara n.74, 44121, Ferrara, Italy.
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Abstract
Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disease affecting more than 70,000 people worldwide. Caused by a mutation in the CFTR gene, cystic fibrosis can result in difficulty breathing, widespread bacterial infections, edema, malnutrition, pancreatitis, and death. Current drug-based treatments struggle to reach the site of action due to the thick mucus, and only manage symptoms such as blocked airways, lung infections, and limited ability to digest food. Nanotechnology opens up possibilities for improved treatment strategies by focusing on drug penetration through the mucus lining, eliminating resulting bacterial infections, and targeting the underlying genetic cause of the disease. In this review, we present recent nanoparticle developments for cystic fibrosis, challenges in nanomedicine therapeutics, and future research directions in gene editing and nonviral vectors for gene delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor Ong
- 1 Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Vincent Mei
- 1 Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Lin Cao
- 1 Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Kiana Lee
- 1 Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Eun Ji Chung
- 1 Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- 2 Mork Family Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- 3 Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- 4 Division of Vascular Surgery and Endovascular Repair, Department of Surgery, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- 5 Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- 6 Department of Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Bardin P, Sonneville F, Corvol H, Tabary O. Emerging microRNA Therapeutic Approaches for Cystic Fibrosis. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:1113. [PMID: 30349480 PMCID: PMC6186820 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.01113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2018] [Accepted: 09/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is caused by mutations in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene and remains the most common life-shortening diseases affecting the exocrine organs. The absence of this channel results in an imbalance of ion concentrations across the cell membrane and results in more abnormal secretion and mucus plugging in the gastrointestinal tract and in the lungs of CF patients. The direct introduction of fully functional CFTR by gene therapy has long been pursued as a therapeutical option to restore CFTR function independent of the specific CFTR mutation, but the different clinical trials failed to propose persuasive evidence of this strategy. The last ten years has led to the development of new pharmacotherapies which can activate CFTR function in a mutation-specific manner. Although approximately 2,000 different disease-associated mutations have been identified, a single codon deletion, F508del, is by far the most common and is present on at least one allele in approximately 70% of the patients in CF populations. This strategy is limited by chemistry, the knowledge on CFTR and the heterogenicity of the patients. New research efforts in CF aim to develop other therapeutical approaches to combine different strategies. Targeting RNA appears as a new and an important opportunity to modulate dysregulated biological processes. Abnormal miRNA activity has been linked to numerous diseases, and over the last decade, the critical role of miRNA in regulating biological processes has fostered interest in how miRNA binds to and interacts explicitly with the target protein. Herein, this review describes the different strategies to identify dysregulated miRNA opens up a new concept and new opportunities to correct CFTR deficiency. This review describes therapeutic applications of antisense techniques currently under investigation in CF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pauline Bardin
- INSERM UMR-S938, Centre de Recherche Saint Antoine, Faculté des Sciences, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
| | - Florence Sonneville
- INSERM UMR-S938, Centre de Recherche Saint Antoine, Faculté des Sciences, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
| | - Harriet Corvol
- INSERM UMR-S938, Centre de Recherche Saint Antoine, Faculté des Sciences, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France.,Paediatric Respiratory Department, Hôpital Trousseau, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Olivier Tabary
- INSERM UMR-S938, Centre de Recherche Saint Antoine, Faculté des Sciences, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
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Abstract
Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are an abundant class of RNAs that include small ncRNAs, long non-coding RNAs (lncRNA) and pseudogenes. The human ncRNA atlas includes thousands of these specialised RNA molecules that are further subcategorised based on their size or function. Two of the more well-known and widely studied ncRNA species are microRNAs (miRNAs) and lncRNAs. These are regulatory RNAs and their altered expression has been implicated in the pathogenesis of a variety of human diseases. Failure to express a functional cystic fibrosis (CF) transmembrane receptor (CFTR) chloride ion channel in epithelial cells underpins CF. Secondary to the CFTR defect, it is known that other pathways can be altered and these may contribute to the pathophysiology of CF lung disease in particular. For example, quantitative alterations in expression of some ncRNAs are associated with CF. In recent years, there has been a series of published studies exploring ncRNA expression and function in CF. The majority have focussed principally on miRNAs, with just a handful of reports to date on lncRNAs. The present study reviews what is currently known about ncRNA expression and function in CF, and discusses the possibility of applying this knowledge to the clinical management of CF in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arlene M.A. Glasgow
- Lung Biology Group, Department of Clinical Microbiology, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Education and Research Centre, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Chiara De Santi
- Lung Biology Group, Department of Clinical Microbiology, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Education and Research Centre, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Catherine M. Greene
- Lung Biology Group, Department of Clinical Microbiology, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Education and Research Centre, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 9, Ireland
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Abstract
La mucoviscidose est la plus fréquente des maladies génétiques dans les populations d’origine caucasienne, caractérisée par des mutations du gène codant le canal chlorure CFTR. Bien que ce gène soit connu depuis 1989, les solutions thérapeutiques curatives proposées aux patients restent limitées. De nouvelles stratégies thérapeutiques sont explorées, comme celles ciblant les microARN qui participent à la régulation de l’expression d’ARN messagers cibles. Cette revue fait le point sur les travaux portant sur l’implication de ces microARN dans la mucoviscidose, notamment dans le contrôle des canaux ioniques, de l’inflammation, de l’infection et de l’obstruction bronchique, et leurs potentiels thérapeutiques.
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Fernandez Fernandez E, De Santi C, De Rose V, Greene CM. CFTR dysfunction in cystic fibrosis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Expert Rev Respir Med 2018; 12:483-492. [PMID: 29750581 DOI: 10.1080/17476348.2018.1475235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Obstructive lung diseases such as cystic fibrosis (CF) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are causes of high morbidity and mortality worldwide. CF is a multiorgan genetic disease caused by mutations in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene and is characterized by progressive chronic obstructive lung disease. Most cases of COPD are a result of noxious particles, mainly cigarette smoke but also other environmental pollutants. Areas covered: Although the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of CF and COPD differ, they do share key phenotypic features and because of these similarities there is great interest in exploring common mechanisms and/or factors affected by CFTR mutations and environmental insults involved in COPD. Various molecular, cellular and clinical studies have confirmed that CFTR protein dysfunction is common in both the CF and COPD airways. This review provides an update of our understanding of the role of dysfunctional CFTR in both respiratory diseases. Expert commentary: Drugs developed for people with CF to improve mutant CFTR function and enhance CFTR ion channel activity might also be beneficial in patients with COPD. A move toward personalized therapy using, for example, microRNA modulators in conjunction with CFTR potentiators or correctors, could enhance treatment of both diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Fernandez Fernandez
- a Lung Biology Group, Department of Clinical Microbiology , RCSI Education & Research Centre, Beaumont Hospital , Dublin 9 , Ireland
| | - Chiara De Santi
- a Lung Biology Group, Department of Clinical Microbiology , RCSI Education & Research Centre, Beaumont Hospital , Dublin 9 , Ireland
| | - Virginia De Rose
- b Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences , University of Torino , Torino , Italy
| | - Catherine M Greene
- a Lung Biology Group, Department of Clinical Microbiology , RCSI Education & Research Centre, Beaumont Hospital , Dublin 9 , Ireland
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Bergougnoux A, Taulan-Cadars M, Claustres M, Raynal C. Current and future molecular approaches in the diagnosis of cystic fibrosis. Expert Rev Respir Med 2018; 12:415-426. [PMID: 29580110 DOI: 10.1080/17476348.2018.1457438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cystic Fibrosis is among the first diseases to have general population genetic screening tests and one of the most common indications of prenatal and preimplantation genetic diagnosis for single gene disorders. During the past twenty years, thanks to the evolution of diagnostic techniques, our knowledge of CFTR genetics and pathophysiological mechanisms involved in cystic fibrosis has significantly improved. Areas covered: Sanger sequencing and quantitative methods greatly contributed to the identification of more than 2,000 sequence variations reported worldwide in the CFTR gene. We are now entering a new technological age with the generalization of high throughput approaches such as Next Generation Sequencing and Droplet Digital PCR technologies in diagnostics laboratories. These powerful technologies open up new perspectives for scanning the entire CFTR locus, exploring modifier factors that possibly influence the clinical evolution of patients, and for preimplantation and prenatal diagnosis. Expert commentary: Such breakthroughs would, however, require powerful bioinformatics tools and relevant functional tests of variants for analysis and interpretation of the resulting data. Ultimately, an optimal use of all those resources may improve patient care and therapeutic decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Bergougnoux
- a Laboratoire de Génétique Moléculaire , Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Montpellier , Montpellier , France.,b EA 7402 , Université de Montpellier , Montpellier , France
| | | | | | - Caroline Raynal
- a Laboratoire de Génétique Moléculaire , Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Montpellier , Montpellier , France
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Lutful Kabir F, Ambalavanan N, Liu G, Li P, Solomon GM, Lal CV, Mazur M, Halloran B, Szul T, Gerthoffer WT, Rowe SM, Harris WT. MicroRNA-145 Antagonism Reverses TGF-β Inhibition of F508del CFTR Correction in Airway Epithelia. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2018; 197:632-643. [PMID: 29232160 PMCID: PMC6005236 DOI: 10.1164/rccm.201704-0732oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2017] [Accepted: 12/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE MicroRNAs (miRNAs) destabilize mRNA transcripts and inhibit protein translation. miR-145 is of particular interest in cystic fibrosis (CF) as it has a direct binding site in the 3'-untranslated region of CFTR (cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator) and is upregulated by the CF genetic modifier TGF (transforming growth factor)-β. OBJECTIVES To demonstrate that miR-145 mediates TGF-β inhibition of CFTR synthesis and function in airway epithelia. METHODS Primary human CF (F508del homozygous) and non-CF airway epithelial cells were grown to terminal differentiation at the air-liquid interface on permeable supports. TGF-β (5 ng/ml), a miR-145 mimic (20 nM), and a miR-145 antagonist (20 nM) were used to manipulate CFTR function. In CF cells, lumacaftor (3 μM) and ivacaftor (10 μM) corrected mutant F508del CFTR. Quantification of CFTR mRNA, protein, and function was done by standard techniques. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS miR-145 is increased fourfold in CF BAL fluid compared with non-CF (P < 0.01) and increased 10-fold in CF primary airway epithelial cells (P < 0.01). Exogenous TGF-β doubles miR-145 expression (P < 0.05), halves wild-type CFTR mRNA and protein levels (P < 0.01), and nullifies lumacaftor/ivacaftor F508del CFTR correction. miR-145 overexpression similarly decreases wild-type CFTR protein synthesis (P < 0.01) and function (P < 0.05), and eliminates F508del corrector benefit. miR-145 antagonism blocks TGF-β suppression of CFTR and enhances lumacaftor correction of F508del CFTR. CONCLUSIONS miR-145 mediates TGF-β inhibition of CFTR synthesis and function in airway epithelia. Specific antagonists to miR-145 interrupt TGF-β signaling to restore F508del CFTR modulation. miR-145 antagonism may offer a novel therapeutic opportunity to enhance therapeutic benefit of F508del CFTR correction in CF epithelia.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Peng Li
- Department of Biostatistics, and
| | - George M. Solomon
- Gregory Fleming James Cystic Fibrosis Research Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama; and
| | | | - Marina Mazur
- Gregory Fleming James Cystic Fibrosis Research Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama; and
| | | | - Tomasz Szul
- Gregory Fleming James Cystic Fibrosis Research Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama; and
| | - William T. Gerthoffer
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama
| | - Steven M. Rowe
- Department of Medicine
- Gregory Fleming James Cystic Fibrosis Research Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama; and
| | - William T. Harris
- Department of Pediatrics
- Gregory Fleming James Cystic Fibrosis Research Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama; and
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McNally P, Greene CM. Cystic fibrosis: a model for precision medicine. EXPERT REVIEW OF PRECISION MEDICINE AND DRUG DEVELOPMENT 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/23808993.2018.1444990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Paul McNally
- Department of Paediatrics, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital, Crumlin, Dublin, Ireland
- National Children’s Research Centre, Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital, Crumlin, Dublin, Ireland
- Cystic Fibrosis Centre, Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital, Crumlin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Catherine M. Greene
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Education and Research Centre, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
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De Santi C, Gadi S, Swiatecka-Urban A, Greene CM. Identification of a novel functional miR-143-5p recognition element in the Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator 3'UTR. AIMS GENETICS 2018; 5:53-62. [PMID: 31435512 PMCID: PMC6690249 DOI: 10.3934/genet.2018.1.53] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2017] [Accepted: 02/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs involved in regulation of gene expression. They bind in a sequence-specific manner to miRNA recognition elements (MREs) located in the 3' untranslated region (UTR) of target mRNAs and prevent mRNA translation. MiRNA expression is dysregulated in cystic fibrosis (CF), affecting several biological processes including ion conductance in the epithelial cells of the lung. We previously reported that miR-143 is up-regulated in CF bronchial brushings compared to non-CF. Here we identified two predicted binding sites for miR-143-5p (starting at residues 558 and 644) on the CFTR mRNA, and aimed to assess whether CFTR is a true molecular target of miR-143-5p. Expression of miR-143-5p was found to be up-regulated in a panel of CF vs non-CF cell lines (1.7-fold, P = 0.0165), and its levels were increased in vitro after 20 hours treatment with bronchoalveolar lavage fluid from CF patients compared to vehicle-treated cells (3.3-fold, P = 0.0319). Luciferase assays were performed to elucidate direct miRNA::target interactions and showed that miR-143-5p significantly decreased the reporter activity when carrying the wild-type full length sequence of CFTR 3'UTR (minus 15%, P = 0.005). This repression was rescued by the disruption of the first, but not the second, predicted MRE, suggesting that the residue starting at 558 was the actual active binding site. In conclusion, we here showed that miR-143-5p modestly but significantly inhibits CFTR, improving the knowledge on functional MREs within the CFTR 3'UTR. This could lead to the development of novel therapeutic strategies where miRNA-mediated CFTR repression is blocked thereby possibly increasing the efficacy of the currently available CFTR modulators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara De Santi
- Lung Biology Group, Department of Clinical Microbiology, RCSI Education & Research Centre, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Sucharitha Gadi
- Lung Biology Group, Department of Clinical Microbiology, RCSI Education & Research Centre, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Agnieszka Swiatecka-Urban
- Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC, Department of Cell Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Catherine M. Greene
- Lung Biology Group, Department of Clinical Microbiology, RCSI Education & Research Centre, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 9, Ireland
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Fernández Fernández E, Santos-Carballal B, de Santi C, Ramsey JM, MacLoughlin R, Cryan SA, Greene CM. Biopolymer-Based Nanoparticles for Cystic Fibrosis Lung Gene Therapy Studies. MATERIALS 2018; 11:ma11010122. [PMID: 29342838 PMCID: PMC5793620 DOI: 10.3390/ma11010122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2017] [Revised: 01/04/2018] [Accepted: 01/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Lung gene therapy for cystic fibrosis disease has not been successful due to several challenges such as the absence of an appropriate vector. Therefore, optimal delivery of emerging therapeutics to airway epithelial cells demands suitable non-viral systems. In this work, we describe the formulation and the physicochemical investigation of biocompatible and biodegradable polymeric nanoparticles (NPs), including PLGA and chitosan (animal and non-animal), as novel methods for the safe and efficient delivery of CFTR-specific locked nucleic acids (LNAs).
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Fernández Fernández
- Lung Biology Group, Department of Clinical Microbiology, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 9, Ireland.
| | | | - Chiara de Santi
- Lung Biology Group, Department of Clinical Microbiology, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 9, Ireland.
| | - Joanne M Ramsey
- School of Pharmacy, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 2, Ireland.
| | - Ronan MacLoughlin
- School of Pharmacy, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 2, Ireland.
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Trinity College, Dublin 2, Ireland.
- Aerogen Ltd., Galway Business Park, Dangan, Galway H91 HE94, Ireland.
| | - Sally-Ann Cryan
- School of Pharmacy, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 2, Ireland.
| | - Catherine M Greene
- Lung Biology Group, Department of Clinical Microbiology, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 9, Ireland.
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Fabbri E, Tamanini A, Jakova T, Gasparello J, Manicardi A, Corradini R, Sabbioni G, Finotti A, Borgatti M, Lampronti I, Munari S, Dechecchi MC, Cabrini G, Gambari R. A Peptide Nucleic Acid against MicroRNA miR-145-5p Enhances the Expression of the Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator (CFTR) in Calu-3 Cells. Molecules 2017; 23:molecules23010071. [PMID: 29286300 PMCID: PMC6017273 DOI: 10.3390/molecules23010071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2017] [Revised: 12/05/2017] [Accepted: 12/14/2017] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Peptide nucleic acids (PNAs) are very useful tools for gene regulation at different levels, but in particular in the last years their use for targeting microRNA (anti-miR PNAs) has provided impressive advancements. In this respect, microRNAs related to the repression of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene, which is defective in cystic fibrosis, are of great importance in the development of new type of treatments. In this paper we propose the use of an anti-miR PNA for targeting miR-145, a microRNA reported to suppress CFTR expression. Octaarginine-anti-miR PNA conjugates were delivered to Calu-3 cells, exerting sequence dependent targeting of miR-145-5p. This allowed to enhance expression of the miR-145 regulated CFTR gene, analyzed at mRNA (RT-qPCR, Reverse Transcription quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction) and CFTR protein (Western blotting) level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrica Fabbri
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Anna Tamanini
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, University-Hospital, 37126 Verona, Italy.
| | - Tiziana Jakova
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, 43124 Parma, Italy.
| | - Jessica Gasparello
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Alex Manicardi
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, 43124 Parma, Italy.
| | - Roberto Corradini
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, 43124 Parma, Italy.
| | - Giuseppe Sabbioni
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Alessia Finotti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Monica Borgatti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Ilaria Lampronti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Silvia Munari
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, University-Hospital, 37126 Verona, Italy.
| | | | - Giulio Cabrini
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, University-Hospital, 37126 Verona, Italy.
| | - Roberto Gambari
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy.
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Abstract
Nucleic acid therapeutics are an established class of drugs that enable specific targeting of a gene of interest. This diverse family of drugs includes antisense oligonucleotides, siRNAs, and mRNA replacement therapies, which can elicit both gene repression and activation, primarily at the RNA level. Recent advances in medicinal chemistry have increased drug potency and enhanced delivery and distribution to a broad array of tissue and cell types. A key advantage of nucleic acid therapeutics is in their application to monogenic diseases. Cystic fibrosis (CF) is one such disease that affects ∼70,000 people globally. This severe disease is an excellent candidate for nucleic acid therapies, as it is due to a genetic defect in a single epithelial chloride channel. Although CF affects many tissues, the primary cause of patient mortality is lung disease. Here we review the various nucleic acid therapeutic modalities and their mechanisms of action, the opportunities and challenges associated with application of nucleic acid drugs to the lung pathology of CF, and the current state and prospects for nucleic acid drugs for the treatment of CF.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Shuling Guo
- Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Inc. , Carlsbad, California
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45
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Peptide Nucleic Acids as miRNA Target Protectors for the Treatment of Cystic Fibrosis. Molecules 2017; 22:molecules22071144. [PMID: 28698463 PMCID: PMC6152032 DOI: 10.3390/molecules22071144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2017] [Revised: 07/03/2017] [Accepted: 07/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is one of the most common life shortening conditions in Caucasians. CF is caused by mutations in the CF Transmembrane Conductance Regulator (CFTR) gene which result in reduced or altered CFTR functionality. Several microRNAs (miRNAs) downregulate the expression of CFTR, thus causing or exacerbating the symptoms of CF. In this context, the design of anti-miRNA agents represents a valid functional tool, but its translation to the clinic might lead to unpredictable side effects because of the interference with the expression of other genes regulated by the same miRNAs. Herein, for the first time, is proposed the use of peptide nucleic acids (PNAs) to protect specific sequences in the 3’UTR (untranslated region) of the CFTR messenger RNA (mRNA) by action of miRNAs. Two PNAs (7 and 13 bases long) carrying the tetrapeptide Gly-SerP-SerP-Gly at their C-end, fully complementary to the 3’UTR sequence recognized by miR-509-3p, have been synthesized and the structural features of target PNA/RNA heteroduplexes have been investigated by spectroscopic and molecular dynamics studies. The co-transfection of the pLuc-CFTR-3´UTR vector with different combinations of PNAs, miR-509-3p, and controls in A549 cells demonstrated the ability of the longer PNA to rescue the luciferase activity by up to 70% of the control, thus supporting the use of suitable PNAs to counteract the reduction in the CFTR expression.
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Bergougnoux A, Petit A, Knabe L, Bribes E, Chiron R, De Sario A, Claustres M, Molinari N, Vachier I, Taulan-Cadars M, Bourdin A. The HDAC inhibitor SAHA does not rescue CFTR membrane expression in Cystic Fibrosis. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2017; 88:124-132. [PMID: 28478266 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2017.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2016] [Revised: 04/21/2017] [Accepted: 05/03/2017] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
The development of suitable Cystic Fibrosis (CF) models for preclinical bench tests of therapeutic candidates is challenging. Indeed, the validation of molecules to rescue the p.Phe508del-CFTR channel (encoded by the Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane conductance Regulator gene carrying the p.Phe508del mutation) requires taking into account their overall effects on the epithelium. Suberoylanilide Hydroxamic Acid (SAHA), a histone deacetylase inhibitor (HDACi), was previously shown to be a CFTR corrector via proteostasis modulation in CFTR-deficient immortalized cells. Here, we tested SAHA effects on goblet cell metaplasia using an ex vivo model based on the air-liquid interface (ALI) culture of differentiated airway epithelial cells obtained by nasal scraping from CF patients and healthy controls. Ex vivo epithelium grew successfully in ALI cultures with significant rise in the expression of CFTR and of markers of airway epithelial differentiation compared to monolayer cell culture. SAHA decreased CFTR transcript and protein levels in CF and non-CF epithelia. Whereas SAHA induced lysine hyperacetylation, it did not change histone modifications at the CFTR promoter. SAHA reduced MUC5AC and MUC5B expression and inhibited goblet epithelial cell differentiation. Similar effects were obtained in CF and non-CF epithelia. All the effects were fully reversible within five days from SAHA withdrawal. We conclude that, ex vivo, SAHA modulate the structure of airway epithelia without specific effect on CFTR gene and protein suggesting that HDACi cannot be useful for CF treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Bergougnoux
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier F-34093, France; EA7402, Rare Diseases Laboratory, University of Montpellier, Montpellier F-34093, France.
| | - Aurélie Petit
- Respiratory Disease Department - CHU Montpellier, Montpellier F-34295, France
| | - Lucie Knabe
- Respiratory Disease Department - CHU Montpellier, Montpellier F-34295, France; PhyMedExp, University of Montpellier, INSERM U1046, CNRS UMR 9214, Montpellier F-34295, France
| | - Estelle Bribes
- Respiratory Disease Department - CHU Montpellier, Montpellier F-34295, France
| | - Raphaël Chiron
- Respiratory Disease Department - CHU Montpellier, Montpellier F-34295, France
| | - Albertina De Sario
- EA7402, Rare Diseases Laboratory, University of Montpellier, Montpellier F-34093, France
| | - Mireille Claustres
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier F-34093, France; EA7402, Rare Diseases Laboratory, University of Montpellier, Montpellier F-34093, France
| | - Nicolas Molinari
- PhyMedExp, University of Montpellier, INSERM U1046, CNRS UMR 9214, Montpellier F-34295, France; Service DIM, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier F-34093, France
| | - Isabelle Vachier
- Respiratory Disease Department - CHU Montpellier, Montpellier F-34295, France
| | - Magali Taulan-Cadars
- EA7402, Rare Diseases Laboratory, University of Montpellier, Montpellier F-34093, France
| | - Arnaud Bourdin
- Respiratory Disease Department - CHU Montpellier, Montpellier F-34295, France; PhyMedExp, University of Montpellier, INSERM U1046, CNRS UMR 9214, Montpellier F-34295, France
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Lucarelli M. New era of cystic fibrosis: Full mutational analysis and personalized therapy. World J Med Genet 2017; 7:1-9. [DOI: 10.5496/wjmg.v7.i1.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2016] [Revised: 12/19/2016] [Accepted: 02/21/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite its apparently simple genetics, cystic fibrosis (CF) is a rather complex genetic disease. A lot of variability in the steps of the path from the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene to the clinical manifestations originates an uncertain genotype - phenotype relationship. A major determinant of this uncertainty is the incomplete knowledge of the CFTR mutated genotypes, due to the high number of CFTR mutations and to the higher number of their combinations in trans and in cis. Also the very limited knowledge of functional effects of CFTR mutated alleles severely impairs our diagnostic and prognostic ability. The final phenotypic modulation exerted by CFTR modifier genes and interactome further complicates the framework. The next generation sequencing approach is a rapid, low-cost and high-throughput tool that allows a near complete structural characterization of CFTR mutated genotypes, as well as of genotypes of several other genes cooperating to the final CF clinical manifestations. This powerful method perfectly complements the new personalized therapeutic approach for CF. Drugs active on specific CFTR mutational classes are already available for CF patients or are in phase 3 trials. A complete genetic characterization has been becoming crucial for a correct personalized therapy. However, the need of a functional classification of each CFTR mutation potently arises. Future big efforts towards an ever more detailed knowledge of both structural and functional CFTR defects, coupled to parallel personalized therapeutic interventions decisive for CF cure can be foreseen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Lucarelli
- Department of Cellular Biotechnologies and Hematology, Sapienza University of Rome, Laboratory affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia - Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, 00161 Rome, Italy
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Biswas R, Kumar P, Pollard HB. Regulation of mRNA turnover in cystic fibrosis lung disease. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS-RNA 2016; 8. [PMID: 27863009 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2016] [Revised: 10/13/2016] [Accepted: 10/16/2016] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an autosomal recessive disease due to mutations in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene, F508del-CFTR being the most frequent mutation. The CF lung is characterized by a hyperinflammatory phenotype and is regulated by multiple factors that coordinate its pathophysiology. In CF the expression of CFTR as well as proinflammatory genes are regulated at the level of messenger RNA (mRNA) stability, which subsequently affect translation. These mechanisms are mediated by inflammatory RNA-binding proteins as well as small endogenous noncoding microRNAs, in coordination with cellular signaling pathways. These regulatory factors exhibit altered expression and function in vivo in the CF lung, and play a key role in the pathophysiology of CF lung disease. In this review, we have described the role of mRNA stability and associated regulatory mechanisms in CF lung disease. WIREs RNA 2017, 8:e1408. doi: 10.1002/wrna.1408 For further resources related to this article, please visit the WIREs website.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roopa Biswas
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Genetics, School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Parameet Kumar
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Genetics, School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Harvey B Pollard
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Genetics, School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA
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McKiernan PJ, Greene CM. High-throughput profiling for discovery of non-coding RNA biomarkers of lung disease. Expert Rev Mol Diagn 2015; 16:173-85. [PMID: 26581119 DOI: 10.1586/14737159.2016.1122526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
In respiratory medicine there is a need for clinical biomarkers for diagnosis, prognosis and assessment of response to therapy. Noncoding RNA (ncRNA) is expressed in all human cells; two major classes--long ncRNA and microRNA--are detectable extracellularly in the circulation and other biofluids. Altered ncRNA expression is associated with lung disease; collectively this indicates that ncRNA represents a potential biomarker class. This article presents and compares existing platforms for detection and quantification of ncRNA, specifically hybridization, qRT-PCR and RNA sequencing, and outlines methods for data interpretation and normalization. Each approach has merits and shortcomings, which can affect the choice of method when embarking on a biomarker study. Biomarker properties and pre-analytical considerations for ncRNA profiling are also presented. Since a variety of profiling approaches are available, careful study and experimental design are important. Finally, challenges and goals for reliable, standardized high-throughput ncRNA profiling in biofluids as lung disease biomarkers are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul J McKiernan
- a Respiratory Research, Department of Medicine, The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Education and Research Centre , Beaumont Hospital , Dublin , Ireland
| | - Catherine M Greene
- a Respiratory Research, Department of Medicine, The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Education and Research Centre , Beaumont Hospital , Dublin , Ireland
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Schulz A, Tümmler B. Non-allergic asthma as a CFTR-related disorder. J Cyst Fibros 2015; 15:641-4. [PMID: 26526220 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcf.2015.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2015] [Revised: 09/11/2015] [Accepted: 10/19/2015] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND CFTR dysfunction can be involved in CBAVD, pancreatitis or bronchiectasis. METHODS Subjects with cystic fibrosis-like disease, equivocal sweat chloride concentrations and no or one disease-causing CFTR mutation were investigated by intestinal current and/or nasal potential difference measurements. RESULTS A subgroup of female patients who had been diagnosed to suffer from non-allergic asthma showed intermediary chloride concentrations in sweat test, normal chloride secretory responses in the intestine and an abnormal nasal potential difference with Sermet scores in the cystic fibrosis range. CONCLUSION Non-allergic asthma is a clinical entity that may be associated with CFTR dysfunction of the respiratory epithelium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Schulz
- Clinic for Paediatric Pneumology, Allergology and Neonatology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany; Biomedical Research in Endstage and Obstructive Lung Disease (BREATH), German Center for Lung Research, Hannover, Germany.
| | - Burkhard Tümmler
- Clinic for Paediatric Pneumology, Allergology and Neonatology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany; Biomedical Research in Endstage and Obstructive Lung Disease (BREATH), German Center for Lung Research, Hannover, Germany.
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