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Tolksdorf B, Heinze J, Niemeyer D, Röhrs V, Berg J, Drosten C, Kurreck J. Development of a highly stable, active small interfering RNA with broad activity against SARS-CoV viruses. Antiviral Res 2024; 226:105879. [PMID: 38599550 DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2024.105879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
Treatment options for COVID-19 remain limited. Here, we report the optimization of an siRNA targeting the highly conserved leader region of SARS-CoV-2. The siRNA was rendered nuclease resistant by the introduction of modified nucleotides without loss of activity. Importantly, the siRNA also retained its inhibitory activity against the emerged omicron sublineage variant BA.2, which occurred after the siRNA was designed and is resistant to other antiviral agents such as antibodies. In addition, we show that a second highly active siRNA designed against the viral 5'-UTR can be applied as a rescue molecule, to minimize the spread of escape mutations. We therefore consider our siRNA-based molecules to be promising broadly active candidates for the treatment of current and future SARS-CoV-2 variants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrice Tolksdorf
- Chair of Applied Biochemistry, Institute of Biotechnology, Technische Universität Berlin, Berlin, 10623, Germany
| | - Julian Heinze
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany; Institute of Virology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117, Germany
| | - Daniela Niemeyer
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany; Institute of Virology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117, Germany
| | - Viola Röhrs
- Chair of Applied Biochemistry, Institute of Biotechnology, Technische Universität Berlin, Berlin, 10623, Germany
| | - Johanna Berg
- Chair of Applied Biochemistry, Institute of Biotechnology, Technische Universität Berlin, Berlin, 10623, Germany
| | - Christian Drosten
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany; Institute of Virology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117, Germany
| | - Jens Kurreck
- Chair of Applied Biochemistry, Institute of Biotechnology, Technische Universität Berlin, Berlin, 10623, Germany.
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2
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Wu Y, Yue Y, Xiong S. Cardiac miR-19a/19b was induced and hijacked by CVB3 to facilitate virus replication via targeting viral genomic RdRp-encoding region. Antiviral Res 2023; 217:105702. [PMID: 37604350 DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2023.105702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023]
Abstract
Coxsackievirus B3 (CVB3) is one of the major pathogens of viral myocarditis, lacking specific anti-virus therapeutic options. Increasing evidence has shown an important involvement of the miR-17-92 cluster both in virus infection and cardiovascular development and diseases, while its role in CVB3-induced viral myocarditis remains unclear. In this study, we found that miR-19a and miR-19b were significantly up-regulated in heart tissues of CVB3-infected mice and exerted a significant facilitatory impact on CVB3 biosynthesis and replication, with a more pronounced effect observed in miR-19b, by targeting the encoding region of viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase 3D (RdRp, 3Dpol) to increase viral genomic RNA stability. The virus-promoting effects were nullified by the synonymous mutations in the viral 3Dpol-encoding region, which corresponded to the seed sequence shared by miR-19a and miR-19b. In parallel, treatment with miR-19b antagomir not only resulted in a noteworthy suppression of CVB3 replication and infection in infected cells, but also demonstrated a significant reduction in the cardiac viral load of CVB3-infected mice, resulting in a considerable alleviation of myocarditis. Collectively, our study showed that CVB3-induced cardiac miR-19a/19b contributed to viral myocarditis via facilitating virus biosynthesis and replication, and targeting miR-19a/19b might represent a novel therapeutic target for CVB3-induced viral myocarditis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingchun Wu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, Institutes of Biology and Medical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Yan Yue
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, Institutes of Biology and Medical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, China.
| | - Sidong Xiong
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, Institutes of Biology and Medical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, China.
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3
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Yang Y, Wu S, Wang Y, Shao F, Lv P, Li R, Zhao X, Zhang J, Zhang X, Li J, Hou L, Xu J, Chen W. Lung-Targeted Transgene Expression of Nanocomplexed Ad5 Enhances Immune Response in the Presence of Preexisting Immunity. ENGINEERING (BEIJING, CHINA) 2023:S2095-8099(23)00010-3. [PMID: 36714358 PMCID: PMC9869631 DOI: 10.1016/j.eng.2022.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Revised: 11/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Recombinant adenovirus serotype 5 (Ad5) vector has been widely applied in vaccine development targeting infectious diseases, such as Ebola virus disease and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). However, the high prevalence of preexisting anti-vector immunity compromises the immunogenicity of Ad5-based vaccines. Thus, there is a substantial unmet need to minimize preexisting immunity while improving the insert-induced immunity of Ad5 vectors. Herein, we address this need by utilizing biocompatible nanoparticles to modulate Ad5-host interactions. We show that positively charged human serum albumin nanoparticles ((+)HSAnp), which are capable of forming a complex with Ad5, significantly increase the transgene expression of Ad5 in both coxsackievirus-adenovirus receptor-positive and -negative cells. Furthermore, in charge- and dose-dependent manners, Ad5/(+)HSAnp complexes achieve robust (up to 227-fold higher) and long-term (up to 60 days) transgene expression in the lungs of mice following intranasal instillation. Importantly, in the presence of preexisting anti-Ad5 immunity, complexed Ad5-based Ebola and COVID-19 vaccines significantly enhance antigen-specific humoral response and mucosal immunity. These findings suggest that viral aggregation and charge modification could be leveraged to engineer enhanced viral vectors for vaccines and gene therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yilong Yang
- Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing 100071, China
| | - Shipo Wu
- Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing 100071, China
| | - Yudong Wang
- Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing 100071, China
| | - Fangze Shao
- Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing 100071, China
| | - Peng Lv
- Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing 100071, China
| | - Ruihua Li
- Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing 100071, China
| | - Xiaofan Zhao
- Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing 100071, China
| | - Jun Zhang
- Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing 100071, China
| | - Xiaopeng Zhang
- Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing 100071, China
| | - Jianmin Li
- Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing 100071, China
| | - Lihua Hou
- Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing 100071, China
| | - Junjie Xu
- Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing 100071, China
| | - Wei Chen
- Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing 100071, China
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4
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Petrov N, Stoyanova M, Stoyanova A, Nikolova I, Grozdanov P, Galabov A. Gene silencing of VP1 gene of coxsackievirus B3 neurotropic strain Nancy by dsRNAs and siRNAs. BIOTECHNOL BIOTEC EQ 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/13102818.2022.2082320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Nikolay Petrov
- Laboratory of Virology, Department of Natural Sciences, New Bulgarian University, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Mariya Stoyanova
- Department of Plant Protection, Institute of Soil Science, Agrotechnologies and Plant Protection “N. Pushkarov”, Agricultural Academy, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Adelina Stoyanova
- Department of Virology, The Stephan Angeloff Institute of Microbiology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Ivanka Nikolova
- Department of Virology, The Stephan Angeloff Institute of Microbiology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Petar Grozdanov
- Department of Virology, The Stephan Angeloff Institute of Microbiology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Angel Galabov
- Department of Virology, The Stephan Angeloff Institute of Microbiology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria
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5
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Tolksdorf B, Nie C, Niemeyer D, Röhrs V, Berg J, Lauster D, Adler JM, Haag R, Trimpert J, Kaufer B, Drosten C, Kurreck J. Inhibition of SARS-CoV-2 Replication by a Small Interfering RNA Targeting the Leader Sequence. Viruses 2021; 13:v13102030. [PMID: 34696460 PMCID: PMC8539227 DOI: 10.3390/v13102030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has infected almost 200 million people worldwide and led to approximately 4 million deaths as of August 2021. Despite successful vaccine development, treatment options are limited. A promising strategy to specifically target viral infections is to suppress viral replication through RNA interference (RNAi). Hence, we designed eight small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) targeting the highly conserved 5′-untranslated region (5′-UTR) of SARS-CoV-2. The most promising candidate identified in initial reporter assays, termed siCoV6, targets the leader sequence of the virus, which is present in the genomic as well as in all subgenomic RNAs. In assays with infectious SARS-CoV-2, it reduced replication by two orders of magnitude and prevented the development of a cytopathic effect. Moreover, it retained its activity against the SARS-CoV-2 alpha variant and has perfect homology against all sequences of the delta variant that were analyzed by bioinformatic means. Interestingly, the siRNA was even highly active in virus replication assays with the SARS-CoV-1 family member. This work thus identified a very potent siRNA with a broad activity against various SARS-CoV viruses that represents a promising candidate for the development of new treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrice Tolksdorf
- Applied Biochemistry, Institute of Biotechnology, Technische Universität Berlin, 10623 Berlin, Germany; (B.T.); (V.R.); (J.B.)
| | - Chuanxiong Nie
- Institute of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Freie Universität Berlin, 14195 Berlin, Germany; (C.N.); (D.L.); (R.H.)
| | - Daniela Niemeyer
- German Centre for Infection Research (DZIF), Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (D.N.); (C.D.)
- Institute of Virology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Viola Röhrs
- Applied Biochemistry, Institute of Biotechnology, Technische Universität Berlin, 10623 Berlin, Germany; (B.T.); (V.R.); (J.B.)
| | - Johanna Berg
- Applied Biochemistry, Institute of Biotechnology, Technische Universität Berlin, 10623 Berlin, Germany; (B.T.); (V.R.); (J.B.)
| | - Daniel Lauster
- Institute of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Freie Universität Berlin, 14195 Berlin, Germany; (C.N.); (D.L.); (R.H.)
| | - Julia M. Adler
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Virology, Freie Universität Berlin, 14163 Berlin, Germany; (J.M.A.); (J.T.); (B.K.)
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Respiratory Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Rainer Haag
- Institute of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Freie Universität Berlin, 14195 Berlin, Germany; (C.N.); (D.L.); (R.H.)
| | - Jakob Trimpert
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Virology, Freie Universität Berlin, 14163 Berlin, Germany; (J.M.A.); (J.T.); (B.K.)
| | - Benedikt Kaufer
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Virology, Freie Universität Berlin, 14163 Berlin, Germany; (J.M.A.); (J.T.); (B.K.)
| | - Christian Drosten
- German Centre for Infection Research (DZIF), Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (D.N.); (C.D.)
- Institute of Virology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Jens Kurreck
- Applied Biochemistry, Institute of Biotechnology, Technische Universität Berlin, 10623 Berlin, Germany; (B.T.); (V.R.); (J.B.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.:+ 49-30-314-27581
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6
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Khanna M, Gautam A, Rajput R, Sharma L. Natural Products as a Paradigm for the Treatment of Coxsackievirus - induced Myocarditis. Curr Top Med Chem 2020; 20:607-616. [PMID: 31995007 DOI: 10.2174/1568026620666200129094516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2019] [Revised: 09/22/2019] [Accepted: 10/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Coxsackievirus B3 (CVB3), a member of the Picornaviridae family, is considered to be one of the most important infectious agents to cause virus-induced myocarditis. Despite improvements in studying viral pathology, structure and molecular biology, as well as diagnosis of this disease, there is still no virus-specific drug in clinical use. Structural and nonstructural proteins produced during the coxsackievirus life cycle have been identified as potential targets for blocking viral replication at the step of attachment, entry, uncoating, RNA and protein synthesis by synthetic or natural compounds. Moreover, WIN (for Winthrop) compounds and application of nucleic-acid based strategies were shown to target viral capsid, entry and viral proteases, but have not reached to the clinical trials as a successful antiviral agent. There is an urgent need for diverse molecular libraries for phenotype-selective and high-throughput screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madhu Khanna
- Department of Microbiology (Virology Unit), Vallabhbhai Patel Chest Institute, University of Delhi, Delhi-110007, India
| | - Anju Gautam
- Department of Microbiology (Virology Unit), Vallabhbhai Patel Chest Institute, University of Delhi, Delhi-110007, India
| | - Roopali Rajput
- Department of Microbiology (Virology Unit), Vallabhbhai Patel Chest Institute, University of Delhi, Delhi-110007, India
| | - Latika Sharma
- Department of Microbiology (Virology Unit), Vallabhbhai Patel Chest Institute, University of Delhi, Delhi-110007, India
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7
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Chen BS, Lee HC, Lee KM, Gong YN, Shih SR. Enterovirus and Encephalitis. Front Microbiol 2020; 11:261. [PMID: 32153545 PMCID: PMC7044131 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.00261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2019] [Accepted: 02/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Enterovirus-induced infection of the central nervous system (CNS) results in acute inflammation of the brain (encephalitis) and constitutes a significant global burden to human health. These viruses are thought to be highly cytolytic, therefore normal brain function could be greatly compromised following enteroviral infection of the CNS. A further layer of complexity is added by evidence showing that some enteroviruses may establish a persistent infection within the CNS and eventually lead to pathogenesis of certain neurodegenerative disorders. Interestingly, enterovirus encephalitis is particularly common among young children, suggesting a potential causal link between the development of the neuroimmune system and enteroviral neuroinvasion. Although the CNS involvement in enterovirus infections is a relatively rare complication, it represents a serious underlying cause of mortality. Here we review a selection of enteroviruses that infect the CNS and discuss recent advances in the characterization of these enteroviruses with regard to their routes of CNS infection, tropism, virulence, and immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo-Shiun Chen
- Research Center for Emerging Viral Infections, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,Department of Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States
| | - Hou-Chen Lee
- Research Center for Emerging Viral Infections, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Kuo-Ming Lee
- Research Center for Emerging Viral Infections, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Nong Gong
- Research Center for Emerging Viral Infections, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Shin-Ru Shih
- Research Center for Emerging Viral Infections, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,Department of Medical Biotechnology and Laboratory Science, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,Research Center for Chinese Herbal Medicine, College of Human Ecology, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,Research Center for Food and Cosmetic Safety, College of Human Ecology, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,Graduate Institute of Health Industry Technology, College of Human Ecology, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Taoyuan, Taiwan
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8
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Maillard PV, van der Veen AG, Poirier EZ, Reis e Sousa C. Slicing and dicing viruses: antiviral RNA interference in mammals. EMBO J 2019; 38:e100941. [PMID: 30872283 PMCID: PMC6463209 DOI: 10.15252/embj.2018100941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2018] [Revised: 01/17/2019] [Accepted: 01/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
To protect against the harmful consequences of viral infections, organisms are equipped with sophisticated antiviral mechanisms, including cell-intrinsic means to restrict viral replication and propagation. Plant and invertebrate cells utilise mostly RNA interference (RNAi), an RNA-based mechanism, for cell-intrinsic immunity to viruses while vertebrates rely on the protein-based interferon (IFN)-driven innate immune system for the same purpose. The RNAi machinery is conserved in vertebrate cells, yet whether antiviral RNAi is still active in mammals and functionally relevant to mammalian antiviral defence is intensely debated. Here, we discuss cellular and viral factors that impact on antiviral RNAi and the contexts in which this system might be at play in mammalian resistance to viral infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierre V Maillard
- Division of Infection and Immunity, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Enzo Z Poirier
- Immunobiology Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
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9
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Petrov N, Stoyanova M, Galabov A. Inhibition of Coxsackievirus B3 cardiotropic strain Woodruff replication by silencing essential viral genes. BIOTECHNOL BIOTEC EQ 2019. [DOI: 10.1080/13102818.2019.1680318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Nikolay Petrov
- Laboratory of Biology, Department of Natural Sciences, New Bulgarian University, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Mariya Stoyanova
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Soil Science, Agrotechnologies and Plant Protection ‘Nikola Pushkarov’, Agricultural Academy, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Angel Galabov
- Department of Virology, The Stephan Angeloff Institute of Microbiology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria
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Vester K, Eravci M, Serikawa T, Schütze T, Weise C, Kurreck J. RNAi-mediated knockdown of the Rhau helicase preferentially depletes proteins with a Guanine-quadruplex motif in the 5'-UTR of their mRNA. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2019; 508:756-761. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2018.11.186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2018] [Accepted: 11/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Sharma M, Mishra B, Saikia UN, Bahl A, Ratho RK. Inhibition of coxsackievirus infection in cardiomyocytes by small dsRNA targeting its cognate coxsackievirus adenovirus receptor. Indian J Med Res 2018; 146:520-527. [PMID: 29434067 PMCID: PMC5819035 DOI: 10.4103/ijmr.ijmr_761_15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background & objectives: Coxsackievirus B (CVB), a member of human Enterovirus group, is the most common cause of viral myocarditis. Coxsackievirus adenovirus receptor (CAR) is identified as a key determinant for the entry of CVB in the target cells. Thus, blockade of receptor by RNA interference (RNAi) may inhibit the entry and pathogenesis of CVB in cardiac cells. The present study was aimed to determine the effect of CAR small dsRNA (siRNA) on coxsackieviral load and CAR expression in coxsackievirus-infected cardiomyocytes. Methods: Transfection efficiency in rat cardiomyocytes (H9c2) was determined by the fluorescent microscopy and flow cytometry. CAR siRNA dose was optimized based on cell viability and relative CAR messenger RNA (mRNA) expression. Cardiomyocytes were transfected with CAR siRNA followed by infection with 100 multiplicity of infection of CVB, which were harvested after 24, 48 and 72 h post-infection (p.i.). RNA was extracted for relative CAR mRNA expression. Cells were freeze-thawed thrice for estimating coxsackieviral load. Results: The efficiency of transfection was optimized to be >80 per cent and CAR siRNA dose of 60 pmol was standardized. The knockdown of CAR by siRNA decreased its expression twice the expression in normal cardiomyocytes after 24 h p.i. of CVB. The treatment with CAR siRNA resulted in significant two log reduction of CVB load in cardiomyocytes infected with CVB at 24 h p.i. and retained till 72 h p.i. Interpretation & conclusions: The inhibition of CAR by siRNA was found to be effective against CVB in cardiomyocytes. However, this treatment strategy has to be evaluated in vivo to develop a new treatment strategy for patients suffering with viral myocarditis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirnalini Sharma
- Department of Virology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Baijayantimala Mishra
- Department of Virology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Uma Nahar Saikia
- Department of Histopathology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Ajay Bahl
- Department of Cardiology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - R K Ratho
- Department of Virology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, India
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12
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Alidjinou EK, Engelmann I, Bossu J, Villenet C, Figeac M, Romond MB, Sané F, Hober D. Persistence of Coxsackievirus B4 in pancreatic ductal-like cells results in cellular and viral changes. Virulence 2017; 8:1229-1244. [PMID: 28112573 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2017.1284735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Although known as cytolytic viruses, group B coxackieviruses (CVB) are able to establish a persistent infection in vitro and in vivo. Viral persistence has been reported as a key mechanism in the pathogenesis of CVB-associated chronic diseases such as type 1 diabetes (T1D). The impact of CVB4 persistence on human pancreas ductal-like cells was investigated. METHODS A persistent CVB4 infection was established in ductal-like cells. PDX-1 expression, resistance to CVB4-induced lysis and CAR expression were evaluated. The profile of cellular microRNAs (miRNAs) was investigated through miRNA-sequencing. Viral phenotypic changes were examined, and genomic modifications were assessed by sequencing of the viral genome. RESULTS The CVB4 persistence in ductal-like cells was productive, with continuous release of infectious particles. Persistently infected cells displayed a resistance to CVB4-induced lysis upon superinfection and expression of PDX-1 and CAR was decreased. These changes were maintained even after virus clearance. The patterns of cellular miRNA expression in mock-infected and in CVB4-persistently infected ductal-like cells were clearly different. The persistent infection-derived virus (PIDV) was still able to induce cytopathic effect but its plaques were smaller than the parental virus. Several mutations appeared in various PIDV genome regions, but amino acid substitutions did not affect the predicted site of interaction with CAR. CONCLUSION Cellular and viral changes occur during persistent infection of human pancreas ductal-like cells with CVB4. The persistence of cellular changes even after virus clearance supports the hypothesis of a long-lasting impact of persistent CVB infection on the cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- E K Alidjinou
- a Univ Lille, CHU Lille, Laboratoire de Virologie EA3610 , Lille , France
| | - I Engelmann
- a Univ Lille, CHU Lille, Laboratoire de Virologie EA3610 , Lille , France
| | - J Bossu
- a Univ Lille, CHU Lille, Laboratoire de Virologie EA3610 , Lille , France
| | - C Villenet
- b Plate-forme de Génomique Fonctionnelle et Structurale , CHU de Lille , France
| | - M Figeac
- b Plate-forme de Génomique Fonctionnelle et Structurale , CHU de Lille , France
| | - M-B Romond
- a Univ Lille, CHU Lille, Laboratoire de Virologie EA3610 , Lille , France
| | - F Sané
- a Univ Lille, CHU Lille, Laboratoire de Virologie EA3610 , Lille , France
| | - D Hober
- a Univ Lille, CHU Lille, Laboratoire de Virologie EA3610 , Lille , France
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13
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Targeting Highly Structured RNA by Cooperative Action of siRNAs and Helper Antisense Oligomers in Living Cells. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0136395. [PMID: 26308932 PMCID: PMC4556297 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0136395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2015] [Accepted: 08/03/2015] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA target accessibility is one of the most important factors limiting the efficiency of RNA interference-mediated RNA degradation. However, targeting RNA viruses in their poorly accessible, highly structured regions can be advantageous because these regions are often conserved in sequence and thus less prone to viral escape. We developed an experimental strategy to attack highly structured RNA by means of pairs of specifically designed small interfering RNAs and helper antisense oligonucleotides using the 5’ untranslated region (5’UTR) of coxsackievirus B3 as a model target. In the first step, sites accessible to hybridization of complementary oligonucleotides were identified using two mapping methods with random libraries of short DNA oligomers. Subsequently, the accessibility of the mapped regions for hybridization of longer DNA 16-mers was confirmed by an RNase H assay. Using criteria for the design of efficient small interfering RNAs (siRNA) and a secondary structure model of the viral 5’UTR, several DNA 19-mers were designed against partly double-stranded RNA regions. Target sites for DNA 19-mers were located opposite the sites which had been confirmed as accessible for hybridization. Three pairs of DNA 19-mers and the helper 2’-O-methyl-16-mers were able to effectively induce RNase H cleavage in vitro. For cellular assays, the DNA 19-mers were replaced by siRNAs, and the corresponding three pairs of siRNA-helper oligomer tools were found to target 5’UTR efficiently in a reporter construct in HeLa cells. Addition of the helper oligomer improved silencing capacity of the respective siRNA. We assume that the described procedure will generally be useful for designing of nucleic acid-based tools to silence highly structured RNA targets.
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14
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Sin J, Mangale V, Thienphrapa W, Gottlieb RA, Feuer R. Recent progress in understanding coxsackievirus replication, dissemination, and pathogenesis. Virology 2015; 484:288-304. [PMID: 26142496 DOI: 10.1016/j.virol.2015.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2015] [Revised: 04/23/2015] [Accepted: 06/03/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Coxsackieviruses (CVs) are relatively common viruses associated with a number of serious human diseases, including myocarditis and meningo-encephalitis. These viruses are considered cytolytic yet can persist for extended periods of time within certain host tissues requiring evasion from the host immune response and a greatly reduced rate of replication. A member of Picornaviridae family, CVs have been historically considered non-enveloped viruses - although recent evidence suggest that CV and other picornaviruses hijack host membranes and acquire an envelope. Acquisition of an envelope might provide distinct benefits to CV virions, such as resistance to neutralizing antibodies and efficient nonlytic viral spread. CV exhibits a unique tropism for progenitor cells in the host which may help to explain the susceptibility of the young host to infection and the establishment of chronic disease in adults. CVs have also been shown to exploit autophagy to maximize viral replication and assist in unconventional release from target cells. In this article, we review recent progress in clarifying virus replication and dissemination within the host cell, identifying determinants of tropism, and defining strategies utilized by the virus to evade the host immune response. Also, we will highlight unanswered questions and provide future perspectives regarding the potential mechanisms of CV pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jon Sin
- Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute, 8700 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Vrushali Mangale
- The Integrated Regenerative Research Institute (IRRI) at San Diego State University, Cell & Molecular Biology Joint Doctoral Program, Department of Biology, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA 92182-4614, USA
| | - Wdee Thienphrapa
- The Integrated Regenerative Research Institute (IRRI) at San Diego State University, Cell & Molecular Biology Joint Doctoral Program, Department of Biology, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA 92182-4614, USA
| | - Roberta A Gottlieb
- Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute, 8700 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Ralph Feuer
- The Integrated Regenerative Research Institute (IRRI) at San Diego State University, Cell & Molecular Biology Joint Doctoral Program, Department of Biology, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA 92182-4614, USA.
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15
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Abstract
Enteroviruses can frequently target the human central nervous system to induce a variety of neurological diseases. Although enteroviruses are highly cytolytic, emerging evidence has shown that these viruses can establish persistent infections both in vivo and in vitro. Here, we investigated the susceptibility of three human brain cell lines, CCF-STTG1, T98G, and SK-N-SH, to infection with three enterovirus serotypes: coxsackievirus B3 (CVB3), enterovirus 71, and coxsackievirus A9. Persistent infection was observed in CVB3-infected CCF-STTG1 cells, as evidenced by prolonged detection of infectious virions, viral RNA, and viral antigens. Of note, infected CCF-STTG1 cells expressed the nonfunctional canonical viral receptors coxsackievirus-adenovirus receptor and decay-accelerating factor, while removal of cell surface chondroitin sulfate from CCF-STTG1 cells inhibited the replication of CVB3, suggesting that receptor usage was one of the major limiting factors in CVB3 persistence. In addition, CVB3 curtailed the induction of beta interferon in infected CCF-STTG1 cells, which likely contributed to the initiation of persistence. Furthermore, proinflammatory chemokines and cytokines, such as vascular cell adhesion molecule 1, interleukin-8 (IL-8), and IL-6, were upregulated in CVB3-infected CCF-STTG1 cells and human progenitor-derived astrocytes. Our data together demonstrate the potential of CCF-STTG1 cells to be a novel cell model for studying CVB3-central nervous system interactions, providing the basis toward a better understanding of CVB3-induced chronic neuropathogenesis.
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16
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Adenovirus vector-mediated RNA interference for the inhibition of human parvovirus B19 replication. Virus Res 2013; 176:155-60. [DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2013.05.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2013] [Revised: 05/23/2013] [Accepted: 05/26/2013] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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17
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Fechner H, Pinkert S, Geisler A, Poller W, Kurreck J. Pharmacological and biological antiviral therapeutics for cardiac coxsackievirus infections. Molecules 2011; 16:8475-503. [PMID: 21989310 PMCID: PMC6264230 DOI: 10.3390/molecules16108475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2011] [Revised: 09/29/2011] [Accepted: 09/30/2011] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Subtype B coxsackieviruses (CVB) represent the most commonly identified infectious agents associated with acute and chronic myocarditis, with CVB3 being the most common variant. Damage to the heart is induced both directly by virally mediated cell destruction and indirectly due to the immune and autoimmune processes reacting to virus infection. This review addresses antiviral therapeutics for cardiac coxsackievirus infections discovered over the last 25 years. One group represents pharmacologically active low molecular weight substances that inhibit virus uptake by binding to the virus capsid (e.g., pleconaril) or inactivate viral proteins (e.g., NO-metoprolol and ribavirin) or inhibit cellular proteins which are essential for viral replication (e.g., ubiquitination inhibitors). A second important group of substances are interferons. They have antiviral but also immunomodulating activities. The third and most recently discovered group includes biological and cellular therapeutics. Soluble receptor analogues (e.g., sCAR-Fc) bind to the virus capsid and block virus uptake. Small interfering RNAs, short hairpin RNAs and antisense oligonucleotides bind to and led to degradation of the viral RNA genome or cellular RNAs, thereby preventing their translation and viral replication. Most recently mesenchymal stem cell transplantation has been shown to possess antiviral activity in CVB3 infections. Taken together, a number of antiviral therapeutics has been developed for the treatment of myocardial CVB infection in recent years. In addition to low molecular weight inhibitors, biological therapeutics have become promising anti-viral agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry Fechner
- Department of Applied Biochemistry, Institute of Biotechnology, Technische Universität Berlin, Gustav-Meyer-Allee 25, 13355 Berlin, Germany; (S.P.); (J.K.)
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed; ; Tel.: +49-30-31472181; Fax: +49-30-31427502
| | - Sandra Pinkert
- Department of Applied Biochemistry, Institute of Biotechnology, Technische Universität Berlin, Gustav-Meyer-Allee 25, 13355 Berlin, Germany; (S.P.); (J.K.)
| | - Anja Geisler
- Department of Cardiology & Pneumology, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Hindenburgdamm 30, 12200 Berlin, Germany; (A.G.); wolfgang.poller@charite (W.P.)
| | - Wolfgang Poller
- Department of Cardiology & Pneumology, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Hindenburgdamm 30, 12200 Berlin, Germany; (A.G.); wolfgang.poller@charite (W.P.)
| | - Jens Kurreck
- Department of Applied Biochemistry, Institute of Biotechnology, Technische Universität Berlin, Gustav-Meyer-Allee 25, 13355 Berlin, Germany; (S.P.); (J.K.)
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18
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Virus-host coevolution in a persistently coxsackievirus B3-infected cardiomyocyte cell line. J Virol 2011; 85:13409-19. [PMID: 21976640 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.00621-11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Coevolution of virus and host is a process that emerges in persistent virus infections. Here we studied the coevolutionary development of coxsackievirus B3 (CVB3) and cardiac myocytes representing the major target cells of CVB3 in the heart in a newly established persistently CVB3-infected murine cardiac myocyte cell line, HL-1(CVB3). CVB3 persistence in HL-1(CVB3) cells represented a typical carrier-state infection with high levels (10(6) to 10(8) PFU/ml) of infectious virus produced from only a small proportion (approximately 10%) of infected cells. CVB3 persistence was characterized by the evolution of a CVB3 variant (CVB3-HL1) that displayed strongly increased cytotoxicity in the naive HL-1 cell line and showed increased replication rates in cultured primary cardiac myocytes of mouse, rat, and naive HL-1 cells in vitro, whereas it was unable to establish murine cardiac infection in vivo. Resistance of HL-1(CVB3) cells to CVB3-HL1 was associated with reduction of coxsackievirus and adenovirus receptor (CAR) expression. Decreasing host cell CAR expression was partially overcome by the CVB3-HL1 variant through CAR-independent entry into resistant cells. Moreover, CVB3-HL1 conserved the ability to infect cells via CAR. The employment of a soluble CAR variant resulted in the complete cure of HL-1(CVB3) cells with respect to the adapted virus. In conclusion, this is the first report of a CVB3 carrier-state infection in a cardiomyocyte cell line, revealing natural coevolution of CAR downregulation with CAR-independent viral entry in resistant host cells as an important mechanism of induction of CVB3 persistence.
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Rhoades RE, Tabor-Godwin JM, Tsueng G, Feuer R. Enterovirus infections of the central nervous system. Virology 2011; 411:288-305. [PMID: 21251690 PMCID: PMC3060663 DOI: 10.1016/j.virol.2010.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 148] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2010] [Accepted: 12/08/2010] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Enteroviruses (EV) frequently infect the central nervous system (CNS) and induce neurological diseases. Although the CNS is composed of many different cell types, the spectrum of tropism for each EV is considerable. These viruses have the ability to completely shut down host translational machinery and are considered highly cytolytic, thereby causing cytopathic effects. Hence, CNS dysfunction following EV infection of neuronal or glial cells might be expected. Perhaps unexpectedly given their cytolytic nature, EVs may establish a persistent infection within the CNS, and the lasting effects on the host might be significant with unanticipated consequences. This review will describe the clinical aspects of EV-mediated disease, mechanisms of disease, determinants of tropism, immune activation within the CNS, and potential treatment regimes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Ralph Feuer
- Corresponding author. Cell & Molecular Biology Joint Doctoral Program, Department of Biology, San Diego State University, 5500 Campanile Drive; San Diego, CA 92182-4614, USA. Fax: +1 619 594 0777.
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20
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Abstract
The triumphant success of RNA interference (RNAi) in life sciences
is based on its high potency to silence genes in a
sequence-specific manner. Nevertheless, the first task for
successful RNAi approaches is the identification of highly active
small interfering RNAs (siRNAs). Early on, it has been found that
the potency of siRNAs can vary
drastically. Great progress was made when thermodynamic properties
that influence siRNA activity were discovered. Design
algorithms based on these parameters enhance the chance to
generate potent siRNAs. Still, many siRNAs designed accordingly
fail to silence their targeted gene, whereas others are highly
efficient despite the fact that they do not fulfil the recommended
criteria. Therefore, the accessibility of the siRNA-binding site
on the target RNA has been investigated as an additional parameter
which is important for RNAi-mediated silencing. These and other
factors which are crucial for successful RNAi approaches will be
discussed in the present review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jens Kurreck
- Institute for Chemistry and Biochemistry, Free University Berlin, Thielallee 63, 14195 Berlin, Germany
- *Jens Kurreck:
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21
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Werk D, Wengel J, Wengel SL, Grunert HP, Zeichhardt H, Kurreck J. Application of small interfering RNAs modified by unlocked nucleic acid (UNA) to inhibit the heart-pathogenic coxsackievirus B3. FEBS Lett 2009; 584:591-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.febslet.2009.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2009] [Revised: 11/28/2009] [Accepted: 12/06/2009] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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22
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Nygårdas M, Vuorinen T, Aalto AP, Bamford DH, Hukkanen V. Inhibition of coxsackievirus B3 and related enteroviruses by antiviral short interfering RNA pools produced using phi6 RNA-dependent RNA polymerase. J Gen Virol 2009; 90:2468-2473. [PMID: 19553393 DOI: 10.1099/vir.0.011338-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Coxsackievirus B3 (CBV3) is a member of the human enterovirus B species and a common human pathogen. Even though much is known about the enteroviral life cycle, no specific drugs are available to treat enterovirus infections. RNA interference (RNAi) has evolved to be an important tool for antiviral experimental therapies and gene function studies. We describe here a novel approach for RNAi against CBVs by using a short interfering (siRNA) pool covering 3.5 kb of CBV3 genomic sequence. The RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRP) of bacteriophage phi6 was used to synthesize long double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) from a cloned region (nt 3837-7399) of the CBV3 genome. The dsRNA was cleaved using Dicer, purified and introduced to cells by transfection. The siRNA pool synthesized using the phi6 RdRP (phi6-siRNAs) was considerably more effective than single-site siRNAs. The phi6-siRNA pool also inhibited replication of other enterovirus B species, such as coxsackievirus B4 and coxsackievirus A9.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michaela Nygårdas
- Department of Virology, University of Turku, Kiinamyllynkatu 13, FIN-20520 Turku, Finland
| | - Tytti Vuorinen
- Department of Virology, University of Turku, Kiinamyllynkatu 13, FIN-20520 Turku, Finland
| | - Antti P Aalto
- Institute of Biotechnology and Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Biocenter 2, Viikinkaari 5, PO Box 56, FIN-00014 University of Helsinki, Finland
| | - Dennis H Bamford
- Institute of Biotechnology and Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Biocenter 2, Viikinkaari 5, PO Box 56, FIN-00014 University of Helsinki, Finland
| | - Veijo Hukkanen
- Department of Microbiology, Aapistie 5A, 90014 University of Oulu, Finland
- Department of Virology, University of Turku, Kiinamyllynkatu 13, FIN-20520 Turku, Finland
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23
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Rothe D, Werk D, Niedrig S, Horbelt D, Grunert HP, Zeichhardt H, Erdmann VA, Kurreck J. Antiviral activity of highly potent siRNAs against echovirus 30 and its receptor. J Virol Methods 2009; 157:211-8. [PMID: 19187792 DOI: 10.1016/j.jviromet.2009.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2008] [Revised: 01/07/2009] [Accepted: 01/13/2009] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi) has been shown to be suitable to inhibit viruses in experimental setups and is considered a promising antiviral strategy that is currently being tested in various clinical trials. The present study provides an approach to design siRNAs with high potency against a virus-specific target gene. In recent years, several outbreaks of aseptic meningitis caused by an echovirus 30 (EV-30) infection have been described. Based on an initial set of 30 in silico designed siRNAs, six siRNAs targeting the 3D RNA-dependent RNA-Polymerase (3D(Pol)) of EV-30 were selected. All but one of them showed high efficiency in both, reporter and virus assays. A second aim of the study was to re-investigate the relevance of the decay-accelerating factor (DAF, also known as CD55) as cellular entry receptor of EV-30 by means of RNAi, a question which had been under debate in previous studies. Knockdown of DAF inhibited drastically infection by EV-30 indicating that DAF plays an important role either as an attachment factor or as a receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Rothe
- University of Stuttgart, Institute of Industrial Genetics, Allmandring, Stuttgart, Germany
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24
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Affiliation(s)
- Jens Kurreck
- Institut für Industrielle Genetik, Universität Stuttgart, Allmandring 31, 70569 Stuttgart (Deutschland), Fax: (+49) 711‐685 66973 http://www.uni‐stuttgart.de/iig/institut/staff/kurreck/index.html
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25
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Abstract
An efficient mechanism for the sequence-specific inhibition of gene expression is RNA interference. In this process, double-stranded RNA molecules induce cleavage of a selected target RNA (see picture). This technique has in recent years developed into a standard method of molecular biology. Successful applications in animal models have already led to the initiation of RNAi-based clinical trials as a new therapeutic option.Only ten years ago Andrew Fire and Craig Mello were able to show that double-stranded RNA molecules could inhibit the expression of homologous genes in eukaryotes. This process, termed RNA interference, has developed into a standard method of molecular biology. This Review provides an overview of the molecular processes involved, with a particular focus on the posttranscriptional inhibition of gene expression in mammalian cells, the possible applications in research, and the results of the first clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jens Kurreck
- Institute of Industrial Genetics, University of Stuttgart, Allmandring 31, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany.
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26
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Dutkiewicz M, Grunert HP, Zeichhardt H, Lena SW, Wengel J, Kurreck J. Design of LNA-modified siRNAs against the highly structured 5' UTR of coxsackievirus B3. FEBS Lett 2008; 582:3061-6. [PMID: 18691577 DOI: 10.1016/j.febslet.2008.07.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2008] [Revised: 07/11/2008] [Accepted: 07/28/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
This study describes a strategy to develop LNA-modified small interfering RNA (siRNAs) against the highly structured 5' UTR of coxsackievirus B3 (CVB-3), which is an attractive target site due to its high degree of conservation. Accessible sites were identified based on structural models and RNase H assays with DNA oligonucleotides. Subsequently, LNA gapmers, siRNAs, siLNAs and small internally segmented interfering RNA (sisiLNAs) were designed against sites, which were found to be accessible in the in vitro assays, and tested in reporter assays and experiments with the infectious virus. The best siLNA improved viability of infected cells by 92% and exerted good antiviral activity in plaque reduction assays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariola Dutkiewicz
- Institute of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Free University Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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27
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Fechner H, Sipo I, Westermann D, Pinkert S, Wang X, Suckau L, Kurreck J, Zeichhardt H, Müller O, Vetter R, Erdmann V, Tschope C, Poller W. Cardiac-targeted RNA interference mediated by an AAV9 vector improves cardiac function in coxsackievirus B3 cardiomyopathy. J Mol Med (Berl) 2008; 86:987-97. [PMID: 18548221 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-008-0363-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2007] [Revised: 04/08/2008] [Accepted: 04/16/2008] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi) has potential to be a novel therapeutic strategy in diverse areas of medicine. In this paper, we report on targeted RNAi for the treatment of a viral cardiomyopathy, which is a major cause of sudden cardiac death or terminal heart failure in children and young adults. RNAi therapy employs small regulatory RNAs to achieve its effect, but in vivo use of synthetic small interfering RNAs is limited by instability in plasma and low transfer into target cells. We instead evaluated an RNAi strategy using short hairpin RNA (shRdRp) directed at the RNA polymerase (RdRP) of coxsackievirus B3 (CoxB3) in HeLa cells, primary rat cardiomyocytes (PNCMs) and CoxB3-infected mice in vivo. A conventional AAV2 vector expressing shRdRp protected HeLa against virus-induced death, but this vector type was unable to transduce PNCMs. In contrast, an analogous pseudotyped AAV2.6 vector was protective also in PNCMs and reduced virus replication by >3 log10 steps. Finally, we evaluated the intravenous treatment of mice with an AAV2.9-shRdRp vector because AAV9 carries the most cardiotropic AAV capsid currently known for in vivo use. Mice with CoxB3 cardiomyopathy had disturbed left ventricular (LV) function with impaired parameters of contractility (dP/dtmax = 3,006 +/- 287 vs. 7,482 +/- 487 mmHg/s, p < 0.01) and diastolic relaxation (dP/dtmin = -2,224 +/- 195 vs. -6,456 +/- 356 mmHg/s, p < 0.01 and Tau = 16.2 +/- 1.1 vs. 10.7 +/- 0.6 ms, p < 0.01) compared to control mice. AAV2.9-shRdRp treatment significantly attenuated the cardiac dysfunction compared to control vector-treated mice on day 10 after CoxB3 infection: dP/dtmax = 3,865 +/- 354 vs. 3,006 +/- 287 mmHg/s (p < 0.05), dP/dtmin = -3,245 +/- 231 vs. -2,224 +/- 195 mmHg/s (p < 0.05) and Tau = 11.9 +/- 0.5 vs. 16.2 +/- 1.1 ms (p < 0.01). The data show, for the first time, that intravenously injected AAV9 has the potential to target RNAi to the heart and suggest AAV9-shRNA vectors as a novel therapeutic approach for cardiac disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry Fechner
- Department of Cardiology and Pneumology, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Hindenburgdamm 30, 12200 Berlin, Germany
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28
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Recombinant lentivirus-delivered short hairpin RNAs targeted to conserved coxsackievirus sequences protect against viral myocarditis and improve survival rate in an animal model. Virus Genes 2008; 36:141-6. [PMID: 18172750 DOI: 10.1007/s11262-007-0192-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2007] [Accepted: 12/18/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Coxsackieviruses are important human pathogens that induce myocarditis and pancreatitis. However, there are no vaccines or therapeutic reagents for their clinical treatment. Although RNA interference (RNAi)-based approaches to the prevention of viral production have been developed recently, limitations to the in vivo delivery systems and variations in the viral target sequences still hamper the strategy. In this study, to overcome these limitations, we have constructed recombinant lentivirus-delivered short hairpin RNAs (shRNAs) against sequences in highly conserved cis-acting replication element (CRE) within the 2C protein of coxsackievirus B3 (CVB3), designated MET-2C. A recombinant lentivirus, designated Met-2C lenti, was constructed that contains the MET-2C sequence, which acts as a shRNA. Met-2C lenti clearly reduced viral production in CVB3-infected cells in vitro. Moreover, the mice injected intraperitoneally with Met-2C lenti had significant reductions in viral titers, viral myocarditis, and proinflammatory cytokines after challenge with CVB3, compared with those in GFP lenti infected control mice. Moreover, Met-2C lenti improved survival rate compared with that of the GFP lenti infected control group. Therefore, Met-2C lenti is potentially a clinical therapeutic agent for the treatment of viral myocarditis.
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29
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Erdmann VA, Poller W, Barciszewski J. Targeting Viral Heart Disease by RNA Interference. RNA TECHNOLOGIES IN CARDIOVASCULAR MEDICINE AND RESEARCH 2008. [PMCID: PMC7120428 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-540-78709-9_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Viral heart disease (VHD) is an important clinical disease entity both in pediatric as well as adult cardiology. Coxsackieviruses (CVBs) are considered an important cause for VHD in both populations. VHD may lead to dilated cardiomyopathy and heart failure which can ultimately require heart transplantation. However, no specific treatment modality is so far available. We and others have shown that coxsackieviral replication and cytotoxicity can be successfully targeted by RNA interference, thus leading to increased cell viability and even prolongation of survival in vivo. However, considerable limitations have to be solved before this novel therapeutic approach may enter the clinical trials arena.
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Affiliation(s)
- Volker A. Erdmann
- Institute for Chemistry/Biochemistry, Free University of Berlin, Thielallee 63, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Poller
- Clinic for Cardiology and Pneumology Campus Benjamin Franklin, Charite University Medicine Berlin, Hindenburgdamm 30, 12200 Berlin, Germany
| | - Jan Barciszewski
- Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Noskowskiego 12, 61-704 Poznan, Poland
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30
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Poller W, Suckau L, Pinkert S, Fechner H. RNA Interference and MicroRNA Modulation for the Treatment of Cardiac Disorders. RNA TECHNOLOGIES IN CARDIOVASCULAR MEDICINE AND RESEARCH 2008. [PMCID: PMC7121055 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-540-78709-9_8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The current status and challenges of RNA interference (RNAi) and microRNA modulation strategies for the treatment of myocardial disorders are discussed and related to the classical gene therapeutic approaches of the past decade. Section 2 summarizes the key issues of current vector technologies which determine if they may be suitable for clinical translation of experimental RNAi or microRNA therapeutic protocols. We then present and discuss examples dealing with the potential of cardiac RNAi therapy. First, an approach to block a key early step in the pathogenesis of a virus-induced cardiomyopathy by RNAi targeting of a cellular receptor for cardiopathogenic viruses (Section 3). Second, an approach to improve cardiac function by RNAi targeting of late pathway of heart failure pathogenesis common to myocardial disorders of multiple etiologies. This strategy is directed at myocardial Ca2+ homeostasis which is disturbed in heart failure due to coronary heart disease, heart valve dysfunction, cardiac inflammation, or genetic defects (Section 4). Whereas the first type of strategies (directed at early pathogenesis) need to be tailor-made for each different type of pathomechanism, the second type (targeting late common pathways) has a much broader range of application. This advantage of the second type of approaches is of key importance since enormous efforts need to be undertaken before any regulatory RNA therapy enters the stage of possible clinical translation. If then the number of patients eligible for this protocol is large, the actual transformation of the experimental therapy into a new therapeutic option of clinical importance is far more likely to occur.
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31
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Tan EL, Tan TMC, Tak Kwong Chow V, Poh CL. Inhibition of enterovirus 71 in virus-infected mice by RNA interference. Mol Ther 2007; 15:1931-8. [PMID: 17712333 DOI: 10.1038/sj.mt.6300287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Enterovirus 71 (EV71) is the main causative agent of hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) in young children. It is often associated with neurological complications and has caused high mortality levels in recent outbreaks in the Asia Pacific region. Currently, there is no effective antiviral therapy against EV71 infections. In this study, we have evaluated and compared the efficacies of three different forms of small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) in inhibiting EV71 replication in a murine model. We have shown that both synthetic 19-mer siRNAs and plasmid-borne short hairpin RNAs (shRNAs) targeted at the conserved 3D(pol) region were able to inhibit EV71 infections in suckling mice when delivered with or without lipid carrier via the systemic route. The treated mice did not exhibit hind limb paralysis and weight loss, as was observed in untreated mice. EV71 replication was significantly reduced as revealed by real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and Western blot. In addition, no evidence of interferon (IFN) induction was detected in the intestinal tissues harvested from the mice as a result of siRNA administration. However, the chemically synthesized 29-mer shRNA did not protect the suckling mice from EV71 infections despite being more potent in the in vitro system. Our results indicate that RNA interference (RNAi) may be a promising therapeutic approach for fighting EV71 infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eng Lee Tan
- Department of Microbiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
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Fechner H, Pinkert S, Wang X, Sipo I, Suckau L, Kurreck J, Dörner A, Sollerbrant K, Zeichhardt H, Grunert HP, Vetter R, Schultheiss HP, Poller W. Coxsackievirus B3 and adenovirus infections of cardiac cells are efficiently inhibited by vector-mediated RNA interference targeting their common receptor. Gene Ther 2007; 14:960-71. [PMID: 17377597 PMCID: PMC7091640 DOI: 10.1038/sj.gt.3302948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
As coxsackievirus B3 (CoxB3) and adenoviruses may cause acute myocarditis and inflammatory cardiomyopathy, isolation of the common coxsackievirus–adenovirus-receptor (CAR) has provided an interesting new target for molecular antiviral therapy. Whereas many viruses show high mutation rates enabling them to develop escape mutants, mutations of their cellular virus receptors are far less likely. We report on antiviral efficacies of CAR gene silencing by short hairpin (sh)RNAs in the cardiac-derived HL-1 cell line and in primary neonatal rat cardiomyocytes (PNCMs). Treatment with shRNA vectors mediating RNA interference against the CAR resulted in almost complete silencing of receptor expression both in HL-1 cells and PNCMs. Whereas CAR was silenced in HL-1 cells as early as 24 h after vector treatment, its downregulation in PNCMs did not become significant before day 6. CAR knockout resulted in inhibition of CoxB3 infections by up to 97% in HL-1 cells and up to 90% in PNCMs. Adenovirus was inhibited by only 75% in HL-1 cells, but up to 92% in PNCMs. We conclude that CAR knockout by shRNA vectors is efficient against CoxB3 and adenovirus in primary cardiac cells, but the efficacy of this approach in vivo may be influenced by cell type-specific silencing kinetics in different tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Fechner
- Department of Cardiology and Pneumology, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - S Pinkert
- Department of Cardiology and Pneumology, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - X Wang
- Department of Cardiology and Pneumology, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - I Sipo
- Department of Cardiology and Pneumology, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - L Suckau
- Department of Cardiology and Pneumology, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - J Kurreck
- Institute of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - A Dörner
- Department of Cardiology and Pneumology, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - K Sollerbrant
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Stockholm Branch, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - H Zeichhardt
- Department of Virology, Institute of Infectious Diseases, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - H-P Grunert
- Department of Virology, Institute of Infectious Diseases, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - R Vetter
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - H-P Schultheiss
- Department of Cardiology and Pneumology, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - W Poller
- Department of Cardiology and Pneumology, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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Müller S, Günther S. Broad-spectrum antiviral activity of small interfering RNA targeting the conserved RNA termini of Lassa virus. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2007; 51:2215-8. [PMID: 17371814 PMCID: PMC1891391 DOI: 10.1128/aac.01368-06] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Small interfering RNAs targeting the conserved RNA termini upstream of NP and L gene were found to reduce reporter gene expression from Lassa virus replicon and Lassa virus mRNA expression construct and to inhibit replication of different Lassa virus strains, lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus, and Mopeia virus in cell culture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie Müller
- Bernhard-Nocht-Institute for Tropical Medicine, Bernhard-Nocht-Strasse 74, D-20359 Hamburg, Germany
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Kim JY, Chung SK, Hwang HY, Kim H, Kim JH, Nam JH, Park SI. Expression of short hairpin RNAs against the coxsackievirus B3 exerts potential antiviral effects in Cos-7 cells and in mice. Virus Res 2007; 125:9-13. [PMID: 17222937 DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2006.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2006] [Revised: 11/17/2006] [Accepted: 11/24/2006] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Chemically synthesized small interfering RNA (siRNA) has been used as an anti-coxsackievirus B3 (CVB3) agent. Herein, we investigated whether vector-derived short hairpin RNAs (shRNA) targeting CVB3 can exert antiviral activities, prior to their further application to viral vector system for efficient in vivo administration. Employing transient transfection assays to in vivo mouse models as well as to in vitro Cos-7 cell cultures, we directly demonstrated the potential antiviral activity of shRNAs following challenges with infectious CVB3. Of the six shRNAs that we designed, three prevented cell death from CVB3 infection by suppressing viral replication and viral production in Cos-7 cells. These were shRNA 2, which targeted the capsid protein VP1, and shRNAs 4 and 5, which targeted two different regions of the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase 3D. Furthermore, shRNAs 2 and 5 also exerted strong antiviral effects in viral replication in vivo, accompanied by attenuated pancreatic tissue damage. Through this direct evaluation system we addressed the development and application of vector-derived shRNAs as an anti-CVB3 agent, revealing new target sequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joo-Young Kim
- Division of Intractable Diseases, Center for Biomedical Sciences, National Institute of Health, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Lambeth LS, Moore RJ, Muralitharan MS, Doran TJ. Suppression of bovine viral diarrhea virus replication by small interfering RNA and short hairpin RNA-mediated RNA interference. Vet Microbiol 2007; 119:132-43. [PMID: 17052865 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2006.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2006] [Revised: 09/06/2006] [Accepted: 09/11/2006] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) is a ubiquitous viral pathogen that affects cattle herds' worldwide causing significant economic loss. The current strategies to control BVDV infection include vaccination (modified-live or killed) and control of virus spread by enhanced biosecurity management, however, the disease remains prevalent. With the discovery of the sequence-specific method of gene silencing known as RNA interference (RNAi), a new era in antiviral therapies has begun. Here we report the efficient inhibition of BVDV replication by small interfering (siRNA) and short hairpin RNA (shRNA)-mediated gene silencing. siRNAs were generated to target the 5' non-translated (NTR) region and the regions encoding the C, NS4B and NS5A proteins of the BVDV genome. The siRNAs were first validated using an EGFP/BVDV reporter system and were then shown to suppress BVDV-induced cytopathic effects and viral titers in cell culture with surprisingly different activities compared to the reporter system. Efficient viral suppression was then achieved by bovine 7SK-expressed BVDV-specific shRNAs. Overall, our results demonstrated the use of siRNA and shRNA-mediated gene silencing to achieve efficient inhibition of the replication of this virus in cell culture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke S Lambeth
- CSIRO Livestock Industries, Australian Animal Health Laboratory, Private Bag 24, Geelong, Victoria 3220, Australia.
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Schubert S, Rothe D, Werk D, Grunert HP, Zeichhardt H, Erdmann VA, Kurreck J. Strand-specific silencing of a picornavirus by RNA interference: evidence for the superiority of plus-strand specific siRNAs. Antiviral Res 2006; 73:197-205. [PMID: 17112603 DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2006.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2006] [Revised: 09/11/2006] [Accepted: 10/12/2006] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
RNA interference triggered by small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) can be used to effectively contain viral spread. Here, we report on the mechanism of action of siRNAs targeting the medically important coxsackievirus B3 (CVB-3) as a typical representative of viruses with a non-segmented RNA genome in positive-strand orientation. Antiviral siRNAs can be designed to target the genomic (+)-strand, the (-)-strand that occurs as a replication intermediate, or both. In the present study, two complementary and systematic approaches are presented providing direct evidence that silencing of the viral (+)-strand is the key to inhibit CVB-3: first, we used rational siRNA design to direct silencing activity specifically against either of the two viral strands. As a second approach, we employed siRNA containing modified nucleotides to render them specific for one of the virus RNAs. Experiments with infectious coxsackievirus revealed that the inhibitory efficiency correlates exclusively with the activity of the siRNAs directed against the viral (+)-strand. Our finding that only (+)-strand specific siRNAs exert significant antiviral potency may hold true for other RNA viruses with (+)-stranded genomes as well and may therefore be helpful in the development of efficient strategies to inhibit virus propagation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steffen Schubert
- Institute for Chemistry and Biochemistry, Free University Berlin, Thielallee 63, D-14195 Berlin, Germany.
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