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Pei J, Tian Y, Dang Y, Ye W, Liu X, Zhao N, Han J, Yang Y, Zhou Z, Zhu X, Zhang H, Ali A, Li Y, Zhang F, Lei Y, Qian A. Flexible nano-liposomes-encapsulated recombinant UL8-siRNA (r/si-UL8) based on bioengineering strategy inhibits herpes simplex virus-1 infection. Antiviral Res 2024; 228:105936. [PMID: 38908520 DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2024.105936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/24/2024]
Abstract
Herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1) infection can cause various diseases and the current therapeutics have limited efficacy. Small interfering RNA (siRNA) therapeutics are a promising approach against infectious diseases by targeting the viral mRNAs directly. Recently, we employed a novel tRNA scaffold to produce recombinant siRNA agents with few natural posttranscriptional modifications. In this study, we aimed to develop a specific prodrug against HSV-1 infection based on siRNA therapeutics by bioengineering technology. We screened and found that UL8 of the HSV-1 genome was an ideal antiviral target based on RNAi. Next, we used a novel bio-engineering approach to manufacture recombinant UL8-siRNA (r/si-UL8) in Escherichia coli with high purity and activity. The r/si-UL8 was selectively processed to mature si-UL8 and significantly reduced the number of infectious virions in human cells. r/si-UL8 delivered by flexible nano-liposomes significantly decreased the viral load in the skin and improved the survival rate in the preventive mouse zosteriform model. Furthermore, r/si-UL8 also effectively inhibited HSV-1 infection in a 3D human epidermal skin model. Taken together, our results highlight that the novel siRNA bioengineering technology is a unique addition to the conventional approach for siRNA therapeutics and r/si-UL8 may be a promising prodrug for curing HSV-1 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiawei Pei
- Lab for Bone Metabolism, Xi'an Key Laboratory of Special Medicine and Health Engineering, Key Lab for Space Biosciences and Biotechnology, Research Center for Special Medicine and Health Systems Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, 710072, China; Department of Microbiology, School of Preclinical Medicine, Airforce Medical University: Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Ye Tian
- Lab for Bone Metabolism, Xi'an Key Laboratory of Special Medicine and Health Engineering, Key Lab for Space Biosciences and Biotechnology, Research Center for Special Medicine and Health Systems Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, 710072, China
| | - Yamei Dang
- Department of Microbiology, School of Preclinical Medicine, Airforce Medical University: Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Wei Ye
- Department of Microbiology, School of Preclinical Medicine, Airforce Medical University: Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xiaoqian Liu
- Department of Microbiology, School of Preclinical Medicine, Airforce Medical University: Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Ningbo Zhao
- Department of Microbiology, School of Preclinical Medicine, Airforce Medical University: Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jiangfan Han
- Lab for Bone Metabolism, Xi'an Key Laboratory of Special Medicine and Health Engineering, Key Lab for Space Biosciences and Biotechnology, Research Center for Special Medicine and Health Systems Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, 710072, China
| | - Yongheng Yang
- Department of Microbiology, School of Preclinical Medicine, Airforce Medical University: Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Ziqing Zhou
- Department of Microbiology, School of Preclinical Medicine, Airforce Medical University: Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xudong Zhu
- Department of Microbiology, School of Preclinical Medicine, Airforce Medical University: Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Hao Zhang
- Lab for Bone Metabolism, Xi'an Key Laboratory of Special Medicine and Health Engineering, Key Lab for Space Biosciences and Biotechnology, Research Center for Special Medicine and Health Systems Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, 710072, China
| | - Arshad Ali
- GMU-GIBH Joint School of Life Sciences, The Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Joint Laboratory for Cell Fate Regulation and Diseases, Guangzhou Medical University, China
| | - Yu Li
- Institute of Medical Research, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Fanglin Zhang
- Department of Microbiology, School of Preclinical Medicine, Airforce Medical University: Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yingfeng Lei
- Department of Microbiology, School of Preclinical Medicine, Airforce Medical University: Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Airong Qian
- Lab for Bone Metabolism, Xi'an Key Laboratory of Special Medicine and Health Engineering, Key Lab for Space Biosciences and Biotechnology, Research Center for Special Medicine and Health Systems Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, 710072, China.
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2
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Xu J, Xu N, Xie W, Zhao C, Yu L, Feng W. BERT-siRNA: siRNA target prediction based on BERT pre-trained interpretable model. Gene 2024; 910:148330. [PMID: 38431236 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2024.148330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Silencing mRNA through siRNA is vital for RNA interference (RNAi), necessitating accurate computational methods for siRNA selection. Current approaches, relying on machine learning, often face challenges with large data requirements and intricate data preprocessing, leading to reduced accuracy. To address this challenge, we propose a BERT model-based siRNA target gene knockdown efficiency prediction method called BERT-siRNA, which consists of a pre-trained DNA-BERT module and Multilayer Perceptron module. It applies the concept of transfer learning to avoid the limitation of a small sample size and the need for extensive preprocessing processes. By fine-tuning on various siRNA datasets after pretraining on extensive genomic data using DNA-BERT to enhance predictive capabilities. Our model clearly outperforms all existing siRNA prediction models through testing on the independent public siRNA dataset. Furthermore, the model's consistent predictions of high-efficiency siRNA knockdown for SARS-CoV-2, as well as its alignment with experimental results for PDCD1, CD38, and IL6, demonstrate the reliability and stability of the model. In addition, the attention scores for all 19-nt positions in the dataset indicate that the model's attention is predominantly focused on the 5' end of the siRNA. The step-by-step visualization of the hidden layer's classification progressively clarified and explained the effective feature extraction of the MLP layer. The explainability of model by analysis the attention scores and hidden layers is also our main purpose in this work, making it more explainable and reliable for biological researchers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiayu Xu
- Institute of Intelligent System and Bioinformatics, College of Intelligent Systems Science and Engineering, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin 150001, China.
| | - Nan Xu
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Molecular Therapeutics and New Drug Development, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, No, 3663 North Zhongshan Road, Shanghai 200065, China; Shanghai Unicar-Therapy Bio-medicine Technology Co., Ltd, No 1525 Minqiang Road, Shanghai 201612, China.
| | - Weixin Xie
- Institute of Intelligent System and Bioinformatics, College of Intelligent Systems Science and Engineering, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin 150001, China.
| | - Chengkui Zhao
- Institute of Intelligent System and Bioinformatics, College of Intelligent Systems Science and Engineering, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin 150001, China; Shanghai Unicar-Therapy Bio-medicine Technology Co., Ltd, No 1525 Minqiang Road, Shanghai 201612, China.
| | - Lei Yu
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Molecular Therapeutics and New Drug Development, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, No, 3663 North Zhongshan Road, Shanghai 200065, China; Shanghai Unicar-Therapy Bio-medicine Technology Co., Ltd, No 1525 Minqiang Road, Shanghai 201612, China.
| | - Weixing Feng
- Institute of Intelligent System and Bioinformatics, College of Intelligent Systems Science and Engineering, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin 150001, China.
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3
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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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4
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Idris A, Shrivastava S, Supramaniam A, Ray RM, Shevchenko G, Acharya D, McMillan NAJ, Morris KV. Extracellular Vesicles Loaded with Long Antisense RNAs Repress Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Infection. Nucleic Acid Ther 2024; 34:101-108. [PMID: 38530082 DOI: 10.1089/nat.2023.0078] [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] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Long antisense RNAs (asRNAs) have been observed to repress HIV and other virus expression in a manner that is refractory to viral evolution. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the causative agent of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) disease, has a distinct ability to evolve resistance around antibody targeting, as was evident from the emergence of various SARS-CoV-2 spike antibody variants. Importantly, the effectiveness of current antivirals is waning due to the rapid emergence of new variants of concern, more recently the omicron variant. One means of avoiding the emergence of viral resistance is by using long asRNA to target SARS-CoV-2. Similar work has proven successful with HIV targeting by long asRNA. In this study, we describe a long asRNA targeting SARS-CoV-2 RNA-dependent RNA polymerase gene and the ability to deliver this RNA in extracellular vesicles (EVs) to repress virus expression. The observations presented in this study suggest that EV-delivered asRNAs are one means to targeting SARS-CoV-2 infection, which is both effective and broadly applicable as a means to control viral expression in the absence of mutation. This is the first demonstration of the use of engineered EVs to deliver long asRNA payloads for antiviral therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adi Idris
- School of Pharmacy and Medical Science, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast Campus, Brisbane, Australia
- Centre for Immunology and Infection Control, School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Surya Shrivastava
- Center for Gene Therapy, City of Hope, Beckman Research Institute and Hematological Malignancy and Stem Cell Transplantation Institute at the City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Aroon Supramaniam
- School of Pharmacy and Medical Science, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast Campus, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Roslyn M Ray
- Center for Gene Therapy, City of Hope, Beckman Research Institute and Hematological Malignancy and Stem Cell Transplantation Institute at the City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Galina Shevchenko
- Center for Gene Therapy, City of Hope, Beckman Research Institute and Hematological Malignancy and Stem Cell Transplantation Institute at the City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Dhruba Acharya
- School of Pharmacy and Medical Science, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast Campus, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Nigel A J McMillan
- School of Pharmacy and Medical Science, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast Campus, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Kevin V Morris
- Centre for Genomics and Personalised Health, School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Kelvin Grove, Brisbane, Australia
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5
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Spencer-Dene B, Mukherjee P, Alex A, Bera K, Tseng WJ, Shi J, Chaney EJ, Spillman DR, Marjanovic M, Miranda E, Boppart SA, Hood SR. Localization of unlabeled bepirovirsen antisense oligonucleotide in murine tissues using in situ hybridization and CARS imaging. RNA (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2023; 29:1575-1590. [PMID: 37460153 PMCID: PMC10578491 DOI: 10.1261/rna.079699.123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
Current methods for detecting unlabeled antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) drugs rely on immunohistochemistry (IHC) and/or conjugated molecules, which lack sufficient sensitivity, specificity, and resolution to fully investigate their biodistribution. Our aim was to demonstrate the qualitative and quantitative distribution of unlabeled bepirovirsen, a clinical stage ASO, in livers and kidneys of dosed mice using novel staining and imaging technologies at subcellular resolution. ASOs were detected in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) and frozen tissues using an automated chromogenic in situ hybridization (ISH) assay: miRNAscope. This was then combined with immunohistochemical detection of cell lineage markers. ASO distribution in hepatocytes versus nonparenchymal cell lineages was quantified using HALO AI image analysis. To complement this, hyperspectral coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering (HS-CARS) imaging microscopy was used to specifically detect the unique cellular Raman spectral signatures following ASO treatment. Bepirovirsen was localized primarily in nonparenchymal liver cells and proximal renal tubules. Codetection of ASO with distinct cell lineage markers of liver and kidney populations aided target cell identity facilitating quantification. Positive liver signal was quantified using HALO AI, with 12.9% of the ASO localized to the hepatocytes and 87.1% in nonparenchymal cells. HS-CARS imaging specifically detected ASO fingerprints based on the unique vibrational signatures following unlabeled ASO treatment in a totally nonperturbative manner at subcellular resolution. Together, these novel detection and imaging modalities represent a significant increase in our ability to detect unlabeled ASOs in tissues, demonstrating improved levels of specificity and resolution. These methods help us understand their underlying mechanisms of action and ultimately improve the therapeutic potential of these important drugs for treating globally significant human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bradley Spencer-Dene
- In Vitro/In Vivo Translation, BioImaging, GSK, Stevenage SG1 2NY, United Kingdom
| | - Prabuddha Mukherjee
- GSK Center for Optical Molecular Imaging, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
- Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
| | - Aneesh Alex
- GSK Center for Optical Molecular Imaging, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
- In Vitro/In Vivo Translation, BioImaging, GSK, Upper Providence, Pennsylvania 19426, USA
| | - Kajari Bera
- GSK Center for Optical Molecular Imaging, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
- Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
| | - Wei-Ju Tseng
- In Vitro/In Vivo Translation, BioImaging, GSK, Upper Providence, Pennsylvania 19426, USA
| | - Jindou Shi
- GSK Center for Optical Molecular Imaging, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
| | - Eric J Chaney
- GSK Center for Optical Molecular Imaging, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
- Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
| | - Darold R Spillman
- GSK Center for Optical Molecular Imaging, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
- Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
| | - Marina Marjanovic
- GSK Center for Optical Molecular Imaging, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
- Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
- Carle Illinois College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
| | - Elena Miranda
- In Vitro/In Vivo Translation, BioImaging, GSK, Stevenage SG1 2NY, United Kingdom
| | - Stephen A Boppart
- GSK Center for Optical Molecular Imaging, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
- Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
- Carle Illinois College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
| | - Steve R Hood
- In Vitro/In Vivo Translation, BioImaging, GSK, Stevenage SG1 2NY, United Kingdom
- GSK Center for Optical Molecular Imaging, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
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6
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Pei J, Tian Y, Ye W, Han J, Dang Y, Cheng T, Wang W, Zhao Y, Ye W, Huangfu S, Li Y, Zhang F, Lei Y, Qian A. A novel recombinant ORF7-siRNA delivered by flexible nano-liposomes inhibits varicella zoster virus infection. Cell Biosci 2023; 13:167. [PMID: 37700336 PMCID: PMC10496174 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-023-01108-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Varicella zoster virus (VZV), which is a human restricted alpha-herpesvirus, causes varicella (chickenpox) and zoster (shingles). The subsequent post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN) due to VZV infection is excruciating for most patients. Thus, developing specific therapeutics against VZV infection is imperative. RNA interference (RNAi) represents an effective approach for alternative antiviral therapy. This study aimed to develop a novel anti-VZV therapeutics based on RNAi. RESULTS In this study, we screened and found the open reading frame 7 (ORF7) of the VZV genome was an ideal antiviral target based on RNAi. Therefore, a novel siRNA targeting ORF7 (si-ORF7) was designed to explore the potential of RNAi antiviral treatment strategy toward VZV. We used a bio-engineering approach to manufacture recombinant siRNA agents with high yield in E. coli. Then, the efficacy of recombinant ORF7-siRNA (r/si-ORF7) in inhibiting VZV infection both in cellular level and 3D human epidermal skin model was evaluated. The r/si-ORF7 was proved to inhibit the VZV replication and reduce the virus copy numbers significantly in vitro. Furthermore, flexible nano-liposomes were established to deliver r/si-ORF7 to 3D human epidermal skin model and found r/si-ORF7 also could inhibit the VZV infection, thus maintaining normal skin morphology. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, our results highlighted that transdermal administration of antiviral r/si-ORF7 was a promising therapeutic strategy for functional cure of VZV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiawei Pei
- key Lab for Space Biosciences and Biotechnology, School of Life Science, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Ye Tian
- key Lab for Space Biosciences and Biotechnology, School of Life Science, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Wei Ye
- Department of Microbiology, School of Preclinical Medicine, Airforce Medical University: Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jiangfan Han
- key Lab for Space Biosciences and Biotechnology, School of Life Science, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yamei Dang
- Department of Microbiology, School of Preclinical Medicine, Airforce Medical University: Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Tong Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, National Institute of Diagnostics and Vaccine Development in Infectious Diseases, School of Life Sciences, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Wei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, National Institute of Diagnostics and Vaccine Development in Infectious Diseases, School of Life Sciences, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Yipu Zhao
- key Lab for Space Biosciences and Biotechnology, School of Life Science, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Weiliang Ye
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Shuyuan Huangfu
- key Lab for Space Biosciences and Biotechnology, School of Life Science, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yu Li
- Institute of Medical Research, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Fanglin Zhang
- Department of Microbiology, School of Preclinical Medicine, Airforce Medical University: Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Yingfeng Lei
- Department of Microbiology, School of Preclinical Medicine, Airforce Medical University: Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Airong Qian
- key Lab for Space Biosciences and Biotechnology, School of Life Science, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.
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7
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Bowden-Reid E, Ledger S, Zhang Y, Di Giallonardo F, Aggarwal A, Stella AO, Akerman A, Milogiannakis V, Walker G, Rawlinson W, Turville S, Kelleher AD, Ahlenstiel C. Novel siRNA therapeutics demonstrate multi-variant efficacy against SARS-CoV-2. Antiviral Res 2023; 217:105677. [PMID: 37478918 DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2023.105677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 07/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023]
Abstract
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a respiratory virus that causes COVID-19 disease, with an estimated global mortality of approximately 2%. While global response strategies, which are predominantly reliant on regular vaccinations, have shifted from zero COVID to living with COVID, there is a distinct lack of broad-spectrum direct acting antiviral therapies that maintain efficacy across evolving SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern. This is of most concern for immunocompromised and immunosuppressed individuals who lack robust immune responses following vaccination, and others at risk for severe COVID and long-COVID. RNA interference (RNAi) therapeutics induced by short interfering RNAs (siRNAs) offer a promising antiviral treatment option, with broad-spectrum antiviral capabilities unparalleled by current antiviral therapeutics and a high genetic barrier to antiviral escape. Here we describe novel siRNAs, targeting highly conserved regions of the SARS-CoV-1 and 2 genome of both human and animal species, with multi-variant antiviral potency against eight SARS-CoV-2 lineages - Ancestral VIC01, Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Delta, Zeta, Kappa and Omicron. Treatment with our siRNA resulted in significant protection against virus-mediated cell death in vitro, with >97% cell survival (P < 0.0001), and corresponding reductions of viral nucleocapsid RNA of up to 99.9% (P < 0.0001). When compared to antivirals; Sotrovimab and Remdesivir, the siRNAs demonstrated a more potent antiviral effect and similarly, when multiplexing siRNAs to target different viral regions simultaneously, an increased antiviral effect was observed compared to individual siRNA treatments (P < 0.0001). These results demonstrate the potential for a highly effective broad-spectrum direct acting antiviral against multiple SARS-CoV-2 variants, including variants resistant to antivirals and vaccine generated neutralizing antibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Scott Ledger
- Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Yuan Zhang
- Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Gregory Walker
- New South Wales Health Pathology, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - William Rawlinson
- New South Wales Health Pathology, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Virology Research Laboratory, Serology and Virology Division (SAViD), Prince of Wales Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Stuart Turville
- Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia; RNA Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Anthony D Kelleher
- Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia; RNA Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Chantelle Ahlenstiel
- Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia; RNA Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
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8
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Zhu B, Ouda R, de Figueiredo P, Kobayashi KS. ORF6, a repressor of the MHC class I pathway: new molecular target for SARS-CoV-2 drug discovery? Expert Opin Ther Targets 2023; 27:639-644. [PMID: 37602463 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2023.2248377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Baohui Zhu
- Department of Immunology, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Ryota Ouda
- Department of Immunology, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Paul de Figueiredo
- Christopher S. Bond Life Sciences Center, Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, and Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Koichi S Kobayashi
- Department of Immunology, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
- Hokkaido University, Institute for Vaccine Research and Development (HU-IVReD), Sapporo, Japan
- Department of Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Bryan, TX, USA
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9
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Gullberg RC, Frydman J. Novel Mode of nanoLuciferase Packaging in SARS-CoV-2 Virions and VLPs Provides Versatile Reporters for Virus Production. Viruses 2023; 15:1335. [PMID: 37376634 DOI: 10.3390/v15061335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 is a positive-strand RNA virus in the Coronaviridae family that is responsible for morbidity and mortality worldwide. To better understand the molecular pathways leading to SARS-CoV-2 virus assembly, we examined a virus-like particle (VLP) system co-expressing all structural proteins together with an mRNA reporter encoding nanoLuciferase (herein nLuc). Surprisingly, the 19 kDa nLuc protein itself was encapsidated into VLPs, providing a better reporter than nLuc mRNA itself. Strikingly, infecting nLuc-expressing cells with the SARS-CoV-2, NL63 or OC43 coronaviruses yielded virions containing packaged nLuc that served to report viral production. In contrast, infection with the flaviviruses, dengue or Zika, did not lead to nLuc packaging and secretion. A panel of reporter protein variants revealed that the packaging is size-limited and requires cytoplasmic expression, indicating that the large virion of coronaviruses can encaspidate a small cytoplasmic reporter protein. Our findings open the way for powerful new approaches to measure coronavirus particle production, egress and viral entry mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Judith Frydman
- Department of Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
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10
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Li G, Hilgenfeld R, Whitley R, De Clercq E. Therapeutic strategies for COVID-19: progress and lessons learned. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2023; 22:449-475. [PMID: 37076602 PMCID: PMC10113999 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-023-00672-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 127.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023]
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has stimulated tremendous efforts to develop therapeutic strategies that target severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and/or human proteins to control viral infection, encompassing hundreds of potential drugs and thousands of patients in clinical trials. So far, a few small-molecule antiviral drugs (nirmatrelvir-ritonavir, remdesivir and molnupiravir) and 11 monoclonal antibodies have been marketed for the treatment of COVID-19, mostly requiring administration within 10 days of symptom onset. In addition, hospitalized patients with severe or critical COVID-19 may benefit from treatment with previously approved immunomodulatory drugs, including glucocorticoids such as dexamethasone, cytokine antagonists such as tocilizumab and Janus kinase inhibitors such as baricitinib. Here, we summarize progress with COVID-19 drug discovery, based on accumulated findings since the pandemic began and a comprehensive list of clinical and preclinical inhibitors with anti-coronavirus activities. We also discuss the lessons learned from COVID-19 and other infectious diseases with regard to drug repurposing strategies, pan-coronavirus drug targets, in vitro assays and animal models, and platform trial design for the development of therapeutics to tackle COVID-19, long COVID and pathogenic coronaviruses in future outbreaks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guangdi Li
- Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University; Hunan Children's Hospital, Changsha, China.
| | - Rolf Hilgenfeld
- Institute of Molecular Medicine & German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany.
| | - Richard Whitley
- Department of Paediatrics, Microbiology, Medicine and Neurosurgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA.
| | - Erik De Clercq
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Rega Institute for Medical Research, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
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11
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Chen J, Li Y, Liu Z. Functional nucleic acids as potent therapeutics against SARS-CoV-2 infection. CELL REPORTS. PHYSICAL SCIENCE 2023; 4:101249. [PMID: 36714073 PMCID: PMC9869493 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrp.2023.101249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has posed a severe threat to human life and the global economy. Although conventional treatments, including vaccines, antibodies, and small-molecule inhibitors, have been broadly developed, they usually fall behind the constant mutation of SARS-CoV-2, due to the long screening process and high production cost. Functional nucleic acid (FNA)-based therapeutics are a newly emerging promising means against COVID-19, considering their timely adaption to different mutants and easy design for broad-spectrum virus inhibition. In this review, we survey typical FNA-related therapeutics against SARS-CoV-2 infection, including aptamers, aptamer-integrated DNA frameworks, functional RNA, and CRISPR-Cas technology. We first introduce the pathogenesis, transmission, and evolution of SARS-CoV-2, then analyze the existing therapeutic and prophylactic strategies, including their pros and cons. Subsequently, the FNAs are recommended as potent alternative therapeutics from their screening process and controllable engineering to effective neutralization. Finally, we put forward the remaining challenges of the existing field and sketch out the future development directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingran Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Ying Li
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Zhen Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
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12
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Fopase R, Panda C, Rajendran AP, Uludag H, Pandey LM. Potential of siRNA in COVID-19 therapy: Emphasis on in silico design and nanoparticles based delivery. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1112755. [PMID: 36814718 PMCID: PMC9939533 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1112755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Small interfering RNA (siRNA)-mediated mRNA degradation approach have imparted its eminence against several difficult-to-treat genetic disorders and other allied diseases. Viral outbreaks and resulting pandemics have repeatedly threatened public health and questioned human preparedness at the forefront of drug design and biomedical readiness. During the recent pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2, mRNA-based vaccination strategies have paved the way for a new era of RNA therapeutics. RNA Interference (RNAi) based approach using small interfering RNA may complement clinical management of the COVID-19. RNA Interference approach will primarily work by restricting the synthesis of the proteins required for viral replication, thereby hampering viral cellular entry and trafficking by targeting host as well as protein factors. Despite promising benefits, the stability of small interfering RNA in the physiological environment is of grave concern as well as site-directed targeted delivery and evasion of the immune system require immediate attention. In this regard, nanotechnology offers viable solutions for these challenges. The review highlights the potential of small interfering RNAs targeted toward specific regions of the viral genome and the features of nanoformulations necessary for the entrapment and delivery of small interfering RNAs. In silico design of small interfering RNA for different variants of SARS-CoV-2 has been discussed. Various nanoparticles as promising carriers of small interfering RNAs along with their salient properties, including surface functionalization, are summarized. This review will help tackle the real-world challenges encountered by the in vivo delivery of small interfering RNAs, ensuring a safe, stable, and readily available drug candidate for efficient management of SARS-CoV-2 in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rushikesh Fopase
- Bio-Interface & Environmental Engineering Lab, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Assam, India
| | - Chinmaya Panda
- Bio-Interface & Environmental Engineering Lab, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Assam, India
| | - Amarnath P. Rajendran
- Department of Chemical & Materials Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Hasan Uludag
- Department of Chemical & Materials Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada,Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada,*Correspondence: Lalit M. Pandey, ; Hasan Uludag,
| | - Lalit M. Pandey
- Bio-Interface & Environmental Engineering Lab, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Assam, India,*Correspondence: Lalit M. Pandey, ; Hasan Uludag,
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13
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Zhang HP, Sun YL, Wang YF, Yazici D, Azkur D, Ogulur I, Azkur AK, Yang ZW, Chen XX, Zhang AZ, Hu JQ, Liu GH, Akdis M, Akdis CA, Gao YD. Recent developments in the immunopathology of COVID-19. Allergy 2023; 78:369-388. [PMID: 36420736 PMCID: PMC10108124 DOI: 10.1111/all.15593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2022] [Revised: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
There has been an important change in the clinical characteristics and immune profile of Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients during the pandemic thanks to the extensive vaccination programs. Here, we highlight recent studies on COVID-19, from the clinical and immunological characteristics to the protective and risk factors for severity and mortality of COVID-19. The efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccines and potential allergic reactions after administration are also discussed. The occurrence of new variants of concerns such as Omicron BA.2, BA.4, and BA.5 and the global administration of COVID-19 vaccines have changed the clinical scenario of COVID-19. Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) may cause severe and heterogeneous disease but with a lower mortality rate. Perturbations in immunity of T cells, B cells, and mast cells, as well as autoantibodies and metabolic reprogramming may contribute to the long-term symptoms of COVID-19. There is conflicting evidence about whether atopic diseases, such as allergic asthma and rhinitis, are associated with a lower susceptibility and better outcomes of COVID-19. At the beginning of pandemic, the European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (EAACI) developed guidelines that provided timely information for the management of allergic diseases and preventive measures to reduce transmission in the allergic clinics. The global distribution of COVID-19 vaccines and emerging severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variants with reduced pathogenic potential dramatically decreased the morbidity, severity, and mortality of COVID-19. Nevertheless, breakthrough infection remains a challenge for disease control. Hypersensitivity reactions (HSR) to COVID-19 vaccines are low compared to other vaccines, and these were addressed in EAACI statements that provided indications for the management of allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis to COVID-19 vaccines. We have gained a depth knowledge and experience in the over 2 years since the start of the pandemic, and yet a full eradication of SARS-CoV-2 is not on the horizon. Novel strategies are warranted to prevent severe disease in high-risk groups, the development of MIS-C and long COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan-Ping Zhang
- Department of Allergology, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Science, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Yuan-Li Sun
- Department of Allergology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yan-Fen Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Science, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Duygu Yazici
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF), University of Zurich, Davos, Switzerland
| | - Dilek Azkur
- Division of Pediatric Allergy and Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kirikkale, Kirikkale, Turkey
| | - Ismail Ogulur
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF), University of Zurich, Davos, Switzerland
| | - Ahmet Kursat Azkur
- Department of Virology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Kirikkale, Kirikkale, Turkey
| | - Zhao-Wei Yang
- Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiao-Xue Chen
- Department of Allergology, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Science, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Ai-Zhi Zhang
- Intensive Care Unit, The Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Jia-Qian Hu
- Department of Allergology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Guang-Hui Liu
- Department of Allergology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Mübeccel Akdis
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF), University of Zurich, Davos, Switzerland
| | - Cezmi A Akdis
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF), University of Zurich, Davos, Switzerland
| | - Ya-Dong Gao
- Department of Allergology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
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14
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Khaitov M, Nikonova A, Kofiadi I, Shilovskiy I, Smirnov V, Elisytina O, Maerle A, Shatilov A, Shatilova A, Andreev S, Sergeev I, Trofimov D, Latysheva T, Ilyna N, Martynov A, Rabdano S, Ruzanova E, Savelev N, Pletiukhina I, Safi A, Ratnikov V, Gorelov V, Kaschenko V, Kucherenko N, Umarova I, Moskaleva S, Fabrichnikov S, Zuev O, Pavlov N, Kruchko D, Berzin I, Goryachev D, Merkulov V, Shipulin G, Udin S, Trukhin V, Valenta R, Skvortsova V. Treatment of COVID-19 patients with a SARS-CoV-2-specific siRNA-peptide dendrimer formulation. Allergy 2023. [PMID: 36721963 DOI: 10.1111/all.15663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Revised: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Severe acute respiratory syndrome corona virus (SARS-CoV-2) infection frequently causes severe and prolonged disease but only few specific treatments are available. We aimed to investigate safety and efficacy of a SARS-CoV-2-specific siRNA-peptide dendrimer formulation MIR 19® (siR-7-EM/KK-46) targeting a conserved sequence in known SARS-CoV-2 variants for treatment of COVID-19. METHODS We conducted an open-label, randomized, controlled multicenter phase II trial (NCT05184127) evaluating safety and efficacy of inhaled siR-7-EM/KK-46 (3.7 mg and 11.1 mg/day: low and high dose, respectively) in comparison with standard etiotropic drug treatment (control group) in patients hospitalized with moderate COVID-19 (N = 52 for each group). The primary endpoint was the time to clinical improvement according to predefined criteria within 14 days of randomization. RESULTS Patients from the low-dose group achieved the primary endpoint defined by simultaneous achievement of relief of fever, normalization of respiratory rate, reduction of coughing, and oxygen saturation of >95% for 48 h significantly earlier (median 6 days; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 5-7, HR 1.75, p = .0005) than patients from the control group (8 days; 95% CI: 7-10). No significant clinical efficacy was observed for the high-dose group. Adverse events were reported in 26 (50.00%), 25 (48.08%), and 28 (53.85%) patients from the low-, high-dose and control group, respectively. None of them were associated with siR-7-EM/KK-46. CONCLUSIONS siR-7-EM/KK-46, a SARS-CoV-2-specific siRNA-peptide dendrimer formulation is safe, well tolerated and significantly reduces time to clinical improvement in patients hospitalized with moderate COVID-19 compared to standard therapy in a randomized controlled trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Musa Khaitov
- National Research Center (NRC) Institute of Immunology Federal Medical-Biological Agency (FMBA) of Russia, Moscow, Russia.,Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Alexandra Nikonova
- National Research Center (NRC) Institute of Immunology Federal Medical-Biological Agency (FMBA) of Russia, Moscow, Russia.,RUDN University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Ilya Kofiadi
- National Research Center (NRC) Institute of Immunology Federal Medical-Biological Agency (FMBA) of Russia, Moscow, Russia.,Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Igor Shilovskiy
- National Research Center (NRC) Institute of Immunology Federal Medical-Biological Agency (FMBA) of Russia, Moscow, Russia
| | - Valeriy Smirnov
- National Research Center (NRC) Institute of Immunology Federal Medical-Biological Agency (FMBA) of Russia, Moscow, Russia.,I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russia
| | - Olga Elisytina
- National Research Center (NRC) Institute of Immunology Federal Medical-Biological Agency (FMBA) of Russia, Moscow, Russia.,RUDN University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Artem Maerle
- National Research Center (NRC) Institute of Immunology Federal Medical-Biological Agency (FMBA) of Russia, Moscow, Russia
| | - Artem Shatilov
- National Research Center (NRC) Institute of Immunology Federal Medical-Biological Agency (FMBA) of Russia, Moscow, Russia
| | - Anastasia Shatilova
- National Research Center (NRC) Institute of Immunology Federal Medical-Biological Agency (FMBA) of Russia, Moscow, Russia
| | - Sergey Andreev
- National Research Center (NRC) Institute of Immunology Federal Medical-Biological Agency (FMBA) of Russia, Moscow, Russia
| | - Ilya Sergeev
- National Research Center (NRC) Institute of Immunology Federal Medical-Biological Agency (FMBA) of Russia, Moscow, Russia
| | - Dmitry Trofimov
- National Research Center (NRC) Institute of Immunology Federal Medical-Biological Agency (FMBA) of Russia, Moscow, Russia
| | - Tatyana Latysheva
- National Research Center (NRC) Institute of Immunology Federal Medical-Biological Agency (FMBA) of Russia, Moscow, Russia
| | - Natalia Ilyna
- National Research Center (NRC) Institute of Immunology Federal Medical-Biological Agency (FMBA) of Russia, Moscow, Russia
| | - Alexander Martynov
- National Research Center (NRC) Institute of Immunology Federal Medical-Biological Agency (FMBA) of Russia, Moscow, Russia
| | - Sevastyan Rabdano
- Federal State Unitary Enterprise "The Saint Petersburg Scientific Research Institute of Vaccines and Serums and the Enterprise for the Production of Bacterial Preparations" of Federal Medical and Biologic Agency (FSUE SPbSRIVS FMBA of Russia), St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Ellina Ruzanova
- Federal State Unitary Enterprise "The Saint Petersburg Scientific Research Institute of Vaccines and Serums and the Enterprise for the Production of Bacterial Preparations" of Federal Medical and Biologic Agency (FSUE SPbSRIVS FMBA of Russia), St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Nikita Savelev
- Federal State Unitary Enterprise "The Saint Petersburg Scientific Research Institute of Vaccines and Serums and the Enterprise for the Production of Bacterial Preparations" of Federal Medical and Biologic Agency (FSUE SPbSRIVS FMBA of Russia), St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Iuliia Pletiukhina
- Federal State Unitary Enterprise "The Saint Petersburg Scientific Research Institute of Vaccines and Serums and the Enterprise for the Production of Bacterial Preparations" of Federal Medical and Biologic Agency (FSUE SPbSRIVS FMBA of Russia), St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Ariana Safi
- Federal State Unitary Enterprise "The Saint Petersburg Scientific Research Institute of Vaccines and Serums and the Enterprise for the Production of Bacterial Preparations" of Federal Medical and Biologic Agency (FSUE SPbSRIVS FMBA of Russia), St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Vyacheslav Ratnikov
- North-West District Scientific and Clinical Center named after L.G. Sokolov Federal Medical and Biological Agency, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Viktor Gorelov
- North-West District Scientific and Clinical Center named after L.G. Sokolov Federal Medical and Biological Agency, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Viktor Kaschenko
- North-West District Scientific and Clinical Center named after L.G. Sokolov Federal Medical and Biological Agency, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Natalya Kucherenko
- North-West District Scientific and Clinical Center named after L.G. Sokolov Federal Medical and Biological Agency, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Irina Umarova
- North-West District Scientific and Clinical Center named after L.G. Sokolov Federal Medical and Biological Agency, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Svetlana Moskaleva
- North-West District Scientific and Clinical Center named after L.G. Sokolov Federal Medical and Biological Agency, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Sergei Fabrichnikov
- North-West District Scientific and Clinical Center named after L.G. Sokolov Federal Medical and Biological Agency, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Oleg Zuev
- Federal Clinical Center of High Medical Technologies of the Federal Medical and Biological Agency of Russia, Moscow, Russia
| | - Nikolai Pavlov
- Federal Clinical Center of High Medical Technologies of the Federal Medical and Biological Agency of Russia, Moscow, Russia
| | - Daria Kruchko
- Federal Medico-biological Agency of Russia (FMBA Russia), Moscow, Russia
| | - Igor Berzin
- Federal Medico-biological Agency of Russia (FMBA Russia), Moscow, Russia
| | - Dmitriy Goryachev
- Centre for Evaluation and Control of Finished Pharmaceutical Products, Federal State Budgetary Institution "Scientific Centre for Expert Evaluation of Medicinal Products" of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
| | - Vadim Merkulov
- I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russia.,Centre for Evaluation and Control of Finished Pharmaceutical Products, Federal State Budgetary Institution "Scientific Centre for Expert Evaluation of Medicinal Products" of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
| | - German Shipulin
- Centre for Strategic Planning of FMBA of Russia Federal State Budgetary Institution "Centre for Strategic Planning and Management of Biomedical Health Risks" of the Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, Russia
| | - Sergey Udin
- Centre for Strategic Planning of FMBA of Russia Federal State Budgetary Institution "Centre for Strategic Planning and Management of Biomedical Health Risks" of the Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, Russia
| | - Victor Trukhin
- Federal State Unitary Enterprise "The Saint Petersburg Scientific Research Institute of Vaccines and Serums and the Enterprise for the Production of Bacterial Preparations" of Federal Medical and Biologic Agency (FSUE SPbSRIVS FMBA of Russia), St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Rudolf Valenta
- National Research Center (NRC) Institute of Immunology Federal Medical-Biological Agency (FMBA) of Russia, Moscow, Russia.,I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russia.,Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.,Karl Landsteiner University of Healthcare, Krems, Austria
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15
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Gerber PP, Donde MJ, Matheson NJ, Taylor AI. XNAzymes targeting the SARS-CoV-2 genome inhibit viral infection. Nat Commun 2022; 13:6716. [PMID: 36385143 PMCID: PMC9668987 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-34339-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The unprecedented emergence and spread of SARS-CoV-2, the coronavirus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic, underscores the need for diagnostic and therapeutic technologies that can be rapidly tailored to novel threats. Here, we show that site-specific RNA endonuclease XNAzymes - artificial catalysts composed of single-stranded synthetic xeno-nucleic acid oligonucleotides (in this case 2'-deoxy-2'-fluoro-β-D-arabino nucleic acid) - may be designed, synthesised and screened within days, enabling the discovery of a range of enzymes targeting SARS-CoV-2 ORF1ab, ORF7b, spike- and nucleocapsid-encoding RNA. Three of these are further engineered to self-assemble into a catalytic nanostructure with enhanced biostability. This XNA nanostructure is capable of cleaving genomic SARS-CoV-2 RNA under physiological conditions, and when transfected into cells inhibits infection with authentic SARS-CoV-2 virus by RNA knockdown. These results demonstrate the potential of XNAzymes to provide a platform for the rapid generation of antiviral reagents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pehuén Pereyra Gerber
- Cambridge Institute of Therapeutic Immunology & Infectious Disease (CITIID), Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Maria J Donde
- Cambridge Institute of Therapeutic Immunology & Infectious Disease (CITIID), Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Nicholas J Matheson
- Cambridge Institute of Therapeutic Immunology & Infectious Disease (CITIID), Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- NHS Blood and Transplant, Cambridge, UK
| | - Alexander I Taylor
- Cambridge Institute of Therapeutic Immunology & Infectious Disease (CITIID), Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
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16
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A Comprehensive Review on the Current Vaccines and Their Efficacies to Combat SARS-CoV-2 Variants. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:vaccines10101655. [PMID: 36298520 PMCID: PMC9611209 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10101655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2022] [Revised: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the first case of Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in 2019, SARS-CoV-2 infection has affected many individuals worldwide. Eventually, some highly infectious mutants-caused by frequent genetic recombination-have been reported for SARS-CoV-2 that can potentially escape from the immune responses and induce long-term immunity, linked with a high mortality rate. In addition, several reports stated that vaccines designed for the SARS-CoV-2 wild-type variant have mixed responses against the variants of concern (VOCs) and variants of interest (VOIs) in the human population. These results advocate the designing and development of a panvaccine with the potential to neutralize all the possible emerging variants of SARS-CoV-2. In this context, recent discoveries suggest the design of SARS-CoV-2 panvaccines using nanotechnology, siRNA, antibodies or CRISPR-Cas platforms. Thereof, the present comprehensive review summarizes the current vaccine design approaches against SARS-CoV-2 infection, the role of genetic mutations in the emergence of new viral variants, the efficacy of existing vaccines in limiting the infection of emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants, and efforts or challenges in designing SARS panvaccines.
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17
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Abstract
The highly specific induction of RNA interference-mediated gene knockdown, based on the direct application of small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), opens novel avenues towards innovative therapies. Two decades after the discovery of the RNA interference mechanism, the first siRNA drugs received approval for clinical use by the US Food and Drug Administration and the European Medicines Agency between 2018 and 2022. These are mainly based on an siRNA conjugation with a targeting moiety for liver hepatocytes, N-acetylgalactosamine, and cover the treatment of acute hepatic porphyria, transthyretin-mediated amyloidosis, hypercholesterolemia, and primary hyperoxaluria type 1. Still, the development of siRNA therapeutics faces several challenges and issues, including the definition of optimal siRNAs in terms of target, sequence, and chemical modifications, siRNA delivery to its intended site of action, and the absence of unspecific off-target effects. Further siRNA drugs are in clinical studies, based on different delivery systems and covering a wide range of different pathologies including metabolic diseases, hematology, infectious diseases, oncology, ocular diseases, and others. This article reviews the knowledge on siRNA design and chemical modification, as well as issues related to siRNA delivery that may be addressed using different delivery systems. Details on the mode of action and clinical status of the various siRNA therapeutics are provided, before giving an outlook on issues regarding the future of siRNA drugs and on their potential as one emerging standard modality in pharmacotherapy. Notably, this may also cover otherwise un-druggable diseases, the definition of non-coding RNAs as targets, and novel concepts of personalized and combination treatment regimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maik Friedrich
- Faculty of Leipzig, Institute of Clinical Immunology, Max-Bürger-Forschungszentrum (MBFZ), University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany.,Department of Vaccines and Infection Models, Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology IZI, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Achim Aigner
- Rudolf-Boehm Institute for Pharmacology and Toxicology, Clinical Pharmacology, University of Leipzig, Haertelstrasse 16-18, 04107, Leipzig, Germany.
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