1
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Anwar A, Ramis De Ayreflor Reyes S, John AA, Breiling E, O'Connor AM, Reis S, Shim JH, Shah AA, Srinivasan J, Farny NG. Nucleic acid aptamers protect against lead (Pb(II)) toxicity. N Biotechnol 2024; 83:36-45. [PMID: 38925526 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbt.2024.06.004] [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: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Lead (Pb(II)) is a pervasive heavy metal toxin with many well-established negative effects on human health. Lead toxicity arises from cumulative, repeated environmental exposures. Thus, prophylactic strategies to protect against the bioaccumulation of lead could reduce lead-associated human pathologies. Here we show that DNA and RNA aptamers protect C. elegans from toxic phenotypes caused by lead. Reproductive toxicity, as measured by brood size assays, is prevented by co-feeding of animals with DNA or RNA aptamers. Similarly, lead-induced neurotoxicity, measured by behavioral assays, are also normalized by aptamer feeding. Further, cultured human HEK293 and primary murine osteoblasts are protected from lead toxicity by transfection with DNA aptamers. The osteogenic development, which is decreased by lead exposure, is maintained by prior transfection of lead-binding DNA aptamers. Aptamers may be an effective strategy for the protection of human health in the face of increasing environmental toxicants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afreen Anwar
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 100 Institute Road, Worcester, MA 01609, USA; Department of Biotechnology, Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University, Rajouri, J&K, India
| | | | - Aijaz Ahmad John
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Erik Breiling
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 100 Institute Road, Worcester, MA 01609, USA
| | - Abigail M O'Connor
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 100 Institute Road, Worcester, MA 01609, USA
| | - Stephanie Reis
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 100 Institute Road, Worcester, MA 01609, USA
| | - Jae-Hyuck Shim
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA; Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA; Li Weibo Institute for Rare Diseases Research, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Ali Asghar Shah
- Department of Biotechnology, Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University, Rajouri, J&K, India
| | - Jagan Srinivasan
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 100 Institute Road, Worcester, MA 01609, USA; Program in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 100 Institute Road, Worcester, MA 01609, USA; Program in Neuroscience, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 100 Institute Road, Worcester, MA 01609, USA
| | - Natalie G Farny
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 100 Institute Road, Worcester, MA 01609, USA; Program in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 100 Institute Road, Worcester, MA 01609, USA; Program in Neuroscience, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 100 Institute Road, Worcester, MA 01609, USA.
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2
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Domsicova M, Korcekova J, Poturnayova A, Breier A. New Insights into Aptamers: An Alternative to Antibodies in the Detection of Molecular Biomarkers. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6833. [PMID: 38999943 PMCID: PMC11240909 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25136833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2024] [Revised: 06/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Aptamers are short oligonucleotides with single-stranded regions or peptides that recently started to transform the field of diagnostics. Their unique ability to bind to specific target molecules with high affinity and specificity is at least comparable to many traditional biorecognition elements. Aptamers are synthetically produced, with a compact size that facilitates deeper tissue penetration and improved cellular targeting. Furthermore, they can be easily modified with various labels or functional groups, tailoring them for diverse applications. Even more uniquely, aptamers can be regenerated after use, making aptasensors a cost-effective and sustainable alternative compared to disposable biosensors. This review delves into the inherent properties of aptamers that make them advantageous in established diagnostic methods. Furthermore, we will examine some of the limitations of aptamers, such as the need to engage in bioinformatics procedures in order to understand the relationship between the structure of the aptamer and its binding abilities. The objective is to develop a targeted design for specific targets. We analyse the process of aptamer selection and design by exploring the current landscape of aptamer utilisation across various industries. Here, we illuminate the potential advantages and applications of aptamers in a range of diagnostic techniques, with a specific focus on quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) aptasensors and their integration into the well-established ELISA method. This review serves as a comprehensive resource, summarising the latest knowledge and applications of aptamers, particularly highlighting their potential to revolutionise diagnostic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michaela Domsicova
- Centre of Biosciences, Institute of Molecular Physiology and Genetics, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dúbravská Cesta 9, 84005 Bratislava, Slovakia; (M.D.); (J.K.); (A.P.)
| | - Jana Korcekova
- Centre of Biosciences, Institute of Molecular Physiology and Genetics, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dúbravská Cesta 9, 84005 Bratislava, Slovakia; (M.D.); (J.K.); (A.P.)
| | - Alexandra Poturnayova
- Centre of Biosciences, Institute of Molecular Physiology and Genetics, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dúbravská Cesta 9, 84005 Bratislava, Slovakia; (M.D.); (J.K.); (A.P.)
| | - Albert Breier
- Centre of Biosciences, Institute of Molecular Physiology and Genetics, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dúbravská Cesta 9, 84005 Bratislava, Slovakia; (M.D.); (J.K.); (A.P.)
- Institute of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Faculty of Chemical and Food Technology, Slovak University of Technology in Bratislava, Radlinského 9, 81237 Bratislava, Slovakia
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3
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Mahjoubin-Tehran M, Rezaei S, Santos RD, Jamialahmadi T, Almahmeed W, Sahebkar A. Targeting PCSK9 as a key player in lipid metabolism: exploiting the therapeutic and biosensing potential of aptamers. Lipids Health Dis 2024; 23:156. [PMID: 38796450 PMCID: PMC11128129 DOI: 10.1186/s12944-024-02151-8] [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: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The degradation of low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) is induced by proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9), resulting in elevated plasma concentrations of LDL cholesterol. Therefore, inhibiting the interactions between PCSK9 and LDLR is a desirable therapeutic goal for managing hypercholesterolemia. Aptamers, which are RNA or single-stranded DNA sequences, can recognize their targets based on their secondary structure. Aptamers exhibit high selectivity and affinity for binding to target molecules. The systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment (SELEX), a combination of biological approaches, is used to screen most aptamers in vitro. Due to their unique advantages, aptamers have garnered significant interest since their discovery and have found extensive applications in various fields. Aptamers have been increasingly utilized in the development of biosensors for sensitive detection of pathogens, analytes, toxins, drug residues, and malignant cells. Furthermore, similar to monoclonal antibodies, aptamers can serve as therapeutic tools. Unlike certain protein therapeutics, aptamers do not elicit antibody responses, and their modified sugars at the 2'-positions generally prevent toll-like receptor-mediated innate immune responses. The focus of this review is on aptamer-based targeting of PCSK9 and the application of aptamers both as biosensors and therapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Mahjoubin-Tehran
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Samaneh Rezaei
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Nanotechnology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Raul D Santos
- Lipid Clinic Heart Institute (Incor), University of São Paulo, Medical School Hospital, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Tannaz Jamialahmadi
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Medical Toxicology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Wael Almahmeed
- Heart and Vascular Institute, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
- Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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4
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Huynh M, Vinck R, Gibert B, Gasser G. Strategies for the Nuclear Delivery of Metal Complexes to Cancer Cells. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2311437. [PMID: 38174785 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202311437] [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: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
The nucleus is an essential organelle for the function of cells. It holds most of the genetic material and plays a crucial role in the regulation of cell growth and proliferation. Since many antitumoral therapies target nucleic acids to induce cell death, tumor-specific nuclear drug delivery could potentiate therapeutic effects and prevent potential off-target side effects on healthy tissue. Due to their great structural variety, good biocompatibility, and unique physico-chemical properties, organometallic complexes and other metal-based compounds have sparked great interest as promising anticancer agents. In this review, strategies for specific nuclear delivery of metal complexes are summarized and discussed to highlight crucial parameters to consider for the design of new metal complexes as anticancer drug candidates. Moreover, the existing opportunities and challenges of tumor-specific, nucleus-targeting metal complexes are emphasized to outline some new perspectives and help in the design of new cancer treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Huynh
- Chimie ParisTech, PSL University, CNRS, Institute of Chemistry of Life and Health Sciences, Laboratory for Inorganic Chemistry, Paris, F-75005, France
- Gastroenterology and technologies for Health, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, INSERM U1052-CNRS5286, Université Lyon 1, Lyon, 69008, France
| | - Robin Vinck
- Orano, 125 avenue de Paris, Châtillon, 92320, France
| | - Benjamin Gibert
- Gastroenterology and technologies for Health, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, INSERM U1052-CNRS5286, Université Lyon 1, Lyon, 69008, France
| | - Gilles Gasser
- Chimie ParisTech, PSL University, CNRS, Institute of Chemistry of Life and Health Sciences, Laboratory for Inorganic Chemistry, Paris, F-75005, France
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5
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Anwar A, De Ayreflor Reyes SR, John AA, Breiling E, O’Connor AM, Reis S, Shim JH, Shah AA, Srinivasan J, Farny NG. Nucleic Acid Aptamers Protect Against Lead (Pb(II)) Toxicity. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.03.28.587288. [PMID: 38585880 PMCID: PMC10996642 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.28.587288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Lead (Pb(II)) is a pervasive heavy metal toxin with many well-established negative effects on human health. Lead toxicity arises from cumulative, repeated environmental exposures. Thus, prophylactic strategies to protect against the bioaccumulation of lead could reduce lead-associated human pathologies. Here we show that DNA and RNA aptamers protect C. elegans from toxic phenotypes caused by lead. Reproductive toxicity, as measured by brood size assays, is prevented by co-feeding of animals with DNA or RNA aptamers. Similarly, lead-induced behavioral anomalies are also normalized by aptamer feeding. Further, cultured human HEK293 and primary murine osteoblasts are protected from lead toxicity by transfection with DNA aptamers. The osteogenic development, which is decreased by lead exposure, is maintained by prior transfection of lead-binding DNA aptamers. Aptamers may be an effective strategy for the protection of human health in the face of increasing environmental toxicants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afreen Anwar
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 100 Institute Road, Worcester, MA, 01609, USA
- Department of Biotechnology, Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University, Rajouri (J&K), India
| | | | - Aijaz Ahmad John
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Erik Breiling
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 100 Institute Road, Worcester, MA, 01609, USA
| | - Abigail M. O’Connor
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 100 Institute Road, Worcester, MA, 01609, USA
| | - Stephanie Reis
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 100 Institute Road, Worcester, MA, 01609, USA
| | - Jae-Hyuck Shim
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
- Li Weibo Institute for Rare Diseases Research, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Ali Asghar Shah
- Department of Biotechnology, Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University, Rajouri (J&K), India
| | - Jagan Srinivasan
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 100 Institute Road, Worcester, MA, 01609, USA
- Program in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 100 Institute Road, Worcester, MA, 01609, USA
- Program in Neuroscience, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 100 Institute Road, Worcester, MA, 01609, USA
| | - Natalie G. Farny
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 100 Institute Road, Worcester, MA, 01609, USA
- Program in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 100 Institute Road, Worcester, MA, 01609, USA
- Program in Neuroscience, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 100 Institute Road, Worcester, MA, 01609, USA
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6
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Requena MD, Yan A, Llanga T, Sullenger BA. Reversible Aptamer Staining, Sorting, and Cleaning of Cells (Clean FACS) with Antidote Oligonucleotide or Nuclease Yields Fully Responsive Cells. Nucleic Acid Ther 2024; 34:12-17. [PMID: 38285522 PMCID: PMC11302193 DOI: 10.1089/nat.2023.0050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2024] Open
Abstract
The ability to reverse the binding of aptamers to their target proteins has received considerable attention for developing controllable therapeutic agents. Recently, use of aptamers as reversible cell-sorting ligands has also sparked interest. Antibodies are currently utilized for isolating cells expressing a particular cell surface receptor. The inability to remove antibodies from isolated cells following sorting greatly limits their utility for many applications. Previously, we described how a particular aptamer-antidote oligonucleotide pair can isolate cells and clean them. Here, we demonstrate that this approach is generalizable; aptamers can simultaneously recognize more than one cell type during fluorescent activated cell sorting (FACS). Moreover, we describe a novel approach to reverse aptamer binding following cell sorting using a nuclease. This alternative strategy represents a cleaning approach that does not require the generation of antidote oligonucleotides for each aptamer and will greatly reduce the cost and expand the utility of Clean FACS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin D. Requena
- Department of Surgery, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- University Program in Genetics and Genomics, and Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Amy Yan
- Department of Surgery, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Telmo Llanga
- Department of Surgery, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Bruce A. Sullenger
- Department of Surgery, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- University Program in Genetics and Genomics, and Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
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7
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Thumtecho S, Burlet NJ, Ljungars A, Laustsen AH. Towards better antivenoms: navigating the road to new types of snakebite envenoming therapies. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2023; 29:e20230057. [PMID: 38116472 PMCID: PMC10729942 DOI: 10.1590/1678-9199-jvatitd-2023-0057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Snakebite envenoming is a significant global health challenge, and for over a century, traditional plasma-derived antivenoms from hyperimmunized animals have been the primary treatment against this infliction. However, these antivenoms have several inherent limitations, including the risk of causing adverse reactions when administered to patients, batch-to-batch variation, and high production costs. To address these issues and improve treatment outcomes, the development of new types of antivenoms is crucial. During this development, key aspects such as improved clinical efficacy, enhanced safety profiles, and greater affordability should be in focus. To achieve these goals, modern biotechnological methods can be applied to the discovery and development of therapeutic agents that can neutralize medically important toxins from multiple snake species. This review highlights some of these agents, including monoclonal antibodies, nanobodies, and selected small molecules, that can achieve broad toxin neutralization, have favorable safety profiles, and can be produced on a large scale with standardized manufacturing processes. Considering the inherent strengths and limitations related to the pharmacokinetics of these different agents, a combination of them might be beneficial in the development of new types of antivenom products with improved therapeutic properties. While the implementation of new therapies requires time, it is foreseeable that the application of biotechnological advancements represents a promising trajectory toward the development of improved therapies for snakebite envenoming. As research and development continue to advance, these new products could emerge as the mainstay treatment in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suthimon Thumtecho
- Division of Toxicology, Department of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, the Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok, Thailand
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Nick J. Burlet
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Anne Ljungars
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Andreas H. Laustsen
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
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8
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Kong AHY, Wu AJ, Ho OKY, Leung MMK, Huang AS, Yu Y, Zhang G, Lyu A, Li M, Cheung KH. Exploring the Potential of Aptamers in Targeting Neuroinflammation and Neurodegenerative Disorders: Opportunities and Challenges. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11780. [PMID: 37511539 PMCID: PMC10380291 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuroinflammation is the precursor for several neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs), such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), and multiple sclerosis (MS). Targeting neuroinflammation has emerged as a promising strategy to address a wide range of CNS pathologies. These NDDs still present significant challenges in terms of limited and ineffective diagnosis and treatment options, driving the need to explore innovative and novel therapeutic alternatives. Aptamers are single-stranded nucleic acids that offer the potential for addressing these challenges through diagnostic and therapeutic applications. In this review, we summarize diagnostic and therapeutic aptamers for inflammatory biomolecules, as well as the inflammatory cells in NDDs. We also discussed the potential of short nucleotides for Aptamer-Based Targeted Brain Delivery through their unique features and modifications, as well as their ability to penetrate the blood-brain barrier. Moreover, the unprecedented opportunities and substantial challenges of using aptamers as therapeutic agents, such as drug efficacy, safety considerations, and pharmacokinetics, are also discussed. Taken together, this review assesses the potential of aptamers as a pioneering approach for target delivery to the CNS and the treatment of neuroinflammation and NDDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Hau-Yee Kong
- Teaching and Research Division, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Aston Jiaxi Wu
- Teaching and Research Division, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Olivia Ka-Yi Ho
- Teaching and Research Division, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Maggie Ming-Ki Leung
- Teaching and Research Division, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Alexis Shiying Huang
- Teaching and Research Division, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yuanyuan Yu
- Law Sau Fai Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone & Joint Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area International Research Platform for Aptamer-Based Translational Medicine and Drug Discovery, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ge Zhang
- Law Sau Fai Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone & Joint Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area International Research Platform for Aptamer-Based Translational Medicine and Drug Discovery, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Aiping Lyu
- Law Sau Fai Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone & Joint Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area International Research Platform for Aptamer-Based Translational Medicine and Drug Discovery, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Min Li
- Teaching and Research Division, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - King-Ho Cheung
- Teaching and Research Division, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong SAR, China
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9
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Gray BP, Kelly L, Steen-Burrell KA, Layzer JM, Rempel RE, Nimjee SM, Cooley BC, Tarantal AF, Sullenger BA. Rapid molecular imaging of active thrombi in vivo using aptamer-antidote probes. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2023; 31:440-451. [PMID: 36817726 PMCID: PMC9930157 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2023.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Pathological blood clotting, or thrombosis, limits vital blood flow to organs; such deprivation can lead to catastrophic events including myocardial infarction, pulmonary embolism, and ischemic stroke. Prompt restoration of blood flow greatly improves outcomes. We explored whether aptamers could serve as molecular imaging probes to rapidly detect thrombi. An aptamer targeting thrombin, Tog25t, was found to rapidly localize to and visualize pre-existing clots in the femoral and jugular veins of mice using fluorescence imaging and, when circulating, was able to image clots as they form. Since free aptamer is quickly cleared from circulation, contrast is rapidly developed, allowing clot visualization within minutes. Moreover, administration of an antidote oligonucleotide further enhanced contrast development, causing the unbound aptamer to clear within 5min while impacting the clot-bound aptamer more slowly. These findings suggest that aptamers can serve as imaging agents for rapid detection of thrombi in acute care and perioperative settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bethany Powell Gray
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Linsley Kelly
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | | | - Juliana M. Layzer
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Rachel E. Rempel
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Shahid M. Nimjee
- Department of Neurological Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Brian C. Cooley
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7525, USA
| | - Alice F. Tarantal
- Departments of Pediatrics and Cell Biology and Human Anatomy, School of Medicine, and California National Primate Research Center, University of California Davis, Davis, CA 95616-8542, USA
| | - Bruce A. Sullenger
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
- Departments of Pharmacology & Cancer Biology and Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
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10
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A review on the therapeutic applications of aptamers and aptamer-conjugated nanoparticles in cancer, inflammatory and viral diseases. ARAB J CHEM 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.arabjc.2021.103626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
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11
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Hervey JRD, Freund N, Houlihan G, Dhaliwal G, Holliger P, Taylor AI. Efficient synthesis and replication of diverse sequence libraries composed of biostable nucleic acid analogues. RSC Chem Biol 2022; 3:1209-1215. [PMID: 36320888 PMCID: PMC9533476 DOI: 10.1039/d2cb00035k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Functional nucleic acids can be evolved in vitro using cycles of selection and amplification, starting from diverse-sequence libraries, which are typically restricted to natural or partially-modified polymer chemistries. Here, we describe the efficient DNA-templated synthesis and reverse transcription of libraries entirely composed of serum nuclease resistant alternative nucleic acid chemistries validated in nucleic acid therapeutics; locked nucleic acid (LNA), 2′-O-methyl-RNA (2′OMe-RNA), or mixtures of the two. We evaluate yield and diversity of synthesised libraries and measure the aggregate error rate of a selection cycle. We find that in addition to pure 2′-O-methyl-RNA and LNA, several 2′OMe-RNA/LNA blends seem suitable and promising for discovery of biostable functional nucleic acids for biomedical applications. Blends of engineered polymerases enable efficient DNA-templated synthesis and reverse transcription of diverse-sequence oligonucleotide libraries composed of locked nucleic acid (LNA), 2′-O-methyl-RNA (2′OMe-RNA), or mixtures of the two.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- John R. D. Hervey
- Cambridge Institute of Therapeutic Immunology & Infectious Disease (CITIID), University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0AW, UK
| | - Niklas Freund
- Medical Research Council Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge, CB2 0QH, UK
| | - Gillian Houlihan
- Medical Research Council Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge, CB2 0QH, UK
| | - Gurpreet Dhaliwal
- Cambridge Institute of Therapeutic Immunology & Infectious Disease (CITIID), University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0AW, UK
| | - Philipp Holliger
- Medical Research Council Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge, CB2 0QH, UK
| | - Alexander I. Taylor
- Cambridge Institute of Therapeutic Immunology & Infectious Disease (CITIID), University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0AW, UK
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12
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Weaver SD, Whelan RJ. Characterization of DNA aptamer-protein binding using fluorescence anisotropy assays in low-volume, high-efficiency plates. ANALYTICAL METHODS : ADVANCING METHODS AND APPLICATIONS 2021; 13:1302-1307. [PMID: 33533761 DOI: 10.1039/d0ay02256j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Aptamers have many useful attributes including specific binding to molecular targets. After aptamers are identified, their target binding must be characterized. Fluorescence anisotropy (FA) is one technique that can be used to characterize affinity and to optimize aptamer-target interactions. Efforts to make FA assays more efficient by reducing assay volume and time from mixing to measurement may save time and resources by minimizing consumption of costly reagents. Here, we use thrombin and two thrombin-binding aptamers as a model system to show that plate-based FA experiments can be performed in volumes as low as 2 μL per well with 20 minute incubations with minimal loss in assay precision. We demonstrate that the aptamer-thrombin interaction is best modelled with the Hill equation, indicating cooperative binding. The miniaturization of this assay has implications in drug development, as well as in the efficiency of aptamer selection workflows by allowing for higher throughput aptamer analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon D Weaver
- Integrated Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, USA
| | - Rebecca J Whelan
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, USA.
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Hu J, Hodgkinson CP, Pratt RE, Lee J, Sullenger BA, Dzau VJ. Enhancing cardiac reprogramming via synthetic RNA oligonucleotides. MOLECULAR THERAPY-NUCLEIC ACIDS 2020; 23:55-62. [PMID: 33335792 PMCID: PMC7723775 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2020.10.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Reprogramming scar fibroblasts into new heart muscle cells has the potential to restore function to the injured heart. However, the effectiveness of reprogramming is notably low. We have recently demonstrated that the effectiveness of reprogramming fibroblasts into heart muscle cells (cardiomyocytes) is increased by the addition of RNA-sensing receptor ligands. Clinical use of these ligands is problematic due to their ability to induce adverse inflammatory events. To overcome this issue, we sought to determine whether synthetic analogs of natural RNA-sensing receptor ligands, which avoid generating inflammatory insults and are nuclease resistant, would similarly enhance fibroblast reprogramming into cardiomyocytes. Indeed, one such stabilized RNA, ICR2, increased the expression of cardiomyocyte-specific mRNAs in reprogrammed fibroblasts. Moreover, ICR2 enhanced the ability of reprogramming factors to produce cardiomyocytes with mature sarcomeres. Knockdown assays indicated that the effects of ICR2 were mediated by the RNA-sensing receptors Rig-I and TLR3. In addition, ICR2 reduced the effective dose and number of reprogramming factors needed for efficient reprogramming. In summary, the synthetic RNA oligonucleotide ICR2 is a potential therapeutic agent to enhance cardiac reprogramming efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiabiao Hu
- Mandel Center for Heart and Vascular Research, and the Duke Cardiovascular Research Center, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Conrad P Hodgkinson
- Mandel Center for Heart and Vascular Research, and the Duke Cardiovascular Research Center, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Richard E Pratt
- Mandel Center for Heart and Vascular Research, and the Duke Cardiovascular Research Center, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - JaeWoo Lee
- Department of Surgery, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | | | - Victor J Dzau
- Mandel Center for Heart and Vascular Research, and the Duke Cardiovascular Research Center, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
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Nishimura JI. Innovative Therapeutic Strategies in the Molecular Targeting Era. Curr Med Chem 2020; 27:4155-4156. [DOI: 10.2174/092986732725200619144223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jun-Ichi Nishimura
- Department of Hematology and Oncology Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine Suita, Osaka, Japan
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