1
|
Abou Madawi NA, Darwish ZE, Omar EM. Targeted gene therapy for cancer: the impact of microRNA multipotentiality. Med Oncol 2024; 41:214. [PMID: 39088082 PMCID: PMC11294399 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-024-02450-1] [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: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
Cancer is a life-threatening disease and its management is difficult due to its complex nature. Cancer is characterized by genomic instability and tumor-associated inflammation of the supporting stoma. With the advances in omics science, a treatment strategy for cancer has emerged, which is based on targeting cancer-driving molecules, known as targeted therapy. Gene therapy, a form of targeted therapy, is the introduction of nucleic acids into living cells to replace a defective gene, promote or repress gene expression to treat a disease. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) that regulate gene expression and thus are involved in physiological processes like cell proliferation, differentiation, and cell death. miRNAs control the actions of many genes. They are deregulated in cancer and their abnormal expression influences genetic and epigenetic alterations inducing carcinogenesis. In this review, we will explain the role of miRNAs in normal and abnormal gene expression and their usefulness in monitoring cancer patients. Besides, we will discuss miRNA-based therapy as a method of gene therapy and its impact on the success of cancer management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nourhan A Abou Madawi
- Oral Pathology Department, Faculty of Dentistry, Alexandria University, Champollion Street, Azarita, 21521, Alexandria, Egypt.
| | - Zeinab E Darwish
- Oral Pathology Department, Faculty of Dentistry, Alexandria University, Champollion Street, Azarita, 21521, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Enas M Omar
- Oral Pathology Department, Faculty of Dentistry, Alexandria University, Champollion Street, Azarita, 21521, Alexandria, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Penchovsky R, Georgieva AV, Dyakova V, Traykovska M, Pavlova N. Antisense and Functional Nucleic Acids in Rational Drug Development. Antibiotics (Basel) 2024; 13:221. [PMID: 38534656 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics13030221] [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: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 02/25/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
This review is focused on antisense and functional nucleic acid used for completely rational drug design and drug target assessment, aiming to reduce the time and money spent and increase the successful rate of drug development. Nucleic acids have unique properties that play two essential roles in drug development as drug targets and as drugs. Drug targets can be messenger, ribosomal, non-coding RNAs, ribozymes, riboswitches, and other RNAs. Furthermore, various antisense and functional nucleic acids can be valuable tools in drug discovery. Many mechanisms for RNA-based control of gene expression in both pro-and-eukaryotes and engineering approaches open new avenues for drug discovery with a critical role. This review discusses the design principles, applications, and prospects of antisense and functional nucleic acids in drug delivery and design. Such nucleic acids include antisense oligonucleotides, synthetic ribozymes, and siRNAs, which can be employed for rational antibacterial drug development that can be very efficient. An important feature of antisense and functional nucleic acids is the possibility of using rational design methods for drug development. This review aims to popularize these novel approaches to benefit the drug industry and patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert Penchovsky
- Laboratory of Synthetic Biology and Bioinformatics, Faculty of Biology, Sofia University, "St. Kliment Ohridski", 8 Dragan Tzankov Blvd., 1164 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Antoniya V Georgieva
- Laboratory of Synthetic Biology and Bioinformatics, Faculty of Biology, Sofia University, "St. Kliment Ohridski", 8 Dragan Tzankov Blvd., 1164 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Vanya Dyakova
- Laboratory of Synthetic Biology and Bioinformatics, Faculty of Biology, Sofia University, "St. Kliment Ohridski", 8 Dragan Tzankov Blvd., 1164 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Martina Traykovska
- Laboratory of Synthetic Biology and Bioinformatics, Faculty of Biology, Sofia University, "St. Kliment Ohridski", 8 Dragan Tzankov Blvd., 1164 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Nikolet Pavlova
- Laboratory of Synthetic Biology and Bioinformatics, Faculty of Biology, Sofia University, "St. Kliment Ohridski", 8 Dragan Tzankov Blvd., 1164 Sofia, Bulgaria
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Popova KB, Penchovsky R. General and Specific Cytotoxicity of Chimeric Antisense Oligonucleotides in Bacterial Cells and Human Cell Lines. Antibiotics (Basel) 2024; 13:122. [PMID: 38391508 PMCID: PMC10885958 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics13020122] [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: 12/31/2023] [Revised: 01/21/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
In the last two decades, antisense oligonucleotide technology has emerged as a promising approach to tackling various healthcare issues and diseases, such as antimicrobial resistance, cancer, and neurodegenerative diseases. Despite the numerous improvements in the structure and modifications of the antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), there are still specific problems with their clinical efficacy and preclinical cytotoxicity results. To better understand the effects of the ASOs in this paper, we conducted many MTT assays to assess the general and specific cytotoxicity of four new chimeric ASOs in bacterial cells and human cell lines. We demonstrate the absence of inhibitory activity in the human pathogenic bacteria Staphylococcus aureus by non-specific ASOs. The pVEC-ASO1 and pVEC-ASO2 are designed to have no specific targets in S. aureus. They have only partial hybridization to the guanylate kinase mRNA. The pVEC-ASO3 targets UBA2 mRNA, a hallmark cancer pathology in MYC-driven cancer, while pVEC-ASO4 has no complementary sequences. We discovered some cytotoxicity of the non-specific ASOs in healthy and cancer human cell lines. The results are compared with two other ASOs, targeting specific mRNA in cancer cells. All ASOs are delivered into the cell via the cell-penetrating oligopeptide pVEC, which is attached to them. We draw a good correlation between the thermodynamic stability of ASO/target RNA and the toxicity effect in human cell lines. The data obtained signify the importance of thorough bioinformatic analysis and high specificity in designing and developing novel ASOs for safer therapeutic agents in clinical practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katya B Popova
- Laboratory of Synthetic Biology and Bioinformatics, Faculty of Biology, Sofia University "St. Kliment Ohridski", 8 Dragan Tzankov Blvd., 1164 Sofia, Bulgaria
- Institute for Nuclear Research and Nuclear Energy, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 1784 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Robert Penchovsky
- Laboratory of Synthetic Biology and Bioinformatics, Faculty of Biology, Sofia University "St. Kliment Ohridski", 8 Dragan Tzankov Blvd., 1164 Sofia, Bulgaria
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Kola NS, Patel D, Thakur A. RNA-Based Vaccines and Therapeutics Against Intracellular Pathogens. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2813:321-370. [PMID: 38888787 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3890-3_21] [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] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
RNA-based vaccines have sparked a paradigm shift in the treatment and prevention of diseases by nucleic acid medicines. There has been a notable surge in the development of nucleic acid therapeutics and vaccines following the global approval of the two messenger RNA-based COVID-19 vaccines. This growth is fueled by the exploration of numerous RNA products in preclinical stages, offering several advantages over conventional methods, i.e., safety, efficacy, scalability, and cost-effectiveness. In this chapter, we provide an overview of various types of RNA and their mechanisms of action for stimulating immune responses and inducing therapeutic effects. Furthermore, this chapter delves into the varying delivery systems, particularly emphasizing the use of nanoparticles to deliver RNA. The choice of delivery system is an intricate process involved in developing nucleic acid medicines that significantly enhances their stability, biocompatibility, and site-specificity. Additionally, this chapter sheds light on the current landscape of clinical trials of RNA therapeutics and vaccines against intracellular pathogens.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Naga Suresh Kola
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Dhruv Patel
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Aneesh Thakur
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Yan Y, Ren Y, Bao Y, Wang Y. RNA splicing alterations in lung cancer pathogenesis and therapy. CANCER PATHOGENESIS AND THERAPY 2023; 1:272-283. [PMID: 38327600 PMCID: PMC10846331 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpt.2023.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
RNA splicing alterations are widespread and play critical roles in cancer pathogenesis and therapy. Lung cancer is highly heterogeneous and causes the most cancer-related deaths worldwide. Large-scale multi-omics studies have not only characterized the mutational landscapes but also discovered a plethora of transcriptional and post-transcriptional changes in lung cancer. Such resources have greatly facilitated the development of new diagnostic markers and therapeutic options over the past two decades. Intriguingly, altered RNA splicing has emerged as an important molecular feature and therapeutic target of lung cancer. In this review, we provide a brief overview of splicing dysregulation in lung cancer and summarize the recent progress on key splicing events and splicing factors that contribute to lung cancer pathogenesis. Moreover, we describe the general strategies targeting splicing alterations in lung cancer and highlight the potential of combining splicing modulation with currently approved therapies to combat this deadly disease. This review provides new mechanistic and therapeutic insights into splicing dysregulation in cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yueren Yan
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Yunpeng Ren
- Department of Cellular and Genetic Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Imaging Computing and Computer Assisted Intervention, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Yufang Bao
- Department of Cellular and Genetic Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Imaging Computing and Computer Assisted Intervention, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Yongbo Wang
- Department of Cellular and Genetic Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Imaging Computing and Computer Assisted Intervention, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Mehta M, Raguraman R, Ramesh R, Munshi A. RNA binding proteins (RBPs) and their role in DNA damage and radiation response in cancer. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2022; 191:114569. [PMID: 36252617 PMCID: PMC10411638 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2022.114569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Traditionally majority of eukaryotic gene expression is influenced by transcriptional and post-transcriptional events. Alterations in the expression of proteins that act post-transcriptionally can affect cellular signaling and homeostasis. RNA binding proteins (RBPs) are a family of proteins that specifically bind to RNAs and are involved in post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression and important cellular processes such as cell differentiation and metabolism. Deregulation of RNA-RBP interactions and any changes in RBP expression or function can lead to various diseases including cancer. In cancer cells, RBPs play an important role in regulating the expression of tumor suppressors and oncoproteins involved in various cell-signaling pathways. Several RBPs such as HuR, AUF1, RBM38, LIN28, RBM24, tristetrapolin family and Musashi play critical roles in various types of cancers and their aberrant expression in cancer cells makes them an attractive therapeutic target for cancer treatment. In this review we provide an overview of i). RBPs involved in cancer progression and their mechanism of action ii). the role of RBPs, including HuR, in breast cancer progression and DNA damage response and iii). explore RBPs with emphasis on HuR as therapeutic target for breast cancer therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Meghna Mehta
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73013, USA; Stephenson Cancer Center, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73013, USA
| | - Rajeswari Raguraman
- Department of Pathology, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73013, USA; Stephenson Cancer Center, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73013, USA
| | - Rajagopal Ramesh
- Department of Pathology, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73013, USA; Stephenson Cancer Center, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73013, USA
| | - Anupama Munshi
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73013, USA; Stephenson Cancer Center, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73013, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Barresi V, Musmeci C, Rinaldi A, Condorelli DF. Transcript-Targeted Therapy Based on RNA Interference and Antisense Oligonucleotides: Current Applications and Novel Molecular Targets. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23168875. [PMID: 36012138 PMCID: PMC9408055 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23168875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of novel target therapies based on the use of RNA interference (RNAi) and antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) is growing in an exponential way, challenging the chance for the treatment of the genetic diseases and cancer by hitting selectively targeted RNA in a sequence-dependent manner. Multiple opportunities are taking shape, able to remove defective protein by silencing RNA (e.g., Inclisiran targets mRNA of protein PCSK9, permitting a longer half-life of LDL receptors in heterozygous familial hypercholesteremia), by arresting mRNA translation (i.e., Fomivirsen that binds to UL123-RNA and blocks the translation into IE2 protein in CMV-retinitis), or by reactivating modified functional protein (e.g., Eteplirsen able to restore a functional shorter dystrophin by skipping the exon 51 in Duchenne muscular dystrophy) or a not very functional protein. In this last case, the use of ASOs permits modifying the expression of specific proteins by modulating splicing of specific pre-RNAs (e.g., Nusinersen acts on the splicing of exon 7 in SMN2 mRNA normally not expressed; it is used for spinal muscular atrophy) or by downregulation of transcript levels (e.g., Inotersen acts on the transthryretin mRNA to reduce its expression; it is prescribed for the treatment of hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis) in order to restore the biochemical/physiological condition and ameliorate quality of life. In the era of precision medicine, recently, an experimental splice-modulating antisense oligonucleotide, Milasen, was designed and used to treat an 8-year-old girl affected by a rare, fatal, progressive form of neurodegenerative disease leading to death during adolescence. In this review, we summarize the main transcriptional therapeutic drugs approved to date for the treatment of genetic diseases by principal regulatory government agencies and recent clinical trials aimed at the treatment of cancer. Their mechanism of action, chemical structure, administration, and biomedical performance are predominantly discussed.
Collapse
|
8
|
Berber B, Aydin C, Kocabas F, Guney-Esken G, Yilancioglu K, Karadag-Alpaslan M, Caliseki M, Yuce M, Demir S, Tastan C. Gene editing and RNAi approaches for COVID-19 diagnostics and therapeutics. Gene Ther 2021; 28:290-305. [PMID: 33318646 PMCID: PMC7734466 DOI: 10.1038/s41434-020-00209-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2020] [Revised: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
The novel coronavirus pneumonia (COVID-19) is a highly infectious acute respiratory disease caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome-Related Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) (Prec Clin Med 2020;3:9-13, Lancet 2020;395:497-506, N. Engl J Med 2020a;382:1199-207, Nature 2020;579:270-3). SARS-CoV-2 surveillance is essential to controlling widespread transmission. However, there are several challenges associated with the diagnostic of the COVID-19 during the current outbreak (Liu and Li (2019), Nature 2020;579:265-9, N. Engl J Med 2020;382:727-33). Firstly, the high number of cases overwhelms diagnostic test capacity and proposes the need for a rapid solution for sample processing (Science 2018;360:444-8). Secondly, SARS-CoV-2 is closely related to other important coronavirus species and subspecies, so detection assays can give false-positive results if they are not efficiently specific to SARS-CoV-2. Thirdly, patients with suspected SARS-CoV-2 infection sometimes have a different respiratory viral infection or co-infections with SARS-CoV-2 and other respiratory viruses (MedRxiv 2020a;1-18). Confirmation of the COVID-19 is performed mainly by virus isolation followed by RT-PCR and sequencing (N. Engl J Med 2020;382:727-33, MedRxiv 2020a, Turkish J Biol 2020;44:192-202). The emergence and outbreak of the novel coronavirus highlighted the urgent need for new therapeutic technologies that are fast, precise, stable, easy to manufacture, and target-specific for surveillance and treatment. Molecular biology tools that include gene-editing approaches such as CRISPR-Cas12/13-based SHERLOCK, DETECTR, CARVER and PAC-MAN, antisense oligonucleotides, antisense peptide nucleic acids, ribozymes, aptamers, and RNAi silencing approaches produced with cutting-edge scientific advances compared to conventional diagnostic or treatment methods could be vital in COVID-19 and other future outbreaks. Thus, in this review, we will discuss potent the molecular biology approaches that can revolutionize diagnostic of viral infections and therapies to fight COVID-19 in a highly specific, stable, and efficient way.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Burak Berber
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Eskisehir Technical University, Eskisehir, Turkey
| | - Cihan Aydin
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Istanbul Medeniyet University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Fatih Kocabas
- Department of Genetics and Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering, Yeditepe University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Gulen Guney-Esken
- Department of Genetics and Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering, Yeditepe University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Kaan Yilancioglu
- Institute of Addiction and Forensic Sciences, Uskudar University, Istanbul, Turkey
- Transgenic Cell Technologies and Epigenetics Application and Research Center (TRGENMER), Uskudar University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Medine Karadag-Alpaslan
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Caliseki
- Department of Molecular Biology, Genetics and Bioengineering, Graduate School of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Sabanci University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Melek Yuce
- Center for Stem Cell Research, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Sevda Demir
- Department of Genetics and Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering, Yeditepe University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Cihan Tastan
- Transgenic Cell Technologies and Epigenetics Application and Research Center (TRGENMER), Uskudar University, Istanbul, Turkey.
- Acibadem Labcell Cellular Therapy Laboratory, Istanbul, Turkey.
- Faculty of Science and Letters, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Istanbul Kultur University, Istanbul, Turkey.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Perrone D, Marchesi E, Preti L, Navacchia ML. Modified Nucleosides, Nucleotides and Nucleic Acids via Click Azide-Alkyne Cycloaddition for Pharmacological Applications. Molecules 2021; 26:3100. [PMID: 34067312 PMCID: PMC8196910 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26113100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Revised: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The click azide = alkyne 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition (click chemistry) has become the approach of choice for bioconjugations in medicinal chemistry, providing facile reaction conditions amenable to both small and biological molecules. Many nucleoside analogs are known for their marked impact in cancer therapy and for the treatment of virus diseases and new targeted oligonucleotides have been developed for different purposes. The click chemistry allowing the tolerated union between units with a wide diversity of functional groups represents a robust means of designing new hybrid compounds with an extraordinary diversity of applications. This review provides an overview of the most recent works related to the use of click chemistry methodology in the field of nucleosides, nucleotides and nucleic acids for pharmacological applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Perrone
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (E.M.); (L.P.)
| | - Elena Marchesi
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (E.M.); (L.P.)
| | - Lorenzo Preti
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (E.M.); (L.P.)
| | - Maria Luisa Navacchia
- Institute of Organic Synthesis and Photoreactivity National Research Council, 40129 Bologna, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Ren H, Zhang Z, Zhang W, Feng X, Xu L. Prodrug-type antisense oligonucleotides with enhanced nuclease stability and anti-tumour effects. Eur J Pharm Sci 2021; 162:105832. [PMID: 33826934 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2021.105832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The potential therapeutic and diagnostic applications of oligonucleotides have attracted great attention. However, natural antisense oligonucleotides (ASONs) are susceptible to degradation by intracellular and extracellular nucleases. In this study, we developed a new class of prodrug-type ASONs, which typically bear the hairpin-end conformation with a responsive disulphide switch. The hairpin-end conformation provides protection against nuclease degradation, and, upon stimulation, the molecule converts into the native antisense structure upon entering a tumour microenvironment due to the high concentration of glutathione. The structure-stability relationship analysis indicated that the location, size and composition of the hairpin structure affect the anti-degradation capability. One optimal prodrug-type ASON, O2, exhibited a higher stability against nucleases in serum-containing medium as well as an increased anti-tumour activity both in vitro and in vivo, compared to the linear control. This work presents a new strategy for the design of ASON drugs with novel structures and offers insight on the stability and biological efficacy of general nucleic acid-based therapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hongqian Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, 27 Taiping Road, Beijing 100850, China
| | - Zhe Zhang
- China Medical University, School of Pharmacy, Shenyang 110122, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, 27 Taiping Road, Beijing 100850, China
| | - Xuesong Feng
- China Medical University, School of Pharmacy, Shenyang 110122, China.
| | - Liang Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, 27 Taiping Road, Beijing 100850, China.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Boroumand H, Badie F, Mazaheri S, Seyedi ZS, Nahand JS, Nejati M, Baghi HB, Abbasi-Kolli M, Badehnoosh B, Ghandali M, Hamblin MR, Mirzaei H. Chitosan-Based Nanoparticles Against Viral Infections. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:643953. [PMID: 33816349 PMCID: PMC8011499 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.643953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Viral infections, in addition to damaging host cells, can compromise the host immune system, leading to frequent relapse or long-term persistence. Viruses have the capacity to destroy the host cell while liberating their own RNA or DNA in order to replicate within additional host cells. The viral life cycle makes it challenging to develop anti-viral drugs. Nanotechnology-based approaches have been suggested to deal effectively with viral diseases, and overcome some limitations of anti-viral drugs. Nanotechnology has enabled scientists to overcome the challenges of solubility and toxicity of anti-viral drugs, and can enhance their selectivity towards viruses and virally infected cells, while preserving healthy host cells. Chitosan is a naturally occurring polymer that has been used to construct nanoparticles (NPs), which are biocompatible, biodegradable, less toxic, easy to prepare, and can function as effective drug delivery systems (DDSs). Furthermore, chitosan is Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) by the US Food and Drug Administration (U.S. FDA). Chitosan NPs have been used in drug delivery by the oral, ocular, pulmonary, nasal, mucosal, buccal, or vaginal routes. They have also been studied for gene delivery, vaccine delivery, and advanced cancer therapy. Multiple lines of evidence suggest that chitosan NPs could be used as new therapeutic tools against viral infections. In this review we summarize reports concerning the therapeutic potential of chitosan NPs against various viral infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Homa Boroumand
- School of Medicine, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Fereshteh Badie
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Samaneh Mazaheri
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Kashan, Kashan, Iran
| | - Zeynab Sadat Seyedi
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Kashan, Kashan, Iran
| | - Javid Sadri Nahand
- Department of Virology, Faculty of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Majid Nejati
- Anatomical Sciences Research Center, Institute for Basic Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Hossein Bannazadeh Baghi
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Abbasi-Kolli
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Bita Badehnoosh
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Dietary Supplements and Probiotic Research Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Maryam Ghandali
- School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Michael R. Hamblin
- Laser Research Centre, Faculty of Health Science, University of Johannesburg, Doornfontein, South Africa
| | - Hamed Mirzaei
- Research Center for Biochemistry and Nutrition in Metabolic Diseases, Institute for Basic Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Tarach P, Janaszewska A. Recent Advances in Preclinical Research Using PAMAM Dendrimers for Cancer Gene Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:2912. [PMID: 33805602 PMCID: PMC7999260 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22062912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Revised: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Carriers of genetic material are divided into vectors of viral and non-viral origin. Viral carriers are already successfully used in experimental gene therapies, but despite advantages such as their high transfection efficiency and the wide knowledge of their practical potential, the remaining disadvantages, namely, their low capacity and complex manufacturing process, based on biological systems, are major limitations prior to their broad implementation in the clinical setting. The application of non-viral carriers in gene therapy is one of the available approaches. Poly(amidoamine) (PAMAM) dendrimers are repetitively branched, three-dimensional molecules, made of amide and amine subunits, possessing unique physiochemical properties. Surface and internal modifications improve their physicochemical properties, enabling the increase in cellular specificity and transfection efficiency and a reduction in cytotoxicity toward healthy cells. During the last 10 years of research on PAMAM dendrimers, three modification strategies have commonly been used: (1) surface modification with functional groups; (2) hybrid vector formation; (3) creation of supramolecular self-assemblies. This review describes and summarizes recent studies exploring the development of PAMAM dendrimers in anticancer gene therapies, evaluating the advantages and disadvantages of the modification approaches and the nanomedicine regulatory issues preventing their translation into the clinical setting, and highlighting important areas for further development and possible steps that seem promising in terms of development of PAMAM as a carrier of genetic material.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Biocompatible Materials/administration & dosage
- Biocompatible Materials/chemical synthesis
- Dendrimers/administration & dosage
- Dendrimers/chemical synthesis
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic
- Gene Transfer Techniques
- Genetic Therapy/methods
- Government Regulation
- Humans
- MicroRNAs/administration & dosage
- MicroRNAs/genetics
- MicroRNAs/metabolism
- Nanomedicine/legislation & jurisprudence
- Nanomedicine/methods
- Nanoparticles/administration & dosage
- Nanoparticles/chemistry
- Neoplasm Proteins/antagonists & inhibitors
- Neoplasm Proteins/genetics
- Neoplasm Proteins/metabolism
- Neoplasms/genetics
- Neoplasms/metabolism
- Neoplasms/pathology
- Neoplasms/therapy
- Oligonucleotides, Antisense/administration & dosage
- Oligonucleotides, Antisense/genetics
- Oligonucleotides, Antisense/metabolism
- Plasmids/administration & dosage
- Plasmids/chemistry
- Plasmids/metabolism
- RNA, Messenger/administration & dosage
- RNA, Messenger/genetics
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- RNA, Small Interfering/administration & dosage
- RNA, Small Interfering/genetics
- RNA, Small Interfering/metabolism
- Surface Properties
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Piotr Tarach
- Department of General Biophysics, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, Pomorska 141/143, 90-236 Lodz, Poland;
| | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Clavé G, Reverte M, Vasseur JJ, Smietana M. Modified internucleoside linkages for nuclease-resistant oligonucleotides. RSC Chem Biol 2021; 2:94-150. [PMID: 34458777 PMCID: PMC8341215 DOI: 10.1039/d0cb00136h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 10/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
In the past few years, several drugs derived from nucleic acids have been approved for commercialization and many more are in clinical trials. The sensitivity of these molecules to nuclease digestion in vivo implies the need to exploit resistant non-natural nucleotides. Among all the possible modifications, the one concerning the internucleoside linkage is of particular interest. Indeed minor changes to the natural phosphodiester may result in major modifications of the physico-chemical properties of nucleic acids. As this linkage is a key element of nucleic acids' chemical structures, its alteration can strongly modulate the plasma stability, binding properties, solubility, cell penetration and ultimately biological activity of nucleic acids. Over the past few decades, many research groups have provided knowledge about non-natural internucleoside linkage properties and participated in building biologically active nucleic acid derivatives. The recent renewing interest in nucleic acids as drugs, demonstrated by the emergence of new antisense, siRNA, aptamer and cyclic dinucleotide molecules, justifies the review of all these studies in order to provide new perspectives in this field. Thus, in this review we aim at providing the reader insights into modified internucleoside linkages that have been described over the years whose impact on annealing properties and resistance to nucleases have been evaluated in order to assess their potential for biological applications. The syntheses of modified nucleotides as well as the protocols developed for their incorporation within oligonucleotides are described. Given the intended biological applications, the modifications described in the literature that have not been tested for their resistance to nucleases are not reported.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Maeva Reverte
- IBMM, Univ. Montpellier, CNRS, ENSCM Montpellier France
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Elcheva IA, Spiegelman VS. The Role of cis- and trans-Acting RNA Regulatory Elements in Leukemia. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:E3854. [PMID: 33419342 PMCID: PMC7766907 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12123854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Revised: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
RNA molecules are a source of phenotypic diversity and an operating system that connects multiple genetic and metabolic processes in the cell. A dysregulated RNA network is a common feature of cancer. Aberrant expression of long non-coding RNA (lncRNA), micro RNA (miRNA), and circular RNA (circRNA) in tumors compared to their normal counterparts, as well as the recurrent mutations in functional regulatory cis-acting RNA motifs have emerged as biomarkers of disease development and progression, opening avenues for the design of novel therapeutic approaches. This review looks at the progress, challenges and future prospects of targeting cis-acting and trans-acting RNA elements for leukemia diagnosis and treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Irina A. Elcheva
- Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, P.O. Box 850, MC H085, 500 University Drive, Hershey, PA 17033-0850, USA
| | - Vladimir S. Spiegelman
- Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, P.O. Box 850, MC H085, 500 University Drive, Hershey, PA 17033-0850, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Malavia N, Kuche K, Ghadi R, Jain S. A bird's eye view of the advanced approaches and strategies for overshadowing triple negative breast cancer. J Control Release 2020; 330:72-100. [PMID: 33321156 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2020.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Revised: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is one of the most aggressive form of breast cancer. It is characterized by the absence of estrogen, progesterone and human epidermal growth factor receptors. The main issue with TNBC is that it exhibits poor prognosis, high risk of relapse, short progression-free survival and low overall survival in patients. This is because the conventional therapy used for managing TNBC has issues pertaining to poor bioavailability, lower cellular uptake, increased off-target effects and development of resistance. To overcome such pitfalls, several other approaches are explored. In this context, the present manuscript showcases three of the most widely used approaches which are (i) nanotechnology-based approach; (ii) gene therapy approach and (iii) Phytochemical-based approach. The ultimate focus is to present and explain the insightful reports based on these approaches. Further, the review also expounds on the identified molecular targets and novel targeting ligands which are explored for managing TNBC effectively. Thus, in a nutshell, the review tries to highlight these existing treatment approaches which might inspire for future development of novel therapies with a potential of overshadowing TNBC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nilesh Malavia
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, S.A.S Nagar, Mohali, Punjab, India
| | - Kaushik Kuche
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, S.A.S Nagar, Mohali, Punjab, India
| | - Rohan Ghadi
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, S.A.S Nagar, Mohali, Punjab, India
| | - Sanyog Jain
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, S.A.S Nagar, Mohali, Punjab, India.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Zygmuntowicz A, Burmańczuk A, Markiewicz W. Selected Biological Medicinal Products and Their Veterinary Use. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10122343. [PMID: 33316993 PMCID: PMC7763151 DOI: 10.3390/ani10122343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2020] [Revised: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Biological drugs are a generation of drugs that have developed thanks to advances in genetic engineering and molecular biology. Biological drugs are proteins derived from living cells or obtained through the use of genetic engineering methods with a selective and specific mechanism of action. Currently, these drugs are widely used in the treatment of many human diseases, but an increasing number of drugs from this group are also being used in the treatment of animals, mainly in dermatology, rheumatology and oncology. Abstract Definitions of biological medicinal products (BMPs) vary depending on the source. BMPs are manufactured using complex biological/biotechnological processes involving living cell lines, tissues and organisms such as microorganisms, plants, humans and even animals. Advances in modern biotechnological methods and genetic engineering have made it possible to search for new drugs with a targeted effect and simultaneous reduction of adverse effects, which has resulted in BMPs dynamically increasing their share in the pharmaceutical market. Currently, these drugs are widely used in the treatment of many human diseases, but an increasing number of drugs of this group are also being used in the treatment of animals, mainly in dermatology, rheumatology and oncology. This article presents the current state of knowledge in the field of biological medicinal products used in animal therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Zygmuntowicz
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego 13, 10-718 Olsztyn, Poland;
| | - Artur Burmańczuk
- Sub-Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Environmental Protection, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, 12 Akademicka St., 20-950 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Włodzimierz Markiewicz
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego 13, 10-718 Olsztyn, Poland;
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Enhanced Antisense Oligonucleotide Delivery Using Cationic Liposomes Grafted with Trastuzumab: A Proof-of-Concept Study in Prostate Cancer. Pharmaceutics 2020; 12:pharmaceutics12121166. [PMID: 33260460 PMCID: PMC7761013 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics12121166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2020] [Revised: 11/26/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PCa) is the second most common cancer in men worldwide and the fifth leading cause of death by cancer. The overexpression of TCTP protein plays an important role in castration resistance. Over the last decade, antisense technology has emerged as a rising strategy in oncology. Using antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) to silence TCTP protein is a promising therapeutic option—however, the pharmacokinetics of ASO does not always meet the requirements of proper delivery to the tumor site. In this context, developing drug delivery systems is an attractive strategy for improving the efficacy of ASO directed against TCTP. The liposome should protect and deliver ASO at the intracellular level in order to be effective. In addition, because prostate cancer cells express Her2, using an anti-Her2 targeting antibody will increase the affinity of the liposome for the cell and optimize the intratumoral penetration of the ASO, thus improving efficacy. Here, we have designed and developed pegylated liposomes and Her2-targeting immunoliposomes. Mean diameter was below 200 nm, thus ensuring proper enhanced permeation and retention (EPR) effect. Encapsulation rate for ASO was about 40%. Using human PC-3 prostate cancer cells as a canonical model, free ASO and ASO encapsulated into either liposomes or anti-Her2 immunoliposomes were tested for efficacy in vitro using 2D and 3D spheroid models. While the encapsulated forms of ASO were always more effective than free ASO, we observed differences in efficacy of encapsulated ASO. For short exposure times (i.e., 4 h) ASO liposomes (ASO-Li) were more effective than ASO-immunoliposomes (ASO-iLi). Conversely, for longer exposure times, ASO-iLi performed better than ASO-Li. This pilot study demonstrates that it is possible to encapsulate ASO into liposomes and to yield antiproliferative efficacy against PCa. Importantly, despite mild Her2 expression in this PC-3 model, using a surface mAb as targeting agent provides further efficacy, especially when exposure is longer. Overall, the development of third-generation ASO-iLi should help to take advantage of the expression of Her2 by prostate cancer cells in order to allow greater specificity of action in vivo and thus a gain in efficacy.
Collapse
|
18
|
Mashel TV, Tarakanchikova YV, Muslimov AR, Zyuzin MV, Timin AS, Lepik KV, Fehse B. Overcoming the delivery problem for therapeutic genome editing: Current status and perspective of non-viral methods. Biomaterials 2020; 258:120282. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2020.120282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Revised: 07/22/2020] [Accepted: 08/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
|
19
|
Hosen MR, Goody PR, Zietzer A, Nickenig G, Jansen F. MicroRNAs As Master Regulators of Atherosclerosis: From Pathogenesis to Novel Therapeutic Options. Antioxid Redox Signal 2020; 33:621-644. [PMID: 32408755 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2020.8107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Significance: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Accumulating evidence indicates that atherosclerosis and its sequelae, coronary artery disease, contribute to the majority of cardiovascular deaths. Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the arteries in which atherosclerotic plaques form within the vessel wall. Epidemiological studies have identified various risk factors for atherosclerosis, such as diabetes, hyperlipidemia, smoking, genetic predisposition, and sedentary lifestyle. Recent Advances: Through the advancement of genetic manipulation techniques and their use in cardiovascular biology, it was shown that small RNAs, especially microRNAs (miRNAs), are dynamic regulators of disease pathogenesis. They are considered to be central during the regulation of gene expression through numerous mechanisms and provide a means to develop biomarkers and therapeutic tools for the diagnosis and therapy of atherosclerosis. Circulating miRNAs encapsulated within membrane-surrounded vesicles, which originate from diverse subcellular compartments, are now emerging as novel regulators of intercellular communication. The miRNAs, in both freely circulating and vesicle-bound forms, represent a valuable tool for diagnosing and monitoring CVD, recently termed as "liquid biopsy." Critical Issues: However, despite the recent advancements in miRNA-based diagnostics and therapeutics, understanding how miRNAs can regulate atherosclerosis is still crucial to achieving an effective intervention and reducing the disease burden. Future Directions: We provide a landscape of the current developmental progression of RNA therapeutics as a holistic approach for treating CVD in different animal models and clinical trials. Future interrogations are warranted for the development of miRNA-based therapeutics to overcome challenges for the treatment of the disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Rabiul Hosen
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Molecular Cardiology, Heart Center Bonn, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms University Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Philip Roger Goody
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Molecular Cardiology, Heart Center Bonn, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms University Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Andreas Zietzer
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Molecular Cardiology, Heart Center Bonn, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms University Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Georg Nickenig
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Molecular Cardiology, Heart Center Bonn, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms University Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Felix Jansen
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Molecular Cardiology, Heart Center Bonn, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms University Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Antisense drug discovery and development technology considered in a pharmacological context. Biochem Pharmacol 2020; 189:114196. [PMID: 32800852 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2020.114196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Revised: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
When coined, the term "antisense" included oligonucleotides of any structure, with any chemical modification and designed to work through any post-RNA hybridization mechanism. However, in practice the term "antisense" has been used to describe single stranded oligonucleotides (ss ASOs) designed to hybridize to RNAswhile the term "siRNA" has come to mean double stranded oligonucleotides designed to activate Ago2. However, the two approaches share many common features. The medicinal chemistry developed for ASOs greatly facilitated the development of siRNA technology and remains the chemical basis for both approaches. Many of challenges faced and solutions achieved share many common features. In fact, because ss ASOs can be designed to activate Ago2, the two approaches intersect at this remarkably important protein. There are also meaningful differences. The pharmacokinetic properties are quite different and thus potential routes of delivery differ. ASOs may be designedto use a variety of post-RNA binding mechanismswhile siRNAs depend solely on the robust activity of Ago2. However, siRNAs and ASOs are both used for therapeutic purposes and both must be and can be understood in a pharmacological context. Thus, the goals of this review are to put ASOs in pharmacological context and compare their behavior as pharmacological agents to the those of siRNAs.
Collapse
|
21
|
Lim KRQ, Maruyama R, Echigoya Y, Nguyen Q, Zhang A, Khawaja H, Sen Chandra S, Jones T, Jones P, Chen YW, Yokota T. Inhibition of DUX4 expression with antisense LNA gapmers as a therapy for facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2020; 117:16509-16515. [PMID: 32601200 PMCID: PMC7368245 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1909649117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD), characterized by progressive muscle weakness and deterioration, is genetically linked to aberrant expression of DUX4 in muscle. DUX4, in its full-length form, is cytotoxic in nongermline tissues. Here, we designed locked nucleic acid (LNA) gapmer antisense oligonucleotides (AOs) to knock down DUX4 in immortalized FSHD myoblasts and the FLExDUX4 FSHD mouse model. Using a screening method capable of reliably evaluating the knockdown efficiency of LNA gapmers against endogenous DUX4 messenger RNA in vitro, we demonstrate that several designed LNA gapmers selectively and effectively reduced DUX4 expression with nearly complete knockdown. We also found potential functional benefits of AOs on muscle fusion and structure in vitro. Finally, we show that one of the LNA gapmers was taken up and induced effective silencing of DUX4 upon local treatment in vivo. The LNA gapmers developed here will help facilitate the development of FSHD therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kenji Rowel Q Lim
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G2H7, Canada
| | - Rika Maruyama
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G2H7, Canada
| | - Yusuke Echigoya
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G2H7, Canada
- Laboratory of Biomedical Science, Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Bioresource Sciences, Nihon University, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, 252-0880, Japan
| | - Quynh Nguyen
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G2H7, Canada
| | - Aiping Zhang
- Center for Genetic Medicine Research, Children's National Health System, Washington, DC 20010
- Department of Integrative Systems Biology, George Washington University, Washington, DC 20052
| | - Hunain Khawaja
- Center for Genetic Medicine Research, Children's National Health System, Washington, DC 20010
- Department of Integrative Systems Biology, George Washington University, Washington, DC 20052
| | - Sreetama Sen Chandra
- Center for Genetic Medicine Research, Children's National Health System, Washington, DC 20010
- Department of Integrative Systems Biology, George Washington University, Washington, DC 20052
| | - Takako Jones
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Nevada Reno School of Medicine, Reno, NV 89557-0318
| | - Peter Jones
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Nevada Reno School of Medicine, Reno, NV 89557-0318
| | - Yi-Wen Chen
- Center for Genetic Medicine Research, Children's National Health System, Washington, DC 20010;
- Department of Genomics and Precision Medicine, School of Medicine and Health Science, George Washington University, Washington, DC 20052
| | - Toshifumi Yokota
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G2H7, Canada;
- The Friends of Garrett Cumming Research & Muscular Dystrophy Canada HM Toupin Neurological Science Research Chair, Edmonton, AB T6G2H7, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Small Interfering RNAs and RNA Therapeutics in Cardiovascular Diseases. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2020; 1229:369-381. [PMID: 32285425 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-15-1671-9_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Ribonucleic acid (RNA) is being exploited and understood in its many aspects of function and structure for development of valuable tools in the therapeutics of various diseases such as cardiovascular etc. The expanded knowledge regarding function of RNA in the genomics and inside the cell has dramatically changed the therapeutic strategies in the past few years. RNA has become a spotlight of attention for developing novel therapeutic schemes and hence variety of therapeutic strategies is being coming into the picture that includes RNA interference, use of aptamers, role of microRNA (miRNA) that can alter the complex gene expression patterns. It is due to the fact that RNA offers various advantages in disease management as it can be edited and modified in its various forms such as secondary and tertiary structures. Although scientists are in process of manufacturing RNA-targeting therapies using variety of endogenous gene silencing regulators, Small interfering RNAs (Si RNAs), aptamers and microRNA for cardiovascular diseases yet the development of a novel, risk free therapeutic strategy is a major challenge and need of the hour in cardiovascular medicine. In this regard these agents are required to overcome pleothra of barriers such as stability of drug targets, immunogenicity, adequate binding, targeted delivery etc. to become effective drugs. Recent years have witnessed the progress of RNA therapeutic strategies in cardiovascular diseases that are likely to significantly expand the cardiovascular therapeutic repertoire within the next decade. The present manuscript has been compiled to summarize various approaches of siRNA based therapies in cardiovascular diseases along with the advantages, outcomes and limitations if any in this regard. In addition, the future prospects of RNA therapeutic modalities in cardiovascular diseases are summarized.
Collapse
|
23
|
Wang Y, Bao Y, Zhang S, Wang Z. Splicing dysregulation in cancer: from mechanistic understanding to a new class of therapeutic targets. SCIENCE CHINA-LIFE SCIENCES 2020; 63:469-484. [PMID: 32086672 DOI: 10.1007/s11427-019-1605-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2019] [Accepted: 12/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
RNA splicing dysregulation is widespread in cancer. Accumulating evidence demonstrates that splicing defects resulting from splicing dysregulation play critical roles in cancer pathogenesis and can serve as new biomarkers and therapeutic targets for cancer intervention. These findings have greatly deepened the mechanistic understandings of the regulation of alternative splicing in cancer cells, leading to rapidly growing interests in targeting cancer-related splicing defects as new therapies. Here we summarize the current research progress on splicing dysregulation in cancer and highlight the strategies available or under development for targeting RNA splicing defects in cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yongbo Wang
- Department of Cellular and Genetic Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Yufang Bao
- Department of Cellular and Genetic Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Sirui Zhang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Computational Biology, CAS-MPG Partner Institute for Computational Biology, Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Zefeng Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Computational Biology, CAS-MPG Partner Institute for Computational Biology, Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Searching for the ideal triazole: Investigating the 1,5-triazole as a charge neutral DNA backbone mimic. Tetrahedron 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tet.2019.130914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
|
25
|
Abstract
Gapmers are antisense oligonucleotides composed of a central DNA segment flanked by nucleotides of modified chemistry. Hybridizing with transcripts by sequence complementarity, gapmers recruit ribonuclease H and induce target RNA degradation. Since its concept first emerged in the 1980s, much work has gone into developing gapmers for use in basic research and therapy. These include improvements in gapmer chemistry, delivery, and therapeutic safety. Gapmers have also successfully entered clinical trials for various genetic disorders, with two already approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of familial hypercholesterolemia and transthyretin amyloidosis-associated polyneuropathy. Here, we review the events surrounding the early development of gapmers, from conception to their maturity, and briefly conclude with perspectives on their use in therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kenji Rowel Q Lim
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Toshifumi Yokota
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada.
- The Friends of Garrett Cumming Research and Muscular Dystrophy Canada HM Toupin Neurological Science Research Chair, Edmonton, AB, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Yoshida S, Duong C, Oestergaard M, Fazio M, Chen C, Peralta R, Guo S, Seth PP, Li Y, Beckett L, Nitin N, Satake N. MXD3 antisense oligonucleotide with superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles: A new targeted approach for neuroblastoma. NANOMEDICINE-NANOTECHNOLOGY BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2019; 24:102127. [PMID: 31783139 DOI: 10.1016/j.nano.2019.102127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2019] [Revised: 10/29/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Neuroblastoma (NB) is the most common extracranial solid tumor in children. The outcomes for aggressive forms of NB remain poor. The aim of this study was to develop a new molecular-targeted therapy for NB using an antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) and superparamagnetic iron oxide (SPIO) nanoparticles (NPs), as a delivery vehicle, targeting the transcription regulator MAX dimerization protein 3 (MXD3). We previously discovered that MXD3 was highly expressed in high-risk NB, acting as an anti-apoptotic factor; therefore, it can be a good therapeutic target. In this study, we developed two ASO-NP complexes using electrostatic conjugation to polyethylenimine-coated SPIO NPs and chemical conjugation to amphiphilic polymers on amine-functionalized SPIO NPs. Both ASO-NP complexes demonstrated MXD3 knockdown, which resulted in apoptosis in NB cells. ASO chemically-conjugated NP complexes have the potential to be used in the clinic as they showed great efficacy with minimum NP-associated cytotoxicity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sakiko Yoshida
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Niigata University, Japan
| | - Connie Duong
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Cathy Chen
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | | | | | | | - Yueju Li
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Laurel Beckett
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Nitin Nitin
- Departments of Food Science & Technology and Biological & Agricultural Engineering, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Noriko Satake
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Papachristodoulou A, Silginer M, Weller M, Schneider H, Hasenbach K, Janicot M, Roth P. Therapeutic Targeting of TGFβ Ligands in Glioblastoma Using Novel Antisense Oligonucleotides Reduces the Growth of Experimental Gliomas. Clin Cancer Res 2019; 25:7189-7201. [PMID: 31530630 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-17-3024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2017] [Revised: 07/26/2019] [Accepted: 09/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Transforming growth factor (TGF)-β is expressed at high levels by glioma cells and contributes to the malignant phenotype of glioblastoma. However, its therapeutic targeting remains challenging. Here, we examined an alternative therapeutic approach of TGFβ inhibition using two novel phosphorothioate-locked nucleic acid (LNA)-modified antisense oligonucleotide gapmers, ISTH1047 and ISTH0047, which specifically target TGFβ1 and TGFβ2. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN We characterized the effects of ISTH1047 and ISTH0047 on TGFβ1/2 expression, downstream signaling and growth of human LN-308, LN-229, and ZH-161 cells as well as murine SMA-560 glioma cells in vitro. Furthermore, we assessed their target inhibition and effects on survival in orthotopic xenogeneic and syngeneic rodent glioma models in vivo. RESULTS Both antisense oligonucleotides specifically silenced their corresponding target and abrogated SMAD2 phosphorylation in several glioma cell lines. Moreover, inhibition of TGFβ1 or TGFβ2 expression by ISTH1047 or ISTH0047 reduced the migration and invasiveness of LN-308 and SMA-560 glioma cells. Systemic antisense oligonucleotide administration to glioma-bearing mice suppressed TGFβ1 or TGFβ2 mRNA expression as well as the expression of the downstream target PAI-1 in orthotopic gliomas. Glioma-bearing mice had significantly prolonged survival upon systemic treatment with ISTH1047 or ISTH0047, which was associated with a reduction of intratumoral SMAD2 phosphorylation and, in a fully immunocompetent model, with increased immune cell infiltration. CONCLUSIONS Targeting TGFβ expression with the novel LNA antisense oligonucleotides ISTH1047 or ISTH0047 results in strong antiglioma activity in vitro and in vivo, which may represent a promising approach to be examined in human patients with glioma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandros Papachristodoulou
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuro-Oncology, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Zurich and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Manuela Silginer
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuro-Oncology, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Zurich and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Michael Weller
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuro-Oncology, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Zurich and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Hannah Schneider
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuro-Oncology, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Zurich and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Patrick Roth
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuro-Oncology, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Zurich and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Yamakawa K, Nakano-Narusawa Y, Hashimoto N, Yokohira M, Matsuda Y. Development and Clinical Trials of Nucleic Acid Medicines for Pancreatic Cancer Treatment. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20174224. [PMID: 31470511 PMCID: PMC6747711 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20174224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Revised: 08/24/2019] [Accepted: 08/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Approximately 30% of pancreatic cancer patients harbor targetable mutations. However, there has been no therapy targeting these molecules clinically. Nucleic acid medicines show high specificity and can target RNAs. Nucleic acid medicine is expected to be the next-generation treatment next to small molecules and antibodies. There are several kinds of nucleic acid drugs, including antisense oligonucleotides, small interfering RNAs, microRNAs, aptamers, decoys, and CpG oligodeoxynucleotides. In this review, we provide an update on current research of nucleic acid-based therapies. Despite the challenging obstacles, we hope that nucleic acid drugs will have a significant impact on the treatment of pancreatic cancer. The combination of genetic diagnosis using next generation sequencing and targeted therapy may provide effective precision medicine for pancreatic cancer patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Keiko Yamakawa
- Oncology Pathology, Department of Pathology and Host-Defense, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, 1750-1 Ikenobe, Miki-cho, Kita-gun, Kagawa 761-0793, Japan
| | - Yuko Nakano-Narusawa
- Oncology Pathology, Department of Pathology and Host-Defense, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, 1750-1 Ikenobe, Miki-cho, Kita-gun, Kagawa 761-0793, Japan
| | - Nozomi Hashimoto
- Oncology Pathology, Department of Pathology and Host-Defense, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, 1750-1 Ikenobe, Miki-cho, Kita-gun, Kagawa 761-0793, Japan
| | - Masanao Yokohira
- Oncology Pathology, Department of Pathology and Host-Defense, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, 1750-1 Ikenobe, Miki-cho, Kita-gun, Kagawa 761-0793, Japan
| | - Yoko Matsuda
- Oncology Pathology, Department of Pathology and Host-Defense, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, 1750-1 Ikenobe, Miki-cho, Kita-gun, Kagawa 761-0793, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Saliani M, Jalal R, Ahmadian MR. From basic researches to new achievements in therapeutic strategies of KRAS-driven cancers. Cancer Biol Med 2019; 16:435-461. [PMID: 31565476 PMCID: PMC6743616 DOI: 10.20892/j.issn.2095-3941.2018.0530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2019] [Accepted: 06/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Among the numerous oncogenes involved in human cancers, KRAS represents the most studied and best characterized cancer-related genes. Several therapeutic strategies targeting oncogenic KRAS (KRAS onc ) signaling pathways have been suggested, including the inhibition of synthetic lethal interactions, direct inhibition of KRAS onc itself, blockade of downstream KRAS onc effectors, prevention of post-translational KRAS onc modifications, inhibition of the induced stem cell-like program, targeting of metabolic peculiarities, stimulation of the immune system, inhibition of inflammation, blockade of upstream signaling pathways, targeted RNA replacement, and oncogene-induced senescence. Despite intensive and continuous efforts, KRAS onc remains an elusive target for cancer therapy. To highlight the progress to date, this review covers a collection of studies on therapeutic strategies for KRAS published from 1995 to date. An overview of the path of progress from earlier to more recent insights highlight novel opportunities for clinical development towards KRASonc-signaling targeted therapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mahsa Saliani
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad 9177948974, Iran
| | - Razieh Jalal
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad 9177948974, Iran
- Department of Research Cell and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biotechnology, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad 9177948974, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Ahmadian
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine University, Düsseldorf 40225, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Oligonucleotide therapy: An emerging focus area for drug delivery in chronic inflammatory respiratory diseases. Chem Biol Interact 2019; 308:206-215. [PMID: 31136735 PMCID: PMC7094617 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2019.05.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2019] [Revised: 04/30/2019] [Accepted: 05/15/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Oligonucleotide-based therapies are advanced novel interventions used in the management of various respiratory diseases such as asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). These agents primarily act by gene silencing or RNA interference. Better methodologies and techniques are the need of the hour that can deliver these agents to tissues and cells in a target specific manner by which their maximum potential can be reached in the management of chronic inflammatory diseases. Nanoparticles play an important role in the target-specific delivery of drugs. In addition, oligonucleotides also are extensively used for gene transfer in the form of polymeric, liposomal and inorganic carrier materials. Therefore, the current review focuses on various novel dosage forms like nanoparticles, liposomes that can be used efficiently for the delivery of various oligonucleotides such as siRNA and miRNA. We also discuss the future perspectives and targets for oligonucleotides in the management of respiratory diseases.
Collapse
|
31
|
Laikova KV, Oberemok VV, Krasnodubets AM, Gal'chinsky NV, Useinov RZ, Novikov IA, Temirova ZZ, Gorlov MV, Shved NA, Kumeiko VV, Makalish TP, Bessalova EY, Fomochkina II, Esin AS, Volkov ME, Kubyshkin AV. Advances in the Understanding of Skin Cancer: Ultraviolet Radiation, Mutations, and Antisense Oligonucleotides as Anticancer Drugs. Molecules 2019; 24:E1516. [PMID: 30999681 PMCID: PMC6514765 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24081516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2019] [Revised: 04/13/2019] [Accepted: 04/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Skin cancer has always been and remains the leader among all tumors in terms of occurrence. One of the main factors responsible for skin cancer, natural and artificial UV radiation, causes the mutations that transform healthy cells into cancer cells. These mutations inactivate apoptosis, an event required to avoid the malignant transformation of healthy cells. Among these deadliest of cancers, melanoma and its 'younger sister', Merkel cell carcinoma, are the most lethal. The heavy toll of skin cancers stems from their rapid progression and the fact that they metastasize easily. Added to this is the difficulty in determining reliable margins when excising tumors and the lack of effective chemotherapy. Possibly the biggest problem posed by skin cancer is reliably detecting the extent to which cancer cells have spread throughout the body. The initial tumor is visible and can be removed, whereas metastases are invisible to the naked eye and much harder to eliminate. In our opinion, antisense oligonucleotides, which can be used in the form of targeted ointments, provide real hope as a treatment that will eliminate cancer cells near the tumor focus both before and after surgery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kateryna V Laikova
- Medical Academy named after S.I. Georgievsky, V.I. Vernadsky Crimean Federal University, Lenin Boulevard 5/7, 295051 Simferopol, Crimea.
- Research Institute of Agriculture of Crimea, Kiyevskaya St. 150, 295493, Simferopol, Crimea.
| | - Volodymyr V Oberemok
- Taurida Academy, V.I. Vernadsky Crimean Federal University, Vernadsky Av. 4, 295007 Simferopol, Crimea.
- Nikita Botanical Gardens ⁻ National Scientific Centre RAS, Nikitsky spusk 52, vil. Nikita, 298648 Yalta, Crimea.
| | - Alisa M Krasnodubets
- Taurida Academy, V.I. Vernadsky Crimean Federal University, Vernadsky Av. 4, 295007 Simferopol, Crimea.
| | - Nikita V Gal'chinsky
- Taurida Academy, V.I. Vernadsky Crimean Federal University, Vernadsky Av. 4, 295007 Simferopol, Crimea.
| | - Refat Z Useinov
- Taurida Academy, V.I. Vernadsky Crimean Federal University, Vernadsky Av. 4, 295007 Simferopol, Crimea.
| | - Ilya A Novikov
- Taurida Academy, V.I. Vernadsky Crimean Federal University, Vernadsky Av. 4, 295007 Simferopol, Crimea.
| | - Zenure Z Temirova
- Medical Academy named after S.I. Georgievsky, V.I. Vernadsky Crimean Federal University, Lenin Boulevard 5/7, 295051 Simferopol, Crimea.
| | - Mikhail V Gorlov
- D. Mendeleev University of Chemical Technology of Russia, Miusskaya sq. 9, 125047 Moscow, Russia.
| | - Nikita A Shved
- Centre for Genomic and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biomedicine, Far Eastern Federal University, Sukhanova St. 8, 690090 Vladivostok, Russia.
- National Scientific Center of Marine Biology, Far Eastern Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, Palchevsky St. 17, 690041 Vladivostok, Russia.
| | - Vadim V Kumeiko
- Centre for Genomic and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biomedicine, Far Eastern Federal University, Sukhanova St. 8, 690090 Vladivostok, Russia.
- National Scientific Center of Marine Biology, Far Eastern Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, Palchevsky St. 17, 690041 Vladivostok, Russia.
| | - Tatiana P Makalish
- Medical Academy named after S.I. Georgievsky, V.I. Vernadsky Crimean Federal University, Lenin Boulevard 5/7, 295051 Simferopol, Crimea.
| | - Evgeniya Y Bessalova
- Medical Academy named after S.I. Georgievsky, V.I. Vernadsky Crimean Federal University, Lenin Boulevard 5/7, 295051 Simferopol, Crimea.
| | - Iryna I Fomochkina
- Medical Academy named after S.I. Georgievsky, V.I. Vernadsky Crimean Federal University, Lenin Boulevard 5/7, 295051 Simferopol, Crimea.
| | - Andrey S Esin
- D. Mendeleev University of Chemical Technology of Russia, Miusskaya sq. 9, 125047 Moscow, Russia.
| | - Mikhail E Volkov
- Ltd "NPF Syntol", Тimiryazevskaya St. 42, 127434 Moscow, Russia.
| | - Anatoly V Kubyshkin
- Medical Academy named after S.I. Georgievsky, V.I. Vernadsky Crimean Federal University, Lenin Boulevard 5/7, 295051 Simferopol, Crimea.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Towards Nanomaterials for Cancer Theranostics: A System of DNA-Modified Magnetic Nanoparticles for Detection and Suppression of RNA Marker in Cancer Cells. MAGNETOCHEMISTRY 2019. [DOI: 10.3390/magnetochemistry5020024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Theranostics of cancer using smart biocompatible materials can enable early cancer diagnostics and treatment. Here, we report on a DNA-nanoparticle functional material, which can simultaneously report the presence of an mRNA cancer biomarker and trigger its degradation in cultured cells. The nanodevice consists of two species of magnetic beads, each of which is conjugated with different components of a multicomponent deoxyribozyme (DZ) sensor. The system is activated only under two conditions: (i) in the presence of a specific target mRNA and (ii) when a magnetic field is applied. We demonstrate that delivery of such a system is markedly enhanced by the application of a magnetic field. The system not only fluorescently detects target mRNA in cultured MCF-7 cancer cells, but also induces its downregulation. Thus, the two-component magnetic nanoparticle system has characteristics of a material that can be used for cancer theranostics.
Collapse
|
33
|
Briot T, Roger E, Thépot S, Lagarce F. Advances in treatment formulations for acute myeloid leukemia. Drug Discov Today 2018; 23:1936-1949. [DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2018.05.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2018] [Revised: 04/25/2018] [Accepted: 05/29/2018] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
|
34
|
Weimbs T, Shillingford JM, Torres J, Kruger SL, Bourgeois BC. Emerging targeted strategies for the treatment of autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease. Clin Kidney J 2018; 11:i27-i38. [PMID: 30581563 PMCID: PMC6295603 DOI: 10.1093/ckj/sfy089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2018] [Accepted: 08/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is a widespread genetic disease that leads to renal failure in the majority of patients. The very first pharmacological treatment, tolvaptan, received Food and Drug Administration approval in 2018 after previous approval in Europe and other countries. However, tolvaptan is moderately effective and may negatively impact a patient's quality of life due to potentially significant side effects. Additional and improved therapies are still urgently needed, and several clinical trials are underway, which are discussed in the companion paper Müller and Benzing (Management of autosomal-dominant polycystic kidney disease-state-of-the-art) Clin Kidney J 2018; 11: i2-i13. Here, we discuss new therapeutic avenues that are currently being investigated at the preclinical stage. We focus on mammalian target of rapamycin and dual kinase inhibitors, compounds that target inflammation and histone deacetylases, RNA-targeted therapeutic strategies, glucosylceramide synthase inhibitors, compounds that affect the metabolism of renal cysts and dietary restriction. We discuss tissue targeting to renal cysts of small molecules via the folate receptor, and of monoclonal antibodies via the polymeric immunoglobulin receptor. A general problem with potential pharmacological approaches is that the many molecular targets that have been implicated in ADPKD are all widely expressed and carry out important functions in many organs and tissues. Because ADPKD is a slowly progressing, chronic disease, it is likely that any therapy will have to continue over years and decades. Therefore, systemically distributed drugs are likely to lead to potentially prohibitive extra-renal side effects during extended treatment. Tissue targeting to renal cysts of such drugs is one potential way around this problem. The use of dietary, instead of pharmacological, interventions is another.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Weimbs
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology; and Neuroscience Research Institute, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
| | - Jonathan M Shillingford
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Nephrology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Jacob Torres
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology; and Neuroscience Research Institute, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
| | - Samantha L Kruger
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology; and Neuroscience Research Institute, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
| | - Bryan C Bourgeois
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology; and Neuroscience Research Institute, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Kurozumi S, Yamaguchi Y, Matsumoto H, Inoue K, Kurosumi M, Oyama T, Horiguchi J, Fujii T, Shirabe K. Comparing protein and mRNA expressions of the human epidermal growth factor receptor family in estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer. Med Mol Morphol 2018; 52:90-98. [PMID: 30259117 DOI: 10.1007/s00795-018-0206-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2018] [Accepted: 09/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER) family plays a vital role in the development of resistance to treatments in estrogen receptor (ER)-positive breast cancer. This study investigated the correlation between protein and mRNA expressions of the HER family in ER-positive breast cancer. We dissected regions of invasive cancer from the frozen tissues of 34 patients with ER-positive breast cancer using laser-capture microdissection, followed by evaluation of the mRNA levels of the ER and HER family (EGFR, HER2, HER3, and HER4) using the quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) assay. In addition, we assessed the protein expressions of the ER and HER family using an immunohistochemical (IHC) assay. A significant correlation was observed between the ER protein and mRNA expressions. For HER2, HER3, and HER4, protein expressions significantly correlated with mRNA levels. We established significant correlations of the mRNA level between EGFR versus HER2, as well as EGFR versus HER3. Furthermore, a significant correlation of the mRNA level between HER2 and HER3 was illustrated. In conclusion, IHC evaluation may be reliable and representable for mRNA. Hence, this study established a marked correlation between the mRNA expressions of HER family members in patients with ER-positive breast cancer.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Adult
- Aged
- Aged, 80 and over
- Breast Neoplasms/genetics
- Breast Neoplasms/metabolism
- Breast Neoplasms/pathology
- ErbB Receptors/genetics
- ErbB Receptors/metabolism
- Female
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic
- Humans
- Immunohistochemistry
- Middle Aged
- RNA, Messenger/genetics
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- Receptor, ErbB-2/genetics
- Receptor, ErbB-2/metabolism
- Receptor, ErbB-3/genetics
- Receptor, ErbB-3/metabolism
- Receptor, ErbB-4/genetics
- Receptor, ErbB-4/metabolism
- Receptors, Estrogen/genetics
- Receptors, Estrogen/metabolism
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sasagu Kurozumi
- Department of General Surgical Science, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, 3-39-22, Showa, Maebashi-City, Gunma, 371-8511, Japan.
- Division of Breast Surgery, Saitama Cancer Center, Saitama, Japan.
| | - Yuri Yamaguchi
- Research Institute for Clinical Oncology, Saitama Cancer Center, Saitama, Japan
| | | | - Kenichi Inoue
- Division of Breast Oncology, Saitama Cancer Center, Saitama, Japan
| | | | - Tetsunari Oyama
- Department of Diagnostic Pathology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Gunma, Japan
| | - Jun Horiguchi
- Department of Breast Surgery, International University of Health and Welfare, Chiba, Japan
| | - Takaaki Fujii
- Department of General Surgical Science, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, 3-39-22, Showa, Maebashi-City, Gunma, 371-8511, Japan
| | - Ken Shirabe
- Department of General Surgical Science, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, 3-39-22, Showa, Maebashi-City, Gunma, 371-8511, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Abstract
There have been many attempts to unveil the therapeutic potential of antisense molecules during the last decade. Due to its specific role in canonical Wnt signalling, β-catenin is a potential target for an antisense-based antitumour therapy. In order to establish such a strategy with peptide nucleic acids, we developed a reporter assay for quantification of antisense effects. The luciferase-based assay detects splice blocking with high sensitivity. Using this assay, we show that the splice donor of exon 13 of β-catenin is particularly suitable for an antisense strategy, as it results in a truncated protein which lacks transactivating functions. Since the truncated proteins retain the interactions with Tcf/Lef proteins, they act in a dominant negative fashion competing with wild-type proteins and thus blocking the transcriptional activity of β-catenin. Furthermore, we show that the truncation does not interfere with binding of cadherin and α-catenin, both essential for its function in cell adhesion. Therefore, the antisense strategy blocks Wnt signalling with high efficiency but retains other important functions of β-catenin.
Collapse
|
37
|
Schrank Z, Khan N, Osude C, Singh S, Miller RJ, Merrick C, Mabel A, Kuckovic A, Puri N. Oligonucleotides Targeting Telomeres and Telomerase in Cancer. Molecules 2018; 23:molecules23092267. [PMID: 30189661 PMCID: PMC6225148 DOI: 10.3390/molecules23092267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2018] [Revised: 08/27/2018] [Accepted: 09/04/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Telomeres and telomerase have become attractive targets for the development of anticancer therapeutics due to their involvement in cancer cell immortality. Currently, several therapeutics have been developed that directly target telomerase and telomeres, such as telomerase inhibitors and G-quadruplex stabilizing ligands. Telomere-specific oligonucleotides that reduce telomerase activity and disrupt telomere architecture are also in development as novel anticancer therapeutics. Specifically, GRN163L and T-oligos have demonstrated promising anticancer activity in multiple cancers types via induction of potent DNA damage responses. Currently, several miRNAs have been implicated in the regulation of telomerase activity and may prove to be valuable targets in the development of novel therapies by reducing expression of telomerase subunits. Targeting miRNAs that are known to increase expression of telomerase subunits may be another strategy to reduce carcinogenesis. This review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of current oligonucleotide-based anticancer therapies that target telomeres and telomerase. These studies may help design novel therapeutic approaches to overcome the challenges of oligonucleotide therapy in a clinical setting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zachary Schrank
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford, Rockford, IL 61107, USA.
| | - Nabiha Khan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford, Rockford, IL 61107, USA.
| | - Chike Osude
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford, Rockford, IL 61107, USA.
| | - Sanjana Singh
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford, Rockford, IL 61107, USA.
| | - Rachel J Miller
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford, Rockford, IL 61107, USA.
| | - Collin Merrick
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford, Rockford, IL 61107, USA.
| | - Alexander Mabel
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford, Rockford, IL 61107, USA.
| | - Adijan Kuckovic
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford, Rockford, IL 61107, USA.
| | - Neelu Puri
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford, Rockford, IL 61107, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Mah JK, Chen YW. A Pediatric Review of Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy. JOURNAL OF PEDIATRIC NEUROLOGY 2018; 16:222-231. [PMID: 30923442 PMCID: PMC6435288 DOI: 10.1055/s-0037-1604197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Facioscapulohumeral dystrophy is one of the most common forms of muscular dystrophies worldwide. It is a complex and heterogeneous disease secondary to insufficient epigenetic repression of D4Z4 repeats and aberrant expression of DUX4 in skeletal muscles. Type 1 facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD) is caused by contraction of D4Z4 repeats on 4q35, whereas type 2 FSHD is associated with mutations of the SMCHD1 or DNMT3B gene in the presence of a disease-permissive 4qA haplotype. Classical FSHD is a slowly progressive disorder with gradual-onset of muscle atrophy and a descending pattern of muscle weakness. In contrast, early-onset FSHD is associated with a large deletion of D4Z4 repeats and a more severe disease phenotype, including early loss of independent ambulation as well as extramuscular manifestations, such as retinal vasculopathy, hearing loss, and central nervous system (CNS) involvement. However, the correlation between D4Z4 repeats and disease severity remains imprecise. The current standard of care guidelines offers comprehensive assessment and symptomatic management of secondary complications. Several clinical trials are currently underway for FSHD. New and emerging treatments focus on correcting the transcriptional misregulation of D4Z4 and reversing the cytotoxic effects of DUX4. Other potential therapeutic targets include reduction of inflammation, improving muscle mass, and activating compensatory molecular pathways. The utility of disease-modifying treatments will depend on selection of sensitive clinical endpoints as well as validation of muscle magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and other biomarkers to detect meaningful changes in disease progression. Correction of the epigenetic defects using new gene editing as well as other DUX4 silencing technologies offers potential treatment options for many individuals with FSHD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jean K. Mah
- Department of Pediatrics and Clinical Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Yi-Wen Chen
- Center for Genetic Medicine Research, Children’s National Health System, Washington, District of Columbia, United States
- Department of Integrative Systems Biology, George Washington University, Washington, District of Columbia, United States
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Laina A, Gatsiou A, Georgiopoulos G, Stamatelopoulos K, Stellos K. RNA Therapeutics in Cardiovascular Precision Medicine. Front Physiol 2018; 9:953. [PMID: 30090066 PMCID: PMC6068259 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2018.00953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2018] [Accepted: 06/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Since our knowledge on structure and function of messenger RNA (mRNA) has expanded from merely being an intermediate molecule between DNA and proteins to the notion that RNA is a dynamic gene regulator that can be modified and edited, RNA has become a focus of interest into developing novel therapeutic schemes. Therapeutic modulation of RNA molecules by DNA- and RNA-based therapies has broadened the scope of therapeutic targets in infectious diseases, cancer, neurodegenerative diseases and most recently in cardiovascular diseases as well. Currently, antisense oligonucleotides (ASO), small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), and microRNAs are the most widely applied therapeutic strategies to target RNA molecules and regulate gene expression and protein production. However, a number of barriers have to be overcome including instability, inadequate binding affinity and delivery to the tissues, immunogenicity, and off-target toxicity in order for these agents to evolve into efficient drugs. As cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of mortality worldwide, a large number of clinical trials are under development investigating the safety and efficacy of RNA therapeutics in clinical conditions such as familial hypercholesterolemia, diabetes mellitus, hypertriglyceridemia, cardiac amyloidosis, and atrial fibrillation. In this review, we summarize the clinical trials of RNA-targeting therapies in cardiovascular disease and critically discuss the advances, the outcomes, the limitations and the future directions of RNA therapeutics in precision transcriptomic medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ageliki Laina
- Department of Clinical Therapeutics, Alexandra Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Aikaterini Gatsiou
- Center of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Cardiovascular Regeneration, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany.,Department of Cardiology, Center of Internal Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany.,German Center of Cardiovascular Research, Rhein-Main Partner Site, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Georgios Georgiopoulos
- Department of Clinical Therapeutics, Alexandra Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Kimon Stamatelopoulos
- Department of Clinical Therapeutics, Alexandra Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Stellos
- Center of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Cardiovascular Regeneration, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany.,Department of Cardiology, Center of Internal Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany.,German Center of Cardiovascular Research, Rhein-Main Partner Site, Frankfurt, Germany.,Cardiovascular Research Centre, Institute of Genetic Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom.,Department of Cardiology, Freeman Hospital, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Diamantopoulos MA, Tsiakanikas P, Scorilas A. Non-coding RNAs: the riddle of the transcriptome and their perspectives in cancer. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2018; 6:241. [PMID: 30069443 DOI: 10.21037/atm.2018.06.10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) constitute a heterogeneous group of RNA molecules in terms of biogenesis, biological function as well as length and structure. These biological molecules have gained attention recently as a potentially crucial layer of tumor cell progression or regulation. ncRNAs are expressed in a broad spectrum of tumors, and they play an important role not only in maintaining but also in promoting cancer development and progression. Recent discoveries have revealed that ncRNAs may act as key signal transduction mediators in tumor signaling pathways by interacting with RNA or proteins. These results reinforce the hypothesis, that ncRNAs constitute therapeutic targets, and point out their clinical potential as stratification markers. The major purpose of this review is to mention the emergence of the importance of ncRNAs, as molecules which are correlated with cancer, and to discuss their clinical implicit as prognostic diagnostic indicators, biomarkers, and therapeutic targets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marios A Diamantopoulos
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Panagiotis Tsiakanikas
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Andreas Scorilas
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Alternative splicing and cancer metastasis: prognostic and therapeutic applications. Clin Exp Metastasis 2018; 35:393-402. [PMID: 29845349 DOI: 10.1007/s10585-018-9905-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2018] [Accepted: 05/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Metastatic cells exhibit an extraordinary phenotypic plasticity, not only in adapting to unfamiliar microenvironments but also in surviving aggressive treatments and immune responses. A major source of phenotypic variability is alternative splicing (AS) of the pre-messenger RNA. This process is catalyzed by one of the most complex pieces of cellular molecular regulatory events, the spliceosome, which is composed of ribonucleoproteins and polypeptides termed spliceosome factors. With strong evidence indicating that AS affects nearly all genes encoded by the human genome, aberrant AS programs have a significant impact on cancer cell development and progression. In this review, we present insights about the genomic and epigenomic factors affecting AS, summarize the most recent findings linking aberrant AS to metastatic progression, and highlight potential prognostic and therapeutic applications.
Collapse
|
42
|
Huber-Ruano I, Raventós C, Cuartas I, Sánchez-Jaro C, Arias A, Parra JL, Wosikowski K, Janicot M, Seoane J. An antisense oligonucleotide targeting TGF-β2 inhibits lung metastasis and induces CD86 expression in tumor-associated macrophages. Ann Oncol 2018; 28:2278-2285. [PMID: 28911087 DOI: 10.1093/annonc/mdx314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The transforming growth factor (TGF)-β pathway is a well-described inducer of immunosuppression and can act as an oncogenic factor in advanced tumors. Several preclinical and clinical studies show that the TGF-β pathway can be considered a promising molecular target for cancer therapy. The human genome has three TGF-β isoforms and not much is known about the oncogenic response to each of the isoforms. Here, we studied the antitumor response to ISTH0047, a recently developed locked nucleic acid-modified antisense oligonucleotide targeting TGF-β2. Materials and methods We have studied the anticancer response to ISTH0047 using gymnotic delivery in tumor cell cultures and in in vivo preclinical orthotopic mouse models for primary tumors (breast and kidney tumors) and lung metastasis. Results We observed that ISTH0047 is able to significantly reduce TGF-β2 mRNA and protein levels without altering the levels of TGF-β1 and TGF-β3. ISTH0047 prevented lung metastasis in syngeneic orthotopic renal cell carcinoma (RENCA) and breast cancer (4T1) tumor models. In addition, using an orthotopic xenograft model of a lung cancer cell line (CRL5807) that mainly expresses TGF-β2, we observed that ISTH0047 had an important effect on the lung microenvironment inhibiting the growth of lung lesions. ISTH0047 treatment re-educated macrophages in the lung parenchyma to express the tumor-suppressive factor, CD86. Conclusion Overall, our data point to TGF-β2 as a therapeutic target and ISTH0047 as a novel anticancer drug to prevent lung metastasis by impacting on the tumor niche, in part, through the induction of CD86 in tumor-associated macrophages.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- I Huber-Ruano
- Translational Research Program, Vall d Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Barcelona
| | - C Raventós
- Translational Research Program, Vall d Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Barcelona
| | - I Cuartas
- Translational Research Program, Vall d Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Barcelona
| | - C Sánchez-Jaro
- Translational Research Program, Vall d Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Barcelona
| | - A Arias
- Translational Research Program, Vall d Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Barcelona
| | - J L Parra
- Translational Research Program, Vall d Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Barcelona
| | | | - M Janicot
- Isarna Therapeutics, Munich, Germany
| | - J Seoane
- Translational Research Program, Vall d Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Barcelona.,Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès.,Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), Barcelona, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Lin C, Yang L. Long Noncoding RNA in Cancer: Wiring Signaling Circuitry. Trends Cell Biol 2018; 28:287-301. [PMID: 29274663 PMCID: PMC5869122 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcb.2017.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 386] [Impact Index Per Article: 64.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2017] [Revised: 11/27/2017] [Accepted: 11/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), which are encoded by a vast less explored region of the human genome, may hold missing drivers of cancer and have gained attention recently as a potentially crucial layer of cancer cell regulation. lncRNAs are aberrantly expressed in a broad spectrum of cancers, and they play key roles in promoting and maintaining tumor initiation and progression, demonstrating their clinical potential as biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Recent discoveries have revealed that lncRNAs act as key signal transduction mediators in cancer signaling pathways by interacting with proteins, RNA, and lipids. Here, we review the mechanisms by which lncRNAs regulate cellular responses to extracellular signals and discuss their clinical potential as diagnostic indicators, stratification markers, and therapeutic targets of combinatorial treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chunru Lin
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; The Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
| | - Liuqing Yang
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; The Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Center for RNA Interference and Non-Coding RNAs, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Moreno PMD, Ferreira AR, Salvador D, Rodrigues MT, Torrado M, Carvalho ED, Tedebark U, Sousa MM, Amaral IF, Wengel J, Pêgo AP. Hydrogel-Assisted Antisense LNA Gapmer Delivery for In Situ Gene Silencing in Spinal Cord Injury. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2018; 11:393-406. [PMID: 29858074 PMCID: PMC5992461 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2018.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2017] [Revised: 03/04/2018] [Accepted: 03/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
After spinal cord injury (SCI), nerve regeneration is severely hampered due to the establishment of a highly inhibitory microenvironment at the injury site, through the contribution of multiple factors. The potential of antisense oligonucleotides (AONs) to modify gene expression at different levels, allowing the regulation of cell survival and cell function, together with the availability of chemically modified nucleic acids with favorable biopharmaceutical properties, make AONs an attractive tool for novel SCI therapy developments. In this work, we explored the potential of locked nucleic acid (LNA)-modified AON gapmers in combination with a fibrin hydrogel bridging material to induce gene silencing in situ at a SCI lesion site. LNA gapmers were effectively developed against two promising gene targets aiming at enhancing axonal regeneration-RhoA and GSK3β. The fibrin-matrix-assisted AON delivery system mediated potent RNA knockdown in vitro in a dorsal root ganglion explant culture system and in vivo at a SCI lesion site, achieving around 75% downregulation 5 days after hydrogel injection. Our results show that local implantation of a AON-gapmer-loaded hydrogel matrix mediated efficient gene silencing in the lesioned spinal cord and is an innovative platform that can potentially combine gene regulation with regenerative permissive substrates aiming at SCI therapeutics and nerve regeneration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pedro M D Moreno
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Ana R Ferreira
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Daniela Salvador
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Maria T Rodrigues
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Marília Torrado
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Eva D Carvalho
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Ulf Tedebark
- GE Healthcare Bio-Sciences AB, 75184 Uppsala, Sweden; SynMer AB, 17568 Järfälla, Sweden
| | - Mónica M Sousa
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; IBMC - Instituto de Biologia Molecular e Celular, Nerve Regeneration Group, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Isabel F Amaral
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Jesper Wengel
- Nucleic Acid Center, Department of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Southern Denmark, 5230 Odense, Denmark
| | - Ana P Pêgo
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; Faculdade de Engenharia da Universidade do Porto, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal; Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar (ICBAS), Universidade do Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal.
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Martinovich KM, Shaw NC, Kicic A, Schultz A, Fletcher S, Wilton SD, Stick SM. The potential of antisense oligonucleotide therapies for inherited childhood lung diseases. Mol Cell Pediatr 2018; 5:3. [PMID: 29411170 PMCID: PMC5801198 DOI: 10.1186/s40348-018-0081-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2017] [Accepted: 01/25/2018] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Antisense oligonucleotides are an emerging therapeutic option to treat diseases with known genetic origin. In the age of personalised medicines, antisense oligonucleotides can sometimes be designed to target and bypass or overcome a patient's genetic mutation, in particular those lesions that compromise normal pre-mRNA processing. Antisense oligonucleotides can alter gene expression through a variety of mechanisms as determined by the chemistry and antisense oligomer design. Through targeting the pre-mRNA, antisense oligonucleotides can alter splicing and induce a specific spliceoform or disrupt the reading frame, target an RNA transcript for degradation through RNaseH activation, block ribosome initiation of protein translation or disrupt miRNA function. The recent accelerated approval of eteplirsen (renamed Exondys 51™) by the Food and Drug Administration, for the treatment of Duchenne muscular dystrophy, and nusinersen, for the treatment of spinal muscular atrophy, herald a new and exciting era in splice-switching antisense oligonucleotide applications to treat inherited diseases. This review considers the potential of antisense oligonucleotides to treat inherited lung diseases of childhood with a focus on cystic fibrosis and disorders of surfactant protein metabolism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kelly M. Martinovich
- School of Paediatrics and Child Health, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia 6009 Australia
- Telethon Kids Institute, Centre for Health Research, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia 6009 Australia
- Centre for Comparative Genomics, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia 6150 Australia
| | - Nicole C. Shaw
- School of Paediatrics and Child Health, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia 6009 Australia
- Telethon Kids Institute, Centre for Health Research, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia 6009 Australia
- Centre for Comparative Genomics, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia 6150 Australia
| | - Anthony Kicic
- School of Paediatrics and Child Health, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia 6009 Australia
- Telethon Kids Institute, Centre for Health Research, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia 6009 Australia
- Centre for Cell Therapy and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine and Pharmacology, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia 6009 Australia
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Princess Margaret Hospital for Children, Subiaco, Western Australia 6008 Australia
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia 6102 Australia
| | - André Schultz
- School of Paediatrics and Child Health, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia 6009 Australia
- Telethon Kids Institute, Centre for Health Research, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia 6009 Australia
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Princess Margaret Hospital for Children, Subiaco, Western Australia 6008 Australia
| | - Sue Fletcher
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia 6009 Australia
- Centre for Comparative Genomics, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia 6150 Australia
| | - Steve D. Wilton
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia 6009 Australia
- Centre for Comparative Genomics, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia 6150 Australia
| | - Stephen M. Stick
- School of Paediatrics and Child Health, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia 6009 Australia
- Telethon Kids Institute, Centre for Health Research, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia 6009 Australia
- Centre for Cell Therapy and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine and Pharmacology, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia 6009 Australia
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Princess Margaret Hospital for Children, Subiaco, Western Australia 6008 Australia
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Wong ACH, Rasko JEJ, Wong JJL. We skip to work: alternative splicing in normal and malignant myelopoiesis. Leukemia 2018; 32:1081-1093. [DOI: 10.1038/s41375-018-0021-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2017] [Revised: 11/14/2017] [Accepted: 12/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
|
47
|
Clusterin inhibition mediates sensitivity to chemotherapy and radiotherapy in human cancer. Anticancer Drugs 2017; 28:702-716. [PMID: 28471806 DOI: 10.1097/cad.0000000000000507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Since its discovery in 1983, the protein clusterin (CLU) has been isolated from almost all human tissues and fluids and linked to the development of different physiopathological processes, including carcinogenesis and tumor progression. During the last few years, several studies have shown the cytoprotective role of secretory CLU in tumor cells, inhibiting their apoptosis and enhancing their resistance to conventional treatments including hormone depletion, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. In an effort to determine the therapeutic potential that the inhibition of this protein could have on the development of new strategies for cancer treatment, numerous studies have been carried out in this field, with results, in most cases, satisfactory but sometimes contradictory. In this document, we summarize for the first time the current knowledge of the effects that CLU inhibition has on sensitizing tumor cells to conventional cancer treatments and discuss its importance in the development of new strategies against cancer.
Collapse
|
48
|
Ebenryter-Olbińska K, Kaniowski D, Sobczak M, Wojtczak BA, Janczak S, Wielgus E, Nawrot B, Leśnikowski ZJ. Versatile Method for the Site-Specific Modification of DNA with Boron Clusters: Anti-Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) Antisense Oligonucleotide Case. Chemistry 2017; 23:16535-16546. [PMID: 28881435 DOI: 10.1002/chem.201702957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2017] [Revised: 08/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
A general and convenient approach for the incorporation of different types of boron clusters into specific locations of the DNA-oligonucleotide chain based on the automated phosphoramidite method of oligonucleotide synthesis and post-synthetic "click chemistry" modification has been developed. Pronounced effects of boron-cluster modification on the physico- and biochemical properties of the antisense oligonucleotides were observed. The silencing activity of antisense oligonucleotides bearing a single boron cluster modification in the middle of the oligonucleotide chain was substantially higher than that of unmodified oligonucleotides. This finding may be of importance for the design of therapeutic nucleic acids with improved properties. The proposed synthetic methodology broadens the availability of nucleic acid-boron cluster conjugates and opens up new avenues for their potential practical use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Ebenryter-Olbińska
- Department of Bioorganic Chemistry, Centre of Molecular and Macromolecular Studies, Polish Academy of Sciences, Sienkiewicza 112, 90-363, Lodz, Poland
| | - Damian Kaniowski
- Department of Bioorganic Chemistry, Centre of Molecular and Macromolecular Studies, Polish Academy of Sciences, Sienkiewicza 112, 90-363, Lodz, Poland
| | - Milena Sobczak
- Department of Bioorganic Chemistry, Centre of Molecular and Macromolecular Studies, Polish Academy of Sciences, Sienkiewicza 112, 90-363, Lodz, Poland
| | - Błażej A Wojtczak
- Laboratory of Molecular Virology and Biological Chemistry, Institute of Medical Biology of the Polish Academy of Sciences, 106 Lodowa St., 92-232, Lodz, Poland.,Present address: University of Warsaw, Center of New Technologies, S. Banacha 2c, 02-097, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Sławomir Janczak
- Laboratory of Molecular Virology and Biological Chemistry, Institute of Medical Biology of the Polish Academy of Sciences, 106 Lodowa St., 92-232, Lodz, Poland
| | - Ewelina Wielgus
- Laboratory for Analysis of Organic Compounds and Polymers, Centre of Molecular and Macromolecular Studies, Polish Academy of Sciences, Sienkiewicza 112, 90-363, Lodz, Poland
| | - Barbara Nawrot
- Department of Bioorganic Chemistry, Centre of Molecular and Macromolecular Studies, Polish Academy of Sciences, Sienkiewicza 112, 90-363, Lodz, Poland
| | - Zbigniew J Leśnikowski
- Laboratory of Molecular Virology and Biological Chemistry, Institute of Medical Biology of the Polish Academy of Sciences, 106 Lodowa St., 92-232, Lodz, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Yang Y, Huang G, Zhou Z, Fewell JG, Kleinerman ES. miR-20a Regulates FAS Expression in Osteosarcoma Cells by Modulating FAS Promoter Activity and Can be Therapeutically Targeted to Inhibit Lung Metastases. Mol Cancer Ther 2017; 17:130-139. [PMID: 29079708 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-17-0042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2017] [Revised: 06/02/2017] [Accepted: 10/05/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The metastatic potential of osteosarcoma cells is inversely correlated to cell surface FAS expression. Downregulation of FAS allows osteosarcoma cells to escape FAS ligand-mediated apoptosis when they enter a FAS ligand-positive microenvironment such as the lung. We have previously demonstrated that miR-20a, encoded by the miR-17-92 cluster, downregulates FAS expression in osteosarcoma. We further demonstrated an inverse correlation between FAS expression and miR-20a expression. However, the mechanism of FAS regulation by miR-20a was still unclear. The purpose of the current study was to evaluate the mechanism of FAS regulation by miR-20a in vitro and test the effect of targeting miR-20a in vivo We investigated whether miR-20a's downregulation of FAS was mediated by binding to the 3'-untranslated region (3'-UTR) of FAS mRNA with the consequent induction of mRNA degradation or translational suppression. We identified and mutated two miR-20a binding sites on the FAS mRNA 3'-UTR. Using luciferase reporter assays, we demonstrated that miR-20a did not bind to either the wild-type or mutated FAS 3'-UTR. In contrast, overexpression of miR-20a resulted in downregulation of FAS promoter activity. Similarly, the inhibition of miR-20a increased FAS promoter activity. The critical region identified on the FAS promoter was between -240 bp and -150 bp. Delivery of anti-miR-20a in vivo using nanoparticles in mice with established osteosarcoma lung metastases resulted in upregulation of FAS and tumor growth inhibition. Taken together, our data suggest that miR-20a regulates FAS expression through the modulation of the FAS promoter and that targeting miR-20a using anti-miR-20a has therapeutic potential. Mol Cancer Ther; 17(1); 130-9. ©2017 AACR.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuanzheng Yang
- Division of Pediatrics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Gangxiong Huang
- Division of Pediatrics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas.,Immunotherapy Institute, Fujian Medical University, University Town, Fuzhou, China
| | - Zhichao Zhou
- Division of Pediatrics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | | | - Eugenie S Kleinerman
- Division of Pediatrics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas.
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Understanding B-DNA to A-DNA transition in the right-handed DNA helix: Perspective from a local to global transition. PROGRESS IN BIOPHYSICS AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2017; 128:63-73. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pbiomolbio.2017.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2016] [Revised: 04/16/2017] [Accepted: 05/23/2017] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
|