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Guimaraes GJ, Kim J, Bartlett MG. Characterization of mRNA therapeutics. MASS SPECTROMETRY REVIEWS 2024; 43:1066-1090. [PMID: 37401740 DOI: 10.1002/mas.21856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023]
Abstract
Therapeutic messenger RNAs (mRNAs) have emerged as powerful tools in the treatment of complex diseases, especially for conditions that lack efficacious treatment. The successful application of this modality can be attributed to its ability to encode entire proteins. While the large nature of these molecules has supported their success as therapeutics, its extended size creates several analytical challenges. To further support therapeutic mRNA development and its deployment in clinical trials, appropriate methods to support their characterization must be developed. In this review, we describe current analytical methods that have been used in the characterization of RNA quality, identity, and integrity. Advantages and limitations from several analytical techniques ranging from gel electrophoresis to liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry and from shotgun sequencing to intact mass measurements are discussed. We comprehensively describe the application of analytical methods in the measurements of capping efficiency, poly A tail analysis, as well as their applicability in stability studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guilherme J Guimaraes
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
| | - Jaeah Kim
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
| | - Michael G Bartlett
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
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2
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Rahn HP, Sun J, Li Z, Waymouth RM, Levy R, Wender PA. Isoprenoid CARTs: In Vitro and In Vivo mRNA Delivery by Charge-Altering Releasable Transporters Functionalized with Archaea-inspired Branched Lipids. Biomacromolecules 2024; 25:4305-4316. [PMID: 38814265 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.4c00373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
The delivery of oligonucleotides across biological barriers is a challenge of unsurpassed significance at the interface of materials science and medicine, with emerging clinical utility in prophylactic and therapeutic vaccinations, immunotherapies, genome editing, and cell rejuvenation. Here, we address the role of readily available branched lipids in the design, synthesis, and evaluation of isoprenoid charge-altering releasable transporters (CARTs), a pH-responsive oligomeric nanoparticle delivery system for RNA. Systematic variation of the lipid block reveals an emergent relationship between the lipid block and the neutralization kinetics of the polycationic block. Unexpectedly, iA21A11, a CART with the smallest lipid side chain, isoamyl-, was identified as the lead isoprenoid CART for the in vitro transfection of immortalized lymphoblastic cell lines. When administered intramuscularly in a murine model, iA21A11-mRNA complexes induce higher protein expression levels than our previous lead CART, ONA. Isoprenoid CARTs represent a new delivery platform for RNA vaccines and other polyanion-based therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harrison P Rahn
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - Jiuzhi Sun
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - Zhijian Li
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - Robert M Waymouth
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - Ronald Levy
- Stanford Cancer Institute, Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - Paul A Wender
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
- Department of Chemical and Systems Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
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3
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Shang X, Geng L, Wei HJ, Liu T, Che X, Li W, Liu Y, Shi XD, Li J, Teng X, Xu W. Analysis revealed the molecular mechanism of oxidative stress-autophagy-induced liver injury caused by high alkalinity: integrated whole hepatic transcriptome and metabolome. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1431224. [PMID: 39040116 PMCID: PMC11260628 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1431224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction High-alkalinity water is a serious health hazard for fish and can cause oxidative stress and metabolic dysregulation in fish livers. However, the molecular mechanism of liver damage caused by high alkalinity in fish is unclear. Methods In this study, 180 carp were randomly divided into a control (C) group and a high-alkalinity (A25) group and were cultured for 56 days. High-alkalinity-induced liver injury was analysed using histopathological, whole-transcriptome, and metabolomic analyses. Results Many autophagic bodies and abundant mitochondrial membrane damage were observed in the A25 group. High alkalinity decreased superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity and the total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) and increased the malondialdehyde (MDA) content in liver tissues, causing oxidative stress in the liver. Transcriptome analysis revealed 61 differentially expressed microRNAs (miRNAs) and 4008 differentially expressed mRNAs. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis revealed that mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), forkhead box O (FoxO), mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), and the autophagy signalling pathway were the molecular mechanisms involved. High alkalinity causes oxidative stress and autophagy and results in autophagic damage in the liver. Bioinformatic predictions indicated that Unc-51 Like Kinase 2 (ULK2) was a potential target gene for miR-140-5p, demonstrating that high alkalinity triggered autophagy through the miR-140-5p-ULK2 axis. Metabolomic analysis revealed that the concentrations of cortisol 21-sulfate and beta-aminopropionitrile were significantly increased, while those of creatine and uracil were significantly decreased. Discussion The effects of high alkalinity on oxidative stress and autophagy injury in the liver were analysed using whole-transcriptome miRNA-mRNA networks and metabolomics approaches. Our study provides new insights into liver injury caused by highly alkaline water.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinchi Shang
- Heilongjiang River Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Harbin, China
- Key Laboratory of Cold Water Fish Germplasm Resources and Multiplication and Cultivation of Heilongjiang Province, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
- College of Life Science, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, China
| | - Longwu Geng
- Heilongjiang River Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Harbin, China
- Key Laboratory of Cold Water Fish Germplasm Resources and Multiplication and Cultivation of Heilongjiang Province, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Hai jun Wei
- Heilongjiang River Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Harbin, China
- Key Laboratory of Cold Water Fish Germplasm Resources and Multiplication and Cultivation of Heilongjiang Province, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Tianqi Liu
- Heilongjiang River Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Harbin, China
- Key Laboratory of Cold Water Fish Germplasm Resources and Multiplication and Cultivation of Heilongjiang Province, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Xinghua Che
- Heilongjiang River Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Harbin, China
- Key Laboratory of Cold Water Fish Germplasm Resources and Multiplication and Cultivation of Heilongjiang Province, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Wang Li
- Heilongjiang River Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Harbin, China
- Key Laboratory of Cold Water Fish Germplasm Resources and Multiplication and Cultivation of Heilongjiang Province, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Yuhao Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, China
| | - Xiao dan Shi
- Heilongjiang River Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Harbin, China
| | - Jianhong Li
- College of Life Science, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, China
| | - Xiaohua Teng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, China
| | - Wei Xu
- Heilongjiang River Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Harbin, China
- Key Laboratory of Cold Water Fish Germplasm Resources and Multiplication and Cultivation of Heilongjiang Province, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
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Carson LM, Watson EE. Peptide Nucleic Acids: From Origami to Editing. Chempluschem 2024:e202400305. [PMID: 38972843 DOI: 10.1002/cplu.202400305] [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: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 07/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024]
Abstract
Peptide nucleic acids (PNAs) combine the programmability of native nucleic acids with the robustness and ease of synthesis of a peptide backbone. These designer biomolecules have demonstrated tremendous utility across a broad range of applications, from the formation of bespoke biosupramolecular architectures to biosensing and gene regulation. Herein, we explore some of the key developments in the application of PNA in chemical biology and biotechnology in the last 5 years and present anticipated key areas of future development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liam M Carson
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Adelaide, North Terrace, Adelaide, SA, 5005, Australia
| | - Emma E Watson
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Adelaide, North Terrace, Adelaide, SA, 5005, Australia
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5
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Khan HY, Ansari MF, Tabassum S, Arjmand F. A review on the recent advances of interaction studies of anticancer metal-based drugs with therapeutic targets, DNA and RNAs. Drug Discov Today 2024; 29:104055. [PMID: 38852835 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2024.104055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 05/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
Metal-based drugs hold promise as potent anticancer agents owing to their unique interactions with cellular targets. This review discusses recent advances in our understanding of the intricate molecular interactions of metal-based anticancer compounds with specific therapeutic targets in cancer cells. Advanced computational and experimental methodologies delineate the binding mechanisms, structural dynamics and functional outcomes of these interactions. In addition, the review sheds light on the precise modes of action of these drugs, their efficacy and the potential avenues for further optimization in cancer-treatment strategies and the development of targeted and effective metal-based therapies for combating various forms of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huzaifa Yasir Khan
- Department of Chemistry, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh 202002, UP, India
| | | | - Sartaj Tabassum
- Department of Chemistry, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh 202002, UP, India
| | - Farukh Arjmand
- Department of Chemistry, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh 202002, UP, India.
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Li Y, Mondaza-Hernandez JL, Moura DS, Revenko AS, Tolentino A, Nguyen JT, Tran N, Meyer CA, Merino-Garcia J, Ramos R, Di Lernia D, Martin-Broto J, Hayenga HN, Bleris L. STAT6-targeting antisense oligonucleotides against solitary fibrous tumor. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2024; 35:102154. [PMID: 38511173 PMCID: PMC10950871 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2024.102154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
Solitary fibrous tumor (SFT) is a rare, non-hereditary soft tissue sarcoma thought to originate from fibroblastic mesenchymal stem cells. The etiology of SFT is thought to be due to an environmental intrachromosomal gene fusion between NGFI-A-binding protein 2 (NAB2) and signal transducer and activator protein 6 (STAT6) genes on chromosome 12, wherein the activation domain of STAT6 is fused with the DNA-binding domain of NAB2 resulting in the oncogenesis of SFT. All NAB2-STAT6 fusion variations discovered in SFTs contain the C-terminal of STAT6 transcript, and thus can serve as target site for antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs)-based therapies. Indeed, our in vitro studies show the STAT6 3' untranslated region (UTR)-targeting ASO (ASO 993523) was able to reduce expression of NAB2-STAT6 fusion transcripts in multiple SFT cell models with high efficiency (half-maximal inhibitory concentration: 116-300 nM). Encouragingly, in vivo treatment of SFT patient-derived xenograft mouse models with ASO 993523 resulted in acceptable tolerability profiles, reduced expression of NAB2-STAT6 fusion transcripts in xenograft tissues (21.9%), and, importantly, reduced tumor growth (32.4% decrease in tumor volume compared with the untreated control). Taken together, our study established ASO 993523 as a potential agent for the treatment of SFTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Li
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, USA
- Center for Systems Biology, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, USA
| | - Jose L. Mondaza-Hernandez
- Health Research Institute Fundacion Jimenez Diaz, Universidad Autonoma de Madrid (IIS/FJD-UAM), 28049 Madrid, Spain
- University Hospital General de Villalba, 28400 Madrid, Spain
| | - David S. Moura
- Health Research Institute Fundacion Jimenez Diaz, Universidad Autonoma de Madrid (IIS/FJD-UAM), 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - Alexey S. Revenko
- Department of Antisense Drug Discovery, Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Inc, Carlsbad, CA 92010, USA
| | - Angelica Tolentino
- Department of Antisense Drug Discovery, Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Inc, Carlsbad, CA 92010, USA
| | - John T. Nguyen
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, USA
- Center for Systems Biology, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, USA
| | - Nam Tran
- Neurosurgical Oncology, Department of Neuro-Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Clark A. Meyer
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, USA
| | - Jose Merino-Garcia
- Pathology Department, University Hospital Fundacion Jimenez Diaz, Universidad Autonoma, Av. Reyes Catolicos 2, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Rafael Ramos
- Pathology Department, University Hospital Son Espases, 07120 Palma de Mallorca, Spain
| | - Davide Di Lernia
- Health Research Institute Fundacion Jimenez Diaz, Universidad Autonoma de Madrid (IIS/FJD-UAM), 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - Javier Martin-Broto
- Health Research Institute Fundacion Jimenez Diaz, Universidad Autonoma de Madrid (IIS/FJD-UAM), 28049 Madrid, Spain
- University Hospital General de Villalba, 28400 Madrid, Spain
- Medical Oncology Department, University Hospital Fundacion Jimenez Diaz, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Heather N. Hayenga
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, USA
| | - Leonidas Bleris
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, USA
- Center for Systems Biology, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, USA
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Yuan W, Shi X, Lee LTO. RNA therapeutics in targeting G protein-coupled receptors: Recent advances and challenges. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2024; 35:102195. [PMID: 38741614 PMCID: PMC11089380 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2024.102195] [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] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are the major targets of existing drugs for a plethora of human diseases and dominate the pharmaceutical market. However, over 50% of the GPCRs remain undruggable. To pursue a breakthrough and overcome this situation, there is significant clinical research for developing RNA-based drugs specifically targeting GPCRs, but none has been approved so far. RNA therapeutics represent a unique and promising approach to selectively targeting previously undruggable targets, including undruggable GPCRs. However, the development of RNA therapeutics faces significant challenges in areas of RNA stability and efficient in vivo delivery. This review presents an overview of the advances in RNA therapeutics and the diverse types of nanoparticle RNA delivery systems. It also describes the potential applications of GPCR-targeted RNA drugs for various human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanjun Yuan
- Cancer Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa 999078, Macau, China
| | - Xiangyang Shi
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Nano-Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine, College of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, People’s Republic of China
| | - Leo Tsz On Lee
- Cancer Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa 999078, Macau, China
- Ministry of Education Frontiers Science Center for Precision Oncology, University of Macau, Taipa 999078, Macau, China
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8
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Lin S, Hong L, Wei DQ, Xiong Y. Deep learning facilitates efficient optimization of antisense oligonucleotide drugs. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2024; 35:102208. [PMID: 38803420 PMCID: PMC11129084 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2024.102208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Shenggeng Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Artificial Intelligence Biomedical Center, Zhangjiang Institute for Advanced Study, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Liang Hong
- Artificial Intelligence Biomedical Center, Zhangjiang Institute for Advanced Study, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Artificial Intelligence Laboratory, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Natural Sciences, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Dong-Qing Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi Xiong
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Artificial Intelligence Biomedical Center, Zhangjiang Institute for Advanced Study, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Artificial Intelligence Laboratory, Shanghai, China
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9
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Mosca N, Alessio N, Di Paola A, Marrapodi MM, Galderisi U, Russo A, Rossi F, Potenza N. Osteosarcoma in a ceRNET perspective. J Biomed Sci 2024; 31:59. [PMID: 38835012 DOI: 10.1186/s12929-024-01049-y] [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: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Osteosarcoma (OS) is the most prevalent and fatal type of bone tumor. It is characterized by great heterogeneity of genomic aberrations, mutated genes, and cell types contribution, making therapy and patients management particularly challenging. A unifying picture of molecular mechanisms underlying the disease could help to transform those challenges into opportunities.This review deeply explores the occurrence in OS of large-scale RNA regulatory networks, denominated "competing endogenous RNA network" (ceRNET), wherein different RNA biotypes, such as long non-coding RNAs, circular RNAs and mRNAs can functionally interact each other by competitively binding to shared microRNAs. Here, we discuss how the unbalancing of any network component can derail the entire circuit, driving OS onset and progression by impacting on cell proliferation, migration, invasion, tumor growth and metastasis, and even chemotherapeutic resistance, as distilled from many studies. Intriguingly, the aberrant expression of the networks components in OS cells can be triggered also by the surroundings, through cytokines and vesicles, with their bioactive cargo of proteins and non-coding RNAs, highlighting the relevance of tumor microenvironment. A comprehensive picture of RNA regulatory networks underlying OS could pave the way for the development of innovative RNA-targeted and RNA-based therapies and new diagnostic tools, also in the perspective of precision oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Mosca
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Nicola Alessio
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Alessandra Di Paola
- Department of Woman, Child and General and Specialist Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Maddalena Marrapodi
- Department of Woman, Child and General and Specialist Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Umberto Galderisi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Aniello Russo
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Francesca Rossi
- Department of Woman, Child and General and Specialist Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Potenza
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy.
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10
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Naimi N, Seyedmirzaei H, Hassannejad Z, Soltani Khaboushan A. Advanced nanoparticle strategies for optimizing RNA therapeutic delivery in neurodegenerative disorders. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 175:116691. [PMID: 38713941 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Revised: 04/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases affect many people worldwide, and as the population ages, the incidence of these conditions increases. Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD) are the most prevalent neurodegenerative disorders worldwide. Different medicines are being used to control symptoms related to these conditions, but no treatment has yet been approved. Both genetic and environmental factors are involved in disease pathogenesis, and research on the pathophysiological pathways is still ongoing. The role of subcellular pathways and dysregulation in RNA pathways has been highlighted in pathophysiological studies, and treatment strategies focused on these pathways can be a promising approach. Many experiments have been conducted on delivering RNA cargo to the CNS to modulate various pathways involved. Yet another challenge to be faced is the effective transport of desired molecules to targets, which can be greatly hindered by distinct barriers limiting transport to the CNS, most noticeably the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Nanotechnology and the use of different nano-carriers for the delivery of nucleotides, peptides, proteins, and drug molecules are currently of great interest as these carriers help with better delivery and protection and, as a result, improve the effectiveness of the cargo. Nanocarriers can protect susceptible RNA molecules from possible degradation or destruction and improve their ability to reach the brain by enhancing BBB penetration. Different mechanisms for this process have been hypothesized. This review will go through the therapeutic application of RNA molecules in the treatment of AD and PD and the role of nanocarriers in overcoming delivery challenges and enhancing efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narges Naimi
- Departement of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Pediatric Urology and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Gene, Cell and Tissue Research Institute, Children's Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Homa Seyedmirzaei
- Sports Medicine Research Center, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Hassannejad
- Pediatric Urology and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Gene, Cell and Tissue Research Institute, Children's Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Alireza Soltani Khaboushan
- Pediatric Urology and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Gene, Cell and Tissue Research Institute, Children's Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran; Students' Scientific Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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11
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Ciucci G, Braga L, Zacchigna S. Discovery platforms for RNA therapeutics. Br J Pharmacol 2024. [PMID: 38760893 DOI: 10.1111/bph.16424] [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: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 04/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024] Open
Abstract
RNA therapeutics are emerging as a unique opportunity to drug currently "undruggable" molecules and diseases. While their advantages over conventional, small molecule drugs, their therapeutic implications and the tools for their effective in vivo delivery have been extensively reviewed, little attention has been so far paid to the technological platforms exploited for the discovery of RNA therapeutics. Here, we provide an overview of the existing platforms and ex vivo assays for RNA discovery, their advantages and disadvantages, as well as their main fields of application, with specific focus on RNA therapies that have reached either phase 3 or market approval.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulio Ciucci
- Cardiovascular Biology Laboratory, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Trieste, Italy
| | - Luca Braga
- Functional Cell Biology Laboratory, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Trieste, Italy
| | - Serena Zacchigna
- Cardiovascular Biology Laboratory, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Trieste, Italy
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
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12
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Nogueira SS, Samaridou E, Simon J, Frank S, Beck-Broichsitter M, Mehta A. Analytical techniques for the characterization of nanoparticles for mRNA delivery. Eur J Pharm Biopharm 2024; 198:114235. [PMID: 38401742 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2024.114235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
Nanotechnology-assisted RNA delivery has gotten a tremendous boost over the last decade and made a significant impact in the development of life-changing vaccines and therapeutics. With increasing numbers of emerging lipid- and polymer-based RNA nanoparticles progressing towards the clinic, it has become apparent that the safety and efficacy of these medications depend on the comprehensive understanding of their critical quality attributes (CQAs). However, despite the rapid advancements in the field, the identification and reliable quantification of CQAs remain a significant challenge. To support these efforts, this review aims to summarize the present knowledge on CQAs based on the regulatory guidelines and to provide insights into the available analytical characterization techniques for RNA-loaded nanoparticles. In this context, routine and emerging analytical techniques are categorized and discussed, focusing on the operation principle, strengths, and potential limitations. Furthermore, the importance of complementary and orthogonal techniques for the measurement of CQAs is discussed in order to ensure the quality and consistency of analytical methods used, and address potential technique-based differences.
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13
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Croft LV, Fisher M, Barbhuiya TK, El-Kamand S, Beard S, Rajapakse A, Gamsjaeger R, Cubeddu L, Bolderson E, O'Byrne K, Richard D, Gandhi NS. Sequence- and Structure-Dependent Cytotoxicity of Phosphorothioate and 2'- O-Methyl Modified Single-Stranded Oligonucleotides. Nucleic Acid Ther 2024; 34:143-155. [PMID: 38648015 DOI: 10.1089/nat.2023.0056] [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: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Single-stranded oligonucleotides (SSOs) are a rapidly expanding class of therapeutics that comprises antisense oligonucleotides, microRNAs, and aptamers, with ten clinically approved molecules. Chemical modifications such as the phosphorothioate backbone and the 2'-O-methyl ribose can improve the stability and pharmacokinetic properties of therapeutic SSOs, but they can also lead to toxicity in vitro and in vivo through nonspecific interactions with cellular proteins, gene expression changes, disturbed RNA processing, and changes in nuclear structures and protein distribution. In this study, we screened a mini library of 277 phosphorothioate and 2'-O-methyl-modified SSOs, with or without mRNA complementarity, for cytotoxic properties in two cancer cell lines. Using circular dichroism, nucleic magnetic resonance, and molecular dynamics simulations, we show that phosphorothioate- and 2'-O-methyl-modified SSOs that form stable hairpin structures through Watson-Crick base pairing are more likely to be cytotoxic than those that exist in an extended conformation. In addition, moderate and highly cytotoxic SSOs in our dataset have a higher mean purine composition than pyrimidine. Overall, our study demonstrates a structure-cytotoxicity relationship and indicates that the formation of stable hairpins should be a consideration when designing SSOs toward optimal therapeutic profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura V Croft
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Centre for Genomics and Personalised Health, Cancer and Ageing Research Program at Translational Research Institute, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Mark Fisher
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Centre for Genomics and Personalised Health, Cancer and Ageing Research Program at Translational Research Institute, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Tabassum Khair Barbhuiya
- School of Chemistry and Physics, Centre for Genomics and Personalised Health, Faculty of Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Serene El-Kamand
- School of Science, Western Sydney University, Penrith, Australia
| | - Samuel Beard
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Centre for Genomics and Personalised Health, Cancer and Ageing Research Program at Translational Research Institute, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Aleksandra Rajapakse
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Centre for Genomics and Personalised Health, Cancer and Ageing Research Program at Translational Research Institute, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | | | - Liza Cubeddu
- School of Science, Western Sydney University, Penrith, Australia
| | - Emma Bolderson
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Centre for Genomics and Personalised Health, Cancer and Ageing Research Program at Translational Research Institute, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Ken O'Byrne
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Centre for Genomics and Personalised Health, Cancer and Ageing Research Program at Translational Research Institute, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
- Princess Alexandra Hospital, Woolloongabba, Australia
| | - Derek Richard
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Centre for Genomics and Personalised Health, Cancer and Ageing Research Program at Translational Research Institute, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Neha S Gandhi
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Centre for Genomics and Personalised Health, Cancer and Ageing Research Program at Translational Research Institute, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
- School of Chemistry and Physics, Centre for Genomics and Personalised Health, Faculty of Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Manipal Institute of Technology, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Karnataka, India
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14
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Zhou M, He X, Zhang J, Mei C, Zhong B, Ou C. tRNA-derived small RNAs in human cancers: roles, mechanisms, and clinical application. Mol Cancer 2024; 23:76. [PMID: 38622694 PMCID: PMC11020452 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-024-01992-2] [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: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Transfer RNA (tRNA)-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs) are a new type of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) produced by the specific cleavage of precursor or mature tRNAs. tsRNAs are involved in various basic biological processes such as epigenetic, transcriptional, post-transcriptional, and translation regulation, thereby affecting the occurrence and development of various human diseases, including cancers. Recent studies have shown that tsRNAs play an important role in tumorigenesis by regulating biological behaviors such as malignant proliferation, invasion and metastasis, angiogenesis, immune response, tumor resistance, and tumor metabolism reprogramming. These may be new potential targets for tumor treatment. Furthermore, tsRNAs can exist abundantly and stably in various bodily fluids (e.g., blood, serum, and urine) in the form of free or encapsulated extracellular vesicles, thereby affecting intercellular communication in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Meanwhile, their abnormal expression is closely related to the clinicopathological features of tumor patients, such as tumor staging, lymph node metastasis, and poor prognosis of tumor patients; thus, tsRNAs can be served as a novel type of liquid biopsy biomarker. This review summarizes the discovery, production, and expression of tsRNAs and analyzes their molecular mechanisms in tumor development and potential applications in tumor therapy, which may provide new strategies for early diagnosis and targeted therapy of tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manli Zhou
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, China
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, China
| | - Xiaoyun He
- Departments of Ultrasound Imaging, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, China
| | - Cheng Mei
- Department of Blood Transfusion, Xiangya Hospital, Clinical Transfusion Research Center, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, China.
| | - Baiyun Zhong
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, China.
| | - Chunlin Ou
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, China.
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15
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Zhang M, Zhang C. Preferential cleavage of upstream targets in concatenated miRNA/siRNA target sites support a 5'-3' scanning model for RISC target recognition. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2024; 703:149662. [PMID: 38359613 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2024.149662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi) is becoming medicine for curing human diseases. Still, we lack a thorough understanding of some fundamental aspects of RNAi that affect its efficiency and accuracy. One such question is how RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC) can efficiently find its targets. To address this question, we developed a strategy that involves the expression of mRNAs containing concatenations of identical miRNA/siRNA target sites. These mRNAs were cleaved by co-expressed miRNAs in plant cells or by co-transfected siRNAs in mammalian cells. The mRNA cleavage events were then detected using the 5'RACE assay. Using this strategy, we found that RISCs preferentially cleave the upstream ones of concatenated target sites, consistent with a model that RISC scans mRNA in 5'→3' direction to approach its target sites. The stability of the cleaved mRNA fragments correlates with the complementarity between siRNA and its target sequence. When siRNA perfectly complements its target sequence, the cleaved mRNA fragment becomes stable and may be cleaved in a second round. Our findings have practical implications for designing siRNAs with increased efficiency and reduced off-target effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mancang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Adaptation and Improvement, School of Life Sciences, College of Agriculture, Henan University, Kaifeng, 475004, China
| | - Changqing Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Adaptation and Improvement, School of Life Sciences, College of Agriculture, Henan University, Kaifeng, 475004, China.
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16
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Teng M, Xia ZJ, Lo N, Daud K, He HH. Assembling the RNA therapeutics toolbox. MEDICAL REVIEW (2021) 2024; 4:110-128. [PMID: 38680684 PMCID: PMC11046573 DOI: 10.1515/mr-2023-0062] [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: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
From the approval of COVID-19 mRNA vaccines to the 2023 Nobel Prize awarded for nucleoside base modifications, RNA therapeutics have entered the spotlight and are transforming drug development. While the term "RNA therapeutics" has been used in various contexts, this review focuses on treatments that utilize RNA as a component or target RNA for therapeutic effects. We summarize the latest advances in RNA-targeting tools and RNA-based technologies, including but not limited to mRNA, antisense oligos, siRNAs, small molecules and RNA editors. We focus on the mechanisms of current FDA-approved therapeutics but also provide a discussion on the upcoming workforces. The clinical utility of RNA-based therapeutics is enabled not only by the advances in RNA technologies but in conjunction with the significant improvements in chemical modifications and delivery platforms, which are also briefly discussed in the review. We summarize the latest RNA therapeutics based on their mechanisms and therapeutic effects, which include expressing proteins for vaccination and protein replacement therapies, degrading deleterious RNA, modulating transcription and translation efficiency, targeting noncoding RNAs, binding and modulating protein activity and editing RNA sequences and modifications. This review emphasizes the concept of an RNA therapeutic toolbox, pinpointing the readers to all the tools available for their desired research and clinical goals. As the field advances, the catalog of RNA therapeutic tools continues to grow, further allowing researchers to combine appropriate RNA technologies with suitable chemical modifications and delivery platforms to develop therapeutics tailored to their specific clinical challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona Teng
- Department of Medical Biophysics, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Ziting Judy Xia
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Nicholas Lo
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Kashif Daud
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Housheng Hansen He
- Department of Medical Biophysics, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
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17
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Sun S, Gao L. Contrastive pre-training and 3D convolution neural network for RNA and small molecule binding affinity prediction. Bioinformatics 2024; 40:btae155. [PMID: 38507691 PMCID: PMC11007238 DOI: 10.1093/bioinformatics/btae155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
MOTIVATION The diverse structures and functions inherent in RNAs present a wealth of potential drug targets. Some small molecules are anticipated to serve as leading compounds, providing guidance for the development of novel RNA-targeted therapeutics. Consequently, the determination of RNA-small molecule binding affinity is a critical undertaking in the landscape of RNA-targeted drug discovery and development. Nevertheless, to date, only one computational method for RNA-small molecule binding affinity prediction has been proposed. The prediction of RNA-small molecule binding affinity remains a significant challenge. The development of a computational model is deemed essential to effectively extract relevant features and predict RNA-small molecule binding affinity accurately. RESULTS In this study, we introduced RLaffinity, a novel deep learning model designed for the prediction of RNA-small molecule binding affinity based on 3D structures. RLaffinity integrated information from RNA pockets and small molecules, utilizing a 3D convolutional neural network (3D-CNN) coupled with a contrastive learning-based self-supervised pre-training model. To the best of our knowledge, RLaffinity was the first deep learning based method for the prediction of RNA-small molecule binding affinity. Our experimental results exhibited RLaffinity's superior performance compared to baseline methods, revealed by all metrics. The efficacy of RLaffinity underscores the capability of 3D-CNN to accurately extract both global pocket information and local neighbor nucleotide information within RNAs. Notably, the integration of a self-supervised pre-training model significantly enhanced predictive performance. Ultimately, RLaffinity was also proved as a potential tool for RNA-targeted drugs virtual screening. AVAILABILITY AND IMPLEMENTATION https://github.com/SaisaiSun/RLaffinity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saisai Sun
- School of Computer Science and Technology, Xidian University, No.266 Xinglong Section of Xi Feng Road, Xi’an, Shaanxi, 710126, China
| | - Lin Gao
- School of Computer Science and Technology, Xidian University, No.266 Xinglong Section of Xi Feng Road, Xi’an, Shaanxi, 710126, China
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18
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Romero-López C, Berzal-Herranz A. siRNA Therapeutics: From Bench Lab. to Clinics. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:416. [PMID: 38675378 PMCID: PMC11053421 DOI: 10.3390/ph17040416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The discovery of the RNA interference (RNAi) mechanism in 1998 by Andrew Fire and Craig C [...].
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Romero-López
- Instituto de Parasitología y Biomedicina López-Neyra, CSIC, PTS Granada, Av del Conocimiento 17, 18016 Granada, Spain
| | - Alfredo Berzal-Herranz
- Instituto de Parasitología y Biomedicina López-Neyra, CSIC, PTS Granada, Av del Conocimiento 17, 18016 Granada, Spain
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19
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Gangopadhyay S, Das G, Gupta S, Ghosh A, Bagale SS, Roy PK, Mandal M, Harikrishna S, Sinha S, Gore KR. 4'- C-Acetamidomethyl-2'- O-methoxyethyl Nucleic Acid Modifications Improve Thermal Stability, Nuclease Resistance, Potency, and hAgo2 Binding of Small Interfering RNAs. J Org Chem 2024; 89:3747-3768. [PMID: 38394362 DOI: 10.1021/acs.joc.3c02506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
In this study, we designed the 4'-C-acetamidomethyl-2'-O-methoxyethyl (4'-C-ACM-2'-O-MOE) uridine and thymidine modifications, aiming to test them into small interfering RNAs. Thermal melting studies revealed that incorporating a single 4'-C-ACM-2'-O-MOE modification in the DNA duplex reduced thermal stability. In contrast, an increase in thermal stability was observed when the modification was introduced in DNA:RNA hybrid and in siRNAs. Thermal destabilization in DNA duplex was attributed to unfavorable entropy, which was mainly compensated by the enthalpy factor to some extent. A single 4'-C-ACM-2'-O-MOE thymidine modification at the penultimate position of the 3'-end of dT20 oligonucleotides in the presence of 3'-specific exonucleases, snake venom phosphodiesterase (SVPD), demonstrated significant stability as compared to monomer modifications including 2'-O-Me, 2'-O-MOE, and 2'-F. In gene silencing studies, we found that the 4'-C-ACM-2'-O-MOE uridine or thymidine modifications at the 3'-overhang in the passenger strand in combination with two 2'-F modifications exhibited superior RNAi activity. The results suggest that the dual modification is well tolerated at the 3'-end of the passenger strand, which reflects better siRNA stability and silencing activity. Interestingly, 4'-C-ACM-2'-O-MOE-modified siRNAs showed considerable gene silencing even after 96 h posttransfection; it showed that our modification could induce prolonged gene silencing due to improved metabolic stability. Molecular modeling studies revealed that the introduction of the 4'-C-ACM-2'-O-MOE modification at the 3'-end of the siRNA guide strand helps to anchor the strand within the PAZ domain of the hAgo2 protein. The overall results indicate that the 4'-C-ACM-2'-O-MOE uridine and thymidine modifications are promising modifications to improve the stability, potency, and hAgo2 binding of siRNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumit Gangopadhyay
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur, West Bengal 721302, India
| | - Gourav Das
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur, West Bengal 721302, India
| | - Shalini Gupta
- School of Applied and Interdisciplinary Sciences, Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science, Kolkata, Jadavpur 700032, India
| | - Atanu Ghosh
- School of Applied and Interdisciplinary Sciences, Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science, Kolkata, Jadavpur 700032, India
| | | | - Pritam Kumar Roy
- School of Medical Science and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur, West Bengal 721302, India
| | - Mahitosh Mandal
- School of Medical Science and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur, West Bengal 721302, India
| | - S Harikrishna
- Center for Structural Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, United States
| | - Surajit Sinha
- School of Applied and Interdisciplinary Sciences, Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science, Kolkata, Jadavpur 700032, India
| | - Kiran R Gore
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur, West Bengal 721302, India
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20
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Thau H, Neuber S, Emmert MY, Nazari-Shafti TZ. Targeting Lipoprotein(a): Can RNA Therapeutics Provide the Next Step in the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease? Cardiol Ther 2024; 13:39-67. [PMID: 38381282 PMCID: PMC10899152 DOI: 10.1007/s40119-024-00353-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Numerous genetic and epidemiologic studies have demonstrated an association between elevated levels of lipoprotein(a) (Lp[a]) and cardiovascular disease. As a result, lowering Lp(a) levels is widely recognized as a promising strategy for reducing the risk of new-onset coronary heart disease, stroke, and heart failure. Lp(a) consists of a low-density lipoprotein-like particle with covalently linked apolipoprotein A (apo[a]) and apolipoprotein B-100, which explains its pro-thrombotic, pro-inflammatory, and pro-atherogenic properties. Lp(a) serum concentrations are genetically determined by the apo(a) isoform, with shorter isoforms having a higher rate of particle synthesis. To date, there are no approved pharmacological therapies that effectively reduce Lp(a) levels. Promising treatment approaches targeting apo(a) expression include RNA-based drugs such as pelacarsen, olpasiran, SLN360, and lepodisiran, which are currently in clinical trials. In this comprehensive review, we provide a detailed overview of RNA-based therapeutic approaches and discuss the recent advances and challenges of RNA therapeutics specifically designed to reduce Lp(a) levels and thus the risk of cardiovascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henriette Thau
- Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, Deutsches Herzzentrum der Charité (DHZC), 13353, Berlin, Germany
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 13353, Berlin, Germany
- BIH Center for Regenerative Therapies (BCRT), Berlin Institute of Health at Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13353, Berlin, Germany
| | - Sebastian Neuber
- Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, Deutsches Herzzentrum der Charité (DHZC), 13353, Berlin, Germany
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 13353, Berlin, Germany
- BIH Center for Regenerative Therapies (BCRT), Berlin Institute of Health at Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13353, Berlin, Germany
| | - Maximilian Y Emmert
- Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, Deutsches Herzzentrum der Charité (DHZC), 13353, Berlin, Germany.
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 13353, Berlin, Germany.
- BIH Center for Regenerative Therapies (BCRT), Berlin Institute of Health at Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13353, Berlin, Germany.
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Zurich, 8044, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Timo Z Nazari-Shafti
- Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, Deutsches Herzzentrum der Charité (DHZC), 13353, Berlin, Germany
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 13353, Berlin, Germany
- BIH Center for Regenerative Therapies (BCRT), Berlin Institute of Health at Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13353, Berlin, Germany
- BIH Biomedical Innovation Academy, BIH Charité (Junior) (Digital) Clinician Scientist Program, Berlin Institute of Health at Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13353, Berlin, Germany
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21
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Narum S, Deal B, Ogasawara H, Mancuso JN, Zhang J, Salaita K. An Endosomal Escape Trojan Horse Platform to Improve Cytosolic Delivery of Nucleic Acids. ACS NANO 2024; 18:6186-6201. [PMID: 38346399 PMCID: PMC10906071 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c09027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Endocytosis is a major bottleneck toward cytosolic delivery of nucleic acids, as the vast majority of nucleic acid drugs remain trapped within endosomes. Current trends to overcome endosomal entrapment and subsequent degradation provide varied success; however, active delivery agents such as cell-penetrating peptides have emerged as a prominent strategy to improve cytosolic delivery. Yet, these membrane-active agents have poor selectivity for endosomal membranes, leading to toxicity. A hallmark of endosomes is their acidic environment, which aids in degradation of foreign materials. Here, we develop a pH-triggered spherical nucleic acid that provides smart antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) release upon endosomal acidification and selective membrane disruption, termed DNA EndosomaL Escape Vehicle Response (DELVR). We anchor i-Motif DNA to a nanoparticle (AuNP), where the complement strand contains both an ASO sequence and a functionalized endosomal escape peptide (EEP). By orienting the EEP toward the AuNP core, the EEP is inactive until it is released through acidification-induced i-Motif folding. In this study, we characterize a small library of i-Motif duplexes to develop a structure-switching nucleic acid sequence triggered by endosomal acidification. We evaluate antisense efficacy using HIF1a, a hypoxic indicator upregulated in many cancers, and demonstrate dose-dependent activity through RT-qPCR. We show that DELVR significantly improves ASO efficacy in vitro. Finally, we use fluorescence lifetime imaging and activity measurement to show that DELVR benefits synergistically from nuclease- and pH-driven release strategies with increased ASO endosomal escape efficiency. Overall, this study develops a modular platform that improves the cytosolic delivery of nucleic acid therapeutics and offers key insights for overcoming intracellular barriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven Narum
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute
of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
| | - Brendan Deal
- Department
of Chemistry, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
| | - Hiroaki Ogasawara
- Department
of Chemistry, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
| | | | - Jiahui Zhang
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute
of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
| | - Khalid Salaita
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute
of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
- Department
of Chemistry, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
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22
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Valle-Garcia D, Pérez de la Cruz V, Flores I, Salazar A, Pineda B, Meza-Sosa KF. Use of microRNAs as Diagnostic, Prognostic, and Therapeutic Tools for Glioblastoma. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2464. [PMID: 38473710 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GB) is the most aggressive and common type of cancer within the central nervous system (CNS). Despite the vast knowledge of its physiopathology and histology, its etiology at the molecular level has not been completely understood. Thus, attaining a cure has not been possible yet and it remains one of the deadliest types of cancer. Usually, GB is diagnosed when some symptoms have already been presented by the patient. This diagnosis is commonly based on a physical exam and imaging studies, such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), together with or followed by a surgical biopsy. As these diagnostic procedures are very invasive and often result only in the confirmation of GB presence, it is necessary to develop less invasive diagnostic and prognostic tools that lead to earlier treatment to increase GB patients' quality of life. Therefore, blood-based biomarkers (BBBs) represent excellent candidates in this context. microRNAs (miRNAs) are small, non-coding RNAs that have been demonstrated to be very stable in almost all body fluids, including saliva, serum, plasma, urine, cerebrospinal fluid (CFS), semen, and breast milk. In addition, serum-circulating and exosome-contained miRNAs have been successfully used to better classify subtypes of cancer at the molecular level and make better choices regarding the best treatment for specific cases. Moreover, as miRNAs regulate multiple target genes and can also act as tumor suppressors and oncogenes, they are involved in the appearance, progression, and even chemoresistance of most tumors. Thus, in this review, we discuss how dysregulated miRNAs in GB can be used as early diagnosis and prognosis biomarkers as well as molecular markers to subclassify GB cases and provide more personalized treatments, which may have a better response against GB. In addition, we discuss the therapeutic potential of miRNAs, the current challenges to their clinical application, and future directions in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Valle-Garcia
- Laboratorio de Neuroinmunología, Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía Manuel Velasco Suárez (INNNMVS), Mexico City 14269, Mexico
| | - Verónica Pérez de la Cruz
- Laboratorio de Neurobioquímica y Conducta, Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía Manuel Velasco Suárez (INNNMVS), Mexico City 14269, Mexico
| | - Itamar Flores
- Laboratorio de Neuroinmunología, Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía Manuel Velasco Suárez (INNNMVS), Mexico City 14269, Mexico
| | - Aleli Salazar
- Laboratorio de Neuroinmunología, Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía Manuel Velasco Suárez (INNNMVS), Mexico City 14269, Mexico
| | - Benjamín Pineda
- Laboratorio de Neuroinmunología, Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía Manuel Velasco Suárez (INNNMVS), Mexico City 14269, Mexico
| | - Karla F Meza-Sosa
- Laboratorio de Neurobioquímica y Conducta, Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía Manuel Velasco Suárez (INNNMVS), Mexico City 14269, Mexico
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23
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Singh R, Ha SE, Park HS, Debnath S, Cho H, Baek G, Yu TY, Ro S. Sustained Effectiveness and Safety of Therapeutic miR-10a/b in Alleviating Diabetes and Gastrointestinal Dysmotility without Inducing Cancer or Inflammation in Murine Liver and Colon. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2266. [PMID: 38396943 PMCID: PMC10888952 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25042266] [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: 01/01/2024] [Revised: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
microRNAs (miRNAs) are key regulators of both physiological and pathophysiological mechanisms in diabetes and gastrointestinal (GI) dysmotility. Our previous studies have demonstrated the therapeutic potential of miR-10a-5p mimic and miR-10b-5p mimic (miR-10a/b mimics) in rescuing diabetes and GI dysmotility in murine models of diabetes. In this study, we elucidated the safety profile of a long-term treatment with miR-10a/b mimics in diabetic mice. Male C57BL/6 mice were fed a high-fat, high-sucrose diet (HFHSD) to induce diabetes and treated by five subcutaneous injections of miR-10a/b mimics for a 5 month period. We examined the long-term effects of the miRNA mimics on diabetes and GI dysmotility, including an assessment of potential risks for cancer and inflammation in the liver and colon using biomarkers. HFHSD-induced diabetic mice subcutaneously injected with miR-10a/b mimics on a monthly basis for 5 consecutive months exhibited a marked reduction in fasting blood glucose levels with restoration of insulin and significant weight loss, improved glucose and insulin intolerance, and restored GI transit time. In addition, the miR-10a/b mimic-treated diabetic mice showed no indication of risk for cancer development or inflammation induction in the liver, colon, and blood for 5 months post-injections. This longitudinal study demonstrates that miR-10a/b mimics, when subcutaneously administered in diabetic mice, effectively alleviate diabetes and GI dysmotility for 5 months with no discernible risk for cancer or inflammation in the liver and colon. The sustained efficacy and favorable safety profiles position miR-10a/b mimics as promising candidates in miRNA-based therapeutics for diabetes and GI dysmotility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajan Singh
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, School of Medicine, University of Nevada, Reno, NV 89557, USA; (R.S.); (S.E.H.); (H.S.P.); (S.D.); (H.C.); (G.B.); (T.Y.Y.)
| | - Se Eun Ha
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, School of Medicine, University of Nevada, Reno, NV 89557, USA; (R.S.); (S.E.H.); (H.S.P.); (S.D.); (H.C.); (G.B.); (T.Y.Y.)
| | - Han Sung Park
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, School of Medicine, University of Nevada, Reno, NV 89557, USA; (R.S.); (S.E.H.); (H.S.P.); (S.D.); (H.C.); (G.B.); (T.Y.Y.)
| | - Sushmita Debnath
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, School of Medicine, University of Nevada, Reno, NV 89557, USA; (R.S.); (S.E.H.); (H.S.P.); (S.D.); (H.C.); (G.B.); (T.Y.Y.)
| | - Hayeong Cho
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, School of Medicine, University of Nevada, Reno, NV 89557, USA; (R.S.); (S.E.H.); (H.S.P.); (S.D.); (H.C.); (G.B.); (T.Y.Y.)
| | - Gain Baek
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, School of Medicine, University of Nevada, Reno, NV 89557, USA; (R.S.); (S.E.H.); (H.S.P.); (S.D.); (H.C.); (G.B.); (T.Y.Y.)
| | - Tae Yang Yu
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, School of Medicine, University of Nevada, Reno, NV 89557, USA; (R.S.); (S.E.H.); (H.S.P.); (S.D.); (H.C.); (G.B.); (T.Y.Y.)
| | - Seungil Ro
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, School of Medicine, University of Nevada, Reno, NV 89557, USA; (R.S.); (S.E.H.); (H.S.P.); (S.D.); (H.C.); (G.B.); (T.Y.Y.)
- RosVivo Therapeutics, Applied Research Facility, 1664 N. Virginia St., Reno, NV 89557, USA
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24
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Moazzam M, Zhang M, Hussain A, Yu X, Huang J, Huang Y. The landscape of nanoparticle-based siRNA delivery and therapeutic development. Mol Ther 2024; 32:284-312. [PMID: 38204162 PMCID: PMC10861989 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2024.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 10/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Five small interfering RNA (siRNA)-based therapeutics have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), namely patisiran, givosiran, lumasiran, inclisiran, and vutrisiran. Besides, siRNA delivery to the target site without toxicity is a big challenge for researchers, and naked-siRNA delivery possesses several challenges, including membrane impermeability, enzymatic degradation, mononuclear phagocyte system (MPS) entrapment, fast renal excretion, endosomal escape, and off-target effects. The siRNA therapeutics can silence any disease-specific gene, but their intracellular and extracellular barriers limit their clinical applications. For this purpose, several modifications have been employed to siRNA for better transfection efficiency. Still, there is a quest for better delivery systems for siRNA delivery to the target site. In recent years, nanoparticles have shown promising results in siRNA delivery with minimum toxicity and off-target effects. Patisiran is a lipid nanoparticle (LNP)-based siRNA formulation for treating hereditary transthyretin-mediated amyloidosis that ultimately warrants the use of nanoparticles from different classes, especially lipid-based nanoparticles. These nanoparticles may belong to different categories, including lipid-based, polymer-based, and inorganic nanoparticles. This review briefly discusses the lipid, polymer, and inorganic nanoparticles and their sub-types for siRNA delivery. Finally, several clinical trials related to siRNA therapeutics are addressed, followed by the future prospects and conclusions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Moazzam
- Faculty of Engineering and Science, University of Greenwich, Medway Campus, Chatham Maritime, Kent ME4 4TB, UK
| | - Mengjie Zhang
- School of Life Science, Advanced Research Institute of Multidisciplinary Science, School of Medical Technology, Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Key Laboratory of Medical Molecule Science and Pharmaceutics Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Abid Hussain
- School of Life Science, Advanced Research Institute of Multidisciplinary Science, School of Medical Technology, Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Key Laboratory of Medical Molecule Science and Pharmaceutics Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Xiaotong Yu
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Medical Immunology of Ministry of Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China.
| | - Jia Huang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing 100029, China.
| | - Yuanyu Huang
- School of Life Science, Advanced Research Institute of Multidisciplinary Science, School of Medical Technology, Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Key Laboratory of Medical Molecule Science and Pharmaceutics Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China; Rigerna Therapeutics Co. Ltd., Suzhou 215127, China.
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25
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Gu YY, Liu XS, Lan HY. Therapeutic potential for renal fibrosis by targeting Smad3-dependent noncoding RNAs. Mol Ther 2024; 32:313-324. [PMID: 38093516 PMCID: PMC10861968 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2023.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Renal fibrosis is a characteristic hallmark of chronic kidney disease (CKD) that ultimately results in renal failure, leaving patients with few therapeutic options. TGF-β is a master regulator of renal fibrosis and mediates progressive renal fibrosis via both canonical and noncanonical signaling pathways. In the canonical Smad signaling, Smad3 is a key mediator in tissue fibrosis and mediates renal fibrosis via a number of noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs). In this regard, targeting Smad3-dependent ncRNAs may offer a specific therapy for renal fibrosis. This review highlights the significance and innovation of TGF-β/Smad3-associated ncRNAs as biomarkers and therapeutic targets in renal fibrogenesis. In addition, the underlying mechanisms of these ncRNAs and their future perspectives in the treatment of renal fibrosis are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue-Yu Gu
- State Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, Department of Nephrology, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China; Departments of Medicine and Therapeutics, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, and Lui Che Woo Institute of Innovative Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong; Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China; Departments of Nephrology and Pathology, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xu-Sheng Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, Department of Nephrology, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Hui-Yao Lan
- Departments of Medicine and Therapeutics, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, and Lui Che Woo Institute of Innovative Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong; Departments of Nephrology and Pathology, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
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26
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Chen SP, Blakney AK. Immune response to the components of lipid nanoparticles for ribonucleic acid therapeutics. Curr Opin Biotechnol 2024; 85:103049. [PMID: 38118363 DOI: 10.1016/j.copbio.2023.103049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/22/2023]
Abstract
Ribonucleic acid therapeutics have advantages over biologics and small molecules, including lower safety risks, cheaper costs, and extensive targeting flexibility, which is rapidly fueling the expansion of the field. This is made possible by breakthroughs in the field of drug delivery, wherein lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) are one of the most clinically advanced systems. LNP formulations that are currently approved for clinical use typically contain an ionizable cationic lipid, a phospholipid, cholesterol, and a polyethylene glycol-lipid; each contributes to the stability and/or effectiveness of LNPs. In this review, we discuss the immunomodulatory effects associated with each of the lipid components. We highlight several studies in which the components of LNPs have been implicated in cellular sensing and explore the pathways involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunny P Chen
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver V6T 1Z3, Canada; Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia, Vancouver V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Anna K Blakney
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver V6T 1Z3, Canada; Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia, Vancouver V6T 1Z4, Canada.
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27
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Kazmi I, Altamimi ASA, Afzal M, Majami AA, AlGhamdi AS, Alkinani KB, Abbasi FA, Almalki WH, Alzera SI, Kukreti N, Fuloria NK, Sekar M, Abida. The emerging role of non-coding RNAs in the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in Prostate Cancer. Pathol Res Pract 2024; 254:155134. [PMID: 38277746 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2024.155134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024]
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PCa) is an important worldwide medical concern, necessitating a greater understanding of the molecular processes driving its development. The Wnt/-catenin signaling cascade is established as a central player in PCa pathogenesis, and recent research emphasizes the critical involvement of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) in this scenario. This in-depth study seeks to give a thorough examination of the complex relationship between ncRNAs and the Wnt/β-catenin system in PCa. NcRNAs, such as circular RNAs (circRNAs), long ncRNAs (lncRNAs), and microRNAs (miRNAs), have been recognized as essential regulators that modulate numerous facets of the Wnt/β-catenin network. MiRNAs have been recognized as targeting vital elements of the process, either enhancing or inhibiting signaling, depending on their specific roles and targets. LncRNAs participate in fine-tuning the Wnt/β-catenin network as a result of complicated interplay with both upstream and downstream elements. CircRNAs, despite being a relatively recent addition to the ncRNA family, have been implicated in PCa, influencing the Wnt/β-catenin cascade through diverse mechanisms. This article encompasses recent advances in our comprehension of specific ncRNAs that participate in the Wnt/β-catenin network, their functional roles, and clinical relevance in PCa. We investigate their use as screening and predictive indicators, and targets for treatment. Additionally, we delve into the interplay between Wnt/β-catenin and other signaling networks in PCa and the role of ncRNAs within this complex network. As we unveil the intricate regulatory functions of ncRNAs in the Wnt/β-catenin cascade in PCa, we gain valuable insights into the disease's pathogenesis. The implementation of these discoveries in practical applications holds promise for more precise diagnosis, prognosis, and targeted therapeutic approaches, ultimately enhancing the care of PCa patients. This comprehensive review underscores the evolving landscape of ncRNA research in PCa and the potential for innovative interventions in the battle against this formidable malignancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imran Kazmi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, 21589, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Muhammad Afzal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmacy Program, Batterjee Medical College, P.O. Box 6231, Jeddah 21442, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah A Majami
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, 21589, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abeer S AlGhamdi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, 21589, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Khadijah B Alkinani
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, 21589, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Umm Al-Qura University, 21955 Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fahad Al Abbasi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, 21589, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Waleed Hassan Almalki
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sami I Alzera
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, 72341, Sakaka, Aljouf, Saudi Arabia
| | - Neelima Kukreti
- School of Pharmacy, Graphic Era Hill University, Dehradun 248007, India
| | | | - Mahendran Sekar
- School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway, Subang Jaya 47500, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Abida
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Northern Border University, Rafha 91911, Saudi Arabia
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28
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Nguyen TT, Nguyen Thi YV, Chu DT. RNA therapeutics: Molecular mechanisms, and potential clinical translations. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2024; 203:65-82. [PMID: 38360006 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2023.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
RNA therapies involve the utilization of natural and artificial RNA molecules to control the expression and function of cellular genes and proteins. Initializing from 1990s, RNA therapies now show the rapid growth in the development and application of RNA therapeutics for treating various conditions, especially for undruggable diseases. The outstanding success of recent mRNA vaccines against COVID-19 infection again highlighted the important role of RNA therapies in future medicine. In this review, we will first briefly provide the crucial investigations on RNA therapy, from the first pieces of discovery on RNA molecules to clinical applications of RNA therapeutics. We will then classify the mechanisms of RNA therapeutics from various classes in the treatment of diseases. To emphasize the huge potential of RNA therapies, we also provide the key RNA products that have been on clinical trials or already FDA-approved. With comprehensive knowledge on RNA biology, and the advances in analysis, technology and computer-aid science, RNA therapies can bring a promise to be more expanding to the market in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiep Tien Nguyen
- Center for Biomedicine and Community Health, International School, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam; Epibiotech Co. Ltd., Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Yen Vi Nguyen Thi
- Center for Biomedicine and Community Health, International School, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam; Faculty of Applied Sciences, International School, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Dinh-Toi Chu
- Center for Biomedicine and Community Health, International School, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam; Faculty of Applied Sciences, International School, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam.
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29
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Goleij P, Babamohamadi M, Rezaee A, Sanaye PM, Tabari MAK, Sadreddini S, Arefnezhad R, Motedayyen H. Types of RNA therapeutics. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2024; 203:41-63. [PMID: 38360005 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2023.12.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
RNA therapy is one of the new treatments using small RNA molecules to target and regulate gene expression. It involves the application of synthetic or modified RNA molecules to inhibit the expression of disease-causing genes specifically. In other words, it silences genes and suppresses the transcription process. The main theory behind RNA therapy is that RNA molecules can prevent the translation into proteins by binding to specific messenger RNA (mRNA) molecules. By targeting disease-related mRNA molecules, RNA therapy can effectively silence or reduce the development of harmful proteins. There are different types of RNA molecules used in therapy, including small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), microRNAs (miRNAs), aptamer, ribozyme, and antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs). These molecules are designed to complement specific mRNA sequences, allowing them to bind and degrade the targeted mRNA or prevent its translation into protein. Nanotechnology is also highlighted to increase the efficacy of RNA-based drugs. In this chapter, while examining various methods of RNA therapy, we discuss the advantages and challenges of each.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pouya Goleij
- Department of Genetics, Sana Institute of Higher Education, Sari, Iran; USERN Office, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Mehregan Babamohamadi
- USERN Office, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran; Department of Biology, School of Natural Sciences, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran; Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Innovation Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Aryan Rezaee
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Mohammad Amin Khazeei Tabari
- Student Research Committee, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran; USERN Office, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Sarvin Sadreddini
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Reza Arefnezhad
- Coenzyme R Research Institute, Tehran, Iran; Student Research Committee, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
| | - Hossein Motedayyen
- Autoimmune Diseases Research Center, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran.
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30
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Thi HV, Thi LAN, Tang TL, Chu DT. Biosafety and regulatory issues of RNA therapeutics. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2024; 204:311-329. [PMID: 38458742 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2023.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
RNA therapy has recently emerged as a therapy targeting specific genes or proteins. With its outstanding advantages, this therapy has opened promising doors for treating and preventing diseases. The great application potential has driven the need for a comprehensive understanding of these therapies, particularly on biosafety and regulatory issues. This chapter began by discussing the risks to RNA therapy, such as off-target effects, immunogenicity and immune responses, and long-term effects. Since then, this therapy's intricate landscape of biosafety issues has been elucidated. Common biosecurity measures applied around the world have also been reviewed. In addition, this chapter emphasized the importance of regulations and laws in applying RNA therapy to prevent and treat human and animal diseases. At the same time, the current legal regulations in the world for RNA therapies have also been thoroughly discussed. To sum up, this chapter has provided a comprehensive perspective on biosafety and regulatory issues for developing RNA therapies. Understanding the biosafety and regulatory issues in RNA therapy can help researchers use this promising new technology safely and effectively in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hue Vu Thi
- Center for Biomedicine and Community Health, International School, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam; Faculty of Applied Sciences, International School, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Lan-Anh Nguyen Thi
- Center for Biomedicine and Community Health, International School, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Thuy Linh Tang
- Center for Biomedicine and Community Health, International School, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Dinh-Toi Chu
- Center for Biomedicine and Community Health, International School, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam; Faculty of Applied Sciences, International School, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam.
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31
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Nguyen L. RNA therapeutics for neurological disease. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2024; 203:165-180. [PMID: 38359997 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2024.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Neurological disorders are the group of diseases that primarily affect the center nervous system, which could lead to a significant negative impact on the ability of learning new skills, speaking, breathing, walking, judging, making decision, and other essential living skills. In the last decade, neurological disorders have significantly increased their impact to our community and become the one of leading causes of disability and death. The World Health Organization has identified neurological disorders including Alzheimer's disease and other dementia as the health crisis for the modern life. Tremendous ongoing research efforts focus on understanding of disease genetics, molecular mechanisms and developing therapeutic interventions. Because of the urgent need of the effective therapeutics and the recent advances in the toolkits and understanding for developing more drug-like RNA molecules, there is a growing interest for developing RNA therapeutics for neurological disorders. This article will discuss genetics and mechanisms of neurological disorders and how RNA-based molecules have been used to develop therapeutics for this group of diseases, challenges of RNA therapeutics and future perspectives on this rising therapeutic intervention tool.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lien Nguyen
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Center for NeuroGenetics, University of Florida, Cancer Genetics Research Complex (CGRC), Gainesville, FL, United States.
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32
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Jones CH, Androsavich JR, So N, Jenkins MP, MacCormack D, Prigodich A, Welch V, True JM, Dolsten M. Breaking the mold with RNA-a "RNAissance" of life science. NPJ Genom Med 2024; 9:2. [PMID: 38195675 PMCID: PMC10776758 DOI: 10.1038/s41525-023-00387-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024] Open
Abstract
In the past decade, RNA therapeutics have gone from being a promising concept to one of the most exciting frontiers in healthcare and pharmaceuticals. The field is now entering what many call a renaissance or "RNAissance" which is being fueled by advances in genetic engineering and delivery systems to take on more ambitious development efforts. However, this renaissance is occurring at an unprecedented pace, which will require a different way of thinking if the field is to live up to its full potential. Recognizing this need, this article will provide a forward-looking perspective on the field of RNA medical products and the potential long-term innovations and policy shifts enabled by this revolutionary and game-changing technological platform.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Nina So
- Pfizer, 66 Hudson Boulevard, New York, NY, 10018, USA
| | | | | | | | - Verna Welch
- Pfizer, 66 Hudson Boulevard, New York, NY, 10018, USA
| | - Jane M True
- Pfizer, 66 Hudson Boulevard, New York, NY, 10018, USA.
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33
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Vuong HL, Lan CT, Le HTT. The development and technologies of RNA therapeutics. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2024; 203:13-39. [PMID: 38359995 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2023.12.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Since it was discovered for over 20 years ago, the potentiality of siRNAs in gene silencing in vitro and in vivo models has been recognized. Several studies in the new generation, molecular mechanisms, target attachment, and purification of RNA have supported the development of RNA therapeutics for a variety of applications. RNA therapeutics are growing rapidly with various platforms contributing to the standard of personalized medicine and rare disease treatment. Therefore, understanding the development and technologies of RNA therapeutics becomes a crucial point for new drug generation. Here, the primary purpose of this review is to provide a general view of six therapeutic categories that make up RNA-based therapeutic approaches, including RNA-target therapeutics, protein-targeted therapeutics, cellular reprogramming and tissues engineering, RNA-based protein replacement therapeutics, RNA-based genome editing, and RNA-based immunotherapies based on non-coding RNAs and coding RNA. Furthermore, we present an overview of the RNA strategies regarding viral approaches and nonviral approaches in designing a new generation of RNA technologies. The advantages and challenges of using RNA therapeutics are also discussed along with various approaches for RNA delivery. Therefore, this review is designed to provide updated reference evidence of RNA therapeutics in the battle against rare or difficult-to-treat diseases for researchers in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huong Lan Vuong
- Pharmacy Department, National Hospital for Tropical Diseases, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Chu Thanh Lan
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Tissue Regeneration, College of Medicine, Soonchunghyang University, South Korea
| | - Hien Thi Thu Le
- Intestinal Signaling and Epigenetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland.
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34
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Guo S, Zhang M, Huang Y. Three 'E' challenges for siRNA drug development. Trends Mol Med 2024; 30:13-24. [PMID: 37951790 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2023.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
siRNA therapeutics have gained extensive attention, and to date six siRNAs are approved for clinical use. Despite being investigated for the treatment of metabolic, cardiovascular, infectious, and rare genetic diseases, cancer, and central nervous system (CNS) disorders, there exist several druggability challenges. Here, we provide insightful discussions concerning these challenges, comprising targeted accumulation and cellular uptake ('entry'), endolysosomal escape ('escape'), and in vivo pharmaceutical performance ('efficacy') - the three 'E' challenges - while also shedding light on siRNA drug development. Moreover, we propose several promising strategies that hold great potential in facilitating the clinical translation of siRNA therapeutics, including the exploration of diverse ligand-siRNA conjugates, expansion of potential disease targets, and excavation of novel modification geometries, as well as the development of combination therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Guo
- School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China; Advanced Research Institute of Multidisciplinary Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China; Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Mengjie Zhang
- School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China; Advanced Research Institute of Multidisciplinary Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China; Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Yuanyu Huang
- School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China; Advanced Research Institute of Multidisciplinary Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China; Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China; Key Laboratory of Medical Molecule Science and Pharmaceutics Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China; Rigerna Therapeutics, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215127, China; Rigerna Therapeutics, Beijing 102629, China.
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35
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Tafech B, Mohabatpour F, Hedtrich S. Surface modification of lipid nanoparticles for gene therapy. J Gene Med 2024; 26:e3642. [PMID: 38043928 DOI: 10.1002/jgm.3642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Gene therapies have the potential to target and effectively treat a variety of diseases including cancer as well as genetic, neurological, and autoimmune disorders. Although we have made significant advances in identifying non-viral strategies to deliver genetic cargo, certain limitations remain. In general, gene delivery is challenging for several reasons including the instabilities of nucleic acids to enzymatic and chemical degradation and the presence of restrictive biological barriers such as cell, endosomal and nuclear membranes. The emergence of lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) helped overcome many of these challenges. Despite its success, further optimization is required for LNPs to yield efficient gene delivery to extrahepatic tissues, as LNPs favor accumulation in the liver after systemic administration. In this mini-review, we provide an overview of current preclinical approaches in that LNP surface modification was leveraged for cell and tissue targeting by conjugating aptamers, antibodies, and peptides among others. In addition to their cell uptake and efficiency-enhancing effects, we outline the (dis-)advantages of the different targeting moieties and commonly used conjugation strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Belal Tafech
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Fatemeh Mohabatpour
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Sarah Hedtrich
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Center of Biological Design, Berlin Institute of Health at Charité, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Respiratory Medicine, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Max-Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, Berlin, Germany
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36
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Gogate A, Belcourt J, Shah M, Wang AZ, Frankel A, Kolmel H, Chalon M, Stephen P, Kolli A, Tawfik SM, Jin J, Bahal R, Rasmussen TP, Manautou JE, Zhong XB. Targeting the Liver with Nucleic Acid Therapeutics for the Treatment of Systemic Diseases of Liver Origin. Pharmacol Rev 2023; 76:49-89. [PMID: 37696583 PMCID: PMC10753797 DOI: 10.1124/pharmrev.123.000815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic diseases of liver origin (SDLO) are complex diseases in multiple organ systems, such as cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, endocrine, renal, respiratory, and sensory organ systems, caused by irregular liver metabolism and production of functional factors. Examples of such diseases discussed in this article include primary hyperoxaluria, familial hypercholesterolemia, acute hepatic porphyria, hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis, hemophilia, atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases, α-1 antitrypsin deficiency-associated liver disease, and complement-mediated diseases. Nucleic acid therapeutics use nucleic acids and related compounds as therapeutic agents to alter gene expression for therapeutic purposes. The two most promising, fastest-growing classes of nucleic acid therapeutics are antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) and small interfering RNAs (siRNAs). For each listed SDLO disease, this article discusses epidemiology, symptoms, genetic causes, current treatment options, and advantages and disadvantages of nucleic acid therapeutics by either ASO or siRNA drugs approved or under development. Furthermore, challenges and future perspectives on adverse drug reactions and toxicity of ASO and siRNA drugs for the treatment of SDLO diseases are also discussed. In summary, this review article will highlight the clinical advantages of nucleic acid therapeutics in targeting the liver for the treatment of SDLO diseases. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Systemic diseases of liver origin (SDLO) contain rare and common complex diseases caused by irregular functions of the liver. Nucleic acid therapeutics have shown promising clinical advantages to treat SDLO. This article aims to provide the most updated information on targeting the liver with antisense oligonucleotides and small interfering RNA drugs. The generated knowledge may stimulate further investigations in this growing field of new therapeutic entities for the treatment of SDLO, which currently have no or limited options for treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anagha Gogate
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut
| | - Jordyn Belcourt
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut
| | - Milan Shah
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut
| | - Alicia Zongxun Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut
| | - Alexis Frankel
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut
| | - Holly Kolmel
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut
| | - Matthew Chalon
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut
| | - Prajith Stephen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut
| | - Aarush Kolli
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut
| | - Sherouk M Tawfik
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut
| | - Jing Jin
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut
| | - Raman Bahal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut
| | - Theodore P Rasmussen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut
| | - José E Manautou
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut
| | - Xiao-Bo Zhong
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut
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Zhang J, Chen B, Gan C, Sun H, Zhang J, Feng L. A Comprehensive Review of Small Interfering RNAs (siRNAs): Mechanism, Therapeutic Targets, and Delivery Strategies for Cancer Therapy. Int J Nanomedicine 2023; 18:7605-7635. [PMID: 38106451 PMCID: PMC10725753 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s436038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Small interfering RNA (siRNA) delivery by nanocarriers has been identified as a promising strategy in the study and treatment of cancer. Short nucleotide sequences are synthesized exogenously to create siRNA, which triggers RNA interference (RNAi) in cells and silences target gene expression in a sequence-specific way. As a nucleic acid-based medicine that has gained popularity recently, siRNA exhibits novel potential for the treatment of cancer. However, there are still many obstacles to overcome before clinical siRNA delivery devices can be developed. In this review, we discuss prospective targets for siRNA drug design, explain siRNA drug properties and benefits, and give an overview of the current clinical siRNA therapeutics for the treatment of cancer. Additionally, we introduce the siRNA chemical modifications and delivery systems that are clinically sophisticated and classify bioresponsive materials for siRNA release in a methodical manner. This review will serve as a reference for researchers in developing more precise and efficient targeted delivery systems, promoting ongoing advances in clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaying Zhang
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Beihang University, Beijing, 100191, People’s Republic of China
| | - Bo Chen
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Beihang University, Beijing, 100191, People’s Republic of China
| | - Chunyuan Gan
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Beihang University, Beijing, 100191, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hongyan Sun
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Beihang University, Beijing, 100191, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jiaxin Zhang
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lin Feng
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Beihang University, Beijing, 100191, People’s Republic of China
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, 100191, People’s Republic of China
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Zhou Y, Zhou X, Ben Q, Liu N, Wang J, Zhai Y, Bao Y, Zhou L. GATA6-AS1 suppresses epithelial-mesenchymal transition of pancreatic cancer under hypoxia through regulating SNAI1 mRNA stability. J Transl Med 2023; 21:882. [PMID: 38057853 PMCID: PMC10698911 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04757-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is characterized by a hypoxic microenvironment, a high rate of heterogeneity as well as a high likelihood of recurrence. Mounting evidence has affirmed that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) participate in the carcinogenesis of PDAC cells. In this study, we revealed significantly decreased expression of GATA6-AS1 in PDAC based on the GEO dataset and our cohorts, and showed that low GATA6-AS1 expression was linked to unfavorable clinicopathologic characteristics as well as a poor prognosis. Gain- and loss-of-function studies demonstrated that GATA6-AS1 suppressed the proliferation, invasion, migration, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process of PDAC cells under hypoxia. In vivo data confirm the suppressive roles of GATA6-AS1/SNAI1 in tumor growth and lung metastasis of PDAC. Mechanistically, hypoxia-driven E26 transformation-specific sequence-1 (ETS1), as an upstream modulatory mechanism, was essential for the downregulation of GATA6-AS1 in PDAC cells. GATA6-AS1 inhibited the expression of fat mass and obesity-associated protein (FTO), an N6-methyladenosine (m6A) eraser, and repressed SNAI1 mRNA stability in an m6A-dependent manner. Our data suggested that GATA6-AS1 can inhibit PDAC cell proliferation, invasion, migration, EMT process and metastasis under hypoxia, and disrupting the GATA6-AS1/FTO/SNAI1 axis might be a viable therapeutic approach for refractory hypoxic pancreatic cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunhui Zhou
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, No. 1, Jianshe East Road, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Xinyi Zhou
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, No. 1, Jianshe East Road, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Qiwen Ben
- Department of Gastroenterology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Ningning Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, No. 1, Jianshe East Road, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Jiahui Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, No. 1, Jianshe East Road, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Yongpeng Zhai
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, No. 1, Jianshe East Road, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Yichen Bao
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, No. 1, Jianshe East Road, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Lin Zhou
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, No. 1, Jianshe East Road, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.
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Shukri AH, Lukinović V, Charih F, Biggar KK. Unraveling the battle for lysine: A review of the competition among post-translational modifications. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. GENE REGULATORY MECHANISMS 2023; 1866:194990. [PMID: 37748678 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagrm.2023.194990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
Proteins play a critical role as key regulators in various biological systems, influencing crucial processes such as gene expression, cell cycle progression, and cellular proliferation. However, the functions of proteins can be further modified through post-translational modifications (PTMs), which expand their roles and contribute to disease progression when dysregulated. In this review, we delve into the methodologies employed for the characterization of PTMs, shedding light on the techniques and tools utilized to help unravel their complexity. Furthermore, we explore the prevalence of crosstalk and competition that occurs between different types of PTMs, specifically focusing on both histone and non-histone proteins. The intricate interplay between different modifications adds an additional layer of regulation to protein function and cellular processes. To gain insights into the competition for lysine residues among various modifications, computational systems such as MethylSight have been developed, allowing for a comprehensive analysis of the modification landscape. Additionally, we provide an overview of the exciting developments in the field of inhibitors or drugs targeting PTMs, highlighting their potential in combatting prevalent diseases. The discovery and development of drugs that modulate PTMs present promising avenues for therapeutic interventions, offering new strategies to address complex diseases. As research progresses in this rapidly evolving field, we anticipate remarkable advancements in our understanding of PTMs and their roles in health and disease, ultimately paving the way for innovative treatment approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali H Shukri
- Institute of Biochemistry and Department of Biology, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Valentina Lukinović
- Institute of Biochemistry and Department of Biology, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - François Charih
- Institute of Biochemistry and Department of Biology, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, Canada; Department of Systems and Computer Engineering, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Kyle K Biggar
- Institute of Biochemistry and Department of Biology, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, Canada.
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dos Santos SN, Junior DSG, Pereira JPM, Iadocicco NM, Silva AH, do Nascimento T, Dias LAP, de Oliveira Silva FR, Ricci-Junior E, Santos-Oliveira R, Bernardes ES. Development of glycan-targeted nanoparticles as a novel therapeutic opportunity for gastric cancer treatment. Cancer Nanotechnol 2023. [DOI: 10.1186/s12645-023-00161-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
AbstractChemotherapy resistance remains a major cause of therapeutic failure in gastric cancer. The combination of genetic material such as interference RNAs (iRNAs) to silence cancer-associated genes with chemotherapeutics has become a novel approach for cancer treatment. However, finding the right target genes and developing non-toxic, highly selective nanocarrier systems remains a challenge. Here we developed a novel sialyl-Tn-targeted polylactic acid—didodecyldimethylammonium bromide nanoparticle (PLA-DDAB) nanoparticles (NPs) loaded with dsRNA targeting ST6GalNac-I and/or galectin-3 genes. Using single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), we have demonstrated that 99mtechnetium radiolabeled sialyl-Tn-targeted nanoparticles can reach the tumor site and downregulate ST6GalNAc-I and galectin-3 RNA expression levels when injected intravenously. Furthermore, using an in vivo gastric tumor model, these nanoparticles increased the effectiveness of 5-FU in reducing tumor growth. Our findings indicate that cancer-associated glycan-targeted NPs loaded with dsRNA targeting ST6GalNAc-I and/or galectin-3 in combination with standard chemotherapy, have the potential to become a novel therapeutic tool for gastric cancer.
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Pfeifer BA, Beitelshees M, Hill A, Bassett J, Jones CH. Harnessing synthetic biology for advancing RNA therapeutics and vaccine design. NPJ Syst Biol Appl 2023; 9:60. [PMID: 38036580 PMCID: PMC10689799 DOI: 10.1038/s41540-023-00323-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent global events have drawn into focus the diversity of options for combatting disease across a spectrum of prophylactic and therapeutic approaches. The recent success of the mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccines has paved the way for RNA-based treatments to revolutionize the pharmaceutical industry. However, historical treatment options are continuously updated and reimagined in the context of novel technical developments, such as those facilitated through the application of synthetic biology. When it comes to the development of genetic forms of therapies and vaccines, synthetic biology offers diverse tools and approaches to influence the content, dosage, and breadth of treatment with the prospect of economic advantage provided in time and cost benefits. This can be achieved by utilizing the broad tools within this discipline to enhance the functionality and efficacy of pharmaceutical agent sequences. This review will describe how synthetic biology principles can augment RNA-based treatments through optimizing not only the vaccine antigen, therapeutic construct, therapeutic activity, and delivery vector. The enhancement of RNA vaccine technology through implementing synthetic biology has the potential to shape the next generation of vaccines and therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blaine A Pfeifer
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | | | - Andrew Hill
- Pfizer, 66 Hudson Boulevard, New York, NY, 10001, USA
| | - Justin Bassett
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
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Weidle UH, Nopora A. Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Up-regulated Circular RNAs Which Mediate Efficacy in Preclinical In Vivo Models. Cancer Genomics Proteomics 2023; 20:500-521. [PMID: 37889063 PMCID: PMC10614070 DOI: 10.21873/cgp.20401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) ranges as number two with respect to the incidence of tumors and is associated with a dismal prognosis. The therapeutic efficacy of approved multi-tyrosine kinase inhibitors and checkpoint inhibitors is modest. Therefore, the identification of new therapeutic targets and entities is of paramount importance. We searched the literature for up-regulated circular RNAs (circRNAs) which mediate efficacy in preclinical in vivo models of HCC. Our search resulted in 14 circRNAs which up-regulate plasma membrane transmembrane receptors, while 5 circRNAs induced secreted proteins. Two circRNAs facilitated replication of Hepatitis B or C viruses. Three circRNAs up-regulated high mobility group proteins. Six circRNAs regulated components of the ubiquitin system. Seven circRNAs induced GTPases of the family of ras-associated binding proteins (RABs). Three circRNAs induced redox-related proteins, eight of them up-regulated metabolic enzymes and nine circRNAs induced signaling-related proteins. The identified circRNAs up-regulate the corresponding targets by sponging microRNAs. Identified circRNAs and their targets have to be validated by standard criteria of preclinical drug development. Identified targets can potentially be inhibited by small molecules or antibody-based moieties and circRNAs can be inhibited by small-interfering RNAs (siRNAs) or short hairpin RNAs (shRNAs) for therapeutic purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrich H Weidle
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Munich, Penzberg, Germany
| | - Adam Nopora
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Munich, Penzberg, Germany
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Zhang B, Li J, Jiang J, Lin X, Sun X, Wang Q. Overcoming delivery barriers for RNA therapeutics in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Eur J Pharm Biopharm 2023; 192:147-160. [PMID: 37844708 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2023.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
RNA therapeutics can manipulate gene expression or protein production, making them suitable for treating a wide range of diseases. Theoretically, any disease that has a definite biological target would probably find feasible therapeutic approach from RNA-based therapeutics. Numerous clinical trials using RNA therapeutics fighting against cancer, infectious diseases or inherited diseases have been reported and achieved desirable therapeutic efficacy. So far, encouraging findings from various animal experimental studies have also confirmed the great potential of RNA-based therapies in the treatment of rheumatic arthritis (RA). However, the in vivo multiple physiological barriers still seriously compromise the therapeutic efficacy of RNA drugs. Thus, safe and effective delivery strategies for RNA therapeutics are quite essential for their further and wide application in RA therapy. In this review, we will discuss the recent progress achieved using RNA-based therapeutics and focus on delivery strategies that can overcome the in vivo delivery barriers in RA treatment. Furthermore, discussion about the existing problems in current RNA delivery systems for RA therapy has been also included here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Technologies of Materials, Ministry of Education and School of Materials Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China
| | - Jiao Li
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Technologies of Materials, Ministry of Education and School of Materials Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China
| | - Jiayu Jiang
- Patent Examination Cooperation Sichuan Center of the Patent office, Chengdu 610213, China
| | - Xin Lin
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Technologies of Materials, Ministry of Education and School of Materials Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China
| | - Xun Sun
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Qin Wang
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, College of Medicine, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China.
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McLoughlin NM, Albers MA, Collado Camps E, Paulus J, Ran YA, Neubacher S, Hennig S, Brock R, Grossmann TN. Environment-Responsive Peptide Dimers Bind and Stabilize Double-Stranded RNA. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2023; 62:e202308028. [PMID: 37603459 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202308028] [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: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 08/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023]
Abstract
Double-stranded RNAs (dsRNA) possess immense potential for biomedical applications. However, their therapeutic utility is limited by low stability and poor cellular uptake. Different strategies have been explored to enhance the stability of dsRNA, including the incorporation of modified nucleotides, and the use of diverse carrier systems. Nevertheless, these have not resulted in a broadly applicable approach thereby preventing the wide-spread application of dsRNA for therapeutic purposes. Herein, we report the design of dimeric stapled peptides based on the RNA-binding protein TAV2b. These dimers are obtained via disulfide formation and mimic the natural TAV2b assembly. They bind and stabilize dsRNA in the presence of serum, protecting it from degradation. In addition, peptide binding also promotes cellular uptake of dsRNA. Importantly, peptide dimers monomerize under reducing conditions which results in a loss of RNA binding. These findings highlight the potential of peptide-based RNA binders for the stabilization and protection of dsRNA, representing an appealing strategy towards the environment-triggered release of RNA. This can broaden the applicability of dsRNA, such as short interfering RNAs (siRNA), for therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niall M McLoughlin
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, VU University Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1108, 1081 HZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute of Molecular and Life Sciences, VU University Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1108, 1081 HZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marvin A Albers
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, VU University Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1108, 1081 HZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute of Molecular and Life Sciences, VU University Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1108, 1081 HZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Estel Collado Camps
- Department of Medical BioSciences, Radboud University, Nijmegen Medical Center, 6525 GA, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Jannik Paulus
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, VU University Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1108, 1081 HZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute of Molecular and Life Sciences, VU University Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1108, 1081 HZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Youri A Ran
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, VU University Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1108, 1081 HZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Saskia Neubacher
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, VU University Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1108, 1081 HZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute of Molecular and Life Sciences, VU University Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1108, 1081 HZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Incircular B.V., De Boelelaan 1108, 1081 HZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sven Hennig
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, VU University Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1108, 1081 HZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute of Molecular and Life Sciences, VU University Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1108, 1081 HZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Roland Brock
- Department of Medical BioSciences, Radboud University, Nijmegen Medical Center, 6525 GA, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, College of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Arabian Gulf University, Manama, 293, Bahrain
| | - Tom N Grossmann
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, VU University Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1108, 1081 HZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute of Molecular and Life Sciences, VU University Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1108, 1081 HZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Theisen B, Holtz A, Rajagopalan V. Noncoding RNAs and Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Cardiomyocytes in Cardiac Arrhythmic Brugada Syndrome. Cells 2023; 12:2398. [PMID: 37830612 PMCID: PMC10571919 DOI: 10.3390/cells12192398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Hundreds of thousands of people die each year as a result of sudden cardiac death, and many are due to heart rhythm disorders. One of the major causes of these arrhythmic events is Brugada syndrome, a cardiac channelopathy that results in abnormal cardiac conduction, severe life-threatening arrhythmias, and, on many occasions, death. This disorder has been associated with mutations and dysfunction of about two dozen genes; however, the majority of the patients do not have a definite cause for the diagnosis of Brugada Syndrome. The protein-coding genes represent only a very small fraction of the mammalian genome, and the majority of the noncoding regions of the genome are actively transcribed. Studies have shown that most of the loci associated with electrophysiological traits are located in noncoding regulatory regions and are expected to affect gene expression dosage and cardiac ion channel function. Noncoding RNAs serve an expanding number of regulatory and other functional roles within the cells, including but not limited to transcriptional, post-transcriptional, and epigenetic regulation. The major noncoding RNAs found in Brugada Syndrome include microRNAs; however, others such as long noncoding RNAs are also identified. They contribute to pathogenesis by interacting with ion channels and/or are detectable as clinical biomarkers. Stem cells have received significant attention in the recent past, and can be differentiated into many different cell types including those in the heart. In addition to contractile and relaxational properties, BrS-relevant electrophysiological phenotypes are also demonstrated in cardiomyocytes differentiated from stem cells induced from adult human cells. In this review, we discuss the current understanding of noncoding regions of the genome and their RNA biology in Brugada Syndrome. We also delve into the role of stem cells, especially human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiac differentiated cells, in the investigation of Brugada syndrome in preclinical and clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Theisen
- Department of Biomedical and Anatomical Sciences, New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine at Arkansas State University, Jonesboro, AR 72401, USA
| | - Austin Holtz
- Department of Biomedical and Anatomical Sciences, New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine at Arkansas State University, Jonesboro, AR 72401, USA
| | - Viswanathan Rajagopalan
- Department of Biomedical and Anatomical Sciences, New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine at Arkansas State University, Jonesboro, AR 72401, USA
- Arkansas Biosciences Institute, Jonesboro, AR 72401, USA
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Zogg H, Singh R, Ha SE, Wang Z, Jin B, Ha M, Dafinone M, Batalon T, Hoberg N, Poudrier S, Nguyen L, Yan W, Layden BT, Dugas LR, Sanders KM, Ro S. miR-10b-5p rescues leaky gut linked with gastrointestinal dysmotility and diabetes. United European Gastroenterol J 2023; 11:750-766. [PMID: 37723933 PMCID: PMC10576606 DOI: 10.1002/ueg2.12463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIM Diabetes has substantive co-occurrence with disorders of gut-brain interactions (DGBIs). The pathophysiological and molecular mechanisms linking diabetes and DGBIs are unclear. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are key regulators of diabetes and gut dysmotility. We investigated whether impaired gut barrier function is regulated by a key miRNA, miR-10b-5p, linking diabetes and gut dysmotility. METHODS We created a new mouse line using the Mb3Cas12a/Mb3Cpf1 endonuclease to delete mir-10b globally. Loss of function studies in the mir-10b knockout (KO) mice were conducted to characterize diabetes, gut dysmotility, and gut barrier dysfunction phenotypes in these mice. Gain of function studies were conducted by injecting these mir-10b KO mice with a miR-10b-5p mimic. Further, we performed miRNA-sequencing analysis from colonic mucosa from mir-10b KO, wild type, and miR-10b-5p mimic injected mice to confirm (1) deficiency of miR-10b-5p in KO mice, and (2) restoration of miR-10b-5p after the mimic injection. RESULTS Congenital loss of mir-10b in mice led to the development of hyperglycemia, gut dysmotility, and gut barrier dysfunction. Gut permeability was increased, but expression of the tight junction protein Zonula occludens-1 was reduced in the colon of mir-10b KO mice. Patients with diabetes or constipation- predominant irritable bowel syndrome, a known DGBI that is linked to leaky gut, had significantly reduced miR-10b-5p expression. Injection of a miR-10b-5p mimic in mir-10b KO mice rescued these molecular alterations and phenotypes. CONCLUSIONS Our study uncovered a potential pathophysiologic mechanism of gut barrier dysfunction that links both the diabetes and gut dysmotility phenotypes in mice lacking miR-10b-5p. Treatment with a miR-10b-5p mimic reversed the leaky gut, diabetic, and gut dysmotility phenotypes, highlighting the translational potential of the miR-10b-5p mimic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Zogg
- Department of Physiology and Cell BiologySchool of MedicineUniversity of NevadaRenoNevadaUSA
| | - Rajan Singh
- Department of Physiology and Cell BiologySchool of MedicineUniversity of NevadaRenoNevadaUSA
| | - Se Eun Ha
- Department of Physiology and Cell BiologySchool of MedicineUniversity of NevadaRenoNevadaUSA
| | - Zhuqing Wang
- Department of Physiology and Cell BiologySchool of MedicineUniversity of NevadaRenoNevadaUSA
| | - Byungchang Jin
- Department of Physiology and Cell BiologySchool of MedicineUniversity of NevadaRenoNevadaUSA
| | - Mariah Ha
- Department of Physiology and Cell BiologySchool of MedicineUniversity of NevadaRenoNevadaUSA
| | - Mirabel Dafinone
- Department of Physiology and Cell BiologySchool of MedicineUniversity of NevadaRenoNevadaUSA
| | - Tylar Batalon
- Department of Physiology and Cell BiologySchool of MedicineUniversity of NevadaRenoNevadaUSA
| | - Nicholas Hoberg
- Department of Physiology and Cell BiologySchool of MedicineUniversity of NevadaRenoNevadaUSA
| | - Sandra Poudrier
- Department of Physiology and Cell BiologySchool of MedicineUniversity of NevadaRenoNevadaUSA
| | - Linda Nguyen
- Division of Gastroenterology & HepatologyStanford University School of MedicineStanfordCaliforniaUSA
| | - Wei Yan
- Department of Physiology and Cell BiologySchool of MedicineUniversity of NevadaRenoNevadaUSA
| | - Brian T. Layden
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and MetabolismDepartment of MedicineThe University of Illinois at ChicagoChicagoIllinoisUSA
- Jesse Brown Veterans Affairs Medical CenterChicagoIllinoisUSA
| | - Lara R. Dugas
- Loyola University ChicagoPublic Health SciencesMaywoodIllinoisUSA
- Division of Epidemiology & BiostatisticsSchool of Public HealthFaculty of Health SciencesUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
| | - Kenton M. Sanders
- Department of Physiology and Cell BiologySchool of MedicineUniversity of NevadaRenoNevadaUSA
| | - Seungil Ro
- Department of Physiology and Cell BiologySchool of MedicineUniversity of NevadaRenoNevadaUSA
- RosVivo TherapeuticsApplied Research FacilityRenoNevadaUSA
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47
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Bu T, Li L, Tian J. Unlocking the role of non-coding RNAs in prostate cancer progression: exploring the interplay with the Wnt signaling pathway. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1269233. [PMID: 37829301 PMCID: PMC10565042 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1269233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the most common cancers in males, exhibiting a wide spectrum of clinical manifestations that pose challenges in its diagnosis and treatment. The Wnt signaling pathway, a conserved and complex pathway, is crucial for embryonic development, tissue homeostasis, and various physiological processes. Apart from the classical Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, there exist multiple non-classical Wnt signaling pathways, including the Wnt/PCP and Wnt/Ca2+ pathways. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are involved in the occurrence and development of PCa and the response to PCa treatment. ncRNAs are known to execute diverse regulatory roles in cellular processes, despite their inability to encode proteins. Among them, microRNAs, long non-coding RNAs, and circular RNAs play key roles in the regulation of the Wnt signaling pathway in PCa. Aberrant expression of these ncRNAs and dysregulation of the Wnt signaling pathway are one of the causes of cell proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, migration, and angiogenesis in PCa. Moreover, these ncRNAs affect the characteristics of PCa cells and hold promise as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers. Herein, we summarize the role of ncRNAs in the regulation of the Wnt signaling pathway during the development of PCa. Additionally, we present an overview of the current progress in research on the correlation between these molecules and clinical features of the disease to provide novel insights and strategies for the treatment of PCa.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jiyu Tian
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
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Chin DD, Patel N, Lee W, Kanaya S, Cook J, Chung EJ. Long-term, in vivo therapeutic effects of a single dose of miR-145 micelles for atherosclerosis. Bioact Mater 2023; 27:327-336. [PMID: 37122900 PMCID: PMC10140752 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2023.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease that is characterized by the build-up of lipid-rich plaques in the arterial walls. The standard treatment for patients with atherosclerosis is statin therapy aimed to lower serum lipid levels. Despite its widespread use, many patients taking statins continue to experience acute events. Thus, to develop improved and alternative therapies, we previously reported on microRNA-145 (miR-145 micelles) and its ability to inhibit atherosclerosis by targeting vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). Importantly, one dose of miR-145 micelles significantly abrogated disease progression when evaluated two weeks post-administration. Thus, in this study, to evaluate how long the sustained effects of miR-145 micelles can be maintained and towards identifying a dosing regimen that is practical for patients with chronic disease, the therapeutic effects of a single dose of miR-145 micelles were evaluated for up to two months in vivo. After one and two months post-treatment, miR-145 micelles were found to reduce plaque size and overall lesion area compared to all other controls including statins without causing adverse effects. Furthermore, a single dose of miR-145 micelle treatment inhibited VSMC transdifferentiation into pathogenic macrophage-like and osteogenic cells in plaques. Together, our data shows the long-term efficacy and sustained effects of miR-145 micelles that is amenable using a dosing frequency relevant to chronic disease patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah D. Chin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90089, United States
| | - Neil Patel
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90089, United States
| | - Woori Lee
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90089, United States
| | - Sonali Kanaya
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90089, United States
| | - Jackson Cook
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90089, United States
| | - Eun Ji Chung
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90089, United States
- Division of Vascular Surgery and Endovascular Therapy, Department of Surgery, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, United States
- Mork Family Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90089, United States
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center for Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, United States
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, United States
- Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90089, United States
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49
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McCartan R, Khorkova O, Volmar CH, Wahlestedt C. Nucleic acid-based therapeutics for the treatment of central nervous system disorders. Front Genet 2023; 14:1250276. [PMID: 37662844 PMCID: PMC10468602 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2023.1250276] [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: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Nucleic acid-based therapeutics (NBTs) are an emerging class of drugs with potential for the treatment of a wide range of central nervous system conditions. To date, pertaining to CNS indications, there are two commercially available NBTs and a large number of ongoing clinical trials. However, these NBTs are applied directly to the brain due to very low blood brain barrier permeability. In this review, we outline recent advances in chemical modifications of NBTs and NBT delivery techniques intended to promote brain exposure, efficacy, and possible future systemic application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robyn McCartan
- Center for Therapeutic Innovation, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States
| | - Olga Khorkova
- Center for Therapeutic Innovation, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States
- OPKO Health, Miami, Florida, United States
| | - Claude-Henry Volmar
- Center for Therapeutic Innovation, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States
| | - Claes Wahlestedt
- Center for Therapeutic Innovation, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States
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50
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Ribeiro J, Lopes I, Gomes AC. A New Perspective for the Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease: Exosome-like Liposomes to Deliver Natural Compounds and RNA Therapies. Molecules 2023; 28:6015. [PMID: 37630268 PMCID: PMC10458935 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28166015] [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: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
With the increment of the aging population in recent years, neurodegenerative diseases exert a major global disease burden, essentially as a result of the lack of treatments that stop the disease progression. Alzheimer's Disease (AD) is an example of a neurodegenerative disease that affects millions of people globally, with no effective treatment. Natural compounds have emerged as a viable therapy to fill a huge gap in AD management, and in recent years, mostly fueled by the COVID-19 pandemic, RNA-based therapeutics have become a hot topic in the treatment of several diseases. Treatments of AD face significant limitations due to the complex and interconnected pathways that lead to their hallmarks and also due to the necessity to cross the blood-brain barrier. Nanotechnology has contributed to surpassing this bottleneck in the treatment of AD by promoting safe and enhanced drug delivery to the brain. In particular, exosome-like nanoparticles, a hybrid delivery system combining exosomes and liposomes' advantageous features, are demonstrating great potential in the treatment of central nervous system diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Ribeiro
- Centre of Molecular and Environmental Biology (CBMA)/Aquatic Research Network (ARNET) Associate Laboratory, Universidade do Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; (J.R.); (I.L.)
- Institute of Science and Innovation for Sustainability (IB-S), Universidade do Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - Ivo Lopes
- Centre of Molecular and Environmental Biology (CBMA)/Aquatic Research Network (ARNET) Associate Laboratory, Universidade do Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; (J.R.); (I.L.)
| | - Andreia Castro Gomes
- Centre of Molecular and Environmental Biology (CBMA)/Aquatic Research Network (ARNET) Associate Laboratory, Universidade do Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; (J.R.); (I.L.)
- Institute of Science and Innovation for Sustainability (IB-S), Universidade do Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
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