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Hınçer A, Ahan RE, Aras E, Şeker UÖŞ. Making the Next Generation of Therapeutics: mRNA Meets Synthetic Biology. ACS Synth Biol 2023; 12:2505-2515. [PMID: 37672348 PMCID: PMC10510722 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.3c00253] [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: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
The development of mRNA-based therapeutics centers around the natural functioning of mRNA molecules to provide the genetic information required for protein translation. To improve the efficacy of these therapeutics and minimize side effects, researchers can focus on the features of mRNA itself or the properties of the delivery agent to achieve the desired response. The tools considered for mRNA manipulation can be improved in terms of targetability, tunability, and translatability to medicine. While ongoing studies are dedicated to improving conventional approaches, innovative approaches can also be considered to unleash the full potential of mRNA-based therapeutics. Here, we discuss the opportunities that emerged from introducing synthetic biology to mRNA therapeutics. It includes a discussion of modular self-assembled mRNA nanoparticles, logic gates on a single mRNA molecule, and other possibilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmet Hınçer
- UNAM
− Institute of Materials Science and Nanotechnology, National
Nanotechnology Research Center, Bilkent
University, Ankara 06800, Turkey
| | - Recep Erdem Ahan
- UNAM
− Institute of Materials Science and Nanotechnology, National
Nanotechnology Research Center, Bilkent
University, Ankara 06800, Turkey
| | - Ebru Aras
- UNAM
− Institute of Materials Science and Nanotechnology, National
Nanotechnology Research Center, Bilkent
University, Ankara 06800, Turkey
| | - Urartu Özgür Şafak Şeker
- UNAM
− Institute of Materials Science and Nanotechnology, National
Nanotechnology Research Center, Bilkent
University, Ankara 06800, Turkey
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2
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Mbatha LS, Akinyelu J, Maiyo F, Kudanga T. Future prospects in mRNA vaccine development. Biomed Mater 2023; 18:052006. [PMID: 37589309 DOI: 10.1088/1748-605x/aceceb] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
The recent advancements in messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) vaccine development have vastly enhanced their use as alternatives to conventional vaccines in the prevention of various infectious diseases and treatment of several types of cancers. This is mainly due to their remarkable ability to stimulate specific immune responses with minimal clinical side effects. This review gives a detailed overview of mRNA vaccines currently in use or at various stages of development, the recent advancements in mRNA vaccine development, and the challenges encountered in their development. Future perspectives on this technology are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Londiwe Simphiwe Mbatha
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Science, Durban University of Technology, PO Box 1334, Durban 4000, South Africa
| | - Jude Akinyelu
- Department of Biochemistry, Federal University Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti state, Nigeria
| | - Fiona Maiyo
- Department of Medical Sciences, Kabarak University, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Tukayi Kudanga
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Science, Durban University of Technology, PO Box 1334, Durban 4000, South Africa
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3
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Cárdenas EL, O'Rourke RL, Menon A, Meagher J, Stuckey J, Garner AL. Design of Cell-Permeable Inhibitors of Eukaryotic Translation Initiation Factor 4E (eIF4E) for Inhibiting Aberrant Cap-Dependent Translation in Cancer. J Med Chem 2023; 66:10734-10745. [PMID: 37471629 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c00917] [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] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
Eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E (eIF4E) is an RNA-binding protein that binds to the m7GpppX-cap at the 5' terminus of coding mRNAs to initiate cap-dependent translation. While all cells require cap-dependent translation, cancer cells become addicted to enhanced translational capacity, driving the production of oncogenic proteins involved in proliferation, evasion of apoptosis, metastasis, and angiogenesis, among other cancerous phenotypes. eIF4E is the rate-limiting translation factor, and its activation has been shown to drive cancer initiation, progression, metastasis, and drug resistance. These findings have established eIF4E as a translational oncogene and promising, albeit challenging, anti-cancer therapeutic target. Although significant effort has been put forth toward inhibiting eIF4E, the design of cell-permeable, cap-competitive inhibitors remains a challenge. Herein, we describe our work toward solving this long-standing challenge. By employing an acyclic nucleoside phosphonate prodrug strategy, we report the synthesis of cell-permeable inhibitors of eIF4E binding to capped mRNA to inhibit cap-dependent translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilio L Cárdenas
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Rachel L O'Rourke
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Arya Menon
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Jennifer Meagher
- Life Science Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Jeanne Stuckey
- Life Science Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
- Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Amanda L Garner
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
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4
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Liu C, Shi Q, Huang X, Koo S, Kong N, Tao W. mRNA-based cancer therapeutics. Nat Rev Cancer 2023:10.1038/s41568-023-00586-2. [PMID: 37311817 DOI: 10.1038/s41568-023-00586-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 81.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Due to the fact that mRNA technology allows the production of diverse vaccines and treatments in a shorter time frame and with reduced expense compared to conventional approaches, there has been a surge in the use of mRNA-based therapeutics in recent years. With the aim of encoding tumour antigens for cancer vaccines, cytokines for immunotherapy, tumour suppressors to inhibit tumour development, chimeric antigen receptors for engineered T cell therapy or genome-editing proteins for gene therapy, many of these therapeutics have shown promising efficacy in preclinical studies, and some have even entered clinical trials. Given the evidence supporting the effectiveness and safety of clinically approved mRNA vaccines, coupled with growing interest in mRNA-based therapeutics, mRNA technology is poised to become one of the major pillars in cancer drug development. In this Review, we present in vitro transcribed mRNA-based therapeutics for cancer treatment, including the characteristics of the various types of synthetic mRNA, the packaging systems for efficient mRNA delivery, preclinical and clinical studies, current challenges and future prospects in the field. We anticipate the translation of promising mRNA-based treatments into clinical applications, to ultimately benefit patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuang Liu
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anaesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Qiangqiang Shi
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anaesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiangang Huang
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anaesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Seyoung Koo
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anaesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Na Kong
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anaesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Wei Tao
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anaesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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5
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Bafleh WS, Abdulsamad HMR, Al-Qaraghuli SM, El Khatib RY, Elbahrawi RT, Abdukadir AM, Alsawae SM, Dimassi Z, Hamdan H, Kashir J. Applications of advances in mRNA-based platforms as therapeutics and diagnostics in reproductive technologies. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1198848. [PMID: 37305677 PMCID: PMC10250609 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1198848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The recent COVID-19 pandemic led to many drastic changes in not only society, law, economics, but also in science and medicine, marking for the first time when drug regulatory authorities cleared for use mRNA-based vaccines in the fight against this outbreak. However, while indeed representing a novel application of such technology in the context of vaccination medicine, introducing RNA into cells to produce resultant molecules (proteins, antibodies, etc.) is not a novel principle. It has been common practice to introduce/inject mRNA into oocytes and embryos to inhibit, induce, and identify several factors in a research context, while such aspects have also been proposed as potential therapeutic and diagnostic applications to combat infertility in humans. Herein, we describe key areas where mRNA-based platforms have thus far represented potential areas of clinical applications, describing the advantages and limitations of such applications. Finally, we also discuss how recent advances in mRNA-based platforms, driven by the recent pandemic, may stand to benefit the treatment of infertility in humans. We also present brief future directions as to how we could utilise recent and current advancements to enhance RNA therapeutics within reproductive biology, specifically with relation to oocyte and embryo delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wjdan S. Bafleh
- Department of Physiology and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Haia M. R. Abdulsamad
- Department of Physiology and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Sally M. Al-Qaraghuli
- Department of Physiology and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Riwa Y. El Khatib
- Department of Physiology and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rawdah Taha Elbahrawi
- Department of Physiology and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Azhar Mohamud Abdukadir
- Department of Physiology and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Zakia Dimassi
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Hamdan Hamdan
- Department of Physiology and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Healthcare Engineering Innovation Center (HEIC), Khalifa University of Science and Technology, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Junaid Kashir
- Department of Biology, College of Arts and Science, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Comparative Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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6
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Cárdenas EL, O’Rourke RL, Menon A, Meagher J, Stuckey J, Garner AL. Design of Cell-Permeable Inhibitors of Eukaryotic Translation Initiation Factor 4E (eIF4E) for Inhibiting Aberrant Cap-Dependent Translation in Cancer. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.05.23.541912. [PMID: 37292917 PMCID: PMC10245873 DOI: 10.1101/2023.05.23.541912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E (eIF4E) is an RNA-binding protein that binds to the m 7 GpppX-cap at the 5' terminus of coding mRNAs to initiate cap-dependent translation. While all cells require cap-dependent translation, cancer cells become addicted to enhanced translational capacity, driving the production of oncogenic proteins involved in proliferation, evasion of apoptosis, metastasis, and angiogenesis among other cancerous phenotypes. eIF4E is the rate-limiting translation factor and its activation has been shown to drive cancer initiation, progression, metastasis, and drug resistance. These findings have established eIF4E as a translational oncogene and promising, albeit challenging, anti-cancer therapeutic target. Although significant effort has been put forth towards inhibiting eIF4E, the design of cell-permeable, cap-competitive inhibitors remains a challenge. Herein, we describe our work towards solving this long-standing challenge. By employing an acyclic nucleoside phosphonate prodrug strategy, we report the synthesis of cell-permeable inhibitors of eIF4E binding to capped mRNA to inhibit cap-dependent translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilio L. Cárdenas
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Rachel L. O’Rourke
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Arya Menon
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Jennifer Meagher
- Life Science Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Jeanne Stuckey
- Life Science Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
- Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Amanda L. Garner
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
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Wojtczak BA, Bednarczyk M, Sikorski PJ, Wojtczak A, Surynt P, Kowalska J, Jemielity J. Synthesis and Evaluation of Diguanosine Cap Analogs Modified at the C8-Position by Suzuki-Miyaura Cross-Coupling: Discovery of 7-Methylguanosine-Based Molecular Rotors. J Org Chem 2023. [PMID: 37209102 DOI: 10.1021/acs.joc.3c00126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Chemical modifications of the mRNA cap structure can enhance the stability, translational properties, and half-life of mRNAs, thereby altering the therapeutic properties of synthetic mRNA. However, cap structure modification is challenging because of the instability of the 5'-5'-triphosphate bridge and N7-methylguanosine. The Suzuki-Miyaura cross-coupling reaction between boronic acid and halogen compound is a mild, convenient, and potentially applicable approach for modifying biomolecules. Herein, we describe two methods to synthesize C8-modified cap structures using the Suzuki-Miyaura cross-coupling reaction. Both methods employed phosphorimidazolide chemistry to form the 5',5'-triphosphate bridge. However, in the first method, the introduction of the modification via the Suzuki-Miyaura cross-coupling reaction at the C8 position occurs postsynthetically, at the dinucleotide level, whereas in the second method, the modification was introduced at the level of the nucleoside 5'-monophosphate, and later, the triphosphate bridge was formed. Both methods were successfully applied to incorporate six different groups (methyl, cyclopropyl, phenyl, 4-dimethylaminophenyl, 4-cyanophenyl, and 1-pyrene) into either the m7G or G moieties of the cap structure. Aromatic substituents at the C8-position of guanosine form a push-pull system that exhibits environment-sensitive fluorescence. We demonstrated that this phenomenon can be harnessed to study the interaction with cap-binding proteins, e.g., eIF4E, DcpS, Nudt16, and snurportin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blazej A Wojtczak
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw; S. Banacha 2c, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marcelina Bednarczyk
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw; S. Banacha 2c, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
- Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw; L. Pasteura 5, 02-093, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Pawel J Sikorski
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw; S. Banacha 2c, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Anna Wojtczak
- Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw; L. Pasteura 5, 02-093, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Piotr Surynt
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw; S. Banacha 2c, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
- Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw; L. Pasteura 5, 02-093, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Joanna Kowalska
- Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw; L. Pasteura 5, 02-093, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jacek Jemielity
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw; S. Banacha 2c, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
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8
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Grzela R, Piecyk K, Stankiewicz-Drogon A, Pietrow P, Lukaszewicz M, Kurpiejewski K, Darzynkiewicz E, Jankowska-Anyszka M. N2 modified dinucleotide cap analogs as a potent tool for mRNA engineering. RNA (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2023; 29:200-216. [PMID: 36418172 PMCID: PMC9891257 DOI: 10.1261/rna.079460.122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
mRNA-based vaccines are relatively new technologies that have been in the field of interest of research centers and pharmaceutical companies in recent years. Such therapeutics are an attractive alternative for DNA-based vaccines since they provide material that can be used with no risk of genomic integration. Additionally, mRNA can be quite easily engineered to introduce modifications for different applications or to modulate its properties, for example, to increase translational efficiency or stability, which is not available for DNA vectors. Here, we describe the use of N2 modified dinucleotide cap analogs as components of mRNA transcripts. The compounds obtained showed very promising biological properties while incorporated into mRNA. The presented N2-guanine modifications within the cap structure ensure proper attachment of the dinucleotide to the transcripts in the IVT reaction, guarantees their incorporation only in the correct orientation, and enables highly efficient translation of mRNA both in the in vitro translation system and in human HEK293 cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renata Grzela
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, University of Warsaw, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Karolina Piecyk
- Faculty of Chemistry, University of Warsaw, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Anna Stankiewicz-Drogon
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, University of Warsaw, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Paulina Pietrow
- Faculty of Chemistry, University of Warsaw, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Maciej Lukaszewicz
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, University of Warsaw, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Edward Darzynkiewicz
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, University of Warsaw, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland
- Center of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
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9
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mRNA-From COVID-19 Treatment to Cancer Immunotherapy. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11020308. [PMID: 36830845 PMCID: PMC9953480 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11020308] [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: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
This review provides an overview covering mRNA from its use in the COVID-19 pandemic to cancer immunotherapy, starting from the selection of appropriate antigens, tumor-associated and tumor-specific antigens, neoantigens, the basics of optimizing the mRNA molecule in terms of stability, efficacy, and tolerability, choosing the best formulation and the optimal route of administration, to summarizing current clinical trials of mRNA vaccines in tumor therapy.
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10
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Senthilvelan A, Shanmugasundaram M, Kore AR. Solution‐Phase Chemical Synthesis of Modified RNA Dinucleotides. Curr Protoc 2022; 2:e583. [PMID: 36342272 DOI: 10.1002/cpz1.583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
This article describes a simple, reliable, efficient, and improved solution-phase method for the gram-scale chemical synthesis of RNA dinucleotides such as pAm pA, pAm pG, and pAm pU that utilizes phosphoramidite chemistry. The overall synthetic strategy involves three steps. The first step involves the coupling reaction between 5'-O-MMT protected nucleoside-3'-O-phosphoramidite and a protected nucleoside containing a free 5'-OH group in the presence of tetrazole, followed by the oxidation of phosphite triester using tert-butyl hydroperoxide to give the corresponding protected Nm pN. Next, the 5'-O-MMT is cleaved under 3% trichloroacetic acid in dichloromethane conditions. Finally, the 5'-hydroxyl group is phosphorylated by the use of an activated bis(2-cyanoethyl)-N,N-diisopropyl phosphoramidite using tetrazole, followed by the oxidation of trivalent to pentavalent phosphorus using tert-butyl hydroperoxide and subsequent deprotection using ammonium hydroxide to afford the corresponding RNA dinucleotide, pNm pN, in good yields with high purity (>99.5%). © 2022 Wiley Periodicals LLC.
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Senthilvelan A, Shanmugasundaram M, Kore AR. Efficient and Improved Solution-Phase Synthesis of Modified RNA Dinucleotides: Versatile Synthons in Cap 1 mRNA Therapeutics. Org Process Res Dev 2022. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.oprd.2c00218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Annamalai Senthilvelan
- Life Sciences Solutions Group, Thermo Fisher Scientific, 2130 Woodward Street, Austin, Texas 78744-1832, United States
| | - Muthian Shanmugasundaram
- Life Sciences Solutions Group, Thermo Fisher Scientific, 2130 Woodward Street, Austin, Texas 78744-1832, United States
| | - Anilkumar R. Kore
- Life Sciences Solutions Group, Thermo Fisher Scientific, 2130 Woodward Street, Austin, Texas 78744-1832, United States
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Mollocana-Lara EC, Ni M, Agathos SN, Gonzales-Zubiate FA. The infinite possibilities of RNA therapeutics. J Ind Microbiol Biotechnol 2021; 48:kuab063. [PMID: 34463324 PMCID: PMC8788720 DOI: 10.1093/jimb/kuab063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Although the study of ribonucleic acid (RNA) therapeutics started decades ago, for many years, this field of research was overshadowed by the growing interest in DNA-based therapies. Nowadays, the role of several types of RNA in cell regulation processes and the development of various diseases have been elucidated, and research in RNA therapeutics is back with force. This short literature review aims to present general aspects of many of the molecules currently used in RNA therapeutics, including in vitro transcribed mRNA (IVT mRNA), antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), aptamers, small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), and microRNAs (miRNAs). In addition, we describe the state of the art of technologies applied for synthetic RNA manufacture and delivery. Likewise, we detail the RNA-based therapies approved by the FDA so far, as well as the ongoing clinical investigations. As a final point, we highlight the current and potential advantages of working on RNA-based therapeutics and how these could lead to a new era of accessible and personalized healthcare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evelyn C Mollocana-Lara
- School of Biological Sciences and Engineering, Yachay Tech University, 100119, San Miguel de Urcuquí, Ecuador
| | - Ming Ni
- GenScript, Jiangsu Province, 212000, People's Republic of China
| | - Spiros N Agathos
- Bioengineering Laboratory, Earth and Life Institute, Catholic University of Louvain, Louvain-la-Neuve B-1348, Belgium
| | - Fernando A Gonzales-Zubiate
- School of Biological Sciences and Engineering, Yachay Tech University, 100119, San Miguel de Urcuquí, Ecuador
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Bidram M, Zhao Y, Shebardina NG, Baldin AV, Bazhin AV, Ganjalikhany MR, Zamyatnin AA, Ganjalikhani-hakemi M. mRNA-Based Cancer Vaccines: A Therapeutic Strategy for the Treatment of Melanoma Patients. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:1060. [PMID: 34696168 PMCID: PMC8540049 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9101060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Revised: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Malignant melanoma is one of the most aggressive forms of cancer and the leading cause of death from skin tumors. Given the increased incidence of melanoma diagnoses in recent years, it is essential to develop effective treatments to control this disease. In this regard, the use of cancer vaccines to enhance cell-mediated immunity is considered to be one of the most modern immunotherapy options for cancer treatment. The most recent cancer vaccine options are mRNA vaccines, with a focus on their usage as modern treatments. Advantages of mRNA cancer vaccines include their rapid production and low manufacturing costs. mRNA-based vaccines are also able to induce both humoral and cellular immune responses. In addition to the many advantages of mRNA vaccines for the treatment of cancer, their use is associated with a number of challenges. For this reason, before mRNA vaccines can be used for the treatment of cancer, comprehensive information about them is required and a large number of trials need to be conducted. Here, we reviewed the general features of mRNA vaccines, including their basis, stabilization, and delivery methods. We also covered clinical trials involving the use of mRNA vaccines in melanoma cancer and the challenges involved with this type of treatment. This review also emphasized the combination of treatment with mRNA vaccines with the use of immune-checkpoint blockers to enhance cell-mediated immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Bidram
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Science and Technology, University of Isfahan, Isfahan 8174673441, Iran; (M.B.); (M.R.G.)
| | - Yue Zhao
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplant Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians University of Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany; (Y.Z.); (A.V.B.)
| | - Natalia G. Shebardina
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, 119991 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Alexey V. Baldin
- Belozersky Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119992 Moscow, Russia;
- V.I. Kulakov National Medical Research Center of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology, 117997 Moscow, Russia
| | - Alexandr V. Bazhin
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplant Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians University of Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany; (Y.Z.); (A.V.B.)
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Mohamad Reza Ganjalikhany
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Science and Technology, University of Isfahan, Isfahan 8174673441, Iran; (M.B.); (M.R.G.)
| | - Andrey A. Zamyatnin
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, 119991 Moscow, Russia;
- Belozersky Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119992 Moscow, Russia;
- Department of Biotechnology, Sirius University of Science and Technology, 1 Olympic Ave, 354340 Sochi, Russia
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7X, UK
| | - Mazdak Ganjalikhani-hakemi
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan 8174673441, Iran
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14
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Kleczewska N, Sikorski PJ, Warminska Z, Markiewicz L, Kasprzyk R, Baran N, Kwapiszewska K, Karpinska A, Michalski J, Holyst R, Kowalska J, Jemielity J. Cellular delivery of dinucleotides by conjugation with small molecules: targeting translation initiation for anticancer applications. Chem Sci 2021; 12:10242-10251. [PMID: 34377411 PMCID: PMC8336483 DOI: 10.1039/d1sc02143e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Targeting cap-dependent translation initiation is one of the experimental approaches that could lead to the development of novel anti-cancer therapies. Synthetic dinucleoside 5',5'-triphosphates cap analogs are potent antagonists of eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E (eIF4E) in vitro and could counteract elevated levels of eIF4E in cancer cells; however, transformation of these compounds into therapeutic agents remains challenging - they do not easily penetrate into cells and are susceptible to enzymatic cleavage. Here, we tested the potential of several small molecule ligands - folic acid, biotin, glucose, and cholesterol - to deliver both hydrolyzable and cleavage-resistant cap analogs into cells. A broad structure-activity relationship (SAR) study using model fluorescent probes and cap-ligand conjugates showed that cholesterol greatly facilitates uptake of cap analogs without disturbing the interactions with eIF4E. The most potent cholesterol conjugate identified showed apoptosis-mediated cytotoxicity towards cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Kleczewska
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw Banacha 2c 02-097 Warsaw Poland
| | - Pawel J Sikorski
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw Banacha 2c 02-097 Warsaw Poland
| | - Zofia Warminska
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw Banacha 2c 02-097 Warsaw Poland
- College of Inter-Faculty Individual Studies in Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Warsaw Banacha 2c 02-097 Warsaw Poland
| | - Lukasz Markiewicz
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw Banacha 2c 02-097 Warsaw Poland
| | - Renata Kasprzyk
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw Banacha 2c 02-097 Warsaw Poland
- College of Inter-Faculty Individual Studies in Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Warsaw Banacha 2c 02-097 Warsaw Poland
- Division of Biophysics Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics University of Warsaw Pasteura 5 02-093 Warsaw Poland
| | - Natalia Baran
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw Banacha 2c 02-097 Warsaw Poland
- Faculty of Biology University of Warsaw I. Miecznikowa 1 02-096 Warsaw Poland
| | - Karina Kwapiszewska
- Institute of Physical Chemistry Polish Academy of Sciences Kasprzaka 44/52 01-224 Warsaw Poland
| | - Aneta Karpinska
- Institute of Physical Chemistry Polish Academy of Sciences Kasprzaka 44/52 01-224 Warsaw Poland
| | - Jaroslaw Michalski
- Institute of Physical Chemistry Polish Academy of Sciences Kasprzaka 44/52 01-224 Warsaw Poland
| | - Robert Holyst
- Institute of Physical Chemistry Polish Academy of Sciences Kasprzaka 44/52 01-224 Warsaw Poland
| | - Joanna Kowalska
- Division of Biophysics Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics University of Warsaw Pasteura 5 02-093 Warsaw Poland
| | - Jacek Jemielity
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw Banacha 2c 02-097 Warsaw Poland
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15
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Shahryari A, Burtscher I, Nazari Z, Lickert H. Engineering Gene Therapy: Advances and Barriers. ADVANCED THERAPEUTICS 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/adtp.202100040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Alireza Shahryari
- Institute of Diabetes and Regeneration Research Helmholtz Zentrum München 85764 Neuherberg Germany
- School of Medicine Department of Human Genetics Technical University of Munich Klinikum Rechts der Isar 81675 München Germany
- Institute of Stem Cell Research Helmholtz Zentrum München 85764 Neuherberg Germany
- Stem Cell Research Center Golestan University of Medical Sciences Gorgan 49341‐74515 Iran
| | - Ingo Burtscher
- Institute of Diabetes and Regeneration Research Helmholtz Zentrum München 85764 Neuherberg Germany
- Institute of Stem Cell Research Helmholtz Zentrum München 85764 Neuherberg Germany
| | - Zahra Nazari
- Department of Biology School of Basic Sciences Golestan University Gorgan 49361‐79142 Iran
| | - Heiko Lickert
- Institute of Diabetes and Regeneration Research Helmholtz Zentrum München 85764 Neuherberg Germany
- School of Medicine Department of Human Genetics Technical University of Munich Klinikum Rechts der Isar 81675 München Germany
- Institute of Stem Cell Research Helmholtz Zentrum München 85764 Neuherberg Germany
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16
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5'-DMT-protected double-stranded DNA: Synthesis and competence to enzymatic reactions. Anal Biochem 2021; 617:114115. [PMID: 33508272 DOI: 10.1016/j.ab.2021.114115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Revised: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The functionalization of 5'-OH group in nucleic acids is of significant value for molecular biology. In the current work we discovered that acid-labile 4,4'-dimethoxytrityl protecting group (DMT) of oligonucleotides (ONs) is stable under PCR conditions and does not interfere with activity of DNA polymerases. So application of 5'-DMT-protected ONs could allow producing both symmetric and asymmetric 5'-DMT-blocked double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) fragments. We demonstrated that the presence of thiol compounds (mercaptoethanol and dithiothreitol) in PCR mixture is undesirable for the stability of DMT-group. DMT-ONs can be successfully used during polymerase chain assembly of synthetic genes. We tested 5'-DMT dsDNA in blunt-end DNA ligation reaction by T4 DNA ligase and found that it could not be ligated with 5'-phosphorylated DNA fragments, namely linearized plasmid vector pJET1.2/blunt. Possible reason for this is steric hindrance created by bulky and rigid DMT-group, that prevents entering enzyme active site. We also demonstrated that 5'-DMT modification of dsDNA does not affect activity of T5 5',3'-exonuclease towards both ssDNA and dsDNA. Further screening of the exonucleases, sensitive to 5'-DMT-modification or search of ways to separate long 5'-DMT-ssDNA and 5'-OH-ssDNA could allow finding application of 5'-DMT-modified oligo- and polynucleotides.
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17
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Strzelecka D, Smietanski M, Sikorski PJ, Warminski M, Kowalska J, Jemielity J. Phosphodiester modifications in mRNA poly(A) tail prevent deadenylation without compromising protein expression. RNA (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2020; 26:1815-1837. [PMID: 32820035 PMCID: PMC7668260 DOI: 10.1261/rna.077099.120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Accepted: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Chemical modifications enable preparation of mRNAs with augmented stability and translational activity. In this study, we explored how chemical modifications of 5',3'-phosphodiester bonds in the mRNA body and poly(A) tail influence the biological properties of eukaryotic mRNA. To obtain modified and unmodified in vitro transcribed mRNAs, we used ATP and ATP analogs modified at the α-phosphate (containing either O-to-S or O-to-BH3 substitutions) and three different RNA polymerases-SP6, T7, and poly(A) polymerase. To verify the efficiency of incorporation of ATP analogs in the presence of ATP, we developed a liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method for quantitative assessment of modification frequency based on exhaustive degradation of the transcripts to 5'-mononucleotides. The method also estimated the average poly(A) tail lengths, thereby providing a versatile tool for establishing a structure-biological property relationship for mRNA. We found that mRNAs containing phosphorothioate groups within the poly(A) tail were substantially less susceptible to degradation by 3'-deadenylase than unmodified mRNA and were efficiently expressed in cultured cells, which makes them useful research tools and potential candidates for future development of mRNA-based therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominika Strzelecka
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Pawel J Sikorski
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marcin Warminski
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Joanna Kowalska
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jacek Jemielity
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
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18
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Gallagher EE, Menon A, Chmiel AF, Deprey K, Kritzer JA, Garner AL. A cell-penetrant lactam-stapled peptide for targeting eIF4E protein-protein interactions. Eur J Med Chem 2020; 205:112655. [PMID: 32739551 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2020.112655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Revised: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E (eIF4E) has emerged as a promising cancer therapeutic target due to its role in the initiation of cap-dependent translation, a process that is accelerated during tumorigenesis. To regulate the initiation of cap-dependent translation, eIF4E participates in protein-protein interactions (PPI) with binding partners, 4E-BP1 and eIF4G, which act as an inhibitor and stimulator of translation, respectively. As both of these proteins interact with eIF4E by utilizing a short, α-helical stretch of amino acids, our laboratory has been working to develop helical mimetics of these proteins, in particular 4E-BP1, to inhibit eIF4E PPIs. Herein, we describe our continued efforts in this area and report the development and characterization of a cell-penetrant lactam stapled peptide for targeting cellular eIF4E.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin E Gallagher
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, 1600 Huron Parkway, NCRC B520, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Arya Menon
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, 1600 Huron Parkway, NCRC B520, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Alyah F Chmiel
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, 1600 Huron Parkway, NCRC B520, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Kirsten Deprey
- Department of Chemistry, Tufts University, 62 Talbot Avenue, Medford, MA, 02155, USA
| | - Joshua A Kritzer
- Department of Chemistry, Tufts University, 62 Talbot Avenue, Medford, MA, 02155, USA
| | - Amanda L Garner
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, 1600 Huron Parkway, NCRC B520, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA.
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19
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Kasprzyk R, Fido M, Mamot A, Wanat P, Smietanski M, Kopcial M, Cowling VH, Kowalska J, Jemielity J. Direct High-Throughput Screening Assay for mRNA Cap Guanine-N7 Methyltransferase Activity. Chemistry 2020; 26:11266-11275. [PMID: 32259329 PMCID: PMC7262028 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202001036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Revised: 04/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
In eukaryotes, mature mRNA is formed through modifications of precursor mRNA, one of which is 5' cap biosynthesis, involving RNA cap guanine-N7 methyltransferase (N7-MTase). N7-MTases are also encoded by some eukaryotic viruses and facilitate their replication. N7-MTase inhibitors have therapeutic potential, but their discovery is difficult because long RNA substrates are usually required for activity. Herein, we report a universal N7-MTase activity assay based on small-molecule fluorescent probes. We synthesized 12 fluorescent substrate analogues (GpppA and GpppG derivatives) varying in the dye type, dye attachment site, and linker length. GpppA labeled with pyrene at the 3'-O position of adenosine acted as an artificial substrate with the properties of a turn-off probe for all three tested N7-MTases (human, parasite, and viral). Using this compound, a N7-MTase inhibitor assay adaptable to high-throughput screening was developed and used to screen synthetic substrate analogues and a commercial library. Several inhibitors with nanomolar activities were identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renata Kasprzyk
- Centre of New TechnologiesUniversity of WarsawBanacha 2c02097WarsawPoland
- College of Inter-Faculty Individual Studies in Mathematics and Natural SciencesUniversity of WarsawBanacha 2c02097WarsawPoland
| | - Mateusz Fido
- Division of BiophysicsInstitute of Experimental PhysicsFaculty of PhysicsUniversity of WarsawPasteura 502093WarsawPoland
| | - Adam Mamot
- Division of BiophysicsInstitute of Experimental PhysicsFaculty of PhysicsUniversity of WarsawPasteura 502093WarsawPoland
| | - Przemyslaw Wanat
- Division of BiophysicsInstitute of Experimental PhysicsFaculty of PhysicsUniversity of WarsawPasteura 502093WarsawPoland
| | | | - Michal Kopcial
- Centre of New TechnologiesUniversity of WarsawBanacha 2c02097WarsawPoland
- College of Inter-Faculty Individual Studies in Mathematics and Natural SciencesUniversity of WarsawBanacha 2c02097WarsawPoland
| | - Victoria H. Cowling
- Centre of Gene Regulation and ExpressionSchool of Life SciencesUniversity of DundeeDD1 5EHDundeeUK
| | - Joanna Kowalska
- Division of BiophysicsInstitute of Experimental PhysicsFaculty of PhysicsUniversity of WarsawPasteura 502093WarsawPoland
| | - Jacek Jemielity
- Centre of New TechnologiesUniversity of WarsawBanacha 2c02097WarsawPoland
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20
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Weng Y, Li C, Yang T, Hu B, Zhang M, Guo S, Xiao H, Liang XJ, Huang Y. The challenge and prospect of mRNA therapeutics landscape. Biotechnol Adv 2020; 40:107534. [PMID: 32088327 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2020.107534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 193] [Impact Index Per Article: 48.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2019] [Revised: 02/05/2020] [Accepted: 02/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Messenger RNA (mRNA)-based therapeutics hold the potential to cause a major revolution in the pharmaceutical industry because they can be used for precise and individualized therapy, and enable patients to produce therapeutic proteins in their own bodies without struggling with the comprehensive manufacturing issues associated with recombinant proteins. Compared with the current therapeutics, the production of mRNA is much cost-effective, faster and more flexible because it can be easily produced by in vitro transcription, and the process is independent of mRNA sequence. Moreover, mRNA vaccines allow people to develop personalized medications based on sequencing results and/or personalized conditions rapidly. Along with the great potential from bench to bedside, technical obstacles facing mRNA pharmaceuticals are also obvious. The stability, immunogenicity, translation efficiency, and delivery are all pivotal issues need to be addressed. In the recently published research results, these issues are gradually being overcome by state-of-the-art development technologies. In this review, we describe the structural properties and modification technologies of mRNA, summarize the latest advances in developing mRNA delivery systems, review the preclinical and clinical applications, and put forward our views on the prospect and challenges of developing mRNA into a new class of drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhua Weng
- School of Life Science, Advanced Research Institute of Multidisciplinary Science, Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Institute of Engineering Medicine, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, PR China
| | - Chunhui Li
- School of Life Science, Advanced Research Institute of Multidisciplinary Science, Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Institute of Engineering Medicine, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, PR China
| | - Tongren Yang
- School of Life Science, Advanced Research Institute of Multidisciplinary Science, Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Institute of Engineering Medicine, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, PR China
| | - Bo Hu
- School of Life Science, Advanced Research Institute of Multidisciplinary Science, Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Institute of Engineering Medicine, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, PR China
| | - Mengjie Zhang
- School of Life Science, Advanced Research Institute of Multidisciplinary Science, Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Institute of Engineering Medicine, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, PR China
| | - Shuai Guo
- School of Life Science, Advanced Research Institute of Multidisciplinary Science, Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Institute of Engineering Medicine, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, PR China
| | - Haihua Xiao
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Polymer Physics and Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, PR China
| | - Xing-Jie Liang
- Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology of China, Beijing 100190, PR China
| | - Yuanyu Huang
- School of Life Science, Advanced Research Institute of Multidisciplinary Science, Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Institute of Engineering Medicine, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, PR China.
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21
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Abstract
Eukaryotic mRNAs possess 5' caps that are determinants for their function. A structural characteristic of 5' caps is methylation, with this feature already present in early eukaryotes such as Trypanosoma. While the common cap-0 (m7 GpppN) shows a rather simple methylation pattern, the Trypanosoma cap-4 displays seven distinguished additional methylations within the first four nucleotides. The study of essential biological functions mediated by these unique structural features of the cap-4 and thereby of the metabolism of an important class of human pathogenic parasites is hindered by the lack of reliable preparation methods. Herein we describe the synthesis of custom-made nucleoside phosphoramidite building blocks for m62 Am and m3 Um, their incorporation into short RNAs, the efficient construction of the 5'-to-5' triphosphate bridge to guanosine by using a solid-phase approach, the selective enzymatic methylation at position N7 of the inverted guanosine, and enzymatic ligation to generate trypanosomatid mRNAs of up to 40 nucleotides in length. This study introduces a reliable synthetic strategy to the much-needed cap-4 RNA probes for integrated structural biology studies, using a combination of chemical and enzymatic steps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josef Leiter
- University of InnsbruckInstitute of Organic Chemistry and Center for Molecular BiosciencesInnrain 80-826020InnsbruckAustria
| | - Dennis Reichert
- University of MünsterDepartment of ChemistryInstitute of BiochemistryWilhelm-Klemm-Strasse 248149MünsterGermany
| | - Andrea Rentmeister
- University of MünsterDepartment of ChemistryInstitute of BiochemistryWilhelm-Klemm-Strasse 248149MünsterGermany
| | - Ronald Micura
- University of InnsbruckInstitute of Organic Chemistry and Center for Molecular BiosciencesInnrain 80-826020InnsbruckAustria
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22
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Isoxazole-containing 5' mRNA cap analogues as inhibitors of the translation initiation process. Bioorg Chem 2020; 96:103583. [PMID: 31972465 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2020.103583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2019] [Revised: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 01/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Herein we describe a synthesis of new isoxazole-containing 5' mRNA cap analogues via a cycloaddition reaction. The obtained analogues show a capability to inhibit cap-dependent translation in vitro and are characterized by a new binding mode in which an isoxazolic ring, instead of guanine, is involved in the stacking effect. Our study provides valuable information toward designing new compounds that can be potentially used as anticancer therapeutics.
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23
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Muthmann N, Hartstock K, Rentmeister A. Chemo-enzymatic treatment of RNA to facilitate analyses. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS-RNA 2019; 11:e1561. [PMID: 31392842 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2019] [Revised: 06/17/2019] [Accepted: 07/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Labeling RNA is a recurring problem to make RNA compatible with state-of-the-art methodology and comes in many flavors. Considering only cellular applications, the spectrum still ranges from site-specific labeling of individual transcripts, for example, for live-cell imaging of mRNA trafficking, to metabolic labeling in combination with next generation sequencing to capture dynamic aspects of RNA metabolism on a transcriptome-wide scale. Combining the specificity of RNA-modifying enzymes with non-natural substrates has emerged as a valuable strategy to modify RNA site- or sequence-specifically with functional groups suitable for subsequent bioorthogonal reactions and thus label RNA with reporter moieties such as affinity or fluorescent tags. In this review article, we will cover chemo-enzymatic approaches (a) for in vitro labeling of RNA for application in cells, (b) for treatment of total RNA, and (c) for metabolic labeling of RNA. This article is categorized under: RNA Processing < RNA Editing and Modification RNA Methods < RNA Analyses in vitro and In Silico RNA Methods < RNA Analyses in Cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nils Muthmann
- Institute of Biochemistry, Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Katja Hartstock
- Institute of Biochemistry, Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Andrea Rentmeister
- Institute of Biochemistry, Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster, Münster, Germany
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24
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Trepotec Z, Geiger J, Plank C, Aneja MK, Rudolph C. Segmented poly(A) tails significantly reduce recombination of plasmid DNA without affecting mRNA translation efficiency or half-life. RNA (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2019; 25:507-518. [PMID: 30647100 PMCID: PMC6426288 DOI: 10.1261/rna.069286.118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2018] [Accepted: 12/22/2018] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Extensive research in the past decade has brought mRNA closer to the clinical realization of its therapeutic potential. One common structural feature for all cellular messenger RNAs is a poly(A) tail, which can either be brought in cotranscriptionally via the DNA template (plasmid- or PCR-based) or added to the mRNA in a post-transcriptional enzymatic process. Plasmids containing poly(A) regions recombine in E. coli, resulting in extensive shortening of the poly(A) tail. Using a segmented poly(A) approach, we could significantly reduce recombination of plasmids in E. coli without any negative effect on mRNA half-life and protein expression. This effect was independent of the coding sequence. A segmented poly(A) tail is characterized in that it consists of at least two A-containing elements, each defined as a nucleotide sequence consisting of 40-60 adenosines, separated by a spacer element of different length. Furthermore, reducing the spacer length between the poly(A) segments resulted in higher translation efficiencies compared to homogeneous poly(A) tail and reduced recombination (depending upon the choice of spacer nucleotide). Our results demonstrate the superior potential of segmented poly(A) tails compared to the conventionally used homogeneous poly(A) tails with respect to recombination of the plasmids and the resulting mRNA performance (half-life and translational efficiency).
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeljka Trepotec
- Department of Pediatrics, Ludwig-Maximilian-University of Munich, 80337 Munich, Germany
| | | | - Christian Plank
- Ethris GmbH, Planegg, 82152 Planegg, Germany
- Institute of Molecular Immunology and Experimental Oncology, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | | | - Carsten Rudolph
- Department of Pediatrics, Ludwig-Maximilian-University of Munich, 80337 Munich, Germany
- Ethris GmbH, Planegg, 82152 Planegg, Germany
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25
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Kasprzyk R, Starek BJ, Ciechanowicz S, Kubacka D, Kowalska J, Jemielity J. Fluorescent Turn-On Probes for the Development of Binding and Hydrolytic Activity Assays for mRNA Cap-Recognizing Proteins. Chemistry 2019; 25:6728-6740. [PMID: 30801798 DOI: 10.1002/chem.201900051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2019] [Revised: 02/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The m7 G cap is a unique nucleotide structure at the 5'-end of all eukaryotic mRNAs. The cap specifically interacts with numerous cellular proteins and participates in biological processes that are essential for cell growth and function. To provide small molecular probes to study important cap-recognizing proteins, we synthesized m7 G nucleotides labeled with fluorescent tags via the terminal phosph(on)ate group and studied how their emission properties changed upon protein binding or enzymatic cleavage. Only the pyrene-labeled compounds behaved as sensitive turn-on probes. A pyrene-labeled m7 GTP analogue showed up to eightfold enhanced fluorescence emission upon binding to eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E (eIF4E) and over 30-fold enhancement upon cleavage by decapping scavenger (DcpS) enzyme. These observations served as the basis for developing binding- and hydrolytic-activity assays. The assay utility was validated with previously characterized libraries of eIF4E ligands and DcpS inhibitors. The DcpS assay was also applied to study hydrolytic activity and inhibition of endogenous enzyme in cytoplasmic extracts from HeLa and HEK cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renata Kasprzyk
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2c, 02-097, Warsaw, Poland.,College of Inter-Faculty Individual Studies in Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2c, 02-097, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Beata J Starek
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Pasteura 5, 02-093, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Sylwia Ciechanowicz
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2c, 02-097, Warsaw, Poland.,College of Inter-Faculty Individual Studies in Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2c, 02-097, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Dorota Kubacka
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Pasteura 5, 02-093, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Joanna Kowalska
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Pasteura 5, 02-093, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jacek Jemielity
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2c, 02-097, Warsaw, Poland
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26
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Kaur T, Menon A, Garner AL. Synthesis of 7-benzylguanosine cap-analogue conjugates for eIF4E targeted degradation. Eur J Med Chem 2019; 166:339-350. [PMID: 30735900 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2019.01.080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2018] [Revised: 01/29/2019] [Accepted: 01/29/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E (eIF4E) is a key player in the initiation of cap-dependent translation through recognition of the m7GpppX cap at the 5' terminus of coding mRNAs. As eIF4E overexpression has been observed in a number of human diseases, most notably cancer, targeting this oncogenic translation initiation factor has emerged as a promising strategy for the development of novel anti-cancer therapeutics. Toward this end, in the present study, we have rationally designed a series of Bn7GxP-based PROTACs for the targeted degradation of eIF4E. Herein we describe our synthetic efforts, in addition to biochemical and cellular characterization of these compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanpreet Kaur
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, 1600 Huron Parkway, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Arya Menon
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, 1600 Huron Parkway, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Amanda L Garner
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, 1600 Huron Parkway, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA.
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27
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Bednarek S, Madan V, Sikorski PJ, Bartenschlager R, Kowalska J, Jemielity J. mRNAs biotinylated within the 5' cap and protected against decapping: new tools to capture RNA-protein complexes. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2018; 373:rstb.2018.0167. [PMID: 30397103 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2018.0167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/16/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The 5'-terminus of eukaryotic mRNAs comprises a 7-methylguanosine cap linked to the first transcribed nucleotide via a 5'-5' triphosphate bond. This cap structure facilitates numerous interactions with molecules participating in mRNA processing, turnover and RNA translation. Here, we report the synthesis and biochemical properties of a set of biotin-labelled cap analogues modified within the triphosphate bridge and increasing mRNA stability while retaining biological activity. Successful co-transcriptional incorporation of the cap analogues allowed for the quantification of cap-dependent translation efficiency, capping efficiency and the susceptibility to decapping by Dcp2. The utility of such cap-biotinylated RNAs as molecular tool was demonstrated by ultraviolet-cross-linking and affinity capture of protein-RNA complexes. In conclusion, RNAs labelled with biotin via the 5' cap structure can be applied to a variety of biological experiments based on biotin-avidin interaction or by means of biotin-specific antibodies, including protein affinity purification, pull-down assays, in vivo visualization, cellular delivery and many others.This article is part of the theme issue '5' and 3' modifications controlling RNA degradation'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylwia Bednarek
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Zwirki i Wigury 93, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland.,Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2c, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Vanesa Madan
- Department of Molecular Virology, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 344, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Pawel J Sikorski
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2c, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Ralf Bartenschlager
- Department of Molecular Virology, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 344, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Joanna Kowalska
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Zwirki i Wigury 93, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jacek Jemielity
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2c, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
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28
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Therapeutic Applications of Targeted Alternative Splicing to Cancer Treatment. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 19:ijms19010075. [PMID: 29283381 PMCID: PMC5796025 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19010075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2017] [Revised: 12/22/2017] [Accepted: 12/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
A growing body of studies has documented the pathological influence of impaired alternative splicing (AS) events on numerous diseases, including cancer. In addition, the generation of alternatively spliced isoforms is frequently noted to result in drug resistance in many cancer therapies. To gain comprehensive insights into the impacts of AS events on cancer biology and therapeutic developments, this paper highlights recent findings regarding the therapeutic routes of targeting alternative-spliced isoforms and splicing regulators to treatment strategies for distinct cancers.
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29
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Muttach F, Muthmann N, Rentmeister A. Synthetic mRNA capping. Beilstein J Org Chem 2017; 13:2819-2832. [PMID: 30018667 PMCID: PMC5753152 DOI: 10.3762/bjoc.13.274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2017] [Accepted: 12/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Eukaryotic mRNA with its 5'-cap is of central importance for the cell. Many studies involving mRNA require reliable preparation and modification of 5'-capped RNAs. Depending on the length of the desired capped RNA, chemical or enzymatic preparation - or a combination of both - can be advantageous. We review state-of-the art methods and give directions for choosing the appropriate approach. We also discuss the preparation and properties of mRNAs with non-natural caps providing novel features such as improved stability or enhanced translational efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabian Muttach
- University of Münster, Department of Chemistry, Institute of Biochemistry, Wilhelm-Klemm-Str. 2, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Nils Muthmann
- University of Münster, Department of Chemistry, Institute of Biochemistry, Wilhelm-Klemm-Str. 2, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Andrea Rentmeister
- University of Münster, Department of Chemistry, Institute of Biochemistry, Wilhelm-Klemm-Str. 2, 48149 Münster, Germany
- Cells-in-Motion Cluster of Excellence (EXC1003-CiM), University of Münster, Germany
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30
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Rydzik AM, Warminski M, Sikorski PJ, Baranowski MR, Walczak S, Kowalska J, Zuberek J, Lukaszewicz M, Nowak E, W Claridge TD, Darzynkiewicz E, Nowotny M, Jemielity J. mRNA cap analogues substituted in the tetraphosphate chain with CX2: identification of O-to-CCl2 as the first bridging modification that confers resistance to decapping without impairing translation. Nucleic Acids Res 2017; 45:8661-8675. [PMID: 28666355 PMCID: PMC5587727 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkx569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2016] [Accepted: 06/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Analogues of the mRNA 5'-cap are useful tools for studying mRNA translation and degradation, with emerging potential applications in novel therapeutic interventions including gene therapy. We report the synthesis of novel mono- and dinucleotide cap analogues containing dihalogenmethylenebisphosphonate moiety (i.e. one of the bridging O atom substituted with CCl2 or CF2) and their properties in the context of cellular translational and decapping machineries, compared to phosphate-unmodified and previously reported CH2-substituted caps. The analogues were bound tightly to eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E (eIF4E), with CCl2-substituted analogues having the highest affinity. When incorporated into mRNA, the CCl2-substituted dinucleotide most efficiently promoted cap-dependent translation. Moreover, the CCl2-analogues were potent inhibitors of translation in rabbit reticulocyte lysate. The crystal structure of eIF4E in complex with the CCl2-analogue revealed a significantly different ligand conformation compared to that of the unmodified cap analogue, which likely contributes to the improved binding. Both CCl2- and CF2- analogues showed lower susceptibility to hydrolysis by the decapping scavenger enzyme (DcpS) and, when incorporated into RNA, conferred stability against major cellular decapping enzyme (Dcp2) to transcripts. Furthermore, the use of difluoromethylene cap analogues was exemplified by the development of 19F NMR assays for DcpS activity and eIF4E binding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna M Rydzik
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Zwirki i Wigury 93, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland.,Chemistry Research Laboratory, University of Oxford, 12 Mansfield Road, Oxford OX1 3TA, UK
| | - Marcin Warminski
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Zwirki i Wigury 93, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Pawel J Sikorski
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2c, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marek R Baranowski
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Zwirki i Wigury 93, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Sylwia Walczak
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2c, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland.,College of Inter-Faculty Individual Studies in Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Warsaw, Zwirki i Wigury 93, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Joanna Kowalska
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Zwirki i Wigury 93, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Joanna Zuberek
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Zwirki i Wigury 93, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Maciej Lukaszewicz
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Zwirki i Wigury 93, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Elzbieta Nowak
- Laboratory of Protein Structure, International Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, 4 Ksiecia Trojdena Street, 02-109 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Timothy D W Claridge
- Chemistry Research Laboratory, University of Oxford, 12 Mansfield Road, Oxford OX1 3TA, UK
| | - Edward Darzynkiewicz
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Zwirki i Wigury 93, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland.,Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2c, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marcin Nowotny
- Laboratory of Protein Structure, International Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, 4 Ksiecia Trojdena Street, 02-109 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jacek Jemielity
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2c, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
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31
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Iavarone C, O'hagan DT, Yu D, Delahaye NF, Ulmer JB. Mechanism of action of mRNA-based vaccines. Expert Rev Vaccines 2017; 16:871-881. [PMID: 28701102 DOI: 10.1080/14760584.2017.1355245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 128] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The present review summarizes the growing body of work defining the mechanisms of action of this exciting new vaccine technology that should allow rational approaches in the design of next generation mRNA vaccines. Areas covered: Bio-distribution of mRNA, localization of antigen production, role of the innate immunity, priming of the adaptive immune response, route of administration and effects of mRNA delivery systems. Expert commentary: In the last few years, the development of RNA vaccines had a fast growth, the rising number of proof will enable rational approaches to improving the effectiveness and safety of this modern class of medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Dong Yu
- a GSK Vaccines , Rockville , MD , USA
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32
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Warminski M, Sikorski PJ, Kowalska J, Jemielity J. Applications of Phosphate Modification and Labeling to Study (m)RNA Caps. Top Curr Chem (Cham) 2017; 375:16. [PMID: 28116583 PMCID: PMC5396385 DOI: 10.1007/s41061-017-0106-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2016] [Accepted: 01/10/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The cap is a natural modification present at the 5' ends of eukaryotic messenger RNA (mRNA), which because of its unique structural features, mediates essential biological functions during the process of gene expression. The core structural feature of the mRNA cap is an N7-methylguanosine moiety linked by a 5'-5' triphosphate chain to the first transcribed nucleotide. Interestingly, other RNA 5' end modifications structurally and functionally resembling the m7G cap have been discovered in different RNA types and in different organisms. All these structures contain the 'inverted' 5'-5' oligophosphate bridge, which is necessary for interaction with specific proteins and also serves as a cleavage site for phosphohydrolases regulating RNA turnover. Therefore, cap analogs containing oligophosphate chain modifications or carrying spectroscopic labels attached to phosphate moieties serve as attractive molecular tools for studies on RNA metabolism and modification of natural RNA properties. Here, we review chemical, enzymatic, and chemoenzymatic approaches that enable preparation of modified cap structures and RNAs carrying such structures, with emphasis on phosphate-modified mRNA cap analogs and their potential applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcin Warminski
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Zwirki i Wigury 93, 02-089, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Pawel J Sikorski
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2c, 02-097, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Joanna Kowalska
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Zwirki i Wigury 93, 02-089, Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Jacek Jemielity
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2c, 02-097, Warsaw, Poland.
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33
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Walczak S, Nowicka A, Kubacka D, Fac K, Wanat P, Mroczek S, Kowalska J, Jemielity J. A novel route for preparing 5' cap mimics and capped RNAs: phosphate-modified cap analogues obtained via click chemistry. Chem Sci 2017; 8:260-267. [PMID: 28451173 PMCID: PMC5355871 DOI: 10.1039/c6sc02437h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2016] [Accepted: 08/10/2016] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The significant biological role of the mRNA 5' cap in translation initiation makes it an interesting subject for chemical modifications aimed at producing useful tools for the selective modulation of intercellular processes and development of novel therapeutic interventions. However, traditional approaches to the chemical synthesis of cap analogues are time-consuming and labour-intensive, which impedes the development of novel compounds and their applications. Here, we explore a different approach for synthesizing 5' cap mimics, making use of click chemistry (CuAAC) to combine two mononucleotide units and yield a novel class of dinucleotide cap analogues containing a triazole ring within the oligophosphate chain. As a result, we synthesized a library of 36 mRNA cap analogues differing in the location of the triazole ring, the polyphosphate chain length, and the type of linkers joining the phosphate and the triazole moieties. After biochemical evaluation, we identified two analogues that, when incorporated into mRNA, produced transcripts translated with efficiency similar to compounds unmodified in the oligophosphate bridge obtained by traditional synthesis. Moreover, we demonstrated that the triazole-modified cap structures can be generated at the RNA 5' end using two alternative capping strategies: either the typical co-transcriptional approach, or a new post-transcriptional approach based on CuAAC. Our findings open new possibilities for developing chemically modified mRNAs for research and therapeutic applications, including RNA-based vaccinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylwia Walczak
- Centre of New Technologies , University of Warsaw , Banacha 2c , 02-097 , Warsaw , Poland .
- College of Inter-Faculty Individual Studies in Mathematics and Natural Sciences , University of Warsaw , Banacha 2c , 02-097 , Warsaw , Poland
| | - Anna Nowicka
- Centre of New Technologies , University of Warsaw , Banacha 2c , 02-097 , Warsaw , Poland .
- Division of Biophysics , Institute of Experimental Physics , Faculty of Physics , University of Warsaw , Zwirki i Wigury 93 , 02-089 , Warsaw , Poland
| | - Dorota Kubacka
- Division of Biophysics , Institute of Experimental Physics , Faculty of Physics , University of Warsaw , Zwirki i Wigury 93 , 02-089 , Warsaw , Poland
| | - Kaja Fac
- Centre of New Technologies , University of Warsaw , Banacha 2c , 02-097 , Warsaw , Poland .
- College of Inter-Faculty Individual Studies in Mathematics and Natural Sciences , University of Warsaw , Banacha 2c , 02-097 , Warsaw , Poland
| | - Przemyslaw Wanat
- Division of Biophysics , Institute of Experimental Physics , Faculty of Physics , University of Warsaw , Zwirki i Wigury 93 , 02-089 , Warsaw , Poland
| | - Seweryn Mroczek
- Department of Genetics and Biotechnology , Faculty of Biology , University of Warsaw , 02-106 Warsaw , Poland
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics , Polish Academy of Sciences , 02-106 Warsaw , Poland
| | - Joanna Kowalska
- Division of Biophysics , Institute of Experimental Physics , Faculty of Physics , University of Warsaw , Zwirki i Wigury 93 , 02-089 , Warsaw , Poland
| | - Jacek Jemielity
- Centre of New Technologies , University of Warsaw , Banacha 2c , 02-097 , Warsaw , Poland .
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34
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Strenkowska M, Grzela R, Majewski M, Wnek K, Kowalska J, Lukaszewicz M, Zuberek J, Darzynkiewicz E, Kuhn AN, Sahin U, Jemielity J. Cap analogs modified with 1,2-dithiodiphosphate moiety protect mRNA from decapping and enhance its translational potential. Nucleic Acids Res 2016; 44:9578-9590. [PMID: 27903882 PMCID: PMC5175369 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkw896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2016] [Revised: 09/24/2016] [Accepted: 09/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Along with a growing interest in mRNA-based gene therapies, efforts are increasingly focused on reaching the full translational potential of mRNA, as a major obstacle for in vivo applications is sufficient expression of exogenously delivered mRNA. One method to overcome this limitation is chemically modifying the 7-methylguanosine cap at the 5′ end of mRNA (m7Gppp-RNA). We report a novel class of cap analogs designed as reagents for mRNA modification. The analogs carry a 1,2-dithiodiphosphate moiety at various positions along a tri- or tetraphosphate bridge, and thus are termed 2S analogs. These 2S analogs have high affinities for translation initiation factor 4E, and some exhibit remarkable resistance against the SpDcp1/2 decapping complex when introduced into RNA. mRNAs capped with 2S analogs combining these two features exhibit high translation efficiency in cultured human immature dendritic cells. These properties demonstrate that 2S analogs are potentially beneficial for mRNA-based therapies such as anti-cancer immunization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malwina Strenkowska
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Zwirki i Wigury 93 Warsaw 02-089, Poland
| | - Renata Grzela
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, S. Banacha 2c, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Maciej Majewski
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Zwirki i Wigury 93 Warsaw 02-089, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Wnek
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Zwirki i Wigury 93 Warsaw 02-089, Poland
| | - Joanna Kowalska
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Zwirki i Wigury 93 Warsaw 02-089, Poland
| | - Maciej Lukaszewicz
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Zwirki i Wigury 93 Warsaw 02-089, Poland
| | - Joanna Zuberek
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Zwirki i Wigury 93 Warsaw 02-089, Poland
| | - Edward Darzynkiewicz
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Zwirki i Wigury 93 Warsaw 02-089, Poland.,Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, S. Banacha 2c, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Andreas N Kuhn
- BioNTech RNA Pharmaceuticals GmbH, An der Goldgrube 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany.,Translational Oncology (TRON), Freiligrathstraße 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Ugur Sahin
- BioNTech RNA Pharmaceuticals GmbH, An der Goldgrube 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany.,Translational Oncology (TRON), Freiligrathstraße 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Jacek Jemielity
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, S. Banacha 2c, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
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35
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Gampe CM, Hollis-Symynkywicz M, Zécri F. Covalent Chemical 5'-Functionalization of RNA with Diazo Reagents. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2016; 55:10283-6. [PMID: 27431506 DOI: 10.1002/anie.201604385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2016] [Revised: 06/02/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Functionalization of RNA at the 5'-terminus is important for analytical and therapeutic purposes. Currently, these RNAs are synthesized de novo starting with a chemically functionalized 5'-nucleotide, which is incorporated into RNA using chemical synthesis or biochemical techniques. Methods for direct chemical modification of native RNA would provide an attractive alternative but are currently underexplored. Herein, we report that diazo compounds can be used to selectively alkylate the 5'-phosphate of ribo(oligo)nucleotides to give RNA labelled through a native phosphate ester bond. We applied this method to functionalize oligonucleotides with biotin and an orthosteric inhibitor of the eukaryotic initiation factor 4E (eIF4E), an enzyme involved in mRNA recognition. The modified RNA binds to eIF4E, demonstrating the utility of this labelling technique to modulate biological activity of RNA. This method complements existing techniques and may be used to chemically introduce a broad range of functional handles at the 5'-end of RNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian M Gampe
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, 181 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA.
| | - Micah Hollis-Symynkywicz
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, 181 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Frédéric Zécri
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, 181 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
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36
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Gampe CM, Hollis-Symynkywicz M, Zécri F. Covalent Chemical 5′-Functionalization of RNA with Diazo Reagents. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2016. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.201604385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Christian M. Gampe
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research; 181 Massachusetts Avenue Cambridge MA 02139 USA
| | | | - Frédéric Zécri
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research; 181 Massachusetts Avenue Cambridge MA 02139 USA
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37
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Kore AR, Bugarin A, Shanmugasundaram M. Design and Facile Synthesis of New Dinucleotide Cap Analog Containing Both 2' and 3'-OH Modification on M⁷Guanosine Moiety. NUCLEOSIDES NUCLEOTIDES & NUCLEIC ACIDS 2016; 34:611-9. [PMID: 26252630 DOI: 10.1080/15257770.2015.1041643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The first example of the synthesis of new dinucleotide cap analog containing 2('),3(')-diacetyl group on m(7)guanosine moiety is described. The desired modified cap analog, m(7,2)(')(,3)(')(-diacetyl)G[5(')]ppp[5(')]G has been obtained by the coupling reaction of triethylamine salt of m(7,2)(')(,3)(')(-diacetyl)GDP with ImGMP in presence of ZnCl2 as a catalyst in 62% yield with high purity. The structure of new cap analog has been confirmed by (1)H and (31)P NMR and mass data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anilkumar R Kore
- a Life Sciences Solutions Group, Thermo Fisher Scientific , Austin , Texas , USA
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38
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Ziemniak M, Mugridge JS, Kowalska J, Rhoads RE, Gross JD, Jemielity J. Two-headed tetraphosphate cap analogs are inhibitors of the Dcp1/2 RNA decapping complex. RNA (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2016; 22:518-29. [PMID: 26826132 PMCID: PMC4793208 DOI: 10.1261/rna.055152.115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2015] [Accepted: 12/10/2015] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Dcp1/2 is the major eukaryotic RNA decapping complex, comprised of the enzyme Dcp2 and activator Dcp1, which removes the 5' m(7)G cap from mRNA, committing the transcript to degradation. Dcp1/2 activity is crucial for RNA quality control and turnover, and deregulation of these processes may lead to disease development. The molecular details of Dcp1/2 catalysis remain elusive, in part because both cap substrate (m(7)GpppN) and m(7)GDP product are bound by Dcp1/2 with weak (mM) affinity. In order to find inhibitors to use in elucidating the catalytic mechanism of Dcp2, we screened a small library of synthetic m(7)G nucleotides (cap analogs) bearing modifications in the oligophosphate chain. One of the most potent cap analogs, m(7)GpSpppSm(7)G, inhibited Dcp1/2 20 times more efficiently than m(7)GpppN or m(7)GDP. NMR experiments revealed that the compound interacts with specific surfaces of both regulatory and catalytic domains of Dcp2 with submillimolar affinities. Kinetics analysis revealed that m(7)GpSpppSm(7)G is a mixed inhibitor that competes for the Dcp2 active site with micromolar affinity. m(7)GpSpppSm(7)G-capped RNA undergoes rapid decapping, suggesting that the compound may act as a tightly bound cap mimic. Our identification of the first small molecule inhibitor of Dcp2 should be instrumental in future studies aimed at understanding the structural basis of RNA decapping and may provide insight toward the development of novel therapeutically relevant decapping inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcin Ziemniak
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jeffrey S Mugridge
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94158, USA
| | - Joanna Kowalska
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Robert E Rhoads
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, Louisiana 71130-3932, USA
| | - John D Gross
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94158, USA
| | - Jacek Jemielity
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
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39
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Kasprzyk R, Kowalska J, Wieczorek Z, Szabelski M, Stolarski R, Jemielity J. Acetylpyrene-labelled 7-methylguanine nucleotides: unusual fluorescence properties and application to decapping scavenger activity monitoring. Org Biomol Chem 2016; 14:3863-8. [PMID: 26975842 DOI: 10.1039/c6ob00419a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
7-Methylguanosine (m(7)G) nucleotides labelled with acetylpyrene (AcPy) were synthesized as fluorescent mRNA 5' end (cap) analogues. The unique fluorescent properties of m(7)G-AcPy conjugates, different from G-AcPy, can be applied to studying various mRNA cap-related processes including the evaluation of putative inhibitors of DcpS enzyme-a therapeutic target in neuromuscular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renata Kasprzyk
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland.
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40
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Shanmugasundaram M, Charles I, Kore AR. Design, synthesis and biological evaluation of dinucleotide mRNA cap analog containing propargyl moiety. Bioorg Med Chem 2016; 24:1204-8. [PMID: 26899596 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2016.01.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2015] [Revised: 01/15/2016] [Accepted: 01/25/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
The first example of the synthesis of new dinucleotide cap analog containing propargyl group such as m(7,3'-O-propargyl)G[5']ppp[5']G is reported. The effect of propargyl cap analog with standard cap was evaluated with respect to their capping efficiency, in vitro T7 RNA polymerase transcription efficiency, and translation activity using cultured HeLa cells. It is noteworthy that propargyl cap analog outperforms standard cap by 3.1 fold in terms of translational properties. The propargyl cap analog forms a more stable complex with translation initiation factor eIF4E based on the molecular modeling studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muthian Shanmugasundaram
- Life Sciences Solutions Group, Thermo Fisher Scientific, 2130 Woodward Street, Austin, TX 78744-1832, USA
| | - Irudaya Charles
- Life Sciences Solutions Group, Thermo Fisher Scientific, 2130 Woodward Street, Austin, TX 78744-1832, USA
| | - Anilkumar R Kore
- Life Sciences Solutions Group, Thermo Fisher Scientific, 2130 Woodward Street, Austin, TX 78744-1832, USA.
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41
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Wojtczak BA, Warminski M, Kowalska J, Lukaszewicz M, Honcharenko M, Smith CIE, Strömberg R, Darzynkiewicz E, Jemielity J. Clickable trimethylguanosine cap analogs modified within the triphosphate bridge: synthesis, conjugation to RNA and susceptibility to degradation. RSC Adv 2016. [DOI: 10.1039/c5ra25684d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Phosphate-modified m3G cap analogs were synthesized, conjugated to RNA using “click chemistry”, and studied for susceptibility to hNUDT16 enzyme.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marcin Warminski
- Division of Biophysics
- Institute of Experimental Physics
- Faculty of Physics
- University of Warsaw
- Poland
| | - Joanna Kowalska
- Division of Biophysics
- Institute of Experimental Physics
- Faculty of Physics
- University of Warsaw
- Poland
| | - Maciej Lukaszewicz
- Division of Biophysics
- Institute of Experimental Physics
- Faculty of Physics
- University of Warsaw
- Poland
| | | | - C. I. Edvard Smith
- Department of Laboratory Medicine
- Karolinska Institutet
- Karolinska University Hospital
- Sweden
| | - Roger Strömberg
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition
- Karolinska Institutet
- Sweden
| | | | - Jacek Jemielity
- Centre of New Technologies
- University of Warsaw
- 02-089 Warsaw
- Poland
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42
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Chen B, Zhang B, Xia L, Zhang J, Chen Y, Hu Q, Zhu C. Knockdown of eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E suppresses cell growth and invasion, and induces apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in a human lung adenocarcinoma cell line. Mol Med Rep 2015; 12:7971-8. [PMID: 26498338 PMCID: PMC4758288 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2015.4468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2014] [Accepted: 09/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E (eIF4E) was shown to be upregulated in malignant human tumors. To assess the effect of downregulation of eIF4E on the proliferation and invasiveness of a human lung adenocarcinoma cell line, a short hairpin (sh)RNA targeting eIF4E was constructed and transfected into A549 human lung adenocarcinoma cells. The expression of eIF4E was determined by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blotting. Cell viability was assessed using a Cell Counting kit-8, and apoptosis levels and cell cycle distribution were assessed by flow cytometry. Invasiveness was assessed using Transwell chambers. Transfection of the A549 cells with eIF4E targeting shRNA reduced the mRNA and protein expression levels of eIF4E by >70% 48 and 72 h following transfection, and eIF4E targeting shRNA-transfected cells were significantly less viable compared with the cells transfected with scrambled shRNA. The rate of apoptosis was also significantly increased, significantly more cells were in the G0/G1 phase and fewer were in the S phase, indicating cell cycle arrest. The fraction of transfected cells migrating across Transwell inserts were also reduced. In conclusion, inhibition of eIF4E suppressed cell growth and invasion, induced apoptosis and cell cycle arrest, suggesting that eIF4E may be a potential therapeutic target in lung adenocarcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baofu Chen
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Taizhou Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, Zhejiang 317000, P.R. China
| | - Bo Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Taizhou Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, Zhejiang 317000, P.R. China
| | - Lilong Xia
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Zhejiang Hospital, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310013, P.R. China
| | - Jian Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Taizhou Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, Zhejiang 317000, P.R. China
| | - Yu Chen
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Taizhou Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, Zhejiang 317000, P.R. China
| | - Quanteng Hu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Taizhou Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, Zhejiang 317000, P.R. China
| | - Chengchu Zhu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Taizhou Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, Zhejiang 317000, P.R. China
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43
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Ziemniak M, Kowalska J, Lukaszewicz M, Zuberek J, Wnek K, Darzynkiewicz E, Jemielity J. Phosphate-modified analogues of m(7)GTP and m(7)Gppppm(7)G-Synthesis and biochemical properties. Bioorg Med Chem 2015; 23:5369-81. [PMID: 26264844 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2015.07.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2015] [Revised: 07/24/2015] [Accepted: 07/25/2015] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
The synthesis and biochemical properties of 17 new mRNA cap analogues are reported. Six of these nucleotides are m(7)GTP derivatives, whereas 11 are 'two headed' tetraphosphate dinucleotides based on a m(7)Gppppm(7)G structure. The compounds contain either a boranophosphate or phosphorothioate moiety in the nucleoside neighbouring position(s) and some of them possess an additional methylene group between β and γ phosphorus atoms. The compounds were prepared by divalent metal chloride-mediated coupling of an appropriate m(7)GMP analogue with a given P(1),P(2)-di(1-imidazolyl) derivative. The analogues were evaluated as tools for studying cap-dependent processes in a number of biochemical assays, including determination of affinity to eukaryotic initiation factor eIF4E, susceptibility to enzymatic hydrolysis, and translational efficiency in vitro. The results indicate that modification in the phosphate chain can increase binding to cap-interacting proteins and provides higher resistance to degradation. Furthermore, modified derivatives of m(7)GTP were found to be potent inhibitors of cap-dependent translation in cell free systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcin Ziemniak
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Zwirki i Wigury 93, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Joanna Kowalska
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Zwirki i Wigury 93, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Maciej Lukaszewicz
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Zwirki i Wigury 93, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Joanna Zuberek
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Zwirki i Wigury 93, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Wnek
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Zwirki i Wigury 93, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Edward Darzynkiewicz
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Zwirki i Wigury 93, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland; Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2c, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jacek Jemielity
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2c, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland.
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44
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Warminski M, Warminska Z, Kowalska J, Jemielity J. mRNA Cap Modification through Carbamate Chemistry: Synthesis of Amino- and Carboxy-Functionalised Cap Analogues Suitable for Labelling and Bioconjugation. European J Org Chem 2015. [DOI: 10.1002/ejoc.201500672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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45
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Zytek M, Kowalska J, Lukaszewicz M, Wojtczak BA, Zuberek J, Ferenc-Mrozek A, Darzynkiewicz E, Niedzwiecka A, Jemielity J. Towards novel efficient and stable nuclear import signals: synthesis and properties of trimethylguanosine cap analogs modified within the 5',5'-triphosphate bridge. Org Biomol Chem 2015; 12:9184-99. [PMID: 25296894 DOI: 10.1039/c4ob01579g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
A trimethylguanosine (TMG) cap is present at the 5' end of several small nuclear and nucleolar RNAs. Recently, it has been reported that the TMG cap is a potential nuclear import signal for nucleus-targeting therapeutic nucleic acids and proteins. The import is mediated by recognition of the TMG cap by the snRNA transporting protein, snurportin1. This work describes the synthesis and properties of a series of dinucleotide TMG cap (m3(2,2,7)GpppG) analogs modified in the 5',5'-triphosphate bridge as tools to study TMG cap-dependent biological processes. The bridge was altered at different positions by introducing either bridging (imidodiphosphate, O to NH and methylenebisphosphonate, O to CH2) or non-bridging (phosphorothioate, O to S and boranophosphate, O to BH3) modifications, or by elongation to tetraphosphate. The stability of novel analogs in blood serum was studied to reveal that the α,β-bridging O to NH substitution (m3(2,2,7)GppNHpG) confers the highest resistance. Short RNAs capped with analogs containing α,β-bridging (m3(2,2,7)GppNHpG) or β-non-bridging (m3(2,2,7)GppSpG D2) modifications were resistant to decapping pyrophosphatase, hNudt16. Preliminary studies on binding by human snurportin1 revealed that both O to NH and O to S substitutions support this binding. Due to favorable properties in all three assays, m3(2,2,7)GppNHpG was selected as a promising candidate for further studies on the efficiency of the TMG cap as a nuclear import signal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malgorzata Zytek
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Zwirki i Wigury 93, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland.
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46
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Kijewska K, Głowala P, Kowalska J, Jemielity J, Kaczyńska K, Janiszewska K, Stolarski J, Blanchard GJ, Kępińska D, Lubelska K, Wiktorska K, Pisarek M, Mazur M. Gold-decorated polymer vessel structures as carriers of mRNA cap analogs. POLYMER 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.polymer.2014.12.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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47
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Kubacka D, Miguel RN, Minshall N, Darzynkiewicz E, Standart N, Zuberek J. Distinct features of cap binding by eIF4E1b proteins. J Mol Biol 2014; 427:387-405. [PMID: 25463438 PMCID: PMC4306533 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2014.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2014] [Revised: 11/05/2014] [Accepted: 11/10/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
eIF4E1b, closely related to the canonical translation initiation factor 4E (eIF4E1a), cap-binding protein is highly expressed in mouse, Xenopus and zebrafish oocytes. We have previously characterized eIF4E1b as a component of the CPEB mRNP translation repressor complex along with the eIF4E-binding protein 4E-Transporter, the Xp54/DDX6 RNA helicase and additional RNA-binding proteins. eIF4E1b exhibited only very weak interactions with m7GTP-Sepharose and, rather than binding eIF4G, interacted with 4E-T. Here we undertook a detailed examination of both Xenopus and human eIF4E1b interactions with cap analogues using fluorescence titration and homology modeling. The predicted structure of eIF4E1b maintains the α + β fold characteristic of eIF4E proteins and its cap-binding pocket is similarly arranged by critical amino acids: Trp56, Trp102, Glu103, Trp166, Arg112, Arg157 and Lys162 and residues of the C-terminal loop. However, we demonstrate that eIF4E1b is 3-fold less well able to bind the cap than eIF4E1a, both proteins being highly stimulated by methylation at N7 of guanine. Moreover, eIF4E1b proteins are distinguishable from eIF4E1a by a set of conserved amino acid substitutions, several of which are located near to cap-binding residues. Indeed, eIF4E1b possesses several distinct features, namely, enhancement of cap binding by a benzyl group at N7 position of guanine, a reduced response to increasing length of the phosphate chain and increased binding to a cap separated by a linker from Sepharose, suggesting differences in the arrangement of the protein's core. In agreement, mutagenesis of the amino acids differentiating eIF4E1b from eIF4E1a reduces cap binding by eIF4E1a 2-fold, demonstrating their role in modulating cap binding. Sequence analysis of vertebrate eIF4E1a and eIF4E1b proteins identified a set of conserved substitutions, including those near to cap-binding residues. The fluorescence titration assay revealed that human and Xenopus eIF4E1b have 3-fold lower affinity for m7GTP than the eIF4E1a proteins. Additional distinct features of cap binding by eIF4E1b suggest differences in the arrangement of the protein's core and its C-terminal loop. Mutagenesis of the distinguishing amino acids reduced cap binding by eIF4E1a 2-fold, demonstrating their role in modulating affinity to m7GTP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorota Kubacka
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Warsaw 02-089, Poland.
| | - Ricardo Núñez Miguel
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1QW, UK.
| | - Nicola Minshall
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1QW, UK.
| | - Edward Darzynkiewicz
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Warsaw 02-089, Poland; Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Warsaw 02-089, Poland.
| | - Nancy Standart
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1QW, UK.
| | - Joanna Zuberek
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Warsaw 02-089, Poland.
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48
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Abstract
mRNA is the central molecule of all forms of life. It is generally accepted that current life on Earth descended from an RNA world. mRNA, after its first therapeutic description in 1992, has recently come into increased focus as a method to deliver genetic information. The recent solution to the two main difficulties in using mRNA as a therapeutic, immune stimulation and potency, has provided the basis for a wide range of applications. While mRNA-based cancer immunotherapies have been in clinical trials for a few years, novel approaches; including, in vivo delivery of mRNA to replace or supplement proteins, mRNA-based generation of pluripotent stem cells, or genome engineering using mRNA-encoded meganucleases are beginning to be realized. This review presents the current state of mRNA drug technologies and potential applications, as well as discussing the challenges and prospects in mRNA development and drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Drew Weissman
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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49
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Piecyk K, Lukaszewicz M, Darzynkiewicz E, Jankowska-Anyszka M. Triazole-containing monophosphate mRNA cap analogs as effective translation inhibitors. RNA (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2014; 20:1539-47. [PMID: 25150228 PMCID: PMC4174436 DOI: 10.1261/rna.046193.114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2014] [Accepted: 07/14/2014] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic analogs of the 5' end of mRNA (cap structure) are widely used in molecular studies on mechanisms of cellular processes such as translation, intracellular transport, splicing, and turnover. The best-characterized cap binding protein is translation initiation factor 4E (eIF4E). Recognition of the mRNA cap by eIF4E is a critical, rate-limiting step for efficient translation initiation and is considered a major target for anticancer therapy. Here, we report a facile methodology for the preparation of N2-triazole-containing monophosphate cap analogs and present their biological evaluation as inhibitors of protein synthesis. Five analogs possessing this unique hetero-cyclic ring spaced from the m7-guanine of the cap structure at a distance of one or three carbon atoms and/or additionally substituted by various groups containing the benzene ring were synthesized. All obtained compounds turned out to be effective translation inhibitors with IC50 similar to dinucleotide triphosphate m(7)GpppG. As these compounds possess a reduced number of phosphate groups and, thereby, a negative charge, which may support their cell penetration, this type of cap analog might be promising in terms of designing new potential therapeutic molecules. In addition, an exemplary dinucleotide from a corresponding mononucleotide containing benzyl substituted 1,2,3-triazole was prepared and examined. The superior inhibitory properties of this analog (10-fold vs. m(7)GpppG) suggest the usefulness of such compounds for the preparation of mRNA transcripts with high translational activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolina Piecyk
- Faculty of Chemistry, University of Warsaw, 02-093, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Maciej Lukaszewicz
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, 02-089, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Edward Darzynkiewicz
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, 02-089, Warsaw, Poland Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, 02-097, Warsaw, Poland
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50
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Kowalska J, Wypijewska del Nogal A, Darzynkiewicz ZM, Buck J, Nicola C, Kuhn AN, Lukaszewicz M, Zuberek J, Strenkowska M, Ziemniak M, Maciejczyk M, Bojarska E, Rhoads RE, Darzynkiewicz E, Sahin U, Jemielity J. Synthesis, properties, and biological activity of boranophosphate analogs of the mRNA cap: versatile tools for manipulation of therapeutically relevant cap-dependent processes. Nucleic Acids Res 2014; 42:10245-64. [PMID: 25150148 PMCID: PMC4176373 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gku757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Modified mRNA cap analogs aid in the study of mRNA-related processes and may enable creation of novel therapeutic interventions. We report the synthesis and properties of 11 dinucleotide cap analogs bearing a single boranophosphate modification at either the α-, β- or γ-position of the 5',5'-triphosphate chain. The compounds can potentially serve either as inhibitors of translation in cancer cells or reagents for increasing expression of therapeutic proteins in vivo from exogenous mRNAs. The BH3-analogs were tested as substrates and binding partners for two major cytoplasmic cap-binding proteins, DcpS, a decapping pyrophosphatase, and eIF4E, a translation initiation factor. The susceptibility to DcpS was different between BH3-analogs and the corresponding analogs containing S instead of BH3 (S-analogs). Depending on its placement, the boranophosphate group weakened the interaction with DcpS but stabilized the interaction with eIF4E. The first of the properties makes the BH3-analogs more stable and the second, more potent as inhibitors of protein biosynthesis. Protein expression in dendritic cells was 2.2- and 1.7-fold higher for mRNAs capped with m2 (7,2'-O)GppBH3pG D1 and m2 (7,2'-O)GppBH3pG D2, respectively, than for in vitro transcribed mRNA capped with m2 (7,3'-O)GpppG. Higher expression of cancer antigens would make mRNAs containing m2 (7,2'-O)GppBH3pG D1 and m2 (7,2'-O)GppBH3pG D2 favorable for anticancer immunization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Kowalska
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Anna Wypijewska del Nogal
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Zbigniew M Darzynkiewicz
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Janina Buck
- BioNTech RNA Pharmaceuticals GmbH, Mainz, Germany
| | | | - Andreas N Kuhn
- BioNTech RNA Pharmaceuticals GmbH, Mainz, Germany TRON-Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center Mainz, Germany
| | - Maciej Lukaszewicz
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Joanna Zuberek
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Malwina Strenkowska
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marcin Ziemniak
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | | | | | - Robert E Rhoads
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, LSU Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, LA 71130, USA
| | - Edward Darzynkiewicz
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Poland
| | - Ugur Sahin
- BioNTech RNA Pharmaceuticals GmbH, Mainz, Germany TRON-Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center Mainz, Germany
| | - Jacek Jemielity
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Poland
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