Interference RNA in immune-mediated oral diseases - minireview

RNA Interference Ex Vivo

RNA interference (RNAi) is a widely used technique to regulate the expression of genes and proteins with a high degree of specificity that is not easily accessed by traditional pharmacological approaches. For preclinical research on rheumatoid arthritis (RA), silencing of target genes in primary immune cells can be easily achieved by the application of small interfering RNA (siRNA) and synthetic short hairpin RNA (shRNA). Cellular and systemic administration of siRNA or shRNA has been a significant advance in preclinical research on RA. In this chapter, the basic techniques for gene silencing in human-derived peripheral T cells using liposome-dependent siRNA transfection and lentiviral-mediated shRNA delivery, aiming at gene silencing of therapeutic targets, are introduced.

Advancement in therapeutic strategies for immune-mediated oral diseases

BACKGROUND

Immune-mediated diseases are a diverse group of conditions characterized by alteration of cellular homeostasis and inflammation triggered by dysregulation of the normal immune response. Several immune-mediated diseases exhibit oral signs and symptoms. Traditionally, these conditions are treated with corticosteroids or immunosuppressive agents, including azathioprine, cyclophosphamide, and thalidomide. Recent research into the developmental pathways of these diseases has led to the exploration of novel approaches in treatment. This review examines newer treatment modalities for the management of immune-mediated diseases with oral presentations. Topical calcineurin inhibitors (TCIs) such as tacrolimus and pimecrolimus have been employed successfully in managing oral lichen planus and pemphigus vulgaris. Biologic agents, comprising monoclonal antibodies, fusion proteins, and recombinant cytokines, can provide targeted therapy with fewer adverse effects. Neutraceutical agents comprising aloe vera, curcumin, and honey are commonly used in traditional medicine and offer a holistic approach. They may have a place as adjuvants to current standard therapeutic protocols. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) and low-level laser therapy (LLLT) utilize a specific wavelength of light to achieve desired cellular change. While the use of PDT in immune-mediated diseases is contentious, LLLT has shown positive results. Newer therapeutic modalities involve kinase inhibitors, S1P₁ receptor modulators, MSCs, and iRNA providing targeted treatment of specific diseases.

RNA Interference Ex Vivo

RNA interference (RNAi) is a widely used technique to regulate the expression of genes and proteins with a high degree of specificity that is not easily accessed by traditional pharmacological approaches. For preclinical research on rheumatoid arthritis (RA), silencing of target genes in primary immune cells can be easily achieved by application of small interfering RNA (siRNA) and synthetic short hairpin RNA (shRNA). Cellular and systemic administration of siRNA or shRNA has been a significant advance in preclinical research on RA. In this chapter, the basic techniques for gene silencing in human-derived peripheral T cells using liposome-dependent siRNA transfection and lentiviral-mediated shRNA delivery, aiming at gene silencing of therapeutic targets, are introduced.