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Bhati V, Prasad S, Kabra A. RNA-based therapies for neurodegenerative disease: Targeting molecular mechanisms for disease modification. Mol Cell Neurosci 2025; 133:104010. [PMID: 40340000 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcn.2025.104010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2025] [Revised: 04/23/2025] [Accepted: 04/30/2025] [Indexed: 05/10/2025] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), and Huntington's disease (HD) are characterized by progressive neuronal damage, protein aggregation, and chronic inflammation, leading to cognitive and motor impairments. Despite symptomatic relief from current therapies, disease-modifying treatments targeting the core molecular mechanism are still lacking. RNA-based therapies offer a promising approach to treating neurodegenerative disease by targeting molecular mechanisms such as gene expression, protein synthesis, and neuroinflammation. Therapeutic strategies include Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA), Antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), RNA interference (RNAi), small interfering RNA (siRNA) and short hairpin RNA (shRNA), messenger RNA (mRNA) therapies, and microRNA (miRNA)-based interventions. These therapies aim to decrease toxic protein accumulation, restore deficient proteins, and modulate inflammatory responses in conditions like AD, PD, and HD. Unlike conventional treatments that primarily manage symptoms, RNA-based therapies have the potential to modify disease progression by addressing its root causes. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of current RNA-based therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative diseases, discussing their mechanism of action, preclinical and clinical advancement. It further explores innovative solutions, including nanocarrier-mediated delivery, chemical modifications to enhance RNA stability, and personalized medicine approaches guided by genetic profiling that are being developed to overcome these barriers. This review also underscores the therapeutic opportunities and current limitations of RNA-based interventions, highlighting their potential to transform the future of neurodegenerative disease management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vishal Bhati
- University Institute of Pharma Sciences, Chandigarh University, Mohali-140413, Punjab, India
| | - Sonima Prasad
- University Institute of Pharma Sciences, Chandigarh University, Mohali-140413, Punjab, India
| | - Atul Kabra
- University Institute of Pharma Sciences, Chandigarh University, Mohali-140413, Punjab, India.
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2
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Galluzzi L, Spada S. Epigenetic regulation of cancer. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2025; 390:xiii-xvii. [PMID: 39864898 DOI: 10.1016/s1937-6448(25)00015-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2025]
Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Galluzzi
- Cancer Signaling and Microenvironment Program, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA, United States.
| | - Sheila Spada
- Tumor Immunology and Immunotherapy Unit, IRCCS-Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy.
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Qi S, Wang H, Liu G, Qin Q, Gao P, Ying B. Efficient circularization of protein-encoding RNAs via a novel cis-splicing system. Nucleic Acids Res 2024; 52:10400-10415. [PMID: 39162233 PMCID: PMC11417360 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkae711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2024] [Revised: 07/24/2024] [Accepted: 08/16/2024] [Indexed: 08/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have emerged as a promising alternative to linear mRNA, owing to their unique properties and potential therapeutic applications, driving the development of novel approaches for their production. This study introduces a cis-splicing system that efficiently produces circRNAs by incorporating a ribozyme core at one end of the precursor, thereby eliminating the need for additional spacer elements between the ribozyme and the gene of interest (GOI). In this cis-splicing system, sequences resembling homologous arms at both ends of the precursor are crucial for forming the P9.0 duplex, which in turn facilitates effective self-splicing and circularization. We demonstrate that the precise recognition of the second transesterification site depends more on the structural characteristics of P9.0 adjacent to the ωG position than on the nucleotide composition of the P9.0-ωG itself. Further optimization of structural elements, like P10 and P1-ex, significantly improves circularization efficiency. The circRNAs generated through the cis-splicing system exhibit prolonged protein expression and minimal activation of the innate immune response. This study provides a comprehensive exploration of circRNA generation via a novel strategy and offers valuable insights into the structural engineering of RNA, paving the way for future advancements in circRNA-based applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaojun Qi
- Department of mRNA Sciences, Suzhou Abogen Biosciences Co., Ltd., Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Huiming Wang
- Department of mRNA Sciences, Suzhou Abogen Biosciences Co., Ltd., Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Guopeng Liu
- Department of mRNA Sciences, Suzhou Abogen Biosciences Co., Ltd., Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Qianshan Qin
- Department of mRNA Sciences, Suzhou Abogen Biosciences Co., Ltd., Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Peng Gao
- Department of mRNA Sciences, Suzhou Abogen Biosciences Co., Ltd., Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Bo Ying
- Department of mRNA Sciences, Suzhou Abogen Biosciences Co., Ltd., Suzhou 215123, China
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Monfrini E, Baso G, Ronchi D, Meneri M, Gagliardi D, Quetti L, Verde F, Ticozzi N, Ratti A, Di Fonzo A, Comi GP, Ottoboni L, Corti S. Unleashing the potential of mRNA therapeutics for inherited neurological diseases. Brain 2024; 147:2934-2945. [PMID: 38662782 PMCID: PMC11969220 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awae135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2023] [Revised: 03/10/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Neurological monogenic loss-of-function diseases are hereditary disorders resulting from gene mutations that decrease or abolish the normal function of the encoded protein. These conditions pose significant therapeutic challenges, which may be resolved through the development of innovative therapeutic strategies. RNA-based technologies, such as mRNA replacement therapy, have emerged as promising and increasingly viable treatments. Notably, mRNA therapy exhibits significant potential as a mutation-agnostic approach that can address virtually any monogenic loss-of-function disease. Therapeutic mRNA carries the information for a healthy copy of the defective protein, bypassing the problem of targeting specific genetic variants. Moreover, unlike conventional gene therapy, mRNA-based drugs are delivered through a simplified process that requires only transfer to the cytoplasm, thereby reducing the mutagenic risks related to DNA integration. Additionally, mRNA therapy exerts a transient effect on target cells, minimizing the risk of long-term unintended consequences. The remarkable success of mRNA technology for developing coronavirus disease 2019 vaccines has rekindled interest in mRNA as a cost-effective method for delivering therapeutic proteins. However, further optimization is required to enhance mRNA delivery, particularly to the CNS, while minimizing adverse drug reactions and toxicity. In this comprehensive review, we delve into past, present and ongoing applications of mRNA therapy for neurological monogenic loss-of-function diseases. We also discuss the promises and potential challenges presented by mRNA therapeutics in this rapidly advancing field. Ultimately, we underscore the full potential of mRNA therapy as a game-changing therapeutic approach for neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edoardo Monfrini
- Neurology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan 20122, Italy
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation (DEPT), Dino Ferrari Centre, University of Milan, Milan 20122, Italy
| | - Giacomo Baso
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation (DEPT), Dino Ferrari Centre, University of Milan, Milan 20122, Italy
| | - Dario Ronchi
- Neurology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan 20122, Italy
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation (DEPT), Dino Ferrari Centre, University of Milan, Milan 20122, Italy
| | - Megi Meneri
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation (DEPT), Dino Ferrari Centre, University of Milan, Milan 20122, Italy
- Stroke Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan 20122, Italy
| | - Delia Gagliardi
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation (DEPT), Dino Ferrari Centre, University of Milan, Milan 20122, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Quetti
- Neurology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan 20122, Italy
| | - Federico Verde
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation (DEPT), Dino Ferrari Centre, University of Milan, Milan 20122, Italy
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neuroscience, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan 20149, Italy
| | - Nicola Ticozzi
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation (DEPT), Dino Ferrari Centre, University of Milan, Milan 20122, Italy
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neuroscience, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan 20149, Italy
| | - Antonia Ratti
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neuroscience, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan 20149, Italy
- Department Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan 20100, Italy
| | - Alessio Di Fonzo
- Neurology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan 20122, Italy
| | - Giacomo P Comi
- Neurology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan 20122, Italy
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation (DEPT), Dino Ferrari Centre, University of Milan, Milan 20122, Italy
| | - Linda Ottoboni
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation (DEPT), Dino Ferrari Centre, University of Milan, Milan 20122, Italy
| | - Stefania Corti
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation (DEPT), Dino Ferrari Centre, University of Milan, Milan 20122, Italy
- Department of Neuroscience, Neuromuscular and Rare Diseases Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan 20122, Italy
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Kenoosh HA, Pallathadka H, Hjazi A, Al-Dhalimy AMB, Zearah SA, Ghildiyal P, Al-Mashhadani ZI, Mustafa YF, Hizam MM, Elawady A. Recent advances in mRNA-based vaccine for cancer therapy; bench to bedside. Cell Biochem Funct 2024; 42:e3954. [PMID: 38403905 DOI: 10.1002/cbf.3954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
The messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines have progressed from a theoretical concept to a clinical reality over the last few decades. Compared to conventional vaccination methods, these vaccines have a number of benefits, such as substantial potency, rapid growth, inexpensive production, and safe administration. Nevertheless, their usefulness was restricted up to now due to worries about the erratic and ineffective circulation of mRNA in vivo. Thankfully, these worries have largely been allayed by recent technological developments, which have led to the creation of multiple mRNA vaccination platforms for cancer and viral infections. The mRNA vaccines have been demonstrated as a powerful alternative to traditional conventional vaccines because of their high potency, safety and efficacy, capacity for rapid clinical development, and potential for rapid, low-cost manufacturing. The paper will examine the present status of mRNA vaccine technology and suggest future paths for the advancement and application of this exciting vaccine platform as a common therapeutic choice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hadeel Ahmed Kenoosh
- Department of Medical Laboratory Techniques, Al-Maarif University College, AL-Anbar, Iraq
| | | | - Ahmed Hjazi
- Department of Medical Laboratory, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj, Saudi Arabia
| | | | | | - Pallavi Ghildiyal
- Uttaranchal Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Uttaranchal University, Dehradun, India
| | | | - Yasser Fakri Mustafa
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Mosul, Mosul, Iraq
| | - Manar Mohammed Hizam
- College of Pharmacy, National University of Science and Technology, Dhi Qar, Iraq
| | - Ahmed Elawady
- College of Technical Engineering, The Islamic University, Najaf, Iraq
- College of Technical Engineering, The Islamic University of Al Diwaniyah, Al Diwaniyah, Iraq
- College of Technical Engineering, The Islamic University of Babylon, Babylon, Iraq
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Spada S, Galluzzi L. Epigenetic regulation of cancer. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2024; 387:xiii-xvii. [PMID: 39179351 DOI: 10.1016/s1937-6448(24)00113-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/26/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Sheila Spada
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States.
| | - Lorenzo Galluzzi
- Department of Radiation Oncology Weill, Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States; Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States; Caryl and Israel Englander Institute for Precision Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States.
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Shim K, Jo H, Jeoung D. Cancer/Testis Antigens as Targets for RNA-Based Anticancer Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14679. [PMID: 37834126 PMCID: PMC10572814 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241914679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
In the last few decades, RNA-based drugs have emerged as a promising candidate in the treatment of various diseases. The introduction of messenger RNA (mRNA) as a vaccine or therapeutic agent enables the production of almost any functional protein/peptide. The key to applying RNA therapy in clinical trials is developing safe and effective delivery systems. Exosomes and lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) have been exploited as promising vehicles for drug delivery. This review discusses the feasibility of exosomes and LNPs as vehicles for mRNA delivery. Cancer/testis antigens (CTAs) show restricted expression in normal tissues and widespread expression in cancer tissues. Many of these CTAs show expression in the sera of patients with cancers. These characteristics of CTAs make them excellent targets for cancer immunotherapy. This review summarizes the roles of CTAs in various life processes and current studies on mRNAs encoding CTAs. Clinical studies present the beneficial effects of mRNAs encoding CTAs in patients with cancers. This review highlight clinical studies employing mRNA-LNPs encoding CTAs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Dooil Jeoung
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Natural Sciences, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea; (K.S.); (H.J.)
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Sun H, Zhang Y, Wang G, Yang W, Xu Y. mRNA-Based Therapeutics in Cancer Treatment. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15020622. [PMID: 36839944 PMCID: PMC9964383 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15020622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2023] [Revised: 01/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the past two decades, significant technological innovations have led to messenger RNA (mRNA) becoming a promising option for developing prophylactic and therapeutic vaccines, protein replacement therapies, and genome engineering. The success of the two COVID-19 mRNA vaccines has sparked new enthusiasm for other medical applications, particularly in cancer treatment. In vitro-transcribed (IVT) mRNAs are structurally designed to resemble naturally occurring mature mRNA. Delivery of IVT mRNA via delivery platforms such as lipid nanoparticles allows host cells to produce many copies of encoded proteins, which can serve as antigens to stimulate immune responses or as additional beneficial proteins for supplements. mRNA-based cancer therapeutics include mRNA cancer vaccines, mRNA encoding cytokines, chimeric antigen receptors, tumor suppressors, and other combination therapies. To better understand the current development and research status of mRNA therapies for cancer treatment, this review focused on the molecular design, delivery systems, and clinical indications of mRNA therapies in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Sun
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Tumor Microenvironment and Inflammation, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Tumor Microenvironment and Inflammation, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Ge Wang
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial & Head and Neck Oncology, National Center of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Disease, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Wen Yang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Tumor Microenvironment and Inflammation, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Yingjie Xu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Tumor Microenvironment and Inflammation, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
- Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of Chinese Ministry of Education, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
- Correspondence:
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