1
|
Chen S, Heendeniya SN, Le BT, Rahimizadeh K, Rabiee N, Zahra QUA, Veedu RN. Splice-Modulating Antisense Oligonucleotides as Therapeutics for Inherited Metabolic Diseases. BioDrugs 2024; 38:177-203. [PMID: 38252341 PMCID: PMC10912209 DOI: 10.1007/s40259-024-00644-7] [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] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
The last decade (2013-2023) has seen unprecedented successes in the clinical translation of therapeutic antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs). Eight such molecules have been granted marketing approval by the United States Food and Drug Administration (US FDA) during the decade, after the first ASO drug, fomivirsen, was approved much earlier, in 1998. Splice-modulating ASOs have also been developed for the therapy of inborn errors of metabolism (IEMs), due to their ability to redirect aberrant splicing caused by mutations, thus recovering the expression of normal transcripts, and correcting the deficiency of functional proteins. The feasibility of treating IEM patients with splice-switching ASOs has been supported by FDA permission (2018) of the first "N-of-1" study of milasen, an investigational ASO drug for Batten disease. Although for IEM, owing to the rarity of individual disease and/or pathogenic mutation, only a low number of patients may be treated by ASOs that specifically suppress the aberrant splicing pattern of mutant precursor mRNA (pre-mRNA), splice-switching ASOs represent superior individualized molecular therapeutics for IEM. In this work, we first summarize the ASO technology with respect to its mechanisms of action, chemical modifications of nucleotides, and rational design of modified oligonucleotides; following that, we precisely provide a review of the current understanding of developing splice-modulating ASO-based therapeutics for IEM. In the concluding section, we suggest potential ways to improve and/or optimize the development of ASOs targeting IEM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Suxiang Chen
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Health Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA, 6150, Australia
- Precision Nucleic Acid Therapeutics, Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia
| | - Saumya Nishanga Heendeniya
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Health Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA, 6150, Australia
- Precision Nucleic Acid Therapeutics, Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia
| | - Bao T Le
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Health Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA, 6150, Australia
- Precision Nucleic Acid Therapeutics, Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia
- ProGenis Pharmaceuticals Pty Ltd, Bentley, WA, 6102, Australia
| | - Kamal Rahimizadeh
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Health Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA, 6150, Australia
- Precision Nucleic Acid Therapeutics, Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia
| | - Navid Rabiee
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Health Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA, 6150, Australia
- Precision Nucleic Acid Therapeutics, Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia
| | - Qurat Ul Ain Zahra
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Health Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA, 6150, Australia
- Precision Nucleic Acid Therapeutics, Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia
| | - Rakesh N Veedu
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Health Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA, 6150, Australia.
- Precision Nucleic Acid Therapeutics, Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia.
- ProGenis Pharmaceuticals Pty Ltd, Bentley, WA, 6102, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Sarkar A, Panati K, Narala VR. Code inside the codon: The role of synonymous mutations in regulating splicing machinery and its impact on disease. MUTATION RESEARCH. REVIEWS IN MUTATION RESEARCH 2022; 790:108444. [PMID: 36307006 DOI: 10.1016/j.mrrev.2022.108444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
In eukaryotes, precise pre-mRNA processing, including alternative splicing, is essential to carry out the intricate protein translation process. Both point mutations (that alter the translated protein sequence) and synonymous mutations (that do not alter the translated protein sequence) are capable of affecting the splicing process. Synonymous mutations are known to affect gene expression via altering mRNA stability, mRNA secondary structure, splicing processes, and translational kinetics. In higher eukaryotes, precise splicing is regulated by three weakly conserved cis-elements, 5' and 3' splice sites and the branch site. Many other cis-acting elements (exonic/intronic splicing enhancers and silencers) and trans-acting splicing factors (serine and arginine-rich proteins and heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoproteins) have also been found to enhance or suppress the splicing process. The appearance of synonymous mutations in cis-acting elements can alter the splicing process by changing the binding pattern of splicing factors to exonic splicing enhancers or silencer motifs. This results in exon skipping, intron retention, and various other forms of alternative splicing, eventually leading to the emergence of a wide range of diseases. The focus of this review is to elucidate the role of synonymous mutations and their impact on abnormal splicing mechanisms. Further, this study highlights the function of synonymous mutation in mediating abnormal splicing in cancer and development of X-linked, and autosomal inherited diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Avik Sarkar
- Department of Zoology, Vidyasagar University, Midnapore, West Bengal 721102, India
| | - Kalpana Panati
- Department of Biotechnology, Government College for Men, Kadapa 516004, India
| | | |
Collapse
|
3
|
Splicing Modulation as a Promising Therapeutic Strategy for Lysosomal Storage Disorders: The Mucopolysaccharidoses Example. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:life12050608. [PMID: 35629276 PMCID: PMC9146820 DOI: 10.3390/life12050608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Over recent decades, the many functions of RNA have become more evident. This molecule has been recognized not only as a carrier of genetic information, but also as a specific and essential regulator of gene expression. Different RNA species have been identified and novel and exciting roles have been unveiled. Quite remarkably, this explosion of novel RNA classes has increased the possibility for new therapeutic strategies that tap into RNA biology. Most of these drugs use nucleic acid analogues and take advantage of complementary base pairing to either mimic or antagonize the function of RNAs. Among the most successful RNA-based drugs are those that act at the pre-mRNA level to modulate or correct aberrant splicing patterns, which are caused by specific pathogenic variants. This approach is particularly tempting for monogenic disorders with associated splicing defects, especially when they are highly frequent among affected patients worldwide or within a specific population. With more than 600 mutations that cause disease affecting the pre-mRNA splicing process, we consider lysosomal storage diseases (LSDs) to be perfect candidates for this type of approach. Here, we introduce the overall rationale and general mechanisms of splicing modulation approaches and highlight the currently marketed formulations, which have been developed for non-lysosomal genetic disorders. We also extensively reviewed the existing preclinical studies on the potential of this sort of therapeutic strategy to recover aberrant splicing and increase enzyme activity in our diseases of interest: the LSDs. Special attention was paid to a particular subgroup of LSDs: the mucopolysaccharidoses (MPSs). By doing this, we hoped to unveil the unique therapeutic potential of the use of this sort of approach for LSDs as a whole.
Collapse
|
4
|
Comparative Transcriptome Analysis of Bombyx mori (Lepidoptera) Larval Hemolymph in Response to Autographa californica Nucleopolyhedrovirus in Differentially Resistant Strains. Processes (Basel) 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/pr9081401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Bombyx mori nucleopolyhedrovirus (BmNPV) is a kind of pathogen that causes huge economic losses to silkworm production. Although Autographa californica nucleopolyhedrovirus (AcMNPV) and BmNPV are both baculoviruses, the host domains of these two viruses have almost no intersection in nature. Recently, it has been found that some silkworms could be infected by recombinant AcMNPV through a puncture, which provided valuable material for studying the infection mechanism of baculovirus to silkworm. In this study, comparative transcriptomics was used to analyse the hemolymph of two differentially resistant strains following AcMNPV inoculation. There were 678 DEGs in p50 and 515 DEGs in C108 following viral infection. Among them, the upregulation and downregulation of DEGs were similar in p50; however, the upregulated DEGs were nearly twice as numerous as the downregulated DEGs in C108. The DEGs in different resistant strains differed by GO enrichment. Based on KEGG enrichment, DEGs were mainly enriched in metabolic pathways in p50 and the apoptosis pathway in C108. Moreover, 13 genes involved in metabolic pathways and 11 genes involved in the apoptosis pathway were analysed. Among the DEGs involved in apoptosis, the function of BmTex261 in viral infection was analysed. The BmTex261 showed the highest expression in hemolymph and a significant response to viral infection in the hemolymph of C108, indicating that it is involved in anti-AcMNPV infection. This was further validated by the significantly decreased expression of viral gene lef3 after overexpression of BmTex261 in BmN cells. The results provide a theoretical reference for the molecular mechanism of resistance to BmNPV in silkworms.
Collapse
|
5
|
Kuijper EC, Bergsma AJ, Pijnappel WP, Aartsma‐Rus A. Opportunities and challenges for antisense oligonucleotide therapies. J Inherit Metab Dis 2021; 44:72-87. [PMID: 32391605 PMCID: PMC7891411 DOI: 10.1002/jimd.12251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2020] [Revised: 04/23/2020] [Accepted: 05/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Antisense oligonucleotide (AON) therapies involve short strands of modified nucleotides that target RNA in a sequence-specific manner, inducing targeted protein knockdown or restoration. Currently, 10 AON therapies have been approved in the United States and Europe. Nucleotides are chemically modified to protect AONs from degradation, enhance bioavailability and increase RNA affinity. Whereas single stranded AONs can efficiently be delivered systemically, delivery of double stranded AONs requires capsulation in lipid nanoparticles or binding to a conjugate as the uptake enhancing backbone is hidden in this conformation. With improved chemistry, delivery vehicles and conjugates, doses can be lowered, thereby reducing the risk and occurrence of side effects. AONs can be used to knockdown or restore levels of protein. Knockdown can be achieved by single stranded or double stranded AONs binding the RNA transcript and activating RNaseH-mediated and RISC-mediated degradation respectively. Transcript binding by AONs can also prevent translation, hence reducing protein levels. For protein restoration, single stranded AONs are used to modulate pre-mRNA splicing and either include or skip an exon to restore protein production. Intervening at a genetic level, AONs provide therapeutic options for inherited metabolic diseases as well. This review provides an overview of the different AON approaches, with a focus on AONs developed for inborn errors of metabolism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elsa C. Kuijper
- Department of Human GeneticsLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
| | - Atze J. Bergsma
- Department of PediatricsCenter for Lysosomal and Metabolic Diseases, Erasmus Medical CenterRotterdamThe Netherlands
- Department of Clinical GeneticsCenter for Lysosomal and Metabolic Diseases, Erasmus Medical CenterRotterdamThe Netherlands
| | - W.W.M. Pim Pijnappel
- Department of PediatricsCenter for Lysosomal and Metabolic Diseases, Erasmus Medical CenterRotterdamThe Netherlands
- Department of Clinical GeneticsCenter for Lysosomal and Metabolic Diseases, Erasmus Medical CenterRotterdamThe Netherlands
| | | |
Collapse
|
6
|
Coutinho MF, Santos JI, S. Mendonça L, Matos L, Prata MJ, S. Jurado A, Pedroso de Lima MC, Alves S. Lysosomal Storage Disease-Associated Neuropathy: Targeting Stable Nucleic Acid Lipid Particle (SNALP)-Formulated siRNAs to the Brain as a Therapeutic Approach. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21165732. [PMID: 32785133 PMCID: PMC7461213 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21165732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Revised: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
More than two thirds of Lysosomal Storage Diseases (LSDs) present central nervous system involvement. Nevertheless, only one of the currently approved therapies has an impact on neuropathology. Therefore, alternative approaches are under development, either addressing the underlying enzymatic defect or its downstream consequences. Also under study is the possibility to block substrate accumulation upstream, by promoting a decrease of its synthesis. This concept is known as substrate reduction therapy and may be triggered by several molecules, such as small interfering RNAs (siRNAs). siRNAs promote RNA interference, a naturally occurring sequence-specific post-transcriptional gene-silencing mechanism, and may target virtually any gene of interest, inhibiting its expression. Still, naked siRNAs have limited cellular uptake, low biological stability, and unfavorable pharmacokinetics. Thus, their translation into clinics requires proper delivery methods. One promising platform is a special class of liposomes called stable nucleic acid lipid particles (SNALPs), which are characterized by high cargo encapsulation efficiency and may be engineered to promote targeted delivery to specific receptors. Here, we review the concept of SNALPs, presenting a series of examples on their efficacy as siRNA nanodelivery systems. By doing so, we hope to unveil the therapeutic potential of these nanosystems for targeted brain delivery of siRNAs in LSDs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Francisca Coutinho
- Research and Development Unit, Department of Human Genetics, National Institute of Health Doutor Ricardo Jorge (INSA I.P), Rua Alexandre Herculano, 321, 4000-055 Porto, Portugal; (J.I.S.); (L.M.); (S.A.)
- Center for the Study of Animal Science, CECA-ICETA, University of Porto, Praça Gomes Teixeira, Apartado 55142, 4051-401 Porto, Portugal
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +351-(223)-401-113
| | - Juliana Inês Santos
- Research and Development Unit, Department of Human Genetics, National Institute of Health Doutor Ricardo Jorge (INSA I.P), Rua Alexandre Herculano, 321, 4000-055 Porto, Portugal; (J.I.S.); (L.M.); (S.A.)
- Biology Department, Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, Rua do Campo Alegre, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal;
| | - Liliana S. Mendonça
- CNC—Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; (L.S.M.); (M.C.P.d.L.)
- CIBB—Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Liliana Matos
- Research and Development Unit, Department of Human Genetics, National Institute of Health Doutor Ricardo Jorge (INSA I.P), Rua Alexandre Herculano, 321, 4000-055 Porto, Portugal; (J.I.S.); (L.M.); (S.A.)
- Center for the Study of Animal Science, CECA-ICETA, University of Porto, Praça Gomes Teixeira, Apartado 55142, 4051-401 Porto, Portugal
| | - Maria João Prata
- Biology Department, Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, Rua do Campo Alegre, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal;
- i3S—Institute of Research and Innovation in Health/IPATIMUP—Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Amália S. Jurado
- University of Coimbra, CNC—Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Department of Life Sciences, Calçada Martim de Freitas, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal;
| | - Maria C. Pedroso de Lima
- CNC—Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; (L.S.M.); (M.C.P.d.L.)
| | - Sandra Alves
- Research and Development Unit, Department of Human Genetics, National Institute of Health Doutor Ricardo Jorge (INSA I.P), Rua Alexandre Herculano, 321, 4000-055 Porto, Portugal; (J.I.S.); (L.M.); (S.A.)
- Center for the Study of Animal Science, CECA-ICETA, University of Porto, Praça Gomes Teixeira, Apartado 55142, 4051-401 Porto, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Precision Medicine for Lysosomal Disorders. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10081110. [PMID: 32722587 PMCID: PMC7463721 DOI: 10.3390/biom10081110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Revised: 07/21/2020] [Accepted: 07/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Precision medicine (PM) is an emerging approach for disease treatment and prevention that accounts for the individual variability in the genes, environment, and lifestyle of each person. Lysosomal diseases (LDs) are a group of genetic metabolic disorders that include approximately 70 monogenic conditions caused by a defect in lysosomal function. LDs may result from primary lysosomal enzyme deficiencies or impairments in membrane-associated proteins, lysosomal enzyme activators, or modifiers that affect lysosomal function. LDs are heterogeneous disorders, and the phenotype of the affected individual depends on the type of substrate and where it accumulates, which may be impacted by the type of genetic change and residual enzymatic activity. LDs are individually rare, with a combined incidence of approximately 1:4000 individuals. Specific therapies are already available for several LDs, and many more are in development. Early identification may enable disease course prediction and a specific intervention, which is very important for clinical outcome. Driven by advances in omics technology, PM aims to provide the most appropriate management for each patient based on the disease susceptibility or treatment response predictions for specific subgroups. In this review, we focused on the emerging diagnostic technologies that may help to optimize the management of each LD patient and the therapeutic options available, as well as in clinical developments that enable customized approaches to be selected for each subject, according to the principles of PM.
Collapse
|
8
|
Desviat LR, Mallebrera CJ, Vallejo-Illarramendi A, Mayán MD, Nogales-Gadea G, Arechavala-Gomeza V. COST Actions: fostering collaborative research for rare diseases. Lancet Neurol 2020; 18:989-991. [PMID: 31609208 DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(19)30366-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2019] [Accepted: 09/09/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Lourdes R Desviat
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa UAM-CSIC, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, CIBERER, IdiPaz, Madrid, 28049, Spain.
| | - Cecilia Jiménez Mallebrera
- Unidad de Patología Neuromuscular, Servicio de Neurología, Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Spanish Biomedical Research Networking Centre (CIBERER), Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - María D Mayán
- CellCOM Research Group, Institute of Biomedical Research A Coruña (INIBIC), Servicio Galego de Saúde (SERGAS), A Coruña, Spain
| | - Gisela Nogales-Gadea
- Neuromuscular and Neuropediatric Research Group, Institut d'Investigació en Ciències de la Salut Germans Trias i Pujol, Campus Can Ruti, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Badalona, Spain
| | - Virginia Arechavala-Gomeza
- Neuromuscular Disorders Group, Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Bizkaia, Spain; Ikerbasque, Basque Foundation for Science, Bilbao, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Whiteman DA, Kimura A. Development of idursulfase therapy for mucopolysaccharidosis type II (Hunter syndrome): the past, the present and the future. DRUG DESIGN DEVELOPMENT AND THERAPY 2017; 11:2467-2480. [PMID: 28860717 PMCID: PMC5574592 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s139601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Mucopolysaccharidosis type II (MPS II; Hunter syndrome; OMIM 309900) is a rare, multisystemic, progressive lysosomal storage disease caused by deficient activity of the iduronate-2-sulfatase (I2S) enzyme. Accumulation of the glycosaminoglycans dermatan sulfate and heparan sulfate results in a broad range of disease manifestations that are highly variable in presentation and severity; notably, approximately two-thirds of individuals are affected by progressive central nervous system involvement. Historically, management of this disease was palliative; however, during the 1990s, I2S was purified to homogeneity for the first time, leading to cloning of the corresponding gene and offering a means of addressing the underlying cause of MPS II using enzyme replacement therapy (ERT). Recombinant I2S (idursulfase) was produced for ERT using a human cell line and was shown to be indistinguishable from endogenous I2S. Preclinical studies utilizing the intravenous route of administration provided valuable insights that informed the design of the subsequent clinical studies. The pivotal Phase II/III clinical trial of intravenous idursulfase (Elaprase®; Shire, Lexington, MA, USA) demonstrated improvements in a range of clinical parameters; based on these findings, intravenous idursulfase was approved for use in patients with MPS II in the USA in 2006 and in Europe and Japan in 2007. Evidence gained from post-approval programs has helped to improve our knowledge and understanding of management of patients with the disease; as a result, idursulfase is now available to young pediatric patients, and in some countries patients have the option to receive their infusions at home. Although ERT with idursulfase has been shown to improve somatic signs and symptoms of MPS II, the drug does not cross the blood–brain barrier and so treatment of neurological aspects of the disease remains challenging. A number of novel approaches are being investigated, and these may help to improve the care of patients with MPS II in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David Ah Whiteman
- Research & Development, Shire Human Genetic Therapies, Inc., Lexington, MA, USA
| | - Alan Kimura
- Research & Development, Shire Human Genetic Therapies, Inc., Lexington, MA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Álvarez-Satta M, Castro-Sánchez S, Pousada G, Valverde D. Functional analysis by minigene assay of putative splicing variants found in Bardet-Biedl syndrome patients. J Cell Mol Med 2017; 21:2268-2275. [PMID: 28502102 PMCID: PMC5618670 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.13147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2016] [Accepted: 01/30/2017] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Bardet–Biedl syndrome (BBS) and Alström syndrome (ALMS) are rare diseases belonging to the group of ciliopathies. Although mutational screening studies of BBS/ALMS cohorts have been extensively reported, little is known about the functional effect of those changes. Thus, splicing variants are estimated to represent 15% of disease‐causing mutations, and there is growing evidence that many exonic changes are really splicing variants misclassified. In this study, we aimed to analyse for the first time several variants in BBS2,ARL6/BBS3,BBS4 and ALMS1 genes predicted to produce aberrant splicing by minigene assay. We found discordance between bioinformatics analysis and experimental data when comparing wild‐type and mutant constructs. Remarkably, we identified nonsense variants presumably resistant to nonsense‐mediated decay, even when a premature termination codon would be introduced in the second amino acid (p.(G2*) mutation in ARL6/BBS3 gene). As a whole, we report one of the first functional studies of BBS/ALMS1 variants using minigene assay, trying to elucidate their role in disease. Functional studies of variants identified in BBS and ALMS patients are essential for their proper classification and subsequent genetic counselling and could also be the start point for new therapeutic approaches, currently based only on symptomatic treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- María Álvarez-Satta
- Grupo de Biomarcadores Moleculares (BB1), Departamento de Bioquímica, Genética e Inmunología, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Vigo, Vigo, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Galicia Sur (IISGS), Vigo, Spain
| | - Sheila Castro-Sánchez
- Grupo de Biomarcadores Moleculares (BB1), Departamento de Bioquímica, Genética e Inmunología, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Vigo, Vigo, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Galicia Sur (IISGS), Vigo, Spain
| | - Guillermo Pousada
- Grupo de Biomarcadores Moleculares (BB1), Departamento de Bioquímica, Genética e Inmunología, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Vigo, Vigo, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Galicia Sur (IISGS), Vigo, Spain
| | - Diana Valverde
- Grupo de Biomarcadores Moleculares (BB1), Departamento de Bioquímica, Genética e Inmunología, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Vigo, Vigo, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Galicia Sur (IISGS), Vigo, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Uttarilli A, Pasumarthi D, Ranganath P, Dalal AB. Functional characterization of arylsulfatase B mutations in Indian patients with Maroteaux-Lamy syndrome (mucopolysaccharidosis type VI). Gene 2017; 599:19-27. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2016.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2016] [Revised: 11/02/2016] [Accepted: 11/04/2016] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
|
12
|
Coutinho MF, Santos JI, Alves S. Less Is More: Substrate Reduction Therapy for Lysosomal Storage Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:ijms17071065. [PMID: 27384562 PMCID: PMC4964441 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17071065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2016] [Revised: 06/24/2016] [Accepted: 06/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Lysosomal storage diseases (LSDs) are a group of rare, life-threatening genetic disorders, usually caused by a dysfunction in one of the many enzymes responsible for intralysosomal digestion. Even though no cure is available for any LSD, a few treatment strategies do exist. Traditionally, efforts have been mainly targeting the functional loss of the enzyme, by injection of a recombinant formulation, in a process called enzyme replacement therapy (ERT), with no impact on neuropathology. This ineffectiveness, together with its high cost and lifelong dependence is amongst the main reasons why additional therapeutic approaches are being (and have to be) investigated: chaperone therapy; gene enhancement; gene therapy; and, alternatively, substrate reduction therapy (SRT), whose aim is to prevent storage not by correcting the original enzymatic defect but, instead, by decreasing the levels of biosynthesis of the accumulating substrate(s). Here we review the concept of substrate reduction, highlighting the major breakthroughs in the field and discussing the future of SRT, not only as a monotherapy but also, especially, as complementary approach for LSDs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Francisca Coutinho
- Department of Human Genetics, Research and Development Unit, National Health Institute Doutor Ricardo Jorge, Rua Alexandre Herculano, 321 4000-055 Porto, Portugal.
| | - Juliana Inês Santos
- Department of Human Genetics, Research and Development Unit, National Health Institute Doutor Ricardo Jorge, Rua Alexandre Herculano, 321 4000-055 Porto, Portugal.
| | - Sandra Alves
- Department of Human Genetics, Research and Development Unit, National Health Institute Doutor Ricardo Jorge, Rua Alexandre Herculano, 321 4000-055 Porto, Portugal.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Matos L, Gonçalves V, Pinto E, Laranjeira F, Prata MJ, Jordan P, Desviat LR, Pérez B, Alves S. Data in support of a functional analysis of splicing mutations in the IDS gene and the use of antisense oligonucleotides to exploit an alternative therapy for MPS II. Data Brief 2015; 5:810-7. [PMID: 26693516 PMCID: PMC4660375 DOI: 10.1016/j.dib.2015.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2015] [Accepted: 10/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
This data article contains insights into the methodology used for the analysis of three exonic mutations altering the splicing of the IDS gene: c.241C>T, c.257C>T and c.1122C>T. We have performed splicing assays for the wild-type and mutant minigenes corresponding to these substitutions. In addition, bioinformatic predictions of splicing regulatory sequence elements as well as RNA interference and overexpression experiments were conducted. The interpretation of these data and further extensive experiments into the analysis of these three mutations and also into the methodology applied to correct one of them can be found in “Functional analysis of splicing mutations in the IDS gene and the use of antisense oligonucleotides to exploit an alternative therapy for MPS II” Matos et al. (2015) [1].
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liliana Matos
- Research and Development Unit, Department of Human Genetics, INSA, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Vânia Gonçalves
- Research and Development Unit, Department of Human Genetics, INSA, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Eugénia Pinto
- Biochemical Genetics Unit, Center for Medical Genetics Jacinto Magalhães, Porto Hospital Center, Porto, Portugal
| | - Francisco Laranjeira
- Biochemical Genetics Unit, Center for Medical Genetics Jacinto Magalhães, Porto Hospital Center, Porto, Portugal
| | - Maria João Prata
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação em Saúde/IPATIMUP - Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Peter Jordan
- Research and Development Unit, Department of Human Genetics, INSA, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Lourdes R. Desviat
- Centro de Diagnóstico de Enfermedades Moleculares, Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, UAM-CSIC, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- CIBER de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Madrid, Spain
- IDIPaz, Madrid, Spain
| | - Belén Pérez
- Centro de Diagnóstico de Enfermedades Moleculares, Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, UAM-CSIC, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- CIBER de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Madrid, Spain
- IDIPaz, Madrid, Spain
| | - Sandra Alves
- Research and Development Unit, Department of Human Genetics, INSA, Porto, Portugal
- Corresponding author.
| |
Collapse
|