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Batra N, Tu MJ, Yu AM. Molecular Engineering of Functional SiRNA Agents. ACS Synth Biol 2024; 13:1906-1915. [PMID: 38733599 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.4c00181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
Synthetic biology constitutes a scientific domain focused on intentional redesign of organisms to confer novel functionalities or create new products through strategic engineering of their genetic makeup. Leveraging the inherent capabilities of nature, one may address challenges across diverse sectors including medicine. Inspired by this concept, we have developed an innovative bioengineering platform, enabling high-yield and large-scale production of biological small interfering RNA (BioRNA/siRNA) agents via bacterial fermentation. Herein, we show that with the use of a new tRNA fused pre-miRNA carrier, we can produce various forms of BioRNA/siRNA agents within living host cells. We report a high-level overexpression of nine target BioRNA/siRNA molecules at 100% success rate, yielding 3-10 mg of BioRNA/siRNA per 0.25 L of bacterial culture with high purity (>98%) and low endotoxin (<5 EU/μg RNA). Furthermore, we demonstrate that three representative BioRNA/siRNAs against GFP, BCL2, and PD-L1 are biologically active and can specifically and efficiently silence their respective targets with the potential to effectively produce downstream antiproliferation effects by PD-L1-siRNA. With these promising results, we aim to advance the field of synthetic biology by offering a novel platform to bioengineer functional siRNA agents for research and drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neelu Batra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, California 95817, United States
| | - Mei-Juan Tu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, California 95817, United States
| | - Ai-Ming Yu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, California 95817, United States
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2
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Traber GM, Yu AM. RNAi-Based Therapeutics and Novel RNA Bioengineering Technologies. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2023; 384:133-154. [PMID: 35680378 PMCID: PMC9827509 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.122.001234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 68.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Revised: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi) provides researchers with a versatile means to modulate target gene expression. The major forms of RNAi molecules, genome-derived microRNAs (miRNAs) and exogenous small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), converge into RNA-induced silencing complexes to achieve posttranscriptional gene regulation. RNAi has proven to be an adaptable and powerful therapeutic strategy where advancements in chemistry and pharmaceutics continue to bring RNAi-based drugs into the clinic. With four siRNA medications already approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), several RNAi-based therapeutics continue to advance to clinical trials with functions that closely resemble their endogenous counterparts. Although intended to enhance stability and improve efficacy, chemical modifications may increase risk of off-target effects by altering RNA structure, folding, and biologic activity away from their natural equivalents. Novel technologies in development today seek to use intact cells to yield true biologic RNAi agents that better represent the structures, stabilities, activities, and safety profiles of natural RNA molecules. In this review, we provide an examination of the mechanisms of action of endogenous miRNAs and exogenous siRNAs, the physiologic and pharmacokinetic barriers to therapeutic RNA delivery, and a summary of the chemical modifications and delivery platforms in use. We overview the pharmacology of the four FDA-approved siRNA medications (patisiran, givosiran, lumasiran, and inclisiran) as well as five siRNAs and several miRNA-based therapeutics currently in clinical trials. Furthermore, we discuss the direct expression and stable carrier-based, in vivo production of novel biologic RNAi agents for research and development. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: In our review, we summarize the major concepts of RNA interference (RNAi), molecular mechanisms, and current state and challenges of RNAi drug development. We focus our discussion on the pharmacology of US Food and Drug Administration-approved RNAi medications and those siRNAs and miRNA-based therapeutics that entered the clinical investigations. Novel approaches to producing new true biological RNAi molecules for research and development are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ai-Ming Yu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of California (UC) Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, California
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3
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Salido S, Alejo-Armijo A, Parola AJ, Sebastián V, Alejo T, Irusta S, Arruebo M, Altarejos J. Chitosan Derivatives as Nanocarriers for hLDHA Inhibitors Delivery to Hepatic Cells: A Selective Strategy for Targeting Primary Hyperoxaluria Diseases. Int J Pharm 2022; 627:122224. [PMID: 36181922 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2022.122224] [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: 04/09/2022] [Revised: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Primary hyperoxalurias (PHs) are a group of inherited alterations of the hepatic glyoxylate metabolism that result in an excess of oxalate production by the oxidation of glyoxylate by the human lactate dehydrogenase A enzyme (hLDHA). The selective liver inhibition of this enzyme is one of the therapeutic strategies followed in the treatment of this disease. Even though several efforts have been recently performed using gene silencing by the RNA interference approach, small-molecule inhibitors that selectively reach hepatocytes are preferred since they present the advantages of a lower production cost and better pharmacological properties. In that sense, the design, synthesis, and physicochemical characterization by NMR, FTIR, DLS and TEM of two nanocarriers based on chitosan conjugates (1, non-redox-sensitive; 2, redox-sensitive) have been performed to (i) achieve the selective transport of hLDHA inhibitors into hepatocytes and (ii) their disruption once they reach the hepatocytes cytosol. Polymer 2 self-assembled into micelles in water and showed high drug loadings (19.8-24.5%) and encapsulation efficiencies (31.9-40.8%) for the hLDHA inhibitors (I-III) tested. The non-redox-sensitive micelle 1 remained stable under different glutathione (GSH) concentrations (10 μM and 10 mM), and just a residual release of the inhibitor encapsulated was observed (less than 10%). On the other hand, micelle 2 was sufficiently stable under in vitro physiological conditions (10 μM, GSH) but it quickly disassembled under the simulated reducing conditions present inside hepatocytes (10 mM GSH), achieving a 60% release of the hLDHA inhibitor encapsulated after 24 h, confirming the responsiveness of the developed carrier to the high levels of intracellular GSH.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Salido
- Departamento de Química Inorgánica y Orgánica, Facultad de Ciencias Experimentales, Universidad de Jaén, Campus de Excelencia Internacional Agroalimentario, ceiA3, 23071-Jaén, Spain
| | - A Alejo-Armijo
- Departamento de Química Inorgánica y Orgánica, Facultad de Ciencias Experimentales, Universidad de Jaén, Campus de Excelencia Internacional Agroalimentario, ceiA3, 23071-Jaén, Spain; REQUIMTE - Laboratório Associado para a Química Verde, Departamento de Química, Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 2829-516 Monte de Caparica, Portugal.
| | - A J Parola
- REQUIMTE - Laboratório Associado para a Química Verde, Departamento de Química, Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 2829-516 Monte de Caparica, Portugal
| | - V Sebastián
- Instituto de Nanociencia y Materiales de Aragón (INMA), CSIC-Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza 50009, Spain; Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, University of Zaragoza, Campus Río Ebro-Edificio I+D, C/ Poeta Mariano Esquillor S/N, 50018 Zaragoza, Spain; Networking Research Center on Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine, CIBER-BBN, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - T Alejo
- Instituto de Nanociencia y Materiales de Aragón (INMA), CSIC-Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza 50009, Spain; Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, University of Zaragoza, Campus Río Ebro-Edificio I+D, C/ Poeta Mariano Esquillor S/N, 50018 Zaragoza, Spain; Networking Research Center on Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine, CIBER-BBN, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - S Irusta
- Instituto de Nanociencia y Materiales de Aragón (INMA), CSIC-Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza 50009, Spain; Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, University of Zaragoza, Campus Río Ebro-Edificio I+D, C/ Poeta Mariano Esquillor S/N, 50018 Zaragoza, Spain; Networking Research Center on Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine, CIBER-BBN, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - M Arruebo
- Instituto de Nanociencia y Materiales de Aragón (INMA), CSIC-Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza 50009, Spain; Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, University of Zaragoza, Campus Río Ebro-Edificio I+D, C/ Poeta Mariano Esquillor S/N, 50018 Zaragoza, Spain; Networking Research Center on Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine, CIBER-BBN, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - J Altarejos
- Departamento de Química Inorgánica y Orgánica, Facultad de Ciencias Experimentales, Universidad de Jaén, Campus de Excelencia Internacional Agroalimentario, ceiA3, 23071-Jaén, Spain
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Soliman NA, Mabrouk S. Primary hyperoxaluria type 1 in developing countries: novel challenges in a new therapeutic era. Clin Kidney J 2022; 15:i33-i36. [PMID: 35592622 PMCID: PMC9113489 DOI: 10.1093/ckj/sfab203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary hyperoxaluria type 1 (PH1) is an autosomal recessive inborn error of metabolism characterized by marked hepatic overproduction of oxalate due to deficiency of hepatic peroxisomal alanine-glyoxylate aminotransferase caused by AGXT gene mutation. One major hallmark of PH1 in developed as well as developing countries (DC) is the diagnostic delay. Notably in DC, where the disease is most prevalent and probably underdiagnosed, there are many challenges in PH1 diagnosis and management, with economic constrains and ethical concerns. This has led to the existing gap in the management of PH1 between developed and DC, which is expected to further deepen with the advent of novel therapeutic agents unless appropriate actions are taken. Until recently, treatment possibilities were limited to supportive measures. Thanks to a better understanding of the molecular basis of the disease a number of new therapies are developed, or being developed, leading to profound changes in management strategies. In this review we discuss the current situation of PH1 in DC as well as the accessibility challenges and the advantages of using promising novel therapeutics to bridge the currently existing gap. We also provide an overview of an integrated approach to ensure equitable access of sustainable therapeutics to PH1 patients in DC. This is expected to reduce global PH1 healthcare disparities, improve its standard of care and reduce disability linked to extrarenal complications of PH1 by implementing personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neveen A Soliman
- Department of Pediatrics, Center of Pediatric Nephrology and Transplantation, Kasr Al Ainy School of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Sameh Mabrouk
- Biochemistry Department, University Hospital of Sahloul, Sousse, Tunisia
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5
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Gang X, Liu F, Mao J. Lumasiran for primary hyperoxaluria type 1: What we have learned? Front Pediatr 2022; 10:1052625. [PMID: 36704142 PMCID: PMC9871624 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2022.1052625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary hyperoxaluria type 1 (PH1) is a rare autosomal recessive genetic disorder caused by mutations in the AGXT gene. The hepatic peroxisomal enzyme alanine glyoxylate aminotransferase (AGT) defects encoded by the AGXT gene increase oxalate production, resulting in nephrocalcinosis, nephrolithiasis, chronic kidney disease, and kidney failure. Traditional pharmacological treatments for PH1 are limited. At present, the treatment direction of PH1 is mainly targeted therapy which refer to a method that targeting the liver to block the pathway of the production of oxalate. Lumasiran (OxlumoTM, developed by Alnylam Pharmaceuticals), an investigational RNA interference (RNAi) therapeutic agent, is the first drug approved for the treatment of PH1, which was officially approved by the US Food and Drug Administration and the European Union in November 2020. It is also the only drug that has been shown to decrease harmful oxalate. Currently, there are 5 keys completed and ongoing clinical trials of lumasiran in PH1. Through the three phase III trials that completed the primary analysis period, lumasiran has been shown to be effective in reducing oxalate levels in urine and plasma in different age groups, such as children, adults, and patients with advanced kidney disease, including those on hemodialysis. In addition to clinical trials, cases of lumasiran treatment for PH1 have been reported in small infants, twin infants, and children diagnosed with PH1 after kidney transplantation. These reports confirm the effectiveness and safety of lumasiran. All adverse events were of mild to moderate severity, with the most common being mild, transient injection-site reactions. No deaths or severe adverse events were reported. This article reviews PH1 and lumasiran which is the only approved therapeutic drug, and provide new options and hope for the treatment of PH1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Gang
- Department of Nephrology, The Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, China
| | - Fei Liu
- Department of Nephrology, The Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jianhua Mao
- Department of Nephrology, The Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, China
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Estève E, Buob D, Jamme F, Jouanneau C, Kascakova S, Haymann JP, Letavernier E, Galmiche L, Ronco P, Daudon M, Bazin D, Réfrégiers M. Detection and localization of calcium oxalate in kidney using synchrotron deep ultraviolet fluorescence microscopy. JOURNAL OF SYNCHROTRON RADIATION 2022; 29:214-223. [PMID: 34985438 PMCID: PMC8733991 DOI: 10.1107/s1600577521011371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
Renal oxalosis is a rare cause of renal failure whose diagnosis can be challenging. Synchrotron deep ultraviolet (UV) fluorescence was assayed to improve oxalosis detection on kidney biopsies spatial resolution and sensitivity compared with the Fourier transform infrared microspectroscopy gold standard. The fluorescence spectrum of synthetic mono-, di- and tri-hydrated calcium oxalate was investigated using a microspectrometer coupled to the synchrotron UV beamline DISCO, Synchrotron SOLEIL, France. The obtained spectra were used to detect oxalocalcic crystals in a case control study of 42 human kidney biopsies including 19 renal oxalosis due to primary (PHO, n = 11) and secondary hyperoxaluria (SHO, n = 8), seven samples from PHO patients who received combined kidney and liver transplants, and 16 controls. For all oxalocalcic hydrates samples, a fluorescence signal is detected at 420 nm. These spectra were used to identify standard oxalocalcic crystals in patients with PHO or SHO. They also revealed micrometric crystallites as well as non-aggregated oxalate accumulation in tubular cells. A nine-points histological score was established for the diagnosis of renal oxalosis with 100% specificity (76-100) and a 73% sensitivity (43-90). Oxalate tubular accumulation and higher histological score were correlated to lower estimated glomerular filtration rate and higher urinary oxalate over creatinine ratio.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel Estève
- Sorbonne Université, UPMC Paris 06, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Unité Mixte de Recherche S 1155, F-75020 Paris, France
| | - David Buob
- Sorbonne Université, UPMC Paris 06, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Unité Mixte de Recherche S 1155, F-75020 Paris, France
| | - Frédéric Jamme
- Synchrotron SOLEIL, DISCO Beamline, L'Orme des Merisiers, Saint-Aubin, 91192 Gif sur Yvette, France
| | - Chantal Jouanneau
- Sorbonne Université, UPMC Paris 06, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Unité Mixte de Recherche S 1155, F-75020 Paris, France
| | - Slavka Kascakova
- Synchrotron SOLEIL, DISCO Beamline, L'Orme des Merisiers, Saint-Aubin, 91192 Gif sur Yvette, France
| | - Jean Philippe Haymann
- Sorbonne Université, UPMC Paris 06, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Unité Mixte de Recherche S 1155, F-75020 Paris, France
| | - Emmanuel Letavernier
- Sorbonne Université, UPMC Paris 06, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Unité Mixte de Recherche S 1155, F-75020 Paris, France
| | - Louise Galmiche
- Pathology Department, Necker-Enfants Malades Hospital, Public Assistance-Hospitals of Paris, Université Paris, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Pierre Ronco
- Sorbonne Université, UPMC Paris 06, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Unité Mixte de Recherche S 1155, F-75020 Paris, France
| | - Michel Daudon
- Sorbonne Université, UPMC Paris 06, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Unité Mixte de Recherche S 1155, F-75020 Paris, France
| | - Dominique Bazin
- Laboratoire de Physique des Solides, CNRS UMR8502, Université Paris Saclay, Orsay, France
| | - Matthieu Réfrégiers
- Synchrotron SOLEIL, DISCO Beamline, L'Orme des Merisiers, Saint-Aubin, 91192 Gif sur Yvette, France
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7
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Singh P, Granberg CF, Harris PC, Lieske JC, Licht JH, Weiss A, Milliner DS. Primary Hyperoxaluria Type 3 Can Also Result in Kidney Failure: A Case Report. Am J Kidney Dis 2022; 79:125-128. [PMID: 34245816 PMCID: PMC8692335 DOI: 10.1053/j.ajkd.2021.05.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Primary hyperoxaluria (PH) is a group of genetic disorders that result in an increased hepatic production of oxalate. PH type 3 (PH3) is the most recently identified subtype and results from mutations in the mitochondrial 4-hydroxy-2-oxoglutarate aldolase gene (HOGA1). To date, there have been 2 cases of kidney failure reported in PH3 patients. We present a case of a young man with a history of recurrent urinary tract infections and voiding dysfunction who developed kidney failure at 33 years of age. He developed a bladder stone and bilateral staghorn calculi at 12 years of age. Initial metabolic evaluation revealed hyperoxaluria with very low urinary citrate excretion on multiple measurements for which he was placed on oral citrate supplements. Further investigation of the hyperoxaluria was not completed as the patient was lost to follow-up observation until he presented at 29 years of age with chronic kidney disease stage 4 (estimated glomerular filtration rate 24mL/min/1.73m2). Hemodialysis 3 times a week was started at 33 years of age, and subsequent genetic testing revealed a homozygous HOGA1 mutation (C.973G>A p.Gly325Ser) diagnostic of PH3. The patient is currently being evaluated for all treatment options including possible liver/kidney transplantation. All cases of a childhood history of recurrent urinary stone disease with marked hyperoxaluria should prompt genetic testing for the 3 known PH types. Hyperhydration and crystallization inhibitors (citrate) are standard of care, but the role of RNA interference agents for all 3 forms of PH is also under active study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prince Singh
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | | | - Peter C Harris
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - John C. Lieske
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA,Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | | | | | - Dawn S. Milliner
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA,Division of Pediatric Nephrology and Hypertension, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
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8
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Aldabek K, Grossman OK, Al-Omar O, Fox JA, Moritz ML. Infantile Primary Hyperoxaluria Type 1 Treated With Lumasiran in Twin Males. Cureus 2022; 14:e21673. [PMID: 35237473 PMCID: PMC8882078 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.21673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary hyperoxaluria type 1 (PH1) is a rare genetic disease that results in oxalate overproduction leading to nephrolithiasis (NL), nephrocalcinosis (NC), kidney failure, and systemic oxalosis. Infantile PH1 is its most severe form, and it may require intensive hemodialysis followed by a liver-kidney transplant. Lumasiran is an RNA interference (RNAi) therapeutic agent that reduces hepatic oxalate production, which has been recently approved for the treatment of PH1. In this report, we present a case of twin males with infantile PH1 and bilateral NL and NC who were treated with lumasiran at 12 months of age. Their symptoms abated after therapy was started without disease progression. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of PH1 occurring in twins and the first report on using lumasiran to treat infantile PH1 outside of a clinical trial. Lumasiran appears to be a successful therapeutic option for infantile PH1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khaled Aldabek
- Urology/Pediatric Urology, WVU Medicine Children's Hospital/West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, USA
| | - Oulimata K Grossman
- Pediatrics/Pediatric Nephrology, WVU Medicine Children's Hospital/West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, USA
| | - Osama Al-Omar
- Urology/Pediatric Urology, WVU Medicine Children's Hospital/West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, USA
| | - Janelle A Fox
- Urology/Pediatric Urology, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh/University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, USA
| | - Michael L Moritz
- Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, USA.,Pediatric Nephrology, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, USA
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9
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Pandey M, Ojha D, Bansal S, Rode AB, Chawla G. From bench side to clinic: Potential and challenges of RNA vaccines and therapeutics in infectious diseases. Mol Aspects Med 2021; 81:101003. [PMID: 34332771 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2021.101003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Revised: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The functional and structural versatility of Ribonucleic acids (RNAs) makes them ideal candidates for overcoming the limitations imposed by small molecule-based drugs. Hence, RNA-based biopharmaceuticals such as messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines, antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), microRNA mimics, anti-miRNA oligonucleotides (AMOs), aptamers, riboswitches, and CRISPR-Cas9 are emerging as vital tools for the treatment and prophylaxis of many infectious diseases. Some of the major challenges to overcome in the area of RNA-based therapeutics have been the instability of single-stranded RNAs, delivery to the diseased cell, and immunogenicity. However, recent advancements in the delivery systems of in vitro transcribed mRNA and chemical modifications for protection against nucleases and reducing the toxicity of RNA have facilitated the entry of several exogenous RNAs into clinical trials. In this review, we provide an overview of RNA-based vaccines and therapeutics, their production, delivery, current advancements, and future translational potential in treating infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manish Pandey
- RNA Biology Laboratory, Regional Centre for Biotechnology, Faridabad, 121001, India
| | - Divya Ojha
- Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, Regional Centre for Biotechnology, Faridabad, 121001, India
| | - Sakshi Bansal
- RNA Biology Laboratory, Regional Centre for Biotechnology, Faridabad, 121001, India
| | - Ambadas B Rode
- Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, Regional Centre for Biotechnology, Faridabad, 121001, India.
| | - Geetanjali Chawla
- RNA Biology Laboratory, Regional Centre for Biotechnology, Faridabad, 121001, India.
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10
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Small Molecule-Based Enzyme Inhibitors in the Treatment of Primary Hyperoxalurias. J Pers Med 2021; 11:jpm11020074. [PMID: 33513899 PMCID: PMC7912158 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11020074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2020] [Revised: 01/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary hyperoxalurias (PHs) are a group of inherited alterations of the hepatic glyoxylate metabolism. PHs classification based on gene mutations parallel a variety of enzymatic defects, and all involve the harmful accumulation of calcium oxalate crystals that produce systemic damage. These geographically widespread rare diseases have a deep impact in the life quality of the patients. Until recently, treatments were limited to palliative measures and kidney/liver transplants in the most severe forms. Efforts made to develop pharmacological treatments succeeded with the biotechnological agent lumasiran, a siRNA product against glycolate oxidase, which has become the first effective therapy to treat PH1. However, small molecule drugs have classically been preferred since they benefit from experience and have better pharmacological properties. The development of small molecule inhibitors designed against key enzymes of glyoxylate metabolism is on the focus of research. Enzyme inhibitors are successful and widely used in several diseases and their pharmacokinetic advantages are well known. In PHs, effective enzymatic targets have been determined and characterized for drug design and interesting inhibitory activities have been achieved both in vitro and in vivo. This review describes the most recent advances towards the development of small molecule enzyme inhibitors in the treatment of PHs, introducing the multi-target approach as a more effective and safe therapeutic option.
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11
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Zhang MM, Bahal R, Rasmussen TP, Manautou JE, Zhong XB. The growth of siRNA-based therapeutics: Updated clinical studies. Biochem Pharmacol 2021; 189:114432. [PMID: 33513339 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2021.114432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 232] [Impact Index Per Article: 77.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Revised: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
More than two decades after the natural gene-silencing mechanism of RNA interference was elucidated, small interfering RNA (siRNA)-based therapeutics have finally broken into the pharmaceutical market. With three agents already approved and many others in advanced stages of the drug development pipeline, siRNA drugs are on their way to becoming a standard modality of pharmacotherapy. The majority of late-stage candidates are indicated for rare or orphan diseases, whose patients have an urgent need for novel and effective therapies. Additionally, there are agents that have the potential to meet the need of a broader population. Inclisiran, for instance, is being developed for hypercholesterolemia and has shown benefit in patients who are uncontrolled even after maximal statin therapy. This review provides a brief overview of mechanisms of siRNA action, physiological barriers to its delivery and activity, and the most common chemical modifications and delivery platforms used to overcome these barriers. Furthermore, this review presents comprehensive profiles of the three approved siRNA drugs (patisiran, givosiran, and lumasiran) and the seven other siRNA candidates in Phase 3 clinical trials (vutrisiran, nedosiran, inclisiran, fitusiran, teprasiran, cosdosiran, and tivanisiran), summarizing their modifications and delivery strategies, disease-specific mechanisms of action, updated clinical trial status, and future outlooks.
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Affiliation(s)
- M May Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
| | - Raman Bahal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
| | - Theodore P Rasmussen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
| | - José E Manautou
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
| | - Xiao-Bo Zhong
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA.
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Penniston KL, Knoll T. Diätetische Aspekte der Urolithiasis. Urolithiasis 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-662-62454-8_14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Hawner M, Ducho C. Cellular Targeting of Oligonucleotides by Conjugation with Small Molecules. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25245963. [PMID: 33339365 PMCID: PMC7766908 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25245963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2020] [Revised: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Drug candidates derived from oligonucleotides (ON) are receiving increased attention that is supported by the clinical approval of several ON drugs. Such therapeutic ON are designed to alter the expression levels of specific disease-related proteins, e.g., by displaying antigene, antisense, and RNA interference mechanisms. However, the high polarity of the polyanionic ON and their relatively rapid nuclease-mediated cleavage represent two major pharmacokinetic hurdles for their application in vivo. This has led to a range of non-natural modifications of ON structures that are routinely applied in the design of therapeutic ON. The polyanionic architecture of ON often hampers their penetration of target cells or tissues, and ON usually show no inherent specificity for certain cell types. These limitations can be overcome by conjugation of ON with molecular entities mediating cellular 'targeting', i.e., enhanced accumulation at and/or penetration of a specific cell type. In this context, the use of small molecules as targeting units appears particularly attractive and promising. This review provides an overview of advances in the emerging field of cellular targeting of ON via their conjugation with small-molecule targeting structures.
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Dietary Oxalate Intake and Kidney Outcomes. Nutrients 2020; 12:nu12092673. [PMID: 32887293 PMCID: PMC7551439 DOI: 10.3390/nu12092673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2020] [Revised: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 08/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxalate is both a plant-derived molecule and a terminal toxic metabolite with no known physiological function in humans. It is predominantly eliminated by the kidneys through glomerular filtration and tubular secretion. Regardless of the cause, the increased load of dietary oxalate presented to the kidneys has been linked to different kidney-related conditions and injuries, including calcium oxalate nephrolithiasis, acute and chronic kidney disease. In this paper, we review the current literature on the association between dietary oxalate intake and kidney outcomes.
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