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Bogen O, Araldi D, Sucher A, Kober K, Ohara PT, Levine JD. Isolectin B4 (IB4)-conjugated streptavidin for the selective knockdown of proteins in IB4-positive (+) nociceptors. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.12.18.572242. [PMID: 38260446 PMCID: PMC10802253 DOI: 10.1101/2023.12.18.572242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
In vivo analysis of protein function in nociceptor subpopulations using antisense oligonucleotides and short interfering RNAs is limited by their non-selective cellular uptake. To address the need for selective transfection methods, we covalently linked isolectin B4 (IB4) to streptavidin and analyzed whether it could be used to study protein function in IB4(+)-nociceptors. Rats treated intrathecally with IB4-conjugated streptavidin complexed with biotinylated antisense oligonucleotides for protein kinase C epsilon (PKCε) mRNA were found to have: a) less PKCε in dorsal root ganglia (DRG), b) reduced PKCε expression in IB4(+) but not IB4(-) DRG neurons, and c) fewer transcripts of the PKCε gene in the DRG. This knockdown in PKCε expression in IB4(+) DRG neurons is sufficient to reverse hyperalgesic priming, a rodent model of chronic pain that is dependent on PKCε in IB4(+)-nociceptors. These results establish that IB4-streptavidin can be used to study protein function in a defined subpopulation of nociceptive C-fiber afferents.
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2
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Bogen O, Araldi D, Sucher A, Kober K, Ohara PT, Levine JD. Isolectin B4 (IB4)-conjugated streptavidin for the selective knockdown of proteins in IB4-positive (+) nociceptors. Mol Pain 2024; 20:17448069241230419. [PMID: 38246917 PMCID: PMC10851726 DOI: 10.1177/17448069241230419] [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: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
In vivo analysis of protein function in nociceptor subpopulations using antisense oligonucleotides and short interfering RNAs is limited by their non-selective cellular uptake. To address the need for selective transfection methods, we covalently linked isolectin B4 (IB4) to streptavidin and analyzed whether it could be used to study protein function in IB4(+)-nociceptors. Rats treated intrathecally with IB4-conjugated streptavidin complexed with biotinylated antisense oligonucleotides for protein kinase C epsilon (PKCε) mRNA were found to have: (a) less PKCε in dorsal root ganglia (DRG), (b) reduced PKCε expression in IB4(+) but not IB4(-) DRG neurons, and (c) fewer transcripts of the PKCε gene in the DRG. This knockdown in PKCε expression in IB4(+) DRG neurons is sufficient to reverse hyperalgesic priming, a rodent model of chronic pain that is dependent on PKCε in IB4(+)-nociceptors. These results establish that IB4-streptavidin can be used to study protein function in a defined subpopulation of nociceptive C-fiber afferents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oliver Bogen
- Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, UCSF Pain and Addiction Research Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Dionéia Araldi
- Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, UCSF Pain and Addiction Research Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Anatol Sucher
- School of Nursing, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Kord Kober
- School of Nursing, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Peter T Ohara
- Department of Anatomy, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jon D Levine
- Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, UCSF Pain and Addiction Research Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Division of Neuroscience, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
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3
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Berkman T, Li X, Liang Y, Korban A, Bekker A, Tao YX. Systemic administration of NIS-lncRNA antisense oligonucleotide alleviates neuropathic pain. Neurosci Lett 2023; 817:137512. [PMID: 37806431 PMCID: PMC10842954 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2023.137512] [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: 08/20/2023] [Revised: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) is an FDA-approved strategy in the treatment of neurological diseases. We have shown the viability of using intrathecal ASO to suppress nerve injury-specific long noncoding RNA (NIS-lncRNA) in dorsal root ganglion (DRG), resulting in a stable and long-lasting antinociceptive effect on NP. This study examined whether systemic administration of NIS-lncRNA ASO relieved the chronic constriction injury (CCI)-induced nociceptive hypersensitivity. METHODS A single subcutaneous injection of NIS-lncRNA ASO at a dose of 1,000 µg was carried out 7 days after CCI or sham surgery in male mice. Behavioral tests were performed one day before surgery and at different days after surgery. DRG and spinal cord were finally collected for quantitative real-time RT-PCR and Western blot assays. RESULTS NIS-lncRNA ASO significantly alleviated CCI-induced mechanical allodynia, heat hyperalgesia, and cold hyperalgesia starting on day 14 or 21 post-ASO injection and lasting for at least 7 days on the ipsilateral side. Additionally, CCI-induced spontaneous pain and ipsilateral dorsal horn neuronal and astrocyte hyperactivation were blocked on day 28 after NIS-lncRNA ASO injection. As predicted, the CCI-induced increases in the levels of NIS-lncRNA and its downstream target C-C motif chemokine ligand 2 in the ipsilateral lumbar 3 and 4 DRGs were attenuated on day 28 following NIS-lncRNA ASO injection. CONCLUSION Our findings indicate that systemic administration of NIS-lncRNA ASO also produces a stable and long-lasting antinociceptive effect on neuropathic pain. NIS-lncRNA ASO may have potential clinical application in the treatment of this disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tolga Berkman
- Department of Anesthesiology, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark NJ07103, USA
| | - Xiang Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark NJ07103, USA
| | - Yingping Liang
- Department of Anesthesiology, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark NJ07103, USA
| | - Anna Korban
- Department of Anesthesiology, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark NJ07103, USA
| | - Alex Bekker
- Department of Anesthesiology, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark NJ07103, USA
| | - Yuan-Xiang Tao
- Department of Anesthesiology, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark NJ07103, USA; Department of Physiology, Pharmacology & Neuroscience, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark NJ07103, USA; Department of Cell Biology & Molecular Medicine, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark NJ07103, USA.
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4
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Oberemok VV, Andreeva O, Laikova K, Alieva E, Temirova Z. Rheumatoid Arthritis Has Won the Battle but Not the War: How Many Joints Will We Save Tomorrow? MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:1853. [PMID: 37893571 PMCID: PMC10608469 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59101853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis refers to joint diseases of unclear etiology whose final stages can lead to unbearable pain and complete immobility of the affected joints. As one of the most widely known diseases of the joints, it serves as a study target for a large number of research groups and pharmaceutical companies. Modern treatment with anti-inflammatory drugs, including janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors, monoclonal antibodies, and botanicals (polyphenols, glycosides, alkaloids, etc.) has achieved some success and hope for improving the course of the disease. However, existing drugs against RA have a number of side effects which push researchers to elaborate on more selective and effective drug candidates. The avant-garde of research, which aims to develop treatment of rheumatoid arthritis using antisense oligonucleotides along with nonsteroidal drugs and corticosteroids against inflammation, increases the chances of success and expands the arsenal of drugs. The primary goal in the treatment of this disease is to find therapies that allow patients with rheumatoid arthritis to move their joints without pain. The main purpose of this review is to show the victories and challenges for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and the tortuous but promising path of research that aims to help patients experience the joy of freely moving joints without pain.
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Grants
- No. FZEG-2021-0009 Department of Molecular Genetics and Biotechnologies, Institute of Biochemical Technologies, Ecology and Pharmacy, V.I. Vernadsky Crimean Federal University, Simferopol, Crimea
- No. FZEG-2021-0009 Department of Molecular Genetics and Biotechnologies, Institute of Biochemical Technologies, Ecology and Pharmacy, V.I. Vernadsky Crimean Federal University, Simferopol, Crimea
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Affiliation(s)
- Volodymyr V. Oberemok
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Biotechnologies, Institute of Biochemical Technologies, Ecology and Pharmacy, V.I. Vernadsky Crimean Federal University, Simferopol 295007, Crimea; (O.A.); (K.L.); (E.A.); (Z.T.)
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5
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Jung KT. Towards precision pain management-the case for targeting DRP1 in remifentanil-induced hyperalgesia. Korean J Pain 2023; 36:405-407. [PMID: 37718590 PMCID: PMC10551392 DOI: 10.3344/kjp.23258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ki Tae Jung
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Chosun University Hospital, School of Medicine and Medical College, Chosun University, Gwangju, Korea
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6
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Li L, Ru Q, Lu Y, Fang X, Chen G, Saifullah AB, Yao C, Tolias KF. Tiam1 coordinates synaptic structural and functional plasticity underpinning the pathophysiology of neuropathic pain. Neuron 2023; 111:2038-2050.e6. [PMID: 37146610 PMCID: PMC10330505 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2023.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2022] [Revised: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Neuropathic pain is a common, debilitating chronic pain condition caused by damage or a disease affecting the somatosensory nervous system. Understanding the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying neuropathic pain is critical for developing new therapeutic strategies to treat chronic pain effectively. Tiam1 is a Rac1 guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF) that promotes dendritic and synaptic growth during hippocampal development by inducing actin cytoskeletal remodeling. Here, using multiple neuropathic pain animal models, we show that Tiam1 coordinates synaptic structural and functional plasticity in the spinal dorsal horn via actin cytoskeleton reorganization and synaptic NMDAR stabilization and that these actions are essential for the initiation, transition, and maintenance of neuropathic pain. Furthermore, an antisense oligonucleotides (ASO) targeting spinal Tiam1 persistently alleviate neuropathic pain sensitivity. Our findings suggest that Tiam1-coordinated synaptic functional and structural plasticity underlies the pathophysiology of neuropathic pain and that intervention of Tiam1-mediated maladaptive synaptic plasticity has long-lasting consequences in neuropathic pain management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingyong Li
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35025, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
| | - Qin Ru
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Department of Health and Kinesiology, School of Physical Education, Jianghan University, Wuhan 430056, China
| | - Yungang Lu
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Department of Pain Medicine, Anesthesiology, Critical Care and Pain Medicine Division, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Xing Fang
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Guanxing Chen
- Department of Pain Medicine, Anesthesiology, Critical Care and Pain Medicine Division, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Ali Bin Saifullah
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Changqun Yao
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35025, USA
| | - Kimberley F Tolias
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Verna and Marrs McLean Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
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7
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Davis OC, Price TJ. Tiam1 creates a painful link between dendritic spine remodeling and NMDA receptors. Neuron 2023; 111:1993-1995. [PMID: 37413965 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2023.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
Dendritic spine remodeling in the dorsal horn is associated with many chronic pain models. Li et al. demonstrate that Tiam1 links Rac1-mediated spine changes to NMDA receptor activity to promote behavioral signs of chronic pain in rodents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia C Davis
- University of Texas at Dallas, Department of Neuroscience and Center for Advanced Pain Studies, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Theodore J Price
- University of Texas at Dallas, Department of Neuroscience and Center for Advanced Pain Studies, Dallas, TX, USA.
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8
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Berta T, Strong JA, Zhang JM, Ji RR. Targeting dorsal root ganglia and primary sensory neurons for the treatment of chronic pain: an update. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2023; 27:665-678. [PMID: 37574713 PMCID: PMC10530032 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2023.2247563] [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: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Current treatments for chronic pain are inadequate. Here, we provide an update on the new therapeutic strategies that target dorsal root ganglia (DRGs) in the peripheral nervous system for a better and safer treatment of chronic pain. AREAS COVERED Despite the complex nature of chronic pain and its underlying mechanisms, we do know that changes in the plasticity and modality of neurons in DRGs play a pivotal role. DRG neurons are heterogenous and offer potential pain targets for different therapeutic interventions. We discuss the last advancements of these interventions, which include the use of systemic and local administrations, selective nerve drug delivery, and gene therapy. In particular, we provide updates and further details on the molecular characterization of primary sensory neurons, new analgesics entering the market, and future gene therapy approaches. EXPERT OPINION DRGs and primary sensory neurons are promising targets for chronic pain treatment due to their key role in pain signaling, unique anatomical location, and the potential for different targeted therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Temugin Berta
- Pain Research Center, Department of Anesthesiology, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | - Judith A. Strong
- Pain Research Center, Department of Anesthesiology, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | - Jun-Ming Zhang
- Pain Research Center, Department of Anesthesiology, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | - Ru-Rong Ji
- Center for Translational Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
- Departments of Cell Biology and Neurobiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710
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9
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Derre A, Soler N, Billoux V, Benizri S, Vialet B, Rivat C, Barthélémy P, Carroll P, Pattyn A, Venteo S. FXYD2 antisense oligonucleotide provides an efficient approach for long-lasting relief of chronic peripheral pain. JCI Insight 2023; 8:161246. [PMID: 37154155 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.161246] [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: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic pain, whether of inflammatory or neuropathic origin, affects about 18% of the population of developed countries, and most current treatments are only moderately effective and/or cause serious side effects. Therefore, the development of novel therapeutic approaches still represents a major challenge. The Na,K-ATPase modulator FXYD2 is critically required for the maintenance of neuropathic pain in rodents. Here, we set up a therapeutic protocol based on the use of chemically modified antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) to inhibit FXYD2 expression and treat chronic pain. We identified an ASO targeting a 20-nucleotide stretch in the FXYD2 mRNA that is evolutionarily conserved between rats and humans and is a potent inhibitor of FXYD2 expression. We used this sequence to synthesize lipid-modified forms of ASO (FXYD2-LASO) to facilitate their entry into dorsal root ganglia neurons. We established that intrathecal or intravenous injections of FXYD2-LASO in rat models of neuropathic or inflammatory pain led to a virtually complete alleviation of their pain symptoms, without causing obvious side effects. Remarkably, by using 2'-O-2-methoxyethyl chemical stabilization of the ASO (FXYD2-LASO-Gapmer), we could significantly prolong the therapeutic action of a single treatment up to 10 days. This study establishes FXYD2-LASO-Gapmer administration as a promising and efficient therapeutic strategy for long-lasting relief of chronic pain conditions in human patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre Derre
- Institute for Neurosciences of Montpellier, University of Montpellier, INSERM, Montpellier, France
| | - Noelian Soler
- Institute for Neurosciences of Montpellier, University of Montpellier, INSERM, Montpellier, France
| | - Valentine Billoux
- Institute for Neurosciences of Montpellier, University of Montpellier, INSERM, Montpellier, France
| | - Sebastien Benizri
- ARNA Laboratory, University of Bordeaux, INSERM U1212, UMR CNRS 5320, Bordeaux, France
| | - Brune Vialet
- ARNA Laboratory, University of Bordeaux, INSERM U1212, UMR CNRS 5320, Bordeaux, France
| | - Cyril Rivat
- Institute for Neurosciences of Montpellier, University of Montpellier, INSERM, Montpellier, France
| | - Philippe Barthélémy
- ARNA Laboratory, University of Bordeaux, INSERM U1212, UMR CNRS 5320, Bordeaux, France
| | - Patrick Carroll
- Institute for Neurosciences of Montpellier, University of Montpellier, INSERM, Montpellier, France
| | - Alexandre Pattyn
- Institute for Neurosciences of Montpellier, University of Montpellier, INSERM, Montpellier, France
| | - Stephanie Venteo
- Institute for Neurosciences of Montpellier, University of Montpellier, INSERM, Montpellier, France
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10
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Ovsepian SV, Waxman SG. Gene therapy for chronic pain: emerging opportunities in target-rich peripheral nociceptors. Nat Rev Neurosci 2023; 24:252-265. [PMID: 36658346 DOI: 10.1038/s41583-022-00673-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
With sweeping advances in precision delivery systems and manipulation of the genomes and transcriptomes of various cell types, medical biotechnology offers unprecedented selectivity for and control of a wide variety of biological processes, forging new opportunities for therapeutic interventions. This perspective summarizes state-of-the-art gene therapies enabled by recent innovations, with an emphasis on the expanding universe of molecular targets that govern the activity and function of primary sensory neurons and which might be exploited to effectively treat chronic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saak V Ovsepian
- School of Science, Faculty of Engineering and Science, University of Greenwich London, Chatham Maritime, UK.
| | - Stephen G Waxman
- Department of Neurology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
- Department of Neuroscience, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
- Department of Pharmacology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
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11
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Wen CH, Berkman T, Li X, Du S, Govindarajalu G, Zhang H, Bekker A, Davidson S, Tao YX. Effect of intrathecal NIS-lncRNA antisense oligonucleotides on neuropathic pain caused by nerve trauma, chemotherapy, or diabetes mellitus. Br J Anaesth 2023; 130:202-216. [PMID: 36460518 PMCID: PMC9997083 DOI: 10.1016/j.bja.2022.09.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Blocking increased expression of nerve injury-specific long non-coding RNA (NIS-lncRNA) in injured dorsal root ganglia (DRG) through DRG microinjection of NIS-lncRNA small hairpin interfering RNA or generation of NIS-lncRNA knockdown mice mitigates neuropathic pain. However, these strategies are impractical in the clinic. This study employed a Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved antisense oligonucleotides strategy to examine the effect of NIS-lncRNA ASOs on neuropathic pain. METHODS Effects of intrathecal injection of NIS-lncRNA antisense oligonucleotides on day 7 or 14 after chronic constriction injury (CCI) of the sciatic nerve, fourth lumbar (L4) spinal nerve ligation, or intraperitoneal injection of paclitaxel or streptozotocin on the expression of DRG NIS-lncRNA and C-C chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2, an NIS-lncRNA downstream target) and nociceptive hypersensitivity were examined. We also assessed whether NIS-lncRNA antisense oligonucleotides produced cellular toxicity. RESULTS Intrathecal NIS-lncRNA antisense oligonucleotides attenuated CCI-induced mechanical allodynia, heat hyperalgesia, cold hyperalgesia, and ongoing nociceptive responses, without changing basal or acute nociceptive responses and locomotor function. Intrathecal NIS-lncRNA antisense oligonucleotides also blocked CCI-induced increases in NIS-lncRNA and CCL2 in the ipsilateral L3 and L4 DRG and hyperactivities of neurones and astrocytes in the ipsilateral L3 and L4 spinal cord dorsal horn. Similar results were found in antisense oligonucleotides-treated mice after spinal nerve ligation or intraperitoneal injection of paclitaxel or streptozotocin. Normal morphologic structure and no cell loss were observed in the DRG and spinal cord of antisense oligonucleotides-treated mice. CONCLUSION These findings further validate the role of NIS-lncRNA in trauma-, chemotherapy-, or diabetes-induced neuropathic pain and demonstrate potential clinical application of NIS-lncRNA antisense oligonucleotides for neuropathic pain management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Hsien Wen
- Department of Anaesthesiology, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Tolga Berkman
- Department of Anaesthesiology, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Xiang Li
- Department of Anaesthesiology, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Shibin Du
- Department of Anaesthesiology, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Gokulapriya Govindarajalu
- Department of Anaesthesiology, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Haijun Zhang
- Department of Anaesthesiology, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Alex Bekker
- Department of Anaesthesiology, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Steve Davidson
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Pain Research Centre, and Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Yuan-Xiang Tao
- Department of Anaesthesiology, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, USA; Department of Physiology, Pharmacology & Neuroscience, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, USA; Department of Cell Biology & Molecular Medicine, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, USA.
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12
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Alsaloum M, Labau JIR, Liu S, Effraim PR, Waxman SG. Stem cell-derived sensory neurons modelling inherited erythromelalgia: normalization of excitability. Brain 2023; 146:359-371. [PMID: 35088838 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awac031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2021] [Revised: 12/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Effective treatment of pain remains an unmet healthcare need that requires new and effective therapeutic approaches. NaV1.7 has been genetically and functionally validated as a mediator of pain. Preclinical studies of NaV1.7-selective blockers have shown limited success and translation to clinical studies has been limited. The degree of NaV1.7 channel blockade necessary to attenuate neuronal excitability and ameliorate pain is an unanswered question important for drug discovery. Here, we utilize dynamic clamp electrophysiology and induced pluripotent stem cell-derived sensory neurons (iPSC-SNs) to answer this question for inherited erythromelalgia, a pain disorder caused by gain-of-function mutations in Nav1.7. We show that dynamic clamp can produce hyperexcitability in iPSC-SNs associated with two different inherited erythromelalgia mutations, NaV1.7-S241T and NaV1.7-I848T. We further show that blockade of approximately 50% of NaV1.7 currents can reverse neuronal hyperexcitability to baseline levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Alsaloum
- Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA.,Center for Neuroscience and Regeneration Research, Yale University, West Haven, CT 06516, USA.,Center for Rehabilitation Research, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT 06516, USA.,Yale Medical Scientist Training Program, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA.,Interdepartmental Neuroscience Program, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Julie I R Labau
- Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA.,Center for Neuroscience and Regeneration Research, Yale University, West Haven, CT 06516, USA.,Center for Rehabilitation Research, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT 06516, USA.,Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Medical Technology Assessment (KEMTA), Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,Department of Clinical Genetics, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Shujun Liu
- Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA.,Center for Neuroscience and Regeneration Research, Yale University, West Haven, CT 06516, USA.,Center for Rehabilitation Research, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT 06516, USA
| | - Philip R Effraim
- Center for Neuroscience and Regeneration Research, Yale University, West Haven, CT 06516, USA.,Center for Rehabilitation Research, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT 06516, USA.,Department of Anesthesiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Stephen G Waxman
- Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA.,Center for Neuroscience and Regeneration Research, Yale University, West Haven, CT 06516, USA.,Center for Rehabilitation Research, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT 06516, USA
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13
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Miyashita A, Kobayashi M, Ishibashi S, Nagata T, Chandrasekhar A, Zochodne DW, Yokota T. The Role of Long Noncoding RNA MALAT1 in Diabetic Polyneuropathy and the Impact of Its Silencing in the Dorsal Root Ganglion by a DNA/RNA Heteroduplex Oligonucleotide. Diabetes 2022; 71:1299-1312. [PMID: 35276003 DOI: 10.2337/db21-0918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 03/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Diabetic polyneuropathy (DPN) is the most common complication of diabetes, yet its pathophysiology has not been established. Accumulating evidence suggests that long noncoding RNA metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1) plays pivotal roles in the regulation of cell growth and survival during diabetic complications. This study aimed to investigate the impact of MALAT1 silencing in dorsal root ganglion (DRG) sensory neurons, using an α-tocopherol-conjugated DNA/RNA heteroduplex oligonucleotide (Toc-HDO), on the peripheral nervous system of diabetic mice. We identified MALAT1 upregulation in the DRG of chronic diabetic mice that suggested either a pathological change or one that might be protective, and systemic intravenous injection of Toc-HDO effectively inhibited its gene expression. However, we unexpectedly noted that this intervention paradoxically exacerbated disease with increased thermal and mechanical nociceptive thresholds, indicating further sensory loss, greater sciatic-tibial nerve conduction slowing, and additional declines of intraepidermal nerve fiber density in the hind paw footpads. Serine/arginine-rich splicing factors, which are involved in pre-mRNA splicing by interacting with MALAT1, reside in nuclear speckles in wild-type and diabetic DRG neurons; MALAT1 silencing was associated with their disruption. The findings provide evidence for an important role that MALAT1 plays in DPN, suggesting neuroprotection and regulation of pre-mRNA splicing in nuclear speckles. This is also the first example in which a systemically delivered nucleotide therapy had a direct impact on DRG diabetic neurons and their axons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akiko Miyashita
- Department of Neurology, Neurological Science, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
- Center for Brain Integration Research, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masaki Kobayashi
- Department of Neurology, Neurological Science, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
- Center for Brain Integration Research, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Neurology, Nissan Tamagawa Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Satoru Ishibashi
- Department of Neurology, Neurological Science, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
- Center for Brain Integration Research, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Nagata
- Department of Neurology, Neurological Science, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
- Center for Brain Integration Research, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ambika Chandrasekhar
- Division of Neurology and Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, and Neuroscience and Mental Health Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Douglas W Zochodne
- Division of Neurology and Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, and Neuroscience and Mental Health Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Takanori Yokota
- Department of Neurology, Neurological Science, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
- Center for Brain Integration Research, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
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14
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Kaburagi H, Nagata T, Enomoto M, Hirai T, Ohyagi M, Ihara K, Yoshida-Tanaka K, Ebihara S, Asada K, Yokoyama H, Okawa A, Yokota T. Systemic DNA/RNA heteroduplex oligonucleotide administration for regulating the gene expression of dorsal root ganglion and sciatic nerve. MOLECULAR THERAPY - NUCLEIC ACIDS 2022; 28:910-919. [PMID: 35694210 PMCID: PMC9167871 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2022.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Neuropathic pain, a heterogeneous condition, affects 7%–10% of the general population. To date, efficacious and safe therapeutic approaches remain limited. Antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) therapy has opened the door to treat spinal muscular atrophy, with many ongoing clinical studies determining its therapeutic utility. ASO therapy for neuropathic pain and peripheral nerve disease requires efficient gene delivery and knockdown in both the dorsal root ganglion (DRG) and sciatic nerve, key tissues for pain signaling. We previously developed a new DNA/RNA heteroduplex oligonucleotide (HDO) technology that achieves highly efficient gene knockdown in the liver. Here, we demonstrated that intravenous injection of HDO, comprising an ASO and its complementary RNA conjugated to α-tocopherol, silences endogenous gene expression more than 2-fold in the DRG, and sciatic nerve with higher potency, efficacy, and broader distribution than ASO alone. Of note, we observed drastic target suppression in all sizes of neuronal DRG populations by in situ hybridization. Our findings establish HDO delivery as an investigative and potentially therapeutic platform for neuropathic pain and peripheral nerve disease.
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15
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Boinon L, Yu J, Madura CL, Chefdeville A, Feinstein DL, Moutal A, Khanna R. Conditional knockout of CRMP2 in neurons, but not astrocytes, disrupts spinal nociceptive neurotransmission to control the initiation and maintenance of chronic neuropathic pain. Pain 2022; 163:e368-e381. [PMID: 35029600 PMCID: PMC8760468 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Mechanistic studies principally focusing on primary afferent nociceptive neurons uncovered the upregulation of collapsin response mediator protein 2 (CRMP2)-a dual trafficking regulator of N-type voltage-gated calcium (Cav2.2) as well as Nav1.7 voltage-gated sodium channels-as a potential determinant of neuropathic pain. Whether CRMP2 contributes to aberrant excitatory synaptic transmission underlying neuropathic pain processing after peripheral nerve injury is unknown. Here, we interrogated CRMP2's role in synaptic transmission and in the initiation or maintenance of chronic pain. In rats, short-interfering RNA-mediated knockdown of CRMP2 in the spinal cord reduced the frequency and amplitude of spontaneous excitatory postsynaptic currents, but not spontaneous inhibitory postsynaptic currents, recorded from superficial dorsal horn neurons in acute spinal cord slices. No effect was observed on miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents and inhibitory postsynaptic currents. In a complementary targeted approach, conditional knockout of CRMP2 from mouse neurons using a calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II alpha promoter to drive Cre recombinase expression reduced the frequency and amplitude of spontaneous excitatory postsynaptic currents, but not miniature excitatory SCss. Conditional knockout of CRMP2 from mouse astrocytes using a glial fibrillary acidic protein promoter had no effect on synaptic transmission. Conditional knockout of CRMP2 in neurons reversed established mechanical allodynia induced by a spared nerve injury in both male and female mice. In addition, the development of spared nerve injury-induced allodynia was also prevented in these mice. Our data strongly suggest that CRMP2 is a key regulator of glutamatergic neurotransmission driving pain signaling and that it contributes to the transition of physiological pain into pathological pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Boinon
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, the University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85724 United States of America
| | - Jie Yu
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, the University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85724 United States of America
| | - Cynthia L. Madura
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, the University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85724 United States of America
| | - Aude Chefdeville
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, the University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85724 United States of America
| | - Douglas L. Feinstein
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Illinois, Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60612, United States of America
- Jesse Brown VA Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, 60612, United States of America
| | - Aubin Moutal
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, the University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85724 United States of America
| | - Rajesh Khanna
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, the University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85724 United States of America
- Comprehensive Pain and Addiction Center, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85724, United States of America
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16
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Suppression of mutant C9orf72 expression by a potent mixed backbone antisense oligonucleotide. Nat Med 2021; 28:117-124. [PMID: 34949835 DOI: 10.1038/s41591-021-01557-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Expansions of a G4C2 repeat in the C9ORF72 gene are the most common genetic cause of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD), two devastating adult-onset neurodegenerative disorders. Using C9-ALS/FTD patient-derived cells and C9ORF72 BAC transgenic mice, we generated and optimized antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) that selectively blunt expression of G4C2 repeat-containing transcripts and effectively suppress tissue levels of poly(GP) dipeptides. ASOs with reduced phosphorothioate content showed improved tolerability without sacrificing efficacy. In a single patient harboring mutant C9ORF72 with the G4C2 repeat expansion, repeated dosing by intrathecal delivery of the optimal ASO was well tolerated, leading to significant reductions in levels of cerebrospinal fluid poly(GP). This report provides insight into the effect of nucleic acid chemistry on toxicity and, to our knowledge, for the first time demonstrates the feasibility of clinical suppression of the C9ORF72 gene. Additional clinical trials will be required to demonstrate safety and efficacy of this therapy in patients with C9ORF72 gene mutations.
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Shadid M, Badawi M, Abulrob A. Antisense oligonucleotides: absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion. Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol 2021; 17:1281-1292. [PMID: 34643122 DOI: 10.1080/17425255.2021.1992382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) have emerged as a promising novel drug modality that aims to address unmet medical needs. A record of six ASO drugs have been approved since 2016, and more candidates are in clinical development. ASOs are the most advanced class within the RNA-based therapeutics field. AREAS COVERED This review highlights the two major backbones that are currently used to build the most advanced ASO platforms - the phosphorodiamidate morpholino oligomers (PMOs) and the phosphorothioates (PSs). The absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) properties of the PMO and PS platforms are discussed in detail. EXPERT OPINION Understanding the ADME properties of existing ASOs can foster further improvement of this cutting-edge therapy, thereby enabling researchers to safely develop ASO drugs and enhancing their ability to innovate. ABBREVIATIONS 2'-MOE, 2'-O-methoxyethyl; 2'PS, 2 modified PS; ADME, absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion; ASO, antisense oligonucleotide; AUC, area under the curve; BNA, bridged nucleic acid; CPP, cell-penetrating peptide; CMV, cytomegalovirus; CNS, central nervous system; CYP, cytochrome P; DDI, drug-drug interaction; DMD, Duchenne muscular dystrophy; FDA, Food and Drug Administration; GalNAc3, triantennary N-acetyl galactosamine; IT, intrathecal; IV, intravenous; LNA, locked nucleic acid; mRNA, messenger RNA; NA, not applicable; PBPK, physiologically based pharmacokinetics; PD, pharmacodynamic; PK, pharmacokinetic; PMO, phosphorodiamidate morpholino oligomer; PMOplus, PMOs with positionally specific positive molecular charges; PPMO, peptide-conjugated PMO; PS, phosphorothioate; SC, subcutaneous; siRNA, small-interfering RNA; SMA, spinal muscular atrophy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Shadid
- Nonclinical Development, Sarepta Therapeutics, Inc, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Mohamed Badawi
- Clinical Pharmacology Fellow, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Abedelnasser Abulrob
- Senior Research Officer, Human Health Therapeutics Centre, Translational Bioscience, National Research Council Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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18
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Alvarez P, Bogen O, Green PG, Levine JD. Nociceptor Overexpression of Na V1.7 Contributes to Chronic Muscle Pain Induced by Early-Life Stress. THE JOURNAL OF PAIN 2021; 22:806-816. [PMID: 33636374 PMCID: PMC8406703 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2021.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Revised: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Adult rats previously submitted to neonatal limited bedding (NLB), a model of early-life stress, display muscle mechanical hyperalgesia and nociceptor hyperexcitability, the underlying mechanism for which is unknown. Since voltage-gated sodium channel subtype 7 (NaV1.7) contributes to mechanical hyperalgesia in several preclinical pain models and is critical for nociceptor excitability, we explored its role in the muscle hyperalgesia exhibited by adult NLB rats. Western blot analyses demonstrated increased NaV1.7 protein expression in L4-L5 dorsal root ganglia (DRG) from adult NLB rats, and antisense oligodeoxynucleotide (AS ODN) targeting NaV1.7 alpha subunit mRNA attenuated the expression of NaV1.7 in DRG extracts. While this AS ODN did not affect nociceptive threshold in normal rats it significantly attenuated hyperalgesia in NLB rats. The selective NaV1.7 activator OD1 produced dose-dependent mechanical hyperalgesia that was enhanced in NLB rats, whereas the NaV1.7 blocker ProTx-II prevented OD1-induced hyperalgesia in control rats and ongoing hyperalgesia in NLB rats. AS ODN knockdown of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2, which enhances NaV1.7 function, also inhibited mechanical hyperalgesia in NLB rats. Our results support the hypothesis that overexpression of NaV1.7 in muscle nociceptors play a role in chronic muscle pain induced by early-life stress, suggesting that NaV1.7 is a target for the treatment of chronic muscle pain. PERSPECTIVE: We demonstrate that early-life adversity, induced by exposure to inconsistent maternal care, produces chronic muscle hyperalgesia, which depends, at least in part, on increased expression of NaV1.7 in nociceptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Alvarez
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Oliver Bogen
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California; UCSF Pain and Addiction Research Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Paul G Green
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California; UCSF Pain and Addiction Research Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California; Department of Preventative and Restorative Dental Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Jon D Levine
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California; UCSF Pain and Addiction Research Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California; Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California.
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19
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Moreno AM, Alemán F, Catroli GF, Hunt M, Hu M, Dailamy A, Pla A, Woller SA, Palmer N, Parekh U, McDonald D, Roberts AJ, Goodwill V, Dryden I, Hevner RF, Delay L, Gonçalves Dos Santos G, Yaksh TL, Mali P. Long-lasting analgesia via targeted in situ repression of Na V1.7 in mice. Sci Transl Med 2021; 13:eaay9056. [PMID: 33692134 PMCID: PMC8830379 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.aay9056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2019] [Revised: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Current treatments for chronic pain rely largely on opioids despite their substantial side effects and risk of addiction. Genetic studies have identified in humans key targets pivotal to nociceptive processing. In particular, a hereditary loss-of-function mutation in NaV1.7, a sodium channel protein associated with signaling in nociceptive sensory afferents, leads to insensitivity to pain without other neurodevelopmental alterations. However, the high sequence and structural similarity between NaV subtypes has frustrated efforts to develop selective inhibitors. Here, we investigated targeted epigenetic repression of NaV1.7 in primary afferents via epigenome engineering approaches based on clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-dCas9 and zinc finger proteins at the spinal level as a potential treatment for chronic pain. Toward this end, we first optimized the efficiency of NaV1.7 repression in vitro in Neuro2A cells and then, by the lumbar intrathecal route, delivered both epigenome engineering platforms via adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) to assess their effects in three mouse models of pain: carrageenan-induced inflammatory pain, paclitaxel-induced neuropathic pain, and BzATP-induced pain. Our results show effective repression of NaV1.7 in lumbar dorsal root ganglia, reduced thermal hyperalgesia in the inflammatory state, decreased tactile allodynia in the neuropathic state, and no changes in normal motor function in mice. We anticipate that this long-lasting analgesia via targeted in vivo epigenetic repression of NaV1.7 methodology we dub pain LATER, might have therapeutic potential in management of persistent pain states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana M Moreno
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
| | - Fernando Alemán
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
| | - Glaucilene F Catroli
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
| | - Matthew Hunt
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
| | - Michael Hu
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
| | - Amir Dailamy
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
| | - Andrew Pla
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
| | - Sarah A Woller
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
| | - Nathan Palmer
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of California San Diego , San Diego, CA 92093, USA
| | - Udit Parekh
- Department of Electrical Engineering, University of California San Diego , San Diego, CA 92093, USA
| | - Daniella McDonald
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
- Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, University of California San Diego, San Diego, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
| | - Amanda J Roberts
- Animal Models Core, Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Vanessa Goodwill
- Department of Neuropathology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
| | - Ian Dryden
- Department of Neuropathology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
| | - Robert F Hevner
- Department of Neuropathology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
| | - Lauriane Delay
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
| | | | - Tony L Yaksh
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA 92093, USA.
| | - Prashant Mali
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA 92093, USA.
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20
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MicroRNA-96 is required to prevent allodynia by repressing voltage-gated sodium channels in spinal cord. Prog Neurobiol 2021; 202:102024. [PMID: 33636225 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2021.102024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Revised: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 02/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Voltage-gated sodium channels (Navs) 1.7, 1.8, and 1.9 are predominately expressed in peripheral sensory neurons and are critical for action potential propagation in nociceptors. Unexpectedly, we found that expression of SCN9A, SCN10A, SCN11A, and SCN2A, the alpha subunit of Nav1.7, Nav1.8, Nav1.9 and Nav1.2, respectively, are up-regulated in spinal dorsal horn (SDH) neurons of miR-96 knockout mice. These mice also have de-repression of CACNA2D1/2 in DRG and display thermal and mechanical allodynia that could be attenuated by intrathecal or intraperitoneal injection of Nav1.7 or Nav1.8 blockers or Gabapentin. Moreover, Gad2::CreERT2 conditional miR-96 knockout mice phenocopied global knockout mice, implicating inhibitory neurons; nerve injury induced significant loss of miR-96 in SDH GABAergic and Glutamatergic neurons in mice which negatively correlated to up-regulation of Nav1.7, Nav1.8, Nav1.9 and Scn2a, this dis-regulation of miR-96 and Navs in SDH neurons contributed to neuropathic pain which can be alleviated by intrathecal injection of Nav1.7 or Nav1.8 blockers. In conclusion, miR-96 is required to avoid allodynia through limiting the expression of VGCCs and Navs in DRG and Navs in SDH in naïve and nerve injury-induced neuropathic pain mice. Our findings suggest that central nervous system penetrating Nav1.7 and Nav1.8 blockers may be efficacious for pain relief.
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21
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Abstract
The genetic basis for most inherited neurodegenerative diseases has been identified, yet there are limited disease-modifying therapies for these patients. A new class of drugs-antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs)-show promise as a therapeutic platform for treating neurological diseases. ASOs are designed to bind to the RNAs either by promoting degradation of the targeted RNA or by elevating expression by RNA splicing. Intrathecal injection into the cerebral spinal fluid results in broad distribution of antisense drugs and long-term effects. Approval of nusinersen in 2016 demonstrated that effective treatments for neurodegenerative diseases can be identified and that treatments not only slow disease progression but also improve some symptoms. Antisense drugs are currently in development for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Huntington's disease, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and Angelman syndrome, and several drugs are in late-stage research for additional neurological diseases. This review highlights the advances in antisense technology as potential treatments for neurological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Frank Bennett
- Ionis Pharmaceuticals Inc., Carlsbad, California 92010, USA;
| | | | - Don W Cleveland
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research and Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, USA
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22
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Yaksh TL. Frontiers in Pain Research: A Scope of Its Focus and Content. FRONTIERS IN PAIN RESEARCH 2020; 1:601528. [PMID: 35295691 PMCID: PMC8915630 DOI: 10.3389/fpain.2020.601528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
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23
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Vega-Loza A, Van C, M Moreno A, Aleman F. Gene therapies to reduce chronic pain: are we there yet? Pain Manag 2020; 10:209-212. [PMID: 32677877 DOI: 10.2217/pmt-2020-0021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Vega-Loza
- Navega Therapeutics, 3210 Merryfield Row, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - Christina Van
- Navega Therapeutics, 3210 Merryfield Row, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - Ana M Moreno
- Navega Therapeutics, 3210 Merryfield Row, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - Fernando Aleman
- Navega Therapeutics, 3210 Merryfield Row, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
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24
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de la Peña JBI, Song JJ, Campbell ZT. RNA control in pain: Blame it on the messenger. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS-RNA 2019; 10:e1546. [PMID: 31090211 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2019] [Revised: 04/17/2019] [Accepted: 04/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
mRNA function is meticulously controlled. We provide an overview of the integral role that posttranscriptional controls play in the perception of painful stimuli by sensory neurons. These specialized cells, termed nociceptors, precisely regulate mRNA polarity, translation, and stability. A growing body of evidence has revealed that targeted disruption of mRNAs and RNA-binding proteins robustly diminishes pain-associated behaviors. We propose that the use of multiple independent regulatory paradigms facilitates robust temporal and spatial precision of protein expression in response to a range of pain-promoting stimuli. This article is categorized under: RNA in Disease and Development > RNA in Disease Translation > Translation Regulation RNA Turnover and Surveillance > Regulation of RNA Stability.
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Affiliation(s)
- June Bryan I de la Peña
- Department of Biological Sciences and the Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas, Dallas, Richardson, Texas
| | - Jane J Song
- Department of Biological Sciences and the Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas, Dallas, Richardson, Texas
| | - Zachary T Campbell
- Department of Biological Sciences and the Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas, Dallas, Richardson, Texas
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