1
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Subramaniam KS, Antoniou MN, McGrath JA, Lwin SM. The potential of gene therapy for recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa. Br J Dermatol 2021; 186:609-619. [PMID: 34862606 DOI: 10.1111/bjd.20910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Revised: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Epidermolysis bullosa (EB) encompasses a heterogeneous group of inherited skin fragility disorders with mutations in genes encoding the basement membrane zone (BMZ) proteins that normally ensure dermal-epidermal integrity. Of the four main EB types, recessive dystrophic EB (RDEB), especially the severe variant, represents one of the most debilitating clinical entities with recurrent mucocutaneous blistering and ulceration leading to chronic wounds, infections, inflammation, scarring and ultimately cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma, which leads to premature death. Improved understanding of the molecular genetics of EB over the past three decades and advances in biotechnology has led to rapid progress in developing gene and cell-based regenerative therapies for EB. In particular, RDEB is at the vanguard of advances in human clinical trials of advanced therapeutics. Furthermore, the past decade has witnessed the emergence of a real collective, global effort involving academia and industry, supported by international EB patient organisations such as the Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa Research Association (DEBRA), amongst others, to develop clinically relevant and marketable targeted therapeutics for EB. Thus, there is an increasing need for the practising dermatologist to become familiar with the concept of gene therapy, fundamental differences between various approaches and their human applications. This review explains the principles of different approaches of gene therapy; summarises its journey and discusses its current and future impact in RDEB.
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Affiliation(s)
- K S Subramaniam
- Genetic Skin Diseases Group, St John's Institute of Dermatology, King's College London, Guy's Hospital, London, UK
| | - M N Antoniou
- Gene Expression and Therapy Group, Department of Medical & Molecular Genetics, King's College London, Guy's Hospital, London, UK
| | - J A McGrath
- Genetic Skin Diseases Group, St John's Institute of Dermatology, King's College London, Guy's Hospital, London, UK
| | - S M Lwin
- Genetic Skin Diseases Group, St John's Institute of Dermatology, King's College London, Guy's Hospital, London, UK
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2
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Wang Y, Zou Q, Li F, Zhao W, Xu H, Zhang W, Deng H, Yang X. Identification of the cross-strand chimeric RNAs generated by fusions of bi-directional transcripts. Nat Commun 2021; 12:4645. [PMID: 34330918 PMCID: PMC8324879 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-24910-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
A major part of the transcriptome complexity is attributed to multiple types of DNA or RNA fusion events, which take place within a gene such as alternative splicing or between different genes such as DNA rearrangement and trans-splicing. In the present study, using the RNA deep sequencing data, we systematically survey a type of non-canonical fusions between the RNA transcripts from the two opposite DNA strands. We name the products of such fusion events cross-strand chimeric RNA (cscRNA). Hundreds to thousands of cscRNAs can be found in human normal tissues, primary cells, and cancerous cells, and in other species as well. Although cscRNAs exhibit strong tissue-specificity, our analysis identifies thousands of recurrent cscRNAs found in multiple different samples. cscRNAs are mostly originated from convergent transcriptions of the annotated genes and their anti-sense DNA. The machinery of cscRNA biogenesis is unclear, but the cross-strand junction events show some features related to RNA splicing. The present study is a comprehensive survey of the non-canonical cross-strand RNA junction events, a resource for further characterization of the originations and functions of the cscRNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuting Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinformatics, Center for Synthetic & Systems Biology, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.,Joint Graduate Program of Peking-Tsinghua-National Institute of Biological Science, Beijing, China
| | - Qin Zou
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinformatics, Center for Synthetic & Systems Biology, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Fajin Li
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinformatics, Center for Synthetic & Systems Biology, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.,Joint Graduate Program of Peking-Tsinghua-National Institute of Biological Science, Beijing, China
| | - Wenwei Zhao
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinformatics, Center for Synthetic & Systems Biology, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Hui Xu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinformatics, Center for Synthetic & Systems Biology, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Wenhao Zhang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinformatics, Center for Synthetic & Systems Biology, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Haiteng Deng
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinformatics, Center for Synthetic & Systems Biology, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Xuerui Yang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinformatics, Center for Synthetic & Systems Biology, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.
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3
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Prodinger C, Reichelt J, Bauer JW, Laimer M. Epidermolysis bullosa: Advances in research and treatment. Exp Dermatol 2019; 28:1176-1189. [PMID: 31140655 PMCID: PMC6900197 DOI: 10.1111/exd.13979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2018] [Accepted: 05/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Epidermolysis bullosa (EB) is the umbrella term for a group of rare inherited skin fragility disorders caused by mutations in at least 20 different genes. There is no cure for any of the subtypes of EB resulting from different mutations, and current therapy only focuses on the management of wounds and pain. Novel effective therapeutic approaches are therefore urgently required. Strategies include gene‐, protein‐ and cell‐based therapies. This review discusses molecular procedures currently under investigation at the EB House Austria, a designated Centre of Expertise implemented in the European Reference Network for Rare and Undiagnosed Skin Diseases. Current clinical research activities at the EB House Austria include newly developed candidate substances that have emerged out of our translational research initiatives as well as already commercially available medications that are applied in off‐licensed indications. Squamous cell carcinoma is the major cause of death in severe forms of EB. We are evaluating immunotherapy using an anti‐PD1 monoclonal antibody as a palliative treatment option for locally advanced or metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the skin unresponsive to previous systemic therapy. In addition, we are evaluating topical calcipotriol and topical diacerein as potential agents to improve the healing of skin wounds in EBS patients. Finally, the review will highlight the recent advancements of gene therapy development for EB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Prodinger
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria.,Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Julia Reichelt
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Johann W Bauer
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria.,Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Martin Laimer
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria.,Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
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4
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Sun Y, Piñón Hofbauer J, Harada M, Wöss K, Koller U, Morio H, Stierschneider A, Kitamura K, Hashimoto M, Chiba K, Akita H, Anzai N, Reichelt J, Bauer JW, Guttmann-Gruber C, Furihata T. Cancer-type organic anion transporting polypeptide 1B3 is a target for cancer suicide gene therapy using RNA trans-splicing technology. Cancer Lett 2018; 433:107-116. [PMID: 29960051 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2018.06.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2018] [Revised: 05/30/2018] [Accepted: 06/18/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Cancer-type organic anion transporting polypeptide 1B3 (Ct-OATP1B3) has been identified as a cancer-specific transcript in various solid cancers, including colorectal cancer. Given its excellent cancer-specific expression profile, we hypothesized that Ct-OATP1B3 could represent a promising target for cancer-specific expression of the suicide gene, herpes simplex virus 1 thymidine kinase (HSV-tk), via a spliceosome-mediated RNA trans-splicing (SMaRT) approach. SMaRT technology is used to recombine two RNA molecules to generate a chimeric transcript. In this study, we engineered an RNA trans-splicing molecule carrying a translation-defective HSV-tk sequence (RTM44), which was capable of inducing its own trans-splicing to the desired Ct-OATP1B3 pre-mRNA target. RTM44 expression in LS180 cells resulted in generation of Ct-OATP1B3/HSV-tk fusion mRNA. A functional translation start site contributed by the target pre-mRNA restored HSV-tk protein expression, rendering LS180 cells sensitive to ganciclovir treatment in vitro and in xenografted mice. The observed effects are ascribed to accurate and efficient trans-splicing, as they were absent in cells carrying a splicing-deficient mutant of RTM44. Collectively, our data highlights Ct-OATP1B3 as an ideal target for the HSV-tk SMaRT suicide system, which opens up new translational avenues for Ct-OATP1B3-targeted cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuchen Sun
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan; EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Josefina Piñón Hofbauer
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Manami Harada
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Katharina Wöss
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Ulrich Koller
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Hanae Morio
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan; Department of Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Anna Stierschneider
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Keita Kitamura
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Mari Hashimoto
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Kan Chiba
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Hidetaka Akita
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Naohiko Anzai
- Department of Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Julia Reichelt
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Johann W Bauer
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Christina Guttmann-Gruber
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria.
| | - Tomomi Furihata
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan; Department of Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan.
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5
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Liemberger B, Piñón Hofbauer J, Wally V, Arzt C, Hainzl S, Kocher T, Murauer EM, Bauer JW, Reichelt J, Koller U. RNA Trans-Splicing Modulation via Antisense Molecule Interference. Int J Mol Sci 2018. [PMID: 29518954 PMCID: PMC5877623 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19030762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, RNA trans-splicing has emerged as a suitable RNA editing tool for the specific replacement of mutated gene regions at the pre-mRNA level. Although the technology has been successfully applied for the restoration of protein function in various genetic diseases, a higher trans-splicing efficiency is still desired to facilitate its clinical application. Here, we describe a modified, easily applicable, fluorescence-based screening system for the generation and analysis of antisense molecules specifically capable of improving the RNA reprogramming efficiency of a selected KRT14-specific RNA trans-splicing molecule. Using this screening procedure, we identified several antisense RNAs and short rationally designed oligonucleotides, which are able to increase the trans-splicing efficiency. Thus, we assume that besides the RNA trans-splicing molecule, short antisense molecules can act as splicing modulators, thereby increasing the trans-splicing efficiency to a level that may be sufficient to overcome the effects of certain genetic predispositions, particularly those associated with dominantly inherited diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernadette Liemberger
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria.
| | - Josefina Piñón Hofbauer
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria.
| | - Verena Wally
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria.
| | - Claudia Arzt
- Laboratory for Immunological and Molecular Cancer Research, Department of Internal Medicine III with Hematology, Medical Oncology, Hemostaseology, Infectious Diseases, Rheumatology, Oncologic Center, Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria.
| | - Stefan Hainzl
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria.
| | - Thomas Kocher
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria.
| | - Eva M Murauer
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria.
| | - Johann W Bauer
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria.
| | - Julia Reichelt
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria.
| | - Ulrich Koller
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria.
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6
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Azibani F, Brull A, Arandel L, Beuvin M, Nelson I, Jollet A, Ziat E, Prudhon B, Benkhelifa-Ziyyat S, Bitoun M, Lorain S, Bonne G, Bertrand AT. Gene Therapy via Trans-Splicing for LMNA-Related Congenital Muscular Dystrophy. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2017; 10:376-386. [PMID: 29499949 PMCID: PMC5862133 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2017.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2017] [Revised: 12/20/2017] [Accepted: 12/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
We assessed the potential of Lmna-mRNA repair by spliceosome-mediated RNA trans-splicing as a therapeutic approach for LMNA-related congenital muscular dystrophy. This gene therapy strategy leads to reduction of mutated transcript expression for the benefit of corresponding wild-type (WT) transcripts. We developed 5′-RNA pre-trans-splicing molecules containing the first five exons of Lmna and targeting intron 5 of Lmna pre-mRNA. Among nine pre-trans-splicing molecules, differing in the targeted sequence in intron 5 and tested in C2C12 myoblasts, three induced trans-splicing events on endogenous Lmna mRNA and confirmed at protein level. Further analyses performed in primary myotubes derived from an LMNA-related congenital muscular dystrophy (L-CMD) mouse model led to a partial rescue of the mutant phenotype. Finally, we tested this approach in vivo using adeno-associated virus (AAV) delivery in newborn mice and showed that trans-splicing events occurred in WT mice 50 days after AAV delivery, although at a low rate. Altogether, while these results provide the first evidence for reprogramming LMNA mRNA in vitro, strategies to improve the rate of trans-splicing events still need to be developed for efficient application of this therapeutic approach in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feriel Azibani
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM UMRS_974, Center of Research in Myology, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Astrid Brull
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM UMRS_974, Center of Research in Myology, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Ludovic Arandel
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM UMRS_974, Center of Research in Myology, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Maud Beuvin
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM UMRS_974, Center of Research in Myology, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Isabelle Nelson
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM UMRS_974, Center of Research in Myology, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Arnaud Jollet
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM UMRS_974, Center of Research in Myology, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Esma Ziat
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM UMRS_974, Center of Research in Myology, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Bernard Prudhon
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM UMRS_974, Center of Research in Myology, 75013 Paris, France
| | | | - Marc Bitoun
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM UMRS_974, Center of Research in Myology, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Stéphanie Lorain
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM UMRS_974, Center of Research in Myology, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Gisèle Bonne
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM UMRS_974, Center of Research in Myology, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Anne T Bertrand
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM UMRS_974, Center of Research in Myology, 75013 Paris, France.
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7
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Peking P, Koller U, Duarte B, Murillas R, Wolf S, Maetzig T, Rothe M, Kocher T, García M, Brachtl G, Schambach A, Larcher F, Reichelt J, Bauer JW, Murauer EM. An RNA-targeted therapy for dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa. Nucleic Acids Res 2017; 45:10259-10269. [PMID: 28973459 PMCID: PMC5737646 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkx669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2017] [Accepted: 07/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Functional impairment or complete loss of type VII collagen, caused by mutations within COL7A1, lead to the severe recessive form of the skin blistering disease dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB). Here, we successfully demonstrate RNA trans-splicing as an auspicious repair option for mutations located in a wide range of exons by fully converting an RDEB phenotype in an ex vivo pre-clinical mouse model based on xenotransplantation. Via a self-inactivating (SIN) lentiviral vector a 3' RNA trans-splicing molecule, capable of replacing COL7A1 exons 65-118, was delivered into type VII collagen deficient patient keratinocytes, carrying a homozygous mutation in exon 80 (c.6527insC). Following vector integration, protein analysis of an isolated corrected single cell clone showed secretion of the corrected type VII collagen at similar levels compared to normal keratinocytes. To confirm full phenotypic and long-term correction in vivo, patches of skin equivalents expanded from the corrected cell clone were grafted onto immunodeficient mice. Immunolabelling of 12 weeks old skin specimens showed strong expression of human type VII collagen restricted to the basement membrane zone. We demonstrate that the RNA trans-splicing technology combined with a SIN lentiviral vector is suitable for an ex vivo molecular therapy approach and thus adaptable for clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Peking
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Austria
| | - Ulrich Koller
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Austria
| | - Blanca Duarte
- Epithelial Biomedicine Division, CIEMAT-CIBERER, Department of Bioengineering, UC3M, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rodolfo Murillas
- Epithelial Biomedicine Division, CIEMAT-CIBERER, Department of Bioengineering, UC3M, Madrid, Spain
| | - Susanne Wolf
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Tobias Maetzig
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Michael Rothe
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Thomas Kocher
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Austria
| | - Marta García
- Epithelial Biomedicine Division, CIEMAT-CIBERER, Department of Bioengineering, UC3M, Madrid, Spain
| | - Gabriele Brachtl
- Institute for Experimental and Clinical Cell Therapy, Core Facility for Flow Cytometry, SCI-TRECS, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Axel Schambach
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.,Division of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Fernando Larcher
- Epithelial Biomedicine Division, CIEMAT-CIBERER, Department of Bioengineering, UC3M, Madrid, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de la Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Madrid, Spain
| | - Julia Reichelt
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Austria
| | - Johann W Bauer
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Eva M Murauer
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Austria
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8
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Suñé-Pou M, Prieto-Sánchez S, Boyero-Corral S, Moreno-Castro C, El Yousfi Y, Suñé-Negre JM, Hernández-Munain C, Suñé C. Targeting Splicing in the Treatment of Human Disease. Genes (Basel) 2017; 8:genes8030087. [PMID: 28245575 PMCID: PMC5368691 DOI: 10.3390/genes8030087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2016] [Revised: 02/14/2017] [Accepted: 02/17/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The tightly regulated process of precursor messenger RNA (pre-mRNA) alternative splicing (AS) is a key mechanism in the regulation of gene expression. Defects in this regulatory process affect cellular functions and are the cause of many human diseases. Recent advances in our understanding of splicing regulation have led to the development of new tools for manipulating splicing for therapeutic purposes. Several tools, including antisense oligonucleotides and trans-splicing, have been developed to target and alter splicing to correct misregulated gene expression or to modulate transcript isoform levels. At present, deregulated AS is recognized as an important area for therapeutic intervention. Here, we summarize the major hallmarks of the splicing process, the clinical implications that arise from alterations in this process, and the current tools that can be used to deliver, target, and correct deficiencies of this key pre-mRNA processing event.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Suñé-Pou
- Department of Molecular Biology, Institute of Parasitology and Biomedicine "López Neyra" (IPBLN-CSIC), PTS, Granada 18016, Spain.
- Drug Development Service, Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Barcelona, Avda. Joan XXIII, s/n 08028 Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Silvia Prieto-Sánchez
- Department of Molecular Biology, Institute of Parasitology and Biomedicine "López Neyra" (IPBLN-CSIC), PTS, Granada 18016, Spain.
| | - Sofía Boyero-Corral
- Department of Molecular Biology, Institute of Parasitology and Biomedicine "López Neyra" (IPBLN-CSIC), PTS, Granada 18016, Spain.
| | - Cristina Moreno-Castro
- Department of Molecular Biology, Institute of Parasitology and Biomedicine "López Neyra" (IPBLN-CSIC), PTS, Granada 18016, Spain.
| | - Younes El Yousfi
- Department of Molecular Biology, Institute of Parasitology and Biomedicine "López Neyra" (IPBLN-CSIC), PTS, Granada 18016, Spain.
| | - Josep Mª Suñé-Negre
- Drug Development Service, Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Barcelona, Avda. Joan XXIII, s/n 08028 Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Cristina Hernández-Munain
- Department of Cell Biology and Immunology, Institute of Parasitology and Biomedicine "López Neyra" (IPBLN-CSIC), PTS, Granada 18016, Spain.
| | - Carlos Suñé
- Department of Molecular Biology, Institute of Parasitology and Biomedicine "López Neyra" (IPBLN-CSIC), PTS, Granada 18016, Spain.
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9
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Bornert O, Peking P, Bremer J, Koller U, van den Akker PC, Aartsma-Rus A, Pasmooij AMG, Murauer EM, Nyström A. RNA-based therapies for genodermatoses. Exp Dermatol 2017; 26:3-10. [PMID: 27376675 PMCID: PMC5593095 DOI: 10.1111/exd.13141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Genetic disorders affecting the skin, genodermatoses, constitute a large and heterogeneous group of diseases, for which treatment is generally limited to management of symptoms. RNA-based therapies are emerging as a powerful tool to treat genodermatoses. In this review, we discuss in detail RNA splicing modulation by antisense oligonucleotides and RNA trans-splicing, transcript replacement and genome editing by in vitro-transcribed mRNAs, and gene knockdown by small interfering RNA and antisense oligonucleotides. We present the current state of these therapeutic approaches and critically discuss their opportunities, limitations and the challenges that remain to be solved. The aim of this review was to set the stage for the development of new and better therapies to improve the lives of patients and families affected by a genodermatosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivier Bornert
- Department of Dermatology, Medical Center – University of
Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Patricia Peking
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of
Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus
Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Jeroen Bremer
- Department of Dermatology, University Medical Center Groningen,
University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Ulrich Koller
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of
Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus
Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Peter C. van den Akker
- Department of Dermatology, University Medical Center Groningen,
University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Department of Genetics, University Medical Center Groningen,
University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Annemieke Aartsma-Rus
- Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center,
Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Anna M. G. Pasmooij
- Department of Dermatology, University Medical Center Groningen,
University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Eva M. Murauer
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of
Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus
Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Alexander Nyström
- Department of Dermatology, Medical Center – University of
Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
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Designing Efficient Double RNA trans-Splicing Molecules for Targeted RNA Repair. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:ijms17101609. [PMID: 27669223 PMCID: PMC5085642 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17101609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2016] [Revised: 08/24/2016] [Accepted: 09/14/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA trans-splicing is a promising tool for mRNA modification in a diversity of genetic disorders. In particular, the substitution of internal exons of a gene by combining 3' and 5' RNA trans-splicing seems to be an elegant way to modify especially large pre-mRNAs. Here we discuss a robust method for designing double RNA trans-splicing molecules (dRTM). We demonstrate how the technique can be implemented in an endogenous setting, using COL7A1, the gene encoding type VII collagen, as a target. An RTM screening system was developed with the aim of testing the replacement of two internal COL7A1 exons, harbouring a homozygous mutation, with the wild-type version. The most efficient RTMs from a pool of randomly generated variants were selected via our fluorescence-based screening system and adapted for use in an in vitro disease model system. Transduction of type VII collagen-deficient keratinocytes with the selected dRTM led to accurate replacement of two internal COL7A1 exons resulting in a restored wild-type RNA sequence. This is the first study demonstrating specific exon replacement by double RNA trans-splicing within an endogenous transcript in cultured cells, corroborating the utility of this technology for mRNA repair in a variety of genetic disorders.
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Construction and validation of an RNA trans-splicing molecule suitable to repair a large number of COL7A1 mutations. Gene Ther 2016; 23:775-784. [PMID: 27434145 PMCID: PMC5097067 DOI: 10.1038/gt.2016.57] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2016] [Revised: 06/22/2016] [Accepted: 07/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
RNA trans-splicing has become a versatile tool in the gene therapy of monogenetic diseases. This technique is especially valuable for the correction of mutations in large genes such as COL7A1, which underlie the dystrophic subtype of the skin blistering disease epidermolysis bullosa. Over 800 mutations spanning the entire length of the COL7A1 gene have been associated with defects in type VII collagen, leading to excessive fragility of epithelial tissues, the hallmark of dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (DEB). In the present study, we designed an RNA trans-splicing molecule (RTM) that is capable of repairing any given mutation within a 4200 nucleotide region spanning the 3′ half of COL7A1. The selected RTM, RTM28, was able to induce accurate trans-splicing into endogenous COL7A1 pre-mRNA transcripts in a type VII collagen-deficient DEB patient-derived cell line. Correct trans-splicing was detected at the RNA level by semiquantitative RT-PCR and correction of full-length type VII collagen was confirmed at the protein level by immunofluorescence and western blot analyses. Our results demonstrate that RTM28, which covers >60% of all mutations reported in DEB and is thus the longest RTM described so far for the repair of COL7A1, represents a promising candidate for therapeutic applications.
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12
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Progress toward Treatment and Cure of Epidermolysis Bullosa: Summary of the DEBRA International Research Symposium EB2015. J Invest Dermatol 2016; 136:352-358. [PMID: 26802230 PMCID: PMC4724642 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2015.10.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Epidermolysis bullosa (EB), a group of complex heritable blistering diseases, is the topic of triennial research meetings organized by DEBRA International, the umbrella of patient advocacy organizations. The DEBRA 2015 Research Conference, held in May 2015, brought together investigators and clinicians from around the world working at the forefront of EB research. Discussing the state-of-the-art approaches from a wide range of disciplines, there was a palpable excitement at this conference brought about by the optimism about applying new sequencing techniques, genome editing, protein replacement, autologous and allogeneic stem cell therapy, innovations in cancer biology, revertant mosaicism and iPSC techniques, all of which are aimed at developing new therapies for EB. Many in the field who have participated in EB research for many years were especially enthusiastic and felt that, possibly for the first time, the field seems uniquely poised to bring these new tools to effectively tackle EB using multiple complementary approaches towards improved quality of life and eventually a cure for patients suffering from EB, a currently intractable disease.
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13
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A Gene Gun-mediated Nonviral RNA trans-splicing Strategy for Col7a1 Repair. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2016; 5:e287. [PMID: 26928235 DOI: 10.1038/mtna.2016.3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2015] [Accepted: 01/07/2016] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
RNA trans-splicing represents an auspicious option for the correction of genetic mutations at RNA level. Mutations within COL7A1 causing strong reduction or absence of type VII collagen are associated with the severe skin blistering disease dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa. The human COL7A1 mRNA constitutes a suitable target for this RNA therapy approach, as only a portion of the almost 9 kb transcript has to be delivered into the target cells. Here, we have proven the feasibility of 5' trans-splicing into the Col7a1 mRNA in vitro and in vivo. We designed a 5' RNA trans-splicing molecule, capable of replacing Col7a1 exons 1-15 and verified it in a fluorescence-based trans-splicing model system. Specific and efficient Col7a1 trans-splicing was confirmed in murine keratinocytes. To analyze trans-splicing in vivo, we used gene gun delivery of a minicircle expressing a FLAG-tagged 5' RNA trans-splicing molecule into the skin of wild-type mice. Histological and immunofluorescence analysis of bombarded skin sections revealed vector delivery and expression within dermis and epidermis. Furthermore, we have detected trans-spliced type VII collagen protein using FLAG-tag antibodies. In conclusion, we describe a novel in vivo nonviral RNA therapy approach to restore type VII collagen expression for causative treatment of dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa.
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Can we be SMaRT-er in our approach to cancer therapy? EBioMedicine 2015; 2:621-2. [PMID: 26288827 PMCID: PMC4534698 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2015.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2015] [Accepted: 06/02/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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