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Prasher P, Sharma M, Agarwal V, Singh SK, Gupta G, Dureja H, Dua K. Cationic cycloamylose based nucleic acid nanocarriers. Chem Biol Interact 2024; 395:111000. [PMID: 38614318 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2024.111000] [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: 12/09/2023] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024]
Abstract
Nucleic acid delivery by viral and non-viral methods has been a cornerstone for the contemporary gene therapy aimed at correcting the defective genes, replacing of the missing genes, or downregulating the expression of anomalous genes is highly desirable for the management of various diseases. Ostensibly, it becomes paramount for the delivery vectors to intersect the biological barriers for accessing their destined site within the cellular environment. However, the lipophilic nature of biological membranes and their potential to limit the entry of large sized, charged, hydrophilic molecules thus presenting a sizeable challenge for the cellular integration of negatively charged nucleic acids. Furthermore, the susceptibility of nucleic acids towards the degrading enzymes (nucleases) in the lysosomes present in cytoplasm is another matter of concern for their cellular and nuclear delivery. Hence, there is a pressing need for the identification and development of cationic delivery systems which encapsulate the cargo nucleic acids where the charge facilitates their cellular entry by evading the membrane barriers, and the encapsulation shields them from the enzymatic attack in cytoplasm. Cycloamylose bearing a closed loop conformation presents a robust candidature in this regard owing to its remarkable encapsulating tendency towards nucleic acids including siRNA, CpG DNA, and siRNA. The presence of numerous hydroxyl groups on the cycloamylose periphery provides sites for its chemical modification for the introduction of cationic groups, including spermine, (3-Chloro-2 hydroxypropyl) trimethylammonium chloride (Q188), and diethyl aminoethane (DEAE). The resulting cationic cycloamylose possesses a remarkable transfection efficiency and provides stability to cargo oligonucleotides against endonucleases, in addition to modulating the undesirable side effects such as unwanted immune stimulation. Cycloamylose is known to interact with the cell membranes where they release certain membrane components such as phospholipids and cholesterol thereby resulting in membrane destabilization and permeabilization. Furthermore, cycloamylose derivatives also serve as formulation excipients for improving the efficiency of other gene delivery systems. This review delves into the various vector and non-vector-based gene delivery systems, their advantages, and limitations, eventually leading to the identification of cycloamylose as an ideal candidate for nucleic acid delivery. The synthesis of cationic cycloamylose is briefly discussed in each section followed by its application for specific delivery/transfection of a particular nucleic acid.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parteek Prasher
- Department of Chemistry, University of Petroleum & Energy Studies, Energy Acres, Dehradun, 248007, India.
| | - Mousmee Sharma
- Department of Chemistry, Uttaranchal University, Dehradun, 248007, India
| | - Vipul Agarwal
- Cluster for Advanced Macromolecular Design (CAMD), School of Chemical Engineering, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Sachin Kumar Singh
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, 144411, India; Faculty of Health, Australian Research Center in Complementary and Integrative Medicine, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, 2007, Australia; School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, 47500 Sunway City, Malaysia
| | - Gaurav Gupta
- School of Pharmacy, Graphic Era Hill University, Dehradun, 248007, India; Centre of Medical and Bio-allied Health Sciences Research, Ajman University, Ajman 346, United Arab Emirates
| | - Harish Dureja
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Maharishi Dayanand University, Rohtak, 124001, India
| | - Kamal Dua
- Faculty of Health, Australian Research Center in Complementary and Integrative Medicine, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, 2007, Australia; Discipline of Pharmacy, Graduate School of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, 2007, Australia.
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2
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Berzal-Herranz A, Romero-López C. Aptamers' Potential to Fill Therapeutic and Diagnostic Gaps. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:105. [PMID: 38256938 PMCID: PMC10818422 DOI: 10.3390/ph17010105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
More than 30 years ago, in 1990, three independent research groups published several papers demonstrating that genetics could be performed in vitro in the absence of living organisms or cells [...].
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Affiliation(s)
- Alfredo Berzal-Herranz
- Instituto de Parasitología y Biomedicina López-Neyra, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas. PTS Granada, Av. del Conocimiento 17, 18016 Granada, Spain
| | - Cristina Romero-López
- Instituto de Parasitología y Biomedicina López-Neyra, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas. PTS Granada, Av. del Conocimiento 17, 18016 Granada, Spain
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3
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Shraim AS, Abdel Majeed BA, Al-Binni M, Hunaiti A. Therapeutic Potential of Aptamer-Protein Interactions. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2022; 5:1211-1227. [PMID: 36524009 PMCID: PMC9745894 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.2c00156] [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: 07/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Aptamers are single-stranded oligonucleotides (RNA or DNA) with a typical length between 25 and 100 nucleotides which fold into three-dimensional structures capable of binding to target molecules. Specific aptamers can be isolated against a large variety of targets through efficient and relatively cheap methods, and they demonstrate target-binding affinities that sometimes surpass those of antibodies. Consequently, interest in aptamers has surged over the past three decades, and their application has shown promise in advancing knowledge in target analysis, designing therapeutic interventions, and bioengineering. With emphasis on their therapeutic applications, aptamers are emerging as a new innovative class of therapeutic agents with promising biochemical and biological properties. Aptamers have the potential of providing a feasible alternative to antibody- and small-molecule-based therapeutics given their binding specificity, stability, low toxicity, and apparent non-immunogenicity. This Review examines the general properties of aptamers and aptamer-protein interactions that help to understand their binding characteristics and make them important therapeutic candidates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ala’a S. Shraim
- Department
of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Al-Ahliyya Amman University, 19328 Amman, Jordan
- Pharmacological
and Diagnostic Research Center (PDRC), Al-Ahliyya
Amman University, 19328 Amman, Jordan
| | - Bayan A. Abdel Majeed
- Department
of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Al-Ahliyya Amman University, 19328 Amman, Jordan
- Pharmacological
and Diagnostic Research Center (PDRC), Al-Ahliyya
Amman University, 19328 Amman, Jordan
| | - Maysaa’
Adnan Al-Binni
- Department
of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, School of Science, The University of Jordan, 11942 Amman, Jordan
| | - Abdelrahim Hunaiti
- Department
of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, School of Science, The University of Jordan, 11942 Amman, Jordan
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Aptamer-based enzyme-linked oligonucleotide assay for specific detection of clinical bacterial strains isolated from cerebrospinal fluid samples. J Biosci Bioeng 2022; 134:441-449. [PMID: 36109302 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiosc.2022.07.009] [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: 04/24/2022] [Revised: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Meningitis, acute infection of the meninges, is the 10th leading cause of mortality among infectious diseases. Although many different causes for meningitis (viruses and bacteria) have been diagnosed, the most common ones are Neisseria meningitidis, Haemophilus influenzae, and Streptococcus pneumoniae. The effort to find a new method for detection of bacterial meningitis is an urgent need for clinical treatment. DNA aptamers generated by cell-systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment (SELEX) against bacterial cells provide a novel cell labeling and biosensing technique. Here, we isolated single-stranded DNA aptamers during the SELEX method with a high affinity for different bacterial genera. This approach was demonstrated on H. influenzae type B, N. meningitidis serogroups A, B, C, and Y, and Streptococcus pneumoniae serotypes 18, 14, 19A, 6A, and 6B which served as targets in 20 rounds of cell-SELEX. After 20 rounds of SELEX, a total of 93 aptamers were identified. Among these, aptamers C65 and C50 showed the highest affinity toward targets with a dissociation constant of 6.98 and 15.79, respectively. Selected aptamers were able to successfully detect clinical bacterial strains isolated from cerebrospinal fluid samples of meningitis patients by double-aptamer sandwich enzyme-linked oligonucleotide assay (ELONA). Our findings demonstrated that aptamers with broad affinity to bacterial taxa in different genera can be isolated for the development of diagnostic tools for multiple targets. We further showed that sandwich ELONA based on single-stranded DNA aptamer is sensitive and specific enough for detection of the superior cause of bacterial meningitis.
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Panda K, Alagarasu K, Parashar D. Oligonucleotide-Based Approaches to Inhibit Dengue Virus Replication. Molecules 2021; 26:956. [PMID: 33670247 PMCID: PMC7918374 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26040956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Revised: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Dengue fever is one of the most common viral infections affecting humans. It is an expanding public health problem, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. No effective vaccine or antiviral therapies against Dengue virus (DENV) infection are available. Therefore, there is a strong need to develop safe and effective therapeutic strategies that can reduce the burden and duration of hospitalizations due to this life-threatening disease. Oligonucleotide-based strategies are considered as an attractive means of inhibiting viral replication since oligonucleotides can be designed to interact with any viral RNA, provided its sequence is known. The resultant targeted destruction of viral RNA interferes with viral replication without inducing any adverse effects on cellular processes. In this review, we elaborate the ribozymes, RNA interference, CRISPR, aptamer and morpholino strategies for the inhibition of DENV replication and discuss the challenges involved in utilizing such approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kingshuk Panda
- Dengue & Chikungunya Group, ICMR-National Institute of Virology, 20-A, Dr. Ambedkar Road, Pune 411001, India
| | - Kalichamy Alagarasu
- Dengue & Chikungunya Group, ICMR-National Institute of Virology, 20-A, Dr. Ambedkar Road, Pune 411001, India
| | - Deepti Parashar
- Dengue & Chikungunya Group, ICMR-National Institute of Virology, 20-A, Dr. Ambedkar Road, Pune 411001, India
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Xu C, Gao L, Li J, Shen L, Liang H, Luan K, Wu X. Prediction of RNA secondary structure based on stem region replacement using the RSRNA algorithm. Comput Methods Biomech Biomed Engin 2020; 24:101-114. [PMID: 32901523 DOI: 10.1080/10255842.2020.1813280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
RNA functions, including the regulation of various cellular activities, seem to be closely related to its structure. However, accurately predicting RNA secondary structures can be difficult. Structural prediction can be achieved by selecting stem areas that are suitable and compatible from stem pools. Here, we propose a method for predicting the secondary structure of non-coding RNA based on stem region substitution, which we named RSRNA. This method is compatible with nested RNA secondary structures, while reducing any randomness. Our algorithm had higher performance and prediction accuracy than other algorithms, which deems it more effective for future RNA structure studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengzhen Xu
- School of Computer Science and Technology, Huaibei Normal University, Huaibei, China.,College of Life Sciences, Huaibei Normal University, Huaibei, China
| | - Longjian Gao
- School of Computer Science and Technology, Huaibei Normal University, Huaibei, China
| | - Jin Li
- College of Automation, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin, China
| | - Longfeng Shen
- School of Computer Science and Technology, Huaibei Normal University, Huaibei, China
| | - Hong Liang
- College of Automation, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin, China
| | - Kuan Luan
- College of Automation, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin, China
| | - Xiaomin Wu
- College of Life Sciences, Huaibei Normal University, Huaibei, China
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Two Examples of RNA Aptamers with Antiviral Activity. Are Aptamers the Wished Antiviral Drugs? Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2020; 13:ph13080157. [PMID: 32707768 PMCID: PMC7463695 DOI: 10.3390/ph13080157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Revised: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The current Covid-19 pandemic has pointed out some major deficiencies of the even most advanced societies to fight against viral RNA infections. Once more, it has been demonstrated that there is a lack of efficient drugs to control RNA viruses. Aptamers are efficient ligands of a great variety of molecules including proteins and nucleic acids. Their specificity and mechanism of action make them very promising molecules for interfering with the function encoded in viral RNA genomes. RNA viruses store essential information in conserved structural genomic RNA elements that promote important steps for the consecution of the infective cycle. This work describes two well documented examples of RNA aptamers with antiviral activity against highly conserved structural domains of the HIV-1 and HCV RNA genome, respectively, performed in our laboratory. They are two good examples that illustrate the potential of the aptamers to fill the therapeutic gaps in the fight against RNA viruses.
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Mashayekhi K, Ganji A, Sankian M. Designing a new dimerized anti human TNF-α aptamer with blocking activity. Biotechnol Prog 2020; 36:e2969. [PMID: 31989789 DOI: 10.1002/btpr.2969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2019] [Revised: 01/16/2020] [Accepted: 01/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The human tumor necrosis factor α (hTNF-α) is an important pro-inflammatory cytokine which plays critical roles in inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The anti-TNF-α proteins can reduce symptoms of RA. Due to limitations of protein-based therapies, it is necessary to find new anti-TNF-α agents instead of common anti-TNF-α proteins. Therefore, the aim of the current study was to identify a new DNA aptamer with anti-hTNF-α activity. The protein systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment (SELEX) process was used for identifying DNA aptamers. Anti-hTNF-α aptamers were selected using dot blot, real-time PCR, and in vitro inhibitory assay. The selected aptamers were truncated in two steps, and finally, a dimer aptamer was constructed from different selected truncates to improve their inhibitory effect. Also, Etanercept was used as a positive control to inhibit TNF-α, in comparison to the designed aptamers. After 11 rounds, four aptamers with anti-hTNF-α inhibitory effect were identified. The truncation and dimerization strategy revealed a new dimer aptamer with 67 nM Kd , which has 40% inhibitory effect compared with Etanercept (60%). Overall, the dimerization and truncation aptamers could improve its activity. With regard to the several limitations of anti-TNF-α proteins therapies including immunogenicity, side effects, and cost-intensive, a new designed anti-hTNF-α dimer aptamer could be considered as a potential therapeutic and/or diagnostic agent for hTNF-α-related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazem Mashayekhi
- Immuno-Biochemistry Lab, Immunology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Ali Ganji
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, Molecular and Medicine Research Center, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
| | - Mojtaba Sankian
- Immuno-Biochemistry Lab, Immunology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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Berzal-Herranz A, Romero-López C, Berzal-Herranz B, Ramos-Lorente S. Potential of the Other Genetic Information Coded by the Viral RNA Genomes as Antiviral Target. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2019; 12:ph12010038. [PMID: 30871174 PMCID: PMC6469156 DOI: 10.3390/ph12010038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2019] [Revised: 03/07/2019] [Accepted: 03/10/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
In addition to the protein coding information, viral RNA genomes code functional information in structurally conserved units termed functional RNA domains. These RNA domains play essential roles in the viral cycle (e.g., replication and translation). Understanding the molecular mechanisms behind their function is essential to understanding the viral infective cycle. Further, interfering with the function of the genomic RNA domains offers a potential means of developing antiviral strategies. Aptamers are good candidates for targeting structural RNA domains. Besides its potential as therapeutics, aptamers also provide an excellent tool for investigating the functionality of RNA domains in viral genomes. This review briefly summarizes the work carried out in our laboratory aimed at the structural and functional characterization of the hepatitis C virus (HCV) genomic RNA domains. It also describes the efforts we carried out for the development of antiviral aptamers targeting specific genomic domains of the HCV and the human immunodeficiency virus type-1 (HIV-1).
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Affiliation(s)
- Alfredo Berzal-Herranz
- Instituto de Parasitología y Biomedicina López-Neyra, (IPBLN-CSIC); Av. del Conocimiento 17, PTS Granada, Armilla, 18016 Granada, Spain.
| | - Cristina Romero-López
- Instituto de Parasitología y Biomedicina López-Neyra, (IPBLN-CSIC); Av. del Conocimiento 17, PTS Granada, Armilla, 18016 Granada, Spain.
| | - Beatriz Berzal-Herranz
- Instituto de Parasitología y Biomedicina López-Neyra, (IPBLN-CSIC); Av. del Conocimiento 17, PTS Granada, Armilla, 18016 Granada, Spain.
| | - Sara Ramos-Lorente
- Instituto de Parasitología y Biomedicina López-Neyra, (IPBLN-CSIC); Av. del Conocimiento 17, PTS Granada, Armilla, 18016 Granada, Spain.
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10
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Fernández G, Moraga A, Cuartero MI, García-Culebras A, Peña-Martínez C, Pradillo JM, Hernández-Jiménez M, Sacristán S, Ayuso MI, Gonzalo-Gobernado R, Fernández-López D, Martín ME, Moro MA, González VM, Lizasoain I. TLR4-Binding DNA Aptamers Show a Protective Effect against Acute Stroke in Animal Models. Mol Ther 2018; 26:2047-2059. [PMID: 29910175 PMCID: PMC6094477 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2018.05.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2016] [Revised: 05/18/2018] [Accepted: 05/21/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Since Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) mediates brain damage after stroke, development of TLR4 antagonists is a promising therapeutic strategy for this disease. Our aim was to generate TLR4-blocking DNA aptamers to be used for stroke treatment. From a random oligonucleotide pool, we identified two aptamers (ApTLR#1R, ApTLR#4F) with high affinity for human TLR4 by systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment (SELEX). Optimized truncated forms (ApTLR#1RT, ApTLR#4FT) were obtained. Our data demonstrate specific binding of both aptamers to human TLR4 as well as a TLR4 antagonistic effect. ApTLR#4F and ApTLR#4FT showed a long-lasting protective effect against brain injury induced by middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO), an effect that was absent in TLR4-deficient mice. Similar effects were obtained in other MCAO models, including in rat. Additionally, efficacy of ApTLR#4FT in a model of brain ischemia-reperfusion in rat supports the use of this aptamer in patients undergoing artery recanalization induced by pharmacological or mechanical interventions. The absence of major toxicology aspects and the good safety profile of the aptamers further encourage their future clinical positioning for stroke therapy and possibly other diseases in which TLR4 plays a deleterious role.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ana Moraga
- Unidad de Investigación Neurovascular, Departamento de Farmacología y Toxicología, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Neuroquímica, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Hospital 12 de Octubre (i+12), 28041 Madrid, Spain
| | - María I Cuartero
- Unidad de Investigación Neurovascular, Departamento de Farmacología y Toxicología, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Neuroquímica, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Hospital 12 de Octubre (i+12), 28041 Madrid, Spain
| | - Alicia García-Culebras
- Unidad de Investigación Neurovascular, Departamento de Farmacología y Toxicología, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Neuroquímica, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Hospital 12 de Octubre (i+12), 28041 Madrid, Spain
| | - Carolina Peña-Martínez
- Unidad de Investigación Neurovascular, Departamento de Farmacología y Toxicología, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Neuroquímica, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Hospital 12 de Octubre (i+12), 28041 Madrid, Spain
| | - Jesús M Pradillo
- Unidad de Investigación Neurovascular, Departamento de Farmacología y Toxicología, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Neuroquímica, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Hospital 12 de Octubre (i+12), 28041 Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Silvia Sacristán
- Laboratorio de Aptámeros, Departamento de Bioquímica-Investigación, IRYCIS-Hospital Ramón y Cajal, 28034 Madrid, Spain
| | - M Irene Ayuso
- Grupo de Investigación Neurovascular, Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla, IBiS/Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío/CSIC/Universidad de Sevilla, Avda. Manuel Siurot s/n, 41013 Sevilla, Spain
| | - Rafael Gonzalo-Gobernado
- Grupo de Investigación Neurovascular, Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla, IBiS/Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío/CSIC/Universidad de Sevilla, Avda. Manuel Siurot s/n, 41013 Sevilla, Spain
| | - David Fernández-López
- Unidad de Investigación Neurovascular, Departamento de Farmacología y Toxicología, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Neuroquímica, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Hospital 12 de Octubre (i+12), 28041 Madrid, Spain
| | - M Elena Martín
- Laboratorio de Aptámeros, Departamento de Bioquímica-Investigación, IRYCIS-Hospital Ramón y Cajal, 28034 Madrid, Spain
| | - María A Moro
- Unidad de Investigación Neurovascular, Departamento de Farmacología y Toxicología, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Neuroquímica, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Hospital 12 de Octubre (i+12), 28041 Madrid, Spain
| | - Victor M González
- Laboratorio de Aptámeros, Departamento de Bioquímica-Investigación, IRYCIS-Hospital Ramón y Cajal, 28034 Madrid, Spain.
| | - Ignacio Lizasoain
- Unidad de Investigación Neurovascular, Departamento de Farmacología y Toxicología, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Neuroquímica, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Hospital 12 de Octubre (i+12), 28041 Madrid, Spain.
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11
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Romero-López C, Berzal-Herranz A. Aptamers: Biomedical Interest and Applications. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2017; 10:ph10010032. [PMID: 28300769 PMCID: PMC5374436 DOI: 10.3390/ph10010032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2017] [Accepted: 03/14/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Aptamers are short DNA or RNA oligonucleotides specialized in the specific and efficient binding to a target molecule. They are obtained by in vitro selection or evolution processes. It was in 1990 that two independent research groups described the bases of a new in vitro technology for the identification of RNA molecules able to specifically bind to a target [1,2]. Tuerk and Gold established the principals of the in vitro selection process that was named SELEX (Systematic Evolution of Ligands by Exponential enrichment), which is based on iterative cycles of binding, partitioning, and amplification of oligonucleotides from a pool of variant sequences [2]. Ellington and Szostak coined the term aptamer to define the selected molecules by the application of this method [1]. To date, numerous reports have described the isolation of aptamers directed against a great variety of targets covering a wide diversity of molecules varying in nature, size, and complexity ranging from ions to whole cells, including small molecules (e.g., aminoacids, nucleotides, antibiotics), peptides, proteins, nucleic acids, and viruses, among others (for example, see [3-6]). Modifications and optimization of the SELEX procedure aimed to get newly modified aptamers has also attracted much interest (examples can be found in [7,8]). These advances along with the parallel progresses in the nucleic acids chemistry and cellular delivery fields have allowed for the rise of a new hope in developing aptamers as efficient molecular tools for diagnostics and therapeutics (for recent comprehensive reviews, see [9-11]).
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Romero-López
- Instituto de Parasitología y Biomedicina "López-Neyra", (IPBLN-CSIC), 18016 Armilla, Granada, Spain.
| | - Alfredo Berzal-Herranz
- Instituto de Parasitología y Biomedicina "López-Neyra", (IPBLN-CSIC), 18016 Armilla, Granada, Spain.
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12
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González VM, Martín ME, Fernández G, García-Sacristán A. Use of Aptamers as Diagnostics Tools and Antiviral Agents for Human Viruses. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2016; 9:ph9040078. [PMID: 27999271 PMCID: PMC5198053 DOI: 10.3390/ph9040078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2016] [Revised: 12/12/2016] [Accepted: 12/13/2016] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Appropriate diagnosis is the key factor for treatment of viral diseases. Time is the most important factor in rapidly developing and epidemiologically dangerous diseases, such as influenza, Ebola and SARS. Chronic viral diseases such as HIV-1 or HCV are asymptomatic or oligosymptomatic and the therapeutic success mainly depends on early detection of the infective agent. Over the last years, aptamer technology has been used in a wide range of diagnostic and therapeutic applications and, concretely, several strategies are currently being explored using aptamers against virus proteins. From a diagnostics point of view, aptamers are being designed as a bio-recognition element in diagnostic systems to detect viral proteins either in the blood (serum or plasma) or into infected cells. Another potential use of aptamers is for therapeutics of viral infections, interfering in the interaction between the virus and the host using aptamers targeting host-cell matrix receptors, or attacking the virus intracellularly, targeting proteins implicated in the viral replication cycle. In this paper, we review how aptamers working against viral proteins are discovered, with a focus on recent advances that improve the aptamers' properties as a real tool for viral infection detection and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Víctor M González
- Departamento de Bioquímica-Investigación, Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS)-Hospital Ramón y Cajal, 28034 Madrid, Spain.
| | - M Elena Martín
- Departamento de Bioquímica-Investigación, Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS)-Hospital Ramón y Cajal, 28034 Madrid, Spain.
| | - Gerónimo Fernández
- Aptus Biotech SL, c/Faraday, 7, Parque Científico de Madrid, Campus de Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain.
| | - Ana García-Sacristán
- Aptus Biotech SL, c/Faraday, 7, Parque Científico de Madrid, Campus de Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain.
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13
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Marton S, Cleto F, Krieger MA, Cardoso J. Isolation of an Aptamer that Binds Specifically to E. coli. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0153637. [PMID: 27104834 PMCID: PMC4841571 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0153637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2015] [Accepted: 04/01/2016] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Escherichia coli is a bacterial species found ubiquitously in the intestinal flora of animals, although pathogenic variants cause major public health problems. Aptamers are short oligonucleotides that bind to targets with high affinity and specificity, and have great potential for use in diagnostics and therapy. We used cell-based Systematic Evolution of Ligands by EXponential enrichment (cell-SELEX) to isolate four single stranded DNA (ssDNA) aptamers that bind strongly to E. coli cells (ATCC generic strain 25922), with Kd values in the nanomolar range. Fluorescently labeled aptamers label the surface of E. coli cells, as viewed by fluorescent microscopy. Specificity tests with twelve different bacterial species showed that one of the aptamers–called P12-31—is highly specific for E. coli. Importantly, this aptamer binds to Meningitis/sepsis associated E. coli (MNEC) clinical isolates, and is the first aptamer described with potential for use in the diagnosis of MNEC-borne pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soledad Marton
- Instituto de Biologia Molecular do Paraná, Department of Research and Development, 3375 Professor Algacyr Munhoz Mader Street, Curitiba, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Cleto
- Instituto de Biologia Molecular do Paraná, Department of Research and Development, 3375 Professor Algacyr Munhoz Mader Street, Curitiba, Brazil
| | - Marco Aurélio Krieger
- Instituto de Biologia Molecular do Paraná, Department of Research and Development, 3375 Professor Algacyr Munhoz Mader Street, Curitiba, Brazil.,Instituto Carlos Chagas, Laboratório de Genomica Functional, 3375 Professor Algacyr Munhoz Mader Street, Curitiba, Brazil
| | - Josiane Cardoso
- Instituto de Biologia Molecular do Paraná, Department of Research and Development, 3375 Professor Algacyr Munhoz Mader Street, Curitiba, Brazil
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14
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RNA Aptamers as Molecular Tools to Study the Functionality of the Hepatitis C Virus CRE Region. Molecules 2015; 20:16030-47. [PMID: 26364632 PMCID: PMC6331917 DOI: 10.3390/molecules200916030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2015] [Revised: 08/25/2015] [Accepted: 08/29/2015] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Hepatitis C virus (HCV) contains a (+) ssRNA genome with highly conserved structural, functional RNA domains, many of them with unknown roles for the consecution of the viral cycle. Such genomic domains are candidate therapeutic targets. This study reports the functional characterization of a set of aptamers targeting the cis-acting replication element (CRE) of the HCV genome, an essential partner for viral replication and also involved in the regulation of protein synthesis. Methods: Forty-four aptamers were tested for their ability to interfere with viral RNA synthesis in a subgenomic replicon system. Some of the most efficient inhibitors were further evaluated for their potential to affect the recruitment of the HCV RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (NS5B) and the viral translation in cell culture. Results: Four aptamers emerged as potent inhibitors of HCV replication by direct interaction with functional RNA domains of the CRE, yielding a decrease in the HCV RNA levels higher than 90%. Concomitantly, one of them also induced a significant increase in viral translation (>50%). The three remaining aptamers efficiently competed with the binding of the NS5B protein to the CRE. Conclusions: Present findings confirm the potential of the CRE as an anti-HCV target and support the use of aptamers as molecular tools for investigating the functionality of RNA domains in viral genomes.
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15
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Kun Á, Szathmáry E. Fitness Landscapes of Functional RNAs. Life (Basel) 2015; 5:1497-517. [PMID: 26308059 PMCID: PMC4598650 DOI: 10.3390/life5031497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2015] [Revised: 07/26/2015] [Accepted: 08/03/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The notion of fitness landscapes, a map between genotype and fitness, was proposed more than 80 years ago. For most of this time data was only available for a few alleles, and thus we had only a restricted view of the whole fitness landscape. Recently, advances in genetics and molecular biology allow a more detailed view of them. Here we review experimental and theoretical studies of fitness landscapes of functional RNAs, especially aptamers and ribozymes. We find that RNA structures can be divided into critical structures, connecting structures, neutral structures and forbidden structures. Such characterisation, coupled with theoretical sequence-to-structure predictions, allows us to construct the whole fitness landscape. Fitness landscapes then can be used to study evolution, and in our case the development of the RNA world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ádám Kun
- Parmenides Center for the Conceptual Foundations of Science, Kirchplatz 1, 82049 Munich/Pullach, Germany.
- MTA-ELTE-MTMT Ecology Research Group, Pázmány Péter sétány 1/C, 1117 Budapest, Hungary.
- Department of Plant Systematics, Ecology and Theoretical Biology, Institute of Biology, Eötvös University, Pázmány Péter sétány 1/C, 1117 Budapest, Hungary.
| | - Eörs Szathmáry
- Parmenides Center for the Conceptual Foundations of Science, Kirchplatz 1, 82049 Munich/Pullach, Germany.
- Department of Plant Systematics, Ecology and Theoretical Biology, Institute of Biology, Eötvös University, Pázmány Péter sétány 1/C, 1117 Budapest, Hungary.
- MTA-ELTE Theoretical Biology and Evolutionary Ecology Research Group, Pázmány Péter sétány 1/C, 1117 Budapest, Hungary.
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16
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Subramanian N, Kanwar JR, Kanwar RK, Sreemanthula J, Biswas J, Khetan V, Krishnakumar S. EpCAM Aptamer-siRNA Chimera Targets and Regress Epithelial Cancer. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0132407. [PMID: 26176230 PMCID: PMC4503753 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0132407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2014] [Accepted: 06/14/2015] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM), a cancer stem cell (CSC) marker is over expressed in epithelial cancers and in retinoblastoma (RB). We fabricated an EpCAM targeting aptamer-siRNA chimera and investigated its anti-tumor property and EpCAM intracellular domain (EpICD) mediated signaling in epithelial cancer. The anti-tumor efficacy of EpCAM aptamer-siEpCAM chimera (EpApt-siEp) was evaluated by qPCR, northern and Western blotting in WERI-Rb1- RB cell line, primary RB tumor cells and in MCF7- breast cancer cell line. Anti-tumor activity of EpApt-siEp was studied in vivo using epithelial cancer (MCF7) mice xenograft model. The mechanism and pathways involved in the anti-tumor activity was further studied using protein arrays and qPCR. EpApt-siEp chimera was processed in vitro by dicer enzyme. Treatment of the WERI-Rb1 and MCF7 cells with EpApt-siEp revealed statistically significant down regulation of EpCAM expression (P<0.005) and concomitant reduction in cellular proliferation. In primary RB cells cultured from RB tumors, EpApt-siEp silenced EpCAM, significantly inhibited (P<0.01) cell proliferation and induced cytotoxicity. Knockdown of EpICD expressed in RB primary tumors led to repression of pluripotency markers, SOX2, OCT4, NANOG, and CD133. In vivo studies showed complete tumor growth regression without any toxicity in animals (P<0.001) and tumor tissues showed significant downregulation (P<0.05) of EpCAM, MRP1, ABCG2, stathmin, survivin and upregulation of ATM (P<0.05) leading to apoptosis by intrinsic pathway with minor alteration in cytokines. Our results revealed that EpApt-siEp potentially eradicated EpCAM positive cancer cells through CSC marker suppression and apoptosis, while sparing normal EpCAM negative adjacent cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nithya Subramanian
- Department of Nanobiotechnology, Vision Research Foundation, Kamalnayan Bajaj Institute for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Chennai, India
- Nanomedicine-Laboratory of Immunology and Molecular Biomedical Research (NLIMBR), School of Medicine (SoM), Centre for Molecular and Medical Research (C-MMR), Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria-3217, Australia
| | - Jagat R. Kanwar
- Nanomedicine-Laboratory of Immunology and Molecular Biomedical Research (NLIMBR), School of Medicine (SoM), Centre for Molecular and Medical Research (C-MMR), Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria-3217, Australia
- * E-mail: (SK); (JK)
| | - Rupinder K. Kanwar
- Nanomedicine-Laboratory of Immunology and Molecular Biomedical Research (NLIMBR), School of Medicine (SoM), Centre for Molecular and Medical Research (C-MMR), Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria-3217, Australia
| | - JagadeeshBabu Sreemanthula
- L & T Ocular Pathology department, Vision Research Foundation, Kamalnayan Bajaj Institute for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Chennai, India
| | - Jyotirmay Biswas
- L & T Ocular Pathology department, Vision Research Foundation, Kamalnayan Bajaj Institute for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Chennai, India
| | - Vikas Khetan
- Department of Ocular Oncology and Vitreoretina, Medical Research Foundation, Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai, India
| | - Subramanian Krishnakumar
- Department of Nanobiotechnology, Vision Research Foundation, Kamalnayan Bajaj Institute for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Chennai, India
- L & T Ocular Pathology department, Vision Research Foundation, Kamalnayan Bajaj Institute for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Chennai, India
- * E-mail: (SK); (JK)
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17
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Sánchez-Luque FJ, Stich M, Manrubia S, Briones C, Berzal-Herranz A. Efficient HIV-1 inhibition by a 16 nt-long RNA aptamer designed by combining in vitro selection and in silico optimisation strategies. Sci Rep 2014; 4:6242. [PMID: 25175101 PMCID: PMC4150108 DOI: 10.1038/srep06242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2014] [Accepted: 08/04/2014] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The human immunodeficiency virus type-1 (HIV-1) genome contains multiple, highly conserved structural RNA domains that play key roles in essential viral processes. Interference with the function of these RNA domains either by disrupting their structures or by blocking their interaction with viral or cellular factors may seriously compromise HIV-1 viability. RNA aptamers are amongst the most promising synthetic molecules able to interact with structural domains of viral genomes. However, aptamer shortening up to their minimal active domain is usually necessary for scaling up production, what requires very time-consuming, trial-and-error approaches. Here we report on the in vitro selection of 64 nt-long specific aptamers against the complete 5′-untranslated region of HIV-1 genome, which inhibit more than 75% of HIV-1 production in a human cell line. The analysis of the selected sequences and structures allowed for the identification of a highly conserved 16 nt-long stem-loop motif containing a common 8 nt-long apical loop. Based on this result, an in silico designed 16 nt-long RNA aptamer, termed RNApt16, was synthesized, with sequence 5′-CCCCGGCAAGGAGGGG-3′. The HIV-1 inhibition efficiency of such an aptamer was close to 85%, thus constituting the shortest RNA molecule so far described that efficiently interferes with HIV-1 replication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco J Sánchez-Luque
- 1] Department of Molecular Biology. Instituto de Parasitología y Biomedicina "López-Neyra" (IPBLN-CSIC), PTS Granada. Avda. del Conocimiento s/n, Armilla (Granada 18016, Spain) [2]
| | - Michael Stich
- 1] Department of Molecular Evolution. Centro de Astrobiología (CAB-CSIC/INTA). Carretera Torrejón a Ajalvir km 4, Torrejón de Ardoz (Madrid 28850, Spain) [2]
| | - Susanna Manrubia
- Department of Molecular Evolution. Centro de Astrobiología (CAB-CSIC/INTA). Carretera Torrejón a Ajalvir km 4, Torrejón de Ardoz (Madrid 28850, Spain)
| | - Carlos Briones
- 1] Department of Molecular Evolution. Centro de Astrobiología (CAB-CSIC/INTA). Carretera Torrejón a Ajalvir km 4, Torrejón de Ardoz (Madrid 28850, Spain) [2] Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de enfermedades hepáticas y digestivas (CIBERehd), Spain
| | - Alfredo Berzal-Herranz
- Department of Molecular Biology. Instituto de Parasitología y Biomedicina "López-Neyra" (IPBLN-CSIC), PTS Granada. Avda. del Conocimiento s/n, Armilla (Granada 18016, Spain)
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18
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Romero-López C, Berzal-Herranz A. Unmasking the information encoded as structural motifs of viral RNA genomes: a potential antiviral target. Rev Med Virol 2013; 23:340-54. [PMID: 23983005 PMCID: PMC7169113 DOI: 10.1002/rmv.1756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2013] [Revised: 07/23/2013] [Accepted: 07/24/2013] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
RNA viruses show enormous capacity to evolve and adapt to new cellular and molecular contexts, a consequence of mutations arising from errors made by viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase during replication. Sequence variation must occur, however, without compromising functions essential for the completion of the viral cycle. RNA viruses are safeguarded in this respect by their genome carrying conserved information that does not code only for proteins but also for the formation of structurally conserved RNA domains that directly perform these critical functions. Functional RNA domains can interact with other regions of the viral genome and/or proteins to direct viral translation, replication and encapsidation. They are therefore potential targets for novel therapeutic strategies. This review summarises our knowledge of the functional RNA domains of human RNA viruses and examines the achievements made in the design of antiviral compounds that interfere with their folding and therefore their function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Romero-López
- Instituto de Parasitología y Biomedicina 'López-Neyra', IPBLN-CSIC, PTS Granada, Armilla, Granada, Spain
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19
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Marton S, Romero-López C, Berzal-Herranz A. RNA aptamer-mediated interference of HCV replication by targeting the CRE-5BSL3.2 domain. J Viral Hepat 2013; 20:103-12. [PMID: 23301545 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2893.2012.01629.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The RNA genome of hepatitis C virus (HCV) contains multiple conserved structural RNA domains that play key roles in essential viral processes. A conserved structural component within the 3' end of the region coding for viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (NS5B) has been characterized as a functional cis-acting replication element (CRE). This study reports the ability of two RNA aptamers, P-58 and P-78, to interfere with HCV replication by targeting the essential 5BSL3.2 domain within this CRE. Structure-probing assays showed the binding of the aptamers to the CRE results in a structural reorganization of the apical portion of the 5BSL3.2 stem-loop domain. This interfered with the binding of the NS5B protein to the CRE and induced a significant reduction in HCV replication (≈50%) in an autonomous subgenomic HCV replication system. These results highlight the potential of this CRE as a target for the development of anti-HCV therapies and underscore the potential of antiviral agents based on RNA aptamer molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Marton
- Instituto de Parasitología y Biomedicina López-Neyra, IPBLN-CSIC, Parque Tecnológico de Ciencias de la Salud, Granada, Spain
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20
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Martín ME, García-Hernández M, García-Recio EM, Gómez-Chacón GF, Sánchez-López M, González VM. DNA aptamers selectively target Leishmania infantum H2A protein. PLoS One 2013; 8:e78886. [PMID: 24205340 PMCID: PMC3804487 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0078886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2013] [Accepted: 09/16/2013] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Parasites of the genus Leishmania produce leishmaniasis which affects millions people around the world. Understanding the molecular characteristics of the parasite can increase the knowledge about the mechanisms underlying disease development and progression. Thus, the study of the molecular features of histones has been considered of particular interest because Leishmania does not condense the chromatin during mitosis and, consequently, a different role for these proteins in the biology of the parasite can be expected. Furthermore, the sequence divergences in the amino and in the carboxy-terminal domains of the kinetoplastid core histones convert them in potential diagnostic and/or therapeutics targets. Aptamers are oligonucleotide ligands that are selected in vitro by their affinity and specificity for the target as a consequence of the particular tertiary structure that they are able to acquire depending on their sequence. Development of high-affinity molecules with the ability to recognize specifically Leishmania histones is essential for the progress of this kind of study. Two aptamers which specifically recognize Leishmania infantum H2A histone were cloned from a previously obtained ssDNA enriched population. These aptamers were sequenced and subjected to an in silico analysis. ELONA, slot blot and Western blot were performed to establish aptamer affinity and specificity for LiH2A histone and ELONA assays using peptides corresponding to overlapped sequences of LiH2A were made mapping the aptamers:LiH2A interaction. As "proofs of concept", aptamers were used to determine the number of parasites in an ELONA platform and to purify LiH2A from complex mixtures. The aptamers showed different secondary structures among them; however, both of them were able to recognize the same peptides located in a side of the protein. In addition, we demonstrate that these aptamers are useful for LiH2A identification and also may be of potential application as diagnostic system and as a laboratory tool with purification purpose.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Elena Martín
- Departamento de Bioquímica-Investigación, Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria, Hospital Ramón y Cajal, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Eva M. García-Recio
- Departamento de Bioquímica-Investigación, Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria, Hospital Ramón y Cajal, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | - Víctor M. González
- Departamento de Bioquímica-Investigación, Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria, Hospital Ramón y Cajal, Madrid, Spain
- * E-mail:
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21
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Marton S, Berzal-Herranz B, Garmendia E, Cueto FJ, Berzal-Herranz A. Anti-HCV RNA Aptamers Targeting the Genomic cis-Acting Replication Element. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2011; 5:49-60. [PMID: 24288042 PMCID: PMC3763624 DOI: 10.3390/ph5010049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2011] [Revised: 12/15/2011] [Accepted: 12/22/2011] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) replication is dependent on the existence of several highly conserved functional genomic RNA domains. The cis-acting replication element (CRE), located within the 3' end of the NS5B coding region of the HCV genome, has been shown essential for efficient viral replication. Its sequence and structural features determine its involvement in functional interactions with viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase and distant RNA domains of the viral genome. This work reports the use of an in vitro selection strategy to select aptamer RNA molecules against the complete HCV-CRE. After six selection cycles, five potential target sites were identified within this domain. Inhibition assays using a sample of representative aptamers showed that the selected RNAs significantly inhibit the replication (>80%) of a subgenomic HCV replicon in Huh-7 cell cultures. These results highlight the potential of aptamer RNA molecules as therapeutic antiviral agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soledad Marton
- Instituto de Parasitología y Biomedicina "López-Neyra", IPBLN-CSIC, P.T. Ciencias de la Salud, Av. del Conocimiento s/n, Armilla, 18100 Granada, Spain.
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22
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Pinheiro AV, Han D, Shih WM, Yan H. Challenges and opportunities for structural DNA nanotechnology. NATURE NANOTECHNOLOGY 2011; 6:763-72. [PMID: 22056726 PMCID: PMC3334823 DOI: 10.1038/nnano.2011.187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 909] [Impact Index Per Article: 69.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/14/2023]
Abstract
DNA molecules have been used to build a variety of nanoscale structures and devices over the past 30 years, and potential applications have begun to emerge. But the development of more advanced structures and applications will require a number of issues to be addressed, the most significant of which are the high cost of DNA and the high error rate of self-assembly. Here we examine the technical challenges in the field of structural DNA nanotechnology and outline some of the promising applications that could be developed if these hurdles can be overcome. In particular, we highlight the potential use of DNA nanostructures in molecular and cellular biophysics, as biomimetic systems, in energy transfer and photonics, and in diagnostics and therapeutics for human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andre V. Pinheiro
- Center for Single Molecule Biophysics, The Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287, USA
| | - Dongran Han
- Center for Single Molecule Biophysics, The Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287, USA
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287, USA
| | - William M. Shih
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
- Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts 02138, USA
| | - Hao Yan
- Center for Single Molecule Biophysics, The Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287, USA
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287, USA
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23
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Rodríguez-Cerdeira C, Cruces M, Taboada J. A quarter of a century with AIDS. Open AIDS J 2011; 5:1-8. [PMID: 21629502 PMCID: PMC3103892 DOI: 10.2174/1874613601105010001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2009] [Revised: 07/19/2010] [Accepted: 11/15/2010] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
In Northwestern Spain (NWS), the annual incidence of AIDS diagnoses increased from 1984 (when the first case was diagnosed) until 1996. However, since 1996, this incidence has reduced considerably, including a notable 40% reduction between 1997 and 1998. The Galician Register of AIDS supplies information on the evolution of AIDS pathology in NWS. This report compiles data on patients who were diagnosed with AIDS in NWS between 1984 and 2008. From 1981, when the first case of AIDS was described, until December 31, 2008, a total of 3,766 AIDS cases were registered in NWS. Of these, 2,085 cases (55.4%) resulted in death. Examining data from individual provinces revealed that the highest number of cases was in A Coruña (1,548 cases) followed by Pontevedra (1,485 cases).For almost half of the new cases of AIDS diagnosed between 2003 and 2008 (44%), less than six months passed between the diagnosis of infection and manifestations of the disease. Thus, the number of patients that do not receive early diagnosis of HIV infection has remained high.With regard to the transmission mechanism, 64% of the cases occurring during these years resulted from needle-sharing among injected drug users (IDUs). Unprotected heterosexual and homosexual practices were responsible for 20% and 17% of the cases, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - M.J Cruces
- Dirección Xeral de Saúde Pública, Xunta de Galicia, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - J.A Taboada
- Dirección Xeral de Saúde Pública, Xunta de Galicia, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
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