Current Gene Therapy - Online First

The increasing approval of nucleic acid therapeutics has led to a significant advancement in medicines, demonstrating their potential to revolutionize the prevention and treatment of numerous diseases. However, challenges like nuclease degradation and difficult cellular delivery hinder their use as therapeutic agents. The rising demand for precise gene therapy delivery has positioned nanobiosystems as a groundbreaking solution, with their customizable properties enabling targeted and efficient delivery. Nucleic Acid therapeutics, encompassing antisense DNA, mRNA, small interfering RNA (siRNA), and microRNA (miRNA), have been rigorously investigated for their capacity to modulate gene expression. Notably, integrating these gene therapies with nanoscale delivery platforms has significantly broadened their scope, facilitating sophisticated advancements in bioanalysis, gene silencing, protein replacement therapies, and the development of vaccines. This review provides a thorough review of recent advancements in nanobiosystems for therapeutic nucleic acid delivery. We explore the unique characteristics of various nanobiosystems, including gene therapy-based delivery, nanoparticles, stimuli-responsive systems, smart nanocarriers, and extracellular vesicle-based delivery. We offer a detailed overview of their applications in nucleic acid delivery. Furthermore, we address biological barriers and strategies for the therapeutic delivery of nucleic acids. Ultimately, this review provides critical insights into the strategic development of next-generation delivery vectors for nucleic acid therapeutics.

NGS (Next-generation sequencing) has emerged as the primary approach for gene finding in uncommon hereditary disorders. Targeted gene panels, whole genome sequencing (WGS), and whole exome sequencing (WES) are uses of next-generation sequencing and other related technologies. It is possible to explain personal or individual genome sequencing using NGS technology, as well as to detect disease-causing mutations using NGS findings. NGS, deep sequencing or massively parallel are similar words that describe a method of DNA sequencing leading to revolutionary change in genomic research. Due to its cost-effectiveness, Whole-Exome sequencing (WES) using Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) is becoming increasingly popular in the field of human genetics. As a diagnostic tool, this technology can reduce the duration of the diagnostic process for several patients and has mostly made a significant contribution to the identification of new genes responsible for causing diseases. Considering the diverse range of phenotypic presentations of the diagnosis, NGS has the potential to uncover causative mutations, including de novo, new, and familial variants, related to epileptic syndromes and significantly enhance molecular diagnosis. The present study centres on the potential applications of next-generation exome sequencing in clinical diagnostics and the challenges encountered in the data processing of such data.

The relentless pursuit of understanding and combating glioblastoma (GBM), one of the most formidable foes in the realm of cancer, requires a deeper exploration of its intricate dynamics. Gliomas, particularly GBM, are known for their lethal nature, and a significant aspect of their pathogenesis lies in their ability to manipulate the blood vessels that sustain them. This complex relationship is governed by a multitude of molecular mechanisms involving a diverse array of cell types within the tumor microenvironment. Central to this intricate web of regulation are non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), enigmatic molecules that have recently emerged as key players in cancer biology. These ncRNAs wield a remarkable influence on gene expression, often via epigenetic modifications and intricate control over angiogenesis-related molecules. Their role in GBM angiogenesis adds another layer of complexity to our understanding of this disease. In the realm of cancer therapeutics, targeting angiogenesis has become a prominent strategy. However, the efficacy of current anti-angiogenic treatments against GBM is often transient, as these tumors can rapidly develop resistance, becoming even more aggressive. GBM employs a diverse set of strategies to foster its abnormal vasculature, which, in turn, holds the key to understanding why anti-angiogenic therapies often fall short of expectations. This review aims to shed light on potential strategies and novel perspectives to overcome GBM 's resistance to anti-angiogenic therapy. By exploring innovative approaches, including those centered on ncRNAs, we strive to chart a course toward more effective treatments. This journey into the depths of GBM 's complexities offers not only hope but also a blueprint for future research and therapeutic development. As we uncover the intricate mechanisms at play, we inch closer to the day when GBM is no longer an insurmountable adversary in the fight against cancer.

MicroRNAs, commonly referred to as miRNAs, exert a significant impact on cellular processes by coordinating post-transcriptional gene regulation. These non-coding RNAs, which are only 22 nucleotides long, form a part of the RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC) and play a crucial role in regulating gene expression. Their complex participation in cell proliferation, differentiation, and death highlights their crucial role in maintaining cellular balance. MicroRNAs have become significant contributors in the complex field of cancer biology, operating beyond the usual tasks of cells. Their dysregulation is closely intertwined with cancer initiation and development. miRNAs act as cellular regulators and regulate complex processes of gene expression. Disruption of this regulation can result in tumor development. This review article explores the intricate process of miRNA biosynthesis and its mechanisms, providing insights into its complex interactions with cancer. It also discusses the exciting field of miRNA-based cancer treatment. Exploring the therapeutic possibilities of these small RNA molecules presents opportunities for precision medicine, introducing a new age where miRNAs can be utilized to create targeted therapeutic interventions that mainly address the abnormal genetic characteristics that cause tumor formation. miRNAs provide a harmonious balance between understanding their biology and utilizing their therapeutic potential in cancer treatment. However, they also serve as conductors and possible therapeutic instruments in the symphony of molecular biology for gene therapy.

The advent of CRISPR/Cas gene-editing technology has revolutionized molecular biology, offering unprecedented precision and potential in treating genetic disorders, cancers, and other complex diseases. However, for CRISPR/Cas to be truly effective in clinical settings, one of the most significant challenges lies in the delivery of the CRISPR components, including guide RNA (gRNA) and Cas protein, into specific cells or tissues. Safe, targeted, and efficient delivery remains a critical bottleneck. Viral vectors, lipid nanoparticles, and synthetic polymers have been explored, but they come with limitations, such as immunogenicity, toxicity, and limited delivery capacity. Polysaccharide-based delivery systems, with their natural origin, biocompatibility, and versatile chemical properties, offer a promising alternative that could address these delivery challenges while advancing the pharmaceutical applications of CRISPR/Cas gene therapy.

This article provides a detailed look at Parkinson's disease (PD), a neurodegenerative ailment mostly known for movement difficulties such tremor, stiffness, and bradykinesia, which affects approximately 1% of persons over the age of 60. Although the precise cause of PD is still unknown, various factors such as pesticide exposure, genetics, and lifestyle choices like smoking and caffeine consumption are thought to play a role in its development. The presence of Lewy bodies characterizes the disease, the aggregation of alpha-synuclein, the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra, and disruptions in basal ganglia circuitry, resulting in both motor and non-motor symptoms. This review is structured into several key sections, beginning with an exploration of the pathophysiological mechanisms behind PD, including how genetic mutations can lead to deficits in the Ubiquitin Proteasome System and mitochondrial function, which are linked to familial cases of the disease. Following this, the article explores diagnostic methods, such as the UK Brain Bank Criteria, advanced imaging techniques, olfactory testing, and innovative technologies like machine learning, all of which support early detection and accurate diagnosis of PD. Treatment strategies are also comprehensively reviewed, focusing on traditional pharmacological options like levodopa and dopamine agonists, as well as surgical interventions such as deep brain stimulation. Additionally, the review discusses promising new therapies, including immunotherapy aimed at neuroinflammation and gene therapy for disease modification. The impact of lifestyle changes such as exercise and diet on reducing PD risk and enhancing symptom management are also considered. In conclusion, this review highlights the complex nature of Parkinson's disease and underscores the need for a holistic approach that combines pharmacotherapy, advanced treatments, and lifestyle adjustments. By addressing both symptom management and disease modification, these strategies provide hope for improving quality of life.

The field of drug discovery has long been challenged by the existence of “undruggable” proteins - targets that have resisted traditional small molecule approaches due to their structural or functional characteristics. This review explores the revolutionary potential of small interfering RNA (siRNA) technology in addressing these elusive targets, marking a paradigm shift in therapeutic development. We discuss the historical development of siRNA technology and its unique mechanism of action, which allows for the silencing of virtually any gene, including those coding for proteins previously deemed undruggable. The review provides a comprehensive analysis of the challenges in targeting undruggable proteins and how siRNA approaches are overcoming these obstacles. We examine several case studies of undruggable targets being successfully addressed by siRNA, including oncogenic proteins like KRAS and c-Myc, transcription factors such as NF-κB and STAT3, and proteins involved in complex protein-protein interactions. The article delves into the latest advances in siRNA design, delivery systems, and targeting strategies, highlighting innovations that enhance specificity and reduce off-target effects. We also discuss the challenges facing siRNA therapeutics, including delivery obstacles, potential immune responses, and regulatory considerations. The review concludes with an exploration of future directions, including combination therapies, personalized medicine approaches, and emerging technologies that complement siRNA strategies. By providing a thorough examination of the advances, challenges, and prospects of using siRNA to target undruggable proteins, this review underscores the transformative potential of this technology in expanding the landscape of therapeutic targets and ushering in a new era of precision medicine.