Constructing RNA Viruses for Long-Term Transcriptional Gene Silencing. Issue 1 (January 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Baltusnikas, Juozas; Satkauskas, Saulius; Lundstrom, Kenneth
• Is Part Of: Trends in biotechnology. Volume 37:Issue 1(2019)
• Page Start: 20
• Page End: 28
• Publication Date: 2019-01
• Subjects: cytoplasmic virus -- DNA methylation -- Sendai virus -- RNA virus -- siRNA delivery -- viral delivery; Biotechnology -- Periodicals; Biochemical engineering -- Periodicals; Genetic engineering -- Periodicals; Industrial microbiology -- Periodicals; 660.605
• DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2018.07.015
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0167-7799

Abstract

Abstract : Recent discoveries have shown that self-replicating RNA viruses can produce small RNAs (sRNAs) in host cells. Given their potential to be modified to generate short-term transgene expression without integrating viral sequences into the host genome, these viruses could be used as safe delivery vehicles for sRNAs to induce long-term transcriptional gene silencing (TGS). This might open new avenues for therapeutic approaches, where a single administration would safely induce long-term therapeutic effects for various diseases. Here, we introduce and discuss the possible use of cytoplasmic alphaviruses, flaviviruses, Sendai virus (SeV), and nucleoplasmic Influenza A (IAV) and Borna disease (BoDV) viruses to induce long-term TGS. Highlights: Self-replicating RNA viruses can produce sRNAs. Self-replicating RNA viruses may be used to induce sRNA-mediated long-term TGS. The ability to induce long-term TGS might lead to long-term therapy for various diseases after a single administration. Developing self-replicating, self-destructive RNA viruses that can induce long-term therapeutic effects is inherently a safer approach than others that require continuous drug administration or continuous synthesis of therapeutic biomolecules.