MicroRNAs, or miRNAs for short, are small RNA molecules that in principle represent interesting pharmacological agents for therapeutic application, since certain miRNAs can suppress tumour growth. Initially, however, miRNAs are completely unsuitable as drugs: as molecules, they are relatively large, highly unstable and struggle to reach their target site in the body. This means that the scientists first have to transfer the miRNAs into suitable active forms and package them for this purpose, for example in nanoparticles. The research group led by Professor Achim Aigner of the Rudolf Boehm Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Clinical Pharmacology has developed such specific nanoparticles.
In the experimental therapy in mouse models, the Leipzig research group was able to show that such nanoparticle-based microRNAs, in this case so-called MIR143, do indeed inhibit tumour growth. In further studies, the scientists will combine this therapy model with existing clinical treatments, such as hormone suppression and chemotherapy. The long-term goals are to make the treatment of prostate cancer more effective, further improve the nanoparticles and reduce their side effects.
Original publications in
ScienceDirect: Exploring the MIR143-UPAR Axis for the Inhibition of Human Prostate Cancer Cells In Vitro and In Vivo. Mol Ther Nucleic Acids 16, 272-283. DOI:10.1016/j.omtn.2019.02.020
“Drug Delivery of siRNA Therapeutics” “Polymeric Nanoparticles Based on Tyrosine-Modified, Low Molecular Weight Polyethylenimines for siRNA Delivery”, DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics11110600