Spliceosome-mediated trans-splicing: the therapeutic cut and paste

J Invest Dermatol. 2012 Aug;132(8):1959-66. doi: 10.1038/jid.2012.101. Epub 2012 Apr 12.

Abstract

Spliceosome-mediated RNA trans-splicing (SMaRT) is an RNA-based technology to reprogram genes for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. For the correction of genetic diseases, SMaRT offers several advantages over traditional gene-replacement strategies. SMaRT protocols have recently been used for in vitro phenotypic correction of a variety of genetic disorders, ranging from epidermolysis bullosa to neurodegenerative diseases. In vivo studies are currently bringing trans-splicing RNA therapy toward clinical application. In this review, we summarize the progress made toward the medical use of SMaRT and provide an outlook on its upcoming applications.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Alleles
  • Animals
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / genetics
  • Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator / genetics
  • Genetic Diseases, Inborn / genetics*
  • Genetic Techniques
  • Genetic Therapy / methods*
  • Genetic Therapy / trends
  • Humans
  • Mice
  • Models, Genetic
  • Mutation
  • Phenotype
  • RNA Splicing
  • Spliceosomes / genetics*
  • Spliceosomes / metabolism
  • Trans-Splicing

Substances

  • CFTR protein, human
  • Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator