Combating hepatitis C virus by targeting microRNA-122 using locked nucleic acids

Curr Gene Ther. 2012 Aug;12(4):301-6. doi: 10.2174/156652312802083558.

Abstract

MicroRNAs have been predicted to regulate the stability and translation of many target mRNAs that are involved in modulating disease outcome. Thus, valuable strategies to enhance or to diminish the function of microRNAs are needed to manipulate microRNA-mediated target gene expression. Recently, it has become apparent that one class of antisense oligonucleotides, locked nucleic acids, can be used to sequester microRNAs in the liver of a variety of animals including humans, opening the possibility of applying locked nucleic acid-mediated gene therapy. This review summarizes the success of sequestration of liver-specific microRNA miR-122 by antisense locked nucleic acids and their use in combating hepatitis C virus in clinical trials.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Genetic Therapy
  • Hepacivirus* / genetics
  • Hepacivirus* / pathogenicity
  • Hepatitis C / genetics
  • Hepatitis C / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Liver / metabolism
  • Liver / virology
  • MicroRNAs* / antagonists & inhibitors
  • MicroRNAs* / genetics
  • MicroRNAs* / metabolism
  • Molecular Targeted Therapy
  • Nucleic Acids / chemistry
  • Nucleic Acids / therapeutic use
  • Oligonucleotides, Antisense / genetics
  • Oligonucleotides, Antisense / metabolism
  • Oligonucleotides, Antisense / therapeutic use*
  • RNA, Viral / antagonists & inhibitors
  • RNA, Viral / genetics

Substances

  • MIRN122 microRNA, human
  • MicroRNAs
  • Nucleic Acids
  • Oligonucleotides, Antisense
  • RNA, Viral