Potential of siRNA in COVID-19 therapy: Emphasis on in silico design and nanoparticles based delivery

Abstract

Small interfering RNA (siRNA)-mediated mRNA degradation approach have imparted its eminence against several difficult-to-treat genetic disorders and other allied diseases. Viral outbreaks and resulting pandemics have repeatedly threatened public health and questioned human preparedness at the forefront of drug design and biomedical readiness. During the recent pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2, mRNA-based vaccination strategies have paved the way for a new era of RNA therapeutics. RNA Interference (RNAi) based approach using small interfering RNA may complement clinical management of the COVID-19. RNA Interference approach will primarily work by restricting the synthesis of the proteins required for viral replication, thereby hampering viral cellular entry and trafficking by targeting host as well as protein factors. Despite promising benefits, the stability of small interfering RNA in the physiological environment is of grave concern as well as site-directed targeted delivery and evasion of the immune system require immediate attention. In this regard, nanotechnology offers viable solutions for these challenges. The review highlights the potential of small interfering RNAs targeted toward specific regions of the viral genome and the features of nanoformulations necessary for the entrapment and delivery of small interfering RNAs. In silico design of small interfering RNA for different variants of SARS-CoV-2 has been discussed. Various nanoparticles as promising carriers of small interfering RNAs along with their salient properties, including surface functionalization, are summarized. This review will help tackle the real-world challenges encountered by the in vivo delivery of small interfering RNAs, ensuring a safe, stable, and readily available drug candidate for efficient management of SARS-CoV-2 in the future.

Biogenesis, Isolation, and Detection of Exosomes and Their Potential in Therapeutics and Diagnostics

“…The technique of using the immune response detected through the antigens and antibodies for recognizing proteins has been growing rapidly and is widely used for analyzing the diversity of exosomes [ 144 ]. Antibodies can be immobilized on surfaces via different linker molecules, such as glutaraldehyde, 1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl) carbodiimide (EDC)/N-hydroxysuccinimide (NHS), and self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) [ 145 , 146 ]. In a study performed by Yuand et al [ 122 ], an antibody-modified reduced graphene oxide was used to recognize the CD63 protein allocated on exosomes.…”

Plant‐based essential oil encapsulated in nanoemulsions and their enhanced therapeutic applications: An overview

“…Also, in these early stages of development, siRNA can be encapsulated in nanocarrier and conjugated in vivo with certain ligands, aptamers or entrapped in ionizable cationic lipids for intracellular delivery of the active materials into desired target sites and silence the gene of interest. Another approach is the in silico design and molecular docking of siRNA for targeting viral region of SARS-CoV-2 variants (Fopase et al, 2023).…”

A cross-disciplinary view of current and emerging COVID-19 developments

“…Small interfering RNA (siRNA) delivered to respiratory mucosal cells using innovative lipid nanoparticle formulation also shows promise for development as prophylaxis 13 and a novel class of antiviral therapeutics. 18 Current and emerging COVID-19 developments international intelligence. The ACDC will provide the vehicle for rapid advice from experts to the government.…”