Kallanthottathil G Rajeev

Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States.

50 publications 2007 – 2025 ORCID

What does Kallanthottathil G Rajeev research?

Dr. Rajeev studies gene editing techniques, with a strong emphasis on using CRISPR (a tool for cutting and modifying DNA) to treat conditions related to high cholesterol and liver diseases. His research involves developing methods to deliver CRISPR therapies using specialized nanoparticles that help these treatments work effectively, even in patients who have trouble using traditional delivery methods. This is especially pertinent for individuals diagnosed with homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia, a serious genetic condition that causes extremely high cholesterol levels.

Key findings

  • In a 2023 study, the delivery of CRISPR therapy via modified nanoparticles increased liver editing in monkeys from 5% to 61%, leading to a 89% reduction in a cholesterol-related protein after six months.
  • In a 2021 study, a single injection of CRISPR therapy led to a 60% drop in cholesterol levels in monkeys, with this reduction lasting at least 8 months without further treatment.
  • Dr. Rajeev's techniques provide new options for patients unable to use standard cholesterol treatments, highlighting a significant advancement in gene therapy for heart disease.

Frequently asked questions

Does Dr. Rajeev study cholesterol conditions?
Yes, he specifically focuses on conditions like high cholesterol caused by genetic factors.
What treatments has Dr. Rajeev researched?
He has researched CRISPR gene editing therapies aimed at reducing cholesterol levels and improving liver function.
Is Dr. Rajeev's work relevant to patients with cholesterol issues?
Absolutely, his research offers potential new treatments for patients suffering from genetically high cholesterol levels.

Publications in plain English

Expanding Conjugate Space of RNAi Therapeutics: Ligand at the 3' End of the Antisense Strand Achieves Uncompromised In Vivo Potency and Efficacy and Reveals Interactions with the Argonaute-2 PAZ Domain.

2025

Journal of medicinal chemistry

Das RS, Datta D, Brown CR, Gilbert JA, Chan A +12 more

Plain English
This study looked at a new way to enhance RNA-based drugs by attaching a specific molecule called GalNAc to one end of the drugs. The researchers found that these modified drugs worked just as effectively in the body as traditional ones, with a 22-nucleotide version showing better performance than a 23-nucleotide version. This is important because it shows a new method for improving how we deliver and use RNA therapeutics, which could lead to better treatments for various diseases. Who this helps: This benefits patients needing RNA-based therapies, especially those with liver-related conditions.

PubMed

Metabolically Stable Anomeric Linkages Containing GalNAc-siRNA Conjugates: An Interplay among ASGPR, Glycosidase, and RISC Pathways.

2023

Journal of medicinal chemistry

Kandasamy P, Mori S, Matsuda S, Erande N, Datta D +20 more

Plain English
This study looked at how modifying a substance called GalNAc, which helps deliver small pieces of RNA (siRNA) to liver cells, affects their ability to work effectively. Researchers created new versions of GalNAc that are more stable in the body and found that these versions still performed as well as the original in delivering siRNA and silencing genes in mice. This is important because it shows that making these modifications can improve the delivery of therapies for liver diseases without losing effectiveness. Who this helps: This helps patients with liver conditions by improving the delivery of RNA-based treatments.

PubMed

Shorter Is Better: The α-(l)-Threofuranosyl Nucleic Acid Modification Improves Stability, Potency, Safety, and Ago2 Binding and Mitigates Off-Target Effects of Small Interfering RNAs.

2023

Journal of the American Chemical Society

Matsuda S, Bala S, Liao JY, Datta D, Mikami A +21 more

Plain English
The study focused on a new chemical modification called α-(l)-threofuranosyl nucleic acid (TNA) for small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) that are used in medical treatments. Researchers found that TNA made these treatments more stable and effective, improving their safety and reducing unwanted side effects. Specifically, TNA significantly increased resistance to breakdown in the body compared to other modifications, enhancing the overall performance of the siRNAs. Who this helps: This benefits patients who receive RNA-based therapies for various diseases.

PubMed

GalNAc-Lipid nanoparticles enable non-LDLR dependent hepatic delivery of a CRISPR base editing therapy.

2023

Nature communications

Kasiewicz LN, Biswas S, Beach A, Ren H, Dutta C +13 more

Plain English
This study focused on a new way to deliver a CRISPR therapy to the liver using special nanoparticles that don't rely on a common receptor that some patients lack. The researchers found that by modifying these nanoparticles, they could increase liver editing from 5% to 61% in certain monkeys, and this treatment led to a significant decrease in a specific protein related to cholesterol levels, achieving reductions of up to 89% six months later. This matters because it provides a potential treatment option for patients who cannot use traditional methods due to their genetic conditions. Who this helps: Patients with homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia and other liver-related disorders.

PubMed

Chirality matters: stereo-defined phosphorothioate linkages at the termini of small interfering RNAs improve pharmacology in vivo.

2022

Nucleic acids research

Jahns H, Taneja N, Willoughby JLS, Akabane-Nakata M, Brown CR +11 more

Plain English
Researchers studied how certain chemical changes in small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) can help them last longer in the body. They found that using specific versions of a chemical called phosphorothioate (PS) at the ends of the siRNAs improved their stability and effectiveness in mice. Specifically, they noted that using the Rp version at one end and the Sp version at the other made the siRNAs work better. Who this helps: This research benefits patients who could receive RNA-based therapies for various diseases.

PubMed

In vivo CRISPR base editing of PCSK9 durably lowers cholesterol in primates.

2021

Nature

Musunuru K, Chadwick AC, Mizoguchi T, Garcia SP, DeNizio JE +37 more

Plain English
Researchers used a gene-editing tool called CRISPR to permanently disable a gene in monkeys' livers that controls cholesterol production, delivering it through tiny fat particles injected into the bloodstream. After a single injection, the monkeys' cholesterol dropped by about 60% and stayed low for at least 8 months without any additional treatment. This proves that gene editing could offer heart disease patients a one-time treatment instead of taking cholesterol drugs for life.

PubMed

Safety evaluation of 2'-deoxy-2'-fluoro nucleotides in GalNAc-siRNA conjugates.

2019

Nucleic acids research

Janas MM, Zlatev I, Liu J, Jiang Y, Barros SA +29 more

Plain English
This study looked at the safety of a new type of chemical modification, called 2'-deoxy-2'-fluoro (2'-F) nucleotides, used in two medications designed to target liver cells. The research found that when these drugs were given to rats and humans, the chemicals were present in low amounts for a short time and did not cause significant harm. After nearly two years of treatment in rats, there were no serious side effects documented, suggesting that these modified drugs can be safely used to improve treatment effectiveness while allowing for lower doses and less frequent administration. Who this helps: This benefits patients needing targeted liver treatments, particularly those with conditions like genetic disorders.

PubMed

5'-Morpholino modification of the sense strand of an siRNA makes it a more effective passenger.

2019

Chemical communications (Cambridge, England)

Kumar P, Parmar RG, Brown CR, Willoughby JLS, Foster DJ +9 more

Plain English
This study looked at a modification to a type of RNA used in gene silencing, specifically adding a 5'-morpholino group to one of the strands. The researchers found that this modification made the RNA more effective at silencing genes by improving strand selection, while similar changes to the opposite strand completely stopped its activity. This discovery is important because it can lead to better techniques for controlling gene expression in various diseases. Who this helps: This helps researchers and doctors developing new gene therapies.

PubMed

Evaluation of GalNAc-siRNA Conjugate Activity in Pre-clinical Animal Models with Reduced Asialoglycoprotein Receptor Expression.

2018

Molecular therapy : the journal of the American Society of Gene Therapy

Willoughby JLS, Chan A, Sehgal A, Butler JS, Nair JK +12 more

Plain English
This study looked at a new type of drug delivery system using GalNAc-siRNA conjugates, which target the liver cells to effectively deliver treatment. Researchers found that even when the liver cells had over 50% less of a specific receptor needed for the drug to enter the cells, the delivery of the drug still worked well. This is important because it means this drug delivery method can be useful in treating liver-related diseases where the receptor is not as active. Who this helps: This benefits patients with liver diseases and doctors treating them.

PubMed

Facile Synthesis, Geometry, and 2'-Substituent-Dependent in Vivo Activity of 5'-(E)- and 5'-(Z)-Vinylphosphonate-Modified siRNA Conjugates.

2018

Journal of medicinal chemistry

Parmar RG, Brown CR, Matsuda S, Willoughby JLS, Theile CS +8 more

Plain English
This study focused on a new way to enhance the effectiveness of a type of genetic therapy called siRNA by modifying its structure with a specific chemical compound called vinylphosphonate. The researchers found that the siRNA modified with the (E) version of vinylphosphonate worked better in mice, achieving significant gene silencing compared to the (Z) version—the difference being a notable improvement in effectiveness despite both types having similar levels in the body. This matters because better siRNA therapies can lead to more effective treatments for various diseases at the genetic level. Who this helps: Patients who may benefit from advanced genetic therapies.

PubMed

Advanced siRNA Designs Further Improve In Vivo Performance of GalNAc-siRNA Conjugates.

2018

Molecular therapy : the journal of the American Society of Gene Therapy

Foster DJ, Brown CR, Shaikh S, Trapp C, Schlegel MK +8 more

Plain English
This study focused on improving a type of RNA therapy by refining the design of specialized molecules called siRNA, which are used to silence specific genes in the liver. The researchers found that by tweaking the chemical structure of these siRNA molecules, they could significantly increase their effectiveness—showing a notable enhancement in potency and duration of action in tests with non-human primates. These improvements can lead to better treatments for diseases by ensuring that the therapy works longer and more effectively in the body. Who this helps: This research benefits patients needing effective liver-targeted gene therapies.

PubMed

Selection of GalNAc-conjugated siRNAs with limited off-target-driven rat hepatotoxicity.

2018

Nature communications

Janas MM, Schlegel MK, Harbison CE, Yilmaz VO, Jiang Y +10 more

Plain English
This study looked at a type of drug called GalNAc-conjugated small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), which are being tested for various diseases. Researchers found that harmful effects on rat livers mainly came from unintended interactions caused by RNA interference, but these issues can be reduced by changing the chemical structure of the siRNAs. This is important because it can make future siRNA treatments safer for patients. Who this helps: This benefits patients who might receive siRNA therapies, ensuring they are safer and more effective.

PubMed

Reversal of siRNA-mediated gene silencing in vivo.

2018

Nature biotechnology

Zlatev I, Castoreno A, Brown CR, Qin J, Waldron S +11 more

Plain English
This research focused on a new method to reverse gene silencing caused by a therapeutic technique called RNA interference (RNAi). The researchers discovered that using short, specially designed molecules called oligonucleotides can quickly turn off the gene silencing effect, particularly when they were 9 bases long and included five locked nucleic acids, which made them more effective. This method, called REVERSIR, can improve treatments that use GalNAc-siRNA by allowing doctors to better manage how long the gene silencing lasts, which is important for patient care. Who this helps: Patients receiving RNAi-based therapies.

PubMed

Structural basis for the synergy of 4'- and 2'-modifications on siRNA nuclease resistance, thermal stability and RNAi activity.

2018

Nucleic acids research

Harp JM, Guenther DC, Bisbe A, Perkins L, Matsuda S +9 more

Plain English
This study looked at how certain chemical modifications to small interfering RNA (siRNA) can make them more effective in resisting breakdown by enzymes in the body and improve their overall stability. The researchers found that a specific combination of modifications, particularly using the 4' position, made siRNAs resistant to enzymes while maintaining their activity. For instance, the modified siRNAs showed increased resistance against an exonuclease and improved thermal stability, making them more reliable as potential therapies. Who this helps: This benefits patients needing effective RNA-based treatments, such as those with genetic disorders or cancers.

PubMed

Chirality Dependent Potency Enhancement and Structural Impact of Glycol Nucleic Acid Modification on siRNA.

2017

Journal of the American Chemical Society

Schlegel MK, Foster DJ, Kel'in AV, Zlatev I, Bisbe A +9 more

Plain English
This study looked at a modified type of genetic material called glycol nucleic acid (GNA) and how it affects small interfering RNA (siRNA), which is used to silence specific genes. Researchers found that when they used one version of GNA (called (S)-GNA), it preserved the structure of the siRNA better than another version ((R)-GNA), which caused disruptions. The (S)-GNA modifications increased the effectiveness of the siRNA, resulting in about a two-fold increase in its potency when tested in mice. Who this helps: This helps patients who are receiving gene therapy treatments.

PubMed

4'-C-Methoxy-2'-deoxy-2'-fluoro Modified Ribonucleotides Improve Metabolic Stability and Elicit Efficient RNAi-Mediated Gene Silencing.

2017

Journal of the American Chemical Society

Malek-Adamian E, Guenther DC, Matsuda S, Martínez-Montero S, Zlatev I +15 more

Plain English
Researchers created new versions of a specific type of RNA called siRNA, which are used to turn off genes in cells. They found that a modified version of this RNA, known as the C4'α-epimer, worked well to resist breakdown and performed gene silencing just as effectively as the regular version, achieving similar results in laboratory tests. This improvement in stability and effectiveness suggests that these new RNA types could lead to better treatments for various diseases by enhancing the reliability of gene silencing therapies. Who this helps: This benefits patients needing gene-targeted therapies.

PubMed

Impact of enhanced metabolic stability on pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of GalNAc-siRNA conjugates.

2017

Nucleic acids research

Nair JK, Attarwala H, Sehgal A, Wang Q, Aluri K +19 more

Plain English
This study looked at a new way of delivering siRNA (a type of medication that can silence genes) to liver cells using a special compound called GalNAc. The researchers found that by modifying the siRNA to make it more stable, they could significantly improve its ability to reach the liver and silence genes effectively; liver exposure increased by a notable factor, and the effects lasted longer in mice. These findings are important because they could lead to more effective treatments for liver diseases or other conditions related to gene expression. Who this helps: This helps patients with liver diseases as well as doctors involved in gene therapy.

PubMed

5'-C-Malonyl RNA: Small Interfering RNAs Modified with 5'-Monophosphate Bioisostere Demonstrate Gene Silencing Activity.

2016

ACS chemical biology

Zlatev I, Foster DJ, Liu J, Charisse K, Brigham B +6 more

Plain English
This study explored a new type of small interfering RNA (siRNA) modified with a special chemical called 5'-C-malonyl to see if it could improve gene silencing, which is a process that stops certain genes from being active. The researchers found that these modified siRNAs showed better performance, with improved gene silencing activity and greater stability compared to traditional siRNAs, making them up to three times more effective in their tests. This is important because it could lead to more effective treatments for diseases that involve problematic genes. Who this helps: This helps patients needing targeted gene therapies.

PubMed

Structural Basis of Duplex Thermodynamic Stability and Enhanced Nuclease Resistance of 5'-C-Methyl Pyrimidine-Modified Oligonucleotides.

2016

The Journal of organic chemistry

Kel'in AV, Zlatev I, Harp J, Jayaraman M, Bisbe A +9 more

Plain English
This study examined how modifying the structure of certain genetic materials (called oligonucleotides) can make them more stable and resistant to degradation in the body. Researchers found that using specific modifications called 5'-C-methyl substitutions improved stability against enzymes that typically break down these nucleotides, with (S)-substituted versions showing the best resistance. For example, the (S)-modifications provided increased protection from certain enzymes compared to (R)-versions, which is important for developing effective treatments that use genetic material. Who this helps: This benefits patients needing more effective nucleic acid therapies, such as those with genetic disorders or cancers.

PubMed

Preclinical evaluation of RNAi as a treatment for transthyretin-mediated amyloidosis.

2016

Amyloid : the international journal of experimental and clinical investigation : the official journal of the International Society of Amyloidosis

Butler JS, Chan A, Costelha S, Fishman S, Willoughby JL +16 more

Plain English
This study focused on a serious disease called ATTR amyloidosis, which happens when a protein called transthyretin (TTR) builds up in the body and causes damage. The researchers tested a method called RNA interference (RNAi) in mice to lower the levels of TTR, finding that this approach not only reduced TTR buildup but also helped shrink existing deposits. The results were promising: RNAi was more effective than the current treatment option, tafamidis, showing greater reduction of TTR deposits in various tissues. Who this helps: This benefits patients suffering from ATTR amyloidosis and offers potential for better treatment options.

PubMed

5'-(E)-Vinylphosphonate: A Stable Phosphate Mimic Can Improve the RNAi Activity of siRNA-GalNAc Conjugates.

2016

Chembiochem : a European journal of chemical biology

Parmar R, Willoughby JL, Liu J, Foster DJ, Brigham B +14 more

Plain English
This study focused on improving a specific type of RNA treatment used to silence harmful genes by examining a stable phosphate mimic called 5'-(E)-vinylphosphonate. The researchers found that using this mimic can increase the effectiveness of these treatments, achieving up to a 20 times increase in strength in lab tests and a three times improvement in live tests, making it easier for the treatments to bind with necessary proteins. This is important because enhanced treatments could lead to better outcomes for patients with diseases that gene silencing therapies target. Who this helps: This helps patients who are receiving gene silencing therapies.

PubMed

A Glu-urea-Lys Ligand-conjugated Lipid Nanoparticle/siRNA System Inhibits Androgen Receptor Expression In Vivo.

2016

Molecular therapy. Nucleic acids

Lee JB, Zhang K, Tam YY, Quick J, Tam YK +9 more

Plain English
Researchers studied a new treatment method for prostate cancer by using tiny fat particles to deliver a specific RNA that blocks the production of the androgen receptor, which fuels cancer growth. In tests with mice, this method led to a significant drop in prostate cancer markers, with reduced cancer cell growth and androgen receptor levels. This approach shows promise for more effective treatments in battling advanced prostate cancer. Who this helps: This helps patients with advanced prostate cancer.

PubMed

siRNA conjugates carrying sequentially assembled trivalent N-acetylgalactosamine linked through nucleosides elicit robust gene silencing in vivo in hepatocytes.

2015

ACS chemical biology

Matsuda S, Keiser K, Nair JK, Charisse K, Manoharan RM +13 more

Plain English
This study looked at how a special sugar molecule, N-acetylgalactosamine (GalNAc), can help deliver gene-silencing treatments called siRNAs specifically to liver cells. Researchers found that the arrangement of GalNAc on the siRNA affects how well it binds to liver cells and works to silence genes. They discovered that when GalNAc is grouped together at one end of the siRNA, it increases the effectiveness of gene silencing significantly, making this method promising for future drug development. Who this helps: This benefits patients needing treatments for liver diseases by potentially improving the effectiveness of gene-silencing therapies.

PubMed

Hepatocyte-specific delivery of siRNAs conjugated to novel non-nucleosidic trivalent N-acetylgalactosamine elicits robust gene silencing in vivo.

2015

Chembiochem : a European journal of chemical biology

Rajeev KG, Nair JK, Jayaraman M, Charisse K, Taneja N +12 more

Plain English
Researchers studied a new way to deliver tiny RNA molecules (siRNAs) specifically to liver cells using a modified sugar called GalNAc. They found that this new delivery method was effective and required fewer steps to create than previous methods, achieving strong gene silencing in the liver. This matters because it could lead to more efficient treatments for liver-related diseases by targeting gene expression directly in liver cells. Who this helps: This helps patients with liver diseases.

PubMed

An RNAi therapeutic targeting antithrombin to rebalance the coagulation system and promote hemostasis in hemophilia.

2015

Nature medicine

Sehgal A, Barros S, Ivanciu L, Cooley B, Qin J +27 more

Plain English
This study focused on developing a new treatment for hemophilia A and B, which are genetic disorders that cause excessive bleeding due to low levels of specific blood-clotting factors. Researchers created a treatment called ALN-AT3 that lowers a protein called antithrombin, which is known to inhibit blood clotting. In tests, ALN-AT3 reduced antithrombin levels by 50% with an effective lower dose and improved blood clotting in animal models, showing potential for better treatment outcomes for hemophilia patients. Who this helps: This helps patients with hemophilia A and B, especially those who have developed resistance to existing treatments.

PubMed

Prevalence of skeletal fluorosis in fisherman from Kutch coast, Gujarat, India.

2015

Roczniki Panstwowego Zakladu Higieny

John J, Hariharan M, Remy V, Haleem S, Thajuraj PK +3 more

Plain English
Researchers examined the occurrence of skeletal fluorosis, a bone condition caused by too much fluoride, among fishermen along the Kutch coast in Gujarat, India. Out of 653 fishermen surveyed, 30.3% were found to have skeletal fluorosis, with 18.4% experiencing mild cases. This issue is significant because it is linked to factors like age and habits involving tobacco and alcohol, indicating a need for community health measures to prevent this condition. Who this helps: This helps fishermen and their families by raising awareness and guiding public health efforts.

PubMed

Allele-selective inhibition of mutant atrophin-1 expression by duplex and single-stranded RNAs.

2014

Biochemistry

Hu J, Liu J, Narayanannair KJ, Lackey JG, Kuchimanchi S +8 more

Plain English
This study looked at a genetic disorder called Dentatorubral-pallidoluysian atrophy (DRPLA), which worsens over time and has no current cure. Researchers tested different types of RNA to see if they could effectively reduce the harmful version of a gene called atrophin-1 (ATN-1) that causes the disease. They found that specific RNA compounds could decrease the harmful protein by over eight times compared to the normal version, indicating a promising approach to develop treatments for DRPLA and potentially other related diseases. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with DRPLA and other similar genetic disorders.

PubMed

Multivalent N-acetylgalactosamine-conjugated siRNA localizes in hepatocytes and elicits robust RNAi-mediated gene silencing.

2014

Journal of the American Chemical Society

Nair JK, Willoughby JL, Chan A, Charisse K, Alam MR +20 more

Plain English
This study focused on a new way to deliver small pieces of RNA, called siRNA, specifically to liver cells. Researchers found that a modified siRNA linked to a special sugar (N-acetylgalactosamine) successfully silenced targeted genes in the liver, achieving a significant effectiveness improvement—five times better than earlier versions—with a single dose working at just 1 mg/kg. This is important because it shows promise for treating various liver-related diseases without causing negative side effects, maintaining effectiveness for over nine months in animal tests. Who this helps: This helps patients with liver diseases.

PubMed

An immobilized and reusable Cu(I) catalyst for metal ion-free conjugation of ligands to fully deprotected oligonucleotides through click reaction.

2013

Chemical communications (Cambridge, England)

Eltepu L, Jayaraman M, Rajeev KG, Manoharan M

Plain English
This study looked at a new method for attaching molecules to RNA strands without using harmful metal ions. Researchers found that their system, which uses a reusable copper catalyst, prevented damage to the RNA and eliminated contamination, while also resolving issues related to how the molecules bond. These results indicate a safer and more efficient way to modify RNA for research and potential therapies. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and scientists working with RNA in medicine and biotechnology.

PubMed

Automated parallel synthesis of 5'-triphosphate oligonucleotides and preparation of chemically modified 5'-triphosphate small interfering RNA.

2013

Bioorganic & medicinal chemistry

Zlatev I, Lackey JG, Zhang L, Dell A, McRae K +4 more

Plain English
This study focused on creating a new method for producing special kinds of RNA molecules called 5'-triphosphate oligonucleotides, which can be used in gene silencing therapy. The researchers automated the process, allowing them to quickly produce many different types of these molecules, including some that are chemically modified. While they found that adding the 5'-triphosphate group didn't significantly boost the effectiveness of these molecules in silencing genes, the new method still provides a way to explore a wide range of RNA therapies. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and pharmaceutical companies developing RNA-based treatments.

PubMed

Biodegradable lipids enabling rapidly eliminated lipid nanoparticles for systemic delivery of RNAi therapeutics.

2013

Molecular therapy : the journal of the American Society of Gene Therapy

Maier MA, Jayaraman M, Matsuda S, Liu J, Barros S +24 more

Plain English
This study focused on developing new biodegradable lipids to improve the delivery of RNA interference (RNAi) therapies, which are a promising type of treatment for various diseases. The researchers found that their new lipid nanoparticles are quickly removed from the body and are better tolerated, while still being as effective as existing lipids in clinical use. This is important because it could lead to safer and more effective RNAi treatments. Who this helps: Patients receiving RNAi therapies.

PubMed

RNA duplexes with abasic substitutions are potent and allele-selective inhibitors of huntingtin and ataxin-3 expression.

2013

Nucleic acids research

Liu J, Pendergraff H, Narayanannair KJ, Lackey JG, Kuchimanchi S +4 more

Plain English
Researchers investigated how certain changes in RNA, called abasic substitutions, can effectively target and silence genes responsible for Huntington's disease (HD) and Machado Joseph Disease (MJD). They found that these modified RNA molecules could specifically inhibit the faulty genes involved in these diseases, showing strong effectiveness in blocking the harmful protein production linked to these conditions. This is important because it opens the door for new treatments that could specifically target and reduce the effects of these serious neurological disorders. Who this helps: Patients with Huntington's disease and Machado Joseph Disease.

PubMed

Influence of Polyethylene Glycol Lipid Desorption Rates on Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of siRNA Lipid Nanoparticles.

2013

Molecular therapy. Nucleic acids

Mui BL, Tam YK, Jayaraman M, Ansell SM, Du X +11 more

Plain English
This study examined how the rate at which polyethylene glycol lipids release from lipid nanoparticles affects the delivery and effectiveness of RNA drugs targeting liver genes. Researchers found that at a concentration of 1.5 mol %, the length of the lipid chain had a minimal impact on gene silencing in the liver, but increasing the concentration to 2.5 and 3.5 mol % significantly reduced the effectiveness of longer lipids (C18 chains) while shorter ones (C14 chains) remained effective. These findings are important because they help optimize the design of RNA drug delivery systems to improve treatment for liver diseases. Who this helps: This helps patients with liver conditions who may benefit from more effective RNA-based therapies.

PubMed

Maximizing the potency of siRNA lipid nanoparticles for hepatic gene silencing in vivo.

2012

Angewandte Chemie (International ed. in English)

Jayaraman M, Ansell SM, Mui BL, Tam YK, Chen J +14 more

Plain English
This research studied how effectively certain lipid nanoparticles can deliver a type of genetic material called siRNA to silence specific genes in the liver. The researchers identified that a pK(a) value—related to the lipid's acidity—between 6.2 and 6.5 was most effective, with the best lipid needing only about 0.005 mg per kg of body weight in mice to achieve significant gene silencing. This finding is important because it can lead to more efficient treatments for diseases that involve the liver, using much smaller doses of the therapy. Who this helps: This benefits patients with liver diseases and their doctors by improving treatment options.

PubMed

Harnessing a physiologic mechanism for siRNA delivery with mimetic lipoprotein particles.

2012

Molecular therapy : the journal of the American Society of Gene Therapy

Nakayama T, Butler JS, Sehgal A, Severgnini M, Racie T +26 more

Plain English
This study focused on finding better ways to deliver a new type of medicine called siRNA, which can silence harmful proteins in the body. The researchers found that a special particle made from certain proteins (called E-lip) was very effective at getting these siRNAs to mouse livers, working better than another type of particle (A-lip). This matters because it could lead to safer and more effective treatments for diseases by ensuring the siRNAs reach their target without breaking down in the body. Who this helps: This helps patients who may benefit from new RNA-based therapies for various diseases.

PubMed

Branched multifunctional polyether polyketals: variation of ketal group structure enables unprecedented control over polymer degradation in solution and within cells.

2012

Journal of the American Chemical Society

Shenoi RA, Narayanannair JK, Hamilton JL, Lai BF, Horte S +5 more

Plain English
Researchers studied a new type of biodegradable material called polyether polyketals that can break down in different ways depending on their chemical structure. They found that these materials can degrade in as little as a few minutes or take hundreds of days, depending on how their ketal groups are arranged; for instance, some versions of these polymers showed similar degradation patterns inside live cells compared to when they were in solution. This discovery is important because it could lead to more effective delivery systems for medications, allowing doctors to tailor treatments based on how quickly the material breaks down in the body. Who this helps: This helps patients by potentially improving targeted drug delivery systems.

PubMed

Successful endodontic management of hypo, meso and hypertaurodontism: Two case reports.

2012

Contemporary clinical dentistry

Kulkarni G, Rajeev KG, Ambalavanan P, Kidiyoor KH

Plain English
This study looked at how to effectively treat a rare dental condition called taurodontism, where molars have unusually shaped roots. The researchers successfully treated two patients: one with a medium-level taurodont tooth and another with a high-level taurodont tooth. This is important because it shows that specialized dental care can successfully manage teeth that are difficult to treat. Who this helps: This helps dentists and patients with taurodontism.

PubMed

Versatile site-specific conjugation of small molecules to siRNA using click chemistry.

2011

The Journal of organic chemistry

Yamada T, Peng CG, Matsuda S, Addepalli H, Jayaprakash KN +7 more

Plain English
This study focused on a new method to attach small molecules to siRNA (a type of RNA that can silence genes) using a quick and efficient chemical process called click chemistry. Researchers found that using microwave-assisted techniques for this "click conjugation" led to the best results, allowing them to produce functional siRNA that successfully silenced a specific gene in human cells. This advancement is important because it enables more effective and targeted treatments in gene therapy, potentially improving treatment outcomes for various diseases. Who this helps: This helps patients needing targeted gene therapies.

PubMed

Unique gene-silencing and structural properties of 2'-fluoro-modified siRNAs.

2011

Angewandte Chemie (International ed. in English)

Manoharan M, Akinc A, Pandey RK, Qin J, Hadwiger P +10 more

PubMed

Multivalent cyclic RGD conjugates for targeted delivery of small interfering RNA.

2011

Bioconjugate chemistry

Alam MR, Ming X, Fisher M, Lackey JG, Rajeev KG +2 more

Plain English
Researchers developed a new method to deliver specific RNA molecules that can silence genes in certain cancer cells, specifically human melanoma cells. They created compounds that help the RNA attach to these cells more efficiently and found that the tri- and tetravalent versions of their compounds significantly reduced gene activity by about a dose-dependent 80%, while the bivalent version did not show much effect. This approach is important because it could lead to more effective treatments for cancer by precisely targeting and shutting down harmful genes. Who this helps: This helps patients with melanoma by potentially offering a more targeted treatment option.

PubMed

Rational design of cationic lipids for siRNA delivery.

2010

Nature biotechnology

Semple SC, Akinc A, Chen J, Sandhu AP, Mui BL +36 more

Plain English
This study looked at how to create better cationic lipids to help deliver small interfering RNA (siRNA) treatments more effectively. Researchers developed a new lipid called DLin-KC2-DMA, which successfully delivered siRNA in rodents at doses as low as 0.01 mg/kg and in nonhuman primates at 0.1 mg/kg. This is a significant improvement over earlier methods, making it easier to silence specific genes in the liver, which could lead to more effective therapies. Who this helps: This benefits patients needing targeted gene therapy treatments, as well as the doctors who administer these therapies.

PubMed

Lipophilic siRNAs mediate efficient gene silencing in oligodendrocytes with direct CNS delivery.

2010

Journal of controlled release : official journal of the Controlled Release Society

Chen Q, Butler D, Querbes W, Pandey RK, Ge P +7 more

Plain English
This study examined how connecting small RNA molecules (siRNAs) to cholesterol can help silence specific genes in oligodendrocytes, a type of brain cell. The results showed that when these cholesterol-linked siRNAs were directly delivered to rats' brains, they worked better in reducing the target gene (CNPase) than regular siRNAs, especially when using a special connector that can break apart in the body. This is significant because it offers a more effective way to deliver treatments for brain-related conditions that involve these cells. Who this helps: This helps patients with neurological disorders that affect oligodendrocytes.

PubMed

Targeted delivery of RNAi therapeutics with endogenous and exogenous ligand-based mechanisms.

2010

Molecular therapy : the journal of the American Society of Gene Therapy

Akinc A, Querbes W, De S, Qin J, Frank-Kamenetsky M +20 more

Plain English
This study focused on how to deliver RNA medicines effectively to liver cells using special tiny carriers called lipid nanoparticles (LNPs). Researchers discovered that a protein called apolipoprotein E (apoE) helps these carriers target liver cells and that a different method using a sugar-based targeting strategy can also be very effective. They found that both methods successfully delivered RNA to the liver, which is important for treating liver diseases. Who this helps: This benefits patients needing liver-targeted RNA therapies.

PubMed

Modulation of thermal stability can enhance the potency of siRNA.

2010

Nucleic acids research

Addepalli H, Meena, Peng CG, Wang G, Fan Y +10 more

Plain English
Researchers studied how modifying the stability of certain RNA strands can make them more effective at silencing genes. They found that by tweaking the RNA structure, specifically adding certain chemical changes, the potency of the RNA increased significantly, sometimes reaching a strength where only a tiny amount is needed to work effectively. This improvement matters because it could lead to more effective therapies that target specific genes in diseases. Who this helps: This benefits patients who could receive more effective treatments for conditions related to gene expression.

PubMed

Non-nucleoside building blocks for copper-assisted and copper-free click chemistry for the efficient synthesis of RNA conjugates.

2010

Organic letters

Jayaprakash KN, Peng CG, Butler D, Varghese JP, Maier MA +2 more

Plain English
This study focused on developing new building blocks that can enhance the creation of RNA molecules. Researchers found that these new components could be efficiently used to attach other important molecules to RNA without the contamination from copper ions, achieving almost 100% efficiency in their reactions. This work is important because it allows for the precise design of RNA-based therapies and tools without harmful residual materials. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and developers of RNA-based drugs and therapies.

PubMed

Development of lipidoid-siRNA formulations for systemic delivery to the liver.

2009

Molecular therapy : the journal of the American Society of Gene Therapy

Akinc A, Goldberg M, Qin J, Dorkin JR, Gamba-Vitalo C +10 more

Plain English
This study focused on creating a new way to deliver small interfering RNA (siRNA) specifically to the liver, which can help shut down harmful genes and stop the production of disease-causing proteins. Researchers developed a new delivery system called 98N(12)-5(1) that effectively targets the liver, with over 90% of the dose reaching this organ and allowing for long-lasting effects without decreasing in effectiveness over time. This matters because it could provide a safer and more effective treatment option for liver-related diseases. Who this helps: Patients with liver diseases.

PubMed

A combinatorial library of lipid-like materials for delivery of RNAi therapeutics.

2008

Nature biotechnology

Akinc A, Zumbuehl A, Goldberg M, Leshchiner ES, Busini V +27 more

Plain English
This research focused on creating a new type of delivery system for RNA interference (RNAi) therapies, which help silence specific genes associated with diseases. The scientists developed over 1,200 different lipid-like materials, called lipidoids, and found that some of these could effectively deliver RNA therapies to target genes in animals like mice, rats, and monkeys. This is important because it could lead to safer and more efficient treatments for various conditions where controlling gene activity is crucial. Who this helps: This benefits patients needing RNA-based therapies and their doctors.

PubMed

Therapeutic RNAi targeting PCSK9 acutely lowers plasma cholesterol in rodents and LDL cholesterol in nonhuman primates.

2008

Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America

Frank-Kamenetsky M, Grefhorst A, Anderson NN, Racie TS, Bramlage B +28 more

Plain English
This research studied a new type of RNA treatment that targets a protein called PCSK9, which is known to control cholesterol levels in the blood. In tests on mice, rats, and monkeys, the treatment effectively reduced PCSK9 levels by up to 70%, leading to a significant drop in LDL cholesterol by up to 60%. This matters because lowering LDL cholesterol is important for reducing the risk of heart disease, and this treatment could be a new way to help people with high cholesterol. Who this helps: Patients with high cholesterol.

PubMed

Crystal structure, stability and in vitro RNAi activity of oligoribonucleotides containing the ribo-difluorotoluyl nucleotide: insights into substrate requirements by the human RISC Ago2 enzyme.

2007

Nucleic acids research

Li F, Pallan PS, Maier MA, Rajeev KG, Mathieu SL +7 more

Plain English
This study looked at modified small RNA molecules (siRNAs) designed to improve gene silencing, focusing on how certain chemical changes affect their effectiveness in human cells. Researchers found that while some modifications didn't hinder the siRNA's ability to silence genes, changes involving specific mismatches were problematic, especially when certain pairs were present (e.g., an altered pair with G led to issues). Understanding these chemical modifications is important for developing better RNA therapies that can effectively target and silence unwanted genes. Who this helps: This helps patients needing gene therapies, particularly those with genetic disorders.

PubMed

Therapeutic silencing of mutant huntingtin with siRNA attenuates striatal and cortical neuropathology and behavioral deficits.

2007

Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America

DiFiglia M, Sena-Esteves M, Chase K, Sapp E, Pfister E +9 more

Plain English
This study examined a potential treatment for Huntington's disease by using a special type of small RNA to silence the faulty gene responsible for the disease in mice. The researchers found that this treatment not only protected nerve cells from damage but also improved behavior, such as reducing the number of falls when the mice were balanced on a beam. This is important because it shows that targeting the mutant gene could slow down the progression of Huntington's disease. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with Huntington's disease.

PubMed

Publication data sourced from PubMed . Plain-English summaries generated by AI. Not medical advice.