In vivo self-assembled siRNAs ameliorate neurological pathology in TDP-43-associated neurodegenerative disease

Abstract

Abnormal accumulation of TAR DNA-binding protein-43 (TDP-43) is a hallmark of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD). Small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) targeting TDP-43 offer potential therapeutic strategies for these diseases. However, efficient and safe delivery of siRNAs to the central nervous system (CNS) remains a critical challenge. Here, we present a synthetic biology-based approach that leverages endogenous small RNA processing machinery to self-assemble siRNA-encapsulating small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) and utilizes the host's natural circulatory system to transport siRNAs. Specifically, we engineered liver cells to express and package TDP-43-targeting siRNAs into rabies virus glycoprotein (RVG)-tagged sEVs, which are released into circulation and cross the blood-brain barrier to deliver siRNAs to the CNS. In a mouse model of TDP-43 pathology induced by stereotactic injection of mutant TDP-43 (M337V) virus, treatment with in vivo self-assembled TDP-43 siRNAs (IVSA-siR-TDP43) effectively reduced TDP-43 accumulation, leading to significant improvements in motor function and neuropathology. Additionally, an adeno-associated virus (AAV)-based delivery system was utilized to produce IVSA-siR-TDP43, demonstrating sustained therapeutic effects in TDP-43-associated neurodegeneration. These findings highlight a novel, effective, and minimally invasive gene therapy platform for addressing TDP-43 pathology in ALS and FTLD, offering a promising avenue for future clinical applications.

Keywords: TDP-43; neurodegenerative disease; siRNA; small extracellular vesicles; synthetic biology.