Therapeutic applications of RNA nanostructures
Theresa Yip, Xiaodong Qi, Hao Yan, Yung Chang
Abstract
. In this review, we examine the therapeutic applications of RNA nanostructures. Non-immunogenic RNA nanostructures can be rationally designed with functional RNA molecules to modulate gene expression for gene therapy. On the other hand, nucleic acids can be sensed by cellular receptors to elicit an innate immune response, for which certain DNA and RNA motifs can function as adjuvants. Taking advantage of this adjuvant potential, RNA nanostructures can be used for immunotherapy and be designed for cancer vaccines. Thus, we examine the therapeutic application of immunogenic RNA nanostructures for cancer immunotherapy. RNA nanostructures represent promising platforms to design new nanodrugs, gene therapeutics, immunotherapeutic adjuvants, and cancer vaccines. Ongoing research in the field of RNA nanotechnology will continue to empower the development of RNA nanostructure-based therapeutics with high efficacy and limited toxicity.