iRNA Compositions Targeting C5 Gene Expression

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current therapies for complement component C5-associated diseases, such as paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) and atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS), are costly and require frequent infusions, highlighting a need for alternative and combination therapies to effectively inhibit C5 expression.

Innovation Solution

Development of iRNA compositions that mediate RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC)-mediated cleavage of C5 gene transcripts, using double-stranded ribonucleic acid (dsRNA) agents with specific nucleotide sequences to target and reduce C5 expression, potentially combined with anti-C5 antibodies like eculizumab.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If eculizumab therapy is used to treat complement component C5-associated diseases, then therapeutic effectiveness is achieved, but treatment cost and infusion frequency increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetherapeutic effectivenessVSAvoidtreatment cost
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the therapeutic approach by combining two different mechanisms: eculizumab (an anti-C5 antibody) and iRNA compositions (RNA interference agents). This combination allows for reduced dosing frequency and cost while maintaining therapeutic effectiveness, as the iRNA component provides sustained inhibition of C5 expression

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the therapeutic parameters by introducing iRNA compositions that target C5 gene transcription, thereby reducing the need for frequent high-dose eculizumab infusions. This parameter change from sole antibody therapy to combination therapy with RNA interference agents reduces overall treatment cost while maintaining reliability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If eculizumab therapy is used to treat complement component C5-associated diseases, then therapeutic effectiveness is achieved, but infusion frequency increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetherapeutic effectivenessVSAvoidinfusion frequency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDuration of action of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the therapeutic approach by combining two different mechanisms: eculizumab (an anti-C5 antibody) and iRNA compositions (RNA interference agents). This combination allows for reduced dosing frequency and cost while maintaining therapeutic effectiveness, as the iRNA component provides sustained inhibition of C5 expression

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The iRNA compositions perform preliminary action by inhibiting C5 gene transcription before eculizumab needs to be administered. This preemptive inhibition of C5 expression reduces the frequency of required eculizumab infusions, as the iRNA provides sustained suppression of the target gene

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The iRNA compositions significantly inhibit C5 expression, reducing protein levels and associated symptoms, thereby decreasing the required dosage and frequency of eculizumab administration, offering a more cost-effective and convenient treatment option.

Implementation Method 1

iRNA compositions which effect the RNA-induced silencing complex (RlSC)-mediated cleavage of RNA transcripts of a C5 gene

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRNA interference (RNAi):

Data Source

PatentEP3194596A1Complement component c5 irna compositions and methods of use thereof
Publication Date: 2017.07.26 ALNYLAM PHARMACEUTICALS INC

AI summary

The invention relates to iRNA, e.g., double- stranded ribonucleic acid (dsRNA), compositions targeting the complement component C5 gene, and methods of using such iRNA, e.g., dsRNA, compositions to inhibit expression of C5 and to treat subjects having a complement component C5-associated disease, e.g., paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria.