SnoRNA Sequences Modulate Gene Expression to Extend Lifespan
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current tools for addressing aging mechanisms are insufficient in delaying the aging process and combating its harmful effects, despite increased human life expectancy and medical advancements.
Innovation Solution
The use of specific small nucleolar RNA (snoRNA) sequences, such as snoRNA:Ψ28S-1153, which are involved in mechanisms of aging, to increase stress resistance and treat age-related diseases by modulating gene expression and splicing, thereby extending lifespan and improving healthspan.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If current tools for addressing aging mechanisms are used, then medical treatment can be provided, but the ability to delay aging process and combat harmful effects is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and utilizes specific snoRNA sequences (such as snoRNA:Ψ28S-1153) from natural biological systems as therapeutic agents. By isolating these particular RNA sequences that are involved in aging mechanisms, the invention creates a targeted intervention tool that addresses the insufficiency of current aging treatment options while maintaining biological compatibility and effectiveness.
2Duration of action of moving object
If snoRNA sequences are used to modulate gene expression and splicing, then lifespan and healthspan are extended, but the complexity of the therapeutic mechanism increases
Solution Approach 1:
The snoRNA sequences act as intermediary molecules that mediate between the therapeutic intervention and the aging process. These RNA sequences specifically bind to target mRNA molecules and modulate their splicing patterns, thereby influencing gene expression in a controlled manner. This intermediary mechanism allows for precise control over the biological processes affecting lifespan and healthspan, reducing the overall system complexity compared to direct genetic modification approaches.
3Reliability
If caloric restriction is implemented to extend lifespan, then aging effects are reduced, but the ease of operation becomes difficult as strict diet adherence is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/dietary intervention of caloric restriction with a molecular/biochemical intervention using snoRNA sequences. Instead of requiring behavioral changes and strict diet adherence, the therapy uses specific RNA molecules that directly interact with aging-related gene pathways. This substitution transforms a complex behavioral intervention into a simpler molecular therapy that achieves similar anti-aging effects without the operational difficulties of maintaining restrictive diets.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention concerns the use of particular RNA sequences as a medicament. More precisely, it concerns the use of small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs) which the inventor has shown to be involved in the mechanisms of aging. The snoRNAs of the invention can be used in particular to increase the stress resistance of a subject and to fight against the harmful effects of aging, typically for preventing or treating a degenerative disease, a laminopathy, diabetes, obesity or a cancer and, more generally, to prolong the lifespan of a subject. The snoRNAs of the invention can also be used in the treatment of infertility. The invention further relates to vectors, cells, transgenic animals and compositions capable of expressing an snoRNA of the invention, and methods using any of the above products of the invention as a tool for identification of a molecule active in the prevention or treatment of a pathology, abnormality or disorder linked to a mechanism of aging.