Targeted Exon Inclusion Molecules for Correcting mRNA Mis-Splicing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current technologies are less effective in targeted inclusion methods for alternative splicing, particularly in inhibiting splicing mechanisms to correct mis-splicing of specific RNA targets.

Innovation Solution

Development of a targeted exon inclusion molecule comprising an optimized effect domain of an RNA-binding protein and an RNA-targeting moiety, which can be used to generate molecules that facilitate the production of wild-type protein to treat diseases.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If blunt approaches of inhibiting splicing mechanisms by targeted destruction or steric inhibition of splicing signals are used, then alternative exon skipping can be achieved, but targeted exon inclusion does not function effectively

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveeffectiveness of targeted exon inclusionVSAvoidsimplicity of approach
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary molecule (small molecule compound) that mediates between the splicing machinery and the pre-mRNA target. This small molecule acts as a positive modulator that binds to splicing regulatory elements and promotes exon inclusion, rather than directly destroying or sterically blocking splicing signals. The intermediary approach enables effective targeted exon inclusion by recruiting endogenous splicing factors to the target site through the small molecule bridge.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If positive modulators for targeted exon inclusion are developed, then mis-splicing correction can be achieved, but the molecular complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecorrection of mis-splicingVSAvoidmolecular structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent utilizes parameter changes in the small molecule compound's chemical structure to modulate its binding affinity and specificity for different splicing regulatory elements. By adjusting molecular parameters such as functional groups, stereochemistry, and molecular weight, the small molecule can be optimized to promote exon inclusion with high specificity. This approach corrects mis-splicing through controlled molecular interactions rather than complex multi-component systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS20250289857A1Alternative splicing enhancer molecules
Publication Date: 2025.09.18 RGT UNIV OF CALIFORNIA
  • US20250289857A1 patent drawing
  • US20250289857A1 patent drawing
  • US20250289857A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Provided herein is a molecule for use in directing splicing event. More specifically, provided herein is a molecule for use in targeted exon inclusion during mRNA splicing, along with compositions and methods of using the same.