FDA Recognizes SiSaf's siRNA Therapy, SIS-101-ADO, for Autosomal Dominant Osteopetrosis Treatment
In a noteworthy development in the pharmaceutical industry, SiSaf Ltd, a renowned RNA delivery and therapeutics firm, recently announced that the U.S. FDA has granted Orphan Drug Designation and Rare Pediatric Disease Designation to its novel siRNA therapeutic, SIS-101-ADO, for the treatment of Autosomal Dominant Osteopetrosis Type 2 (ADO2).
These designations signal a significant milestone, not only for SiSaf but also for the broader scientific community, as they are keenly exploring the potential of RNA interference technology. It is also a glimmer of hope for patients suffering from ADO2, a rare skeletal disorder for which there are currently no approved treatments or ongoing clinical trials.
How Does RNA Interference Work?
To comprehend the potential of SIS-101-ADO, one needs to understand the basic working mechanism of RNA interference. This biological process involves the use of small interfering RNA (siRNA) molecules that can downregulate or suppress the expression of specific genes. In the case of SIS-101-ADO, siRNA is used to suppress the expression of CLCN7, a mutant gene associated with ADO2. This gene is typically expressed by osteoclasts and other cell types responsible for the disease. By suppressing its expression, the RNA therapy aims to restore bone mass and quality to nearly normal levels.
The Role of Targeted RNA Delivery
SiSaf's proprietary Bio-Courier technology, which forms a crucial part of SIS-101-ADO, addresses the challenges associated with targeted RNA delivery. It builds on lipid nanoparticle technology by adding silicon for structural integrity and durability, resulting in nanoparticles with improved RNA loading capacity and protection from hydrolysis. This enables the efficient transfection and controlled release of the oligonucleotide payload, or the siRNA, to the targeted cells, in this case, osteoclasts and other cells expressing the mutant CLCN7 gene.
The Bio-Courier technology's versatility is achieved by modifying the particle's size, surface charge, and surface ligands, allowing it to target the desired site of drug action effectively. This kind of precision is particularly important in conditions like ADO2, where targeted gene suppression can potentially translate into significant patient benefits.
The FDA's recognition of SIS-101-ADO and the underlying RNA interference technology reinforces the potential of RNA-based therapies in managing a wide range of medical conditions. As SiSaf prepares for first-in-human clinical trials for SIS-101-ADO, it's evident that this groundbreaking RNA therapy could well pave the way for new treatment options for rare bone and skeletal diseases.
