Inhibition of Glycogen Synthase II with RNAi Prevents Liver Injury in Mouse Models of Glycogen Storage Diseases

Natalie Pursell
Dicerna Pharmaceuticals
January 1, 2018
Mol Ther
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29784585

This article is currently being updated. View its version on PubMed.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29784585

Research summary

This study evaluates the therapeutic potential of RNA interference (RNAi) targeting hepatic glycogen synthase 2 (Gys2) in mouse models of glycogen storage diseases (GSDs). Using GalNAc-conjugated and lipid nanoparticle-formulated small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) to silence Gys2 expression, the researchers observed significant reductions in hepatic glycogen accumulation, hepatomegaly, fibrosis, and nodule development in GSD III (Agl⁻/⁻) mice. Additionally, in a GSD Ia (L-G6pc⁻/⁻) mouse model, Gys2 silencing led to decreased glycogen and lipid accumulation, reduced liver enzyme levels, and ameliorated liver pathology. These findings suggest that hepatic Gys2 inhibition via RNAi could be a viable therapeutic strategy to prevent liver complications associated with hepatic GSDs.

Key outcome of the study

RNAi-mediated silencing of Gys2 effectively reduces hepatic glycogen and lipid accumulation, preventing liver injury and fibrosis in mouse models of GSD III and GSD Ia.

Model

GSD III (Agl⁻/⁻) and GSD Ia (L-G6pc⁻/⁻) mouse models, developed by constitutive deletion of the Agl and liver-specific deletion of the G6pc genes, respectively, to mimic human GSD III and GSD Ia conditions.

TARGET:
Gys2
Synonyms:
Glycogen Synthase 2

Keywords

Glycogen storage disease, Liver fibrosis, RNA interference, Glycogen metabolism, Hepatic steatosis

Technical specifications

Constitutive Knockout models, Agl gene deletion, Liver-specific G6pc deletion, siRNA therapy, GalNAc and lipid nanoparticle delivery systems

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