Potential of siRNA in COVID-19 therapy: Emphasis on in silico design and nanoparticles based delivery

Small interfering RNA (siRNA)-mediated mRNA degradation approach have imparted its eminence against several difficult-to-treat genetic disorders and other allied diseases. Viral outbreaks and resulting pandemics have repeatedly threatened public health and questioned human preparedness at the forefront of drug design and biomedical readiness. During the recent pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2, mRNA-based vaccination strategies have paved the way for a new era of RNA therapeutics. RNA Interference (RNAi) based approach using small interfering RNA may complement clinical management of the COVID-19. RNA Interference approach will primarily work by restricting the synthesis of the proteins required for viral replication, thereby hampering viral cellular entry and trafficking by targeting host as well as protein factors. Despite promising benefits, the stability of small interfering RNA in the physiological environment is of grave concern as well as site-directed targeted delivery and evasion of the immune system require immediate attention. In this regard, nanotechnology offers viable solutions for these challenges. The review highlights the potential of small interfering RNAs targeted toward specific regions of the viral genome and the features of nanoformulations necessary for the entrapment and delivery of small interfering RNAs. In silico design of small interfering RNA for different variants of SARS-CoV-2 has been discussed. Various nanoparticles as promising carriers of small interfering RNAs along with their salient properties, including surface functionalization, are summarized. This review will help tackle the real-world challenges encountered by the in vivo delivery of small interfering RNAs, ensuring a safe, stable, and readily available drug candidate for efficient management of SARS-CoV-2 in the future.

Automated summary

The use of small interfering RNA (siRNA) in mRNA degradation has shown its potential in treating difficult-to-treat genetic disorders and related diseases. The recent COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of mRNA-based vaccination strategies and RNA interference (RNAi) using siRNA as a complementary approach for managing the disease. However, challenges such as the stability of siRNA in the physiological environment, targeted delivery, and evasion of the immune system need to be addressed. Nanotechnology offers solutions to these challenges through the design of siRNA targeted towards specific regions of the viral genome and the development of nanoformulations for efficient delivery. This review provides insights into the potential of siRNA and nanotechnology in managing SARS-CoV-2, and discusses in silico design and nanoparticle carriers for siRNA.