A modified polyriboinosinic-polyribocytidylic acid complex that induces interferon in primates

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Biochemistry
• Virology

Background:

• Polyriboinosinic-polyribocytidylic acid (poly I-poly C) is a synthetic viral RNA mimic.
• Poly I-poly C is known to induce interferon but is susceptible to serum hydrolysis.
• Enhancing the stability of poly I-poly C could improve its therapeutic potential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To prepare and characterize a novel complex of poly I-poly C with poly-L-lysine and carboxymethylcellulose.
• To evaluate the stability and interferon-inducing capacity of this new complex in primate models.

Main Methods:

• Preparation of a poly I-poly C complex with poly-L-lysine and carboxymethylcellulose.
• Assessment of resistance to hydrolysis by primate serum.
• Measurement of thermal denaturation temperature.
• Induction of serum interferon levels in monkeys and chimpanzees.

Main Results:

• The poly I-poly C complex exhibited 5-10 times greater resistance to primate serum hydrolysis compared to native poly I-poly C.
• The complex demonstrated a thermal denaturation temperature approximately 40°C higher than poly I-poly C.
• Significant serum interferon levels were induced in monkeys and chimpanzees by the complex, while poly I-poly C alone did not.

Conclusions:

• The novel poly I-poly C complex offers superior stability against enzymatic degradation.
• This enhanced stability translates to a potent interferon induction capability in vivo.
• The developed complex represents a promising candidate for antiviral therapies.