LNP-siVIRMA

LNP-siVIRMA is a therapeutic candidate consisting of lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) encapsulating a small interfering RNA (siRNA) that targets VIRMA (also known as KIAA1429). VIRMA is a critical component of the m6A methyltransferase complex, which mediates N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA modification. In multiple myeloma (MM), VIRMA is epigenetically deregulated and overexpressed, correlating with poor prognosis. LNP-siVIRMA works by silencing VIRMA expression, which reduces global m6A levels and disrupts the epitranscriptomic regulation of genes involved in the cell cycle, apoptosis, and mitochondrial function. This results in G1 cell cycle arrest, reduced NF-κB signaling, and impaired mitochondrial respiration, leading to inhibited tumor growth. The therapy was developed by researchers at CIMA Universidad de Navarra.