Computational Design of siRNA Targeting Homo sapiens HER2 Splice Variant mRNA: A Potential Strategy for Breast Cancer Intervention

Abstract

This research focuses on an innovative approach utilizing in silico methods to design small interfering RNA (siRNA) targeting the HER2 splice variant mRNA in Homo sapiens. HER2 is known to be overexpressed in certain types of breast cancer, contributing to tumor progression and poor prognosis. By designing siRNA molecules that can specifically bind to and degrade HER2 mRNA, this study aims to reduce HER2 protein levels, thereby hindering the growth and spread of breast cancer cells. The in-silico design process involves identifying optimal siRNA sequences that maximize target specificity and minimize off-target effects, which is crucial for potential therapeutic applications. This approach represents a promising step towards personalized medicine in the treatment of breast cancer, offering a targeted strategy to combat this variant associated with aggressive disease. The methodology comprises the RNA computational tools used for the design, the selection criteria for siRNA candidates, and the potential implications of this research in a clinical setting. The resulting outcomes are 2D and 3D siRNA designs that could potentially silence HER2 mRNA through an in-silico approach. The leads were generated using a de novo modeling approach, with no existing template available in GenBank. Moreover, it is concluded that computational tools can generate sufficiently stable 2D and 3D RNA models that could be advanced for further molecular simulation studies. The benefit of this outcome is that it facilitates better preparation for wet laboratory experiments in siRNA assays, with future implementation in vivo and clinical trial settings.