Custom Mitochondrial Targeting mRNA Synthesis Service
Introduction
Mitochondria are vital organelles, often referred to as the "powerhouses of the cell," critical for energy production, metabolism, and cell survival. Dysfunctional mitochondria are implicated in a wide range of diseases, including neurodegenerative disorders, metabolic syndromes, and cancer. Precisely delivering therapeutic or research molecules to these organelles has historically been a significant challenge.
Creative Biolabs' Custom Mitochondrial Targeting mRNA Synthesis accelerates research and drug discovery via advanced in vitro transcription and precise targeting sequences, overcoming challenges in mitochondrial delivery and protein expression optimization.
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Custom Mitochondrial Targeting mRNA Synthesis
Mitochondrial Targeting mRNA (Mito-mRNA) represents a cutting-edge approach in gene therapy and research, designed to overcome the challenges of delivering functional proteins to mitochondria. By fusing a specific Mitochondrial Targeting Sequence (MTS) to the coding region of a gene of interest, the resulting mRNA molecule gains the ability to be selectively transported to and translated at the mitochondrial surface. This ensures that the newly synthesized protein is directly imported into the mitochondria, allowing for precise functional restoration or modulation. A commonly utilized and highly effective MTS is the N-terminal 23 amino acids of cytochrome oxidase subunit 8 precursor protein (MSVLTPLLLRGLTGSARRLPVPR), which efficiently guides the mRNA-protein complex to its mitochondrial destination.
Fig.1 Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) core proteins and peripheral proteins, along with other factors, are jointly involved in the organization, stability, and communication of mtDNA.1
Workflow
Required Starting Materials: To initiate your project, we typically require:
- Target Gene Sequence: The full coding sequence of the protein you wish to express.
- Desired Mitochondrial Targeting Sequence (MTS): While we can provide standard MTS options (e.g., N-terminal 23 amino acids of cytochrome oxidase subunit 8 precursor protein), any specific or novel MTS you wish to incorporate should be provided.
- Specific Application Details: Information regarding your experimental model (e.g., cell lines, in vivo models) and the intended application (e.g., functional restoration, disease modeling, therapeutic development).
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Synthesis
We use a robust IVT platform: starting with a linearized DNA template, optimized reactions with quality reagents/enzymes yield full-length, high-fidelity mRNA. Controlled conditions enable modified nucleotide incorporation to boost stability, translation efficiency, and reduce immunogenicity.
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Purification
Creative Biolabs uses advanced chromatography and proprietary protocols for high purity, ensuring clean, safe, efficacious Mito-mRNA for sensitive applications.
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Quality Control
- Integrity Assessment: Gel electrophoresis and capillary electrophoresis are used to verify the full-length nature and absence of degradation.
- Concentration Determination: Spectrophotometric analysis accurately quantifies mRNA yield.
- Purity Analysis: Evaluation of dsRNA content, endotoxin levels, and other impurities to ensure safety and prevent off-target effects.
- Sequence Verification: Sanger sequencing confirms the exact sequence, including the MTS, ensuring accurate protein translation.
- Functional Validation (Optional): In vitro assays can be performed to confirm mitochondrial localization and expression of the target protein within relevant cell lines, providing empirical evidence of the mRNA's functional activity.
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Final Deliverables
- High-Purity Custom Mitochondrial Targeting mRNA: Optimized for your specific application.
- Comprehensive Quality Control Report: Detailing mRNA integrity, concentration, purity, and other relevant parameters.
- Sequence Verification Data: Confirmation of the accurate integration of your target gene and MTS.
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Estimated Timeframe
The typical timeframe for this service ranges from 2 to 5 weeks, depending on the complexity of the mRNA sequence, the specific modifications required, and the scope of quality control assays.
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What We Can Offer?
Tailored MTS Design & Optimization
Expert custom MTS design (including novel sequences) ensures optimal, specific mitochondrial protein delivery.
Gene Sequence Optimization for Mitochondrial Expression
Optimize coding sequences and UTRs to maximize expression/stability in mitochondria, accounting for translation duration and cellular constraints.
High-Yield, High-Purity IVT mRNA Synthesis
State-of-the-art IVT platform produces high-quality, full-length mRNA, free from research/therapeutic-hindering impurities.
Comprehensive Quality Control & Functional Validation
Stringent checks (integrity, concentration, purity, sequence) plus optional assays confirm mitochondrial localization and protein expression.
Expert Consultation & Post-Delivery Support
Experts guide project design and troubleshoot post-delivery, ensuring seamless workflow integration.
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FAQs
How is the mitochondrial targeting sequence designed for custom mRNA?
Mitochondrial targeting sequences (MTS) are selected from natural mitochondrial protein MTSs, typically 10-70 amino acids rich in positive and hydrophobic residues. Computational tools predict targeting efficiency via charge, hydrophobicity, and secondary structure. MTS is incorporated into the 5'-end of the mRNA coding region during DNA template design for IVT.
What modifications are crucial for mitochondrial-targeting mRNA stability and function?
Modified nucleotides like N1-methylpseudouridine reduce mRNA immunogenicity, critical for avoiding immune responses during cytosolic traversal. Advanced 5' capping (e.g., CleanCap) stabilizes mRNA and boosts translation efficiency. A well-designed, optimized poly(A) tail (around 120-150 nt) enhances stability during synthesis, delivery, and mitochondrial targeting.
How can we ensure efficient delivery of custom mitochondrial-targeting mRNA into cells?
Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) are optimized for mitochondrial-targeting mRNA via adjusted ratios of ionizable lipids, helper lipids, cholesterol, and PEG-lipids, enhancing outer mitochondrial membrane affinity. Mitochondrial-penetrating peptides conjugated to mRNA or delivery vehicles also boost uptake via specific membrane interactions.
How do you verify the successful targeting of custom mRNA to mitochondria?
Fluorescence microscopy: Label mRNA with fluorescent tags, transfect cells, and co-stain with mitochondrial dyes (e.g., MitoTracker) to observe colocalization.
Sub-cellular fractionation: Fractionate cells into cytosolic, mitochondrial, and nuclear parts, then use RT-qPCR to detect mRNA in mitochondrial fractions, with higher levels indicating successful targeting.
Creative Biolabs' Custom Mitochondrial Targeting mRNA Synthesis service offers a precise and powerful tool for advancing mitochondrial research and developing targeted therapeutics. By enabling the direct expression of proteins within mitochondria, we empower scientists to explore complex biological questions and address critical unmet medical needs in areas ranging from neurodegeneration to cancer. Our commitment to quality, combined with our deep scientific expertise, ensures that you receive highly pure, functionally active mRNA tailored to your exact specifications.
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References
- Criscuolo, Daniela, et al. "Targeting mitochondrial protein expression as a future approach for cancer therapy." Frontiers in Oncology 11 (2021): 797265. DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.797265. Distributed under Open Access license CC BY 4.0, without modification.