Quantitative profiling of cochlear synaptosomal proteins in cisplatin-induced synaptic dysfunction

The disruption of ribbon synapses in the cochlea impairs the transmission of auditory signals from the cochlear sensory receptor cells to the auditory cortex. Although cisplatin-induced loss of ribbon synapses is well-documented, and studies have reported nitration of cochlear proteins after cisplatin treatment, yet the underlying mechanism of cochlear synaptopathy is not fully understood. This study tests the hypothesis that cisplatin treatment alters the abundance of cochlear synaptosomal proteins, and selective targeting of nitrative stress prevents the associated synaptic dysfunction. Auditory brainstem responses of mice treated with cisplatin showed a reduction in amplitude and an increase in latency of wave I, indicating cisplatin-induced synaptic dysfunction. The mass spectrometry analysis of cochlear synaptosomal proteins identified 102 proteins that decreased in abundance and 249 that increased in abundance after cisplatin treatment. Pathway analysis suggested that the dysregulated proteins were involved in calcium binding, calcium ion regulation, synapses, and endocytosis pathways. Inhibition of nitrative stress by co-treatment with MnTBAP, a peroxynitrite scavenger, attenuated cisplatin-induced changes in the abundance of 27 proteins. Furthermore, MnTBAP co-treatment prevented the cisplatin-induced decrease in the amplitude and increase in the latency of wave I. Together, these findings suggest a potential role of oxidative/nitrative stress in cisplatin-induced cochlear synaptic dysfunction.

Antioxidant MnTBAP does not protect adult mice from neonatal hyperoxic lung injury

BACKGROUND

Oxygen therapy and mechanical ventilation are important predisposing factors for the development of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), leading to increased morbidity and mortality in premature infants. Oxygen toxicity mediated by reactive oxygen species (ROS) may play an important part in the development of BPD. We studied the effects of MnTBAP, a catalytic antioxidant on airway responsiveness and alveolar simplification in adult mice following neonatal hyperoxia.

METHODS

Mice litters were randomized to 85 %O2 or room air (RA) on D3 for 12 days to receive either MnTBAP (10 mg/kg/d) or saline intraperitoneally. Methacholine challenge (MCC) performed at 8 and 12 weeks of age by whole-body plethysmography to assess airway reactivity. Alveolarization quantified on lung sections by radial alveolar count (RAC) and mean linear intercept (MLI). Cell counts assessed from bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) performed at 15 weeks.

RESULTS

Mice exposed to hyperoxia and MnTBAP (OXMN) had significantly higher airway reactivity post-MCC at 8 weeks compared to RA and O2 groups. At 12 weeks, airway reactivity was higher post-MCC in both hyperoxia and OXMN groups. MnTBAP did not attenuate hyperoxia-induced airway reactivity in adult mice. Hyperoxia exposed mice demonstrated large and distended alveoli on histopathology at 2 and 15 weeks. MnTBAP did not ameliorate hyperoxia-induced lung injury as assessed by RAC/MLI. Absolute lymphocyte count was significantly higher in BAL in the hyperoxia and OXMN groups.

CONCLUSIONS

MnTBAP, a catalytic antioxidant, did not afford protection from hyperoxia-induced lung injury in adult mice.

Hemin attenuated oxidative stress and inflammation to improve wound healing in diabetic rats

Oxidative stress and persistent inflammation play crucial role in the progression of diabetic wound complications. Hemeoxgenase-1 (HO-1) by degrading hemin has been shown to display anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Further, hemin is a potent HO-1 inducer. Thus, the current study was aimed to evaluate the effect of topical application of hemin on diabetic wound in rats. Four hundred square millimeter open excision wound were created 2 weeks after induction of diabetes with single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (60 mg/kg), and the diabetic rats were divided into three groups namely diabetic control, hemin, and tin protoporphyrin (SnPPIX). Ointment base, hemin (0.5% in ointment base), and SnPPIX (0.5% in ointment base) were applied topically to wounded area in diabetic control, hemin, and SnPPIX group rats, respectively, twice daily for 19 days. Hemin significantly increased the wound contraction in comparison to control and SnPPIX-treated rats. Time-dependent analysis revealed significant increase in anti-oxidants with concomitant decrease in oxidants in hemin-treated rats as compared to diabetic control rats. Further, mRNA expression decreased for inflammatory cytokine and increased for anti-inflammatory cytokine in hemin group as compared to diabetic control rats. Expression of HO-1 also increased in hemin group as compared to diabetic control rats. However, SnPPIX group results were in disagreement with results of hemin which is clearly reflected in histopathology. Results indicate the ability of hemin to accelerate wound healing in diabetic rats by combating inflammation and oxidative stress probably via HO-1.

MnSOD is implicated in accelerated wound healing upon Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT): A case in point for MnSOD mimetics as adjuvants for wound management

Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT), a widely used modality in the management of surgical and trauma wounds, offers clear benefits over conventional wound healing strategies. Despite the wide-ranging effects ascribed to NPWT, the precise molecular mechanisms underlying the accelerated healing supported by NPWT remains poorly understood. Notably, cellular redox status-a product of the balance between cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and anti-oxidant defense systems-plays an important role in wound healing and dysregulation of redox homeostasis has a profound effect on wound healing. Here we investigated potential links between the use of NPWT and the regulation of antioxidant mechanisms. Using patient samples and a rodent model of acute injury, we observed a significant accumulation of MnSOD protein as well as higher enzymatic activity in tissues upon NPWT. As a proof of concept and to outline the important role of SOD activity in wound healing, we replaced NPWT by the topical application of a MnSOD mimetic, Mn(III) meso-tetrakis(N-ethylpyridinium-2-yl)porphyrin (MnTE-2-PyP5+, MnE, BMX-010, AEOl10113) in the rodent model. We observed that MnE is a potent wound healing enhancer as it appears to facilitate the formation of new tissue within the wound bed and consequently advances wound closure by two days, compared to the non-treated animals. Taken together, these results show for the first time a link between NPWT and regulation of antioxidant mechanism through the maintenance of MnSOD activity. Additionally this discovery outlined the potential role of MnSOD mimetics as topical agents enhancing wound healing.

Polymer-free cubosomes for simultaneous bioimaging and photodynamic action of photosensitizers in melanoma skin cancer cells

We designed novel polymer-free cubic bicontinuous liquid crystalline dispersions (cubosomes) using monoolein as molecular building block, phospholipids as stabilizers, propylene glycol as hydrotrope. Their kinetic stability was evaluated by analysing the backscattering profiles upon ageing, and the most stable formulation was chosen as potential photosensitizers delivery vehicle for photodynamic therapy (PDT) of human skin melanoma cells. Morphological and topological features of such formulation alternatively loaded with Chlorin e6 or meso-Tetraphenylporphine-Mn(III) chloride photosensitizing dyes were investigated by cryo-TEM, DLS, and SAXS. Bioimaging studies demonstrated that Me45 and MeWo cell lines effectively internalized these cubosomes formulations. Particularly, photodynamic activity experiments proved both the very low cytotoxicity of the cubosomes formulation loaded with Chlorin e6 dye in the "dark" condition, and its significant cytotoxic effect after photoirradiation. The toxic effect recorded when the photosensitizer was encapsulated within the cubosomes was shown to be one order of magnitude higher than that caused by the free photosensitizer. This is the first report of biocompatible polymer-free cubosomes for potential application in both PDT and bioimaging of skin malignant melanoma.

pH-Dependent Assembly of Porphyrin-Silica Nanocomposites and Their Application in Targeted Photodynamic Therapy

Structurally controlled nanoparticles, such as core-shell nanocomposite particles by combining two or more compositions, possess enhanced or new functionalities that benefited from the synergistic coupling of the two components. Here we report new nanocomposite particles with self-assembled porphyrin arrays as the core surrounded by amorphous silica as the shell. The synthesis of such nanocomposite nanoparticles was conducted through a combined surfactant micelle confined self-assembly and silicate sol-gel process using optically active porphyrin as a functional building block. Depending on kinetic conditions, these particles exhibit structure and function at multiple length scales and locations. At the molecular scale, the porphyrins as the building blocks provide well-defined macromolecular structures for noncovalent self-assembly and unique chemistry for high-yield generation of singlet oxygen for photodynamic therapy (PDT). On the nanoscale, controlled noncovalent interactions of the porphyrin building block result in an extensive self-assembled porphyrin network that enables efficient energy transfer and impressive fluorescence for cell labeling, evidenced by absorption and photoluminescence spectra. Finally, the thin silicate shell on the nanoparticle surface allows easy functionalization, and the resultant targeting porphyrin-silica nanocomposites can selectively destroy tumor cells upon receiving light irradiation.

The Impact of Mid-Treatment MRI on Defining Boost Volumes in the Radiation Treatment of Glioblastoma Multiforme

Radiation therapy is a central modality in the treatment of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). Integral to adequate radiation therapy delivery is the appropriate determination of tumor volume and extent at the time treatment is being delivered. As a matter of routine practice, radiation therapy treatment fields are designed based on tumor volumes evident on preoperative or immediate post-operative MRIs; another MRI is generally not obtained for planning boost fields. In some instances the time interval from surgery to radiotherapy initiation is up to 5 weeks and the boost or “cone-down phase” commences 4–5 weeks later. The contrast enhanced T1 MRI may not be a totally reliable indicator of active tumor, especially in regions where such blood-brain barrier breakdown has not occurred. Moreover, these volumes may change during the course of treatment. This may lead to a geographic miss when mid-treatment boost volumes are designed based on a pre-radiotherapy MRI. The goal of this study is to examine how a mid-treatment MRI impacts the delineation and definition of the boost volume in GBM patients in comparison to the pre-treatment MRI scan, particularly when the tumor-specific agent Motexafin-Gadolinium is used.

Neurobehavioral radiation mitigation to standard brain cancer therapy regimens by Mn(III) n-butoxyethylpyridylporphyrin-based redox modifier

Combinations of radiotherapy (RT) and chemotherapy have shown efficacy toward brain tumors. However, therapy-induced oxidative stress can damage normal brain tissue, resulting in both progressive neurocognitive loss and diminished quality of life. We have recently shown that MnTnBuOE-2-PyP(5+) (Mn(III)meso-tetrakis(N-n-butoxyethylpyridinium -2-yl)porphyrin) rescued RT-induced white matter damage in cranially-irradiated mice. Radiotherapy is not used in isolation for treatment of brain tumors; temozolomide is the standard-of-care for adult glioblastoma, whereas cisplatin is often used for treatment of pediatric brain tumors. Therefore, we evaluated the brain radiation mitigation ability of MnTnBuOE-2-PyP(5+) after either temozolomide or cisplatin was used singly or in combination with 10 Gy RT. MnTnBuOE-2-PyP(5+) accumulated in brains at low nanomolar levels. Histological and neurobehavioral testing showed a drastic decrease (1) of axon density in the corpus callosum and (2) rotorod and running wheel performance in the RT only treatment group, respectively. MnTnBuOE-2-PyP(5+) completely rescued this phenotype in irradiated animals. In the temozolomide groups, temozolomide/ RT treatment resulted in further decreased rotorod responses over RT alone. Again, MnTnBuOE-2-PyP(5+) treatment rescued the negative effects of both temozolomide ± RT on rotorod performance. While the cisplatin-treated groups did not give similar results as the temozolomide groups, inclusion of MnTnBuOE-2-PyP(5+) did not negatively affect rotorod performance. Additionally, MnTnBuOE-2-PyP(5+) sensitized glioblastomas to either RT ± temozolomide in flank tumor models. Mice treated with both MnTnBuOE-2-PyP(5+) and radio-/chemo-therapy herein demonstrated brain radiation mitigation. MnTnBuOE-2-PyP(5+) may well serve as a normal tissue radio-/chemo-mitigator adjuvant therapy to standard brain cancer treatment regimens. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 57:372-381, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

MnTE-2-PyP reduces prostate cancer growth and metastasis by suppressing p300 activity and p300/HIF-1/CREB binding to the promoter region of the PAI-1 gene

To improve radiation therapy-induced quality of life impairments for prostate cancer patients, the development of radio-protectors is needed. Our previous work has demonstrated that MnTE-2-PyP significantly protects urogenital tissues from radiation-induced damage. So, in order for MnTE-2-PyP to be used clinically as a radio-protector, it is fully necessary to explore the effect of MnTE-2-PyP on human prostate cancer progression. MnTE-2-PyP inhibited prostate cancer growth in the presence and absence of radiation and also inhibited prostate cancer migration and invasion. MnTE-2-PyP altered p300 DNA binding, which resulted in the inhibition of HIF-1β and CREB signaling pathways. Accordingly, we also found that MnTE-2-PyP reduced the expression of three genes regulated by HIF-1β and/or CREB: TGF-β2, FGF-1 and PAI-1. Specifically, MnTE-2-PyP decreased p300 complex binding to a specific HRE motif within the PAI-1 gene promoter region, suppressed H3K9 acetylation, and consequently, repressed PAI-1 expression. Mechanistically, less p300 transcriptional complex binding is not due to the reduction of binding between p300 and HIF-1/CREB transcription factors, but through inhibiting the binding of HIF-1/CREB transcription factors to DNA. Our data provide an in depth mechanism by which MnTE-2-PyP reduces prostate cancer growth and metastasis, which validates the clinical use of MnTE-2-PyP as a radio-protector to enhance treatment outcomes in prostate cancer radiotherapy.

Direct and Repeated Clinical Measurements of pO2 for Enhancing Cancer Therapy and Other Applications

The first systematic multi-center study of the clinical use of EPR oximetry has begun, with funding as a PPG from the NCI. Using particulate oxygen sensitive EPR, materials in three complementary forms (India Ink, "OxyChips", and implantable resonators) the clinical value of the technique will be evaluated. The aims include using repeated measurement of tumor pO2 to monitor the effects of treatments on tumor pO2, to use the measurements to select suitable subjects for the type of treatment including the use of hyperoxic techniques, and to provide data that will enable existing clinical techniques which provide data relevant to tumor pO2 but which cannot directly measure it to be enhanced by determining circumstances where they can give dependable information about tumor pO2.

Redox-Responsive Porphyrin-Based Polysilsesquioxane Nanoparticles for Photodynamic Therapy of Cancer Cells

The development of stimulus-responsive photosensitizer delivery systems that carry a high payload of photosensitizers is of great importance in photodynamic therapy. In this study, redox-responsive polysilsesquioxane nanoparticles (PSilQNPs) built by a reverse microemulsion approach using 5,10,15,20-tetrakis(carboxyphenyl) porphyrin (TCPP) silane derivatives as building blocks, were successfully fabricated. The structural properties of TCPP-PSilQNPs were characterized by dynamic light scattering (DLS)/ζ-potential, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The photophysical properties were determined by UV-vis and fluorescence spectroscopy. The quantity of singlet oxygen generated in solution was measured using 1,3-diphenylisobenzofuran. The redox-responsive release of TCPP molecules was successfully demonstrated in solution in the presence of a reducing agent. The internalization of TCPP-PSilQNPs in cancer cells was investigated using laser scanning confocal microscopy. Phototoxicity experiments in vitro showed that the redox-responsive TCPP-PSilQNPs exhibited an improved phototherapeutic effect on cervical cancer cells compared to a non-responsive TCPP-PSilQNP control material.

Marked protection against acute renal and hepatic injury after nitrited myoglobin + tin protoporphyrin administration

The phenomenon known as renal "ischemic preconditioning," whereby an initial ischemic insult induces resistance against subsequent kidney damage, has been well established in the experimental literature. However, a clinically applicable way to safely recapitulate this state has not been defined. We hypothesized that a unique combination of agents (nitrited myoglobin [N-Mgb] + tin protoporphyrin [SnPP]) can achieve these ends safely and synergistically, increasing cytoprotective proteins (eg, heme oxygenase 1 [HO-1], interleukin 10 [IL-10], and haptoglobin) in kidney cells. To test this hypothesis, CD-1 mice received 1 mg of N-Mgb and 1 μmol of SnPP, either alone or in combination. Renal cortical HO-1, haptoglobin, and IL-10 gene expressions (messenger RNA [mRNA], protein levels) were determined 4 and 18 hours later. Cytoresistance to 3 forms of acute kidney injury (AKI; glycerol-induced rhabdomyolysis, maleate nephrotoxicity, and postischemic AKI progression to chronic kidney disease [CKD]) was assessed. To ascertain whether cytoresistance might emerge in extrarenal organs, hepatic HO-1, IL-10, and haptoglobin levels were also measured, and resistance to 25 minutes of hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury and hepatotoxicity (intraperitoneal glycerol injection) was sought. N-Mgb + SnPP induced additive or synergistic increases in renal HO-1, haptoglobin, and IL-10 mRNA and protein levels (up to 20-fold) without inducing any apparent renal or extrarenal damage. After 18 hours of post-treatment, marked or complete protection against glycerol-induced AKI, maleate-induced AKI, and postischemic AKI progression to CKD had emerged. Combined N-Mgb + SnPP was more protective than either agent alone (assessed in glycerol model). N-Mgb + SnPP also upregulated cytoprotective pathways in liver and induced marked protection against both hepatic ischemia-reperfusion and toxic liver damage. In conclusion, we posit that "preconditioning" with combined administration of N-Mgb + SnPP represents a promising approach for protecting against diverse forms of renal and nonrenal (hepatic) forms of tissue damage.

A MALDI-MSI Approach to the Characterization of Radiation-Induced Lung Injury and Medical Countermeasure Development

Radiation-induced lung injury is highly complex and characterized by multiple pathologies, which occur over time and sporadically throughout the lung. This complexity makes biomarker investigations and medical countermeasure screenings challenging. Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI-MSI) has the ability to resolve differences spatially in molecular profiles within the lung following radiation exposure and can aid in biomarker identification and pharmaceutical efficacy investigations. MALDI-MSI was applied to the investigation of a whole-thorax lung irradiation model in non-human primates (NHP) for lipidomic analysis and medical countermeasure distribution.

Resveratrol ameliorates renal damage, increases expression of heme oxygenase-1, and has anti-complement, anti-oxidative, and anti-apoptotic effects in a murine model of membranous nephropathy

Background

Idiopathic membranous nephropathy (MN) is an autoimmune-mediated glomerulonephritis and a common cause of nephrotic syndrome in adults. There are limited available treatments for MN. We assessed the efficacy of resveratrol (RSV) therapy for treatment of MN in a murine model of this disease.

Methods

Murine MN was experimentally induced by daily subcutaneous administration of cationic bovine serum albumin, with phosphate-buffered saline used in control mice. MN mice were untreated or given RSV. Disease severity and pathogenesis was assessed by determination of metabolic and histopathology profiles, lymphocyte subsets, immunoglobulin production, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and production of heme oxygenase-1 (HO1).

Results

MN mice given RSV had significantly reduced proteinuria and a marked amelioration of glomerular lesions. RSV also significantly attenuated immunofluorescent staining of C3, although there were no changes of serum immunoglobulin levels or immunocomplex deposition in the kidneys. RSV treatment of MN mice also reduced the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), reduced cell apoptosis, and upregulated heme oxygenase 1 (HO1). Inhibition of HO1 with tin protoporphyrin IX partially reversed the renoprotective effects of RSV. The HO1 induced by RSV maybe via Nrf2 signaling.

Conclusion

Our results show that RSV increased the expression of HO1 and ameliorated the effects of membranous nephropathy in a mouse model due to its anti-complement, anti-oxidative, and anti-apoptotic effects. RSV appears to have potential as a treatment for MN.

Phase 1/2 trials of Temozolomide, Motexafin Gadolinium, and 60-Gy fractionated radiation for newly diagnosed supratentorial glioblastoma multiforme: final results of RTOG 0513

PURPOSE

The purpose of phase 1 was to determine the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) of motexafin gadolinium (MGd) given concurrently with temozolomide (TMZ) and radiation therapy (RT) in patients with newly diagnosed supratentorial glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). Phase 2 determined whether this combination improved overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) in GBM recursive partitioning analysis class III to V patients compared to therapies for recently published historical controls.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

Dose escalation in phase 1 progressed through 3 cohorts until 2 of 6 patients experienced dose-limiting toxicity or a dose of 5 mg/kg was reached. Once MTD was established, a 1-sided 1-sample log-rank test at significance level of .1 had 85% power to detect a median survival difference (13.69 vs 18.48 months) with 60 deaths over a 12-month accrual period and an additional 18 months of follow-up. OS and PFS were estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method.

RESULTS

In phase 1, 24 patients were enrolled. The MTD established was 5 mg/kg, given intravenously 5 days a week for the first 10 RT fractions, then 3 times a week for the duration of RT. The 7 patients enrolled in the third dose level and the 94 enrolled in phase 2 received this dose. Of these 101 patients, 87 were eligible and evaluable. Median survival time was 15.6 months (95% confidence interval [CI]: 12.9-17.6 months), not significantly different from that of the historical control (P=.36). Median PFS was 7.6 months (95% CI: 5.7-9.6 months). One patient (1%) experienced a grade 5 adverse event possibly related to therapy during the concurrent phase, and none experience toxicity during adjuvant TMZ therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment was well tolerated, but median OS did not reach improvement specified by protocol compared to historical control, indicating that the combination of standard RT with TMZ and MGd did not achieve a significant survival advantage.

Induction of haemeoxygenase-1 improves FFA-induced endothelial dysfunction in rat aorta

BACKGROUND

The induction of haemeoxygenase-1 (HO-1) exerts beneficial effects in the setting of endothelial dysfunction in obesity. High free fatty acid (FFA) levels are a common feature of obesity and are the primary cause of endothelial dysfunction. The objective of our study was to explore the effects of HO-1 induction on FFA-induced endothelial dysfunction in rats.

METHODS

Rats received FFA treatment with either cobalt protoporphyrin (CoPP) to induce HO-1 or stannous protoporphyrin (SnPP) to inhibit HO-1. Endothelial function was determined by measuring endothelium-dependent vasodilatation (EDV). Nitric oxide (NO) production, superoxide production and nuclear factor (NF)-κB expression in the aorta were each determined. The levels of adenosine monophosphate (AMP)-activated kinase (AMPK) and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) expression in endothelial cells were determined via Western blotting.

RESULTS

Induction of HO-1 by CoPP decreased circulating FFA, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein and malondialdehyde levels and increased serum adiponectin and glutathione levels compared with the FFA group (P<0.05). High FFA levels resulted in EDV impairment, which was improved by HO-1 induction (P<0.05). Induction of HO-1 increased NO levels and reduced aortic superoxide production and NF-κB expression compared with the FFA group. The FFA group exhibited decreased AMPK expression and eNOS phosphorylation, both of which were enhanced via HO-1 induction (P<0.05). The beneficial effects of CoPP on EDV were partially attenuated in vitro in the presence of inhibitors of AMPK, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K), and eNOS.

CONCLUSIONS

HO-1 induction with CoPP improves FFA-induced endothelial dysfunction in the rat aorta. The protective mechanism appears to be related to the activation of the AMPK-PI3K-eNOS pathway as a result of increased adiponectin levels as well as decreased inflammation and oxidative stress.

Mn porphyrin in combination with ascorbate acts as a pro-oxidant and mediates caspase-independent cancer cell death

Resistance to therapy-mediated apoptosis in inflammatory breast cancer, an aggressive and distinct subtype of breast cancer, was recently attributed to increased superoxide dismutase (SOD) expression, glutathione (GSH) content, and decreased accumulation of reactive species. In this study, we demonstrate the unique ability of two Mn(III) N-substituted pyridylporphyrin (MnP)-based SOD mimics (MnTE-2-PyP(5+) and MnTnBuOE-2-PyP(5+)) to catalyze oxidation of ascorbate, leading to the production of excessive levels of peroxide, and in turn cell death. The accumulation of peroxide, as a consequence of MnP+ascorbate treatment, was fully reversed by the administration of exogenous catalase, showing that hydrogen peroxide is essential for cell death. Cell death as a consequence of the action of MnP+ascorbate corresponded to decreases in GSH levels, prosurvival signaling (p-NF-κB, p-ERK1/2), and in expression of X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein, the most potent caspase inhibitor. Although markers of classical apoptosis were observed, including PARP cleavage and annexin V staining, administration of a pan-caspase inhibitor, Q-VD-OPh, did not reverse the observed cytotoxicity. MnP+ascorbate-treated cells showed nuclear translocation of apoptosis-inducing factor, suggesting the possibility of a mechanism of caspase-independent cell death. Pharmacological ascorbate has already shown promise in recently completed phase I clinical trials, in which its oxidation and subsequent peroxide formation was catalyzed by endogenous metalloproteins. The catalysis of ascorbate oxidation by an optimized metal-based catalyst (such as MnP) carries a large therapeutic potential as an anticancer agent by itself or in combination with other modalities such as radio- and chemotherapy.

Robust rat pulmonary radioprotection by a lipophilic Mn N-alkylpyridylporphyrin, MnTnHex-2-PyP(5+)

With the goal to enhance the distribution of cationic Mn porphyrins within mitochondria, the lipophilic Mn(III)meso-tetrakis(N-n-hexylpyridinium-2-yl)porphyrin, MnTnHex-2-PyP(5+) has been synthesized and tested in several different model of diseases, where it shows remarkable efficacy at as low as 50 µg/kg single or multiple doses. Yet, in a rat lung radioprotection study, at higher 0.6-1 mg/kg doses, due to its high accumulation and micellar character, it became toxic. To avoid the toxicity, herein the pulmonary radioprotection of MnTnHex-2-PyP(5+) was assessed at 50 µg/kg. Fischer rats were irradiated to their right hemithorax (28 Gy) and treated with 0.05 mg/kg/day of MnTnHex-2-PyP(5+) for 2 weeks by subcutaneously-implanted osmotic pumps, starting at 2 h post-radiation. The body weights and breathing frequencies were followed for 10 weeks post-radiation, when the histopathology and immunohistochemistry were assessed. Impact of MnTnHex-2-PyP(5+) on macrophage recruitment (ED-1), DNA oxidative damage (8-OHdG), TGF-β1, VEGF(A) and HIF-1α were measured. MnTnHex-2-PyP(5+) significantly decreased radiation-induced lung histopathological (H&E staining) and functional damage (breathing frequencies), suppressed oxidative stress directly (8-OHdG), or indirectly, affecting TGF-β1, VEGF (A) and HIF-1α pathways. The magnitude of the therapeutic effects is similar to the effects demonstrated under same experimental conditions with 120-fold higher dose of ~5000-fold less lipophilic Mn(III)meso-tetrakis(N-ethylpyridinium-2-yl)porphyrin, MnTE-2-PyP(5+).

A pilot study in rhesus macaques to assess the treatment efficacy of a small molecular weight catalytic metalloporphyrin antioxidant (AEOL 10150) in mitigating radiation-induced lung damage

The objective of this pilot study was to explore whether administration of a catalytic antioxidant, AEOL 10150 (C48H56C15MnN12), could reduce radiation-induced lung injury and improve overall survival when administered after 11.5 Gy of whole thorax lung irradiation in a non-human primate model. Thirteen animals were irradiated with a single exposure of 11.5 Gy, prescribed to midplane, and delivered with 6 MV photons at a dose rate of 0.8 Gy min. Beginning at 24 h post irradiation, the AEOL 10150 cohort (n = 7) received daily subcutaneous injections of the catalytic antioxidant at a concentration of 5 mg kg for a total of 4 wk. All animals received medical management, including dexamethasone, based on clinical signs during the planned 180-d in-life phase of the study. All decedent study animals were euthanized for failure to maintain saturation of peripheral oxygen > 88% on room air. Exposure of the whole thorax to 11.5 Gy resulted in radiation-induced lung injury in all animals. AEOL 10150, as administered in this pilot study, demonstrated potential efficacy as a mitigator against fatal radiation-induced lung injury. Treatment with the drug resulted in 28.6% survival following exposure to a radiation dose that proved to be 100% fatal in the control cohort (n = 6). Computed tomography scans demonstrated less quantitative radiographic injury (pneumonitis, fibrosis, effusions) in the AEOL 10150-treated cohort at day 60 post-exposure, and AEOL 10150-treated animals required less dexamethasone support during the in-life phase of the study. Analysis of serial plasma samples suggested that AEOL 10150 treatment led to lower relative transforming growth factor-Beta-1 levels when compared with the control animals. The results of this pilot study demonstrate that treatment with AEOL 10150 results in reduced clinical, radiographic, anatomic, and molecular evidence of radiation-induced lung injury and merits further study as a medical countermeasure against radiation-induced pulmonary injury.

Administration of heme arginate ameliorates murine type 2 diabetes independently of heme oxygenase activity

Amelioration of rodent type 2 diabetes by hemin has been linked to increased heme oxygenase (HO) activity, however alternative mechanisms have recently been proposed for its anti-diabetic effect. We sought to determine the anti-diabetic efficacy of heme arginate (HA), a clinically licensed preparation of heme, and whether its predominant mode of action is via increased HO activity. Intravenous administration of HA reduced hyperglycemia in diabetic (db/db) mice. Co-administration of the HO inhibitor stannous (IV) mesoporphyrin IX dichloride (SM) resulted unexpectedly in a further improvement in glycaemic control despite restoring HO activity to baseline levels. The anti-diabetic effects of HA±SM were associated with increased adiposity, increased serum adiponectin levels, reduced adipose tissue and islet inflammation and preservation of islet β-cell function. HO activity independent effects of HA on adipogenesis and β-cell inflammation were further confirmed in cell culture models using the 3T3-L1 pre-adipocyte and MIN6 β-cell lines, respectively. In conclusion, our work demonstrates that the heme component of HA ameliorates experimental type 2 diabetes by promoting metabolically favourable adipogenesis and preserving islet β-cell function, but this is not mediated via increased HO activity.

Late administration of Mn porphyrin-based SOD mimic enhances diabetic complications

Mn(III) N-alkylpyridylporphyrins (MnPs) have demonstrated protection in various conditions where increased production of reactive oxygen/reactive nitrogen species (ROS/RNS), is a key pathological factors. MnPs can produce both pro-oxidative and antioxidative effects depending upon the cellular redox environment that they encounter. Previously we reported (Free Radic. Res. 39: 81–8, 2005) that when the treatment started at the onset of diabetes, Mn(III) meso-tetrakis(N-methylpyridinium-2-yl)porphyrin, MnTM-2-PyP⁵⁺ suppressed diabetes-induced oxidative stress. Diabetes, however, is rarely diagnosed at its onset. The aim of this study was to investigate if MnTM-2-PyP⁵⁺ can suppress oxidative damage and prevent diabetic complications when administered more than a week after the onset of diabetes. Diabetes was induced by streptozotocin. The MnP-based treatment started 8 days after the onset of diabetes and continued for 2 months. The effect of the treatment on activities of glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione reductase, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase, and glyoxalases I and II as well as malondialdehyde and GSH/GSSG ratio were determined in kidneys. Kidney function was assessed by measuring lysozyme and total protein in urine and blood urea nitrogen. Vascular damage was evaluated by assessing vascular reactivity. Our data showed that delayed administration of MnTM-2-PyP⁵⁺ did not protect against oxidative damage and did not prevent diabetic complications. Moreover, MnTM-2-PyP⁵⁺ contributed to the kidney damage, which seems to be a consequence of its pro-oxidative action. Such outcome can be explained by advanced oxidative damage which already existed at the moment the therapy with MnP started. The data support the concept that the overall biological effect of a redox-active MnP is determined by (i) the relative concentrations of oxidants and reductants, i.e. the cellular redox environment and (ii) MnP biodistribution.

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Mn porphyrins (MnP) are among the most potent SOD mimics.

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MnP suppressed diabetes-induced oxidative stress if applied at the onset of diabetes.

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Delayed administration of MnP augmented oxidative stress and diabetic complications.

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The overall in vivo effect of MnP depends on its redox environment.

MRI-monitored intra-shunt local agent delivery of motexafin gadolinium: towards improving long-term patency of TIPS

Background

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) has become an important and effective interventional procedure in treatment of the complications related to portal hypertension. Although the primary patency of TIPS has been greatly improved due to the clinical application of cover stent-grafts, the long-term patency is still suboptimal. This study was to investigate the feasibility of using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-monitored intra-shunt local agent delivery of motexafin gadolinium (MGd) into shunt-vein walls of TIPS. This new technique aimed to ultimately inhibit shuntstenosis of TIPS.

Methodology

Human umbilical vein smooth muscle cells (SMCs) were incubated with various concentrations of MGd, and then examed by confocal microscopy and T1-map MRI. In addition, the proliferation of MGd-treated cells was evaluated. For in vivo validation, seventeen pigs underwent TIPS. Before placement of the stent, an MGd/trypan-blue mixture was locally delivered, via a microporous balloon, into eleven shunt-hepatic vein walls under dynamic MRI monitoring, while trypan-blue only was locally delivered into six shunt-hepatic vein walls as serve as controls. T1-weighted MRI of the shunt-vein walls was achieved before- and at different time points after agent injections. Contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) of the shunt-vein wall at each time-point was measured. Shunts were harvested for subsequent histology confirmation.

Principal Findings

In vitro studies confirmed the capability of SMCs in uptaking MGds in a concentration-dependent fashion, and demonstrated the suppression of cell proliferation by MGds as well. Dynamic MRI displayed MGd/blue penetration into the shunt-vein walls, showing significantly higher CNR of shunt-vein walls on post-delivery images than on pre-delivery images (49.5±9.4 vs 11.2±1.6, P<0.01), which was confirmed by histology.

Conclusion

Results of this study indicate that MRI-monitored intra-shunt local MGd delivery is feasible and MGd functions as a potential therapeutic agent to inhibit the proliferation of SMCs, which may open alternative avenues to improve the long-term patency of TIPS.

Safety and feasibility of motexafin gadolinium administration with whole brain radiation therapy and stereotactic radiosurgery boost in the treatment of ≤ 6 brain metastases: a multi-institutional phase II trial

To determine the safety, tolerability, and report on secondary efficacy endpoints of motexafin gadolinium (MGd) in combination with whole-brain radiotherapy (WBRT) and stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) for patients with ≤ 6 brain metastases. We conducted an international study of WBRT (37.5 Gy in 15 fractions) and SRS (15-21 Gy) with the addition of MGd (5 mg/kg preceding each fraction beginning week 2). The primary endpoint was to evaluate the rate of irreversible grade 3 or any grade ≥ 4 neurotoxicity and establish feasibility in preparation for a phase III trial. Sixty-five patients were enrolled from 14 institutions, of which 45 (69%) received SRS with MGd as intended and were available for evaluation. Grade ≥ 3 neurotoxicity attributable to radiation therapy within 3 months of SRS was seen in 2 patients (4.4%), including generalized weakness and radionecrosis requiring surgical management. Immediately following the course of MGd plus WBRT, new brain metastases were detected in 11 patients (24.4%) at the time of the SRS treatment planning MRI. The actuarial incidence of neurologic progression at 6 months and 1 year was 17 and 20%, respectively. The median investigator-determined neurologic progression free survival and overall survival times were 8 (95% CI: 5-14) and 9 months (95% CI: 6-not reached), respectively. We observed a low rate of neurotoxicity, demonstrating that the addition of MGd does not increase the incidence or severity of neurologic complications from WBRT with SRS boost.