51
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Yan AC, Levy M. Aptamer-Mediated Delivery and Cell-Targeting Aptamers: Room for Improvement. Nucleic Acid Ther 2018; 28:194-199. [PMID: 29883295 PMCID: PMC5994660 DOI: 10.1089/nat.2018.0732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2018] [Accepted: 04/25/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Targeting cells with aptamers for the delivery of therapeutic cargoes, in particular oligonucleotides, represents one of the most exciting applications of the aptamer field. Perhaps nowhere has there been more excitement in the field than around the targeted delivery of siRNA or miRNA. However, when industry leaders in the field of siRNA delivery have tried to recapitulate aptamer-siRNA delivery results, they have failed. This problem stems from more than just the age-old problem of delivery to the cytoplasm, a challenge that has stymied the targeted delivery of therapeutic oligonucleotides since its inception. With aptamers, the problem is compounded further by the fact that many aptamers simply do not function as reported. This is distressing, as clearly, all published aptamers should be able to function as described. However, it is often challenging to recognize the details that might flag an unreliable aptamer from a viable one. As such, unreliable aptamers continue to be peer reviewed and published. We need to raise the bar and level of rigor in the field. Only then can we think about taking advantage of the unique attributes of these molecules and address the issues associated with their use as agents for targeted delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy C. Yan
- Department of Biochemistry, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
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52
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Kim M, Kim DM, Kim KS, Jung W, Kim DE. Applications of Cancer Cell-Specific Aptamers in Targeted Delivery of Anticancer Therapeutic Agents. Molecules 2018; 23:E830. [PMID: 29617327 PMCID: PMC6017884 DOI: 10.3390/molecules23040830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2018] [Revised: 03/30/2018] [Accepted: 04/02/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Aptamers are single-stranded oligonucleotides that specifically bind and interact with their corresponding targets, including proteins and cells, through unique three-dimensional structures. Numerous aptamers have been developed to target cancer biomarkers with high specificity and affinity, and some are employed as versatile guiding ligands for cancer-specific drug delivery and anti-cancer therapeutics. In this review, we list the aptamers that target tumor surface biomarkers and summarize the representative applications of aptamers as agonists and antagonists that activate anti-cancer and inactivate pro-cancer biomarkers, respectively. In addition, we describe applications of aptamer-drug or aptamer-oligonucleotide conjugates that can deliver therapeutic agents, including small interfering RNAs, micro RNAs, short hairpin RNAs, and chemotherapeutic molecules, to cancer cells. Moreover, we provide examples of aptamer- conjugated nano-vehicles, in which cancer-targeting oligonucleotide aptamers are conjugated with nano-vehicles such as liposomes, micelles, polymeric nanoparticles, and quantum dots. Conjugation of aptamers with anti-cancer drugs and nano-vehicles will facilitate innovative applications of aptamer-based cancer therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minhee Kim
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea.
| | - Dong-Min Kim
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea.
| | - Keun-Sik Kim
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Konyang University, Daejeon 35365, Korea.
| | - Woong Jung
- Department of Emergency Medicine Kyung Hee University Hospital at Gangdong, Seoul 05278, Korea.
| | - Dong-Eun Kim
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea.
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53
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Ohuchi S, Suess B. Altered stoichiometry of an evolved RNA aptamer. RNA (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2018; 24:480-485. [PMID: 29284756 PMCID: PMC5855949 DOI: 10.1261/rna.063610.117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2017] [Accepted: 12/21/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Inhibitory aptamers against a protein are promising as antagonistic reagents and repressive genetic components. Typically, improvement of such aptamers is achieved by acquiring higher binding affinity. Here, we report an alternative mechanism for the improvement of aptamer activity. Recently, we reported a transcriptional activator based on an inhibitory RNA aptamer against lambda cI repressor. We improved the aptamer through in vitro selection (SELEX) from a randomly mutagenized aptamer pool, followed by in vivo screening and truncation. Biochemical analyses indicated that the activity improvement was achieved by alteration of the complex formation stoichiometry, rather than by higher affinity or expression. Our results suggest an alternative strategy for improving aptamer activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shoji Ohuchi
- Department of Biology, Technische Universität Darmstadt, 64287 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Beatrix Suess
- Department of Biology, Technische Universität Darmstadt, 64287 Darmstadt, Germany
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Morita Y, Leslie M, Kameyama H, Volk DE, Tanaka T. Aptamer Therapeutics in Cancer: Current and Future. Cancers (Basel) 2018; 10:cancers10030080. [PMID: 29562664 PMCID: PMC5876655 DOI: 10.3390/cancers10030080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2018] [Revised: 03/13/2018] [Accepted: 03/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Aptamer-related technologies represent a revolutionary advancement in the capacity to rapidly develop new classes of targeting ligands. Structurally distinct RNA and DNA oligonucleotides, aptamers mimic small, protein-binding molecules and exhibit high binding affinity and selectivity. Although their molecular weight is relatively small—approximately one-tenth that of monoclonal antibodies—their complex tertiary folded structures create sufficient recognition surface area for tight interaction with target molecules. Additionally, unlike antibodies, aptamers can be readily chemically synthesized and modified. In addition, aptamers’ long storage period and low immunogenicity are favorable properties for clinical utility. Due to their flexibility of chemical modification, aptamers are conjugated to other chemical entities including chemotherapeutic agents, siRNA, nanoparticles, and solid phase surfaces for therapeutic and diagnostic applications. However, as relatively small sized oligonucleotides, aptamers present several challenges for successful clinical translation. Their short plasma half-lives due to nuclease degradation and rapid renal excretion necessitate further structural modification of aptamers for clinical application. Since the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of the first aptamer drug, Macugen® (pegaptanib), which treats wet-age-related macular degeneration, several aptamer therapeutics for oncology have followed and shown promise in pre-clinical models as well as clinical trials. This review discusses the advantages and challenges of aptamers and introduces therapeutic aptamers under investigation and in clinical trials for cancer treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshihiro Morita
- Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, 975 NE 10th, BRC-W, Rm 1415, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA.
| | - Macall Leslie
- Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, 975 NE 10th, BRC-W, Rm 1415, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA.
| | - Hiroyasu Kameyama
- Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, 975 NE 10th, BRC-W, Rm 1415, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA.
| | - David E Volk
- McGovern Medical School, Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, 1825 Hermann Pressler, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
| | - Takemi Tanaka
- Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, 975 NE 10th, BRC-W, Rm 1415, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA.
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, 940 SL Young Blvd, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA.
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55
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Soldevilla MM, Villanueva H, Casares N, Lasarte JJ, Bendandi M, Inoges S, López-Díaz de Cerio A, Pastor F. MRP1-CD28 bi-specific oligonucleotide aptamers: target costimulation to drug-resistant melanoma cancer stem cells. Oncotarget 2018; 7:23182-96. [PMID: 26992239 PMCID: PMC5029619 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.8095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2016] [Accepted: 02/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
In this work we show a clinically feasible strategy to convert in situ the own tumor into an endogenous vaccine by coating the melanoma cancerous cells with CD28 costimulatory ligands. This therapeutic approach is aimed at targeting T-cell costimulation to chemotherapy-resistant tumors which are refractory and been considered as untreatable cancers. These tumors are usually defined by an enrichment of cancer stem cells and characterized by the higher expression of chemotherapy-resistant proteins. In this work we develop the first aptamer that targets chemotherapy-resistant tumors expressing MRP1 through a novel combinatorial peptide-cell SELEX. With the use of the MRP1 aptamer we engineer a MRP1-CD28 bivalent aptamer that is able to bind MRP1-expressing tumors and deliver the CD28 costimulatory signal to tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes. The bi-specific aptamer is able to enhance costimulation in chemotherapy-resistant tumors. Melanoma-bearing mice systemically treated with MRP1-CD28 bivalent aptamer show reduced growth, thus proving an improved mice survival. Besides, we have designed a technically feasible and translational whole-cell vaccine (Aptvax). Disaggregated cells from tumors can be directly decorated with costimulatory ligand aptamers to generate the vaccine Aptvax. CD28Aptvax made of irradiated tumor cells coated with the CD28-agonistic aptamer attached to MRP1 elicits a strong tumor- cell immune response against melanoma tumors reducing tumor growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Martínez Soldevilla
- Program of Molecular Therapies, Aptamer Unit, Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada (CIMA), Pamplona, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), Recinto de Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra, Irunlarrea, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Helena Villanueva
- Program of Molecular Therapies, Aptamer Unit, Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada (CIMA), Pamplona, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), Recinto de Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra, Irunlarrea, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Noelia Casares
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), Recinto de Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra, Irunlarrea, Pamplona, Spain.,Program Immunology and Immunotherapy, Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada (CIMA), Pamplona, Spain
| | - Juan Jose Lasarte
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), Recinto de Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra, Irunlarrea, Pamplona, Spain.,Program Immunology and Immunotherapy, Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada (CIMA), Pamplona, Spain
| | - Maurizio Bendandi
- Ross University School of Medicine, Roseau, Portsmouth, Commonwealth of Dominica
| | - Susana Inoges
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), Recinto de Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra, Irunlarrea, Pamplona, Spain.,Clínica Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Ascensión López-Díaz de Cerio
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), Recinto de Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra, Irunlarrea, Pamplona, Spain.,Clínica Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Fernando Pastor
- Program of Molecular Therapies, Aptamer Unit, Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada (CIMA), Pamplona, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), Recinto de Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra, Irunlarrea, Pamplona, Spain
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56
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Selection and Identification of Skeletal-Muscle-Targeted RNA Aptamers. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2017; 10:199-214. [PMID: 29499933 PMCID: PMC5862129 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2017.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2017] [Revised: 12/06/2017] [Accepted: 12/06/2017] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Oligonucleotide gene therapy has shown great promise for the treatment of muscular dystrophies. Nevertheless, the selective delivery to affected muscles has shown to be challenging because of their high representation in the body and the high complexity of their cell membranes. Current trials show loss of therapeutic molecules to non-target tissues leading to lower target efficacy. Therefore, strategies that increase uptake efficiency would be particularly compelling. To address this need, we applied a cell-internalization SELEX (Systematic Evolution of Ligands by Exponential Enrichment) approach and identified a skeletal muscle-specific RNA aptamer. A01B RNA aptamer preferentially internalizes in skeletal muscle cells and exhibits decreased affinity for off-target cells. Moreover, this in vitro selected aptamer retained its functionality in vivo, suggesting a potential new approach for targeting skeletal muscles. Ultimately, this will aid in the development of targeted oligonucleotide therapies against muscular dystrophies.
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57
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Avci-Adali M. Selection and Application of Aptamers and Intramers. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2017; 917:241-58. [PMID: 27236559 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-32805-8_11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Aptamers are auspicious nucleic acid ligands for targeting different molecules, such as small molecules, peptides, proteins, or even whole living cells. They are short single-stranded DNA or RNA oligonucleotides, which can fold into complex three-dimensional structures and bind selectively their targets. Using the combinatorial chemistry process SELEX (Systematic Evolution of Ligands by EXponential Enrichment), target specific aptamers can be selected. These aptamers have a variety of application possibilities and can be used as sensors, diagnostic, imaging or therapeutic agents, and in the field of regenerative medicine for tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meltem Avci-Adali
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, University Hospital Tuebingen, Calwerstr. 7/1, 72076, Tuebingen, Germany.
- RiNA GmbH, Berlin, Germany.
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58
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Abstract
Aptamers are single-stranded nucleic acid molecules that bind to and inhibit proteins and are commonly produced by systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment (SELEX). Aptamers undergo extensive pharmacological revision, which alters affinity, specificity, and therapeutic half-life, tailoring each drug for a specific clinical need. The first therapeutic aptamer was described 25 years ago. Thus far, one aptamer has been approved for clinical use, and numerous others are in preclinical or clinical development. This review presents a short history of aptamers and SELEX, describes their pharmacological development and optimization, and reviews potential treatment of diseases including visual disorders, thrombosis, and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahid M Nimjee
- Department of Neurological Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio 43210;
| | - Rebekah R White
- Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27705;
| | - Richard C Becker
- Department of Medicine, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267;
| | - Bruce A Sullenger
- Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27705; .,Duke Translational Research Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27705;
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59
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Shahdordizadeh M, Taghdisi SM, Sankian M, Ramezani M, Abnous K. Design, isolation and evaluation of the binding efficiency of a DNA aptamer against interleukin 2 receptor alpha, in vitro. Int Immunopharmacol 2017; 53:96-104. [PMID: 29055191 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2017.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2017] [Revised: 10/07/2017] [Accepted: 10/10/2017] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
High levels of CD25, as part of the IL-2 receptor, are expressed on the surface of the activated T lymphocytes and regulatory T cells, indicating that the soluble CD25 (sCD25) could be a clinically valuable tool for treating several diseases. Moreover, progress has been achieved in targeting the IL-2 receptor to treat autoimmune diseases, organ transplantation and certain hematological malignancies. In the current study, generation of an ssDNA aptamer (Apt51) against CD25 is reported. Apt51 bound to CD25 with high affinity (Kd=13.4nM) and specificity. Furthermore, Apt51 was truncated to two shortened variants that almost retained their high affinity for the CD25 protein. Moreover, Apt51 showed good affinity and selectivity for the recognition of CD25 on the cell surface. Importantly, the study showed that Apt51 interfered with the binding of CD25 to its ligand (IL 2) and consequently decreased the IL-2-induced Akt activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahin Shahdordizadeh
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, Advanced Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Seyed Mohammad Taghdisi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Targeted Drug Delivery Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mojtaba Sankian
- Immunology Research Center, Medical School, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mohammad Ramezani
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, Advanced Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
| | - Khalil Abnous
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, Advanced Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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60
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Batool S, Bhandari S, George S, Okeoma P, Van N, Zümrüt HE, Mallikaratchy P. Engineered Aptamers to Probe Molecular Interactions on the Cell Surface. Biomedicines 2017; 5:biomedicines5030054. [PMID: 28850067 PMCID: PMC5618312 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines5030054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2017] [Revised: 08/01/2017] [Accepted: 08/08/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Significant progress has been made in understanding the nature of molecular interactions on the cell membrane. To decipher such interactions, molecular scaffolds can be engineered as a tool to modulate these events as they occur on the cell membrane. To guarantee reliability, scaffolds that function as modulators of cell membrane events must be coupled to a targeting moiety with superior chemical versatility. In this regard, nucleic acid aptamers are a suitable class of targeting moieties. Aptamers are inherently chemical in nature, allowing extensive site-specific chemical modification to engineer sensing molecules. Aptamers can be easily selected using a simple laboratory-based in vitro evolution method enabling the design and development of aptamer-based functional molecular scaffolds against wide range of cell surface molecules. This article reviews the application of aptamers as monitors and modulators of molecular interactions on the mammalian cell surface with the aim of increasing our understanding of cell-surface receptor response to external stimuli. The information gained from these types of studies could eventually prove useful in engineering improved medical diagnostics and therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sana Batool
- Department of Chemistry, Lehman College, The City University of New York, 250 Bedford Park Blvd. West, Bronx, New York, NY 10468, USA.
| | - Sanam Bhandari
- Department of Chemistry, Lehman College, The City University of New York, 250 Bedford Park Blvd. West, Bronx, New York, NY 10468, USA.
| | - Shanell George
- Department of Chemistry, Lehman College, The City University of New York, 250 Bedford Park Blvd. West, Bronx, New York, NY 10468, USA.
| | - Precious Okeoma
- Department of Chemistry, Lehman College, The City University of New York, 250 Bedford Park Blvd. West, Bronx, New York, NY 10468, USA.
| | - Nabeela Van
- Department of Chemistry, Lehman College, The City University of New York, 250 Bedford Park Blvd. West, Bronx, New York, NY 10468, USA.
| | - Hazan E Zümrüt
- Ph.D. Programs in Chemistry and Biochemistry, CUNY Graduate Center, 365 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10016, USA.
| | - Prabodhika Mallikaratchy
- Department of Chemistry, Lehman College, The City University of New York, 250 Bedford Park Blvd. West, Bronx, New York, NY 10468, USA.
- Ph.D. Programs in Chemistry and Biochemistry, CUNY Graduate Center, 365 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10016, USA.
- Ph.D. Program in Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, CUNY Graduate Center, 365 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10016, USA.
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Abstract
Aptamers are nucleic acids referred to as chemical antibodies as they bind to their specific targets with high affinity and selectivity. They are selected via an iterative process known as ‘selective evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment’ (SELEX). Aptamers have been developed against numerous cancer targets and among them, many tumor cell-membrane protein biomarkers. The identification of aptamers targeting cell-surface proteins has mainly been performed by two different strategies: protein- and cell-based SELEX, when the targets used for selection were proteins and cells, respectively. This review aims to update the literature on aptamers targeting tumor cell surface protein biomarkers, highlighting potentials, pitfalls of protein- and cell-based selection processes and applications of such selected molecules. Aptamers as promising agents for diagnosis and therapeutic approaches in oncology are documented, as well as aptamers in clinical development.
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Ohuchi S, Suess B. An inhibitory RNA aptamer against the lambda cI repressor shows transcriptional activator activity in vivo. FEBS Lett 2017; 591:1429-1436. [PMID: 28407231 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.12653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2017] [Revised: 03/14/2017] [Accepted: 04/08/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
RNA aptamers are one of the promising components for constructing artificial genetic circuits. In this study, we developed a transcriptional activator based on an RNA aptamer against one of the most frequently applied repressor proteins, lambda phage cI. In vitro selection (Systematic Evolution of Ligands by EXponential enrichment) and following in vivo screening identified an RNA aptamer with the intended transcriptional activator activity from an RNA pool containing a 40-nucleotide long random region. Quantitative analysis showed a 35-fold elevation of reporter expression upon aptamer expression. These results suggest that the diversity of artificial transcriptional activators can be extended by employing RNA aptamers against repressor proteins to broaden the parts for constructing genetic circuits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shoji Ohuchi
- Department of Biology, Technische Universität Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Beatrix Suess
- Department of Biology, Technische Universität Darmstadt, Germany
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63
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Abstract
The immune system plays important role in protecting the organism by recognizing non-self molecules from pathogen such as bacteria, parasitic worms, and viruses. When the balance of the host defense system is disturbed, immunodeficiency, autoimmunity, and inflammation occur. Nucleic acid aptamers are short single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) or RNA ligands that interact with complementary molecules with high specificity and affinity. Aptamers that target the molecules involved in immune system to modulate their function have great potential to be explored as new diagnostic and therapeutic agents for immune disorders. This review summarizes recent advances in the development of aptamers targeting immune system. The selection of aptamers with superior chemical and biological characteristics will facilitate their application in the diagnosis and treatment of immune disorders.
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Abstract
Nucleic acid aptamers, often termed 'chemical antibodies', are functionally comparable to traditional antibodies, but offer several advantages, including their relatively small physical size, flexible structure, quick chemical production, versatile chemical modification, high stability and lack of immunogenicity. In addition, many aptamers are internalized upon binding to cellular receptors, making them useful targeted delivery agents for small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), microRNAs and conventional drugs. However, several crucial factors have delayed the clinical translation of therapeutic aptamers, such as their inherent physicochemical characteristics and lack of safety data. This Review discusses these challenges, highlighting recent clinical developments and technological advances that have revived the impetus for this promising class of therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiehua Zhou
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, 1500 E. Duarte Rd, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - John Rossi
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, 1500 E. Duarte Rd, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
- Irell and Manella Graduate School of Biological Sciences, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, 1500 E. Duarte Rd, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
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65
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Aptamers for CD Antigens: From Cell Profiling to Activity Modulation. MOLECULAR THERAPY-NUCLEIC ACIDS 2016; 6:29-44. [PMID: 28325295 PMCID: PMC5363458 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2016.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2016] [Revised: 12/02/2016] [Accepted: 12/02/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Nucleic acid-based aptamers are considered to be a promising alternative to antibodies because of their strong and specific binding to diverse targets, fast and inexpensive chemical synthesis, and easy labeling with a fluorescent dye or therapeutic agent. Cluster of differentiation (CD) proteins are among the most popular antigens for aptamers on the cell surface. These anti-CD aptamers could be used in cell biology and biomedicine, from simple cell phenotyping by flow cytometry or fluorescent microscopy to diagnosis and treatment of HIV/AIDS to cancer and immune therapies. The unique feature of aptamers is that they can act simultaneously as an agonist and antagonist of CD receptors depending on a degree of aptamer oligomerization. Aptamers can also deliver small interfering RNA to silence vital genes in CD-positive cells. In this review, we summarize nucleic acid sequences of anti-CD aptamers and their use, which have been validated in multiple studies.
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66
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Vorobyeva M, Vorobjev P, Venyaminova A. Multivalent Aptamers: Versatile Tools for Diagnostic and Therapeutic Applications. Molecules 2016; 21:molecules21121613. [PMID: 27898020 PMCID: PMC6274531 DOI: 10.3390/molecules21121613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2016] [Revised: 11/11/2016] [Accepted: 11/18/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Nucleic acid aptamers generated through an in vitro selection are currently extensively applied as very valuable biomolecular tools thanks to their prominent advantages. Diversity of spatial structures, ease of production through chemical synthesis and a large variety of chemical modifications make aptamers convenient building blocks for the generation of multifunctional constructs. An opportunity to combine different aptamer functionalities with other molecules of interest such as reporter groups, nanoparticles, chemotherapeutic agents, siRNA or antisense oligonucleotides provides a widest range of applications of multivalent aptamers. The present review summarizes approaches to the design of multivalent aptamers, various examples of multifunctional constructs and the prospects of employing them as components of biosensors, probes for affinity capture, tools for cell research and potential therapeutic candidates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariya Vorobyeva
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Lavrentiev Ave., 8, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia.
| | - Pavel Vorobjev
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Lavrentiev Ave., 8, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia.
| | - Alya Venyaminova
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Lavrentiev Ave., 8, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia.
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67
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Hervas-Stubbs S, Soldevilla MM, Villanueva H, Mancheño U, Bendandi M, Pastor F. Identification of TIM3 2'-fluoro oligonucleotide aptamer by HT-SELEX for cancer immunotherapy. Oncotarget 2016; 7:4522-30. [PMID: 26683225 PMCID: PMC4826223 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.6608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2015] [Accepted: 11/27/2015] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
TIM3 belongs to a family of receptors that are involved in T-cell exhaustion and Treg functions. The development of new therapeutic agents to block this type of receptors is opening a new avenue in cancer immunotherapy. There are currently several clinical trials ongoing to combine different immune-checkpoint blockades to improve the outcome of cancer patients. Among these combinations we should underline PD1:PDL1 axis and TIM3 blockade, which have shown very promising results in preclinical settings. Most of these types of therapeutic agents are protein cell-derived products, which, although broadly used in clinical settings, are still subject to important limitations. In this work we identify by HT-SELEX TIM3 non-antigenic oligonucleotide aptamers (TIM3Apt) that bind with high affinity and specificity to the extracellular motives of TIM3 on the cell surface. The TIM3Apt1 in its monomeric form displays a potent antagonist capacity on TIM3-expressing lymphocytes, determining the increase of IFN-γ secretion. In colon carcinoma tumor-bearing mice, the combinatorial treatment of TIM3Apt1 and PDL1-antibody blockade is synergistic with a remarkable antitumor effect. Immunotherapeutic aptamers could represent an attractive alternative to monoclonal antibodies, as they exhibit important advantages; namely, lower antigenicity, being chemically synthesized agents with a lower price of manufacture, providing higher malleability, and antidote availability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Hervas-Stubbs
- Program Immunology and Immunotherapy, Centro de Investigaciones Medicas Aplicadas (CIMA), Pamplona, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), Recinto de Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Mario M Soldevilla
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), Recinto de Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain.,Program of Molecular Therapies, Aptamer Unit, Centro de Investigaciones Medicas Aplicadas (CIMA), Pamplona, Spain
| | - Helena Villanueva
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), Recinto de Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain.,Program of Molecular Therapies, Aptamer Unit, Centro de Investigaciones Medicas Aplicadas (CIMA), Pamplona, Spain
| | - Uxua Mancheño
- Program Immunology and Immunotherapy, Centro de Investigaciones Medicas Aplicadas (CIMA), Pamplona, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), Recinto de Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Maurizio Bendandi
- Ross University School of Medicine, Portsmouth, Commonwealth of Dominica
| | - Fernando Pastor
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), Recinto de Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain.,Program of Molecular Therapies, Aptamer Unit, Centro de Investigaciones Medicas Aplicadas (CIMA), Pamplona, Spain
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Pastor F. Aptamers: A New Technological Platform in Cancer Immunotherapy. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2016; 9:E64. [PMID: 27783034 PMCID: PMC5198039 DOI: 10.3390/ph9040064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2016] [Revised: 09/29/2016] [Accepted: 10/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The renaissance of cancer immunotherapy is, nowadays, a reality. In the near future, it will be very likely among the first-line treatments for cancer patients. There are several different approaches to modulate the immune system to fight against tumor maladies but, so far, monoclonal antibodies may currently be the most successful immuno-tools used to that end. The number of ongoing clinical trials with monoclonal antibodies has been increasing exponentially over the last few years upon the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of the first immune-checkpoint blockade antibodies. In spite of the proved antitumor effect of these reagents, the unleashing of the immune system to fight cancer cells has a cost, namely auto-inflammatory toxicity. Additionally, only a small fraction of all patients treated with immune-checkpoint antibodies have a clinical benefit. Taking into account all this, it is urgent new therapeutic reagents are developed with a contained toxicity that could facilitate the combination of different immune-modulating pathways to broaden the antitumor effect in most cancer patients. Based on preclinical data, oligonucleotide aptamers could fulfill this need. Aptamers have not only been successfully used as antagonists of immune-checkpoint receptors, but also as agonists of immunostimulatory receptors in cancer immunotherapy. The simplicity of aptamers to be engineered for the specific delivery of different types of cargos to tumor cells and immune cells so as to harvest an efficient antitumor immune response gives aptamers a significant advantage over antibodies. In this review all of the recent applications of aptamers in cancer immunotherapy will be described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Pastor
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), Recinto de Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra, Pamplona 31008, Spain.
- Program of Molecular Therapies, Aptamer Unit, Centro de Investigación Medica Aplicada (CIMA), Pamplona 31008, Spain.
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69
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Aptamers in hematological malignancies and their potential therapeutic implications. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2016; 106:108-17. [PMID: 27637356 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2016.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2016] [Revised: 06/06/2016] [Accepted: 08/09/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Aptamers are short DNA/RNA oligonucleotides selected by the process called Systematic Evolution of Ligands by Exponential Enrichment (SELEX). Due to their functional similarity to monoclonal antibodies with some superior characters, such as high specificity and affinity, flexible modification and stability, and lack of toxicity and immunogenicity, they are promising alternative and complementary targeted therapy for hematologic malignancies. The trends in aptamer technology including production, selection, modifications are briefly discussed in this review. The key aspect is to illustrate aptamers against cancer cells in hematologic malignancies especially those that have entered clinical trials. We also discuss some challenges remain in the application of aptamers.
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70
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Gilboa E, Berezhnoy A, Schrand B. Reducing Toxicity of Immune Therapy Using Aptamer-Targeted Drug Delivery. Cancer Immunol Res 2016; 3:1195-200. [PMID: 26541880 DOI: 10.1158/2326-6066.cir-15-0194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Modulating the function of immune receptors with antibodies is ushering in a new era in cancer immunotherapy. With the notable exception of PD-1 blockade used as monotherapy, immune modulation can be associated with significant toxicities that are expected to escalate with the development of increasingly potent immune therapies. A general way to reduce toxicity is to target immune potentiating drugs to the tumor or immune cells of the patient. This Crossroads article discusses a new class of nucleic acid-based immune-modulatory drugs that are targeted to the tumor or to the immune system by conjugation to oligonucleotide aptamer ligands. Cell-free chemically synthesized short oligonucleotide aptamers represent a novel and emerging platform technology for generating ligands with desired specificity that offer exceptional versatility and feasibility in terms of development, manufacture, and conjugation to an oligonucleotide cargo. In proof-of-concept studies, aptamer ligands were used to target immune-modulatory siRNAs or aptamers to induce neoantigens in the tumor cells, limit costimulation to the tumor lesion, or enhance the persistence of vaccine-induced immunity. Using increasingly relevant murine models, the aptamer-targeted immune-modulatory drugs engendered protective antitumor immunity that was superior to that of current "gold-standard" therapies in terms of efficacy and lack of toxicity or reduced toxicity. To overcome immune exhaustion aptamer-targeted siRNA conjugates could be used to downregulate intracellular mediators of exhaustion that integrate signals from multiple inhibitory receptors. Recent advances in aptamer development and second-generation aptamer-drug conjugates suggest that we have only scratched the surface.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eli Gilboa
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dodson Interdisciplinary Immunotherapy Institute, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida.
| | - Alexey Berezhnoy
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dodson Interdisciplinary Immunotherapy Institute, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida
| | - Brett Schrand
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dodson Interdisciplinary Immunotherapy Institute, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida
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71
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Serebrovskaya EO, Yuzhakova DV, Ryumina AP, Druzhkova IN, Sharonov GV, Kotlobay AA, Zagaynova EV, Lukyanov SA, Shirmanova MV. Soluble OX40L favors tumor rejection in CT26 colon carcinoma model. Cytokine 2016; 84:10-6. [PMID: 27203665 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2016.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2015] [Revised: 04/06/2016] [Accepted: 05/02/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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Aptamers: A Feasible Technology in Cancer Immunotherapy. J Immunol Res 2016; 2016:1083738. [PMID: 27413756 PMCID: PMC4931050 DOI: 10.1155/2016/1083738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2016] [Accepted: 05/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Aptamers are single-chained RNA or DNA oligonucleotides (ODNs) with three-dimensional folding structures which allow them to bind to their targets with high specificity. Aptamers normally show affinities comparable to or higher than that of antibodies. They are chemically synthesized and therefore less expensive to manufacture and produce. A variety of aptamers described to date have been shown to be reliable in modulating immune responses against cancer by either blocking or activating immune receptors. Some of them have been conjugated to other molecules to target the immune system and reduce off-target side effects. Despite the success of first-line treatments against cancer, the elevated number of relapsing cases and the tremendous side effects shown by the commonly used agents hinder conventional treatments against cancer. The advantages provided by aptamers could enhance the therapeutic index of a given strategy and therefore enhance the antitumor effect. Here we recapitulate the provided benefits of aptamers with immunomodulatory activity described to date in cancer therapy and the benefits that aptamer-based immunotherapy could provide either alone or combined with first-line treatments in cancer therapy.
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Abstract
Aptamers are chemically synthesized oligonucleotides that can be easily engineered for cancer immunotherapy use. So far, most of the therapeutic aptamers described are antagonistic and block the function of a receptor or its soluble ligand. Recently, aptamers have been modified to act as agonists by multimerization, with a direct application in cancer immunotherapy. Several agonistic aptamers against costimulatory receptors have been described. However, systemic costimulation, though potentially a very potent antitumor immune strategy, is not devoid of auto-inflammatory side effects. In a quest to reduce toxicity and improve efficacy – reducing the therapeutic index – the first bi-specific aptamers to target the costimulatory ligand to the tumor have been described, showing very promising results in different preclinical tumor models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Pastor
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), Recinto de Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra, Pamplona 31008, Spain.,Program of Molecular Therapies, Aptamer Unit, Centro de Investigación Medica Aplicada (CIMA), Pamplona, 31008, Spain
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74
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Zhou G, Wilson G, Hebbard L, Duan W, Liddle C, George J, Qiao L. Aptamers: A promising chemical antibody for cancer therapy. Oncotarget 2016; 7:13446-63. [PMID: 26863567 PMCID: PMC4924653 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.7178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2015] [Accepted: 01/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Aptamers, also known as chemical antibodies, are single-stranded nucleic acid oligonucleotides which bind to their targets with high specificity and affinity. They are typically selected by repetitive in vitro process termed systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment (SELEX). Owing to their excellent properties compared to conventional antibodies, notably their smaller physical size and lower immunogenicity and toxicity, aptamers have recently emerged as a new class of agents to deliver therapeutic drugs to cancer cells by targeting specific cancer-associated hallmarks. Aptamers can also be structurally modified to make them more flexible in order to conjugate other agents such as nano-materials and therapeutic RNA agents, thus extending their applications for cancer therapy. This review presents the current knowledge on the practical applications of aptamers in the treatment of a variety of cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gang Zhou
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Millennium Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney and Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - George Wilson
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Millennium Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney and Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Lionel Hebbard
- Discipline of Molecular and Cell Biology, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, Australia
| | - Wei Duan
- School of Medicine, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, VIC, Australia
| | - Christopher Liddle
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Millennium Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney and Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Jacob George
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Millennium Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney and Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Liang Qiao
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Millennium Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney and Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, Australia
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75
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Maier KE, Jangra RK, Shieh KR, Cureton DK, Xiao H, Snapp EL, Whelan SP, Chandran K, Levy M. A New Transferrin Receptor Aptamer Inhibits New World Hemorrhagic Fever Mammarenavirus Entry. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2016; 5:e321. [DOI: 10.1038/mtna.2016.32] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2016] [Accepted: 04/07/2016] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
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76
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Ueki R, Ueki A, Kanda N, Sando S. Oligonucleotide-Based Mimetics of Hepatocyte Growth Factor. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2015; 55:579-82. [PMID: 26592704 DOI: 10.1002/anie.201508572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2015] [Revised: 10/21/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Oligonucleotide-based hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) mimetics are described. A DNA aptamer to Met, a cognate receptor for HGF, was shown to induce Met activation when used in dimer form. The most potent aptamer dimer, ss-0, which was composed solely of 100-mer single-stranded DNA, exhibited nanomolar potency. Aptamer ss-0 reproduced HGF-induced cellular behaviors, including migration and proliferation. The present work sheds light on oligonucleotides as a novel chemical entity for the design of growth factor mimetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryosuke Ueki
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656 (Japan)
| | - Ayaka Ueki
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656 (Japan)
| | - Naoto Kanda
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656 (Japan)
| | - Shinsuke Sando
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656 (Japan).
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77
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Ueki R, Ueki A, Kanda N, Sando S. Oligonucleotide‐Based Mimetics of Hepatocyte Growth Factor. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2015. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.201508572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Ryosuke Ueki
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology The University of Tokyo 7-3-1 Hongo Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656 Japan
| | - Ayaka Ueki
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology The University of Tokyo 7-3-1 Hongo Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656 Japan
| | - Naoto Kanda
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology The University of Tokyo 7-3-1 Hongo Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656 Japan
| | - Shinsuke Sando
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology The University of Tokyo 7-3-1 Hongo Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656 Japan
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78
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Soule EE, Bompiani KM, Woodruff RS, Sullenger BA. Targeting Two Coagulation Cascade Proteases with a Bivalent Aptamer Yields a Potent and Antidote-Controllable Anticoagulant. Nucleic Acid Ther 2015; 26:1-9. [PMID: 26584417 DOI: 10.1089/nat.2015.0565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Potent and rapid-onset anticoagulation is required for several clinical settings, including cardiopulmonary bypass surgery. In addition, because anticoagulation is associated with increased bleeding following surgery, the ability to rapidly reverse such robust anticoagulation is also important. Previously, we observed that no single aptamer was as potent as heparin for anticoagulating blood. However, we discovered that combinations of two aptamers were as potent as heparin. Herein, we sought to combine two individual anticoagulant aptamers into a single bivalent RNA molecule in an effort to generate a single molecule that retained the potent anticoagulant activity of the combination of individual aptamers. We created four bivalent aptamers that can inhibit Factor X/Xa and prothrombin/thrombin and anticoagulate plasma, as well as the combination of individual aptamers. Detailed characterization of the shortest bivalent aptamer indicates that each aptamer retains full binding and functional activity when presented in the bivalent context. Finally, reversal of this bivalent aptamer with a single antidote was explored, and anticoagulant activity could be rapidly turned off in a dose-dependent manner. These studies demonstrate that bivalent anticoagulant aptamers represent a novel and potent approach to actively and reversibly control coagulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin E Soule
- Departments of Surgery and Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University Medical Center , Durham, North Carolina
| | - Kristin M Bompiani
- Departments of Surgery and Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University Medical Center , Durham, North Carolina
| | - Rebecca S Woodruff
- Departments of Surgery and Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University Medical Center , Durham, North Carolina
| | - Bruce A Sullenger
- Departments of Surgery and Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University Medical Center , Durham, North Carolina
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79
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Ma H, Liu J, Ali MM, Mahmood MAI, Labanieh L, Lu M, Iqbal SM, Zhang Q, Zhao W, Wan Y. Nucleic acid aptamers in cancer research, diagnosis and therapy. Chem Soc Rev 2015; 44:1240-56. [PMID: 25561050 DOI: 10.1039/c4cs00357h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 166] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Aptamers are single-stranded DNA or RNA oligomers, identified from a random sequence pool, with the ability to form unique and versatile tertiary structures that bind to cognate molecules with superior specificity. Their small size, excellent chemical stability and low immunogenicity enable them to rival antibodies in cancer imaging and therapy applications. Their facile chemical synthesis, versatility in structural design and engineering, and the ability for site-specific modifications with functional moieties make aptamers excellent recognition motifs for cancer biomarker discovery and detection. Moreover, aptamers can be selected or engineered to regulate cancer protein functions, as well as to guide anti-cancer drug design or screening. This review summarizes their applications in cancer, including cancer biomarker discovery and detection, cancer imaging, cancer therapy, and anti-cancer drug discovery. Although relevant applications are relatively new, the significant progress achieved has demonstrated that aptamers can be promising players in cancer research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haitao Ma
- The Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, China
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80
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Khedri M, Rafatpanah H, Abnous K, Ramezani P, Ramezani M. Cancer immunotherapy via nucleic acid aptamers. Int Immunopharmacol 2015; 29:926-936. [PMID: 26603636 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2015.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2015] [Revised: 10/09/2015] [Accepted: 10/13/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Over the past decade, immune therapy has become a standard treatment for a variety of cancers. Monoclonal antibodies, immune adjuvants and vaccines against oncogenic viruses are now well-established cancer therapies. Immune modulation is a principal element of supportive care for many high-dose chemotherapy regimens. Aptamers are short nucleic acids that bind to defined targets with high affinity and specificity. The first aptamers have been selected around two decades ago by an in vitro process named SELEX (systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment). Since then, numerous aptamers with specificities for a variety of targets from small molecules to proteins or even whole cells have been selected. Targeting immunomodulatory ligands in the progressive tumor lesions of the patients would be prophylactic or therapeutic and may reduce drug-associated toxicities. A new class of inhibitory and agonistic ligands composed of short oligonucleotide (ODN) aptamers was developed recently that exhibited bioactivities comparable or superior to that of antibodies. This paper addressed progress in cancer immunotherapy with nucleic acid aptamers and highlighted recent developments either in immune system targeting or in immunotherapy methods involved aptamers. We discussed aptamer limitations when used as therapeutic agents for cancer treatment and suggested ways to overcome those limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mostafa Khedri
- Department of Immunology, Immunology Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Houshang Rafatpanah
- Department of Immunology, Immunology Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Khalil Abnous
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Pouria Ramezani
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mohammad Ramezani
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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81
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Opazo F, Eiden L, Hansen L, Rohrbach F, Wengel J, Kjems J, Mayer G. Modular Assembly of Cell-targeting Devices Based on an Uncommon G-quadruplex Aptamer. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2015; 4:e251. [PMID: 26325628 PMCID: PMC4877450 DOI: 10.1038/mtna.2015.25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2015] [Accepted: 07/22/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Aptamers are valuable tools that provide great potential to develop cost-effective diagnostics and therapies in the biomedical field. Here, we report a novel DNA aptamer that folds into an unconventional G-quadruplex structure able to recognize and enter specifically into human Burkitt's lymphoma cells. We further optimized this aptamer to a highly versatile and stable minimized version. The minimized aptamer can be easily equipped with different functionalities like quantum dots, organic dyes, or even a second different aptamer domain yielding a bi-paratopic aptamer. Although the target molecule of the aptamer remains unknown, our microscopy and pharmacological studies revealed that the aptamer hijacks the clathrin-mediated endocytosis pathway for its cellular internalization. We conclude that this novel class of aptamers can be used as a modular tool to specifically deliver different cargoes into malignant cells. This work provides a thorough characterization of the aptamer and we expect that our strategy will pave the path for future therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felipe Opazo
- Department of Neuro- and Sensory Physiology, University of Göttingen Medical Center, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Laura Eiden
- Life and Medical Sciences Institute, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Line Hansen
- Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center (iNANO), Aarhus University, Aarhus C, Denmark.,Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Aarhus University, Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Falk Rohrbach
- Life and Medical Sciences Institute, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Jesper Wengel
- Nucleic Acid Center, University of Southern Denmark, Odense M, Denmark
| | - Jørgen Kjems
- Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center (iNANO), Aarhus University, Aarhus C, Denmark.,Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Aarhus University, Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Günter Mayer
- Life and Medical Sciences Institute, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
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82
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Yunn NO, Koh A, Han S, Lim JH, Park S, Lee J, Kim E, Jang SK, Berggren PO, Ryu SH. Agonistic aptamer to the insulin receptor leads to biased signaling and functional selectivity through allosteric modulation. Nucleic Acids Res 2015; 43:7688-701. [PMID: 26245346 PMCID: PMC4652772 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkv767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2015] [Accepted: 07/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Due to their high affinity and specificity, aptamers have been widely used as effective inhibitors in clinical applications. However, the ability to activate protein function through aptamer-protein interaction has not been well-elucidated. To investigate their potential as target-specific agonists, we used SELEX to generate aptamers to the insulin receptor (IR) and identified an agonistic aptamer named IR-A48 that specifically binds to IR, but not to IGF-1 receptor. Despite its capacity to stimulate IR autophosphorylation, similar to insulin, we found that IR-A48 not only binds to an allosteric site distinct from the insulin binding site, but also preferentially induces Y1150 phosphorylation in the IR kinase domain. Moreover, Y1150-biased phosphorylation induced by IR-A48 selectively activates specific signaling pathways downstream of IR. In contrast to insulin-mediated activation of IR, IR-A48 binding has little effect on the MAPK pathway and proliferation of cancer cells. Instead, AKT S473 phosphorylation is highly stimulated by IR-A48, resulting in increased glucose uptake both in vitro and in vivo. Here, we present IR-A48 as a biased agonist able to selectively induce the metabolic activity of IR through allosteric binding. Furthermore, our study also suggests that aptamers can be a promising tool for developing artificial biased agonists to targeted receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na-Oh Yunn
- The School of Interdisciplinary Bioscience and Bioengineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Pohang 790-784, South Korea
| | - Ara Koh
- The Department of Life Sciences, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Pohang 790-784, South Korea
| | - Seungmin Han
- The Department of Life Sciences, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Pohang 790-784, South Korea
| | - Jong Hun Lim
- The POSTECH Aptamer Initiative Program, POSTECH Biotech Center, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Pohang 790-784, South Korea
| | - Sehoon Park
- The Department of Life Sciences, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Pohang 790-784, South Korea
| | - Jiyoun Lee
- The Department of Life Sciences, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Pohang 790-784, South Korea
| | - Eui Kim
- The Division of Integrative Bioscience and Biotechnology, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Pohang 790-784, South Korea
| | - Sung Key Jang
- The School of Interdisciplinary Bioscience and Bioengineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Pohang 790-784, South Korea The Department of Life Sciences, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Pohang 790-784, South Korea The Division of Integrative Bioscience and Biotechnology, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Pohang 790-784, South Korea
| | - Per-Olof Berggren
- The Division of Integrative Bioscience and Biotechnology, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Pohang 790-784, South Korea The Rolf Luft Research Center for Diabetes and Endocrinology, Karolinska Institutet, SE-171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sung Ho Ryu
- The School of Interdisciplinary Bioscience and Bioengineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Pohang 790-784, South Korea The Department of Life Sciences, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Pohang 790-784, South Korea The Division of Integrative Bioscience and Biotechnology, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Pohang 790-784, South Korea
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83
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Soldevilla MM, Villanueva H, Bendandi M, Inoges S, López-Díaz de Cerio A, Pastor F. 2-fluoro-RNA oligonucleotide CD40 targeted aptamers for the control of B lymphoma and bone-marrow aplasia. Biomaterials 2015; 67:274-85. [PMID: 26231918 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2015.07.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2015] [Accepted: 07/11/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Recent studies have underscored the importance of immunomodulatory antibodies in the treatment of solid and hematological tumors. ODN-Aptamers are rising as a novel class of drugs that can rival therapeutic antibodies. The success of some of the current cancer immunotherapy approaches in oncological patients depends on the intrinsic antigenicity of each tumor as has recently been disclosed, and it is hampered in those patients that are treated with myeloablative chemotherapy or radiotherapy, which induce profound immunosuppression. CD40 agonist and antagonist molecules offer a new therapeutic alternative which has the potential to generate anticancer effects by different mechanisms. HS-SELEX was performed to identify high-affinity aptamers against CD40, and three therapeutic CD40 constructs were engineered as: CD40 agonist aptamer, CD40 antagonist aptamer and CD40 agonistic aptamer-shRNA chimera. It is shown that CD40 agonist aptamers can be used to promote bone-marrow aplasia recovery. CD40 antagonist aptamers are revealed to have a direct antitumor effect on CD40-expressing B-cell lymphoma in vitro and in vivo. Further, in order to identify a therapeutic reagent that will generate the optimal conditions for cancer immunotherapy (antigen-presenting cell activation, tumor antigenicity enhancement and bone-marrow aplasia recovery), CD40 agonist aptamer-shRNA chimera was generated to target the inhibition of the Nonsense mRNA Mediated Decay (NMD) to tumor cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Martinez Soldevilla
- CIMA, Program of Molecular Therapies, Aptamer Unit, Universidad de Navarra, Avenida Pio XII 55, 31008, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Helena Villanueva
- CIMA, Program of Molecular Therapies, Aptamer Unit, Universidad de Navarra, Avenida Pio XII 55, 31008, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Maurizio Bendandi
- Ross University School of Medicine, PO Box 266 Roseau, Portsmouth, Dominica
| | - Susana Inoges
- Clínica Universidad de Navarra, Avenida Pío XII, 36, 31008, Pamplona, Spain
| | | | - Fernando Pastor
- CIMA, Program of Molecular Therapies, Aptamer Unit, Universidad de Navarra, Avenida Pio XII 55, 31008, Pamplona, Spain.
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84
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Manipulating the in vivo immune response by targeted gene knockdown. Curr Opin Immunol 2015; 35:63-72. [PMID: 26149459 DOI: 10.1016/j.coi.2015.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2015] [Revised: 06/09/2015] [Accepted: 06/19/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Aptamers, nucleic acids selected for high affinity binding to proteins, can be used to activate or antagonize immune mediators or receptors in a location and cell-type specific manner and to enhance antigen presentation. They can also be linked to other molecules (other aptamers, siRNAs or miRNAs, proteins, toxins) to produce multifunctional compounds for targeted immune modulation in vivo. Aptamer-siRNA chimeras (AsiCs) that induce efficient cell-specific knockdown in immune cells in vitro and in vivo can be used as an immunological research tool or potentially as an immunomodulating therapeutic.
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85
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Ramaswamy V, Monsalve A, Sautina L, Segal MS, Dobson J, Allen JB. DNA Aptamer Assembly as a Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor Agonist. Nucleic Acid Ther 2015; 25:227-34. [PMID: 26125598 DOI: 10.1089/nat.2014.0519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Controlling receptor-mediated processes in cells is paramount in many research areas. The activity of small molecules and growth factors is difficult to control and can lead to off-target effects through the activation of nonspecific receptors as well as binding affinity to nonspecific cell types. In this study, we report the development of a molecular trigger in the form of a divalent nucleic acid aptamer assembly toward vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 (VEGFR2). The assembly binds to VEGFR2 and functions as a receptor agonist with targeted receptor binding, promoting receptor phosphorylation, activation of the downstream Akt pathway, upregulation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase, and endothelial cell capillary tube formation. The agonist action we report makes this aptamer construct a promising strategy to control VEGFR2-mediated cell signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vidhya Ramaswamy
- 1 Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Florida , Gainesville, Florida
| | - Adam Monsalve
- 1 Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Florida , Gainesville, Florida
| | - Larysa Sautina
- 2 Division of Nephrology, College of Medicine, University of Florida , Gainesville, Florida
| | - Mark S Segal
- 2 Division of Nephrology, College of Medicine, University of Florida , Gainesville, Florida.,3 North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System , Gainesville, Florida
| | - Jon Dobson
- 1 Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Florida , Gainesville, Florida.,4 J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida , Gainesville, Florida.,5 Institute of Cellular Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, University of Florida , Gainesville, Florida
| | - Josephine B Allen
- 1 Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Florida , Gainesville, Florida.,5 Institute of Cellular Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, University of Florida , Gainesville, Florida
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86
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Song Y, Margolles-Clark E, Bayer A, Buchwald P. Small-molecule modulators of the OX40-OX40 ligand co-stimulatory protein-protein interaction. Br J Pharmacol 2015; 171:4955-69. [PMID: 24930776 DOI: 10.1111/bph.12819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2013] [Revised: 04/22/2014] [Accepted: 06/07/2014] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The OX40-OX40L protein-protein interaction (PPI) is an important cell-surface signalling co-stimulatory regulator within the TNFR superfamily (TNFRSF) and a promising therapeutic target for immunomodulation. PPIs are difficult to modulate using small-molecules. Here, we describe the identification of a small-molecule OX40 modulator and confirm its partial agonist character. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Cell-free screening assays were developed and used to identify OX40-OX40L inhibitors. Modified versions of this assay were used to elucidate the binding partner and the binding nature of active compounds. OX40-transfected sensor cells with NF-κB reporters were constructed and used to confirm and characterize activity and specificity. Immunomodulatory activity and partial agonist nature were further confirmed by ex vivo T-cell polarization assays. KEY RESULTS Several compounds that concentration-dependently affected OX40-OX40L were identified. Cell assays indicated that they were partial agonists with low micromolar potency and adequate selectivity. Under polarizing conditions based on TGF-β, the most promising compound mimicked the effect of an agonistic anti-OX40 antibody in suppressing regulatory T-cell generation and diverting CD4(+) CD62L(+) Foxp3(-) cells to TH 9 phenotype in vitro. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS We identified, to our knowledge, the first small-molecule compounds able to interfere with OX40-OX40L binding and, more importantly, to act as partial agonists of OX40. This is particularly interesting, as small-molecule agonism or activation of PPIs is considered unusually challenging and there are only few known examples. These results provide proof-of-principle evidence for the feasibility of small-molecule modulation of the OX40-OX40L interaction and for the existence of partial agonists for TNFRSF-PPIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Song
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
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87
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Sanmamed MF, Pastor F, Rodriguez A, Perez-Gracia JL, Rodriguez-Ruiz ME, Jure-Kunkel M, Melero I. Agonists of Co-stimulation in Cancer Immunotherapy Directed Against CD137, OX40, GITR, CD27, CD28, and ICOS. Semin Oncol 2015; 42:640-55. [PMID: 26320067 DOI: 10.1053/j.seminoncol.2015.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 161] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
T and natural killer (NK) lymphocytes are considered the main effector players in the immune response against tumors. Full activation of T and NK lymphocytes requires the coordinated participation of several surface receptors that meet their cognate ligands through structured transient cell-to-cell interactions known as immune synapses. In the case of T cells, the main route of stimulation is driven by antigens as recognized in the form of short polypeptides associated with major histocompatibility complex (MHC) antigen-presenting molecules. However, the functional outcome of T-cell stimulation towards clonal expansion and effector function acquisition is contingent on the contact of additional surface receptor-ligand pairs and on the actions of cytokines in the milieu. While some of those interactions are inhibitory, others are activating and are collectively termed co-stimulatory receptors. The best studied belong to either the immunoglobulin superfamily or the tumor necrosis factor-receptor (TNFR) family. Co-stimulatory receptors include surface moieties that are constitutively expressed on resting lymphocytes such as CD28 or CD27 and others whose expression is induced upon recent previous antigen priming, ie, CD137, GITR, OX40, and ICOS. Ligation of these glycoproteins with agonist antibodies actively conveys activating signals to the lymphocyte. Those signals, acting through a potentiation of the cellular immune response, give rise to anti-tumor effects in mouse models. Anti-CD137 antibodies are undergoing clinical trials with evidence of clinical activity and anti-OX40 monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) induce interesting immunomodulation effects in humans. Antibodies anti-CD27 and GITR have recently entered clinical trials. The inherent dangers of these immunomodulation strategies are the precipitation of excessive systemic inflammation or/and invigorating silent autoimmunity. Agonist antibodies, recombinant forms of the natural ligands, and polynucleotide-based aptamers constitute the pharmacologic tools to manipulate such receptors. Preclinical data suggest that the greatest potential of these agents is achieved in combined treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel F Sanmamed
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT.
| | - Fernando Pastor
- Centro de investigación médica aplicada (CIMA), Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Alfonso Rodriguez
- Centro de investigación médica aplicada (CIMA), Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | | | | | | | - Ignacio Melero
- Centro de investigación médica aplicada (CIMA), Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain; Department of Oncology, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain.
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88
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Stoll H, Kiessling H, Stelzle M, Wendel HP, Schütte J, Hagmeyer B, Avci-Adali M. Microfluidic chip system for the selection and enrichment of cell binding aptamers. BIOMICROFLUIDICS 2015; 9:034111. [PMID: 26180568 PMCID: PMC4474950 DOI: 10.1063/1.4922544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2015] [Accepted: 06/03/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Aptamers are promising cell targeting ligands for several applications such as for the diagnosis, therapy, and drug delivery. Especially, in the field of regenerative medicine, stem cell specific aptamers have an enormous potential. Using the combinatorial chemistry process SELEX (Systematic Evolution of Ligands by Exponential enrichment), aptamers are selected from a huge oligonucleotide library consisting of approximately 10(15) different oligonucleotides. Here, we developed a microfluidic chip system that can be used for the selection of cell specific aptamers. The major drawbacks of common cell-SELEX methods are the inefficient elimination of the unspecifically bound oligonucleotides from the cell surface and the unspecific binding/uptake of oligonucleotides by dead cells. To overcome these obstacles, a microfluidic device, which enables the simultaneous performance of dielectrophoresis and electrophoresis in the same device, was designed. Using this system, viable cells can be selectively assembled by dielectrophoresis between the electrodes and then incubated with the oligonucleotides. To reduce the rate of unspecifically bound sequences, electrophoretic fields can be applied in order to draw loosely bound oligonucleotides away from the cells. Furthermore, by increasing the flow rate in the chip during the iterative rounds of SELEX, the selection pressure can be improved and aptamers with higher affinities and specificities can be obtained. This new microfluidic device has a tremendous capability to improve the cell-SELEX procedure and to select highly specific aptamers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidi Stoll
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, University Hospital Tuebingen , Calwerstraße 7/1, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Heiko Kiessling
- BioMEMS and Sensors Department, Natural and Medical Sciences Institute at the University of Tübingen , Markwiesenstraße 55, 72770 Reutlingen, Germany
| | - Martin Stelzle
- BioMEMS and Sensors Department, Natural and Medical Sciences Institute at the University of Tübingen , Markwiesenstraße 55, 72770 Reutlingen, Germany
| | - Hans Peter Wendel
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, University Hospital Tuebingen , Calwerstraße 7/1, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Julia Schütte
- BioMEMS and Sensors Department, Natural and Medical Sciences Institute at the University of Tübingen , Markwiesenstraße 55, 72770 Reutlingen, Germany
| | - Britta Hagmeyer
- BioMEMS and Sensors Department, Natural and Medical Sciences Institute at the University of Tübingen , Markwiesenstraße 55, 72770 Reutlingen, Germany
| | - Meltem Avci-Adali
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, University Hospital Tuebingen , Calwerstraße 7/1, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany
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89
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Linch SN, McNamara MJ, Redmond WL. OX40 Agonists and Combination Immunotherapy: Putting the Pedal to the Metal. Front Oncol 2015; 5:34. [PMID: 25763356 PMCID: PMC4329814 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2015.00034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 173] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2014] [Accepted: 01/30/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have highlighted the therapeutic efficacy of immunotherapy, a class of cancer treatments that utilize the patient’s own immune system to destroy cancerous cells. Within a tumor the presence of a family of negative regulatory molecules, collectively known as “checkpoint inhibitors,” can inhibit T cell function to suppress anti-tumor immunity. Checkpoint inhibitors, such as CTLA-4 and PD-1, attenuate T cell proliferation and cytokine production. Targeted blockade of CTLA-4 or PD-1 with antagonist monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) releases the “brakes” on T cells to boost anti-tumor immunity. Generating optimal “killer” CD8 T cell responses also requires T cell receptor activation plus co-stimulation, which can be provided through ligation of tumor necrosis factor receptor family members, including OX40 (CD134) and 4-1BB (CD137). OX40 is of particular interest as treatment with an activating (agonist) anti-OX40 mAb augments T cell differentiation and cytolytic function leading to enhanced anti-tumor immunity against a variety of tumors. When used as single agents, these drugs can induce potent clinical and immunologic responses in patients with metastatic disease. However, each of these agents only benefits a subset of patients, highlighting the critical need for more effective combinatorial therapeutic strategies. In this review, we will discuss our current understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which OX40 agonists synergize with checkpoint inhibitor blockade to augment T cell-mediated anti-tumor immunity and the potential opportunities for clinical translation of combinatorial immunotherapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie N Linch
- Robert W. Franz Cancer Research Center, Earle A. Chiles Research Institute, Providence Portland Medical Center , Portland, OR , USA
| | - Michael J McNamara
- Robert W. Franz Cancer Research Center, Earle A. Chiles Research Institute, Providence Portland Medical Center , Portland, OR , USA
| | - William L Redmond
- Robert W. Franz Cancer Research Center, Earle A. Chiles Research Institute, Providence Portland Medical Center , Portland, OR , USA
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90
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Avci-Adali M, Mludek K, Perle N, Stoll H, Schlensak C, Wendel HP. Importance of rigorous in vitro evaluation of prospective cell binding aptamers. Nucleic Acid Ther 2014; 24:250-7. [PMID: 25054517 DOI: 10.1089/nat.2014.0487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hitherto, several aptamers have been selected against cell surface molecules. The use of these aptamers for in vivo applications requires the prior in-depth in vitro evaluation of cell specific binding. Here, we demonstrate the in vitro tests, which are imperatively necessary to evaluate aptamers prior to in vivo applications. Exemplarily, the target binding of a chemically synthesized model aptamer containing phosphorothioate linkages was tested after the induction of the target protein expression on the cell surface by using flow cytometry. Furthermore, different cell types were used to compare the binding of the aptamer. Different single stranded DNA oligonucleotides were selected as negative controls to evaluate sequence specific binding of the aptamer to the cells. In further experiments, the aptamer binding to the target cells was determined in a mixture containing human plasma and peripheral blood cells to simulate the binding of the aptamer to target cells in human whole blood. In this study, we demonstrated the compelling necessity of the in vitro binding tests with the selected aptamers using target and non-target cells, the use of appropriate nonsense aptamers to validate the sequence specific binding of aptamers, and the evaluation of target binding in human plasma containing blood proteins and cells. Thus, we recommend the use of described methods to validate the target specific binding of newly selected aptamers prior to in vivo applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meltem Avci-Adali
- Department of Thoracic, Cardiac, and Vascular Surgery, University Hospital Tuebingen , Tuebingen, Germany
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91
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Wiraja C, Yeo D, Lio D, Labanieh L, Lu M, Zhao W, Xu C. Aptamer technology for tracking cells' status & function. MOLECULAR AND CELLULAR THERAPIES 2014; 2:33. [PMID: 26056599 PMCID: PMC4452066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2014] [Accepted: 10/16/2014] [Indexed: 11/21/2023]
Abstract
In fields such as cancer biology and regenerative medicine, obtaining information regarding cell bio-distribution, tropism, status, and other cellular functions are highly desired. Understanding cancer behaviors including metastasis is important for developing effective cancer treatments, while assessing the fate of therapeutic cells following implantation is critical to validate the efficacy and efficiency of the therapy. For visualization purposes with medical imaging modalities (e.g. magnetic resonance imaging), cells can be labeled with contrast agents (e.g. iron-oxide nanoparticles), which allows their identification from the surrounding environment. Despite the success of revealing cell biodistribution in vivo, most of the existing agents do not provide information about the status and functions of cells following transplantation. The emergence of aptamers, single-stranded RNA or DNA oligonucleotides of 15 to 60 bases in length, is a promising solution to address this need. When aptamers bind specifically to their cognate molecules, they undergo conformational changes which can be transduced into a change of imaging contrast (e.g. optical, magnetic resonance). Thus by monitoring this signal change, researchers can obtain information about the expression of the target molecules (e.g. mRNA, surface markers, cell metabolites), which offer clues regarding cell status/function in a non-invasive manner. In this review, we summarize recent efforts to utilize aptamers as biosensors for monitoring the status and function of transplanted cells. We focus on cancer cell tracking for cancer study, stem cell tracking for regenerative medicine, and immune cell (e.g. dendritic cells) tracking for immune therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Wiraja
- />Division of Bioengineering, School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 70 Nanyang Drive, Singapore, 637457 Singapore
| | - David Yeo
- />Division of Bioengineering, School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 70 Nanyang Drive, Singapore, 637457 Singapore
| | - Daniel Lio
- />Division of Bioengineering, School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 70 Nanyang Drive, Singapore, 637457 Singapore
| | - Louai Labanieh
- />Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697 USA
- />Department of Biomedical Engineering, Edwards Lifesciences Center for Advanced Cardiovascular Technology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697 USA
| | - Mengrou Lu
- />Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697 USA
- />Department of Biomedical Engineering, Edwards Lifesciences Center for Advanced Cardiovascular Technology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697 USA
| | - Weian Zhao
- />Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697 USA
- />Department of Biomedical Engineering, Edwards Lifesciences Center for Advanced Cardiovascular Technology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697 USA
| | - Chenjie Xu
- />Division of Bioengineering, School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 70 Nanyang Drive, Singapore, 637457 Singapore
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92
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Wiraja C, Yeo D, Lio D, Labanieh L, Lu M, Zhao W, Xu C. Aptamer technology for tracking cells' status & function. MOLECULAR AND CELLULAR THERAPIES 2014; 2:33. [PMID: 26056599 PMCID: PMC4452066 DOI: 10.1186/2052-8426-2-33] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2014] [Accepted: 10/16/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
In fields such as cancer biology and regenerative medicine, obtaining information regarding cell bio-distribution, tropism, status, and other cellular functions are highly desired. Understanding cancer behaviors including metastasis is important for developing effective cancer treatments, while assessing the fate of therapeutic cells following implantation is critical to validate the efficacy and efficiency of the therapy. For visualization purposes with medical imaging modalities (e.g. magnetic resonance imaging), cells can be labeled with contrast agents (e.g. iron-oxide nanoparticles), which allows their identification from the surrounding environment. Despite the success of revealing cell biodistribution in vivo, most of the existing agents do not provide information about the status and functions of cells following transplantation. The emergence of aptamers, single-stranded RNA or DNA oligonucleotides of 15 to 60 bases in length, is a promising solution to address this need. When aptamers bind specifically to their cognate molecules, they undergo conformational changes which can be transduced into a change of imaging contrast (e.g. optical, magnetic resonance). Thus by monitoring this signal change, researchers can obtain information about the expression of the target molecules (e.g. mRNA, surface markers, cell metabolites), which offer clues regarding cell status/function in a non-invasive manner. In this review, we summarize recent efforts to utilize aptamers as biosensors for monitoring the status and function of transplanted cells. We focus on cancer cell tracking for cancer study, stem cell tracking for regenerative medicine, and immune cell (e.g. dendritic cells) tracking for immune therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Wiraja
- />Division of Bioengineering, School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 70 Nanyang Drive, Singapore, 637457 Singapore
| | - David Yeo
- />Division of Bioengineering, School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 70 Nanyang Drive, Singapore, 637457 Singapore
| | - Daniel Lio
- />Division of Bioengineering, School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 70 Nanyang Drive, Singapore, 637457 Singapore
| | - Louai Labanieh
- />Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697 USA
- />Department of Biomedical Engineering, Edwards Lifesciences Center for Advanced Cardiovascular Technology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697 USA
| | - Mengrou Lu
- />Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697 USA
- />Department of Biomedical Engineering, Edwards Lifesciences Center for Advanced Cardiovascular Technology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697 USA
| | - Weian Zhao
- />Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697 USA
- />Department of Biomedical Engineering, Edwards Lifesciences Center for Advanced Cardiovascular Technology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697 USA
| | - Chenjie Xu
- />Division of Bioengineering, School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 70 Nanyang Drive, Singapore, 637457 Singapore
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93
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Abstract
In recent years aptamers, synthetic DNA or RNA single-chain oligonucleotides, have been used in various immunological studies to bind specific ligands. Detailed data on the interactions of an RNA aptamer with a human Fc fragment were obtained by X-ray crystallography. The complex formation involves multiple weak interactions that resemble protein-protein interactions. Aptamers specific to cell surface receptors may serve as antagonists or agonists blocking or stimulating cell activities. As aptamers can modify T-cell reactions, they could be useful in the treatment of chronic diseases such as autoimmune and oncological pathologies. In chimeras constructed for the delivery of active substances to defined targets, aptamers specific to surface proteins may be used to transport constructs directed to targets such as tumor cells. Aptamers are also employed as highly specific reagents in immunological assays after being labeled with reporter groups such as fluorescent dyes or following immobilization on insoluble carriers such as membranes or microspheres.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roald Nezlin
- Department of Immunology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 7610001, Israel.
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94
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Agonistic CD200R1 DNA Aptamers Are Potent Immunosuppressants That Prolong Allogeneic Skin Graft Survival. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2014; 3:e190. [PMID: 25158092 PMCID: PMC4221601 DOI: 10.1038/mtna.2014.41] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2014] [Accepted: 07/16/2014] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
CD200R1 expressed on the surface of myeloid and lymphoid cells delivers immune inhibitory signals to modulate inflammation when engaged with its ligand CD200. Signalling through CD200/CD200R1 has been implicated in a number of immune-related diseases including allergy, infection, cancer and transplantation, as well as several autoimmune disorders including arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and multiple sclerosis. We report the development and characterization of DNA aptamers, which bind to murine CD200R1 and act as potent signalling molecules in the absence of exogenous CD200. These agonistic aptamers suppress cytotoxic T-lymphocyte induction in 5-day allogeneic mixed leukocyte culture and induce rapid phosphorylation of the CD200R1 cytoplasmic tail thereby initiating immune inhibitory signalling. PEGylated conjugates of these aptamers show significant in vivo immunosuppression and enhance survival of allogeneic skin grafts as effectively as soluble CD200Fc. As DNA aptamers exhibit inherent advantages over conventional protein-based therapeutics including low immunogenicity, ease of synthesis, low cost, and long shelf life, such CD200R1 agonistic aptamers may emerge as useful and safe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory therapeutic agents.
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95
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Wengerter BC, Katakowski JA, Rosenberg JM, Park CG, Almo SC, Palliser D, Levy M. Aptamer-targeted antigen delivery. Mol Ther 2014; 22:1375-1387. [PMID: 24682172 PMCID: PMC4089008 DOI: 10.1038/mt.2014.51] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2013] [Accepted: 03/19/2014] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Effective therapeutic vaccines often require activation of T cell-mediated immunity. Robust T cell activation, including CD8 T cell responses, can be achieved using antibodies or antibody fragments to direct antigens of interest to professional antigen presenting cells. This approach represents an important advance in enhancing vaccine efficacy. Nucleic acid aptamers present a promising alternative to protein-based targeting approaches. We have selected aptamers that specifically bind the murine receptor, DEC205, a C-type lectin expressed predominantly on the surface of CD8α+ dendritic cells (DCs) that has been shown to be efficient at facilitating antigen crosspresentation and subsequent CD8+ T cell activation. Using a minimized aptamer conjugated to the model antigen ovalbumin (OVA), DEC205-targeted antigen crosspresentation was verified in vitro and in vivo by proliferation and cytokine production by primary murine CD8+ T cells expressing a T cell receptor specific for the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) I-restricted OVA257–264 peptide SIINFEKL. Compared with a nonspecific ribonucleic acid (RNA) of similar length, DEC205 aptamer-OVA-mediated antigen delivery stimulated strong proliferation and production of interferon (IFN)-γ and interleukin (IL)-2. The immune responses elicited by aptamer-OVA conjugates were sufficient to inhibit the growth of established OVA-expressing B16 tumor cells. Our results demonstrate a new application of aptamer technology for the development of effective T cell-mediated vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian C Wengerter
- Department of Biochemistry, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Joseph A Katakowski
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Jacob M Rosenberg
- Laboratory of Cellular Physiology and Immunology, Rockefeller University, New York, New York, USA; Current address: Department of Medicine, Division of Immunology and Rheumatology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Chae Gyu Park
- Laboratory of Cellular Physiology and Immunology, Rockefeller University, New York, New York, USA; Current address: Laboratory of Immunology, Severance Biomedical Science Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Steven C Almo
- Department of Biochemistry, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Deborah Palliser
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA.
| | - Matthew Levy
- Department of Biochemistry, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA.
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Kong HY, Byun J. Nucleic Acid aptamers: new methods for selection, stabilization, and application in biomedical science. Biomol Ther (Seoul) 2014; 21:423-34. [PMID: 24404332 PMCID: PMC3879913 DOI: 10.4062/biomolther.2013.085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 128] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2013] [Revised: 11/05/2013] [Accepted: 11/05/2013] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The adoption of oligonucleotide aptamer is well on the rise, serving an ever increasing demand for versatility in biomedical field. Through the SELEX (Systematic Evolution of Ligands by EXponential enrichment), aptamer that can bind to specific target with high affinity and specificity can be obtained. Aptamers are single-stranded nucleic acid molecules that can fold into complex threedimensional structures, forming binding pockets and clefts for the specific recognition and tight binding of any given molecular target. Recently, aptamers have attracted much attention because they not only have all of the advantages of antibodies, but also have unique merits such as thermal stability, ease of synthesis, reversibility, and little immunogenicity. The advent of novel technologies is revolutionizing aptamer applications. Aptamers can be easily modified by various chemical reactions to introduce functional groups and/or nucleotide extensions. They can also be conjugated to therapeutic molecules such as drugs, drug containing carriers, toxins, or photosensitizers. Here, we discuss new SELEX strategies and stabilization methods as well as applications in drug delivery and molecular imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hoon Young Kong
- Department of Molecular Biology, Institute of Nanosensor and Biotechnology, Dankook University, Yongin 448-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Jonghoe Byun
- Department of Molecular Biology, Institute of Nanosensor and Biotechnology, Dankook University, Yongin 448-701, Republic of Korea
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Meyer C, Berg K, Eydeler-Haeder K, Lorenzen I, Grötzinger J, Rose-John S, Hahn U. Stabilized Interleukin-6 receptor binding RNA aptamers. RNA Biol 2013; 11:57-65. [PMID: 24440854 DOI: 10.4161/rna.27447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a multifunctional cytokine that is involved in the progression of various inflammatory diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and certain cancers; for example, multiple myeloma or hepatocellular carcinoma. To interfere with IL-6-dependent diseases, targeting IL-6 receptor (IL-6R)-presenting tumor cells using aptamers might be a valuable strategy to broaden established IL-6- or IL-6R-directed treatment regimens. Recently, we reported on the in vitro selection of RNA aptamers binding to the human IL-6 receptor (IL-6R) with nanomolar affinity. One aptamer, namely AIR-3A, was 19 nt in size and able to deliver bulky cargos into IL-6R-presenting cells. As AIR-3A is a natural RNA molecule, its use for in vivo applications might be limited due to its susceptibility to ubiquitous ribonucleases. Aiming at more robust RNA aptamers targeting IL-6R, we now report on the generation of stabilized RNA aptamers for potential in vivo applications. The new 2'-F-modified RNA aptamers bind to IL-6R via its extracellular portion with low nanomolar affinity comparable to the previously identified unmodified counterpart. Aptamers do not interfere with the IL-6 receptor complex formation. The work described here represents one further step to potentially apply stabilized IL-6R-binding RNA aptamers in IL-6R-connected diseases, like multiple myeloma and hepatocellular carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cindy Meyer
- Laboratory of RNA Molecular Biology; Howard Hughes Medical Institute; The Rockefeller University; New York, NY USA
| | - Katharina Berg
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology; Chemistry Department; MIN-Faculty; Hamburg University; Hamburg, Germany
| | - Katja Eydeler-Haeder
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology; Chemistry Department; MIN-Faculty; Hamburg University; Hamburg, Germany
| | - Inken Lorenzen
- Institute of Biochemistry; Medical Faculty; Christian-Albrechts-University; Kiel, Germany
| | - Joachim Grötzinger
- Institute of Biochemistry; Medical Faculty; Christian-Albrechts-University; Kiel, Germany
| | - Stefan Rose-John
- Institute of Biochemistry; Medical Faculty; Christian-Albrechts-University; Kiel, Germany
| | - Ulrich Hahn
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology; Chemistry Department; MIN-Faculty; Hamburg University; Hamburg, Germany
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Gilboa E, McNamara J, Pastor F. Use of oligonucleotide aptamer ligands to modulate the function of immune receptors. Clin Cancer Res 2013; 19:1054-62. [PMID: 23460536 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-12-2067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The paucity of costimulation at the tumor site compromises the ability of tumor-specific T cells to eliminate the tumor. The recent U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval of ipilumimab, an antibody that blocks the inhibitory action of CTLA-4, and clinical trials targeting 4-1BB and PD-1 or PD-L1, have underscored the therapeutic potential of using immunomodulatory antibodies to stimulate protective immunity in human patients. Nonetheless, systemic administration of immunomodulatory antibodies has been associated with dose-limiting autoimmune pathologies, conceivably reflecting also the activation of resident autoreactive T cells. Arguably, targeting immunomodulatory ligands to the disseminated tumor lesions of the patient would reduce such drug-associated toxicities. We have recently developed a new class of inhibitory (CTLA-4) and agonistic (4-1BB and OX-40) ligands composed of short oligonucleotide (ODN) aptamers that exhibited bioactivities comparable or superior to that of antibodies. To reduce toxicity, the immunomodulatory aptamers were targeted to the tumor by conjugation to a second aptamer that bound to a product expressed on the surface of the tumor cell, the targeting aptamer, generating a bispecific aptamer conjugate analogous to bispecific antibodies. In a proof-of-concept study in mice, we have shown that an agonistic 4-1BB-binding aptamer conjugated to a prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA)-binding aptamer led to the inhibition of PSMA-expressing tumors, was more effective than, and synergized with, vaccination, and exhibited a superior therapeutic index compared with nontargeted costimulation with 4-1BB antibodies or 4-1BB aptamers. The cell-free chemically synthesized ODN aptamers offer significant advantages over antibodies in terms of synthesis, cost, as well as conjugation chemistry needed to generate bispecific ligand fusions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eli Gilboa
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Dodson Interdisciplinary Immunotherapy Institute and the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida 33136, USA.
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Abstract
CD28 is one of the main costimulatory receptors responsible for the proper activation of T lymphocytes. We have isolated two aptamers that bind to the CD28 receptor. As a monomer, one of them interfered with the binding of CD28 to its ligand (B7), precluding the costimulatory signal, whereas the other one was inactive. However, dimerization of any of the anti-CD28 aptamers was sufficient to provide an artificial costimulatory signal. No antibody has featured a dual function (i.e., the ability to work as agonist and antagonist) to date. Two different agonistic structures were engineered for each anti-CD28 aptamer. One showed remarkably improved costimulatory properties, surpassing the agonistic effect of an anti-CD28 antibody. Moreover, we showed in vivo that the CD28 agonistic aptamer is capable of enhancing the cellular immune response against a lymphoma idiotype and of prolonging survival of mice which receive the aptamer together with an idiotype vaccine. The CD28 aptamers described in this work could be used to modulate the immune response either blocking the interaction with B7 or enhancing vaccine-induced immune responses in cancer immunotherapy.Molecular Therapy - Nucleic Acids (2013) 2, e98; doi:10.1038/mtna.2013.26; published online 11 June 2013.
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