1
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Hassanel DNBP, Pilkington EH, Ju Y, Kent SJ, Pouton CW, Truong NP. Replacing poly(ethylene glycol) with RAFT lipopolymers in mRNA lipid nanoparticle systems for effective gene delivery. Int J Pharm 2024; 665:124695. [PMID: 39288840 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2024.124695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2024] [Revised: 08/07/2024] [Accepted: 09/09/2024] [Indexed: 09/19/2024]
Abstract
Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) have emerged as promising carriers to efficiently transport mRNA into cells for protein translation, as seen with the mRNA vaccines used against COVID-19. However, they contain a widely used polymer - poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) - which lacks the functionality to be easily modified (which could effectively control the physicochemical properties of the LNPs such as its charge), and is also known to be immunogenic. Thus, it is desirable to explore alternative polymers which can replace the PEG component in mRNA LNP vaccines and therapeutics, while still maintaining their efficacy. Herein, we employed reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerisation to synthesise five PEG-lipid alternatives that could stabilise LNPs encapsulating mRNA or pDNA molecules. Importantly, the resultant RAFT lipopolymer LNPs exhibit analogous or higher in vivo gene expression and antigen-specific antibody production compared to traditional PEG-based formulations. Our synthesis strategy which allows the introduction of positive charges along the lipopolymer backbone also significantly improved the in vivo gene expression. This work expands the potential of RAFT polymer-conjugated LNPs as promising mRNA carriers and offers an innovative strategy for the development of PEG-free mRNA vaccines and therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Emily H Pilkington
- Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, 399 Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth St, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
| | - Yi Ju
- Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth St, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia; School of Science and School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, 264 Plenty Rd, Mill Park, VIC 3083, Australia
| | - Stephen J Kent
- Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth St, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
| | - Colin W Pouton
- Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, 399 Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Nghia P Truong
- Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, 399 Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia.
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2
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Giraldo-Castaño MC, Littlejohn KA, Avecilla ARC, Barrera-Villamizar N, Quiroz FG. Programmability and biomedical utility of intrinsically-disordered protein polymers. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2024; 212:115418. [PMID: 39094909 PMCID: PMC11389844 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2024.115418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2024] [Revised: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
Intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs) exhibit molecular-level conformational dynamics that are functionally harnessed across a wide range of fascinating biological phenomena. The low sequence complexity of IDPs has led to the design and development of intrinsically-disordered protein polymers (IDPPs), a class of engineered repeat IDPs with stimuli-responsive properties. The perfect repetitive architecture of IDPPs allows for repeat-level encoding of tunable protein functionality. Designer IDPPs can be modeled on endogenous IDPs or engineered de novo as protein polymers with dual biophysical and biological functionality. Their properties can be rationally tailored to access enigmatic IDP biology and to create programmable smart biomaterials. With the goal of inspiring the bioengineering of multifunctional IDP-based materials, here we synthesize recent multidisciplinary progress in programming and exploiting the bio-functionality of IDPPs and IDPP-containing proteins. Collectively, expanding beyond the traditional sequence space of extracellular IDPs, emergent sequence-level control of IDPP functionality is fueling the bioengineering of self-assembling biomaterials, advanced drug delivery systems, tissue scaffolds, and biomolecular condensates -genetically encoded organelle-like structures. Looking forward, we emphasize open challenges and emerging opportunities, arguing that the intracellular behaviors of IDPPs represent a rich space for biomedical discovery and innovation. Combined with the intense focus on IDP biology, the growing landscape of IDPPs and their biomedical applications set the stage for the accelerated engineering of high-value biotechnologies and biomaterials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Camila Giraldo-Castaño
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Kai A Littlejohn
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Alexa Regina Chua Avecilla
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Natalia Barrera-Villamizar
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Felipe Garcia Quiroz
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.
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3
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Pavón C, Benetti EM, Lorandi F. Polymer Brushes on Nanoparticles for Controlling the Interaction with Protein-Rich Physiological Media. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2024; 40:11843-11857. [PMID: 38787578 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.4c00956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
The interaction of nanoparticles (NPs) with biological environments triggers the formation of a protein corona (PC), which significantly influences their behavior in vivo. This review explores the evolving understanding of PC formation, focusing on the opportunity for decreasing or suppressing protein-NP interactions by macromolecular engineering of NP shells. The functionalization of NPs with a dense, hydrated polymer brush shell is a powerful strategy for imparting stealth properties in order to elude recognition by the immune system. While poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) has been extensively used for this purpose, concerns regarding its stability and immunogenicity have prompted the exploration of alternative polymers. The stealth properties of brush shells can be enhanced by tailoring functionalities and structural parameters, including the molar mass, grafting density, and polymer topology. Determining correlations between these parameters and biopassivity has enabled us to obtain polymer-grafted NPs with high colloidal stability and prolonged circulation time in biological media.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Pavón
- Laboratory for Macromolecular and Organic Chemistry (MOC), Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Padova, Via Marzolo 1, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Edmondo M Benetti
- Laboratory for Macromolecular and Organic Chemistry (MOC), Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Padova, Via Marzolo 1, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Francesca Lorandi
- Laboratory for Macromolecular and Organic Chemistry (MOC), Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Padova, Via Marzolo 1, 35131 Padova, Italy
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4
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Pavón C, Ongaro A, Filipucci I, Ramakrishna SN, Mattarei A, Isa L, Klok HA, Lorandi F, Benetti EM. The Structural Dispersity of Oligoethylene Glycol-Containing Polymer Brushes Determines Their Interfacial Properties. J Am Chem Soc 2024. [PMID: 38859572 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c05565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
Ought to their bioinert properties and facile synthesis, poly[(oligoethylene glycol)methacrylate]s (POEGMAs) have been raised as attractive alternatives to poly(ethylene glycols) (PEGs) in an array of (bio)material applications, especially when they are applied as polymer brush coatings. However, commercially available OEG-methacrylate (macro)monomers feature a broad distribution of OEG lengths, thus generating structurally polydisperse POEGMAs when polymerized through reversible deactivation radical polymerization. Here, we demonstrate that the interfacial physicochemical properties of POEGMA brushes are significantly affected by their structural dispersity, i.e., the degree of heterogeneity in the length of side OEG segments. POEGMA brushes synthesized from discrete (macro)monomers obtained through chromatographic purification of commercial mixtures show increased hydration and reduced adhesion when compared to their structurally polydisperse analogues. The observed alteration of interfacial properties is directly linked to the presence of monodisperse OEG side chains, which hamper intramolecular and intermolecular hydrophobic interactions while simultaneously promoting the association of water molecules. These phenomena provide structurally homogeneous POEGMA brushes with a more lubricious and protein repellent character with respect to their heterogeneous counterparts. More generally, in contrast to what has been assumed until now, the properties of POEGMA brushes cannot be anticipated while ruling out the effect of dispersity by (macro)monomer feeds. Simultaneously, side chain dispersity of POEGMAs emerges as a critical parameter for determining the interfacial characteristics of brushes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Pavón
- Laboratory for Macromolecular and Organic Chemistry, Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Padova, via Marzolo 1, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Alberto Ongaro
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, via Marzolo 5, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Irene Filipucci
- Laboratory for Macromolecular and Organic Chemistry, Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Padova, via Marzolo 1, 35131 Padova, Italy
- Institut des Matériaux and Institut des Sciences et Ingénierie Chimiques, Laboratoire des Polymeres, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Rte Cantonale, CH-1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Shivaprakash N Ramakrishna
- Laboratory for Soft Materials and Interfaces, ETH Zürich, Vladmir-Prelog-Weg 1-5, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Andrea Mattarei
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, via Marzolo 5, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Lucio Isa
- Laboratory for Soft Materials and Interfaces, ETH Zürich, Vladmir-Prelog-Weg 1-5, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Harm-Anton Klok
- Institut des Matériaux and Institut des Sciences et Ingénierie Chimiques, Laboratoire des Polymeres, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Rte Cantonale, CH-1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Francesca Lorandi
- Laboratory for Macromolecular and Organic Chemistry, Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Padova, via Marzolo 1, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Edmondo M Benetti
- Laboratory for Macromolecular and Organic Chemistry, Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Padova, via Marzolo 1, 35131 Padova, Italy
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Zhang Y, Fang Z, Pan D, Li Y, Zhou J, Chen H, Li Z, Zhu M, Li C, Qin L, Ren X, Gong Q, Luo K. Dendritic Polymer-Based Nanomedicines Remodel the Tumor Stroma: Improve Drug Penetration and Enhance Antitumor Immune Response. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2401304. [PMID: 38469918 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202401304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2024] [Revised: 03/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
The dense extracellular matrix (ECM) in solid tumors, contributed by cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), hinders penetration of drugs and diminishes their therapeutic outcomes. A sequential treatment strategy of remodeling the ECM via a CAF modifier (dasatinib, DAS) is proposed to promote penetration of an immunogenic cell death (ICD) inducer (epirubicin, Epi) via apoptotic vesicles, ultimately enhancing the treatment efficacy against breast cancer. Dendritic poly(oligo(ethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate) (POEGMA)-based nanomedicines (poly[OEGMA-Dendron(G2)-Gly-Phe-Leu-Gly-DAS] (P-DAS) and poly[OEGMA-Dendron(G2)-hydrazone-Epi] (P-Epi)) are developed for sequential delivery of DAS and Epi, respectively. P-DAS reprograms CAFs to reduce collagen by downregulating collagen anabolism and energy metabolism, thereby reducing the ECM deposition. The regulated ECM can enhance tumor penetration of P-Epi to strengthen its ICD effect, leading to an amplified antitumor immune response. In breast cancer-bearing mice, this approach alleviates the ECM barrier, resulting in reduced tumor burden and increased cytotoxic T lymphocyte infiltration, and more encouragingly, synergizes effectively with anti-programmed cell death 1 (PD-1) therapy, significantly inhibiting tumor growth and preventing lung metastasis. Furthermore, systemic toxicity is barely detectable after sequential treatment with P-DAS and P-Epi. This approach opens a new avenue for treating desmoplastic tumors by metabolically targeting CAFs to overcome the ECM barrier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxin Zhang
- Department of Radiology, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Zaixiang Fang
- Department of Radiology, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Dayi Pan
- Department of Radiology, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yunkun Li
- Department of Radiology, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Jie Zhou
- Department of Radiology, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Hongying Chen
- Department of Radiology, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Zhiqian Li
- Department of Radiology, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Mengli Zhu
- Department of Radiology, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Cong Li
- Department of Radiology, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Liwen Qin
- Department of Radiology, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Xiangyi Ren
- Department of Radiology, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Qiyong Gong
- Department of Radiology, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
- Functional and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, and Research Unit of Psychoradiology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Chengdu, 610041, China
- Department of Radiology, West China Xiamen Hospital of Sichuan University, Xiamen, 361021, China
| | - Kui Luo
- Department of Radiology, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
- Functional and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, and Research Unit of Psychoradiology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Chengdu, 610041, China
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6
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Çalbaş B, Keobounnam AN, Korban C, Doratan AJ, Jean T, Sharma AY, Wright TA. Protein-polymer bioconjugation, immobilization, and encapsulation: a comparative review towards applicability, functionality, activity, and stability. Biomater Sci 2024; 12:2841-2864. [PMID: 38683585 DOI: 10.1039/d3bm01861j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
Polymer-based biomaterials have received a lot of attention due to their biomedical, agricultural, and industrial potential. Soluble protein-polymer bioconjugates, immobilized proteins, and encapsulated proteins have been shown to tune enzymatic activity, improved pharmacokinetic ability, increased chemical and thermal stability, stimuli responsiveness, and introduced protein recovery. Controlled polymerization techniques, increased protein-polymer attachment techniques, improved polymer surface grafting techniques, controlled polymersome self-assembly, and sophisticated characterization methods have been utilized for the development of well-defined polymer-based biomaterials. In this review we aim to provide a brief account of the field, compare these methods for engineering biomaterials, provide future directions for the field, and highlight impacts of these forms of bioconjugation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Berke Çalbaş
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Ashley N Keobounnam
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Christopher Korban
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Ainsley Jade Doratan
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Tiffany Jean
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Aryan Yashvardhan Sharma
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Thaiesha A Wright
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
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7
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Saha B, Lee JH, Kwon I, Chung H. Site-Specific Conjugation of Bottlebrush Polymers to Therapeutic Protein via Bioorthogonal Chemistry. Biomacromolecules 2024; 25:3200-3211. [PMID: 38591457 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.4c00359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
Achieving efficient and site-specific conjugation of therapeutic protein to polymer is crucial to augment their applicability in the realms of biomedicine by improving their stability and enzymatic activity. In this study, we exploited tetrazine bioorthogonal chemistry to achieve the site-specific conjugation of bottlebrush polymers to urate oxidase (UOX), a therapeutic protein for gout treatment. An azido-functionalized zwitterionic bottlebrush polymer (N3-ZBP) using a "grafting-from" strategy involving RAFT and ATRP methods was synthesized, and a trans-cyclooctene (TCO) moiety was introduced at the polymer end through the strain-promoted azide-alkyne click (SPAAC) reaction. The subsequent coupling between TCO-incorporated bottlebrush polymer and tetrazine-labeled UOX using a fast and safe bioorthogonal reaction, inverse electron demand Diels-Alder (IEDDA), led to the formation of UOX-ZBP conjugates with a 52% yield. Importantly, the enzymatic activity of UOX remained unaffected following polymer conjugation, suggesting a minimal change in the folded structure of UOX. Moreover, UOX-ZBP conjugates exhibited enhanced proteolytic resistance and reduced antibody binding, compared to UOX-wild type. Overall, the present findings reveal an efficient and straightforward route for synthesizing protein-bottlebrush polymer conjugates without compromising the enzymatic activity while substantially reducing proteolytic degradation and antibody binding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Biswajit Saha
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Tallahassee, Florida 32310, United States
| | - Jae Hun Lee
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST), Gwangju 61005, Republic of Korea
| | - Inchan Kwon
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST), Gwangju 61005, Republic of Korea
| | - Hoyong Chung
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Tallahassee, Florida 32310, United States
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8
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Singh A, Lofts A, Krishnan R, Campea M, Chen L, Wan Y, Hoare T. The effect of comb length on the in vitro and in vivo properties of self-assembled poly(oligoethylene glycol methacrylate)-based block copolymer nanoparticles. NANOSCALE ADVANCES 2024; 6:2487-2498. [PMID: 38694467 PMCID: PMC11059560 DOI: 10.1039/d3na01156a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024]
Abstract
Comb copolymer analogues of poly(lactic acid)-polyethylene glycol block copolymers (PLA-b-PEG) offer potential to overcome the inherent chemistry and stability limitations of their linear block copolymer counterparts. Herein, we examine the differences between P(L)LA10K-b-PEG10K and linear-comb copolymer analogues thereof in which the linear PEG block is replaced by poly(oligo(ethylene glycol) methacrylate) (POEGMA) blocks with different side chain (comb) lengths but the same overall molecular weight. P(L)LA10K-b-POEGMA47510K and P(L)LA10K-b-POEGMA200010K block copolymers were synthesized via activators regenerated by electron transfer atom transfer radical polymerization (ARGET ATRP) and fabricated into self-assembled nanoparticles using flash nanoprecipitation via confined impinging jet mixing. Linear-comb copolymer analogues based on PLA-b-POEGMA yielded smaller but still well-controlled nanoparticle sizes (88 ± 2 nm and 114 ± 1 nm respectively compared to 159 ± 2 nm for P(L)LA10K-b-PEG10K nanoparticles) that exhibited improved colloidal stability relative to linear copolymer-based nanoparticles over a 15 day incubation period while maintaining comparably high cytocompatibility, although the comb copolymer analogues had somewhat lower loading capacity for doxorubicin hydrochloride. Cell spheroid studies showed that the linear-comb copolymers promoted enhanced tumor transport and thus cell killing compared to conventional linear block copolymers. In vivo studies showed all NP types could passively accumulate within implanted CT26 tumors but with different accumulation profiles, with P(L)LA10K-b-POEGMA200010K NPs showing continuous accumulation throughout the full 24 h monitoring period whereas tumor accumulation of P(L)LA10K-b-POEGMA47510K NPs was significant only between 8 h and 24 h. Overall, the linear-comb copolymer analogues exhibited superior stability, biodistribution, spheroid penetration, and inherent tunability over linear NP counterparts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Singh
- Department of Chemical Engineering, McMaster University 1280 Main St. W. Hamilton Ontario L8S 4L7 Canada
| | - Andrew Lofts
- Department of Chemical Engineering, McMaster University 1280 Main St. W. Hamilton Ontario L8S 4L7 Canada
| | - Ramya Krishnan
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster University 1280 Main St. W. Hamilton Ontario L8S 4L7 Canada
| | - Matthew Campea
- Department of Chemical Engineering, McMaster University 1280 Main St. W. Hamilton Ontario L8S 4L7 Canada
| | - Lan Chen
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster University 1280 Main St. W. Hamilton Ontario L8S 4L7 Canada
| | - Yonghong Wan
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster University 1280 Main St. W. Hamilton Ontario L8S 4L7 Canada
| | - Todd Hoare
- Department of Chemical Engineering, McMaster University 1280 Main St. W. Hamilton Ontario L8S 4L7 Canada
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9
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Filipek K, Otulakowski Ł, Jelonek K, Utrata-Wesołek A. Degradable Nanogels Based on Poly[Oligo(Ethylene Glycol) Methacrylate] (POEGMA) Derivatives through Thermo-Induced Aggregation of Polymer Chain and Subsequent Chemical Crosslinking. Polymers (Basel) 2024; 16:1163. [PMID: 38675081 PMCID: PMC11054481 DOI: 10.3390/polym16081163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Polymer nanogels-considered as nanoscale hydrogel particles-are attractive for biological and biomedical applications due to their unique physicochemical flexibility. However, the aggregation or accumulation of nanoparticles in the body or the occurrence of the body's defense reactions still pose a research challenge. Here, we demonstrate the fabrication of degradable nanogels using thermoresponsive, cytocompatible poly[oligo(ethylene glycol) methacrylate]s-based copolymers (POEGMA). The combination of POEGMA's beneficial properties (switchable affinity to water, nontoxicity, non-immunogenicity) along with the possibility of nanogel degradation constitute an important approach from a biological point of view. The copolymers of oligo(ethylene glycol) methacrylates were partially modified with short segments of degradable oligo(lactic acid) (OLA) terminated with the acrylate group. Under the influence of temperature, copolymers formed self-assembled nanoparticles, so-called mesoglobules, with sizes of 140-1000 nm. The thermoresponsive behavior of the obtained copolymers and the nanostructure sizes depended on the heating rate and the presence of salts in the aqueous media. The obtained mesoglobules were stabilized by chemical crosslinking via thiol-acrylate Michael addition, leading to nanogels that degraded over time in water, as indicated by the DLS, cryo-TEM, and AFM measurements. Combining these findings with the lack of toxicity of the obtained systems towards human fibroblasts indicates their application potential.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Alicja Utrata-Wesołek
- Centre of Polymer and Carbon Materials, Polish Academy of Sciences, M. Curie-Skłodowskiej 34, 41-819 Zabrze, Poland
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10
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Wang Y, Jia X, An S, Yin W, Huang J, Jiang X. Nanozyme-Based Regulation of Cellular Metabolism and Their Applications. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2301810. [PMID: 37017586 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202301810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Metabolism is the sum of the enzyme-dependent chemical reactions, which produces energy in catabolic process and synthesizes biomass in anabolic process, exhibiting high similarity in mammalian cell, microbial cell, and plant cell. Consequently, the loss or gain of metabolic enzyme activity greatly affects cellular metabolism. Nanozymes, as emerging enzyme mimics with diverse functions and adjustable catalytic activities, have shown attractive potential for metabolic regulation. Although the basic metabolic tasks are highly similar for the cells from different species, the concrete metabolic pathway varies with the intracellular structure of different species. Here, the basic metabolism in living organisms is described and the similarities and differences in the metabolic pathways among mammalian, microbial, and plant cells and the regulation mechanism are discussed. The recent progress on regulation of cellular metabolism mainly including nutrient uptake and utilization, energy production, and the accompanied redox reactions by different kinds of oxidoreductases and their applications in the field of disease therapy, antimicrobial therapy, and sustainable agriculture is systematically reviewed. Furthermore, the prospects and challenges of nanozymes in regulating cell metabolism are also discussed, which broaden their application scenarios.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Electroanalytical Chemistry, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin, 130022, China
- Research Center for Analytical Sciences, College of Chemistry, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Xiaodan Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Electroanalytical Chemistry, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin, 130022, China
- Research Center for Analytical Sciences, College of Chemistry, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Shangjie An
- State Key Laboratory of Electroanalytical Chemistry, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin, 130022, China
- School of Applied Chemistry and Engineering, University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), Hefei, Anhui, 230026, China
| | - Wenbo Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Electroanalytical Chemistry, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin, 130022, China
- School of Applied Chemistry and Engineering, University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), Hefei, Anhui, 230026, China
| | - Jiahao Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Electroanalytical Chemistry, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin, 130022, China
- School of Applied Chemistry and Engineering, University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), Hefei, Anhui, 230026, China
| | - Xiue Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Electroanalytical Chemistry, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin, 130022, China
- School of Applied Chemistry and Engineering, University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), Hefei, Anhui, 230026, China
- Research Center for Analytical Sciences, College of Chemistry, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
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11
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Davis E, Caparco AA, Jones E, Steinmetz NF, Pokorski JK. Study of uricase-polynorbornene conjugates derived from grafting-from ring-opening metathesis polymerization. J Mater Chem B 2024; 12:2197-2206. [PMID: 38323642 DOI: 10.1039/d3tb02726k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
PEGylation has been the 'gold standard' in bioconjugation due to its ability to improve the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of native proteins. However, growing clinical evidence of hypersensitivity reactions to PEG due to pre-existing anti-PEG antibodies in healthy humans have raised concerns. Advancements in controlled polymerization techniques and conjugation chemistries have paved the way for the development of protein-polymer conjugates that can circumvent these adverse reactions while retaining the benefits of such modifications. Herein, we show the development of polynorbornene based bioconjugates of therapeutically relevant urate oxidase (UO) enzymes used in the treatment of gout synthesized by grafting-from ring-opening metathesis polymerization (ROMP). Notably, these conjugates exhibit comparable levels of bioactivity to PEGylated UO and demonstrate increased stability across varying temperatures and pH conditions. Immune recognition of conjugates by anti-UO antibodies reveal low protein immunogenicity following the conjugation process. Additionally, UO conjugates employing zwitterionic polynorbornene successfully avoid recognition by anti-PEG antibodies, further highlighting a potential replacement for PEG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabathe Davis
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA.
| | - Adam A Caparco
- Center for Nano-ImmunoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Elizabeth Jones
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA.
| | - Nicole F Steinmetz
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA.
- Center for Nano-ImmunoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
- Institute for Materials Discovery and Design, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
- Department of Radiology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
- Shu and K.C. Chien and Peter Farrell Collaboratory, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Jonathan K Pokorski
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA.
- Center for Nano-ImmunoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
- Institute for Materials Discovery and Design, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
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12
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Davis E, Caparco AA, Steinmetz NF, Pokorski JK. Poly(Oxanorbornene)-Protein Conjugates Prepared by Grafting-to ROMP as Alternatives for PEG. Macromol Biosci 2024; 24:e2300255. [PMID: 37688508 DOI: 10.1002/mabi.202300255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/11/2023]
Abstract
PEGylation is the gold standard in protein-polymer conjugation, improving circulation half-life of biologics while mitigating the immune response to a foreign substance. However, preexisting anti-PEG antibodies in healthy humans are becoming increasingly prevalent and elicitation of anti-PEG antibodies when patients are administered with PEGylated therapeutics challenges their safety profile. In the current study, two distinct amine-reactive poly(oxanorbornene) (PONB) imide-based water-soluble block co-polymers are synthesized using ring-opening metathesis polymerization (ROMP). The synthesized block-copolymers include PEG-based PONB-PEG and sulfobetaine-based PONB-Zwit. The polymers are then covalently conjugated to amine residues of lysozyme (Lyz) and urate oxidase (UO) using a grafting-to bioconjugation technique. Both Lyz-PONB and UO-PONB conjugates retained significant bioactivities after bioconjugation. Immune recognition studies of UO-PONB conjugates indicated a comparable lowering of protein immunogenicity when compared to PEGylated UO. PEG-specific immune recognition is negligible for UO-PONB-Zwit conjugates, as expected. These polymers provide a new alternative for PEG-based systems that retain high levels of activity for the biologic while showing improved immune recognition profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabathe Davis
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Adam A Caparco
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Nicole F Steinmetz
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
- Center for Nano-ImmunoEngineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
- Institute for Materials Discovery and Design, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
- Department of Radiology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Jonathan K Pokorski
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
- Center for Nano-ImmunoEngineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
- Institute for Materials Discovery and Design, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
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13
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Song X, Man J, Qiu Y, Wang J, Liu J, Li R, Zhang Y, Li J, Li J, Chen Y. Design, preparation, and characterization of lubricating polymer brushes for biomedical applications. Acta Biomater 2024; 175:76-105. [PMID: 38128641 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2023.12.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
The lubrication modification of biomedical devices significantly enhances the functionality of implanted interventional medical devices, thereby providing additional benefits for patients. Polymer brush coating provides a convenient and efficient method for surface modification while ensuring the preservation of the substrate's original properties. The current research has focused on a "trial and error" method to finding polymer brushes with superior lubricity qualities, which is time-consuming and expensive, as obtaining effective and long-lasting lubricity properties for polymer brushes is difficult. This review summarizes recent research advances in the biomedical field in the design, material selection, preparation, and characterization of lubricating and antifouling polymer brushes, which follow the polymer brush development process. This review begins by examining various approaches to polymer brush design, including molecular dynamics simulation and machine learning, from the fundamentals of polymer brush lubrication. Recent advancements in polymer brush design are then synthesized and potential avenues for future research are explored. Emphasis is placed on the burgeoning field of zwitterionic polymer brushes, and highlighting the broad prospects of supramolecular polymer brushes based on host-guest interactions in the field of self-repairing polymer brush applications. The review culminates by providing a summary of methodologies for characterizing the structural and functional attributes of polymer brushes. It is believed that a development approach for polymer brushes based on "design-material selection-preparation-characterization" can be created, easing the challenge of creating polymer brushes with high-performance lubricating qualities and enabling the on-demand creation of coatings. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Biomedical devices have severe lubrication modification needs, and surface lubrication modification by polymer brush coating is currently the most promising means. However, the design and preparation of polymer brushes often involves "iterative testing" to find polymer brushes with excellent lubrication properties, which is both time-consuming and expensive. This review proposes a polymer brush development process based on the "design-material selection-preparation-characterization" strategy and summarizes recent research advances and trends in the design, material selection, preparation, and characterization of polymer brushes. This review will help polymer brush researchers by alleviating the challenges of creating polymer brushes with high-performance lubricity and promises to enable the on-demand construction of polymer brush lubrication coatings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinzhong Song
- Key Laboratory of High Efficiency and Clean Mechanicalanufacture of Ministry of Education, School of Mechanical Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan 250061, PR China; Key National Demonstration Center for Experimental Mechanical Engineering Education, Shandong University, Jinan 250061, PR China
| | - Jia Man
- Key Laboratory of High Efficiency and Clean Mechanicalanufacture of Ministry of Education, School of Mechanical Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan 250061, PR China; Key National Demonstration Center for Experimental Mechanical Engineering Education, Shandong University, Jinan 250061, PR China.
| | - Yinghua Qiu
- Key Laboratory of High Efficiency and Clean Mechanicalanufacture of Ministry of Education, School of Mechanical Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan 250061, PR China; Key National Demonstration Center for Experimental Mechanical Engineering Education, Shandong University, Jinan 250061, PR China
| | - Jiali Wang
- Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan 250012, PR China
| | - Jianing Liu
- Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan 250012, PR China
| | - Ruijian Li
- Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan 250012, PR China
| | - Yongqi Zhang
- Key Laboratory of High Efficiency and Clean Mechanicalanufacture of Ministry of Education, School of Mechanical Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan 250061, PR China; Key National Demonstration Center for Experimental Mechanical Engineering Education, Shandong University, Jinan 250061, PR China
| | - Jianyong Li
- Key Laboratory of High Efficiency and Clean Mechanicalanufacture of Ministry of Education, School of Mechanical Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan 250061, PR China; Key National Demonstration Center for Experimental Mechanical Engineering Education, Shandong University, Jinan 250061, PR China
| | - Jianfeng Li
- Key Laboratory of High Efficiency and Clean Mechanicalanufacture of Ministry of Education, School of Mechanical Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan 250061, PR China; Key National Demonstration Center for Experimental Mechanical Engineering Education, Shandong University, Jinan 250061, PR China
| | - Yuguo Chen
- Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan 250012, PR China
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14
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Forgham H, Liu L, Davis TP, Qiao R. Antifouling surface coatings for the next generation of nanomedicine: toward in vivo immune evasion. Nanomedicine (Lond) 2023; 18:1997-2000. [PMID: 37982577 DOI: 10.2217/nnm-2023-0316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Helen Forgham
- Australian Institute of Bioengineering & Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, 4072, Australia
| | - Liwei Liu
- Australian Institute of Bioengineering & Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, 4072, Australia
| | - Thomas P Davis
- Australian Institute of Bioengineering & Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, 4072, Australia
| | - Ruirui Qiao
- Australian Institute of Bioengineering & Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, 4072, Australia
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15
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Zhang S, Sun Y, Zhang L, Zhang F, Gao W. Thermoresponsive Polypeptide Fused L-Asparaginase with Mitigated Immunogenicity and Enhanced Efficacy in Treating Hematologic Malignancies. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2300469. [PMID: 37271878 PMCID: PMC10427413 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202300469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
L-Asparaginase (ASP) is well-known for its excellent efficacy in treating hematological malignancies. Unfortunately, the intrinsic shortcomings of ASP, namely high immunogenicity, severe toxicity, short half-life, and poor stability, restrict its clinical usage. Poly(ethylene glycol) conjugation (PEGylation) of ASP is an effective strategy to address these issues, but it is not ideal in clinical applications due to complex chemical synthesis procedures, reduced ASP activity after conjugation, and pre-existing anti-PEG antibodies in humans. Herein, the authors genetically engineered an elastin-like polypeptide (ELP)-fused ASP (ASP-ELP), a core-shell structured tetramer predicted by AlphaFold2, to overcome the limitations of ASP and PEG-ASP. Notably, the unique thermosensitivity of ASP-ELP enables the in situ formation of a sustained-release depot post-injection with zero-order release kinetics over a long time. The in vitro and in vivo studies reveal that ASP-ELP possesses increased activity retention, improved stability, extended half-life, mitigated immunogenicity, reduced toxicity, and enhanced efficacy compared to ASP and PEG-ASP. Indeed, ASP-ELP treatment in leukemia or lymphoma mouse models of cell line-derived xenograft (CDX) shows potent anti-cancer effects with significantly prolonged survival. The findings also indicate that artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted genetic engineering is instructive in designing protein-polypeptide conjugates and may pave the way to develop next-generation biologics to enhance cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanke Zhang
- Institute of Medical TechnologyPeking University Health Science CenterPeking University School and Hospital of StomatologyBiomedical Engineering DepartmentPeking UniversityPeking University International Cancer InstitutePeking University‐Yunnan Baiyao International Medical Research CenterBeijing100191China
| | - Yuanzi Sun
- Institute of Medical TechnologyPeking University Health Science CenterPeking University School and Hospital of StomatologyBiomedical Engineering DepartmentPeking UniversityPeking University International Cancer InstitutePeking University‐Yunnan Baiyao International Medical Research CenterBeijing100191China
| | - Longshuai Zhang
- Institute of Medical TechnologyPeking University Health Science CenterPeking University School and Hospital of StomatologyBiomedical Engineering DepartmentPeking UniversityPeking University International Cancer InstitutePeking University‐Yunnan Baiyao International Medical Research CenterBeijing100191China
| | - Fan Zhang
- Institute of Medical TechnologyPeking University Health Science CenterPeking University School and Hospital of StomatologyBiomedical Engineering DepartmentPeking UniversityPeking University International Cancer InstitutePeking University‐Yunnan Baiyao International Medical Research CenterBeijing100191China
| | - Weiping Gao
- Institute of Medical TechnologyPeking University Health Science CenterPeking University School and Hospital of StomatologyBiomedical Engineering DepartmentPeking UniversityPeking University International Cancer InstitutePeking University‐Yunnan Baiyao International Medical Research CenterBeijing100191China
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16
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Fujii S. Polymeric core-crosslinked particles prepared via a nanoemulsion-mediated process: from particle design and structural characterization to in vivo behavior in chemotherapy. Polym J 2023; 55:1-13. [PMID: 37359987 PMCID: PMC10189226 DOI: 10.1038/s41428-023-00793-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Various polymeric nanoparticles have been used as drug carriers in drug delivery systems (DDSs). Most of them were constructed from dynamic self-assembly systems formed via hydrophobic interactions and from structures that are unstable in an in vivo environment owing to their relatively weak formation forces. As a solution to this issue, physically stabilized core-crosslinked particles (CP) with chemically crosslinked cores have received attention as alternatives to the dynamic nanoparticles. This focused review summarizes recent advances in the construction, structural characterization, and in vivo behavior of polymeric CPs. First, we introduce a nanoemulsion-mediated method to create polyethylene glycol (PEG)-bearing CPs and their structural characterization. The relationship between the PEG chain conformations in the particle shell and the in vivo fate of the CPs is also discussed. After that, the development and advantages of zwitterionic amino acid-based polymer (ZAP)-bearing CPs are presented to address the poor penetration and the internalization of PEG-based CPs into tumor tissues and cells, respectively. Finally, we conclude and discuss prospects for application of polymeric CPs in the DDS field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shota Fujii
- Polymer Science and Engineering Department, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003 USA
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17
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Sun Q, Yang Z, Qi X. Design and Application of Hybrid Polymer-Protein Systems in Cancer Therapy. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:polym15092219. [PMID: 37177365 PMCID: PMC10181109 DOI: 10.3390/polym15092219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Polymer-protein systems have excellent characteristics, such as non-toxic, non-irritating, good water solubility and biocompatibility, which makes them very appealing as cancer therapeutics agents. Inspiringly, they can achieve sustained release and targeted delivery of drugs, greatly improving the effect of cancer therapy and reducing side effects. However, many challenges, such as reducing the toxicity of materials, protecting the activities of proteins and controlling the release of proteins, still need to be overcome. In this review, the design of hybrid polymer-protein systems, including the selection of polymers and the bonding forms of polymer-protein systems, is presented. Meanwhile, vital considerations, including reaction conditions and the release of proteins in the design process, are addressed. Then, hybrid polymer-protein systems developed in the past decades for cancer therapy, including targeted therapy, gene therapy, phototherapy, immunotherapy and vaccine therapy, are summarized. Furthermore, challenges for the hybrid polymer-protein systems in cancer therapy are exemplified, and the perspectives of the field are covered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Sun
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
- Beijing Area Major Laboratory of Peptide and Small Molecular Drugs, Beijing 100069, China
- Engineering Research Center of Endogenous Prophylactic of Ministry of Education of China, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Zhenzhen Yang
- Drug Clinical Trial Center, Peking University Third Hospital, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
- Institute of Medical Innovation and Research, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Xianrong Qi
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
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18
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Zhou F, Li H, Liu Y, Deng H, Rong J, Zhao J. Hyaluronan derivative decorated calcium carbonate nanoparticle as a potential platform for breast cancer synergistic therapy via blood coagulation and drug delivery. J Drug Deliv Sci Technol 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jddst.2023.104406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/08/2023]
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19
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Ozer I, Slezak A, Sirohi P, Li X, Zakharov N, Yao Y, Everitt JI, Spasojevic I, Craig SL, Collier JH, Campbell JE, D'Alessio DA, Chilkoti A. An injectable PEG-like conjugate forms a subcutaneous depot and enables sustained delivery of a peptide drug. Biomaterials 2023; 294:121985. [PMID: 36630826 PMCID: PMC10918641 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2022.121985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Many biologics have a short plasma half-life, and their conjugation to polyethylene glycol (PEG) is commonly used to solve this problem. However, the improvement in the plasma half-life of PEGylated drugs' is at an asymptote because the development of branched PEG has only had a modest impact on pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. Here, we developed an injectable PEG-like conjugate that forms a subcutaneous depot for the sustained delivery of biologics. The PEG-like conjugate consists of poly[oligo(ethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate] (POEGMA) conjugated to exendin, a peptide drug used in the clinic to treat type 2 diabetes. The depot-forming exendin-POEGMA conjugate showed greater efficacy than a PEG conjugate of exendin as well as Bydureon, a clinically approved sustained-release formulation of exendin. The injectable depot-forming exendin-POEGMA conjugate did not elicit an immune response against the polymer, so that it remained effective and safe for long-term management of type 2 diabetes upon chronic administration. In contrast, the PEG conjugate induced an anti-PEG immune response, leading to early clearance and loss of efficacy upon repeat dosing. The exendin-POEGMA depot also showed superior long-term efficacy compared to Bydureon. Collectively, these results suggest that an injectable POEGMA conjugate of biologic drugs that forms a drug depot under the skin, providing favorable pharmacokinetic properties and sustained efficacy while remaining non-immunogenic, offers significant advantages over other commonly used drug delivery technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imran Ozer
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Anna Slezak
- Department of Chemistry, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Parul Sirohi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Xinghai Li
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Nikita Zakharov
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Yunxin Yao
- Department of Chemistry, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Jeffrey I Everitt
- Department of Pathology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Ivan Spasojevic
- Duke School of Medicine, Department of Medicine-Oncology, Durham, NC, USA; Duke Cancer Institute, PK/PD Core Laboratory, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | - Joel H Collier
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Jonathan E Campbell
- Duke Molecular Physiology Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA; Division of Endocrinology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - David A D'Alessio
- Duke Molecular Physiology Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA; Division of Endocrinology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Ashutosh Chilkoti
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA.
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20
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Holz E, Darwish M, Tesar DB, Shatz-Binder W. A Review of Protein- and Peptide-Based Chemical Conjugates: Past, Present, and Future. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:600. [PMID: 36839922 PMCID: PMC9959917 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15020600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 02/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the past few decades, the complexity of molecular entities being advanced for therapeutic purposes has continued to evolve. A main propellent fueling innovation is the perpetual mandate within the pharmaceutical industry to meet the needs of novel disease areas and/or delivery challenges. As new mechanisms of action are uncovered, and as our understanding of existing mechanisms grows, the properties that are required and/or leveraged to enable therapeutic development continue to expand. One rapidly evolving area of interest is that of chemically enhanced peptide and protein therapeutics. While a variety of conjugate molecules such as antibody-drug conjugates, peptide/protein-PEG conjugates, and protein conjugate vaccines are already well established, others, such as antibody-oligonucleotide conjugates and peptide/protein conjugates using non-PEG polymers, are newer to clinical development. This review will evaluate the current development landscape of protein-based chemical conjugates with special attention to considerations such as modulation of pharmacokinetics, safety/tolerability, and entry into difficult to access targets, as well as bioavailability. Furthermore, for the purpose of this review, the types of molecules discussed are divided into two categories: (1) therapeutics that are enhanced by protein or peptide bioconjugation, and (2) protein and peptide therapeutics that require chemical modifications. Overall, the breadth of novel peptide- or protein-based therapeutics moving through the pipeline each year supports a path forward for the pursuit of even more complex therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Holz
- Department of Pharmaceutical Development, Genentech, Inc., 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Martine Darwish
- Department of Protein Chemistry, Genentech, Inc., 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Devin B. Tesar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Development, Genentech, Inc., 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Whitney Shatz-Binder
- Department of Pharmaceutical Development, Genentech, Inc., 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
- Department of Protein Chemistry, Genentech, Inc., 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
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21
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Fujii S, Sakurai K. Zwitterionic Amino Acid Polymer-Grafted Core-Crosslinked Particle toward Tumor Delivery. Biomacromolecules 2022; 23:3968-3977. [PMID: 36018790 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.2c00803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Zwitterionic amino acid polymers (ZAPs) exhibit biocompatibility and recognition capability for amino acid transporters (AATs) overexpressed on cancer cells. They are potential cancer-targeting ligands in nanoparticle-based nanomedicines utilized in cancer chemotherapy. Here, a poly(glutamine methacrylate) (pGlnMA)-grafted core-crosslinked particle (pGlnMA-CCP) is prepared through the formation of nanoemulsions stabilized using amphiphilic block copolymers comprising pGlnMA as the hydrophilic block. The chain conformation of the grafted polymer and the particle structure of pGlnMA-CCP are precisely elucidated by dynamic light scattering, X-ray scattering, and transmission electron microscopy. pGlnMA-CCP demonstrates active cellular uptake and deep penetration behaviors for cancer cells and spheroids, respectively, via an AAT-mediated mechanism. The in vivo pharmacokinetics of pGlnMA-CCP is practically comparable to those of a CCP covered with poly(polyethylene glycol methacrylate) (pPEGMA), which inhibits protein adsorption and prolongs blood retention, implying that the biocompatible properties of pGlnMA are similar to those of pPEGMA. Furthermore, pGlnMA-CCP accumulates in cancer tissues at a higher level than that of pPEGMA systems. The results demonstrate that the properties of cancer targetability, tumor permeability, efficient tumor accumulation, and biocompatibility can be obtained by grafting pGlnMA onto nanoparticles, suggesting a high potential of pGlnMA as a ligand for cancer-targeting nanomedicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shota Fujii
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Kitakyushu, 1-1 Hibikino, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka 808-0135, Japan
| | - Kazuo Sakurai
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Kitakyushu, 1-1 Hibikino, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka 808-0135, Japan
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22
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Müllner M. Molecular polymer bottlebrushes in nanomedicine: therapeutic and diagnostic applications. Chem Commun (Camb) 2022; 58:5683-5716. [PMID: 35445672 DOI: 10.1039/d2cc01601j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Molecular polymer bottlebrushes are densely grafted, individual macromolecules with nanoscale proportions. The last decade has seen an increased focus on this material class, especially in nanomedicine and for biomedical applications. This Feature Article provides an overview of major developments in this area to highlight the many opportunities that these polymer architectures bring to nano-bio research. The article covers aspects of bottlebrush synthesis and summarises their use in drug and gene delivery, imaging, as theranostics and as prototype materials to correlate nanoparticle structure and composition to biological function and behaviour. Areas for future research in this area are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus Müllner
- Key Centre for Polymers and Colloids, School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia. .,The University of Sydney Nano Institute (Sydney Nano), Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
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23
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A Nanoparticle's Journey to the Tumor: Strategies to Overcome First-Pass Metabolism and Their Limitations. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14071741. [PMID: 35406513 PMCID: PMC8996837 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14071741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Traditional cancer therapeutics suffer from off-target toxicity, limiting their effective dose and preventing patients’ tumors from being sufficiently treated by chemotherapeutics alone. Nanomedicine is an emerging class of therapeutics in which a drug is packaged into a nanoparticle that promotes uptake of the drug at a tumor site, shielding it from uptake by peripheral organs and enabling the safe delivery of chemotherapeutics that have poor aqueous solubility, short plasma half-life, narrow therapeutic window, and toxic side effects. Despite the advantages of nanomedicines for cancer, there remains significant challenges to improve uptake at the tumor and prevent premature clearance from the body. In this review, we summarize the effects of first-pass metabolism on a nanoparticle’s journey to a tumor and outline future steps that we believe will improve the efficacy of cancer nanomedicines. Abstract Nanomedicines represent the cutting edge of today’s cancer therapeutics. Seminal research decades ago has begun to pay dividends in the clinic, allowing for the delivery of cancer drugs with enhanced systemic circulation while also minimizing off-target toxicity. Despite the advantages of delivering cancer drugs using nanoparticles, micelles, or other nanostructures, only a small fraction of the injected dose reaches the tumor, creating a narrow therapeutic window for an otherwise potent drug. First-pass metabolism of nanoparticles by the reticuloendothelial system (RES) has been identified as a major culprit for the depletion of nanoparticles in circulation before they reach the tumor site. To overcome this, new strategies, materials, and functionalization with stealth polymers have been developed to improve nanoparticle circulation and uptake at the tumor site. This review summarizes the strategies undertaken to evade RES uptake of nanomedicines and improve the passive and active targeting of nanoparticle drugs to solid tumors. We also outline the limitations of current strategies and the future directions we believe will be explored to yield significant benefits to patients and make nanomedicine a promising treatment modality for cancer.
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Ozer I, Pitoc GA, Layzer JM, Moreno A, Olson LB, Layzer KD, Hucknall AM, Sullenger BA, Chilkoti A. PEG-Like Brush Polymer Conjugate of RNA Aptamer That Shows Reversible Anticoagulant Activity and Minimal Immune Response. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2022; 34:e2107852. [PMID: 34994037 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202107852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Ribonucleic acid (RNA) therapeutics are an emerging class of drugs. RNA aptamers are of significant therapeutic and clinical interest because their activity can be easily reversed in vivo-a useful feature that is difficult to achieve using other therapeutic modalities. Despite their therapeutic promise, RNA aptamers are limited by their poor blood circulation. The attachment of polyethylene glycol (PEG) to RNA aptamers addresses this limitation. However, an RNA aptamer-PEG conjugate that is a reversible anticoagulant fails in a clinical trial due to the reactivity of the conjugate with pre-existing PEG antibodies and has cast a pall over PEGylation of aptamers and other biologics, despite its long history of utility in drug delivery. Here, PEG antibody-reactivity of this RNA aptamer is eliminated by conjugating it to a next-generation PEG-like brush polymer-poly[(oligoethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate)] (POEGMA). The conjugate retained the drug's therapeutic action and the ability to be easily reversed. Importantly, this conjugate does not bind pre-existing PEG antibodies that are prevalent in humans and does not induce a humoral immune response against the polymer itself in mice. These findings suggest a path to rescuing the PEGylation of RNA therapeutics and vaccines from the deleterious side-effects of PEG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imran Ozer
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, 27708, USA
| | - George A Pitoc
- Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, 27707, USA
| | - Juliana M Layzer
- Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, 27707, USA
- Duke Clinical and Translational Science Institute, Durham, NC, 27707, USA
| | - Angelo Moreno
- Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, 27707, USA
| | - Lyra B Olson
- Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, 27707, USA
| | - Kyle D Layzer
- Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, 27707, USA
| | - Angus M Hucknall
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, 27708, USA
| | - Bruce A Sullenger
- Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, 27707, USA
| | - Ashutosh Chilkoti
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, 27708, USA
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